25 Best Weekend Getaways from San Diego

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The Mission Inn Hotel and Spa is one of Riverside's most beautiful overnight accommodation options, housed within a splendid Spanish Mission-style resort.

The National Historic Landmark resort is one of the United States' largest preserved Mission Revival-style structures, stretching for an entire city block within the city's downtown district. Throughout the 20th century, the hotel was noted as a popular overnight destination for international celebrities such as Barbra Streisand, Cary Grant, and Ethel Barrymore and was highlighted in major feature films such as The Wild Party and The Man in the Iron Mask.

Today, it offers convenient access to top area attractions such as the Riverside Art Museum and features lovely guest rooms and suites with amenities such as flat screen televisions and private living spaces.

Guest amenities include a full-service spa, a seasonal outdoor pool, and six delicious restaurants serving up a variety of international fare.

3649 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, California 92501, Phone: 951-784-0300

© Rancho Bernardo Inn

Take in all the beauty San Diego has to offer at Rancho Bernardo Inn. Classy yet welcoming, this destination resort offers loads to do inside while offering great access to local culture from beach towns to scenic hikes to hip breweries. The resort itself is an impressive 265 acres with 287 beautiful guest rooms and suites. Guests will love the secluded nature of all the rooms, allowing them to relax and take in the lush, natural surroundings. For activities, Rancho Bernardo Inn is home to an award-winning spa, golf course, three swimming pools, and an excellent lineup of restaurants just to name a few.

17550 Bernardo Oaks Drive, San Diego, California 92128, Phone: 888-976-4417

© Hotel Covell

Conveniently located in the Los Feliz/East Hollywood area between the bustling areas of Hollywood and Downtown Los Angeles, Hotel Covell is an independent hotel focused on luxury and comfort.

Apartment style rooms offer home-away-from-home comfort and an array of amenities that are ideal for hosting short and long-term guests.

Rooms feature stylish décor and furniture, a private bathroom and roomy shower, and free Wi-Fi and satellite TV. The hotel features a world-renowned wine and beer bar, Bar Covell, where guests can relax over a drink with friends.

There is also a private sun deck for hotel guests only that can be transformed into a rooftop event space complete with a full bar for special events and occasions.

4626 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, California 90027, Phone: 323-660-4300

© The Parker Palm Springs

Every couple needs to get away once in a while for a romantic weekend of relaxation and bonding. The Parker Palm Springs is a stylish getaway in Southern California, offering spacious suites, patio rooms and estate rooms.

For a touch of history, book the Gene Autry Residence who used to live there. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom residence has a private enclosed patio, a large living area, dining space, terrace and kitchen. You'll also be just steps away from the resort pool.

The property has a spa where you can book a couples massage and relax in a calm setting. The spa offers a selection of body treatments, facials, scrubs, wraps and packages. Work out at the Psyc fitness center which has a yoga studio offering complementary group weekend classes and private lessons.

4200 E Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, California 92264, Phone: 760-770-5000

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© Georgian Hotel

Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens in the heart of Santa Monica, the Georgian Hotel is an iconic hotel with Old-Hollywood glamour and historic charm.

Established over 80 years ago, the Georgian Hotel offers guests a memorable sojourn reminiscent of another time. Colonial architecture, beautiful interiors, and exquisite gardens echo the golden age of movie stars, and guests are taken on a journey back in time during their stay.

Beautifully appointed Signature Ocean View Suites are spacious with high ceilings and large windows that let natural light flood in.

Fusing classic style with modern functionality, suites are centrally air-conditioned with deluxe amenities, including mini bars, tea and coffee makers, LCD TVs, satellite channels, and wireless high-speed Internet. Dining is an unforgettable experience at the Georgian Hotel, and you can sample the best of local and international cuisine in magnificent surroundings.

Enjoy sumptuous breakfasts surrounded by the lush gardens at the Veranda Restaurant or dine in style in an aura of timeless elegance in the dinner room. After dinner, savor a famous Art Deco martini nightcap at the bar, which offers a range of fine wines and whiskies.

1415 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Phone: 800-538-8147

© Estancia La Jolla Hotel

If you are looking for unique trips from San Diego, Estancia La Jolla is a stylish hotel with a full-service spa, heated outdoor pool and landscaped gardens just 20 minutes from the city.

