It is between the Gabilan and Santa Lucia mountain ranges about 9 miles inland from Monterey Bay. The climate for Salinas is moderate and Mediterranean-like in the summer. Here is a climate page for Salinas. The weather in Salinas is mild. Because of its proximity to the Monterey Bay and the Pacific Ocean, the temperatures never become extreme.
Rain usually falls only in winter and early spring.
Here is a history page for Salinas. When Mexico seceded from Spain in 1822, many land grants were given, including the area that would later become Salinas. It was named for a nearby salt marsh, becoming the County seat for Monterey County in 1872 and incorporating in 1874. It became known as the Salad Bowl of the World because of the success in farming many salad ingredients such as broccoli, mushrooms, strawberries and others. The climate is perfect for growing thse and other crops such as grapes and flowers.