California Coast??
 

We are thinking of taking a trip in October to travel the monterrey peninsula, big sur and possibly napa. Is October a good time to travel there? I heard it is less touristy, but right before rainy season. We would be traveling from Chicago and was wondering where to fly into and what ideas anyone has??

Hi dcgc

October can be great or terrible. The earlier in October your chance for good weather is better. There is a great wealth of information already posted on this site. Do a search on Monterrey peninsula, Big Sur and Napa and do a little reading. I bet you will find answers your questions as well as to questions you never thought about asking. Develop an itinerary then ask for feedback on your plans. We are happy to help

Have Fun
GP

I'd come in September if you can, otherwise October is fine. You will probably see a little rain. More than likely you will have clear skies most of the time. The rainy season is roughly from October to May with most of the rain falling in December, January, and February.

October is definitely less touristy since it is past the summer season, so even if the weather is iffy, the trade off is probably worth it.

Just don't make reservations for "Monterrey" you'll end up in Mexico.

"Monterey" is in California, and it has only one "R" in it.

October should be lovely. Don't worry about rain that early, but bring a little rain gear, just in case.

If you fly into San Jose, CA you will be closer to Monterey and Big Sur by one hour. San Francisco is closer to Napa. I would just find a flight and price I liked and not worry about which airport.

BTW, we don't have much of a fall color display out here, but the grape vine leaves might be turning colors in October and that would be lovely to see.

Happy travels.

in doing a california coast trip i found flying into san jose works well.

Since you've noted that the Monterey Peninsula is your prime intent perhaps I could throw a couple of cents in also. We've been making this trip in late Sept/early October since around '84 and have to say that the weather people have really been wonderful to us.

We're from SE PA so the flight might be a little different but we fly from Philadelphia to Monterey (changing to a commuter at SF). Way less traffic leaving and returning to the Monterey airport. Car rentals are a snap, no need for shuttles, easy in and out.

Enjoy the trip, you'll love Big Sur and hopefully you'll have some time to visit some of the great parks for some hiking.

Good luck!
Ron