California, United States of America

The Crater Beach

Crater Beach is located in Sand City, USA, and is a notable attraction in an area known for clothing-optional activities. The beach features a large depression in the dunes, referred to as The Crater, which is ideal for activities such as climbing, jumping, and sliding.

Visitors can access The Crater by parking at the north end of the Sand City Shopping Center parking lot and walking along California Avenue to a gate adjacent to the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail. Although private property signs are present, many visitors disregard them and climb over the gate. To avoid trespassing, visitors can refrain from walking down the paved road beyond The Crater or walk north on the beach from Sand City Beach.

Discover places to stay near Crater Beach and enjoy the unique experience of The Crater's sandy dunes and clothing-optional activities.

The adjacent beach is expansive, sandy, and secluded, providing an ideal location for a tranquil day in the sun. Furthermore, dogs are permitted on the beach, making it a great spot for a day out with furry companions.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the pretty and enjoyable bike ride along the beach and the opportunity to pick up sea glass as the best features of the beach. However, visitors complain about limited parking, abandoned debris, and appalling conditions.

Where to Stay near The Crater Beach?

Visitors to Crater Beach in Sand City often stay in nearby Monterey, which offers a range of accommodations and is known for its scenic beauty and historic attractions. Many also stay in Pacific Grove, a charming town with easy access to the beach, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is The Crater Beach?

Latitude: 36.6187427 / Longitude: -121.8507439

The Crater Beach is located in California. The following map of The Crater Beach shows the exact location.

The Crater Beach: Weather Today

📅 Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Today at The Crater Beach is likely not ideal for swimming. The air temperature will reach a high of 18.2 °C. The sea temperature is 16.4 °C, and the waves are high. Expect some clouds in the sky, but the sun will make an appearance. The wind will be light. There is a very slight chance of rain.
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Air

Low / High9.8°C/18.2°C
Feels Like (High)17.2°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature16.4 °C
Wave Height1.8 m
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Rain

Rain Chance7%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset07:15/18:30
Sunshine Hours9.9 hrs
UV Index5.25
Cloud Cover20%
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Wind

Speed12.4 km/h
Gusts14.8 km/h
DirectionSW

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