Seaside is a rapidly growing neighborhood community of Monterey with a fast growing shopping complex. It is the home of the Sanctuary Rock Gym that features over 5,000 square feet of indoor sculpted climbing terrain and a 30 foot man-made peak for rock climbing hounds. Next door you can test out your skateboarding skills at the Monterey SK8Station, an indoor skate park. The newly opened Borders bookstore offers books, videos, CD's, tapes, espresso, light fare and free entertainment open to the public. The Three spirits Gallery is a unique gallery located in the midst of the industrial section of Sand City. Local artists perform musical concerts and display their art in a commercial warehouse. The Seaside State Beach offers a long stretch of beach and beautiful sand dunes. Seaside is home to the newest California university, the California State University at Monterey Bay (CSUMB).

Seaside/Sand City is located on the coast, between Monterey to the south and Marina to the North.