San Diego’s Stay & Play Guide 2024

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Spanning 45 lush acres of gardens, nature trails, and meticulous olive groves, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa offers the perfect destination for R&R. The Casita Package, offered through May 31, can be booked for two or more nights in a lavish casita, complete with a full-day poolside cabana rental, a delectable lunch for up to four guests, and a leisurely 2pm checkout. On Sunday, May 12, celebrate Mother’s Day with an array of delicious brunch offerings amid the resort’s beautiful outdoor setting. Offered from 10am to 4pm, a decadent buffet features the resort’s legendary raw bar, spring salads and carving stations, and dessert bar laden with sweet goodies. While Mom lounges with a crisp Bellini, kids will have a blast with lawn activities including crafts, balloons, bubbles, bouquet making, face painting, a petting zoo, and pony rides.

Unwind and enjoy the outdoors at Lakehouse Resort with unlimited kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and range balls during your stay. Explore the 80-acre Lake San Marcos, soaking up the sun and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. And, indulge in a post-lake meal with a $50 dining credit, along with up to 20 percent off accommodations, available now through the end of May. 

Over the Top Springtime Soiree at Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is back for a second year through May 30. This full-scale transformation of Top of the Hyatt offers an enchanting garden picnic with flower covered trellises, whimsical floral meadows, and garden swings amid views of the San Diego skyline. A custom beverage menu featuring Don Julio includes specialty sips such as the “Head in the Clouds,” “Bubble Bliss,” “Strawberry Fields,” and more, along with towers of sharable treats, memorable moments, and full sensory experiences. 

Check Out New Transformations
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa has unveiled the completion of its property-wide, $26 million renovation and redevelopment as it celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. A nod to its heritage with historic touches masterfully blended with modern design, the refreshed experience includes elevated guest rooms and suites, and upgraded event spaces by the masterminds at EDG. The reimagination also includes two new dining options with The Trading Post Café, a swanky new lobby bar, and The Palma Pool Bar featuring fresh fare for guests to enjoy at the entirely redesigned pool deck. Guests can also check out the hotel’s new apiary and Chef’s Garden, hit the In Bloom bar for a floral-forward cocktail, or wander through the ten acres of beautiful landscape with a self-guided botanical tour. For added adventures, savor margaritas and Baja-inspired flavors at Mustangs & Burros, experience a new treatment at Spa Estancia, or attend one of the hotel’s many events including Self-Care Sundays.

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa has also debuted sweeping renovations designed to encapsulate the heart of the La Costa lifestyle. Inspired by classic Spanish-style architecture, this extensive renovation elevates the resort’s every element, from its guest rooms and villas to the spa and championship golf courses. The suites tucked away near the Garden Pool’s courtyard, offering a “hotel-within-a-hotel” feel, have been transformed into brighter and more vibrant room offerings while still embracing Spanish colonial architecture with a mid-century twist. The crown jewel of La Costa, the award-winning spa, has undergone a sophisticated transformation, introducing serene new spaces that invite guests to unwind and rejuvenate in style. The spa’s updates include three luxurious new salt rooms for unwinding and decompressing, refurbished steam rooms with new aromatherapy features, and new state-of-the-art equipment. 

Head North
Oceanfront Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes invites guests to revel in a seamless blend of luxury, relaxation, unparalleled service, and awe-inspiring coastal vistas while enjoying the resort’s celebrated culinary events. Sips and Sunsets, offered every Friday and Saturday from 5 to 8pm, presents guests with an unparalleled experience to enjoy wine selections by the glass and/or bottle, a seasonal charcuterie grazing board, panoramic ocean views, and fireside live music. Every Sunday from 3 to 7pm, Slow Smoked Sundays feature live blues and country music, and a feast of slow smoked entrees, savory sides, and sweet desserts. Kicking off daily on May 26, Veuve Clicquot Terrace takes place on the resort’s expansive Lobby Bar Terrace with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Whether you’re relaxing in the afternoon sun or marveling at the glorious sunset, Champagne lovers may indulge in elegant Reims-based Veuve Clicquot Champagnes — each with its own personality — served by the glass or the bottle. Additionally, the resort will host a Food and Wine Festival on May 25, showcasing the finest culinary creations paired with exquisite wines.

Through May 16, The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel is offering its special Spring ParTea afternoon tea at Raya in collaboration with the Parisian tea brand, Palais des Thés. The whimsical twist to the timeless tradition of afternoon tea features a thoughtfully curated loose-leaf tea collection, savory canapés, sweet bites, and tea-infused cocktails — paired with Raya’s panoramic ocean views with floor-to-ceiling windows. The Ritz-Carlton is also offering Mother’s Day teas.

Endless Summer
The Del Mar Village Association officially kicks off summer in Southern California with its 20th annual Del Mar Summer Solstice event on June 20 from 5pm to 8pm. At Powerhouse Park, the event will feature elevated, hearty bites from Del Mar Village restaurants, delicious craft cocktails, wine, and beer from local and nationally recognized brands, all set next to the Pacific Ocean. Beyond the stellar food and beverage lineup, attendees will sway to the island-style music of celebrated local performer Ben Benavente, accompanied by the Stateside Bruddahs. Net proceeds go directly to DMVA, allowing the organization to further its essential nonprofit mission to bolster and sustain the small businesses that form the heart of the Del Mar community.

On June 21 at 6pm, Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa invites guests and locals alike to its third annual Agave Fest, featuring a curated selection of 100 percent agave-based tequila and mezcal spirits, poured directly from experts from a range of esteemed distilleries. Paired to complement the bold and complex tastes of tequila and mezcal offerings, guests can also indulge in authentic Baja-inspired cuisine including fresh ceviche and savory street tacos. The event also includes live entertainment, performances, and raffle giveaways. 

That same evening from 7pm to 10pm, Kona Kai San Diego is hosting its fourth annual Luau Party, a journey of experiences that pay homage to the beloved Hawaiian culture. The evening will begin with a welcome drink and traditional lei greeting, followed by live performances from Te Rahiti Nui and Taupou Samoa. Guests can celebrate the spirit of Aloha with Polynesian-inspired menu offerings such as Kalua Suckling Pig, Huli Huli Chicken, Traditional Spam Musubi, and Lomi Lomi Salmon. 

Back by popular demand, L’Auberge Del Mar’s annual Opening Day After Party returns on July 20 from 5pm to midnight to keep the festivities going after the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club launches the summer racing season. The celebration will feature divine food and cocktails, live music performed by resident DJs, dancing, and exclusive rentable cabanas in the heart of the action or perched overlooking the party from above. An Opening Day After Party Package includes two complimentary tickets and luxe accommodations.