Let's Go: Memorial Day Destinations

Memorial Day is coming up on May 30 and the best way to celebrate is to relax at a destination hotel not too far from our home base here in San Diego. From Arizona to the Golden Coast to San Francisco, California — I’ve included a selection of destination hotels for an unforgettable Memorial Day.   Sedona, ArizonaSavor the panoramic views of Sedona’s spectacular Red Rocks from L’Auberge de Sedona.  For an affordable getaway in idyllic Uptown Sedona, Orchards Inn is centrally located among Sedona’s finest shops and galleries and boasts spacious balconies with panoramic views of the majestic Sedona red rocks. You will love stargazing from the guest room balcony under there Sedona night sky or cooling off during the warm summer days at Slide Rock – the natural red-stone waterslide and swimming hole.    Phoenix, ArizonaA must-visit when driving through Arizona – The Camby Hotel made its debut as a new independent lifestyle hotel in Phoenix in December 2015. The 277-room property is located in the heart of the city’s humming business and entertainment district with convenient access to the city’s finest dining, shopping, and cultural attractions.   Tucson, ArizonaTanque Verde Ranch is a true travel anomaly, offering a dude ranch experience with a resort-like feel. Located among 60,000 scenic desert acres within the Saguaro National Park and the Coronado National Forest in Tucson, Ariz.  The ranch is all-inclusive, meaning guests receive spacious accommodations, three daily meals and free access to a long list of ranch activities, including horseback riding lessons, nature walks, mountain biking, tennis, fishing, watercolor classes, and more.    Tucson – San Diego Road Trip Pit Stop: Casa Grande Ruins Add a touch of mystery to the road trip by stopping at the Casa Grande Ruins en route from San Diego. The ruins have stood for over 650 years as the ancient Sonoran Desert People’s “Great House” that was abandoned in 1450.   North Hollywood, CaliforniaKick back and celebrate Memorial Day Weekend at The Garland located in the heart of North Hollywood. On May 28 and 29, hotel guests can enjoy classic dive-in movies at the pool like Jaws and Big. During the long weekend, The Garland will also roll out their beloved street food cart poolside cooking up an all-American menu featuring grilled burgers and hot dogs from 5-9 p.m. as well as a build your own ice cream sundae bar from 3-7 p.m. With true Hollywood roots, The Garland is named after the late, critically-acclaimed American actress, Beverly Garland, whose husband built the property in 1972. After undergoing a $20 million renovation to rooms and common areas in spring 2015, the updated hotel offers a retro-chic, Southern California Bohemian vibe reminiscent of the Mad Men era and old-school Hollywood glamour.   San Diego —> San Francisco Road Trip Pit Stop: Funk Zone in Santa Barbara The Funk Zone is an up-and-coming art district in Santa Barbara, featuring Food Trucks, street art and family-style cafes and eateries. Spend the day stretching those muscles with a surf session with a local surfer, or pile in a family bicycle to cruise down one of the many ocean-front bike paths.   Los Gatos, CaliforniaLocated just off historic U.S. Route 101, at the base of the serene Santa Cruz Mountains, you will find the charming Toll House Hotel. The boutique property seamlessly blends an intimate small-town hotel with the modern character that embodies the Silicon Valley. Take in the ambiance of the historic South Bay town, enjoy Main Street and Old Town filled with unique shops, beautiful parks, historic sites and restaurants, all just moments away from Toll House.   San Francisco, CaliforniaNo trip up the coast would be complete without a stop in San Francisco. Located just steps away from Union Square, Hotel Abri offers an opportunity to experience the excitement of a city with chic accommodations and a lively scene. Foodies can indulge in some of the finest fare in the world while the fashion obsessed shop until they drop. Take advantage of practical perks like a shopping valet and a ‘Tech Menu’ in case you forgot to pack a charger or ear buds, and a personal concierge. In addition to a friendly staff, the hotel provides and Insider’s Guide to the City to help guests navigate the best of San Francisco. With a prime location and funky vibe, Hotel Abri delivers the future of urban hospitality in the heart of San Francisco.  Tiburon, CaliforniaTake the ultimate joy ride across the spectacular San Francisco Bay Bridge and retreat to The Lodge at Tiburon. Nestled at the tip of the scenic Tiburon Peninsula on the San Francisco Bay, the charming resort style lodge is an ideal home base and jumping off point for a Northern California vacation.    Sausalito, CaliforniaCasa Madrona Hotel & Spa combines contemporary design with casual sophistication and bayside charm. The property offers a variety of accommodations from modern rooms to hillside cottages.  Listed on the National register of Historic Places, Casa Madrona offers a luxurious spa, breathtaking views of sailboats in the harbor and the rolling hills beyond, as well as easy access to the area’s most spectacular attractions.