San Diego

A quick drive or short flight away, San Diego is one of “Zonis’” (as California residents have playfully dubbed us Arizona tourists) fave spots to escape to during our hottest desert days. From SeaWorld to Balboa Park, this coastal beauty offers all the amenities of a metropolis, but with the laissez-faire vibe of a small town.

Stay

When the iconic US Grant hotel, a glamorous and opulent early 1900’s property, underwent major restoration renovations in 2006, it also installed original artwork in every room. Then, the owners one-upped themselves again by recently opening Celebration Fine Art Gallery, a 3,000-sq.-ft. art gallery on the lobby level—guaranteeing the hotel a reputation as a premier cultural and arts destination in Downtown San Diego. www.usgrant.net.

The Ivy Hotel, the stylish, year-old boutique hotel in downtown San Diego, recently launched “Ivy Enticements,” a hip new program that could easily fill your weekday social calendar. Depending on the night, learn Texas Hold ‘Em, pole dancing, drink mixing and more. Or enjoy movie screenings, video game night or chef demos. www.ivyhotel.com.

In a massive comtemporary glass-and-steel structure, the newest luxury condominium-hotel, Setai San Diego, will wow visitors with its signature “Zen Chic” style when it opens in October near the Gaslamp Quarter. www.setaisandiego.com.

Last summer, legendary sanctuary Hotel del Coronado unveiled two new reasons to book a stay: Beach Village (a collection of 78 guest rooms and suites) and the Spa at the Del.

Although constructed more than a century after the hotel’s main buildings, Beach Village echoes the resort’s iconic aesthetic. The interiors boast all the modern comforts you could want, like flat-screen TV’s, fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens. Contemporary conveniences also abound at the Spa at the Del, where visitors can enjoy Pacific Ocean views from the comfort of an infinity-edge pool. Inside, therapists soothe away stress using a variety of sea-centric treatments. 800.468.3533, www.hoteldel.com.

Play

Torrey Pines Golf Course is one of San Diego’s proudest gems. With coastal views and immaculate fairways, it’s easy to understand why the historic course hosted this year’s U.S. Open. The South Course underwent several renovations to prep for the tourney: adding a full-length cart path, thicker rough and tighter fairways. Experience the course as the pros do, by reserving your tee time during the preparation phase for the PGA Tour’s Buick Invitational each January. www.torreypinesgolfcourse.com.

The two-and-a-half-hour V.I.P. tour at the San Diego Zoo grants guests a behind-the-scenes glimpse. www.sandiegozoo.org.

One of the leading arts organizations in San Diego is the Tony Award-winning Old Globe Theatre located in Balboa Park. In addition to its upcoming season’s shows, Old Globe Theatre hosts fun, social events like wine samplings. www.theoldglobe.org.

All over San Diego, the numerous OEX Dive & Kayak Centers equip and charter sea adventures like kayaking, fishing, diving, scuba diving and snorkeling. Whether you need to hire a guide or simply rent some gear, this well-established company knows its way around the sea. www.oeexpress.com.

Dine

The nearly new Bondi’s restaurant in the Gaslamp Quarter was the Lamplighter winner for Best New Restaurant last year. The oh-so-Australian beer and food make patrons feel wistful for the great “down under,” even if they’ve never visited the continent. www.thebondi.com.

The Prado at Balboa Park, located in one of the most ornamental buildings in the park (The House of Hospitality), cooks up a tasty fusion of Latin and Italian cuisine. Executive Chef Jeff Thurston utilizes the freshest Southern California ingredients to create his balanced menu. www.cohnrestaurants.com.