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Top San Diego Resorts

San Diego is one of the nation’s most diverse cities, where you’ll find a delightful melting pot of Spanish, Mexican and American heritages. It’s really no surprise that our list of Top 10 San Diego Resorts is filled with multicultural influences, from Spanish-style inns in the heart of San Diego to full-service resorts with the look and feel of a French chateau – and even a tropical getaway on Shelter Island! Here in California’s second largest city, you’ll find a host of natural splendor, modern luxury and of course, the requisite sun-drenched Southern California climate – yours to enjoy on your San Diego vacation.
1

Pier South Resort

Imperial Beach, California

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+1 (619) 621 - 5900
Pier South Resort is the perfect embodiment of the Southern California lifestyle: comfort, luxury, and oodles of fun!Set snugly along the coastline, Pier South Resort gives you a front-row seat to the majestic... read more

Pier South Resort is the perfect embodiment of the Southern California lifestyle: comfort, luxury, and oodles of fun!

Set snugly along the coastline, Pier South Resort gives you a front-row seat to the majestic beauty of the Pacific. Feel free to experience the sea how you like. Catch a tan on the sand, try your luck at boogie-boarding, or take a troll and look for shells. Meanwhile, inside you'll find more luxury than you'll know what to do with. From your spacious accommodations to the Resort's Sea 180˚ coastal tavern restaurant, you'll truly feel like royalty. All of this, nestled amidst the nature and beauty for which Southern California is so famous. Pier South is the ideal place to recharge both body and mind!

Address

800 Seacoast Dr, Imperial Beach, CA 91932

Extra Stops

The hotel is only a three-minute walk from Imperial Beach Pier.

Related Onsite Offerings

Bike and water sports rentals are available, as is valet parking and meeting space.

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2

The Grand del Mar

San Diego, California

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+1 (858) 314 - 2000
The Grand del Mar’s rich architectural details pay homage to the innovative visions of famed architect Addison Mizner – and the three distinct styles that first inspired him. You’ll find hints of Spanish... read more

The Grand del Mar’s rich architectural details pay homage to the innovative visions of famed architect Addison Mizner – and the three distinct styles that first inspired him. You’ll find hints of Spanish palaces, traces of France’s coastal retreats and even allusions to Florence’s traditional decorative arts at this San Diego resort.

The resort’s signature dining experience is filled with telltale signs of Mizner – and we don’t just mean the shared surname. The Grand del Mar’s Addison restaurant – Southern California’s only five-diamond eatery – perfectly captures his signature grace with elegant decor and seasonal four-course menus. And inside the Mizner Suite, multiple bedrooms and generous living spaces, including a kitchen, study and living room, do justice to the architectural legend of the same name. Tucked away in the picturesque Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve, the Grand del Mar is a delightful blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Like dark wood furnishings and exquisite Pratesi linens paired with state-of-the-art soaking tubs and top-shelf bath amenities – just a few special touches in the Grand’s suites. And onside the Cent’ Anni café, the Grand del Mar pays homage to its European heritage with a palate-pleasing menu of desserts. Savor the rich flavors of creamy gelatos, the uplifting bubbles of Italian sodas and the hotel’s scrumptious signature, the Grand, an Italian treat that’s simply to die for.

Highlights

The Grand del Mar is home to an 18-hole course designed by famed architect Tom Fazio, who has 14 courses on Golf Digest's list of America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses.

Getting there

From San Diego International Airport, take I-5 North and exit on 56 East to the Carmel Country Road Exit and turn right. Proceed one-quarter mile on Carmel Country Road and turn left at Grand Del Mar Way. Turn right on Grand Del Mar Court and continue down the hill to the resort entrance.

Fun facts

Spa magazine awarded the spa at The Grand del Mar the distinguished title of "Favorite New U.S. Spa."

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3

Welk Resort

Escondido, California

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+1 (800) 932 - 9355
Deluxe villas tucked away in the peaceful San Diego foothills, yet surrounded by the biggest names in So-Cal entertainment? Sounds like a winning combination for a memorable San Diego family vacation. But don’t... read more

Deluxe villas tucked away in the peaceful San Diego foothills, yet surrounded by the biggest names in So-Cal entertainment? Sounds like a winning combination for a memorable San Diego family vacation. But don’t take our word for it – pack your bags, load up the crew and see for yourself at Welk Resort!

