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Carmel · Monterey · Carmel · Big Sur

Monastery Beach

Coast · Beach · Cliffs · Cypress

A steep golden-sand beach just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, framed by cypress-covered hills and dramatic surf. Locals call it 'Mortuary Beach' for its powerful rip currents — admire the water, don't swim it.

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From the photographer
Chris Schmauch
by Chris Schmauch, owner of GoodEye Photography

A steep golden-sand beach just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, framed by cypress-covered hills and dramatic surf.

A steep golden-sand beach just south of Carmel-by-the-Sea, framed by cypress-covered hills and dramatic surf. Locals call it 'Mortuary Beach' for its powerful rip currents — admire the water, don't swim it. Quieter than Carmel Beach proper, with the same dramatic Point Lobos backdrop to the south.

What to expect

The lay of the land

Footwear
Sand-friendly shoes or barefoot work best. Heels sink; long bridal trains pick up sand. Flats are great for the walk down and back.
Best Time of Day
Golden hour, about 45 minutes before sunset. The light drops low and warm, which is what flatters skin and water alike. Midday and overcast sessions still work — softer light, less depth.
Best Season
Year-round. Winter and spring produce the cleanest light; summer marine layer adds atmosphere rather than killing sessions.
Weather
Coastal fog can linger from June through August but softens midday light rather than ruining it. Light rain, mist, and wind don't stop us.
Privacy
Public access — expect other people around. Long open stretches let us settle apart from foot traffic; weekday or off-peak sessions are noticeably quieter.
Drive times

Getting here

Carmel-by-the-Sea10 min
Monterey15 min
Big Sur35 min
San Jose1 hr 15 min
San Francisco2 hr
Approximate, off-peak driving.
Worth knowing

A few things about Monastery Beach

  • Paid or free lot adjacent to the sand; can fill up on weekends.

  • Dog-friendly in most areas; leash rules vary by season.

  • West-facing — the hour before sunset through blue hour is the window, especially clear winter evenings.

  • Exposed — wind picks up in the afternoon. Bring layers + a hair-tie if it's a coast cliff.