Planning a vacation can be stressful — you never know what you’re going to forget and how it’s going to affect your trip! If you want to make sure you think of everything for your upcoming getaway to California, you’ve landed on the right blog. Here, we’ll tell you three things you need to think about prior to your San Diego trip and take the burden of planning off of your shoulders. So, are you ready to get started? Let’s go!
To discover the best things to do in San Diego once you get here, download our free Travel Guide! This exclusive planning tool features all our top recommendations for local restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
There are several ways to get to San Diego from the destination you’re coming from. The first is planning a fun road trip. This is a great option if you’re traveling with friends and want to start vacation with an adventure. If you’re short on time and want to get to San Diego more quickly, then flying is your best option. That being said, you will need to rent a car when you land, and the airport car rental center offers plenty of options for that. If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, you can take the shuttle downtown and head over to San Diego Prestige. This rental company specializes in luxury cars and yachts!
San Diego is a vibrant city with relaxing beach vibes. It’s a perfect destination for travelers looking to unwind while enjoying the pleasures of a Southern California way of life. Here are some of our favorite things to add to your travel wishlist:
One of the most important aspects of your San Diego vacation is where you decide to stay. Don’t neglect your standards simply because you’re away from home! At Monarch Luxury Villas, we offer the best properties in the area. From stylish downtown condos to lavish villas by the ocean, you will find exactly what you’re looking for. Enjoy a glass of Champagne by the pool, hire a private chef to cook you dinner, and sleep the night away in your luxurious bed!
Now that you’re more secure in your travel plans, it’s time to make them a reality. Browse our beautiful selection of properties at and pick the one that fits your needs the most. Whether you are traveling with your better half on a romantic getaway or taking your family on a fun adventure, we have what you need! Relax in a splendid and luxurious home, minutes away from all the wonderful things to do in San Diego.
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Are you dreaming of a relaxing and fun vacation for you and your friends? If so, we have the perfect location. Palm Desert, California, is a hub for nature lovers as well as travelers seeking to reconnect with themselves. In this blog, we’ll show you how to plan your trip with three simple yet exciting outdoor activities in Palm Desert. Read on, take notes, and get ready for some fun!
Want to know more about all the amazing things you can do in Southern California? Download our free San Diego Travel Guide! Inside, you’ll find our top recommendations for the best local restaurants, events, shops, museums, and outdoor activities.
There’s no better way to start your trip to Palm Desert than with an outdoor yoga session. Stop in Palm Springs while driving down from San Diego and try Yoga in the Park! You can stretch out, let your muscles breathe, and find some inner peace while soaking up the scenery. After some time in the car, you’ll love feeling the fresh grass beneath your feet. We recommend bringing a mat and a reusable water bottle.
Note: The class is free, but $10 donations are highly encouraged.
San Diego is well-known for its beautiful hiking trails that you can explore during your vacation. Palm Desert has some excellent routes, too! Pack your hiking boots and head out to the Art Smith Trailhead. If you want to be dazzled by desert views, you won’t find a better spot. We recommend getting there in the morning before it gets too hot outside. Note that this trail is for more experienced hikers, as it is 8.3 miles long and has an elevation change of 1,465 feet.
Reward yourself after your challenging hike with a nice picnic! There’s nothing like spreading out a gingham blanket and eating delicious food surrounded by beautiful scenery. Stop in town to buy pre-made sandwiches, or go to the local farmers market and create your perfect picnic menu. We love grabbing artisan cheese, warm bread, cured meat, fresh fruit (maybe cherries or strawberries), and mouth-watering cookies for dessert!
Now that you’ve planned the perfect day in Palm Desert, it’s time to find a place to stay! You deserve to treat yourself to a gorgeous home away from home. At Monarch Luxury Villas, we only offer the best properties in the San Diego area. Our vacation rental homes are the epitome of style and indulgence. Enjoy exceptional furnishing, superb amenities, and unparalleled vacation experience. This is the stress-free getaway you’ve been waiting for! Book your stay today.
