Over $250

If you want to stay in the classic San Diego [1] hotel and you’ve got the money to do it, book a room at the
US Grant Hotel (326 Broadway, 619/232-3121, www.usgrant.net [2], $350). Built in 1910, the US Grant has anchored the Gaslamp Quarter [3] for almost 100 years. Inside, you’ll be showered with luxury, from the elegant lobby to the in-house spa to the gorgeous guest rooms (which include luxurious showers). Even the standard guest rooms have plush linens, original artwork, and the many amenities that mark the US Grant as worth the cost of admission.

For additional pampering, make an appointment for an in-room or in-spa massage with Spa Velia. You’ve got all the restaurant options of the Gaslamp within staggering distance, or you can stay in the hotel and dine at the upscale California-style Grant Grill [4]. Whether your interests are surfing [5] or golfing [6], the concierges can help you with arrangements for activities around the city.

For a fun hotel stay downtown, hit the exclusive
W Hotel San Diego (421 W. B St., 619/398-3100, www.starwoodhotels.com [7], $250–300). This swanky, ultra-modern hotel has the perfect location—convenient to the airport, walking distance to the harbor, and a short jaunt to the fabulous restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter [3].

Upper-level guest rooms offer views of city and the bay. Rooms feature cushy beds with featherbeds and down comforters, and are done in an almost-industrial, urban-chic style that echoes the grander decor of the entrance, lobby, and bars. Despite the hard lines and cool blue-and-silver color scheme, touches of whimsy abound. (Be sure to take a moment to read the labels on your toiletries—it’s worth the time.)

But best of all, the service here is exceptional, even in this tourist-friendly region. Just call down, and anything you want will be at your doorstep, probably in about 15 minutes. You’ll find every amenity you could dream of, from 24-hour room service to first-aid kits to Wi-Fi to condoms—but beware, none of these are complimentary.

For a fun night out without the hassle of a car or a cab, head up to The Beach, the W’s bar created with real sand and fruity umbrella drinks to mimic an actual SoCal beach scene.