When you see the word "inn," you might conjure up images of floral wallpaper and lace doilies — but not here. Rancho Bernardo Inn is more resort than bed-and-breakfast with its 18-hole championship golf course, full-service spa and four on-site eateries. Despite being a good 30-minute drive from downtown San Diego and about 20 miles from the beaches at La Jolla or Del Mar, guests still enjoy Rancho Bernardo's setting. The property's guest rooms and suites all offer views of the property gardens from private patios or balconies, and they also come outfitted with flat-screen TVs and, in some cases, fireplaces.
About 20 miles north of central San Diego in Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers coastal California visitors a hearty helping of luxury from the moment they enter the lobby. Guests rave about the incredibly spacious guest rooms, saying that the deep-soaking tubs, Nespresso coffee makers and rich Tuscan decor makes for a relaxing stay. And if that isn't enough, there's also a five-star spa, swimming pools and a Tom Fazio-designed golf course. The Grand Del Mar also receives high marks for its cuisine; the hotel's Addison and Amaya restaurants respectively serve award-winning French and Mediterranean fare coupled with regional wines. Add to that the hotel's consistently friendly customer service, and it's easy to see why guests frequently refer to their stays here as five-star experiences.
At the center of the Del Mar Village, north of San Diego, L'Auberge Del Mar offers lavish comforts in a relaxed setting. Recent guests say that the friendly staff – particularly behind the front desk – were always eager to lend a hand. With plush beds and a light color palette, the rooms exude a quaint rather than ritzy atmosphere, according to visitors. The property also encourages visitors to take advantage of the treatments offered at Spa L'Auberge and the fresh food served at Adelaide. But travelers say L'Auberge's best asset is its proximity to the beach – just a short downhill walk. The hotel's location also places guests near boutique shops, golf courses and Del Mar Racing track. Though there are hefty resort and parking fees at this hotel, other amenities like a fitness center, business center and complimentary shuttle service make staying here worthwhile.
The Grande Dame of Coronado, this red-roofed hotel has overlooked the Pacific from its beachfront locale since 1888. Throughout its history, the storied Hotel del Coronado has been a favorite among traveling presidents, including Benjamin Harrison, William Taft, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Richard Nixon, Jimmy Carter and Gerald Ford. Accommodations have been upgraded to include modern amenities, such as high-speed internet and flat-screen TVs, and the property offers visitors access to the on-site spa, multiple pools and a wealth of in-house eateries.
About a 30-minute drive north of San Diego, Rancho Valencia is a little off the beaten path. But that's why people love it. This Relais & Châteaux property features carefully manicured greenery, and brims with plenty of amenities and activities to woo any type of traveler. Visitors are complimentary of the respectful, thoughtful staff and heap praise on the guest room aesthetic. Accommodations here exude a Mediterranean ambiance with hacienda-style architecture, hardwood furnishings and colorful design accents, as well as deep-soaking tubs and private balconies or patios. For pampering, Rancho Valencia's spa offers indulgences such as herb-infused body wraps and a variety of massage therapies.