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Are you planning a getaway to San Diego from Arizona? How about turning it into a fun road trip? There’s nothing like driving up the West Coast, blasting music, and admiring the scenery! In this blog, we’ll help you plan your adventure and make the most of the journey. So, read on, take notes, and start mapping out your road trip from Phoenix/Scottsdale to San Diego! Next, discover the best things to do once you reach San Diego in our free Travel Guide! This exclusive planning tool features our recommendations for local restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
The drive from Phoenix/Scottsdale to San Diego is 357 miles long and takes about five and a half hours. It’s the ideal length for a road trip because you won’t spend the entire day in the car!
There are a few things to consider when packing for your vacation. First, pack the items you’ll need for your road trip. That includes water, snacks, phone chargers, etc. We also recommend creating a playlist that you can blast with the windows down! Be sure to load up your itinerary before you leave, too, as there might not be service along the way.
You also need to think about what to pack for San Diego. The weather in Southern California is sunny all-year-long, but it’s always a good idea to be prepared for all types of weather. Here are some items you might want to consider taking with you:
The drive from Phoenix/Scottsdale to San Diego is stunning, to say the least. If you love nature and beautiful vistas, then you won’t be disappointed. Here are some of our favorite things to see along the way.
They say it’s not the destination that matters, but the journey. In this case, however, we can assure you that the destination will be the highlight of your trip! Monarch Luxury Villas offers a beautiful selection of properties in San Diego that will make your vacation unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a romantic condo for two or a spacious home for your family and friends, Monarch Luxury Villas has you covered.
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What do you see when you picture San Diego in your mind? Is it a sunny beach? Turquoise water? Maybe you imagine scenic hiking trails. San Diego is a picture-perfect summer destination, and the good news is, you don’t even need to visit during the summer to experience it. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the best of what our coastal city has to offer, visit San Diego in September! This time of year is ideal for a low-key, relaxing getaway.
Learn more about the best things to do in San Diego in our exclusive, free Travel Guide. Inside this planning tool, you’ll find our top recommendations for local restaurants, high-end shops, fun events, outdoor adventures, and more.
One of the greatest things about San Diego is the temperate, year-round weather. Although winter can get cooler, there’s really no difference between spring, summer, and fall! Traveling to San Diego in September feels like extending your summer vacation with the warm breeze, glowing sun, and blue sky. Temperatures in September range from highs around 77 to lows around 66 degrees.
As we previously mentioned, San Diego in September is like summer. So, your suitcase should include the following items:
In addition to all of the outdoor activities you can enjoy in San Diego, like soaking up the sun on the beach, hiking stunning canyon trails, and dining at ocean view restaurants, here are some other seasonal activities and events to indulge in when you visit in September.
Now that we’ve got you all excited about visiting San Diego in September, it’s time to make your trip a reality! Find the home of your dreams with Monarch Luxury Villas. We offer a wide selection of high-end villas ranging from superb condos to magnificent homes with stellar views. Treat your significant other or the entire family to the adventure of a lifetime and relax in beautiful San Diego, California!
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Are you traveling to San Diego in the near future? If so, you must spend time in Coronado! This beautiful resort town across the bay is the ideal spot for a relaxing vacation. You can enjoy some of San Diego’s most stunning beaches, dine at oceanfront restaurants, stroll along the historic walk, and more! Read on to discover five of our favorite things to do in Coronado, CA, and start planning your trip.
Learn more about San Diego’s top activities in our exclusive, free Travel Guide. Inside, you’ll find our recommendations for local restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor adventures, and more.
One of the best attractions on Coronado Island is the beach! It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the San Diego area, and when you see it for yourself, you’ll understand why. Take time to relax on the golden sand, dip your feet in the turquoise water, and breathe in the salty air coming from the ocean.
Learn more about Coronado’s history on the Heritage Walk. This fascinating walk is part of the Museum of History and Art and can make for a fun outing. Start by exploring the museum, then head over to historic Orange Avenue where you’ll see some of Coronado’s most stunning homes as well as the Hotel del Coronado.
