Nestled along the pristine California coastline, The Sanctuary Beach Resort offers a tranquil escape that seamlessly blends luxury with the raw beauty of Marina’s coastal landscape. Tucked away behind the sand dunes, the resort is nearly invisible from Highway 1, providing travelers with an intimate beachfront experience just minutes from the renowned destinations of Monterey and Carmel. 

Perched between the rugged Pacific Ocean and the golden sand dunes, the resort sits directly on a secluded beach, providing an exclusive sanctuary for those seeking respite from the everyday world creating an immediate sense of serenity. Guests can walk for hours along the soft sand, watch marine wildlife, or simply sit and absorb the rhythmic sounds of the Pacific. In the evening, the resort ignites beachfront firepits so guests can roast marshmallows for s’mores and savor the view from the Adirondack chairs arranged around the fire.

The Sanctuary 

Accommodations at the resort are designed to embrace the surrounding natural environment. Rooms are appointed with coastal-inspired decor, featuring soft, neutral tones that echo the surrounding landscape. Large windows allow natural light to flood the spaces, creating an airy, peaceful atmosphere. Our oceanfront suite included a plush bed dressed in luxurious bedding, a gas fireplace, and a spacious bathroom with a roomy rainfall shower. There’s a microwave, a refrigerator, and a small dining table if you want to stay in and enjoy a meal – amenities we took advantage of as we dined in at least one of the nights during our stay. Each room offers either sweeping ocean views or tranquil garden landscapes. Our private patio provided a space where we could sit with a glass of wine or hot tea as we watched the waves crash along the shore. It was a cold day in December, and the ocean’s winter mood was turbulent and dramatic. Don’t save beach getaways only for summer – the ocean is stunning in the winter months. I took a stroll with my dogs along the beach every morning and we had the beach all to ourselves – a definitive perk during the off-season. 

Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette 

One of the highlights during our visit was dining at the resort’s on-site restaurant, Salt Wood Kitchen and Oysterette.  As soon as we walked through the doors, we were enveloped by the warmth from the fire and beckoned by the aroma of roasting meats on the wood-fire grill. The grill is truly an asset to Salt Wood’s kitchen lending wood-fired flavor to everything it touches.  The preparation at Salt Wood is creative but not intimidating, relying on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a touch of fire for most dishes. Led by a chef committed to farm-to-table principles, the restaurant showcases local seafood, produce from nearby Salinas Valley, and wines from the renowned Monterey County vineyards. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring fresh, innovative dishes that capture the essence of coastal California cuisine. To start, we ordered the salmon crudo, clam chowder, and the Gilroy garlic clams. The crudo captured the essence of the sea with the mild anise flavor of the fennel and the kick from the horseradish enhancing the rich salmon belly. The chowder was creamy and redolent with clams. But the Gilroy garlic clams stole the show – juicy clams in a garlicky broth served with fresh bread toasted over the fire — irresistible. For entrees, we shared the perfectly grilled salmon in a savory green mole sauce and an aged NY steak with tangy chimichurri – both were mouthwatering. Yes, we sampled much at this first dinner, but returned the following night to sample yet more including the oysters, the barbecued chicken and the best cioppino I’ve ever eaten. There are many fine food restaurants around Carmel and Monterey, but Salt Wood is by far my new favorite. Whether you’re a guest at the resort, or not, a meal at Salt Wood is highly recommended. 

Four-legged Friends

More and more these days, I’ve noticed that more and more travelers bring their beloved pets on their journeys, and for travelers with four-legged companions, The Sanctuary Beach Resort stands out as a truly dog-friendly destination. Unlike many coastal resorts, they welcome dogs with genuine enthusiasm. Dog amenities include special pet-friendly rooms, complimentary dog beds, personalized food and water bowls, and even a dedicated dog walking area along the beach. There’s even a sign at the lobby door as well as a Stick Library where pups can choose their own stick to play fetch on the beach. The resort provides local dog-walking maps and can arrange pet-sitting services for guests wanting to explore nearby attractions. 

Local Attractions

Speaking of attractions, the resort’s location is a gateway to some of California’s most remarkable experiences. Carmel-by-the-Sea is just a 15-minute drive away, offering world-class dining, art galleries, and charming boutique shopping. Monterey’s famous aquarium and Cannery Row are equally accessible, providing cultural and marine life experiences that complement the resort’s natural setting.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. The resort offers direct beach access for surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve provides hiking trails with unparalleled ocean views, while golf lovers can enjoy world-renowned courses like Pebble Beach just a short drive away.

The Spa

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the resort’s spa offers treatments that incorporate local ingredients and ocean-inspired therapies. The coastal location allows for unique experiences like beach yoga at sunrise and guided meditation sessions overlooking the Pacific.

During my stay, I enjoyed an exceptional massage from Rebecca at The Spa, and the following day, I took a yoga class at the Renewal Studio rounding out a perfect weekend of self indulgence. 

Who Should  Visit 

The Sanctuary Beach Resort is perfect for travelers seeking a sophisticated yet unpretentious coastal getaway. Couples will appreciate the romantic setting, while adventure seekers will love the proximity to outdoor activities. Families with dogs will find it particularly appealing, as the resort truly embraces pet-friendly hospitality. It checks all the boxes. In fact, The Sanctuary Beach Resort is hands down my favorite getaway spot in the Bay Area for wellness, relaxation, and serenity.

The resort is more than just a place to stay – it’s an experience that connects guests with the natural beauty of Monterey Bay. From the moment you arrive, you’re enveloped in a sense of tranquility that feels both luxurious and authentic. 

Rates start around $300 per night, delivering exceptional value considering the unique location, top-tier amenities, and immersive coastal experience. For travelers seeking a destination that offers both relaxation and adventure, The Sanctuary Beach Resort is an unparalleled choice that promises memories far beyond a typical beach vacation.

The Sanctuary Beach Resort

3295 Dunes Drive

Marina, CA 93933

831.883.9478

thesanctuarybeachresort.com