It’s a mere five(ish) hour drive (depending on your lead-or-feather foot) from Phoenix, offers an abundance of recreational and entertainment options and provides a much-needed reprieve from the desert heat: It’s San Diego. This year, we pulled together five renowned San Diego resorts, offering a variety of activities and amenities for Phoenicians of all ages to enjoy. 

LEARN MORE: Ranking Arizona: Top 10 staycations for 2024

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

With a history that harkens back to 1958, the Catamaran has remained one of the most recognizable and top San Diego resorts for decades. Not only is this beach-front property perfect for families, outdoor adventurists and relaxation revelers, it’s also a stone’s throw from SeaWorld San Diego, the San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND California. As part of the property’s multiple dining options, the Oceana Coastal Kitchen is one of its gems, offering delectable breakfast, lunch and dinner items (try the brulee banana, steel cut oatmeal!). In addition to an onsite spa, guests can fulfill all their water-sport desires by booking with Action Sport Rentals offering paddle board, kayak, bike, powerboat and sailboat experiences (as examples).

Learn more:  catamaranresort.com

Hotel del Coronado 

Nestled on one of America’s most iconic beaches, the legendary Hotel del Coronado has welcomed travelers for more than 130 years. The Del caters to every type of traveler through its distinct neighborhood experiences, including Shore House at The Del, the hotel’s newest residential-style offering featuring 75 luxurious one-, two- and three-bedroom villas in a modern beach house setting. Guests also have the option to book the Ocean Concierge Club experience, which unlocks access to unforgettable dining at the coveted Windsor Cottage with an oceanfront bar, admission to The Beach Club, and much more.

Learn more:  hoteldel.com

Loews Coronado Bay Resort

This 15-acre peninsula property makes visitors feel like they’re on their own private island. In addition to a host of beachfront, luxury guest rooms with stunning views, Loews Coronado offers a variety of amenities from the onsite Sea Spa and complimentary shuttle to and from downtown Coronado Village to an expansive walking/biking route and more. Boating adventures await seafarers with the property’s resort Marina and there are several restaurants from which to choose, including the resort’s picturesque Crown Landing Restaurant before, during and after a day of activities. 

Learn more: loewshotels.com/coronado-bay-resort

Pendry San Diego

Located in the city’s renowned Gaslamp Quarter, Pendry San Diego features 317 guest rooms, including 36 suites. The hotel features a signature Spa Pendry with a curated retail space, and a collection of six unique restaurants and bars, highlighting some of the city’s most talented chefs and concepts. Guests can experience modern coastal cuisine at Lionfish; Southern California-driven seasonal fare and gourmet coffee at Provisional; light bites and poolside drinks at The Pool House; the perfect cocktail at Fifth & Rose; local craft beers at Nason’s Beer Hall and an elevated nightlife experience at Oxford Social Club. 

Learn more: pendry.com

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

This elegant, craftsman-style property is a must-stay for golfers, spa aficionados, foodies and lovers of La Jolla. The AAA, Five-Diamond-rated resort sits atop the expansive, picturesque coastal bluffs of La Jolla, offering its famed Torrey Pines Golf Course. Adding to the Lodge’s prestige is its decadent the A.R. Valentien signature restaurant. Here, two-course main menu items are curated with the finest and freshest ingredients (the seasonal Sea Bass and Kampachi are impeccable). After a day of golf or nature walks, guests can relax at the property’s onsite spa and luxuriate with an enriching treatment (or two!).

Learn more: lodgetorreypines.com