If you’re a movie buff, you’ll recognize the Hotel del Coronado immediately! Indeed, this was the setting for the famous Hollywood movie Some Like it Hot starring Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis. It’s also the place that inspired the world-renowned book Somewhere in Time. After spending the day in Coronado, head to the hotel’s outdoor bar and sip on a fancy cocktail overlooking the ocean.
Go from happy hour to dinner at the Hotel del Coronado’s restaurant. Sheerwater offers jaw-dropping views as well as exquisite food. We highly recommend the diver scallops and smoked pork belly or the lamb shank!
Are you ready for a memorable stay in Coronado? Start planning your trip with Monarch Luxury Villas! Browse our selection of luxurious properties and pick the one that suits you and your party best. Whether it’s a romantic getaway with your significant other or an exciting family adventure, you’re sure to find what you are looking for.
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If spending time out in nature is on the itinerary for your La Jolla vacation, then you’ve landed on the right page! In this blog, we’ll tell you all about La Jolla Caves and the wonders they withhold. Gear up for a fun day of kayaking or snorkeling where you might even spot some adorable sea lions! Read on, take notes, and book your stay with Monarch Luxury Villas today.
Learn more about our favorite things to do in La Jolla and the San Diego area in our exclusive, free Travel Guide. Inside, you’ll find our top recommendations for local restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
The Underwater Park at La Jolla Caves is one of the most stunning natural features in the area, and it’s an ideal spot for snorkeling. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the sport — there’s no better place to try it than here! La Jolla Kayak offers one of the best local snorkel tours and takes you around the caves so you can admire spectacular underwater formations. One thing is for sure: you’ll make memories for a lifetime.
Snorkeling isn’t the only way to explore La Jolla Caves. If you’d rather not get in the water, you can go on a kayak tour! There’s nothing like paddling across the turquoise water, looking up to the dark, rocky cliffs, and channeling your inner explorer. Did you know that the caves used to be a smuggling spot for pirates in the 1800s? They even have unique names like White Lady, Little Sister, Shopping Cart, Sea Surprize, Arch Cave, Sunny Jim Cave, and Clam’s Cave!
Another fun fact about the La Jolla Caves is that they’re home to adorable sea lions. These creatures are often seen swimming around the cliffs and sunning themselves on the rocks. We highly recommend bringing along a waterproof camera to capture their cuteness. The best time to see the sea lions is around sundown when they come out to feed!
Now that we’ve got you dreaming about La Jolla Caves and all the fun you will have there, it’s time to make your vacation a reality. Monarch Luxury Villas is here to help. Browse our selection of high-end villas and homes in La Jolla and the San Diego area and pick the one that will fit your needs. They’re ideal to unwind after a long day on the water, have easy access to local attractions, and are as gorgeous as they are cozy. Whether you are looking for a romantic couple’s oasis or a luxurious villa for you and your family, we have just what you need.
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If you’re looking for the perfect postcard experience during your stay in San Diego, then Coronado Island Beach is for you. Here, you can plan a romantic adventure or a fun-filled day with the family! Keep reading to learn more about Coronado’s history, amenities, and where to stay nearby. Then, start planning your visit!
Learn more about the best things to do in the San Diego area with our exclusive, free Travel Guide. Inside, you’ll find our top recommendations for high-end restaurants, exciting events, shops, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
Coronado Island Beach is a magical place that you cannot miss during your vacation in San Diego. This gorgeous beach is located near the famous Hotel del Coronado that was featured in the Hollywood classic Some Like It Hot with Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis. It was also the inspiration for the bestselling novel Somewhere in Time.
Coronado Beach is as relaxing as it is beautiful. Here, the long stretches of sand and Pacific Ocean sparkle under the hot California sun. It’s no wonder the beach has been repeatedly voted as one of America’s top beaches by Travel Channel and Dr. Beach!
