The towns of Marina, Seaside and Sand City have become a hub for adventure activities, interesting food and fantastic art, combining a "SoHo West" feel with the peace of seaside life. All three are located right on the water, so visitors can walk straight from a loft-style artist's gallery over to the beach for some parasailing and then head back over the dunes for a drink while admiring the sunset.
Day 1
4 pm
The local artists' scene is concentrated in Sand City. Once a factory district in which sand was made and processed (hence the name), its industrial areas later became a popular place for artists to work and live. Sand City decided to support artists and legalize their live-work lofts and now the tiny town of 310 is packed wall-to-wall with resident artists. Check the Sand City website for a list of artists and galleries.
6 pm
Grab a drink before dinner at Sand City's crown jewel, Post No Bills. The unassuming watering hole is home to all sorts of hard-to-find beers, wines, hard ciders and craft sodas.
7 pm
Grab dinner at Gusto’s in Seaside, which highlights some of the most authentic pasta and pizza dishes on the peninsula, featuring Italian favorites like house-made lasagna, hand-crafted ravioli, and classic cannolis.
Day 2
7 am
It's an early morning. If you're a surfer, it's time to head over to Marina State Beach and catch some waves. If you prefer golf, head over to Bayonet and Black Horse Golf Course for a quick breakfast and 36 holes with a fascinating history. Originally the on-base golf course for the Army's Fort Ord, one section of these courses was designed around a general's notorious slice and has earned the nickname "Combat Corner." If you find yourself in the rough, take solace in the glorious view of Monterey Bay as you try to find your ball.
Noon
Get a taste of Marina's local beer scene at English Ales. Here you can sample handcrafted Engligh brews and dine on traditional English pub food.
1:30 pm
Once lunch has settled head on over to the Marina Airport and experience views of the Monterey Bay like you've never seen before. Skydive Monterey Bay will take you on a tandem jump at 18,000 feet for incredible views seen at 120 mph. Cowabunga!
4 pm
Head over to the Sanctuary Beach Resort, which offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. With private beach access, a pool, beach yoga, hikes, and sunset bonfires—plus award-winning dining at Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette—it’s an ideal escape for couples, families, and groups alike.
6 pm
Close out the day by heading to Marina State Beach and achieve instant tranquility. This beach is known for its sand dunes, which reach heights rarely seen on the coast of California and provide a home to unique birds, plants and animals. The well-marked Dune Nature Trail has signs throughout explaining the various features and creatures you'll find along the way. Depending on the season, you'll either be able to feast your eyes on the antics of hang gliders, who launch from an area directly south of the parking lot or sit with the locals and check out Marina's hottest evening show - its breathtaking sunsets.
7 pm
Snag a reservation at the coveted Salt Wood Kitchen. Located at The Sanctuary Beach Resort. This coastal gem showcases raw, cured, and wood-fired dishes with a seafood focus, complemented by Central Coast wines and local craft brews.
Day 3
10 am
Pick up a to-go breakfast at Coffee Mia and bring it down to the beach at Sand City. While nearby Marina State Beach is a favorite for hang gliders, Sand City is where paragliders fill the sky. Breathe in the salty air, watch the colorful sails drift above, and soak in the calm — it’s the perfect sendoff before heading home.