The Spa will leave you pampered and refreshed. Choose from treatments such as massages, facials, body treatments, and aromatherapy. For ultimate indulgence, book your massage in one of the private outdoor bungalows. After the treatment, relax by the pool. It's easy to stay active, surrounded by miles of hiking and biking trails in the area.

Visit nearby beaches, play golf on championship courses in the area, visit a museum, and go shopping. There are 210 guest rooms and suites furnished with a reading chair, leather ottoman and a work desk with internet access.

Guest amenities include Italian linens and comforters, robes and slippers, and 24-hour room service. Restaurants and bars serve Southern California cuisine that incorporates fresh local produce.

9700 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, Phone: 858-550-1000

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From a casino to a small water park, you’ll be surprised to see all the things you can do at Harrah’s. The resort is known as one of Southern California’s top gaming destinations with more than 50 table games and 1,500 slot machines ranging from penny to dollar slots.

Guests may also unwind at the resort’s signature spa, hike through the nearby nature trail, or splash around the pool complex featuring a pool bar and lazy river.

Several shops and over a dozen dining options can be found within the resort including a taco truck, an oyster bar, and an upscale surf ‘n’ turf restaurant.

777 S Resort Drive, Valley Center, California 92082, Phone: 760-751-3100

© Wilson Creek Winery

Visit the Southern California Wine Country to enjoy wine tasting, delicious food and friendly service. Temecula Valley is a 60-minute drive north of San Diego and makes an easy day trip from the city.

Wilson Creek Winery has a large tasting room where you can sample the famous Almond Sparkling Wine and the Decadencia Chocolate Dessert Wine which is served in an edible glass.

The family-run estate has beautiful grounds, perfect for a romantic picnic. Stop at the Gift Shop to purchase your favorite wine and gourmet food.

The tasting room is open daily, but wine tasting tours are only offered on weekends. (Phone: 951-699-9463). On Sundays, Creekside Grille serves a delicious brunch buffet, complete with omelet and waffle stations, seafood, carving & dessert stations. If you are looking for last minute getaways near San Diego, take a look at the specials & packages.

35960 Rancho California Rd., Temecula, CA 92591, Phone: 951-699-9463

© Warner Springs Ranch Resort

Warner Springs Ranch Resort is a unique Western-themed resort in Warner Springs, set on 2,500 acres near Eagle Rock. The resort was originally founded as a working ranch in the 19th century and has served as a prominent wellness retreat since the 1920s, known for its therapeutic hot springs spa. 250 lovely cabin units are available for overnight rental, offering single queen and double bed accommodations in technology-free surroundings. Outdoor recreational opportunities include a championship 18-hole golf course, three swimming pools, tennis courts, and a full horseback riding and equestrian facility. The resort is also home to the Warner Springs Airport, one of the Southwestern United States' premiere glider ports.

31652 CA-79, Warner Springs, CA 92086, Phone: 760-782-4214

© Del Marcos Hotel

Del Marcos Hotel is one of Palm Springs' hippest 21-and-up hotel offerings, housed within a 1947 stone and redwood building conveniently located near top attractions such as the city's iconic Aerial Tramway. The Historic Tennis Club District hotel offers 17 beautifully-appointed guest rooms decked out in midcentury modern decor, showcasing amenities such as flat screen televisions, terrazzo flooring, and private patios and balconies. All rooms are named after iconic 20th-century film and media references, including the Errol Flynn room and several Ocean's 11 rooms. Guests can make use of the hotel's full-service concierge services, order in-room massages, or relax at the hotel's heated outdoor saltwater pool, which offers fire pits and cabanas.

225 W Baristo Rd, Palm Springs, CA 92262, Phone: 760-325-6902

© Hotel Maya

The Hotel Maya in Long Beach, is a vibrant getaway with a waterfront restaurant. Guest accommodations feature balconies and patios with bay or skyline views. You will get a chocolate-chip cookie at check-in. The design of the building draws its inspiration from ancient Mayan pyramids. Relax next to the heated outdoor pool and whirlpool. Rent one of the oceanview cabanas for extra relaxation. Each guest room has a view of the bay or the gardens. Ask for a room with a private balcony to enjoy the outdoors. Accommodations are equipped with a 37-inch HD TV, free internet access, and soothing aromatherapy products in the bathrooms. The property is located next to the Queen Mary and Carnival Cruise Line terminal and within minutes of downtown, the Convention Center, and the Aquarium of the Pacific. The hotel is located on the complimentary shuttle line to downtown Long Beach, giving you easy access to many things to see and do in the area.

