They're baaaaack... Sea lions have returned in large numbers to San Carlos Beach. The City of Monterey has temporarily closed the beach to keep all humans and pinnipeds safe.

Everyone, please remember to enjoy the sea lions from a distance - they are large and can be territorial and unpredictable.

A reminder: all 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. It's their bay too.

We are lucky to have a new, locally-owned produce market opening soon in New Monterey at 899 Lighthouse Avenue!

Farm Fresh Produce Since 1964 will offer locally sourced fruit and honey, products from local growers such as garlic from Christopher Ranch and apple juice from Martinelli's, as well as a large variety of dried fruits and nuts. Keep an eye out and pay them a visit.

Hi, I am Mary, owner of Cypress Boutique. I am married to my wonderful husband, Brian, and together we have the sweetest baby boy, who fills our lives with love and joy every single day.

My business journey began in 2015 when I opened my shop as a streetwear boutique at 800 Lighthouse Avenue. As the fashion industry changed and many brands became less affordable, I chose to shift the shop's focus to handpicked thrifted, vintage, and carefully selected new items at prices that felt attainable. Learn more about Mary and Cypress Boutique .

The Lighthouse District's annual Movie in the Park will be held on Saturday, September 19 at 7pm at Scholze Park. This year, we'll watch School of Rock (2003) under the stars. But in order to produce this event, we need your financial help !

There are three levels of sponsorship - $100, $50, $25 - that will help pay for event costs and promote your business. Read details here.

Make your payment online . Payment must be received by Wednesday, August 19 in order to be recognized in print advertising. (But we'll happily accept your sponsorship after that date and add you to our online list of sponsors!)

Sovino Wine and Beer Bar hosts Karaoke with Ryan Rico every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 7pm-10pm. Come get a drink and enjoy the relaxed, friendly atmosphere of this locally-owned establishment at 241 Alvarado Street.

Meet Mr. Stripes. One of Play Full Ground's students spent hours creating him as a birthday gift for another student and brought him to our Co-Creation Studio . The birthday student named him Mr. Stripes, and he sat on a plate of Japanese snacks, quietly observing what happened during the session.

During studio time, Mr. Stripes received a few more additions: a tie and socks. Because sometimes a creation is finished...until it asks for one more thing.

At Play Full Ground, we don't always know where an idea will lead. A project grows through making, noticing, conversations, and unexpected moments. Learn more about our fall educational programs for teens.

Thanks to our customers, Bliss Boutique has celebrated 25 incredible years in business. With a full heart, we want to share that our brick-and-mortar location at 380 Alvarado Street is now closed.

We are planning a special event there on Saturday, August 1, selling all of our fixtures and displays - stop by and find a great deal.

Photos from the 2026 4th of July festivities in Downtown Old Monterey are now online! View moments captured at the parade , the Colton Hall lawn party , the pancake breakfast , Cooper-Molera Adobe , and Monterey State Historic Park .

The Old Monterey Business Association, which produces the 4th of July Parade, thanks everyone who marched, sponsored, volunteered, and attended! It was a beautiful celebration of our community on the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.