Live Local: Winter Wonders in Monterey County
When winter settles over Monterey County, the coastal magic doesn’t fade—it transforms. From watching whales breach offshore to warming up with wine or a cozy drink, winters at Marina Station are full of moments to savor. Make this season one to remember in Monterey.
Watch the Whales Pass Through
Every winter, thousands of California gray whales make their remarkable journey along the Monterey coastline, migrating from December through April. You can experience this natural spectacle up close with Monterey Bay Boat Tours, or take the scenic route to Garrapata State Park and Whalers Knoll Lookout, where elevated vantage points offer sweeping ocean views. Don’t forget your binoculars!
Meet the Monarchs
From October through February, Monterey becomes a winter haven for thousands of monarch butterflies. At the Monarch Grove Sanctuary, you’ll find these delicate travelers clustered in eucalyptus trees, creating one of nature’s most enchanting displays. The sanctuary preserves their habitat while offering visitors a rare chance to witness this seasonal phenomenon.
Discover World-Class Birdwatching
Birders know Monterey County as a bucket-list destination, and for good reason. The Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Reserve draws hundreds of species to its protected wetlands, while Carmel River State Beach and Marina Dunes Open Space Preserve offer peaceful sanctuaries where shorebirds and migratory species thrive. Make sure to bring your field guide and settle in!
Explore the National Marine Sanctuary
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is one of the world’s premier destinations for marine wildlife viewing. Stop by the Visitor Center for interactive exhibits and films that bring the underwater world to life, perfect for all ages. While you can catch gray whales migrating south through the sanctuary, winter also brings special visitors—northern elephant seals and southern sea otter pups born during breeding season.
Warm up in Wine Country
When the coastal fog rolls in, there’s no better remedy than a glass of wine in Carmel Valley’s wine country. This charming region offers a rustic, laid-back atmosphere with stunning mountain views as your backdrop. Wander from tasting rooms with a self-guided tour at your own pace or treat yourself to a Wine Trolley Private Tour along Pacific Coast Highway—an unforgettable way to sample the valley’s finest.
Immerse Yourself in Art
The Monterey Museum of Art offers a welcome indoor escape with thought-provoking exhibits that celebrate our region’s creative spirit. This winter, explore collections like “Artistic Alliance in Monterey” to learn about the Japanese American experience in Monterey, or lose yourself in “Landscape ReEnvisioned,” where contemporary photography highlights environmental activism and natural beauty.
While winter is especially beautiful in Monterey Bay, what we love most is how every season comes to life here. Ready for more? Be sure to join the Marina Station interest list for news and updates. And don’t forget to follow on Instagram and Facebook to stay in the know.
Hero Photo Credit: Douglas Croft / Douglas Croft Images