Sanctuary Beach Resort

The place

Set right on the sand of Monterey Bay, the resort reads like an upscale seaside cabin — recently renovated, quiet, open to the water.

Each of the 60 rooms and suites comes in coastal tones, with modern furniture, a fireplace, a private terrace, and artisanal touches. Light off the ocean does the rest.

A heated outdoor pool and a serene spa sit alongside nightly bonfires, beach yoga, guided nature walks, and a volleyball court. Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette cooks seafood from the bounty of the Central Coast, with a California touch.