Learning doesn’t have to be tiresome, tedious or (let’s face it) boring – at least not when you have so many sporting, cultural and historical attractions nearby. And it isn’t just for the kids; your whole family will find plenty of chances to broaden their horizons at this San Diego family resort. Strike up some friendly competition at two onsite 18-hole golf courses. Become a culture expert with a Broadway-worthy stage production at the Actors’ Equity Theatre. And you might just have a zoologist (or two) in training once you’ve completed your tour of the nearby Wild Animal Park. Welk Resort’s one- to two-bedroom villa suites are the perfect base camp for fast-paced San Diego family vacations. En-suite kitchens (dishes included) make impromptu snack preparation and cooking with kids a cinch. Of course, this is a vacation, so we don’t blame you if you forgo the hot stove in favor of casual dining at the Canyon Grille. Filet mignon for mom and dad, chicken fingers for the little ones and an Oreo chocolate cake that you’ll have to fight over, it’s that good!

Getting there

Take I-15 North and exit at Deer Springs/Mountain Meadow Road. Turn right at the end of the exit ramp. Turn left onto Champagne Boulevard. Continue two and a half miles and turn right at the gas station onto Lawrence Welk Drive and into Welk Resort – San Diego.

Fun facts

In 1964, Lawrence Welk went for a drive in the country north of San Diego, California planning to invest in a grove of orange trees. Instead he bought a motel and a nine-hole golf course – and thus, Welk Resort was born.

Related Onsite Offerings

The Broadway Hill Recreation Center is home to two spas, a swimming pool and lap pool, and a variety of arcade games including pin pong, foosball and more.

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4

Hotel del Coronado

Coronado, California

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+1 (800) 468 - 3533
The hotel in our No. 9 spot has been named a National Historic Landmark – an honor that it clearly deserves. More than 120 years of celebrity-studded history, and even a ghost story or two, are housed within the... read more

The hotel in our No. 9 spot has been named a National Historic Landmark – an honor that it clearly deserves. More than 120 years of celebrity-studded history, and even a ghost story or two, are housed within the Hotel del Coronado’s walls. Of course, a few updates over the years ensure you all the modern comforts when you stay at this San Diego hotel.

The Hotel del Coronado has been recognized for enjoying more fame and historical significance than any other hotel in North America. The likes of Frank Sinatra and the entire Reagan clan have returned to the Del time and again, but it really only takes one visit to see why this enchanting Coronado hotel has become an American treasure. Whether you choose the richly-decorated Victorian rooms or breezy seaside Beach Village villas, this is one San Diego resort that exceeds all expectations. The Hotel del Coronado has been the center of attention for centuries and now it’s your turn with the storybook San Diego beach wedding you’ve only dreamed of – until now. Set on 28 oceanfront acres, this American icon is the only true beachfront resort in San Diego – and the only place for your seaside ceremony. The soft white sands beneath your bare feet as you stroll down a flower petal-strewn aisle, your friends and family beaming from either side. And the only sounds as you say “I do?” The Pacific Ocean waves gently lapping at the shore behind you. Ah, wedded bliss.

Highlights

Celebrity hair stylist Billy Yamaguchi was the first to integrate the ancient philosophies of Feng Shui into modern hairdressing techniques and has a salon within the Hotel del Coronado.

Getting there

From San Diego International Airport, exit the airport and turn left onto North Harbor Drive. Turn left onto West Grape Street. Look for the on ramp to I-5 South and merge onto I-5 South. Travel through downtown San Diego and merge onto California 75 Coronado Bay Bridge. After crossing the bridge, stay to the left on Third Street. Turn left onto Orange Street and follow this street approximately two miles to the Hotel del Coronado.

Fun facts

The Spa at The Del was recently named one of the Top 20 Hotel Spas in the world by Travel + Leisure magazine.

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5

Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa

Carlsbad, California

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+1 (800) 325 - 3535
Outfitted with a world-class spa and boasting an ideal location between San Diego and L.A., we think the resort in our No. 10 is perfect for those looking for a little rest and relaxation between touring the nearby... read more

Outfitted with a world-class spa and boasting an ideal location between San Diego and L.A., we think the resort in our No. 10 is perfect for those looking for a little rest and relaxation between touring the nearby Carlsbad attractions. We’re sure you’ll find plenty of ways to pamper and play at the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa!

We promised you opportunities for indulgence, and with a little help from the Ocean Pearl Spa, the Sheraton Carlsbad comes through. Like the freshwater treasure it’s named for, the Ocean Pearl Spa is a real gem. Surrounded by shimmering fabrics, sparkling light fixtures and iridescent surfaces, you won’t find a more stylish space for spoiling oneself. We suggest the spa’s signature Pure Rituals, sure to restore radiance and leave every complexion with a youthful glow. Don’t think we forgot our promise of new ways to play. For those looking for a more distinguished way to spend the day, the Del Mar Racetrack boasts an exhilarating surf-and-turf summer racing season. Check out the Pacific Classic – a horse race that showcases the country’s finest thoroughbred stock and awards a cool $1 million to the most swift-footed steed. For those seeking a more subdued experience, we recommend the Carlsbad Flower Fields, where you can meander through more than 50 acres of blossoms and butterflies at your leisure.

Getting there

From the north, take I-5 South to the Cannon Road Exit. Proceed east on Cannon Road to Grand Pacific Drive. Turn right onto Grand Pacific Drive and continue to the hotel. From the south, take I-5 North to the Cannon Road Exit and follow the directions above.

Fun facts

Bring your pampered pooch – the Sheraton Carlsbad Resort and Spa is dog-friendly!

Related Onsite Offerings

The Spa at The Del offers a selection of carefully designed specialty packages, with options available for girlfriends, couples, bridal parties and more.

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6

Bay Club Hotel & Marina

San Diego, California

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+1 (619) 222 - 5866
Sheltered from mainland California is the aptly named Shelter Island. On it perches the Bay Club Hotel & Marina. If you are thinking of taking a trip to sunny San Diego, read on and be delighted in what the Bay... read more

Sheltered from mainland California is the aptly named Shelter Island. On it perches the Bay Club Hotel & Marina. If you are thinking of taking a trip to sunny San Diego, read on and be delighted in what the Bay Club has to offer.

The moment you step out of the airplane, the Bay Club Hotel & Marina’s superior amenities already present themselves. You will be driven, for free, to and from the airport for your utmost satisfaction and convenience. Close your eyes on the drive, because the Bay Club Hotel is San Diego’s best kept secret. Rooms come with breathtaking waterfront vistas, and delicious complimentary breakfast is served every morning. Children 12 and under stay for free, so bring the little tykes and all their friends. Ok, just your own kids then. Frolic in the heated pool and let the hot tub transport you to San Diego paradise after a big day of shopping and attractions. The Bay Club offers discounts to a lot of attractions, including a beefy 20% off at their own bar and grill. See why the tacos make such a splash in the culinary community, or come for Wine Wednesday for a romantic evening. Perhaps the hotel’s biggest advantage is the Bay Club Marina. Beautiful aesthetics and a five minute boat ride to a fueling station make this both a practical marina and an attraction to passersby. Marina tenants enjoy full access to hotel amenities, including use of the pool, spa, fitness room, and airport shuttle service, not to mention discounted room rates! Whether by boat or by plane, your San Diego paradise is waiting.

Address

2131 Shelter Island Drive San Diego, California 92106

Population

Interestingly, a 2010 census recorded 2,228 people, however the population can be as high as 8,000 during summer months.

Related activities

San Diego Bay is a shimmering roadway for yachts, sailboats and even aircraft carriers, floating back and forth each day. Shelter Bay is in the middle of the action. Learn about the boats you're watching at the San Diego Maritime Museum, conveniently on the island.

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7

Rancho Bernardo Inn

San Diego, California

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+1 (800) 439 - 7529
The Rancho Bernardo Inn has earned a reputation as San Diego’s most legendary inn. With a distinctly Spanish style, remodeled standard rooms turned Guest Retreats and a championship golf course as pleasing to look... read more

The Rancho Bernardo Inn has earned a reputation as San Diego’s most legendary inn. With a distinctly Spanish style, remodeled standard rooms turned Guest Retreats and a championship golf course as pleasing to look at as it is to play, we think the Rancho Bernardo deserves a new title: San Diego’s quintessential golf resort.

There’s much to be said about the Rancho Bernardo Inn, but clearly the heart and soul of this San Diego resort is the championship golf course at its center. Originally designed by William Francis Bell, this award-winning course has played host to numerous pro tours and with good reason - all 18 holes boast challenging, yet rewarding play and stunning So-Cal scenery. They say there’s more fun in numbers, so grab a few friends or coworkers and make it a group golf getaway! With Spanish courtyard-style balconies and fireplaces both indoors and out, the two-story Palacio Suites are a surefire way to impress corporate guests. Even Rancho Bernardo’s Veranda restaurant didn’t stray too far from the picturesque golf greens and manicured fairways. We think this casual setting – with decidedly upscale menu offerings like watercress salad and pan-roasted sea bass – is an excellent way to end a day on the green. Then again, so is the all-new Buena Vista Spa. We could easily spend an entire day lazing around the spa garden, complete with soothing water features.

