It’s an elite repeat: San Diego has once again been honored as one of America’s Top 2 big cities in the annual Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
The prestigious designation equals the best ranking San Diego has ever achieved in the much-watched survey, matching last year’s result. And it puts our city ahead of such renowned U.S. travel destinations as San Francisco, New York and Miami. (Only Chicago was ranked higher.)
The magazine’s readers also showed plenty of love for San Diego in individual categories — naming seven area hotels, five resorts and two spas as among the best in the country.
Most impressively, San Diego doubled its wins in the hotel category and then some: Last year, three hotels in the region were honored.
Here’s a full look at San Diego’s awards:
Hotels
Andaz San Diego, No. 3 in Southern California
A chic boutique hotel in San Diego’s bustling Gaslamp Quarter, the Andaz has been a Downtown institution since 1913. Today it’s prized for its prime location as well as the views from its Rooftop by STK pool, bar and restaurant.
Pendry San Diego, No. 5
You can’t get much closer to the beating heart of San Diego’s nightlife and dining scene than the elegant Pendry, situated in the center of the historic and vibrant Gaslamp Quarter and just blocks from both Petco Park (home of the San Diego Padres) and the San Diego Convention Center. Of course, the Pendry’s own collection of a half-dozen restaurants and bars might make it tempting not to stray from the 317-guestroom hotel, but with all of the Gaslamp’s great restaurants and clubs just outside your door, a little exploration is a must.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa, No. 11
Understated elegance defines Estancia, a luxury La Jolla hotel with 210 equestrian-inspired guest rooms and suites. The hotel is close to such popular draws as the Birch Aquarium at Scripps as well as the University of California of San Diego, but retains the feel of a quiet sanctuary, which extends to Estancia’s popular spa.
Fairmont Grand Del Mar, No. 12
Tucked away amid the natural beauty of Carmel Valley, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar pampers its guests with relaxed luxury. Not only does this sprawling hotel include its own 18-hole golf course, spa and much more, but it’s also home to the celebrated Addison – one of just six restaurants in California (and the only one south of the Bay Area) to boast a coveted three Michelin stars.
Hotel del Coronado Curio Collection by Hilton, No. 15
Now 136 years old, the Hotel del Coronado is one of Southern California’s most beloved landmarks, featured prominently in movies from “Some Like It Hot” to “The Stunt Man.” The Del is also perched on one of America’s most beautiful beaches, and its 900-plus guest rooms, suites, cottages and villas (plus a wide array of dining options) offer something for every visitor.
Humphreys Half Moon Inn, No. 18
Just steps from San Diego’s beautiful bayfront on Shelter Island, Humphreys Half Moon Inn offers a relaxed tropical vibe, accented by swaying palms, lush gardens and cascading waterfalls. The inviting hotel property also hosts Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, featuring a season packed with top international acts.
Additional Readers Choice Award Winner
Mission Pacific Hotel, Oceanside
Resorts
Rancho Bernardo Inn, No. 12
A 265-acre oasis in San Diego’s North Inland region, the Rancho Bernardo Inn combines natural beauty with luxurious accommodations and such amenities as cozy fireplaces and verandas. All this and a championship golf course, too.
Additional Readers Choice Award Winners
Omni La Costa Resort & Spa, Carlsbad
Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa, Carlsbad
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, Rancho Santa Fe
The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa, Oceanside
Spas
Cal-a-Vie, Golden Door
These two world-renowned spas are both located in San Diego’s North Inland region: Cal-a-Vie is in Vista and the Golden Door is in neighboring San Marcos. Both are longtime Condé Nast Traveler honorees, including last year’s awards.