Carmel weather by month
Understanding the climate of Carmel‑by‑the‑Sea, California, can help you plan your visits, choose the right gear, and enjoy the area whether you’re surfing, hiking, or simply strolling along the pier. Below you’ll find an in‑depth month‑by‑month breakdown, a handy table, FAQs, and useful resources.
Overview of Carmel’s Climate
Carmel enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate. Winters are cool and wet, while summers are dry and comfortable—thanks to the Pacific marine layer that keeps temperatures from soaring. Average rainfall patterns are consistent, and the city rarely experiences extremes that could make outdoor activities difficult.
Monthly Weather Breakdown
| Month | Avg High (°F / °C) | Avg Low (°F / °C) | Rainfall (mm / in) | Precipitation Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 53 °F / 12 °C | 41 °F / 5 °C | 94 mm / 3.7 in | 14 |
| February | 55 °F / 13 °C | 43 °F / 6 °C | 73 mm / 2.9 in | 11 |
| March | 58 °F / 14 °C | 46 °F / 8 °C | 51 mm / 2.0 in | 9 |
| April | 63 °F / 17 °C | 51 °F / 11 °C | 22 mm / 0.9 in | 4 |
| May | 68 °F / 20 °C | 57 °F / 14 °C | 10 mm / 0.4 in | 2 |
| June | 73 °F / 23 °C | 63 °F / 17 °C | 3 mm / 0.1 in | 0 |
| July | 76 °F / 24 °C | 68 °F / 20 °C | 0 mm / 0 in | 0 |
| August | 75 °F / 24 °C | 68 °F / 20 °C | 0 mm / 0 in | 0 |
| September | 71 °F / 22 °C | 63 °F / 17 °C | 1 mm / 0.04 in | 1 |
| October | 63 °F / 17 °C | 55 °F / 13 °C | 12 mm / 0.5 in | 3 |
| November | 55 °F / 13 °C | 47 °F / 8 °C | 47 mm / 1.9 in | 8 |
| December | 51 °F / 11 °C | 42 °F / 6 °C | 78 mm / 3.1 in | 12 |
All figures are averages based on NOAA and local weather stations. Seasonal variations may occur.
Highlights by Season
Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Temperature: Cool mornings; evenings drop below 40 °F.
- Rain: Frequent showers, especially in December and January.
- Activities: Ideal for cozy beach walks and enjoying the scenic harbor lit by street lights.
Spring (Mar–May)
- Temperature: Gradually warming; pleasant daylight.
- Rain: Declining rainfall; March still sees some wet days.
- Activities: Perfect for hiking in Point Lobos and spotting migrating whales.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
- Temperature: Mild; rarely exceeds 80 °F.
- Rain: Virtually none—dry season.
- Activities: Ideal for beaches, tide pools, and wine tours along the coast.
Fall (Sep–Nov)
- Temperature: Cooling down; comfortable evenings.
- Rain: Increasing in November; September remains dry.
- Activities: Autumn foliage, bird‑watching, and harvest festivals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best time to visit Carmel for outdoor activities?
Summer (June–August) offers the driest weather and warm temperatures for beach and hiking.
Will I need a jacket in the evenings?
Yes, especially from October through February—cooler nights warrant layering.
Is Carmel prone to fog?
Seasonal marine fog is common in spring and late summer mornings but clears quickly.
How much rain should I expect in January?
Average rainfall is about 3.7 inches; expect several wet days.
- Do temperatures swing drastically during the day?
Daily temperature ranges are moderate (~12–15 °F) due to the ocean’s moderating influence.
Resources
- Carmel‑by‑the‑Sea Official Tourism Site – https://www.carmel.co.uk
- Weather Channel – Carmel Forecast – https://weather.com/weather/tenday/l/CARMEL
- NOAA Climate Data for California – https://www.noaa.gov
- National Weather Service – Salinas, CA (Carmel Region) – https://www.weather.gov/san
- Surf Forecast – Carmel Coastlines – https://www.surf-forecast.com
Use these tools to stay updated, plan your itinerary, and enjoy all that Carmel has to offer, no matter the season.