Fuego is a waterfront restaurant and bar where guests can dine with a view of the ocean. The property offers waterfront event space for almost any size meeting, wedding or special event. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific which houses over 500 different species of animals, including pet sharks and stingrays at Shark Lagoon. There are also seals, sea lions, otters, an earth-friendly garden and several permanent exhibits which are fun to visit with kids. The retired ocean liner Queen Mary is a major attraction in the harbor. You can go whale watching or visit the Disneyland Park, a short drive away. If you are planning a business meeting, the hotel has six flexible meeting spaces with ocean views. Facilities include high-quality AV equipment, onsite tech-support staff and a complimentary Business Center. The hotel is pet-friendly.

700 Queensway Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802, Phone: 562-435-7676

© JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort

The JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is situated in the heart of Palm Desert and is surrounded by magnificent mountain and desert landscapes.

Perfect for romantic weekend getaways from San Diego, this luxurious five-star spa resort offers guests a tranquil haven where they can restore and rejuvenate.

Guest rooms feature sleek, contemporary décor complete with comfortable beds in cotton-rich linens, luxurious granite, limestone, and Italian marble en-suite bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and private balconies boasting breathtaking desert vistas.

There is a host of dining options, from fine dining at the Mikado Japanese Steakhouse to delicious, fusion cuisine at the Rockwood Grille.

There are also several family restaurants and take-out options around the resort.

Enjoy pampering beauty treatments at the exclusive spa and wellness centre, play a round of golf on two championship golf courses, or enjoy a game of tennis on multiple grass tennis courts.

74-855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert, Phone: 760-341-2211

Next read: Best Beaches in San Diego

© Bahia Hotel

Nestled on a 14-acre peninsula in the center of San Diego’s famous Mission Bay, the Bahia Resort Hotel has been a luxurious sun-drenched escape from San Diego for more than half a century.

Embracing breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the hotel features lush tropical gardens, intricate walkways, and pristine white sandy beaches. Bahia Hotel boasts exclusive accommodations, modern amenities and world-class service.

The hotel features a variety of well appointed and spacious guest rooms equipped with a host of modern amenities, including complimentary high-speed wireless Internet, coffeemakers, refrigerators, and deluxe bath products.

Premier suites offer fully equipped kitchenettes while Bay Front and Garden Rooms have generous workspaces and sitting areas. The extraordinarily beautiful natural setting makes the hotel the perfect base for a range of popular water-based activities such as sailing, surfing, waterskiing, biking, and skating, while a private fitness center will help you keep fit throughout your stay.

998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109, Phone: 858-488-0551

© Park Hyatt Aviara Resort

Situated in the beautiful wildlife sanctuary of Batiquitos Lagoon and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Park Hyatt Aviara Resort is a luxurious, exclusive golf club and spa resort that offers guests a serene haven of rest and relaxation on Southern California’s sun-drenched Pacific Coast.

Surrounded by acres of lush rolling hills and valleys, the resort boasts beautiful Spanish colonial architecture, and casual elegance flows throughout the hotel.

Luxurious suites are beautifully appointed with lovely sea or golf course facing views. Each suite offers a king/queen size bed, separate lounge area and dining area, and en-suite bathroom with bath and shower.

Rooms also have an LED Smart TV with HD programming and DVD player, in-room dining and fully adjustable air-conditioning. Dining options cater to every taste at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, which has a variety of restaurants, bars, and fast food outlets that offer all kinds of culinary delights. A wide range of activities are available for all ages, from indulgent spa treatments, swimming, tennis, and beach activities to a round of golf on the championship Aviara Golf Course.

7100 Aviara Resort Drive, Carlsbad, CA 92011, Phone: 760-448-1234

© Andreas Hotel & Spa

Located in the heart of historic downtown Palm Springs, the Andreas Hotel & Spa offers guests a luxurious getaway with beautiful accommodations, outstanding service, a full-service spa and wellness center, and a swimming pool. Situated within walking distance of the city's shopping, dining, gaming, and nightlife, the boutique hotel was established in 1935. It exudes its rich heritage in the décor of the 25 deluxe guest rooms and suites, which are furnished in the Spanish Revival and Craftsman styles of the 1930s.

