Monterey County, California
Monterey County offers an impressive mix of rugged coastline, fertile farmland, and mountain scenery. Coastal communities such as Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur attract visitors with dramatic ocean views, while Monterey is famous for its world-class aquarium and historic Cannery Row.
Inland, the Salinas Valley is one of California’s major agricultural regions, producing large quantities of vegetables. The area was also a major inspiration for author John Steinbeck, whose novels often explored the people and landscapes of the Salinas Valley.
Monterey County has plenty of cultural and recreational attractions as well. The Monterey Jazz Festival draws music lovers from around the world, while Pebble Beach is renowned for its golf courses and spectacular coastal setting. From working farmland to luxury resorts, Monterey County has a remarkably diverse character.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Monterey County |
| County Seat | Salinas |
| Etymology | Named after the Spanish word “Monterey” and Monterey Bay |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Salinas, Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Seaside, Pacific Grove, Marina, King City, Greenfield, Gonzales |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Route 101, State Route 1, State Route 68, State Route 156 |
| FIPS Code | 06-053 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 3,281 square miles (Land: 3,281 sq mi, Water: 0 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Santa Cruz County (North), San Benito County (East), Fresno County (East), Kings County (East), San Luis Obispo County (South) |
| Time Zone | Pacific Standard Time (PST) |
| State | California |
| Population | Approximately 450,000 |
| Coordinates | 36.6002° N, 121.8947° W |
| Major Landmarks | Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Big Sur, Carmel Mission, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve |
PHYSICAL MAP
Monterey County Topographic Map
This topographic map highlights Monterey County’s rugged Big Sur coastline, fertile Salinas Valley, and steep Santa Lucia Mountains. The detailed contours reveal the county’s dramatic changes in elevation from the Pacific coast to the inland valleys.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Monterey County Satellite Map
This satellite map shows the coastal mountains plunging toward the Pacific in the Big Sur region. Agricultural fields across the Salinas Valley form a striking green corridor between the surrounding mountain ranges.
OUTLINE MAP
Monterey County Blank Map
This blank map outlines Monterey County’s elongated shape along California’s central coast. The western edge follows the distinctive Big Sur coastline, while the interior extends across the Salinas Valley and surrounding mountain terrain.
California County Maps
California County Map
Ever wonder how California’s 58 counties are organized? Our California county map lays them all out, from the Pacific Coast to the vast desert regions. Explore the map to find the counties you know—and perhaps discover a few you don’t.