Marina / Seaside

 

Marina, California, is a city in Monterey County, California. Home to approximately 22,000 residents, Marina is situated north of Monterey. The coastline is undeveloped and provides a habitat for many endangered species. Seaside, founded in 1888, is home to approximately 32,000 residents and is situated east of Monterey. Both of these communities grew out of Fort Ord, a former military complex that is now home to California State University, Monterey Bay, and the Monterey College of Law. Residents of Marina and Seaside enjoy a Mediterranean climate featuring cool winters and mild summers.

 

Once home to 25,000 soldiers of Fort Ord, Marina is home to the Fort Ord National Monument with 86 miles of trails to explore! There are also several major centers of learning, including the University of California at Monterey Bay.

 

Marina is home to Marina State Beach, one of the most beautiful state parks in California. Fort Ord Dunes State Park is a place where residents enjoy fishing, biking, hiking, and horseback riding. The city of Marina attracts many people who want to live an active lifestyle in an aesthetically pleasing location. Many paragliders and hang-gliders enjoy spending time in Marina. Residents value the small-town atmosphere and friendly neighbors who make this neighborhood a supportive and positive place in which to reside.

Both Marina and Seaside have features that attract people from all over the country who are searching for an ideal home base. Residents enjoy spending time outside swimming, hiking, biking, and surfing. Several state parks offer many opportunities for residents to learn more about flora and fauna of Monterey. Marina and Seaside also offer amazing golfing, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Those who live in these cities love being outdoors as they exercise and enjoy the beauty this area of California has to offer. The numerous state parks in Marina and Seaside also provide residents with many opportunities to learn more about the diverse ecological niches surrounding Monterey.

Daddy’s City Diner serves excellent breakfast and lunch. Notable menu items include country scramble, Filipino breakfast, and crepes. Seaside Seafood and Market is an amazing seafood restaurant in Seaside. Fresh seafood is always available, and popular entrees include jumbo prawns, king salmon, and seafood fettuccine.

 

My personal favorite is AKI FRESH MEX located at 265 Carmel Ave. Marina. The vegetarian/vegan choices, quality, and presentation are amazing. The owner takes her food and service seriously and it shows.

 

Tides Waterfront Kitchen is a seafood restaurant serving some of the best food in northern California. Patrons favor the island-style jerk chicken, ahi tuna tacos, and ceviche. Googie Grill Seaside offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Notable entrees include jumbo shrimp scampi, grilled salmon, and ribeye steak.

The Labor Day Parade & Family Festival is one of the most important events in Marina, where participants honor those who have served in the United States armed forces. Urban Wine Row is a great place to learn more about the wines in this region of California. Residents of all ages can find events to attend and things to do in Marina and Seaside.

 

Monterey State Beach has three individual beaches. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the natural beauty of Seaside. Bayonet & Black Horse is a renowned golf course featuring 36 holes on Monterey Bay. Residents of Seaside and Marina can enjoy this world-class course that appeals to all levels of players.

The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District serves the schools in Marina and Seaside. The following are some of the most notable schools here: