Whether you’re looking for an opulent beachfront getaway or an upscale downtown adventure, the jewel of Southern California awaits. Boasting an incredible choice of first-rate accommodations, world-class restaurants, gorgeous sun-soaked shores and some of the best year-round weather in the country, San Diego is the perfect destination for your five-star vacation. Here are a few of our top recommendations for a luxury stay in America’s Finest City:
Stay
The U.S. Grant
For metropolitan Luxury and downtown convenience, you can’t beat the U.S. Grant Hotel. Surrounded by the fabulous shopping, dining and nightlife of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy and beautiful Seaport Village, the U.S. Grant gives you premium access to the very best of San Diego. Featuring breathtaking suites, gourmet dining and a multi-million dollar fine art collection, this historic downtown destination features style and sophistication everywhere you look.
The Grand Del Mar
This sprawling Del Mar resort features tasteful suites and private villas, two award-winning restaurants and San Diego’s only five-star spa. Whether you’re playing a round at The Grand’s private golf club, riding horses through the scenic California countryside, or indulging in a lavish massage and relaxation package, the Grand Del Mar is the perfect luxury retreat.
Eat
Searsucker
This casual yet elegant downtown restaurant, helmed by celebrity chef Brian Malarkey and located in the vibrant heart of San Diego’s trendy Gaslamp Quarter, serves up unique California cuisine that’s as refined as it is exciting. Serving fresh locally caught seafood and innovative mixology cocktails, Searsucker is the perfect spot to grab a bite before hitting the downtown nightlife scene.
Bertrand at Mister A’s
This place is a San Diego fine dining institution, and it’s easy to see why. Perched on the twelve floor of a Banker’s Hill high-rise, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city and harbor as you indulge in Chef de Cuisine Stephane Voitzwinkler’s delicate and sophisticated take on French and German fare. Bertrand at Mister A’s is also great for an upscale brunch, but reservations can be tough to come by any time, so get yours in early.
George’s at The Cove
Feel like getting out of the city for a seaside bite? Head up to George’s in La Jolla for some elegant California Modern cuisine. A gorgeous upstairs ocean terrace invites you to dine on fresh seafood and crisp, one-of-a-kind cocktails as you listen to the waves break on the rocks below.
Play
Shopping
From casual bohemian fashion to elegant handmade jewelry, San Diego is home to some seriously fabulous shopping destinations. While you’ll find excellent spots just walking through downtown, other great walkable shopping streets in the area include Camino Del Mar, Girard Ave in La Jolla, and South Cedros Ave in Solana Beach, all of which feature cute, crafty shops, fashionable boutiques and charming little cafes and lunch spots.
Beaches
San Diego is a beach lover’s paradise. From sipping margaritas at your seaside resort, to snorkeling in La Jolla cove, there’s no better way to relax and fall into the California lifestyle than a nice long day in the powdery white sands of the sparkling San Diego shoreline. Recommended beaches include Windansea beach in La Jolla, and Torrey Pines Beach in Del Mar which features dramatic cliffs and peaceful vistas.
Nightlife
San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter is the place to go for nightlife. This highly walkable district features upscale cocktail lounges, exclusive clubs and some of the city’s best concert venues. We recommend drinks at Vin De Syrah, a totally unique underground wine bar; dancing at FLUXX, which features a sophisticated atmosphere, non-stop dancefloor and world-renowned DJs; followed by a nightcap at Altitude Sky Lounge, a swanky rooftop club & lounge featuring outdoor fire pits and sweeping skyline views.
San Diego has so much to offer in the luxury vacation department, you really can’t go wrong no matter what you do, but try a few of the hotspots on this list and we promise you won’t be disappointed.
Author: Suite America is setting a standard of excellence as they continue to be one of the fastest growing corporate housing providers in the United States. Originally named California Suites, their roots are in the west coast so we had them write the perfect travel guide for a luxurious San Diego getaway.