By Charmaine Hibbert

I spent years dreaming of going to California and learning to surf there and although I knew there would be no time to learn to surf on this particular trip when the opportunity arrived to go to California I couldn’t let the chance slip by. We leave Stevinson in the dark at 5am knowing we have a two-hour drive to Monterey ahead of us.

I was looking forward to taking in some of the views as we hit the Monterey Peninsula and as the dark started to give way to the dawn, the change in scenery is remarkable, nothing really prepares you for the beauty of Monterey and although it isn’t the warmest or brightest of days, we can see what a stunning part of the world this is.

We arrive at The Sanctuary Beach Resort in Monterey Bay I feel like I am sleep walking in a dream. Monterey Bay is such a magical place and the gorgeous hotel is situated against the most beautiful of backdrops. Our room has the most amazing beachfront views imaginable. As we arrived I knew this section of the trip is going to be like no other.

We have our very own private patio, to enjoy these breathtaking views. You cannot fail to fall in love with the view that is bestowed upon you as we watch the Pacific’s waves crashing against the shoreline from our veranda. We open up the bottle of Californian red wine that has kindly been left for us and sit in silence as the Pacific Ocean displays its powerful majesty.

Whether this is a business trip like ours or just one of leisure and pure relaxation you will find Sanctuary Beach Resort like no other resort on the Monterey Peninsula. With 19 acres of secluded oceanfront to explore you should find the time to take a leisurely stroll down to the beach, the crisp sea air and the sound of the ocean is hard to put into words it’s so calming and soothes the soul.

That morning sitting watching the grey ocean with its white capped waves crashing on the yellow sands, with a glass of ruby red wine in hand, will be a moment in time that will leave with me forever.

Spa Treatments

Sanctuary Beach Resort offers the ultimate in rest and relaxation. And you can’t go home without treating yourself to one of Serenity Spas variety of treatments to really help you rejuvenate. These treatments include massage, facials and aromatherapy. Who could say no to a full body massage?

Serenity Spa is open from 8am – 9pm daily, but the reservation hours are from 8am – 7pm. If you have a set time in mind it would be advised to book in advance to ensure the availability of your preferred time, either through the front desk or the Serenity Spa. In room massages are also available, which I just loved the idea of, but please be aware that an additional $20 service charge will be added and I stress you will need to book in advance if you want this service.

Kula Ranch Restaurant

Kula Ranch is the brainchild of popular local restaurateur, Joe Loeffler. And although we had an idea of what the food would be like I was still surprised to see there was a sushi bar. Sushi is one of my favourite foods but you can’t beat a bit of steak and ours are prepared to perfection. I have to say the friendly helpful service at the table and the relaxed atmosphere of the restaurant only adds to the feeling of calm and enhanced our experience.

Sanctuary Beach Resort
3295 Dunes Drive
Marina, Monterey
California 93933

Telephone
+(01) 877-944-3863

Website
thesanctuarybeachresort.com