The Sanctuary Beach Resort

We recently returned from our second stay at The Sanctuary Beach Resort (Oct 10–13), and it continues to be one of the most serene and beautiful coastal properties we’ve visited. That said, for the premium price, there are a few things guests should be aware of before booking. What We Loved: The ocean views are truly breathtaking—and it’s rare to find such a pet-friendly property that doesn’t feel like a compromise. Falling asleep and waking up to the sound of waves was the highlight of our stay. The suites are well-stocked and even include binoculars for whale watching—a nice touch. On-site amenities are excellent: a spa, in-room dining, EV charging, and a restaurant that even features live jazz on Friday nights. We also loved the nightly bonfire hosted by the resort—perfect for cooler evenings. Service was warm and welcoming. Upon check-in, a bellman brought us and our luggage to the room by golf cart, which made everything seamless. Things to Consider: While we love that the resort is pet-friendly, it can get noisy at times with dogs barking—something to consider if you’re not traveling with pets. Room descriptions can be misleading. Our first stay was in an oceanfront suite with direct sand access—amazing! This time, we booked a "panoramic ocean view suite" but found the view partially blocked by a neighboring unit. Definitely call ahead to confirm the view and layout. The property is partially shared with a timeshare company, so some walkways and parking spots are restricted.

Absolutely beautiful! Bed was so comfy, location is beautiful, and staff was soooo nice. Restaurant was lovely. Truly wish I would’ve asked the gentleman’s name there, as he was so kind and personable. Only downside is the sound insulation. Surrounding rooms were soooo loud. Heavy walking, running, moving the chairs etc. Next door would open their door and sound like they’re in the room with us. Will return, but will make sure to get a separated room for ensure a peaceful stay.

I had an amazing stay at Sanctuary Beach Resort. The service was outstanding from the moment we arrived—everyone was welcoming, attentive, and truly made us feel taken care of. The location is perfect, right next to the beach, with breathtaking ocean views that make the whole experience even more special. The hotel is beautifully maintained and extremely clean, which made our stay very comfortable. Waking up to the sound of the ocean and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere was unforgettable. Everything—from the service to the location and the views—was simply perfect. I would absolutely recommend Sanctuary Beach Resort to anyone looking for a relaxing beachfront getaway. Definitely a 5-star experience!

Hands down THE place to stay! This was my girls trip destination & my friend & I felt so welcomed from the moment we arrived. Everyone was so friendly & helpful. Our room was the perfect size, enjoyed early mornings & late evenings on the balcony watching & listening to the ocean waves. Nightly bonfires on the private beach, feet in the soft, cool sand & watching the sunset was such a peaceful, beautiful & perfect way to end the day. The dinners at Saltwood were full of flavor & the drinks creative & so good. I must say the location is as perfect as it gets ..15 minutes from the airport, can easily drive to Pacific Grove, Carmel by the Sea, Point Lobos, Salinas & Monterey with ease. My friend & I decided by day 2 of our stay that this would be our yearly girls trip destination. If I could give higher than five stars I would.

We went to the Sanctuary Beach Resort for my birthday. It was lovely. Our room was basically on the beach (kind of) and we could watch the sunrise and sunset light the horizon with gorgeous colors. They have 5 bonfire cauldrons on the beach which they come and light every night. There are Adirondack chairs surrounding the bonfire, or you can line them up straight to watch the sunsets. It was incredible to go to the beach in the evenings in front of a beautiful fire, listening to the ocean and the fires as they dance together in calming sounds. I could've fallen asleep right there. The rooms are so pleasing to the eye and they've thought of everything, from the basket with throw blankets to wrap yourself in, to binoculars next to the door so you can grab them to watch the dolphins and whales. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see any. It was pretty chilly and had a very strong "breeze" while we were there. The beds are so comfortable that I fell asleep as my head touched the pillows. A complimentary bottle of sparkling wine with a lovely note awaited us on the first night, and they had chocolate with an herb infused to help you sleep (which i didn't need at all) sitting on the pillows. There's a soaking tub and a shower on separate sides of the bathroom. And, yes, I took a luxurious bath during our stay. They do have a decent blow dryer, FYI, and shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in the shower. The restaurant on site is very good. The food was sublime. We wound up eating there every day. There is a complimentary coffee bar in the lobby, and they do have coffee in the room (with tea bags and honey in cute little jars), but it's a pour-over "tea" bag that you steep. It wasn't bad but it wasn't great. The refrigerator is stocked with beverages that you have to pay for individually. We didn't use any, but it's there. There are also some packaged snacks available. There's a gas fireplace that affords a nice ambience, while also adding coziness on a chilly night. The resort is very dog friendly, for those of you with fur babies.

Sanctuary Beach Resort is one of those rare places that truly lives up to its name. Our oceanfront deluxe suite opened right onto the sand, with Adirondack chairs perfectly positioned for sunset views. Inside, the room was beautifully designed — warm tones, a cozy fireplace, and thoughtful touches like macarons and sparkling wine on arrival from the front desk made it feel extra special. Parking is plentiful, and guests use a shuttle to reach their rooms — service was prompt every time, never more than a five-minute wait. The property is extremely dog-friendly, and its location is ideal, just a short 15-minute drive to the heart of Monterey. We preordered breakfast for delivery the next morning, and it arrived hot, fresh, and right on time. Falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to the ocean just steps away was unforgettable. The entire property feels peaceful and private, with friendly service and that effortless Carmel charm. A perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and soak in the California coast. Highly recommend.

Stayed here over the weekend with a girlfriend for galentines. We ended up getting an ocean front room since I brought my dog and we wanted quick access to the beach and bonfires. Everything was amazing. The staff was incredibly friendly. The grounds are beautiful and serene. It is VERY dog friendly which I love. Lots of families too. Had dinner both nights at the restaurant. Got the Caesar and the rigatoni. I loved the Caesar. My friend said the dressing was much too lemony for her but I was a fan. Pasta tasted fresh made and the sauce was balanced and a little spicy. Very flavorful. Chicken was meh. Not great not terrible. But wouldn’t get it again. My friend said her twice baked potato was one of the best she’d ever had. We both got spa treatment. Definitely on the pricey side… but it’s a resort. To be expected IMO. The spa is beautiful and the robe fit me! I’m a thick girl and usually the robes don’t fit/won’t close all the way. The massage therapist and esthetician were both wonderful. My facial was excellent and so was the massage. Fell asleep for both.There aren’t a whole lot of bakery/cafe/restaurant options within a 10 min drive there are a couple however. Monterey and PG are only a 20ish min drive away. I will definitely be coming back here! Some things to note! The suite we stayed in wasn’t very sound proof. Didn’t bother me but my dog tends to bark at random noises and my friend said it was really loud when people were coming and going from the rooms around us.

Arrived yesterday for an engagement! This place is amazing! Very very nice and accommodating staff! We just walked in from the Monterey Aquarium and there are Macaroons and a bottle of Champagne on the table for us. The restaurant is amazing as we’ll ask for Tye! She is an amazing server! We will be coming back again and again!