August in Monterey: Car Week, Wine Tastings, and Coastal Escapes | GoCar Tours Monterey
Car Week may take center stage in August, but there’s plenty more to explore along the coast. Here’s how to plan the perfect Monterey trip this summer.
Why August Is the Perfect Time to Visit Monterey
August is one of the best months to visit Monterey. The weather is mild, the coastline is at its most scenic, and the city buzzes with high-profile events like Monterey Car Week and relaxed experiences like wine tasting in Carmel Valley.
Whether you’re here for the horsepower, the Pinot Noir, or the ocean air, Monterey offers a balanced mix of luxury, nature, and small-town charm. GoCar makes it easy to take it all in without rushing from place to place or sitting in traffic.
Monterey Car Week: What to Know
Monterey Car Week 2025 runs from August 9 to 18 and includes dozens of events across the region—from exclusive auctions and historic races to the world-famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. Expect crowds, higher prices, and limited parking around Pebble Beach, downtown Monterey, and Carmel.
This is where a GoCar tour becomes a secret advantage. You can enjoy a peaceful drive along the coast during the busiest days, taking in:
- Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
- Pacific Grove and scenic Ocean View Boulevard
- 17-Mile Drive access points (without the congestion)
GoCar lets you cruise past traffic, find parking easily, and explore at your own pace, even during the busiest week of the year.
Coastal Escapes for a Quieter Day
If Car Week isn’t your thing, or you’re looking for a break from the crowds, Monterey has plenty of quieter ways to spend a summer day.
Scenic Routes by GoCar:
- Cruise out to Pacific Grove, where you’ll spot tidepools, sea otters, and wildflowers along the rocky shoreline.
- Explore Lovers Point Park, perfect for a picnic or coffee break.
- Head toward Asilomar Beach to catch a quiet moment by the water.
These routes let you enjoy coastal beauty without the pressure of staying on a tour schedule. Stop where you want, linger longer, or take a detour if the view looks good.
Wine Tastings in Carmel Valley
August is also an ideal time for a laid-back afternoon of wine tasting. Wineries in nearby Carmel Valley and Carmel-by-the-Sea are in full swing, often with summer pours, live music, and outdoor seating. Some popular spots include:
Pair your GoCar tour with a stop at a tasting room or use it as a scenic lead-in to a full wine day.
Why GoCar Is the Best Way to Explore Monterey in August
August brings both excitement and high foot traffic to Monterey. Whether you’re here for Car Week or a coastal escape, a GoCar gives you:
- A self-guided GPS tour with built-in stories and directions
- The freedom to avoid crowds and detour to scenic stops
- An open-air vehicle perfect for mild summer weather
- Easy parking access in places that are tough for larger cars and buses
It’s an ideal way to experience Monterey like a local, with room to breathe.
Book your GoCar in Monterey today, and make your August trip one for the books!