Average temperature

Low 45 degrees, high 84 degrees F.

Highlights

The inn’s Guest Retreats are luxuriously appointed with custom furnishings, Aveda bath amenities, deep soaking tubs and flat screen TVs.

Related Onsite Offerings

Rancho Bernardo Inn’s 45,000 sq. ft. of flexible meeting space is perfect for any style of gathering, from the intimate to the extravagant.

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8

Glorietta Bay Inn

Coronado, California

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+1 (619) 435 - 3101
Enjoy Old World charm and modern amenities at Glorietta Bay Inn, where luxury and leisure unite. Indulge in the opulent onsite offerings or head out to the sun-kissed beaches and soak in the serenity. Do as much or... read more

Enjoy Old World charm and modern amenities at Glorietta Bay Inn, where luxury and leisure unite. Indulge in the opulent onsite offerings or head out to the sun-kissed beaches and soak in the serenity. Do as much or as little as you want!

Europe comes to San Diego at this oceanfront oasis! This 1908 Italian Renaissance mansion rests in the tropical resort city of Coronado and combines old-world elegance with contemporary Southern California comfort! A stay in one of the 11 mansion rooms - featuring dramatic bay views, original skylights, and stunning antiques - will transport you back to Coronado’s early 20th century heyday. But, just to remind you what century you’re in, enjoy luxurious amenities like flat-screen TVs, MP3 docking stations, a heated pool and spa, and a delicious continental breakfast. And, the Inn overlooks one of California’s best beaches and the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, meaning fun is always just around the corner. Book an unforgettable San Diego stay at Glorietta Bay!

Address

1630 Glorietta Boulevard, Coronado, California 92118

Highlights

The Glorietta Bay Inn is located only one block from Coronado's sun-soaked beach, once voted the 'Best Beach in America' by the Travel Channel! The inn offers beach towels, boogie boards, umbrellas, and other toys to help you enjoy this sandy oasis.

Related Onsite Offerings

Soak in the splendor at the Penthouse Suite, a 1,000-square-foot stay with the best island and bay views in town and a private deck with chaise lounges.

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View call direct
+1 (619) 291 - 7131
Set squarely in “California’s Playground,” Town and Country Resort & Convention Center is the perfect San Diego getaway for families and couples alike. Between its incredible location to its undeniable... read more

Set squarely in “California’s Playground,” Town and Country Resort & Convention Center is the perfect San Diego getaway for families and couples alike. Between its incredible location to its undeniable hospitality, you’ll never want to leave.

Jump into your cozy room and make yourself at home! Rooms are uniquely themed and styled, from traditional to Spanish terracotta, and offer all the modern amenities you’re accustomed to (including cable TV, coffeemakers and free WiFi). If you’re hungry, saddle up at the onsite restaurant, cafe, or sports bar and relax with a scrumptious drink. Then go out and hit the town, where you’ll experience everything from the famous zoo to the extravagant shopping. One thing will remain consistent: the incredible San Diego weather.

Address

500 Hotel Cir N, San Diego, CA 92108

Related activities

The hotel is a 15-minute walk from the San Diego River and 3.5 miles from the San Diego Zoo.

Related Onsite Offerings

Other amenities include a pool, a fitness center and a Mediterranean-themed spa.

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10

Seabreeze Vacation Rentals, LLC

La Jolla, California

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+1 (858) 227 - 9414
For over 10 years Seabreeze Vacation Rentals LLC has been providing luxury rental accommodations all over Southern California. Regardless of the type of getaway you're planning they have a rental perfect for your... read more

For over 10 years Seabreeze Vacation Rentals LLC has been providing luxury rental accommodations all over Southern California. Regardless of the type of getaway you're planning they have a rental perfect for your needs.

