Marina is a small community located in Monterey County, California, in the United States. It is situated along the central coast of California, approximately 12 miles north of Monterey and 10 miles south of Salinas. Marina has a population of around 22,000 people and serves as a bedroom community for the surrounding area.
Marina was founded in 1873 and remained a largely agricultural community until the mid-20th century when population growth and development accelerated. Marina has become a popular choice for people seeking a quieter lifestyle while being located within a reasonable driving distance of the larger cities of Monterey, Salinas, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Marina has a unique cultural perspective blending its rich agricultural history with a growing community of artists and entrepreneurs. There are a variety of special events held in Marina. The annual Marina fest is the largest festival and is typically held in the fall. The event features live music, food and drink vendors, craft fair, and kid zone. In addition to Marina Fest, the city also hosts a free summer concert series at the Marina Village Park.
Marina is also home to a number of unique local attractions. Is a popular destination for visitors, The Marina State Beach, is a scenic beach that offers swimming, surfing, and hiking. The Vkarian Range, a range of dunes that parallels the shoreline along the northern beaches, is also located in Marina.
Regarding beverages, Marina has a winery, Westbrook Wine Farm, which produces wines including the pink moscato, sauvignon Blanc, and chardonnay. It is a popular place to visit and enjoys a solid reputation.
Marina also has a vibrant food scene. You'll find a delicious variety of cuisine, from authentic Mexican food to Asian fusion, to traditional American fare. Some of the highly recommend local restaurants include Jeninni Kitchen + Wine Bar, Flavia's Italian Soul, Del Puerto Restaurant, MB's Arcadia, and El Charro Bar & Grill.
Marina has a diverse population with various ethnicities, with the majority of residents being White, followed by Asian and Hispanic or Latino. Most of the population holds a high school degree and a higher level of education.
The history of Marina dates back to 1873, when it was first established, and until the mid-20th century, the community was primarily agricultural due to its ideal location for farming and ranching. However, as the area expanded and more people sought a more relaxed lifestyle, Marina witnessed a rapid increase in population and construction of homes.
Marina offers a unique blend of rural charm and artistic flair, creating an appealing lifestyle. It is an attractive choice for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle within reasonable distance of the larger cities of Monterey, Salinas, and the San Francisco Bay Area.