Find Ice Cream Near Me
Guides  ·  List Your Shop

Artisan Ice Cream Shops in Monterey, CA

Looking for real ice cream in Monterey? These 6 local ice cream across Monterey and nearby California are the artisan spots — no chains, just the good stuff.

1. JUGOS LAS 2 FRIDAS Artisan Ice Cream

2440 Fremont St Ste 202

2. Monterey Bay Creamery Artisan Ice Cream

43 Fishermans Whrf

3. Revival Ice Cream Artisan Ice Cream

463 Alvarado Street

4. Ghirardelli Monterey Bay Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · Steinbeck Plaza One, 685 Cannery Row

5. Scoops Ice Cream Parlor Artisan Ice Cream

595 Munras Ave

6. Dippin' Dots Artisan Ice Cream

☆ Rate · Monterey, CA

Ice cream shops in Monterey, CA: a local guide

We currently track 6 ice cream shops and parlors serving Monterey, CA in Monterey County.

What ice cream costs in Monterey

A single scoop in Monterey usually runs about $4-$7, with specialty sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a little more than soft-serve chains.

What to look for in an ice cream shop in Monterey

  • Ask what's seasonal or local — the best shops rotate flavors and use local dairy or fruit.
  • Read reviews for portion size and freshness, not just the flavor list.
  • Check hours and seasonality — many Monterey scoop shops keep shorter winter hours.
  • For groups or events, ask about pints, cakes, and catering.
  • Look for house-made or small-batch ice cream — Monterey shops that churn their own usually taste fresher.

Questions to ask before you go

  • What are your hours this time of year?
  • Do you have gluten-free cones or toppings?
  • Do you make your ice cream in-house?
  • What dairy-free or vegan options do you have?
  • Which flavors are seasonal or local right now?

Many Monterey listings also serve hand-dipped ice cream, soft serve, gelato, sorbet, and dairy-free options.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ice cream cost in Monterey?

A single scoop in Monterey usually runs about $4 to $7, with sundaes, shakes, and pints higher. Small-batch and locally made ice cream costs a bit more than soft-serve chains.

Where can I find dairy-free or vegan ice cream in Monterey?

Many Monterey shops now carry dairy-free, vegan, or sorbet options. Check the listings above and ask, since offerings change with the season.

What is the difference between gelato and ice cream?

Gelato has less fat and less air than ice cream, so it is denser with more intense flavor. Several Monterey shops serve both.

Are Monterey ice cream shops open year-round?

Some keep shorter winter hours or close seasonally. Check the hours for the shop you have in mind before you go.

Own an ice cream shop in Monterey?

Claim your shop and get featured → Add photos, hours, and your best flavors, and pin to the top of Monterey.

Scoops near Monterey

Handy links for Monterey and the surrounding area.

Ice cream in nearby towns

Pacific Grove, CA
3 ice cream · 3 mi
Marina, CA
4 ice cream · 8 mi
Salinas, CA
8 ice cream · 15 mi
Watsonville, CA
10 ice cream · 23 mi
San Juan Bautista, CA
2 ice cream · 26 mi
Capitola, CA
11 ice cream · 26 mi
Santa Cruz, CA
16 ice cream · 27 mi

About Monterey

Monterey official website
Town hall, permits, events
Monterey on Wikipedia
History, population & landmarks

Things to do in Monterey

Spas in Monterey
64 listed on StressBalans
Home Designers in Monterey
34 listed on House Designers Near Me
Antiques in Monterey
11 listed on Bottle Tree Antiques