District Blog

2025 calendars have arrived at Lighthouse Books! There are a wide variety of titles to choose from - 200 different calendars - but quantities are limited to 1 or 2 of each, so be sure to visit us soon at 600 Lighthouse Ave in Monterey. We're open daily, 11am-6pm.

The New Monterey Business Association congratulates the 12 Lighthouse District businesses and organizations that won Monterey County Weekly's Best of Monterey County 2024. Click the links to read what the Weekly’s writers and editors had to say about each business.

Bulldog Sports Pub
Best Bar for Darts

Crystal Fish
Best Japanese / Sushi

First Awakenings
Best Breakfast

Gianni's Pizza
Best Pizza Place

Goodwill Central Coast
Best Thrift Shop

Hula's Island Grill
Best Happy Hour, Specialty Cocktails
Best Restaurant for Gluten-Free

International Market and Deli
Best International Market

Monterey Bay Aquarium
Best Local Nonprofit, Local Website, Place to Take Visitors

On The Beach Surf Shop
Best Surf Shop

Pearl Hour / Katie Blandin
Best Late-Night Hangout / Best Bartender...Read More

Fall flavors have returned to Sunrise Cafe! Embrace the season with our beloved Pumpkin Pancakes and Pumpkin Cinnamon French Toast. These fall favorites are here to warm your mornings and satisfy your cravings.

Join us at Sunrise Cafe, 204 Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey, and taste the cozy comfort of fall on your plate.

A message from the City of Monterey:

San Carlos Beach on Cannery Row in Monterey reopened on October 4, 2024, after being closed since August 19 due to an influx of sea lions that crowded the beach during their annual migration to Monterey from the Channel Islands.

This year, the sea lions made their main landing spot at San Carlos Beach. Hundreds of (mostly male) sea lions are here taking advantage of the abundant food that is close to shore within the Monterey Bay.

The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary staff have been a vital partner in helping the City understand the sea lions’ behavior and helped with City’s decision to close the beach to ensure public safety and the safety of the sea lion population.

Marine mammal experts expect the sea lions to return to the Channel Islands at some point soon. Although unlikely, if the sea lions repopulate San Carlos Beach, the City of Monterey may have to close the beach again.

- October 4, 2024

A reminder: Marine mammals, including sea lions, are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. People who harass, feed, capture, or kill any marine mammal could face a hefty fine or even jail time.

La Bahia Restaurant at 675 Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey now offers both in-person and drop-off catering! Call us at 831-884-5269 for a quote. We have a variety of packages available.

In-Person Catering

With in-person catering, our staff comes to you, grilling everything up fresh onsite.

Choose from the Bahia Package (street and quesabirria tacos - carne asada, chicken, al pastor, birria), the Deluxe Package (jeezy shrimp and quesabirria tacos), the Birria Package (quesabirria tacos), or the Carbon Package (street and quesabirria tacos - carne asada, chicken, birria).

Drop-Off Catering

With drop-off catering, all you have to do is place your order and we'll drop off the prepared ingredients at your venue of choice where your guests can assemble their own plates.

Choose from a Taco Bar (carne asada, chicken, al pastor), a Flautas Bar (chicken or beef), a Sopes Bar (carne asada, al pastor, or chicken), a Fajita Bar (chicken or steak), or Burrito Bowls (carne asada, al pastor, or chicken).

Epicenter Cycling is having our biggest bike sale in 15 years! Visit our Monterey store at 230 Lighthouse Avenue, where you can save up to 40% off Trek and Electra bicycles.

Monterey Core Fitness is excited to announce that we're now offering two different strength training classes for women to accommodate all fitness levels. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to challenge yourself, we’ve got you covered!

Come join us at 191 Lighthouse Avenue in Monterey. Learn more about our studio and register on our website.

Level 1

Perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers a slower approach, this class focuses on building a strong foundation. We’ll work on a variety of muscles, both upper and lower body, to help you build strength and stability at a comfortable pace.

Whether you’re new to fitness or seeking a balanced, full-body workout, this class will help you gain confidence and develop proper techniques.

Level 2

For those looking to push their limits, our classic Strength Training class has been renamed Level 2, keeping the same format you know and love. This class offers a more advanced, targeted approach to strength training. With a focus on specific muscle groups, such as chest and triceps, you’ll refine your technique and work on building muscle definition.

Ideal for those aiming for more precision and intensity, this class will help take your fitness to the next level.

Artist Mai Ryuno, owner of Play Full Ground studio at 550 Lighthouse Avenue, Suite E in Monterey, is offering introductory workshops for people to explore their creativity through drawing, photography, or video. Get more information and register here.

What's the Focus of the Workshops?

Mai has chosen drawing, photography, and video as mediums for you to experiment with ideas, create visual storytelling, and learn about yourself. She wants to empower you to embrace your uniqueness and express yourself with confidence. These introductory workshops allow you to explore different mediums, create quick and creative work, and learn about the endless possibilities of art and storytelling.

Who Are These Workshops For?

These workshops are for anyone and everyone! They will be especially beneficial if you are: living a routine life and wanting to spark joy in everyday life, are not knowing what you want to do, or are looking for a community that prioritizes freedom and kindness. No prior artistic experience is necessary.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment or Knowledge?

There is no need for fancy tools and techniques - what you have is enough for your journey of artistic discovery and exploration. To begin, just bring yourself and your unique perspective.

About Mai Ryuno

Mai Ryuno is an interdisciplinary, performance, and installation artist and educator whose work is inspired by everyday life activities. Since 2008, she's taught visual art and community development at institutions of higher education: being a professor at Hartnell College, Monterey Peninsula College, an assistant director and visiting faculty for youth and adult programs at San Francisco Art Institute, and a lead instructor at Center for Cities + Schools, UC Berkeley.