Where to Stay, What to Do & Where to Eat on the Central Coast
Planning a Monterey weekend getaway? This 2-day Monterey itinerary blends coastal views, Michelin-recognized dining, a VIP Monterey Bay Aquarium experience, and a scenic drive along the iconic 17-Mile Drive—all while staying in Sand City, California—one of the Central Coast’s most under-the-radar creative hubs.
Located minutes from Cannery Row, Pebble Beach, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Sand City offers a quieter, art-forward alternative to Monterey’s more packed streets—without sacrificing proximity to the action.
If you’re searching for where to stay near Monterey, what to do in Sand City, or how to spend 48 hours on California’s Central Coast, this guide walks you through it step-by-step.
Why Sand City Is Worth Adding to Your Monterey Itinerary
Often overshadowed by Carmel-by-the-Sea and Cannery Row, Sand City has quietly transformed from an industrial warehouse district into a vibrant enclave filled with large-scale murals, working artist studios, makers markets, and now—its first full-service, dual-branded hotel.
It’s five minutes from Monterey, ten from Pebble Beach, and far less congested than the tourist-heavy waterfront areas. If you want Central Coast access with a more relaxed, local feel—one that steers clear of touristy shenanigans—this is the move.
Where to Stay in Sand City
Sand City’s first hotel is the dual-branded Courtyard by Marriott Sand City Monterey and Residence Inn by Marriott Sand City Monterey. The property blends modern coastal design inspired by the Italian seaside with the comfort and layout of a residential-style stay.
Think lemon motifs tucked into the design details, an open-air lobby that immediately sets a relaxed tone, and subtle coastal touches that make you feel like you’ve landed somewhere between Monterey and the Amalfi Coast.
The property offers a spacious piazza featuring The Lido Stage, which serves as both a community space and venue for performances, events, makers markets and more. From stunning oceanview suites complete with kitchenettes and spacious balconies for taking in the coastal views, we felt right at home.
Our favorite amenity? The enormous hot tub and heated pool which in and of itself makes this feel more resort-forward than typical Monterey hotels. The sunsets on a clear night are unbeatable.
Highlights include:
- Spacious guest rooms and residential-style suites
- Kitchenettes and oceanview balconies in select rooms
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- On-site bistro serving locally inspired cuisine
- Open-air piazza with fire pits and lounge seating
- The largest hot tub on California’s Central Coast
Set directly along the coastline and within a 15-minute drive of Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the hotel works as an ideal base for exploring the peninsula.
Booking tip: If visiting during peak travel months (June–September), Monterey Car Week, or major golf events in Pebble Beach, book your stay at least 3–4 weeks in advance. Coastal inventory fills quickly.
Best time to visit: Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer milder weather, clearer skies, and fewer crowds while still delivering those dramatic Central Coast sunsets.
Here’s a look at the Courtyard by Marriott Sand City Monterey and Residence Inn by Marriott’s Grand Opening event which offered live music, food and cocktails to celebrate Sand City’s major milestone.
Day 1: Sand City Murals, Coastal Relaxation & Michelin Dining
Morning: Explore Sand City’s Murals by E-Bike
Sand City is known for its bold, large-scale murals and working artist studios. Renting a Zybra e-bike directly outside the hotel is one of the easiest ways to explore the district.
Even if you’re not especially confident on two wheels—like me—the ride is pretty chill and there aren’t many cars around. Cruise through colorful streets, stop at public art installations, and continue toward the beach for some fresh ocean air and a break.
If you’re researching things to do in Sand City, mural hopping is a must.
Midway through your ride, stop at Sweet Elena’s for pastries and fresh-baked bread. Do not skip the almond croissant—flaky, buttery, and generously filled with almond frangipane.
Afternoon: Hot Tub + Sunset Reset
Return to the hotel for downtime. The oversized hot tub becomes especially impressive at sunset, when the Monterey Bay sky shifts into pink and gold.
Enjoy cocktails by the fire pits before getting ready for dinner.
Dinner: Maligne (Michelin Guide Recommended)
Just minutes from Sand City in Seaside, Maligne is Michelin Guide recommended and specializes in contemporary Italian-American cuisine with French technique in a cozy, hip loft-like setting.
