L’Auberge Del Mar

L’Auberge Del Mar creates the illusion that you’re staying at your own personal seaside villa, but has all the amenities of a luxury resort. Located 20 minutes north of San Diego proper, right next to Del Mar City Beach, L’Auberge has been welcoming high-profile guests since the heyday of Lucy and Desi Arnaz.

Today, the resort is full of thoroughly modern touches. The decor of the 121 guest-rooms was artfully selected by Orange County designer Barclay Butera, who is renowned for his glamorous coastal-chic style. Book a room with an ocean view—or go a step further with the 114-square-metre Del Mar Suite, which features three balconies, a wet bar, a fireplace and a Roman bath-tub. Step outside to enjoy the tennis courts, private beach path or crystal-blue pool—the perfect spot for a midday dip or a sunset cocktail from Bleu Bar. 

The standalone Spa L’Auberge is the resort’s crown jewel. Unwind in the herb-infused steam rooms or by the cosy outdoor fire pit; indulge in a variety of treatments, many of which feature an ocean element (think a sea stone massage or a marine body scrub). The Coastline restaurant stays on-trend with an oceanfront patio and farm-to-table cuisine.

Incredibly, the breezy serenity of L’Auberge Del Mar sits right in Del Mar’s city centre. While the world might feel miles away, a smattering of shops, restaurants and galleries can be found just outside your front door. Rent one of the hotel’s Electra electric bikes to window-shop your way up and down US Route 101. Less than two miles away, the Del Mar Fairgrounds and Racetrack are perennial points of interest. From mid-July to early September, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club hosts its racing season—offering a posh backdrop for pony-watching. The annual Opening Day After-Party at L’Auberge Del Mar, with poolside DJs and elegant dishes, is worth a visit in and of itself.