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Travelers encouraged to follow guidelines, enjoy responsibly
Monterey, Calif., – Monterey County Convention and Visitors Bureau (Monterey County CVB) is thrilled to announce that its awe-inspiring Central Coast destination will welcome the return of tourism on Friday, June 12. As each individual business prepares to ensure the highest safety protocols are in place, travelers are encouraged to check individual business websites for reservations and specific details.
“We look forward to being able to welcome visitors to explore the amazing outdoor recreation and epic scenery that Monterey County is known for,” said Rob O’Keefe, president and CEO at Monterey County CVB. “Our local businesses and travelers alike have been patiently waiting for this moment, and we’re excited to finally be able to kick-start our tourism economy safely and responsibly.”
As Monterey County welcomes tourism back, Monterey County CVB is committed to maintaining the health and wellbeing of travelers, residents and employees. The tourism organization in partnership with a County-wide task force of hospitality leaders is launching a new Responsibility Matters initiative that encourages everyone to abide by the safety guidelines recommended from local, state and national health authorities. The initiative promotes safe and responsible behavior by encouraging social distancing, facial coverings in public, staying at home if they feel ill and following other preventive guidelines. The Responsibility Matters initiative will be seen throughout the County and drive markets, as well as be prominently featured on SeeMonterey.com.
Know before you go
County Reopening Stage: Monterey County will enter Stage 3 of the State of California’s reopening roadmap beginning Friday, June 12. Leisure travelers will be permitted to enjoy hotels, family entertainment centers, restaurants, wineries, bars, zoos, museums, racetracks, campgrounds and outdoor recreation. Please note that individual businesses will open on their own schedule.
Lodging Update: Hotels in Monterey County are open for all travelers with health and safety protocols in place following the California Hotel and Lodging Association Clean + Safe guidelines. Carmel-by-the-Sea Innkeepers have an additional Clean + Safe Pledge found here. Campgrounds also will begin to open at this time.
Restaurant Update: Restaurants in Monterey County are open for dine-in, takeout or delivery services with safety protocols in place. Restaurants require guests to wear masks upon entering and while being seated. Additionally, Pacific Grove, Carmel-by-the-Sea and other areas have expanded outdoor seating experiences to accommodate more guests. Reservations are recommend, but not required at all locations.
Wineries/Breweries/Bars Update: All wineries, breweries and bars are open with safety protocols in place. Many tasting rooms require advance reservations, as well as for all guests to wear masks upon entering. Tasting hours will vary and be limited to accommodate guests safely. Visit Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association for additional details on wineries.
Attractions Update: While attractions including zoos, aquariums and museums are allowed to open, many Monterey County businesses will reopen on their own schedule. Please check individual websites for information. Monterey Bay Aquarium and the National Steinbeck Center remain closed at this time.
Parks Update: ManyMonterey County Park and State Park trails are open, but with social distancing and congregate spaces closed. Please check individual park websites for updates. For information on Big Sur, please visit here.
Beaches Update: Many Monterey County beaches are open with proper social distancing. Parking is limited.
Recreation Update: Outdoor recreation including biking, kayaking, scuba diving, surfing and more are open with social distancing and sanitation procedures in place. Golf courses have reopened with modified operations to follow proper safety and health requirements. Monterey and Moss Landing boating launch ramps are open for recreational boaters.
Shopping Update: Retail shops are open for walk-in customers with safety protocols in place. Visitors must wear a facial covering and practice social distancing.
Event Update: Many summer events in Monterey County have been canceled or postponed. Please visit here for event updates.
Monterey Regional Airport Update: Monterey Regional Airport is open with limited flight service. Visit here for more details.
For more information on what travelers can expect when visiting Monterey County and to plan a getaway, visit specific pages at SeeMonterey.com and refer to “Know Before You Go” updates.