42 PUNCHMAGAZINE.COM PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF: RON STARR Beach Hotel resides 60 feet from the water’s edge and just minutes from downtown Monterey. While its location always commanded a seabird’s view of the ocean, a dramatic renovation revitalized the hotel’s midcentury architecture, blending it seamlessly with a fresh and contemporary coastal design. Fronting Monterey State Beach and nestled directly over a private stretch of shoreline, the property features 188 guestrooms and four suites. Color palettes— sandy tones, cool blues and warm wood accents—mirror the natural elements outside. Although some rooms have garden views, the majority face the ocean. Book surfside if you can and gaze away, taking advantage of a cozy sitting area and handy binoculars. This is a property that soundly celebrates passion for the sea. Everywhere you look, you’ll find dedicated spaces for paying communal homage. Step into the Lobby Lounge, and you’re greeted by expansive floor-toceiling windows showcasing the ever-shifting show. Against a natural symphony of pounding waves, one moment the beach is veiled in mist as fog rolls in; the next reveals golden sunlight and endless blue sky. Whether it’s for morning coffee or sunset happy hour, grab a table, settle into a comfy chair or hunker down by the fireplace. Think of the lounge like your living room, if it had breathtaking views, a tasty menu and a self-serve tap wall carrying a diverse selection of Central Coast wines. As the famed Danish author Isak Dinesen once penned, “The cure for anything is salt water: sweat, tears or the sea.” How right Dinesen was … ocean sounds and fresh sea air can lift your mood and promote quality sleep. Indeed, what’s more inherently soothing than being near the ocean—the rhythmic ebb and flow of waves, a salty breeze and an expansive horizon stretching to infinity? If you’re looking to spend time with Mother Nature’s therapist, Monterey now touts two newly remodeled oceanfront hotels: Monterey Beach Hotel and The Sanctuary Beach Resort. Both provide crashing surf just steps from your door with their own signature takes on relaxation, wellness and coastal escape. MONTEREY BEACH HOTEL: COASTAL ENERGY Originally built during 1967’s “Summer of Love,” Monterey {due west}
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