Monterey Bay Aquarium Visit
Explore the diverse marine life at the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.
Top hotels & flights
Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Seaside.
Top Hotels in Seaside
Top Flights to Seaside
Popular activities
Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Seaside.
Tours
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Discover stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife at Point Lobos.
Sunset Center Theater Performance
Enjoy a performance at the historic Sunset Center theater.
17-Mile Drive Scenic Tour
Take a scenic drive along the famous 17-Mile Drive with breathtaking views.
Pacific Grove Museums Visit
Explore various museums in Pacific Grove, rich with local history and art.
Shopping
Cannery Row Shopping
Shop and explore the historic Cannery Row filled with eclectic shops.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Boutique Shopping
Discover unique boutiques and art galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Outdoor
Marina State Beach Trail
Enjoy a hike along the beautiful beach trails of Marina State Beach.
Kayaking in Elkhorn Slough
Experience kayaking in the serene Elkhorn Slough, home to otters and seals.
Whale Watching in Monterey Bay
Join a whale watching tour to see the majestic whales in Monterey Bay.
Location videos
Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.
From travelers
Practical info
The essentials for planning your time in Seaside.
Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Seaside, California, United States is '34,000'.
Languages
English, English
Local guide
What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Seaside.
What people love
Seaside, California offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a great travel destination. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Seaside:
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Beautiful Beaches: Seaside is located on the Monterey Bay coastline, providing visitors with access to stunning beaches where they can relax, sunbathe, swim, and enjoy water activities like surfing and kayaking.
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Proximity to Monterey Bay Aquarium: Seaside is just a short drive away from the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, where visitors can explore fascinating marine exhibits and learn about ocean conservation.
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Outdoor Recreation: The area around Seaside offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. Nearby attractions like the Fort Ord National Monument provide scenic trails for exploration.
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Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail: This paved trail stretches for miles along the coast, offering beautiful views of the ocean and access to various attractions along the way, including Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey.
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Dining and Shopping: Seaside and the neighboring towns of Monterey and Carmel offer a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and shops where visitors can indulge in local cuisine and find unique souvenirs.
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Historic Attractions: Seaside has its own historic sites, such as the Seaside City Hall and the California State University, Monterey Bay campus, where visitors can learn about the region's heritage and culture.
Overall, traveling to Seaside, California offers a mix of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and proximity to popular attractions, making it a desirable destination for travelers seeking a coastal getaway.
What to know
Seaside, California is a beautiful coastal city with many attractions and amenities, but like any destination, it does have some cons to consider:
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High Cost of Living: Seaside, like many other cities in California, has a relatively high cost of living. Accommodation, dining, and other expenses may be higher compared to other locations.
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Traffic Congestion: Seaside is located near the popular tourist destination of Monterey, which can lead to traffic congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons.
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Cool Weather: The coastal location of Seaside means that the weather can be cooler and foggier compared to inland areas. Visitors should be prepared for potentially chilly and damp conditions, especially in the mornings and evenings.
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Limited Public Transportation: While Seaside is well-connected by major highways, the public transportation options within the city itself may be limited. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services may be necessary for getting around.
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Crowded Beaches: Seaside's beaches can get crowded during weekends and holidays, particularly during the summer months. Visitors looking for a quieter beach experience may need to explore less popular spots nearby.
Overall, while Seaside has many attractions and a picturesque setting, visitors should be aware of these potential drawbacks when planning their trip.