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Outdoor Adventure

Student adjusting helmet to walk the high ropes
Recreation

Explore the Outdoors

Cal State Monterey Bay is in the perfect location for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.

We’re a mile from the beach and a short drive to a variety of scenic spots for hiking, biking, camping and exploring. Located on California’s Monterey Bay, we’re also within reach of stunning state and national parks. 

CSUMB Recreation encourages Otters to get out and explore the great outdoors. We have hiking and biking trails accessible from campus, beaches for surfing a short drive from campus, and state and national parks to explore on weekend trips.

Whatever your level of outdoor experience, CSUMB Recreation is here to support your adventures. From beginner-friendly activities and outings to outdoor gear rentals, you'll find many opportunities to make unforgettable outdoor memories, meet new people, and write your own Otter experience.

Our Programs and Services

Here’s a look at some of the ways to explore and participate. 

Trips and Activities

Throughout each academic year, we organize a variety of excursions, from kayaking near Cannery Row to sunset hikes along the coast and weekend camping trips in Big Sur. To register, visit CSUMB Recreation's MyRaft page.

Equipment Rentals

Want to plan your own adventure? Rent a tent, sleeping bag and stove for a weekend camping trip. Grab a boogie board, surfboard and wetsuit for the day or weekend. Ride the local single track trails and bike paths on one of our bike rentals. Learn more about rentals.

Team Building and Group Development

CSUMB Recreation provides experiential team building and group development, adventure-based education and professional development programs to students, staff, faculty and outside groups.

We can customize a program to meet your needs, from length of time to location. We have a Challenge Course for team-building activities right on campus. We also offer a variety of team building activities that can be played here or brought to you.

No matter which option or timeframe you choose, our programs are designed to:

  • Improve teamwork, group cohesion and cooperation
  • Develop leadership and communication skills
  • Encourage problem-solving
  • Challenge groups and individuals to reach for their potential

Request a Program 

View Programming Fees

Outdoor Resources and Links

There’s so much to do in the Monterey Bay region and beyond. Here are just a few places you can research and plan your next adventure.

California is home to hundreds of state parks and recreational areas. You can explore them all at the Find a Park page. 

Here are a few within our region of the state: 

The Central Coast State Parks Association website is also an excellent resource.

A few resources and guides for bouldering and climbing.