Rooms feature luxurious pillow-topped beds, marble and stone en-suite bathrooms with oversized whirlpool tubs, and plush furnishings. Guest amenities include outdoor gas fireplaces, a swimming pool surrounded by a lovely courtyard, and free wireless Internet in the main lounge. Sip cocktails by the pool during happy hour every evening or curled up by the crackling fire under the stars.

227 N. Indian Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262, Phone: 760-327-5701

© Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills

An innovative hideaway that merges contemporary design with classic mid-century style, Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills offers guests a stylish home-away-from-home experience that embraces Southern California's relaxed lifestyle. If you are looking for a weekend getaway that combines shopping, style and relaxation by the pool, check into the Avalon.

The focal point of the hotel is a stylish pool terrace with private cabanas. There are several different room types, including Classic Rooms, Premium King Rooms, Studio Penthouses, One-Bedroom Suites, and Canon Villa Residences.

Rooms feature custom-designed furnishings including pieces by such notable designers as George Nelson, Isamu Noguchi, and Charles Eames. Guestrooms feature high-speed Internet access, Italian designer linens and in-room spa treatments. Enjoy outdoor dining or order 24-hour room service.

Located at the crossroads of Beverly Hills' shopping district and an intimate residential neighborhood, the property is also near many Southern California attractions. The Sunset Strip, Santa Monica beaches, and Los Angeles International Airport are a short drive away.

9400 W Olympic Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, Phone: 310-277-5221

© Kimpton Enso Hotel

Centrally situated in one of the city’s most lively neighborhoods on the corner of Sutter and Buchanan, the stylish Kimpton Enso Hotel (formerly Buchanan Hotel) is perfectly located for both business and leisure travelers. Offering understated luxury and an urban, chic vibe, the hotel serves as a central base for exploring the city. The Kimpton Enso Hotel features beautifully appointed rooms that have been designed for comfort and style and have free high-speed wireless Internet access, individual climate control, flat-panel LCD televisions, and coffee making facilities. A free yoga mat is supplied in each room for guests’ use, and a unique Wine Hour and Sake reception takes place every evening in the main reception area.

1800 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94115, Phone: 415-921-4000

© Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach

The Deluxe Spa Rooms at the Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach feature a number of innovative amenities to help you relax on vacation. The rooms are equipped with a state-of-the-art lighting system that lets you choose from a ranbow of colors to illuminate the room - from soothing blue, vibrant red and other colors to match your mood. Take a bath in the two-person spa tub by Sanijet with color therapy, hidden behind a shoji screen. Enjoy the ocean air from your room's balcony and get a good night's sleep on the King Size Tempur-Pedic bed.

Trilogy Spa next to the hotel offers a diverse menu of pampering treatments which you can enjoy at the day spa or in the privacy of your room. Try the Soul Mates Couples Massage or the Lomi Pohaku Stone Massage inspired by the Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi. The property is just steps from the beach where you can take romantic walks along the beautiful Californian coastline. The hotel has a stylish restaurant Zinc which serves dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients, including local artisan breads, California cheeses and locally sourced produce. The rooftop Skydeck bar and pool is the place to relax in the Southern California sun.

1221 N. Valley Drive, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, Phone: 310-546-4995

© Shutters on the Beach

Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica offers stylish accommodations, scenic ocean views and a spa. The recently renovated hotel outdoor pool features a spacious pool deck, whirlpool, restaurant and bar.

One the Spa offers custom treatments from Ole Henriksen and SkinCeuticals. The spa was designed to complement the atmosphere of the California coast. Another unique feature of the hotel is a beautiful art collection which includes pieces by David Hockney, Richard Diebenkorn and others.

1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405, Phone: 310-458-0030

© Mojave Resort in Palm Desert

Mojave Resort is an affordable getaway in the Palm Desert. The property has a courtyard with palm trees, a pool and an outdoor spa treatment cabana. You'll have access to activities offered in the Palm Springs area, including championship golf, shopping and restaurants.

The property offers golf packages that include two rounds of golf at the Desert Willow Golf Resort. There are 24 guest rooms, some with kitchenettes and fireplaces. All rooms have television/VCR, mini-bar, CD players, and private patios.

The accommodations are non-smoking. There are many excellent restaurants in the area. If you like to prepare your own meals, book one of the rooms with a kitchenette.

