Expand
Contents
- The climate of Monterey
- The best time to visit Monterey
- The worst time to visit Monterey
- Spring weather in Monterey
- Summer weather in Monterey
- Autumn weather in Monterey
- Winter weather in Monterey
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average sea temperature
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
The rugged mountainous coast of Big Sur in Monterey, California
The climate of Monterey
Monterey, positioned along the breathtaking stretches of California's coastline, falls within the Mediterranean, warm summer zone of the Köppen climate classification. Identified as Csb, this climate is characterized by mild winters and warm summers, tempered by the influences of Pacific sea breezes.
Offering a marine-moderated Mediterranean climate, Monterey experiences mild and notably stable temperatures throughout the year. High temperatures range from 57.2°F (14°C) in December to a peak of 72.5°F (22.5°C) between September. Correspondingly, the low temperatures vary between 46.4°F (8°C) in both January and December to 55.2°F (12.9°C) in August and September.
Rainfall in Monterey exhibits a clear seasonality with the majority occurring in the colder seasons. Dry summers are typical with rainfall inches registering a low of 0.08 in July and August. On the contrary, winter months are marked by higher rainfall, soaring to a significant 2.4" (61mm) in December. Additionally, annual variations in relative humidity are minimal, with an average of about 72% throughout the year. It, therefore, offers a generally muggy atmosphere.
While cloud cover is relatively constant, it is seen to dwindle from 32% in December to a slight dip at 9% in July. Also notable are wind speeds, which although mild on average, contribute to the perceived temperature conditions. Wind speeds stay fairly constant throughout the year, rising from 5.6mph (9km/h) in August to a relatively breezy 7.5mph (12.1km/h) in April and May.
Offering a marine-moderated Mediterranean climate, Monterey experiences mild and notably stable temperatures throughout the year. High temperatures range from 57.2°F (14°C) in December to a peak of 72.5°F (22.5°C) between September. Correspondingly, the low temperatures vary between 46.4°F (8°C) in both January and December to 55.2°F (12.9°C) in August and September.
Rainfall in Monterey exhibits a clear seasonality with the majority occurring in the colder seasons. Dry summers are typical with rainfall inches registering a low of 0.08 in July and August. On the contrary, winter months are marked by higher rainfall, soaring to a significant 2.4" (61mm) in December. Additionally, annual variations in relative humidity are minimal, with an average of about 72% throughout the year. It, therefore, offers a generally muggy atmosphere.
While cloud cover is relatively constant, it is seen to dwindle from 32% in December to a slight dip at 9% in July. Also notable are wind speeds, which although mild on average, contribute to the perceived temperature conditions. Wind speeds stay fairly constant throughout the year, rising from 5.6mph (9km/h) in August to a relatively breezy 7.5mph (12.1km/h) in April and May.
The best time to visit Monterey
For those seeking to enjoy Monterey at its warmest, the months spanning June to September are the most favourable. The mercury soars to its annual maximum of 72.5°F (22.5°C), presenting ideal conditions for outdoor activities and exploration. With relative humidity averaging around 72% to 75%, the environment remains comfortably muggy. An added advantage is the least rainfall experienced during these months, between 0.08" (2mm) to 0.12" (3mm), thus providing favourable circumstances for uninterrupted sightseeing.
The worst time to visit Monterey
The chillier months of the year from November to February may not be the ideal choice for those sensitive to lower temperatures. The high temperatures during these months hover at a cooler range from 57.2°F (14°C) to 59°F (15°C), and the lows dropping to the year-round nadir of 46.4°F (8°C) in the months of January and December. These months also record the maximum rainfall of the year, with December experiencing the highest downpour of approximately 2.4" (61mm).
Spring weather in Monterey
Spring, occurring between March and May, sees a marked increase in temperatures. The highs escalate from 59.5°F (15.3°C) to 68.4°F (20.2°C), while the lows gently rise from 46.4°F (8°C) to 52.3°F (11.3°C). The day length increases significantly from 12 hours to 14.1 hours, paving the way for the sunshine hours to reach a pleasant 10.9 hours by May. Further, spring registers a decline in rainfall with May marking the onset of the dry season with only 0.51" (13mm).
