The Monarch house location is really ideal for beach access. Both Asilomar and Lover's Point beaches are a bit less than a mile away. Asilomar is on the ocean side, has great views and tide pooling, while Lover's Point is bay side where you can actually go for a swim. The Aquarium is a bit farther at 2 miles, but if you're up for the walk, it's quite scenic. The place itself is fairly large. It has a nice, functional kitchen stocked with some basics so you don't have to buy a month's worth of butter to cook a couple of nights. The beds are very comfortable. Our toddler enjoyed the kids corner. All around very good!