By Elizabeth Kang
Nestled between Santa Cruz and Monterey, The Sanctuary Beach Resort is a hidden gem, tucked away off the radar on a sandy, secluded beach. Located in the small town of Marina, Ca, this family and pet-friendly resort is a beach-lover’s dream.
With rooms and suites situated right on the sandy beach and swoon-worthy panoramic sunset views, this oceanside sanctuary is perfect for both families and romantic getaways. With an incredible onsite restaurant, a heated pool and hot tub, cozy fire pits, beach volleyball courts, bocce and more, The Sanctuary Beach Resort should be bookmarked as your next beachside stay.
Idyllic Accommodations
Most rooms and suites boast crystal clear ocean views, and some are even situated just feet from the ocean, where crashing waves lull guests to sleep. The accommodations are situated in one and two-story attached bungalows, and range from 380 to 460-square-feet, with cozy fireplaces and soothing, coastal decor. Those traveling with more than two will find pullout sofa beds to accommodate extra sleepers. Expansive patios and decks are perfect for sitting outside to enjoy the cool ocean breezes and breathtaking sunsets.
Delightful Dining
The property’s onsite restaurant — Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette — is a popular dining destination, with eager diners traveling from Monterey, Santa Cruz and Carmel to dine. Luckily, guests of the resort only need to walk a few feet to be treated to fresh oysters and innovative, seasonal dishes such as seared octopus, tender pork belly, and miso-glazed cod. Along with an inspired cocktail menu and decadent desserts, this beautifully decorated, modern eatery is a treat to experience. Reservations are recommended.
Endless Amenities
While The Sanctuary is perfectly suited for long beach days, there’s much more to while away lazy days at and around the resort. In addition to a large, heated pool and hot tub, there are sandy volleyball courts for friendly games, and bocce ball courts even little ones can take advantage of. Those wanting to start the day off right will want to sign up for Beach Yoga, offered every Saturday and Sunday morning at 9:30 am. Yoga participants are treated to an hour-long, invigorating sessions, along with a lavender face mask and bottle of juice.
In the evenings, fire pits, which are also peppered throughput the property, are lit, so guests can enjoy cozy beachside evenings by crackling wood fires. These fire pits are lit nightly and stocked with extra firewood, so be sure to purchase a cute s’mores kit from the well-stocked store by the lobby.
Complimentary Activities
Another fun activity offered by the resort is the daily nature walk, departing at 10 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from The Lodge. This complimentary, one-hour discovery walk is led by naturalists, who regal audiences with interesting facts about local flora and fauna. It’s an easy two-mile loop through the picturesque Marina Dunes Preserve, which lie adjacent to the property. The resort also offers complimentary use of stylish beach cruisers to enjoy beachside bike rides or for exploring around town, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Sanctuary Beach Resort provides everything needed for a relaxing beachside vacation with the whole family, including Fido. At less than a two-hour drive from the East Bay Area, it’s the perfect spot for a last-minute getaway with family, friends, and loved ones.