Summer weather in Monterey
The summer season from June to August showcases the best of Monterey's climate. The high temperatures peak at around 72°F (22.2°C), whereas the lows maintain a balmy 54.5°F (12.5°C) to 55.2°F (12.9°C) range. Humidity averages around 74% while the rainfall hits a minimum, recording just 0.08" (2mm) in both July and August. Long days boasting 14.6 hours of daylight in June and ample sunshine up to 12 hours, make summers in Monterey extremely indulgent and charming.
Autumn weather in Monterey
Autumn in Monterey presents a temperate climate with the high temperatures spanning from 72.5°F (22.5°C) in September to 62.8°F (17.1°C) in November. Demonstrating the transition into the cooler part of the year, the lows also display a steady decline from 55.2°F (12.9°C) to 49.8°F (9.9°C) over the same period. The sunshine hours decrease from 11.1 hours in September to a still considerable 6.8 hours in November. The level of rainfall starts to make its ascent during these months, settling at 1.3" (33mm) in November.
Winter weather in Monterey
Winter in Monterey, from December to February, showcases slightly cooler temperatures. The high temperatures hover around 57.2°F (14°C) to 59°F (15°C), with the lows marking the year-round nadir of 46.4°F (8°C). Daily sunshine hours drop to 6 hours but the daylight hours remain respectable at around 10 hours. Rainfall is at its highest during these months, registering at a significant 2.4" (61mm) in December, the year's rainiest month. Despite the chillier temperatures, Monterey's winter is mild and damp.
Weather in January
January in Monterey, California, greets residents and visitors alike with moderately cool temperatures. Highs typically hover around 59°F (15°C), the lower end of the city's annual temperature range, while rainfall peaks at 1.89" (48mm) over 9.3 days. Weather in January »
Weather in February
Just as January, February continues Monterey's season of significant rainfall, amounting to 1.85" (47mm), albeit spread over fewer days - 9.1. February's average high temperature creeps up slightly, hitting 58.1°F (14.5°C), yet low temperatures remain steady, leading to cool nights. Weather in February »
Weather in March
March in Monterey sees a transition as the winter season gives way to spring. Rainfall increases to the highest point of the year at 2.13" (54mm), falling over 12.5 days, the most amongst all months. However, the long, pleasant days, with 12 hours of daylight, bring a sense of spring into the air. Weather in March »
Weather in April
As Monterey moves further into spring, April brings a welcomed respite from heavy rainfall with precipitation totals decreasing to 0.83" (21mm). Daylight hours continue to stretch reaching 13.2 hours, indicating longer days and short nights. Weather in April »
Weather in May
May is distinctly drier in Monterey, marking a significant decrease in rainfall to 0.51" (13mm), a quarter of March's peak. Monterey begins to soak up more sunshine during this month, with 14.1 hours of daylight - the longest duration of the year. Weather in May »
Weather in June
Warm and dry would best describe June in Monterey. The summer solstice brings the peak of daylight with 14.6 hours, the highest of the year. The rainfall diminishes substantially to a mere 0.12" (3mm) on an average of 2.5 rainy days, making it the driest month. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July is characterized by its warm weather and scarce rainfall in Monterey. Rainfall declines even further to just 0.08" (2mm) over 2.4 days, matching August as the driest month of the year. The average high climbs slightly higher than in June, reaching 71.2°F (21.8°C) and making the days warm and pleasing. Weather in July »
Weather in August
Monterey's August weather prolongs the warmth and sunshine. August ties with July for the driest month at a meager 0.08" (2mm) of rainfall over a day, underlining the absence of substantial precipitation. Temperatures peak once again at around 72.1°F (22.3°C), maintaining the summer heat. Weather in August »
Weather in September
Shifting into September, Monterey is graced with the year's highest temperature, peaking at 72.5°F (22.5°C). Meanwhile, rainfall maintains its consistency from August, with only 0.12" (3mm). However, daylight hours begin to shrink noticeably to 12.4 hours, signifying the onset of Fall. Weather in September »
Weather in October
As Monterey transitions more into the autumn season, October ushers in a cooler atmosphere. Though the daylight continues to reduce to 11.2 hours, the city resumes its rainfall with an appreciable 0.47" (12mm) spread over 4.5 days. Weather in October »
Weather in November
November brings the advent of Monterey's wet season, as rainfall levels rise substantially to 1.3" (33mm) across 7.1 days. The trend of shorter days persists, with daylight hours reducing to 10.2. Wind speeds pick up slightly to 6mph (9.7km/h), suggesting the arrival of cooler, wetter conditions. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December in Monterey brings the deepest phase of the wet season and the coolest temperatures. The city witnesses the year's second-highest amount of rainfall of 2.4" (61mm) over 9.9 days. The temperature peaks at a seasonably cold 57.2°F (14°C), the lowest highs in the year. Weather in December »
Updated: Feb 9, 2024
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather U.S. | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How much does it rain in Monterey?
