STS to San Diego: A Coastal Escape with Culture, Cuisine & Spa-Worthy Sunshine
One short flight, a whole new vibe.
San Diego is that dreamy mix of laid-back beach town and big-city flavor—with just enough history and high design to keep it interesting. And when you can get there in under two hours from Sonoma County Airport? It becomes the perfect STS getaway: easy to plan, blissfully low-stress, and absolutely packed with opportunities to indulge.
Whether you're craving a sun-drenched spa day, coastal cuisine with a view, or a little historic charm between bites and sips, this guide highlights the best of San Diego for a quick, luxurious recharge.
Where to Stay: Coastal Cool to Canyon Luxury
Palihotel San Diego
Once the historic Hotel St. James, this 1912 icon has been reimagined by Palisociety into a stylish, design-forward escape in the heart of downtown. With 122 guest rooms, Palihotel San Diego blends prep-school polish and maritime charm, wrapped in a moody, youthful vibe that’s equal parts boutique and buzzy.
Guests get access to a rooftop deck with panoramic views of the city skyline—perfect for sunset drinks and light bites before heading out (or staying in). Downstairs, Saint James French Diner brings a clever twist to the culinary scene: think French bistro meets all-American roadside comfort food. Order mussels and a beer in the afternoon, or settle in with a burger and martinis after dark.
This spot is ideal for travelers who want personality with polish, walkable access to the Gaslamp Quarter, and a stay that feels just a little cooler than the rest.
Best for: Design lovers and solo escapes
Why we love it: Personality for days, walkable to everything
Insider tip: Book through me for perks like preferred rates, room upgrades or late checkout
Palihotel San Diego
Other Luxe Options to Consider:
If Palihotel isn’t your style, here are some stunning alternatives (all bookable with VIP perks through me):
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
The Guild Hotel
Hotel Republic
The US Grant
Pendry San Diego
Four Seasons Aviara
Andaz San Diego
Rancho Bernardo Inn
What to Do: Coastal Culture & Canyon Calm
San Diego makes it easy to balance exploration with indulgence. Here's how to spend your time between spa appointments and tacos:
Soak in the History & Culture
Balboa Park – San Diego’s cultural crown jewel. Home to 17 museums, gardens, theaters, and historic architecture. A day pass or annual membership makes exploring easy.
San Diego Natural History Museum – Tucked within Balboa Park, the San Diego Natural History Museum (and affectionately referred to as The Nat), focuses on the natural history and unique biodiversity of San Diego. Great for families or solo wanderers alike.
Junípero Serra Museum – Learn the layered history of California’s early days in a beautiful, hillside setting.
Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá – The first of the state’s 21 missions. Peaceful, inspiring, and well worth a short visit.
The Old Globe – Catch a show or stroll the nearby Balboa Park gardens—it’s all charm and creativity.
Coastline & Canyons
Coronado Beach – Soft sand, iconic views, and golden-hour strolls worth lingering for.
La Jolla Shores – A fantastic alternative to Coronado Beach with easier parking, public showers, and quick access to food. Surf Diva offers private lessons and surf camps right on the beach.
Cabrillo National Monument – Epic ocean vistas, tide pools, and a lighthouse worth the short climb.
Stonewall Peak Trail – A satisfying half-day hike with rewarding summit views, just inland for a change of pace.
Torrey Pines Golf Course – Legendary links overlooking the Pacific. Stay at The Lodge for instant access.
Something Playful: Neighborhoods, Nostalgia & Indie Finds
North Park - This artsy neighborhood is split into two must-visit pockets:
30th & Park Area – Browse Verbatim Books, grab pastries from Patisserie Melanie, or enjoy pizza and pasta at Caffe Calabria.
Adams Avenue Corridor – Brunch at Madi, sip beer at Blind Lady Ale House, and cool down with small-batch scoops from An’s Dry Cleaning (yes, it’s an ice cream shop).
Once a rising arts district, Barrio Logan still boasts powerful murals and a strong Chicano cultural presence, but be advised: it's currently experiencing safety and cleanliness issues. Proceed with awareness.
Classic boardwalk charm meets old-school rides. Think cotton candy, ocean breezes, and a few unexpected thrills.
Total Reset Mode
Spa & Salon at the Del – Beachfront bliss at the historic Hotel del Coronado. Book a treatment and stay to soak up the coastal air.
The Spa at Torrey Pines – Craftsman elegance, eucalyptus steam, and luxurious quiet.
Saffron & Sage – Urban wellness collective offering holistic treatments, breathwork, and aromatherapy.
Where to Eat & Drink: Tacos, Toasts & Elevated Bites
Daytime Delights
Cafe 222 – Known for its peanut butter banana French toast and casual diner vibe.
Wayfarer Bread & Pastry – A La Jolla gem for pastries and coffee worth driving for.
Hans & Harry’s Bakery – Located in Bonita, this local favorite is worth the detour if you’re after classic European pastries.
Madi in North Park – Top-tier brunch with a charming, airy vibe.
Casual Bites
Tribute Pizza – A worthy stop, with decent seating capacity and consistency delicious pizza. (just bring your parking patience).
It’s Raw Poke – Authentic Hawaiian-style bowls in a no-frills setting.
El Pescador La Jolla – Choose your fresh catch and enjoy simple, honest seafood.
Tacos El Gordo – Tijuana-style tacos that live up to the hype.
Humberto’s – Go-to for carne asada fries and late-night cravings.
Evening Favorites
Juniper & Ivy – Chef-driven and effortlessly stylish. Book ahead.
Born & Raised – Steakhouse opulence with strong Gatsby vibes.
George’s at the Cove – Multi-level dining with sweeping ocean views.
Lionfish – Upscale sushi and seafood in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Vinarius Wine Bar – A cozy hideaway with a great pour list.
Kingfisher – Sophisticated Vietnamese-French fusion with stunning plating.
Communion – A moody modern supper club in a converted church space.
Paradis – Global flavor with a local edge—creative plates and cool crowd.
Soichi Sushi - If you're lucky enough to snag a seat at this intimate, Michelin-starred sushi sanctuary—don’t hesitate.
Hidden Gems & Cocktail Culture
Noble Experiment – Behind a wall of kegs lies one of the city’s most intimate speakeasies.
Raised by Wolves – Dramatic, glamorous, and an experience from the moment you enter.
False Idol – Hidden tiki bar serving theatrical, rum-forward cocktails.
Craft Beer Royalty
Stone Brewing – An industry leader with beautiful spaces and bold IPAs.
Ballast Point – Chill brewery vibes with solid food and even better views.
Modern Times – Known for its funky labels and even funkier experimental brews.
AleSmith – Classic West Coast-style beers brewed to perfection.
Green Flash – Hop-forward and laid back. A staple for SD beer lovers.
Why STS to SAN is the Ultimate Work-Hard, Rest-Harder Getaway:
Direct flights from STS: Arrive calm, return even calmer.
No car needed: Ride-share friendly, and many hotels offer beach cruisers or house cars.
Midweek = ideal: Skip the weekend crowds and snag those spa appointments or beachfront tables.
Perfect for hospitality folks: Reset without needing PTO - two nights, one suitcase, and you’re golden.
Let’s Book It!
If San Diego’s calling, let’s make sure you check in as a VIP. I’ll help you book the perfect hotel—with perks like daily breakfast, upgrades, spa credits, and late checkout—so your STS escape feels like the luxury experience you deserve.
Start your San Diego booking here or reach out for curated options based on your vibe.