With so many rental options, choosing the right one can be a challenge. So let the friendly and expert customer service staff of Seabreeze Vacation Rentals help your plan your dream So Cal vacation. They will guide you through rental options such as luxury homes, cottages and condos. All the rentals are in the San Diego area as well as being on some of the most beautiful beaches. In addition to being on the some of the world's finest beaches these homes will have you staying in the lap of luxury. A perfect example is the Paradise Shores property in Carlsbad. You will live like a king in this 5,800 square foot palace that has its own private beach. There are 6 deluxe bedrooms, 7 ½ bathrooms, pool, jacuzzi and almost every amenity you can think of. If you decide to leave the luxury confines of your rental try some of the activities that make San Diego a can't miss tourist destination. Start with a trip to the cultural center of San Diego known as Balboa Park, also the home of the San Diego Zoo. Stop by the USS Midway Museum for a hands on learning experience in American history. Take a break to enjoy shopping, dining and the vast amount of entertainment in downtown San Diego. With so much to do and a beautiful place to cool your heels one trip to the San Diego area will not suffice. Seabreeze Vacation Rentals is the best way to experience San Diego and all the fun it has offer!

Address

SeaBreeze Vacation Rentals 6837 La Jolla Blvd La Jolla, CA 92037

Related activities

Another popular reason to visit San Diego is the large amount of top level golf courses. One of the best in the area and the country is Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla. this extremely challenging course is a sight to behold and features a PGA tour event once a year.

Fun facts

San Diego is the number one producer of avocados in America.

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View call direct
+1 (877) 992 - 3224
For all of your San Diego rental property needs, you need look no further than McLain Properties.With dozens of properties throughout San Diego County, there are seemingly endless opportunities for you, your family,... read more

For all of your San Diego rental property needs, you need look no further than McLain Properties.

With dozens of properties throughout San Diego County, there are seemingly endless opportunities for you, your family, and your friends to getaway for a weekend, week, or month. While properties vary in size and opulence ($150,000 condos up to $9,000,000 beachfront investment properties), each adheres to McLain’s strict sense of quality. Whether you’re in search of relaxation, adventure, or just an afternoon on the beach reading a book, your paradise awaits you with McLain.

Address

2715 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008

Population

San Diego County's population was 3.211 million as of 2013.

Total area

San Diego County is 4,526 mi²

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12

Cal Vacation Homes

San Diego, California

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+1 (619) 224 - 4643
Are you trying to find a memorable San Diego vacation rental? California Vacation Homes would like to introduce you to their spectacular oceanfront vacation rentals.Cal Vacation Homes offers luxury vacation homes in... read more

Are you trying to find a memorable San Diego vacation rental? California Vacation Homes would like to introduce you to their spectacular oceanfront vacation rentals.

Cal Vacation Homes offers luxury vacation homes in San Diego, in and around the stunning area of Sunset Cliffs. This friendly and quiet neighborhood is famously known for its panoramic ocean views and breathtaking sunsets. Guests get the best of both worlds at Cal Vacation Homes, they can experience the most amazing views of San Diego from their accommodation, while also only being 5-15 minutes from all the major San Diego vacation attractions. Some of these attractions include La Jolla, Balboa Park, and Old Town. Cal Vacation rentals are fully equipped and conveniently located near beautiful beaches and some of California’s best restaurants. The vacation homes offered feature a variety of amenities, including a private pool and Jacuzzi, an oceanfront deck, and a private beach.

Address

815 Cordova St San Diego, CA 92107

Population

San Diego, California has a population of 1.42 million.

Related activities

San Diego offers endless activities for the whole family. Learn about all kinds of wildlife at the San Diego Zoo, walk along the boardwalk at Mission Beach, or go hiking at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

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13

Bluewater Vacation Homes,

San Diego, California

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+1 (800) 243 - 3588
For quality vacation rentals in San Diego, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, Bluewater's catalog is incomparable.With such a huge selection of premium rentals, it's more than likely Bluewater... read more

For quality vacation rentals in San Diego, Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla, Bluewater's catalog is incomparable.

With such a huge selection of premium rentals, it's more than likely Bluewater has a home that perfectly fits your taste and budget. Simply browse their online catalog or give their friendly staff a call! They'll be more than happy to assist you in finding your dream rental. All rentals have close proximity to the crazy amount of things to do and see San Diego is notorious for. While huge beach houses are available, a romantic escape is more suited for one of Bluewater's many cozy bungalows. Inside, you and your partner will find a wealth of amenities and gorgeous ocean views.

Address

926 Turquoise St F, San Diego, CA 92109

Average temperature

No matter when you visit San Diego, you are bound to run into beautiful weather. With an average temperature of about 72 degrees, it is the perfect vacation destination for year-round fun!

Fun facts

In 1850, San Diego became part of the United States following the Mexican–American War and the admission of California to the union.

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