Before I moved here, I had no idea I moved to a place with much less of that famed, sunny California weather I heard so much about. Instead, Monterey County delivers a crash course on microclimates.
Understanding the basics of microclimates will help you enjoy your time in Monterey County, from the stunning coast to the fertile inland.
What is a Microclimate?
A microclimate is the specific temperature, precipitation and other environmental patterns of a small region.
For example, my first job in Monterey County took me across the vast county on a regular basis. It was not uncommon for me to need to dress for at least two completely different experiences: cool and damp on the coast and hot and windy further inland—within only an hour of each other!
Why Do Microclimates Matter for Me?
The vastness and diversity of Monterey County are part of what makes it such a mesmerizing place that lures people back again and again. In one day, you can begin with a quiet, casual wine tasting at a verdant ranch at the base of the Santa Lucia mountains and end with a chilly and romantic al fresco dinner next to the ocean.
However, it’s important to have a basic understanding of Monterey County’s microclimates to have the most pleasant visit. Many, many people get caught in the chilly mist of Monterey Bay or don’t realize how windy the Salinas Valley gets in the afternoons.
Review the basics below to get an idea of how to pack and prepare for a trip to dynamic Monterey County.
Monterey County Microclimates
Coastal Communities (Marina, Seaside, Sand City, Del Rey Oaks, Monterey, Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur)
Often described as a Mediterranean climate, these coastal communities lie between a marine ecosystem and a semi-arid region further inland.
Expect rainy winters and dry summers, with a marine layer rolling in each night and usually dissolving each day by late morning. The marine layer will make it feel noticeably cooler and cloudier.
Inland Communities (Soledad, Gonzales, Salinas, Carmel Valley, Greenfield, King City, Cachagua)
Only a few miles away from the Pacific Ocean lies a much different climate. These inland communities also experience wetter winters and drier summers, but day-to-day, these communities will be several degrees warmer than those on the coast.
Because of the shape of the Salinas Valley, wind gets funneled from the ocean along Highway 101. This geographic feature nurtures Valley’s bountiful vineyards and agricultural fields, but it also makes it predictably windy each afternoon. Be prepared!
Conclusion: Monterey County Microclimates
Take a moment to understand the unique weather you may experience before visiting the various locations around Monterey County and you’ll have a much more enjoyable visit! Unless you want to spend $60 for a “MONTEREY” sweatshirt on Cannery Row—which is your right.
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