Marina, CA Homes for Rent

Marina, California, located along Highway 1 on the Central Coast, is a small city with a rich military history, once home to Fort Ord. Now, it serves as a commuter town for nearby Carmel and Monterey, located just 9 miles north. The area is growing with new subdivisions and retail stores, supported by an urban improvement plan. Marina’s bayside location offers ample things to do, including outdoor recreation at Fort Ord Dunes State Park, which spans 1,000 acres with 4 miles of shoreline and hiking trails. Marina State Beach is popular for kite flying, surfing, and hang gliding due to its intense winds. The city also hosts several annual community events, such as a Labor Day parade and a Holiday Tree Lighting. Shopping and dining options have expanded, with The Dunes on Monterey Bay-Retail Center featuring big box stores and a movie theatre, while Marina Square Shopping Center offers locally owned restaurants. The Monterey Peninsula Unified School District serves the area with schools rated as above average, and California State University at Monterey Bay provides higher education opportunities. Marina remains safer than the national average, with property crime rates decreasing annually since 2022. Marina’s proximity to Highway 1 allows easy access to Monterey, Salinas, and San Jose, with local bus services connecting nearby municipalities. The city’s mild weather, though windy, adds to its coastal charm, making it a practical and appealing place to live.