You don’t need to pull out your passport to treat yourself to a luxurious getaway. Instead, head just a few hours south to San Diego, a city that pampers its visitors with superb service at every turn. With five-star hotels, Michelin-starred restaurants, and world-class arts and entertainment, San Diego is perfect for a laid-back, sophisticated getaway. Here are 10 of our favorite ways to experience the luxe side of America’s Finest City.
Sail the bay on your own private charter with San Diego Sailing Tours for a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t find anywhere on land. Captain Kyle Corbett and his professional team deliver first-class service on their fleet of vintage vessels, each of which has been lovingly restored. Enjoy a blissful afternoon on the bay with the sun on your face or book a moonlight sail to see the cityscape glow.
Stay in the luxe accommodations of the Fairmont Grand Del Mar, a Mediterranean-inspired resort with unrivaled five-diamond service set within the idyllic Los Penasquitos Canyon Preserve. For a more coastal vibe, book a suite at La Valencia Hotel in La Jolla where you can sip champagne on your private balcony overlooking the ocean.
Dine at Animae, a glam Pan-Asian steakhouse decked in luxe velvet and gold accents. Executive Chef Tara Monsod serves up flavor-packed fusion in dishes like the signature wagyu, chili octopus, tuna kinilaw, and matcha crepe cake. Or head to Addison, San Diego’s only three-star Michelin restaurant, located at the Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Chef and Director William Bradley uses regional ingredients and global inspiration to craft innovative and artful dishes for an unforgettable 10-course tasting menu, one of a handful of chef’s table experiences in the city.
Sip cocktails on the terrace of Mister A’s, a fine dining restaurant with a top-notch mixology team. Enjoy creative concoctions like Smoke & Mirrors, a blend of mezcal, rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, tobacco bitters, and smoked hoja santa. Come for the drinks, stay for the 180-degree views of downtown San Diego and front row seat to planes flying into town.
Shop everything from fine jewelers and fashion boutiques to home decor shops and art galleries on Cedros Avenue in North County. With more than 85 merchants (and a farmers market on Sundays) to peruse, this charming street is the perfect place to soak up the San Diego sun while stocking up on luxury must-haves.
Indulge your sweet tooth at Extraordinary Desserts, a San Diego institution serving up decadent treats like dulce de leche cake and lemon berry pavlovas. They also offer savory snacks and drinks at their Banker’s Hill and Little Italy locations, making it a perfect place for a leisurely lunch.
Pamper yourself with a relaxing treatment at one of San Diego’s world-class spas. Set within lush gardens, the spa at Estancia La Jolla offers revitalizing botanical treatments like kelp-infused masks and poppy seed body scrubs. SpaTerre at Kona Kai on Shelter Island is a zen oasis for rejuvenation set amid lush tropical gardens. Try the Himalayan salt stone massage for deep relaxation.
See inspiring art exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego. The recently renovated flagship location in La Jolla is a light-filled masterpiece that celebrates its oceanfront location. For a more personal art experience, visit the Lux Art Institute, where small group tours offer intimate access to the artists-in-residence.
Enjoy an outdoor concert at the iconic Rady Shell at Jacobs Park perched on the waterfront. Ideally positioned between the downtown skyline and San Diego Bay, the amphitheater comes alive with regular performances by everyone from the biggest pop stars to the San Diego Symphony. Thanks to San Diego’s unmatched weather, you can take in the surrounding scenery while jamming out to your favorite artists no matter the season.
Play at one of the most picturesque golf courses in the world. Situated on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the bucket list-worthy course of Torrey Pines will have you wishing for another 18 holes. Take in the breathtaking coastal views as you tee up, and head to the restaurant A.R. Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines after for some well-deserved food and drinks.
Plan your luxury escape to San Diego now at sandiego.org/luxury.
Funded in part with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds.
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