Coronado Island Beach is a fabulous spot for sunbathing. It’s also a great place to try water sports. Here are some of the fun water activities you can indulge in during the day:
After a fun-filled day at Coronado Island Beach, your stomach will likely be growling! How about grabbing a table at one of the area’s best oceanfront restaurants? Here are some of our favorite places to dine:
Serẽa Coastal Cuisine
For a trendy restaurant with jaw-dropping views, look no further than Serẽa Coastal Cuisine. This eatery boasts sustainable seafood as well as a lavish brunch menu on weekends.
Chez Loma
Are you planning a romantic evening with your significant other? Chez Loma is ideal. You’ll love this French restaurant located in a historic Victorian house. Enjoy classic French staples while sipping on a glass of delicious wine.
Sheerwater
Sheerwater is located at the Coronado Hotel and is the perfect place for history buffs. You’ll feel like a 1950s movie star dining al fresco on the patio, enjoying fine seafood entrees, and gazing at the ocean in front of you.
Now that we’ve convinced you to visit Coronado Island Beach, it’s time to find the perfect home in San Diego! Browse our luxurious selection of villas and pick the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re traveling with your partner, a large family, or a group of friends, we have a house to host your party. Plus, you’ll enjoy high-end amenities and stunning ocean views no matter where you stay!
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Are you planning a fun day trip around San Diego? If so, you’ve landed on the right page. In this blog, we’ll tell you about the top things to do in North County San Diego and why it’s worth a visit. Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo, enjoy a delicious lunch at luxurious Del Mar Plaza, go on a scenic hike, or relax at the beach. Either way, you won’t have a minute to get bored! Read on and get ready for an adventure.
Learn more about the wonderful things San Diego has to offer in our exclusive, free Travel Guide. Inside, you’ll find top recommendations for your vacation, including the best local restaurants, events, shops, museums, outdoor activities, and more.
We can’t talk about the best things attractions in the area without mentioning the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Not only is the zoo a fabulous outdoor experience, but it’s also a great activity if you are traveling with children. Spend a few hours marveling at the exotic species and attend one of the zoo’s renowned shows.
After a fun visit to the zoo, you’ll be ready for lunch! We know just the place to go. Del Mar is a lovely coastal town in North County San Diego, and the plaza is the place to go for high-end shopping and dining. Gaze at the ocean as you enjoy a luxurious lunch at Il Fornario or Pacifica Del Mar!
Are you a nature enthusiast? Then you cannot miss the incredible hikes in North County, some of which offer fabulous waterfall views. Penasquitos Canyon Trail, for example, is only 20 minutes north of San Diego and features a stellar canyon backdrop as well as a unique rock formation where you can stop for a snack.
No day trip itinerary is complete without some time at the beach. This is California, after all! La Jolla beaches are among the most beautiful on the coast and are truly the gems of North County. If you’re looking for a place to go with your little ones, then La Jolla Shores is ideal. If you prefer a more intimate and scenic option, we highly recommend Shell Beach. It even has tide pools!
After enjoying the best of North County San Diego, take a short drive back to your home with Monarch Luxury Villas. We have so many incredible properties to choose from! Will you stay in an oceanfront home where you can admire the sunset over a glass of champagne? Or will you go for an inland villa with lots of privacy and luxury? Whether you are traveling with your significant other or with the entire family, we’ve got you covered.
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Did you know that San Diego has some amazing hiking spots? Some might even say they’re the most scenic trails in California! If you want to enjoy some outdoor recreation on your next trip to SD, how about adding gorgeous water views to your hike? In this blog, we’ll share with you some of our the most stunning San Diego hiking trails with waterfalls. Pack your camera and bathing suit and get ready for a unique hiking experience in Southern California!
Learn more about the best things to do in San Diego in our exclusive, free Travel Guide. We’ve created this planning tool to share top-notch, local recommendations, including where to find the best restaurants, shops, museums, outdoor adventures, and more.