73721 Shadow Mountain Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260, Phone: 760-346-6121

© Westin Monache Resort

The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth is a luxurious hotel that offers sophistication and style at the base of one of the world's finest ski mountains. Featuring deluxe resort lodging and offering an array of seasonal adventures and activities for the whole family, the resort is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Custom-designed interiors combine with modern amenities and finishes in the resort’s well-appointed accommodations to provide tranquil and exclusive retreats.

Full or convenience kitchens, gas fireplaces, private sundecks, and state-of-the-art technologies such as wireless Internet provide sheer comfort. Enjoy a wealth of outdoor activities throughout the year, from hiking, mountain biking, fly-fishing, horseback riding, festivals, and concerts in the summer to skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and sleigh rides in the winter.

50 Hillside Drive, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, Phone: 760-934-0400

© San Diego Mission Bay Resort

If you are looking for a quick getaway with a sandy beach and family-friendly facilities, visit San Diego Mission Bay Resort (formerly Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa). The hotel is located just six miles from the airport on Mission Bay. Enjoy comfortable guest rooms and a 18-acre park with beautiful gardens, lawns and sandy beaches. Each guest room has a large balcony or patio and a 42 inch television with in-room movies.

There is a sandy beach, outdoor swimming pool and activities for kids. You can also go biking, play basketball and work out at the resort gym. The spa offers a menu of international healing treatments and services, incorporating cross-cultural rituals from Indonesia, Thailand and India. The 7,500 square foot facility features 9 treatment rooms, boutique, full hair and nail salon, private men's and women's locker rooms with steam and shower, an indoor/outdoor meditation relaxation lounge and a private outdoor sundeck on the roof. In addition to relaxing at the spa, vacationers can play tennis, wakeboard, sail, swim in the pool and taking a bike ride along the boardwalk of Mission Bay.

1775 East Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109. Phone: 619-276-4010

© Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Whether you are looking for a quick trip, an idea for a proposal, or a family reunion, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar in San Diego is a unique place to visit. The resort offers championship golf, a luxury spa and four swimming pools, ideal for lounging in the sun and relaxing Southern California-style. The spa has a pool with a whirlpool and outdoor dining. Choose from an extensive menu of treatments that incorporate a custom organic product line. Try a rejuvenating facial, detoxing mineral mud wrap or a soothing stone massage.

Spa guests receive many complimentary amenities, including free fitness classes, adults-only Relaxation Pool, saunas, snacks & teas and plush lounges with fireplaces. Guest rooms measure at least 550 feet in size, giving you plenty of space for lounging and in-room dining. For the ultimate indulgence, book one of the luxury suites or a villa.

5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, Phone: 800-257-7544

© Pala Mesa Golf Resort

Situated in Temecula wine country, the beautiful Pala Mesa Golf Resort promises quite a memorable experience. If you are looking for day trip ideas, visit for a day to play a round of scenic golf or have lunch. For overnight stays, check into one of the beautifully appointed guestrooms and suites featuring modern entertainment and communication technology. Each of the air-conditioned rooms boasts beautiful views of the pool or picturesque garden pavilion and features a king-sized bed, marble wet bar, private patio or balcony, and modern amenities, including LCD flat-screen televisions with on-demand movies and high-speed Internet access.

As one of the leading golf resorts in California, the exclusive Pala Mesa Golf Resort features an internationally acclaimed 18-hole golf course. An array of other facilities are available, including tennis courts, a fitness center, a kid’s playground, a swimming pool, and a whirlpool.

2001 Old Highway 395, Fallbrook, CA 92028, Phone: 760-728-5881

© The Lodge at Torrey Pines

It's not an easy task to get a AAA Five Diamond Award (just 125 hotels in the world hold this honor), but to keep it for 10 years is an even bigger challenge. The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, California has been awarded this honor for the 10th year in a row. The hotel is located in the elegant La Jolla neighborhood and overlooks the Torrey Pines Golf Course (the lodge is located along the 18th fairway). It offers 170 luxury guest rooms and suites with Pacific Ocean views. The spa is a popular weekend getaway on the West Coast, offering an extensive menu of treatments and products from the European lines of Phytomer.

The famous golf course has hosted the PGA Tour championship since 1968, with rounds split between its North Course and South Course (the South Course always hosts the final round).

11480 North Torrey Pines Road, San Diego, CA 92037, Phone: 858-453-4420