Monaca is a cloud-based development platform designed for creating mobile applications using web technologies like HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript. It allows developers to build cross-platform apps that can run on both iOS and Android devices, streamlining the development process and reducing the need for separate codebases. The platform offers various tools and services, including a user-friendly interface, debugging options, and integration with popular frameworks. Monaca also supports the use of Apache Cordova, enabling developers to access native device features, such as the camera and GPS, enhancing the functionality of their applications.