State Beach · California

Carmel River State Beach

Location: Monterey County, California
Nearest town: 1.6 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Type: State Beach

About Carmel River State Beach

A 1-mile stretch of protected shoreline sits where the Carmel River empties into the ocean, forming a lagoon that draws migratory birds. Within its 297 acres the park also takes in Mara Beach and Monastery Beach, the latter a spot favored by scuba divers, while sea kayakers use the beach too and can reach the adjoining Point Lobos reserves nearby. The land was set aside as a park in 1953.

Hours, fees, camping, reservations and closures are set by the park and change often. Check the official park site before you go.

Getting there

Carmel River State Beach is in Monterey County, California, 1.6 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. The Directions button takes you to the park's mapped location; the entrance may be elsewhere, so check the official site for the address to use.

State parks near Carmel River State Beach

Within 60 miles, closest first, straight-line. All 213 in California →

Towns near Carmel River State Beach

State parks near Pacific Grove, State parks near Salinas, State parks near Watsonville, State parks near Santa Cruz, State parks near Soledad, State parks near Hollister

Facts from Wikidata, checked September 25, 2026. Distances are straight-line.