Salinas Valley Overview (please use the links to the right for more detailed information)
The Salinas Valley, located in Monterey County, is a rich cultural landscape allowing visitors and residents to enjoy the beauty of a pristine environment coupled with easy access to Northern California and Central Coast hot spots. It is a gateway to many amazing destinations, while also maintaining its own unique presence.
The Salinas Valley sits between the Gabilan and Santa Lucia mountain ranges and follows the Salinas River to the Monterey Bay. Salinas is located 20 miles northeast of Monterey, 55 miles south of San Jose, 101 miles south of San Francisco and 325 miles north of Los Angeles. The moderate climate is ideal, with an average temperature of 68 degrees and Mediterranean-like weather in the summer. Salinas was recently named the city with the best climate in the United States and Canada in "Cities Ranked and Rated," a book comparing 400 cities.
The strong economy of the local agriculture industry is partnered with a relaxed lifestyle to create a high quality of life in the Salinas Valley. Salinas is the seat of Monterey County, with a population of 152,677; The population of Monterey County is 425,102. Salinas is the regional shopping area with an auto center, a number of shopping malls and beautifully renovated Oldtown Salinas which boasts antique shops and boutiques.
The Salinas Valley, located in Monterey County, is a rich cultural landscape allowing visitors and residents to enjoy the beauty of a pristine environment coupled with easy access to Northern California and Central Coast hot spots. It is a gateway to many amazing destinations, while also maintaining its own unique presence. 
