Unfortunately, RI (and TPS) only earns 5pts/$, if you switch to the CY Salinas, you'll earn 10/$. Of course, for 100+ nights, having a kitchen and some more room might be worth the extra points.

You should give Marriott a call and request a Gold or Plat challenge. That will earn you the elite bonus % a little faster than you would get otherwise. Once you are at Plat, you will get 5pts/$ from the stay + 50% elite credit + 5pts/$ from the Visa for 12.5 pts/$ total.

If you really want to milk the points, you would get a Plat challenge and once you are Plat, alternate daily between the RI & CY. You get a Plat bonus of 200pts for every stay. It's up to you if checking in/out every night is worth it for 200 pts.

Also, keep an eye out on FT to learn about gift card promos. Last year there was the Honeymoon registry gift card which gave a 20pt/$ + 10% cash bonus! I hope they bring that one back. Even if they don't, they usually have a 10pt/$ gift card promo every winter for the Christmas season.