In Monterey, during the entire year, the rain falls for 73.6 days and collects up to 11.77" (299mm) of precipitation.
What are the most humid months in Monterey?
March and May, with an average relative humidity of 76%, are most humid months in Monterey.
When is Daylight Saving Time (DST) in Monterey?
On Sunday, March 10. 2024, at 2:00 am, Daylight Saving Time starts, and the time zone changes from PST to PDT. Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, November 3. 2024, at 2:00 am, and the time zone reverts from PDT to PST.
What is the month with the coldest ocean in Monterey?
With an average ocean temperature of 53.8°F (12.1°C), April is the month with the coldest seawater in Monterey, California.
When are the longest days in Monterey?
June has the longest days of the year, with an average of 14h and 36min of daylight.
When is the highest UV index in Monterey?
The months with the highest UV index in Monterey are June through September, with an average maximum UV index of 5.
What is the driest month in Monterey?
The months with the least rainfall in Monterey are July and August Rain falls for 2.4 days and accumulates 0.08" (2mm) of rain.
What month has the most sunshine in Monterey?
With an average of 12h of sunshine, July has the most sunshine of the year in Monterey.
When is the ocean warmest in Monterey?
August and September, with an average ocean temperature of 58.1°F (14.5°C), are months with the warmest seawater in Monterey.
What time of the year is the hottest in Monterey?
The highest temperatures in Monterey are recorded in September, with averages reaching a high of 72.5°F (22.5°C) and a low of 55.2°F (12.9°C).
What is the least humid month in Monterey?
The least humid month is November, with an average relative humidity of 68%.
What time of the year is the coldest in Monterey?
In Monterey, California, the average lowest temperatures are observed in December, with a high of 57.2°F (14°C) and a low of 46.4°F (8°C).
What is the wettest month in Monterey?
December is the month with the most rainfall. Rain falls for 9.9 days and accumulates 2.4" (61mm) of precipitation.
What is the month with the shortest days in Monterey?
December has the shortest days of the year in Monterey, with an average of 9h and 42min of daylight.
What is the month with the least sunshine in Monterey?
With an average of 6h of sunshine, December has the least sunshine of the year in Monterey.
When is the lowest UV index in Monterey?
With an average maximum UV index of 3, December is the month with the lowest UV index in Monterey, California.
Average temperature
Monterey, CA
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is September (72.5°F).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is December (57.2°F).
The months with the highest average low temperature are August and September (55.2°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is February (46°F).
Average pressure
Monterey, CA
- Average pressure in January:
30.13"Hg - Average pressure in February:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in March:
30.08"Hg - Average pressure in April:
30.04"Hg - Average pressure in May:
29.99"Hg - Average pressure in June:
29.93"Hg
- Average pressure in July:
29.94"Hg - Average pressure in August:
29.93"Hg - Average pressure in September:
29.92"Hg - Average pressure in October:
29.98"Hg - Average pressure in November:
30.07"Hg - Average pressure in December:
30.11"Hg
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is January (30.13"Hg).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is September (29.92"Hg).
