Cruise Quest app screenshots
New
The Cruise Quest app is here.
Bar Bingo & Cruise Cameo · works offline!
// MENU
HomeCruise SearchShipsPortsBlog
Share
U.S.U.S. - Pacific, Northwest

Monterey Cruise Port

Monterey, California
Monterey, California is a beautiful coastal city located in the Central Coast region of California.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#6
of 37 ports in the U.S.
Today · high / low
98° / 51°
September normals
Monterey, California cruise port
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
Monterey, California
// Monterey cruise port overview

The cruise port in Monterey,
explained

Lat: 36.6°NLong: 121.9°WTimezone: America/Los_AngelesINTN code: MYCUS

Monterey, California is a beautiful coastal city located in the Central Coast region of California. It is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, its historic downtown area, and its abundance of outdoor activities.

Monterey is home to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. The city also boasts a variety of museums, galleries, and other cultural attractions.

Monterey is also known for its excellent restaurants, wineries, and breweries. The city is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking.

Monterey is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Monterey Jazz Festival and the Monterey Bay Blues Festival. With its stunning views, rich history, and abundance of activities, Monterey is a great place to visit and explore.

// Monterey Cruise Port location

Where is Monterey Cruise Port?

Monterey, California cruise port is located on the central coast of California, about 120 miles south of San Francisco. It is situated on the Monterey Bay, which is a large, deep inlet of the Pacific Ocean. The port is located in the city of Monterey, which is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and world-class restaurants. The port is also close to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Fisherman's Wharf.

General location
U.S.
Category
U.S. - Pacific, Northwest
Coordinates
36.61°N, 121.89°W
Time zone
America/Los_Angeles
Cruise port · 36.61°N, 121.89°W
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Monterey cruise port guide

What to do in Monterey

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must-do activity for cruise passengers visiting Monterey, California. The aquarium is home to a variety of sea life, including sharks, jellyfish, sea otters, and more. Cruise passengers can take a self-guided tour of the aquarium or join a guided tour to learn more about the creatures that inhabit the Monterey Bay. The aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.

Theme 2

Fishing

Fishing is another popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Monterey, California. The Monterey Bay is home to a variety of fish, including salmon, rockfish, halibut, and lingcod. Cruise passengers can rent a boat or join a fishing charter to try their luck at catching some of these fish. Fishing charters typically provide all the necessary equipment and bait, as well as experienced guides to help you find the best spots.

Theme 3

Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the most popular activities for cruise passengers visiting Monterey, California. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is home to a variety of marine life, including whales, dolphins, sea lions, and otters. Cruise passengers can take a boat tour to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. The tours typically last a few hours and provide an unforgettable experience.

Monterey cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
A
Asilomar Beach (illustrative photo)

Asilomar Beach

Asilomar Beach is a popular beach near Monterey, California. It is located just north of the city and is known for its rocky shoreline and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It is a great spot for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby for visitors to enjoy.

C
Carmel Beach (illustrative photo)

Carmel Beach

Carmel Beach is a popular beach near Monterey, California. It is located just south of the city and is known for its white sand and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby for visitors to enjoy.

L
Lovers Point Beach (illustrative photo)

Lovers Point Beach

Lovers Point Beach is a popular beach near Monterey, California. It is located just east of the city and is known for its sandy shoreline and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There are also plenty of restaurants and shops nearby for visitors to enjoy.

// Monterey fun facts

17-Mile Drive

The 17-Mile Drive is a scenic route that winds through the Monterey Peninsula. It is home to some of the most beautiful views in the area, including the Lone Cypress Tree, the Pebble Beach Golf Links, and the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. The drive is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and sea lions. It is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.

Cannery Row

Cannery Row is a historic district in Monterey, California. It was once home to a bustling sardine canning industry, and is now a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the area's many shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and sea lions.

Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in the area. It is home to over 35,000 animals and plants, including sea otters, sharks, jellyfish, and more. It is also home to the world's largest single-paned window, which allows visitors to get an up-close view of the ocean life. The aquarium also offers educational programs, interactive exhibits, and a variety of special events.

Monterey cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
C
Cannery Row Antique Mall (illustrative photo)

Cannery Row Antique Mall

Cannery Row Antique Mall is a great place to find unique souvenirs from Monterey. It has a wide selection of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles from the area. You can find everything from old postcards to vintage jewelry, and even some rare finds. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the prices are reasonable. It's a great place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir to take home with you.

M
Monterey Bay Aquarium Gift Shop (illustrative photo)

Monterey Bay Aquarium Gift Shop

The Monterey Bay Aquarium Gift Shop is a great place to find souvenirs from Monterey. It has a wide selection of items related to the aquarium, including books, toys, and clothing. You can also find jewelry, art, and other items related to the sea. The prices are reasonable, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. It's a great place to find a unique souvenir to take home with you.

O
Old Fisherman's Wharf (illustrative photo)

Old Fisherman's Wharf

Old Fisherman's Wharf is a great place to find souvenirs from Monterey. It's a bustling area with lots of shops and restaurants, and it's a great place to find unique items. You can find everything from t-shirts and hats to jewelry and art. There are also plenty of food stands and restaurants, so you can grab a bite to eat while you shop. The prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere is fun and lively.

