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San Diego is a paradise in its own right. Many people associate this land with surfer vibes, gorgeous views, and heaven unlike anything else. The resorts in this part of the country certainly go the extra mile in exemplifying the glamour and glitz that puts Southern California in a league of its own.

Everyone should experience a taste of the high life at least once – even if it’s just for a quick stay. Here are three resorts in the San Diego area to do just that.

1. Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

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The Catamaran is a wonderful resort tucked nicely between Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean. When it comes to quintessential west coast views, this place has it all. You are flooded with strong vacation vibes from the second you walk through the front doors.

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In the beautiful lobby area, you will come face-to-face with a tropical waterfall, koi pond, and a giant cage full of colorful parrots. The whole place makes you feel like you’ve teleported to the Bahamas. Looking at the rooms, no choice is a bad choice. However, chances are, you won’t be spending too much time in it. If you really want to live it up, consider renting the signature Bay Front Room – where the angelic view is literally in your backyard!

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No stay at the Catamaran is complete without a spa day. Inspired by South Pacific and Asian culture, the spa offers the works in terms of massages, body wraps, facials, Vichy showers, and hydrotherapy.

On your way out to the bay, you will pass through a delightful restaurant area with a cute little bar and plenty of outdoor seating.

The vicinity around the resort is nothing short of amazing. Right along the bay, there is a shop where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, bikes and more. You are a short walk away from the famous Mission Beach boardwalk, and the all the quintessential beach culture attached to it.

The Catamaran perfectly represents the luxurious side of San Diego.

If you want to explore some of the city’s highlights, the first stop in the Old Town Trolley Tour is only about a 15 minute Uber ride from the resort.

2. Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa

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Park Hyatt Aviara is one of the best places in Southern California to experience the high life. Located in Carlsbad, this resort will certainly show you some of the absolute best the Pacific coast has to offer.

Like many establishments in SoCal, the architecture and layout of Park Hyatt Aviara are inspired by the Spanish-Colonial era. Your stay here is surrounded by 200 acres of lavish valleys and rolling hills. If you love to golf, this place is like heaven. In addition to the sensational feel of the ocean air and astonishing views of the Batiquitos Lagoon, you are treated to a state-of-the-art 18-hole course that has been named one of the top resort golf courses in the country by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest. In addition to a free driving range, you can hone your skills at one of the weekly clinics for $25 per person.

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In between golf rounds, the pools and spa are second to none in the area. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the spa, the entire experience is 100% tailored to your individual needs. Even better, the resort makes it a point that the spa services are not outrageously priced, without sacrificing quality.

When it’s time for a meal, Park Hyatt Aviara offers an array of dining options including Italian cuisine, bistro style food, a steakhouse, and more. Being as how Park Hyatt Aviara is affiliated with the Four Seasons, the rooms make you feel like modern day royalty living by the sea.

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Regardless of where you stay in the resort, you will definitely not be shorthanded in the spectacular view department.

3. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

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One of the major general complaints about California is that there are too many people and too much congestion. If you want to enjoy a secluded getaway hidden in the dreamlike SoCal landscape, Rancho Valencia is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

The vibe here is remarkably low key. Instead of a strong focus placed on being upbeat and active throughout the day, the primary objective is to sit back and soak in the wondrous scenery in peace. Very rarely will you feel rushed to do anything here.

Accommodations represent the epitome of luxury.

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There are a number of room types to choose from. Each has everything you could possibly need throughout a vacation. The layouts are incredibly spacious and well decorated. For a group outing, or a seriously swanky honeymoon, a stay in the adobe-style Private Hacienda will not disappoint. The private pool, jacuzzi, cabanas, and all the bells and whistles will make you feel like a celebrity.

The renowned spa boasts all sorts of revitalization remedies and opportunities for enhanced relaxation, meditation, and personal wellness. Each little detail of the spa is strategically designed to bring out the very best in self-discovery.

Food at Rancho Valencia is prepared with the utmost sense of perfectionism. The culinary team works with a number of specialized farms that contribute to the delectable cuisine the resort offers. On one hand, the Veladora offers a cohesive Mediterranean menu to enjoy while you gaze at the dazzling valley views. On the other, The Pony Room conforms to the American dining style with a wide range of innovative drinks.

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Whether you are from the other side of the world, or simply looking for a nice retreat from the Southern California crowds, Rancho Valencia will definitely live up to the hype.

 

Conclusion

Everyone loves a flashy vacation. San Diego speaks for everything Southern California should be. The resorts tucked away in the nooks and crannies highlight this concept to the fullest extent. Now, the catalog of resorts in the area extends far beyond this list. Stay tuned for more on the topic in the future!