Public Safety Agencies Urge Caution Ahead of Expected High Surf Along the Monterey Peninsula

Date: Friday, November 13, 2026
Location: Monterey County Coastal Communities and Beaches 

Public Safety Agencies Urge Caution Ahead of Expected High Surf Along the Monterey Peninsula

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ON BEHALF OF MONTEREY COUNTY- With high surf expected along the Monterey Peninsula this weekend, public safety agencies are urging residents and visitors to use caution, remain alert to changing ocean conditions, and avoid hazardous coastal areas.

The National Weather Service has issued a High Surf Warning Friday evening to Sunday morning due to a west/northwesterly swell which will result in dangerous surf conditions. Large breaking waves of 25 to 35 ft are expected with occasional sets of 40 to 50 ft waves. Large waves and powerful ocean conditions create dangerous situations, even for those familiar with the coastline. Waves can unexpectedly surge beyond the shoreline, sweep across rocks, and reach areas that may otherwise appear safe. It is strongly advised that the public stay clear of coastal cliffs, rocky shorelines, and oceanfront recreational trails where conditions may become hazardous.

High surf conditions pose serious and unpredictable risks that can result in life-threatening injuries or loss of life. First responders are prepared and available to assist with potential emergencies. However, during periods of dangerous surf, ocean conditions may prevent first responders from safely reaching or rescuing individuals in distress, making it critical that the public stay well back from the shoreline and avoid unnecessary risks. Your safety starts with your decisions.

The safest rescue is one that never needs to happen. Prevention and responsible decisions will be critical to keeping our communities and visitors safe throughout this weekend.

Public safety agencies remind the public to:

• Stay well back from the water, rocky shorelines, and exposed coastal areas.
• Do not climb or scale shoreline rocks.
• Stay off cliffs and recreational trails along the immediate coastline.
• Never turn your back on the ocean.
• Keep children and pets away from hazardous coastal areas.
• Respect posted warnings, closures, and instructions from emergency personnel.
• Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue. Call 911 if someone is in danger.

Beach Closures

The following beaches and coastal turnouts will be closed from Friday evening until Sunday morning, with a very likely extension through Tuesday:

• City of Monterey: San Carlos Beach and McAbee Beach
• City of Pacific Grove: Coastal Turnouts
• Pebble Beach: Beaches and Coastal Turnouts
• Carmel River State Beach
• Garrapata Beach
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
• Asilomar State Beach

Road Closures

The following roads will be closed Friday evening to Sunday morning:

• 17 Mile Drive (closed to visitors) and portions closed to residents

Highway 1 near Monastery Beach: Caltrans is closely monitoring conditions along Highway 1 near Monastery Beach and other vulnerable coastal locations. Due to the potential for large waves, ocean over wash, flooding, and debris to reach the roadway, Caltrans is prepared to implement temporary closures if conditions become hazardous to the traveling public.

For more information head to the County of Monterey’s website here: County of Monterey, CA | Home

Road information and updates can also be found on Caltrans Central Coast District 5 Social Media Platforms: X at @CaltransD5, Facebook at: Caltrans Central Coast (District 5) and Instagram at: Caltrans_D5.