Penasquitos Canyon Trail is one of the most popular hiking spots in San Diego, and when you see it with your own eyes, you’ll understand why. It’s only 20 minutes outside of San Diego, and offers breathtaking canyon views, and, of course, a stunning waterfall. Choose from a variety of trailheads depending on your skill level and reward yourself with a nice break (or picnic!) by the splendid waterfall that flows over volcanic rock formations. Did you know the preserve is also dog-friendly?
Another fabulous hiking option is Cottonwood Creek Falls! It’s one of our favorite hidden gems in the area. If you’re looking for a secluded and unspoiled spot, then this unmarked and unofficial trail nestled in the Laguna Mountains is for you. On top of hiking, the creek also offers plenty of rock-climbing opportunities! The drive will take you about an hour from San Diego.
If you want to check out one of California’s most famous waterfalls during your hike, then head over to Three Sisters Falls. This three-tier cascade is a sight to behold, especially when you’ve been walking in the sun for hours. Note that the four-mile trail can be quite long and straining, with 45 degrees inclines and declines, so we only recommend it for more experienced hikers.
Finally, we recommend Cedar Creek Falls. This five-mile, round––trip hike features a gorgeous waterfall surrounded by impressive cliffs, but the best part is: it has a large pool known as the Devil’s Punchbowl, where you can bathe! Imagine cooling off in the pool after you’ve spent the last hour or so more climbing uphill and walking in the forest.
Did we get you excited about all these amazing hiking spots and waterfalls? We sure hope so. Now that you have a better idea of what your trip will look like, it’s time you find the perfect place to stay. Choose a vacation home that offers the elegant lifestyle you seek. There’s nothing like coming home to a gorgeous ocean view after hiking all day, jumping in a cool pool, or soaking in a bubble bath. So, what are you waiting for?
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La Jolla Underwater Park makes for a great daytime activity if you want to get out on the water and spice up your beach routine. The park offers educational exhibits and a chance to experience the fabulous underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. From kayaking to snorkeling to admiring the wildlife, you won’t get bored at La Jolla Underwater Park. Read on to discover how to make the most of your day there and start planning your visit today.
Learn more about San Diego’s top attractions in our exclusive and free Travel Guide. This planning tool is filled with some of our favorite local recommendations for restaurants, events, museums, shops, outdoor adventures, and more.
La Jolla Underwater Park is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego. It’s a dream come true for divers and outdoor enthusiasts. If you spent your childhood days dreaming you were a mermaid or discovering the lost city of Atlantis, you’ll love visiting La Jolla Underwater Park and exploring this marvelous and mysterious underworld. With more than 6,000 acres to snorkel, you’ll have enough to keep you occupied for days!
One of the main activities in the park is snorkeling. There are so many beautiful coves and underwater vistas to discover, including a 500-foot canyon, kelp forests, and a wide variety of wildlife like dolphins, leopard sharks (don’t worry, they’re not dangerous), and even baby gray whales depending on the time of the year! If you’re not sure about snorkeling, you can still enjoy the park from above the water. Bike along the coastline with some binoculars, or even go kayaking!
Now that you know what to expect from your day at La Jolla Underwater Park, it’s time to find out how to get there. Luckily for you, La Jolla Cove isn’t a big area, which makes it easy to navigate. Plus, it’s close to a lot of our villas so you can either drive or even take a scooter! If you take your car, note that parking can be quite tricky, especially in the summer months, so we highly recommend parking in the nearby parking garages to avoid any tickets.
Did you know that Monarch Luxury Villas offers a variety of luxury villas right in La Jolla? Browse our selection today and find the one that matches your vacation plans. Whether you are planning to visit with friends or your family, you’re sure to find a villa that will accommodate your party. If it’s a couple’s trip you’re planning, Charming Prospect II is ideal. You’ll love the modern decor and high-end amenities of La Jolla Village. Are you traveling with a larger group? View on Rue is for you. The luxurious amenities and breathtaking ocean views speak for themselves.
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