California's central coast is covered in hotels, but many of them aren't technically on the coast.

We were just as shocked as you are.

Monterey Beach Hotel, however, is very much on the coast — it's even got "beach" right there in the name.

The property originally opened in 1967. It closed for a major remodel and renovation, and is now reopen as part of the Marriott Tribute Portfolio. Located along iconic Highway 1 and minutes from downtown Monterey, it's the only beachfront hotel on the Monterey Peninsula.

Strong vacation vibes hit you the moment you walk inside. The lobby is adorned in nautical designs, with light woods, blue and green hues, and floor-to-ceiling windows that look straight out to the ocean. The lobby is also home to a large fireplace and a bar that's stocked with cocktails, local beers and wines. The latter are available via a self-serve tap wall, so you'll never have to wait for a drink. Though you may have to jockey for position with other guests gathering to watch the sun set over the water each evening.

There are 188 guest rooms and four suites, with the majority of rooms featuring ocean views. Book one of those since that's the whole point of being here. Accommodations sport modern coastal interiors — white linens, reeded wood mini bars, sea-themed art — and D.S. & Durga bath products. And since you're so close to the water, you'll hear crashing waves each night while lying in bed.

But before sleep sets in, you've got to check out Lantern Room. It's the hotel's flagship restaurant and it's where you'll go for breakfast and dinner. The kitchen is sourcing proteins and produce from a variety of local purveyors, and the wine list pulls heavily from California wineries. Breakfast brings all manner of egg dishes to the table, plus French toast and loaded bagels. For dinner, think fresh oysters, seasonal salads, pastas, seafood and steaks.

After dinner, grab a drink from the lobby bar and take it outside to the ocean-facing couches and fire pits. Wrap yourself in one of the provided blankets and enjoy the view. The hotel offers s'mores kits on select nights, so if timing allows you can roast marshmallows and enjoy a late-night snack with another glass of wine or a warming whiskey.

There's plenty to do on site, including a heated pool and hot tub, a spacious gym, a Scandinavian-inspired barrel sauna and ice baths. So you don't need to leave. But one of the main selling points of this property is its proximity to nearby destinations, like Downtown Monterey, Cannery Row and Old Fisherman's Wharf, which are teeming with restaurants and sea lions, as well as places slightly further afield like Carmel, Santa Cruz, Big Sur and the Carmel Valley wine region. 

Spend a day or two exploring your surroundings. The DIY wine and s'mores will be waiting upon your return.