Travel Alerts for Monterey County

Travel Information

Flights: If you are flying to Monterey County and are concerned about your flight, please check with your airline directly to confirm its status.

Road Conditions

Road Closures:

• Highway 1 (long-term): There will be a full closure of the northbound and southbound Highway 1 between the turnout south of Vicente Creek and the turnout south of Lime Creek due to emergency repair work.

Access to Northern Big Sur:

Visitors can access hotels, restaurants and businesses in northern Big Sur. This portion of Highway 1, which was closed due to the Rocky Creek slip-out in Northern Big Sur, is now open and accessible. A 24/7 traffic light provides public access, with one-way alternating traffic in both northbound and southbound directions.

Access to Southern Big Sur:

Access to the southern part of Big Sur, including Treebones Resort and Gorda Springs Resort, is currently available via Highway 1, which comes north through San Luis Obispo County. As of Sunday, June 23, Highway 1 at Paul's Slide will reopen, meaning the southern turnaround point on Highway 1 is moving farther north. However, a 6.8-mile segment of Highway 1 remains closed due to ongoing repairs at Regent's Slide. Access from the northern part of Big Sur to southern Big Sur via Highway 1 is not open at this time.

For real-time updates and official resources, please follow Caltrans District 5 on Twitter (X) or visit the Regent’s Slide Removal page. Visit HOW 2 HWY 1 to plan the ultimate road trip adventure on Highway 1, no matter the current conditions or closures.

If you're visiting Monterey County and your plans are impacted by weather, use the See Monterey app to find alternative hotels, restaurants and activities. Before you go, please contact your hotel, restaurant or tour provider for more information and to confirm their hours of operation. Please be respectful, patient, and kind to all involved in your travels to Big Sur, as these hardworking teams are doing their best to ensure you have a great experience in their community.

Weather Conditions

Get the latest weather updates for Monterey County from the National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area/Monterey, CA. Access current conditions, forecasts and hazard alerts to plan your day with confidence. From coastal conditions to inland forecasts, stay informed and prepared with accurate, up-to-date information.

Parking

Old Coast Road off Highway 1 at Bixby Bridge is a No Parking Zone. A parking citation fee will be issued to those who park illegally.

Park Closures

Parts of the Los Padres National Forest are currently closed for storm damage repair. Violations are punishable by a fine of up to $10,000. Visit the U.S. Forest Service for more information on the closures.

Please refer to the websites of individual Monterey County, California State and National Parks for the latest updates and trail closures.

Safety Information

Beach & Ocean Safety

Monterey County’s coastline is stunning, but its powerful currents and cold-water conditions require caution. Follow these essential safety tips to stay safe in and around the water:

• Never swim alone.
• When in doubt, don’t go out!
• Choose lifeguard-protected beaches whenever possible.
• Follow all lifeguard instructions and posted warnings.
• If caught in a rip current, stay calm to conserve energy and maintain clear thinking. Do not fight the current. Swim parallel to the shoreline to exit the pull, then head toward shore.
• If you cannot swim out of the current, float or calmly tread water until you are able to move safely toward shore.
• If you still cannot reach land, face the beach, wave your arms, and call for help to get attention.
• If you see someone in distress, alert a lifeguard immediately. If none are available, have someone call 9-1-1, then throw a flotation item and provide clear instructions to help the person escape the current.
  • *In-water rescues should only be attempted by professionally trained personnel. Many drowning incidents occur when untrained individuals try to rescue someone caught in a rip current.

For more ocean safety information, visit the California State Parks website.

Wildfire Safety

Wildfires predominantly occur in remote, forested areas away from population centers. It is important to follow all laws regarding open fires, camp only in designated areas, dispose of cigarettes properly and put out all fires in designated areas. Travelers should also have an emergency plan and follow any evacuation orders.

RESOURCES

• Monterey County Department of Emergency Management: For active alerts in Monterey County
• West Coast Travel Facts: For real-time air quality readings, emergency resources and alternate itineraries for California
• Cal Fire and Incident Information: For fire status across California
• Caltrans: For road conditions

The Right Path to Responsible Travel

As our destination welcomes visitors, we ask that you follow the safety precautions in place. Please practice the following guidelines:

Local/Regional Resources

• Monterey County Health Department
• Monterey County Office of Emergency Services
• Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula – Monterey, CA
• Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System – Salinas, CA
• Mee Memorial Hospital – King City, CA
• City of Monterey
• California Governor's Office of Emergency Services

For additional questions, please reach out to [email protected]