Seaside Travel Guide

Seaside is a small city of roughly 33,000 residents on California's Monterey Peninsula, sitting directly north of Monterey and east of the bay shoreline. It occupies land that was once part of the former Fort Ord military installation, and that history still shapes much of the city's character — from its wide grid streets to the repurposed buildings now housing businesses and educational facilities.

The city is one of the more affordable communities on the Monterey Peninsula, which makes it a practical lodging and dining hub for travelers who want access to Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Pacific Grove without paying premium prices. California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) sits on the former fort grounds and has brought new energy to the area.

Seaside is not a conventional tourist destination with a historic downtown or major cultural anchors, but it offers genuine local character, access to outstanding outdoor recreation at Fort Ord National Monument, and an unpretentious atmosphere that contrasts with some of its more polished neighbors.

Visas

Seaside is in the United States. Entry requirements vary significantly by nationality. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and the official U.S. Customs and Border Protection website for current requirements before booking travel.

Weather

Seaside sits in the coastal fog belt of Central California. Summers are cool and often foggy in the mornings, with temperatures frequently in the 55–68°F (13–20°C) range. The fog typically burns off by midday in summer. Spring and fall tend to offer more consistent sunshine. Winter is mild but wetter, with the bulk of annual rainfall falling between November and March.

What to Pack

• Layers are essential year-round; even summer evenings are cool
• A windproof jacket for coastal walks
• Comfortable shoes if you plan to hike Fort Ord trails
• Sunscreen — UV exposure is strong even on overcast days

By Air

The nearest commercial airport is Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), located approximately 3–4 miles from central Seaside. It handles a limited number of domestic routes. San Jose International Airport (SJC) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) are larger alternatives roughly 75–90 miles north via US-101, offering significantly more flight options.

By Car

Seaside is accessed via Highway 1 and Highway 218. Most visitors driving from the San Francisco Bay Area take US-101 south to Highway 156 west, then connect to Highway 1. Driving from Los Angeles, Highway 1 north from San Luis Obispo offers a scenic route, though travel times are long.

By Bus

MST (Monterey-Salinas Transit) operates regional bus routes connecting Seaside with Monterey, Salinas, and other Peninsula communities. Verify current schedules and fares at the MST website before travel.

A car is the most practical way to get around Seaside and to reach nearby attractions on the Monterey Peninsula. The city's layout — largely a product of its military-base origins — is spread out and not particularly walkable between neighborhoods.

MST buses connect Seaside with Monterey and other peninsula towns, making car-free travel feasible if you're staying near transit corridors. Verify current routes and schedules locally.

Ride-share services operate in the area. Cycling is possible along some corridors, and the Monterey Peninsula Recreational Trail, which runs along the bay, is accessible from the Monterey waterfront a short distance away.

Fort Ord National Monument

The Bureau of Land Management oversees more than 14,000 acres of former military land now open to hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The trail network is extensive and ranges from easy walks to more demanding routes. The landscape is dry coastal scrub and oak woodland, quite different from the bay shoreline a few miles west. Check the BLM website for current conditions and any seasonal closures.

California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB)

The campus, built on Fort Ord land, is worth a walk for those interested in adaptive reuse architecture. Historic military buildings have been incorporated alongside new construction. The campus hosts public events and cultural programming — check their calendar.

Monterey Bay Access

While Seaside itself has limited direct beach access compared to neighboring cities, the Monterey Bay shoreline is a short drive or bike ride away. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and the Monterey State Beach system are all within easy reach.

Laguna Grande Regional Park

A city park featuring a lake, walking paths, and picnic areas. It's a quiet local green space suitable for a relaxed afternoon. Verify current access and amenities locally.

Seaside's dining scene is unpretentious and reflects the city's diverse community. Broadway Avenue is the primary commercial corridor and has a range of restaurants representing Filipino, Mexican, American, and other cuisines — a reflection of the city's multicultural population, much of it tied to generations of military families.

For seafood and upscale dining, most visitors head to Monterey's Cannery Row or Old Fisherman's Wharf, both a short drive away. Seaside itself is better known for casual, affordable local spots than destination restaurants.

Farmers markets and local grocery stores serve the residential community. Verify current hours and locations for any market or restaurant before visiting, as these can change.

Emergency Services

Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies anywhere in the United States.

Healthcare

Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula (CHOMP) in nearby Monterey is the primary regional hospital. Verify its current location and services on their official website.

Money

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available at local banks and grocery stores along Broadway Avenue.

Connectivity

Mobile coverage from major US carriers is generally good throughout Seaside. Most hotels and many cafés offer Wi-Fi.

Tipping

Standard US tipping conventions apply: 18–20% at sit-down restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and rounding up for taxi or ride-share trips is common.

Seaside is a working-class residential city and, like any community, has neighborhoods with varying characteristics. Broadway Avenue and commercial areas are generally active and straightforward for visitors. Exercise standard urban awareness, particularly at night in less-trafficked areas.

Fort Ord National Monument has specific safety considerations: some sections of the former military base contain unexploded ordnance (UXO). Stay on marked trails at all times and do not pick up or disturb any metal objects on the ground. The BLM posts clear signage and guidance at trailheads.

Coastal areas of the Monterey Peninsula carry rip current risks. Heed posted warnings at beaches and avoid swimming in unpatrolled areas.