Average wind speed
Monterey, CA
- Average wind speed in January:
6.2mph - Average wind speed in February:
7.3mph - Average wind speed in March:
7.2mph - Average wind speed in April:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in May:
7.5mph - Average wind speed in June:
7mph
- Average wind speed in July:
5.9mph - Average wind speed in August:
5.6mph - Average wind speed in September:
5.7mph - Average wind speed in October:
5.8mph - Average wind speed in November:
6mph - Average wind speed in December:
6.4mph
The windiest months (with the highest average wind speed) are April and May (7.5mph).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is August (5.6mph).
Average humidity
Monterey, CA
The months with the highest relative humidity are March and May (76%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is November (68%).
Average rainfall
Monterey, CA
- Average rainfall in January:
1.89" - Average rainfall in February:
1.85" - Average rainfall in March:
2.13" - Average rainfall in April:
0.83" - Average rainfall in May:
0.51" - Average rainfall in June:
0.12"
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is December (2.4").
The driest months (with the least rainfall) are July and August (0.08").
Average rainfall days
Monterey, CA
- Average rainfall days in January:
9.3 days - Average rainfall days in February:
9.1 days - Average rainfall days in March:
12.5 days - Average rainfall days in April:
8 days - Average rainfall days in May:
4.8 days - Average rainfall days in June:
2.5 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
2.4 days - Average rainfall days in August:
1.1 days - Average rainfall days in September:
2.4 days - Average rainfall days in October:
4.5 days - Average rainfall days in November:
7.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
9.9 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is March (12.5 days).
The month with the least rainy days is August (1.1 days).
Average sea temperature
Monterey, CA
The best months for swimming (with the highest average sea temperature) are August and September (58.1°F).
The coldest month (with the lowest average sea temperature) is April (53.8°F).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Monterey, CA
- Average daylight in January:
10h and 0min - Average daylight in February:
10h and 5min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 0min - Average daylight in April:
13h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
14h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
14h and 4min
- Average daylight in July:
14h and 2min - Average daylight in August:
13h and 3min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 2min - Average daylight in October:
11h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
10h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
9h and 4min
The month with the longest days is June (Average daylight: 14h and 36min).
The month with the shortest days is December (Average daylight: 9h and 42min).
- Average sunshine in January:
6h and 2min - Average sunshine in February:
6h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
8h and 1min - Average sunshine in April:
10h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
10h and 5min - Average sunshine in June:
11h and 5min
- Average sunshine in July:
12h - Average sunshine in August:
11h and 5min - Average sunshine in September:
11h and 1min - Average sunshine in October:
7h and 1min - Average sunshine in November:
6h and 5min - Average sunshine in December:
6h
The month with the most sunshine is July (Average sunshine: 12h).
The month with the least sunshine is December (Average sunshine: 6h).
Average sunshine days
Monterey, CA
- Average sunshine days in January:
20.3 days - Average sunshine days in February:
17.7 days - Average sunshine days in March:
16.8 days - Average sunshine days in April:
20.3 days - Average sunshine days in May:
23.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
25.7 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
27.3 days - Average sunshine days in August:
27.2 days - Average sunshine days in September:
25.9 days - Average sunshine days in October:
25.4 days - Average sunshine days in November:
22.4 days - Average sunshine days in December:
20 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (27.3 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is March (16.8 days).
Average UV index
Monterey, CA
The months with the highest UV index are June, July, August and September (UV index 5).
The month with the lowest UV index is December (UV index 3).
Average cloud cover
Monterey, CA
The month with the most cloud cover is March (Cloud cover 34).
The month with the least cloud cover is July (Cloud cover 9).
Average visibility
Monterey, CA
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
The months with the lowest visibility are January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November and December (6mi).
Monterey, California, USA
Weather forecast for your location
1. Click Locate me button
2. Allow the app to use your location
2. Allow the app to use your location