Gay Monterey

Monterey lies three hours south of San Francisco, and is the most well trafficked town in Monterey County primarily due to the world-respected Monterey Bay Aquarium. The town itself is nestled right on the Bay, with views of the water accentuated by seals and sea otters swimming gleefully in the waters amongst the boats.

Monterey County is world-famous for its portion of the winding Pacific Coast Highway, as well as for the elegance of Pebble Beach along 17-Mile Drive and the jagged views, waterfalls, and backcountry hikes around Big Sur.

Given Monterey’s location in the center of it all, it makes a convenient base for travelers looking to avoid changing accommodations daily. From Monterey, it is only a short drive to multiple state parks, to the artist enclave of Carmel, or along the PCH to Big Sur and beyond.

Monterey Gay Scene

In Monterey, you are far more likely to find an actual otter frolicking in the waters of the bay than one prowling the streets of downtown. While there are no longer any specific gay bars or clubs, that does not mean a gay scene does not exist in Monterey. The gay scene is whatever you make it: art, culture, outdoors, food. It’s all there – the hardest part is choosing what to do!

Monterey's only gay bar closed down in the 1990s after decades of being open, but today the Monterey Peninsual Pride organization hosts regular events throughout the year, as well as an annual Monterey Peninsula pride festival in June.

When to Visit

Monterey has typically coastal California weather, which means a sweater is an essential item as the evening settles in. The dry season lasts from May through September, with average temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees, making it an ideal time to visit for those seeking less rain and more warmth. Inland from Monterey, such as the county seat of Salinas, the temperatures can increase by 20 degrees so if you are cold just go inland!

Monterey Gay-Friendly Activities & Attractions

Start your visit in Monterey by walking through downtown to Cannery Row, which John Steinbeck immortalized in his book of the same name. The Row has now been tourist-ified, but with the recent opening of an InterContinental’s right on the Row has ushered in a new upscale era. Sip your way through the vast Central Coast selection at Scheid Vineyards Tasting Room, and then visit the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The nonprofit Monterey Bay Aquarium was the first aquarium in the world to house and display a great white shark, and continues many different conservation efforts to this day. Most of its exhibits specifically highlight the local habitats and fish living in and near Monterey Bay.

Beyond Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea’s dozens of galleries make a fantastic pilgrimage for art lovers. Point Lobos State Reserve packs a sunset punch. Big Sur, with redwood groves and cliffs plunging into the ocean, has been inspiring visitors for centuries. Salinas is the Salad Bowl of America and has some tasty farm tours.

Monterey Gay-Friendly Dining

Fine dining is the norm in Monterey, and you'll also discover great seafood with local catches available.

Hula's Island Grill

This Tiki-style restaurant (with multiple locations in California) has a cool and colorful atmosphere making it a fun place to grab a tasty bite. Their specialities include tiki and tropical cocktails, and a variety of seafood dishes. The restaurant has been supportive of the LGBTQ community and the local pride organization as well.

Old Monterey Cafe

This family owned and operated diner is an institution in Monterey. Open for decades, you can expect delicious and hearty breakfasts daily, or come for lunch with a great selection of burgers, hot & cold sandwiches, and fried seafood dishes. 

Whaling Station Steakhouse

For a taste of fine dining, the Whaling Station Steakhouse is located just above Steinbeck's famous Cannery Row and serves the city's best steaks. In true steak house fashion, you choose your meat from a silver platter before grilling, and an award-winning wine list make it a great option for a long, romantic dinner with great dinnertime views. 

Monterey Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife

While there is not any specific gay or lesbian bar, there is still a thriving local LGBTQ community. Most of the LGBTQ-specific events take place monthly or seasonally. Check with the Monterey Peninsual Pride organization for any events happening while you might be visiting. Saying that, though, there are still plenty of great bars and nightlife options in Monterey which are welcoming and friendly.

Crush Nights

This is a top 40 dance party for the city's LGBTQ community. You can expect a night of drag and debauchery. The event takes place irregularly and at a rotating roster of locations, so check their social media for the latest information.

The Crown and Anchor

For a laid-back atmosphere, visit the Crown and Anchor—a nautically themed pub with a large selection of regional and international beers on tap. An outdoor patio and small menu of British pub food make it a casual spot all afternoon and evening.

Safety

It's quite safe and comfortable to experience the brilliant beauty of Monterey County with a partner. 

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