Let’s Talk About the Weather

Ask a local who’s lived on The Peninsula all their life about our year-round weather, and you may get a response somewhat like this, “It’s pretty nice…. kind of foggy and rainy all winter, but nice…”. An important thing to remember while asking said local, is that they haven’t lived in Minnesota, land of ice and snow, Texas, where summer temperatures routinely reach the triple digits, or any of the states that get pummeled by hurricanes, tornados and fire whirls on a regular basis. Born and raised Peninsula residents live in a little slice of temperate-weather-heaven, and they may occasionally take it for granted, but you and I know better. Follow these tips to find your perfect visiting-season.

Our “Extremes”

Our lowest average temperature occurs from December-January, and is just above 51 degrees, with our warmest average, 71 degrees, in September. Every other month hovers in the mid-to-upper 60’s. Pretty much, pack a light jacket, and you’ll be comfortable any time of the year.

The Supposably Elusive Sunny Day

Visit during two of our cloudiest, mistiest, stormiest months, and you still have a 50% shot at getting a sunny day. That percentage leaps to the 90th percentile from May to October. Want to increase your odds? The blanket of fog that hovers over Pacific Grove often ends abruptly over David Avenue, creating a natural divide between P.G. and Monterey. Another way to make your own luck with our weather; plan to stay and play in:

Carmel: “The Sunbelt”

Carmel’s weather is exceptionally beautiful; cool, misty mornings juxtaposed with warm sunny afternoons make for extra easy trip-planning. Starting with a tasty drink and pastry from The Carmel Coffee House guarantees a good morning, and, as the fog lifts, you can make your way through town, popping into the assorted art galleries and boutiques that catch your eye. By the time you reach Carmel-By-The-Sea Beach, you’ll have the breeze at your back, the sun on your face, and the frigid/sweltering/fire-whirling weather back home will be a distant memory. Beach bonfires roar to life around dusk, defying the chilly night air and inspiring after-dark fun with new friends, or, you can turn in for the night and enjoy a glass of wine beside a cozy fireplace. Whatever your plans, be sure to rest up; there’s so much more to do tomorrow.