Expect:
- Seasonal pastas and local ingredients
- Thoughtfully sourced seafood
- Refined yet approachable plating
- A warm, intimate dining room with an open kitchen
If you’re building a Monterey weekend itinerary focused on great food, Maligne deserves a reservation.
Reservation tip: Book at least one week in advance for weekend dinners.
Day 2: Monterey Bay Aquarium & 17-Mile Drive
Morning: Monterey Bay Aquarium (Behind-the-Scenes Experience)
No Monterey itinerary is complete without visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This is one of my favorite places to visit and this was my first time getting a behind-the-scenes look at the sea life.
For a deeper experience, book a specialty or behind-the-scenes tour.
Our visit included:
- Meeting the famous sea otters
- Touching—yes touching— the jellyfish
- Feeding trout
- Both viewing sharks and deep-sea fish from above the tanks and feeding them
Plan to spend at least 3–4 hours here, especially if booking a specialty or VIP experience.
Unexpected highlight? Lunch overlooking the bay. The aquarium’s culinary program emphasizes sustainability, local ingredients and responsibly sourced seafood. Dishes like Vietnamese tiger prawns with pork belly, opal barramundi ceviche, and Ora King salmon poke with mango and jalapeño elevate this far beyond standard museum fare. I was blown away by the entire experience.
Ticket tip: Purchase aquarium tickets online in advance, especially during summer and holiday weekends.
Afternoon: Classic Cars on 17-Mile Drive
For one of the most iconic scenic drives in California, rent a vintage vehicle from Monterey Touring Vehicles and cruise the legendary 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach.
Expect:
- Dramatic Pacific Ocean cliffs
- The Lone Cypress and countless other landmarks
- Pebble Beach golf course views
- Wind-swept coastal landscapes
- Unparalleled photo ops
Cruising the coastline in an electric purple Firebird made the afternoon feel cinematic—peak California nostalgia. We felt so cool. This is definitely a must-do when visiting the coast.
Reservation tip: Reserve classic cars several days ahead during peak season.
Dinner in Old Monterey: Cella
End your 48 hours in Sand City and Monterey with dinner at Cella located inside the historic Cooper Molera Adobe, in Old Monterey.
Expect:
- Ingredient-driven plates highlighting Central Coast produce and seafood
- Refined presentations
- Innovative creative craft cocktails
- Intimate dining room inside a historic adobe setting
Quick 2-Day Monterey Itinerary Overview
Day 1
Check into Sand City hotel
E-bike mural tour
Pastries at Sweet Elena’s
Monterey Trail + Sand City Beach
Sunset hot tub
Dinner at Maligne
Day 2
Breakfast at hotel
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Lunch overlooking the bay
17-Mile Drive scenic cruise
Dinner at Cella
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Sand City & Monterey
Is Sand City worth visiting?
Yes. It offers a quieter, creative alternative to Monterey while staying minutes from major attractions.
How far is Sand City from Monterey Bay Aquarium?
Approximately 10–15 minutes by car.
Is Sand City walkable?
The mural district is walkable, though a bike or car makes exploring beaches and neighboring towns easier.
What’s the best time of year to visit Monterey?
Spring and fall offer ideal weather and lighter crowds.
How long should you spend in Monterey?
Two-three days is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to combine dining, coastal drives, and the aquarium.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a Monterey weekend itinerary, consider basing yourself in Sand City. Between mural-lined streets, elevated dining, coastal drives, and a waterfront hotel that feels both relaxed and polished, this creative enclave delivers Central Coast access without the congestion.
Related Central Coast Guides
Planning more time on California’s Central Coast? You might also like:
• Everything You Need To Know For The Ultimate Central California Road Trip + Six Day Itinerary
• A Weekend Of Coastal Bliss In Avila Beach, California
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Chelsea is a San Francisco-based journalist whose passion revolves around exploring the world, immersing herself in foreign cultures, and of course, eating and drinking everything delicious.
Her work can be found in TravelPulse, Forbes, INSIDER, SF Gate and more. She covers all things food, drink and travel and is always up for an adventure, whether that means an adrenaline-pumping excursion or trying a new cuisine.
