Fort Ord Dunes State Park in Marina

Seaside, California

A tremendous amount of history makes this city on the Monterey Peninsula worthy of exploration. The former site of Fort Ord United States Army post is an up-and-coming destination complete with a revitalized downtown, 60+ family-owned eateries, Fort Ord National Monument and Bayonet & Black Horse golf courses, formerly only open to service members.

An easy entrance to Fort Ord National Monument beckons visitors to explore 86 miles of trails to hike, bike or horseback ride through oak woodlands and wildlife habitats. Please remember to visit responsibly by staying on designated trails at all times and leave no trace behind.

Seaside's easy ocean access makes it a favorite haven for people fond of outdoor pursuits, including kayaking, scuba diving and even hang gliding. You’ll likely run into students from California State University at Monterey Bay who are also taking advantage of the pristine stretches of coastal bliss. 

activities

Explore Seaside

Seaside makes the perfect home base for exploring all that Monterey County has to offer—complete with scenic beaches, standout eats, and easy access to the region’s top attractions.

Food lovers are in for a treat. Seaside’s dining scene is full of fresh flavors and local gems. Savor sanddabs at the cozy Googie Grill, indulge in wood-fired seafood at the chic Maligne Restaurant, or dig into the crowd-favorite Prosciutto Funghi pizza at Gusto Handcrafted Pizza & Pasta. And you can't mis Other Brother Brewery, featuring high-quality beer, guest chefs and community events.

For a dose of outdoor fun, tee off at Bayonet Golf Course or pack up some to-go bites, beach towels, and sunscreen for a day at Seaside State Beach. Whether you're lounging in the sun or catching waves, it’s the kind of coastal recharge that stays with you long after you’ve left. Seaside is a wonderful home base to explore everything Monterey County has to offer.