// Monterey Cruise Port Terminals

Which Monterey cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Monterey
Pier 1 of 3

Monterey Bay Cruise Ship Terminal

2 Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey, CA 93940

The Monterey Bay Cruise Ship Terminal is located on Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, California. It is the second largest port of call for cruise ships visiting the Monterey Bay area. The terminal offers a variety of services, including ticketing, baggage handling, and passenger check-in. It also provides access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions in the area.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Monterey Bay Cruise Ship Terminal)
Pier 2 of 3

Monterey Cruise Ship Terminal

1 Old Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey, CA 93940

The Monterey Cruise Ship Terminal is located on Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey, California. It is the main port of call for cruise ships visiting the Monterey Bay area. The terminal offers a variety of services, including ticketing, baggage handling, and passenger check-in. It also provides access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions in the area.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Monterey Cruise Ship Terminal)
Pier 3 of 3

Monterey Harbor Cruise Ship Terminal

3 Del Monte Ave, Monterey, CA 93940

The Monterey Harbor Cruise Ship Terminal is located on Del Monte Avenue in Monterey, California. It is the third largest port of call for cruise ships visiting the Monterey Bay area. The terminal offers a variety of services, including ticketing, baggage handling, and passenger check-in. It also provides access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions in the area.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Monterey Harbor Cruise Ship Terminal)
Wi-Fi

The Monterey Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to all passengers. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes in the area that offer free wifi access, including Starbucks, Panera Bread, and The Fish Hopper.

Safety

Monterey, California cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the US Coast Guard and the Monterey Police Department. The port also has a security team that patrols the area and monitors the security cameras. Additionally, the port has a strict security policy in place that requires all passengers to show valid identification before boarding a cruise ship.

Port address

Monterey Cruise Terminal1 Old Fisherman's WharfMonterey, CA 93940

Monterey cruise port car rental
Enterprise Rent-A-CarHertzAvisBudgetAlamo

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Weather

Monterey Cruise Port Weather

U.S. - Pacific, Northwest·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Monterey
61°
Avg · °F
Hot, mostly dry
High
98°F
Low
51°F
Rain
0.2 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Monterey

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Monterey cruise ship schedule

Monterey Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Monterey today, Thursday, September 17, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

// Keep exploring

Popular ports in the U.S.

Other ports cruisers visit most in the U.S..

// Questions

Monterey cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Monterey.

Where is Monterey cruise port located?

Monterey, California cruise port is located in U.S.. Monterey, California cruise port is located on the central coast of California, about 120 miles south of San Francisco. It is situated on the Monterey Bay, which is a large, deep inlet of the Pacific Ocean. The port is located in the city of Monterey, which is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and world-class restaurants. The port is also close to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Fisherman's Wharf.

Is Monterey a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Monterey, California is a great cruise port. It is located on the beautiful Monterey Bay and offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors. Popular activities include whale watching, kayaking, and exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and galleries to explore.

How safe is Monterey cruise port for passengers?

Monterey cruise port has a safety score of 8.3 out of 10, ranking #6 of 37 ports in U.S.. Monterey, California cruise port is generally considered to be a safe port. The port is well-maintained and monitored by the US Coast Guard and the Monterey Police Department. The port also has a security team that patrols the area and monitors the security cameras. Additionally, the port has a strict security policy in place that requires all passengers to show valid identification before boarding a cruise ship.

What is the weather like at Monterey cruise port in September?

In September, Monterey cruise port has average high temperatures of 98°F (37°C) and average lows of 51°F (10°C).

How many excursions are available at Monterey cruise port?

There are currently 82 excursions and tours available at Monterey cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Monterey cruise port?

Monterey cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Exploring the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Fishing, Whale Watching. Monterey, California is known for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. From its rugged coastline to its rolling hills, Monterey offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and whale watching. The area is also home to a number of historical sites, museums, and art galleries. Visitors can explore the area's rich history and culture, or take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. Monterey is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and abundance of activities, Monterey is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and memorable experience.

Can I rent a car at Monterey cruise port?

1. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: Enterprise offers car rental services near the Monterey cruise port. They have a variety of vehicles available, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.2. Hertz: Hertz is another car rental option near the Monterey cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.3. Avis: Avis is another car rental option near the Monterey cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.4. Budget: Budget is another car rental option near the Monterey cruise port. They offer a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.5. Alamo: Alamo is another car rental option near the Monterey cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV options.

What is the WiFi situation at Monterey cruise port?

The Monterey Cruise Terminal offers free wifi access to all passengers. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes in the area that offer free wifi access, including Starbucks, Panera Bread, and The Fish Hopper.

Where is the cruise terminal at Monterey cruise port?

The address of the Monterey, California cruise port is:Monterey Cruise Terminal1 Old Fisherman's WharfMonterey, CA 93940

What is the Monterey Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Monterey today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Monterey on any past or future date.

Sign up or
Sign in

Save your cruise, track reviews for your cabin, set cruise price drop alerts, & more with an account.

No password needed · Sign-in code sent