Plan a Family Spring Break Getaway with Sunshine, Social Distancing and a Ron Burgundy Sighting

Stay classy, San Diego.

It’s not hard to crush on San Diego. With great weather, eclectic hotels and restaurants, and plenty of vibrant neighborhoods to wander, “America’s Finest City” knows a good time. If you’re looking to get away this spring and want to skip the airport, we suggest packing the car and heading south.

ABOVE: Gaslamp Quarter

STAY + EAT

In the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Pendry strikes a balance between modern and traditional, pairing classic Southern California influence with luxury amenities embracing the art, music, design and culture of the neighborhood. The stylish rooms offer ample space to live and lounge. An elevated pool deck keeps sunbathing safe with strict measures that won’t impede your zen. The property also features six restaurants and bars for your dining needs. Standouts include a craft cocktail served alfresco at Fifth & Rose, the Surf & Turf sushi roll at ocean-forward Lionfish and a delicious brunch at the spacious Provisional Kitchen, Café & Mercantile. The spa at Pendry is currently open, including select outdoor treatments to melt away the stress.

pendry.com

Here’s an old favorite that got a major facelift. Great for families, the Town and Country Resort just underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation. The 60-year-old property amped up its mid-century vibe in the best way possible, with a swanky new lobby, hip room design and incredible pool scene (yes, there’s a waterslide). But one of the best additions is the new restaurant ARLO—a celebration of San Diego lifestyle and culinary culture serving scratch-made dishes using fresh local ingredients and a mosaic of flavors from both sides of the border. Chef Josh Mouzakes leads the way with tasty seasonal offerings to savor under the moonlight. And don’t forget to check out the homage to San Diego that unfolds on the bookcase inside. Anchorman Ron Burgundy even makes an appearance.

towncountry.com

ABOVE: Town & Country Lobby

THINGS TO DO

With the pandemic still among us, take advantage of the outdoor splendor San Diego has to offer. Start with a leisurely walk through bucolic Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre historic landmark right in the middle of the urban center. Highlights include the Desert Cactus Garden, Japanese Friendship Garden, and El Prado, a long promenade filled with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. And the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and Safari Park have reopened for business.

Make reservations (required) at zoo.sandiegozoo.org

Surf’s up in La Jolla, should you have your board in tow. You can also swim with leopard sharks in the shallow waters of La Jolla Shores Beach. The nonthreatening creatures hang out in groups in the waters near The Marine Room restaurant and La Jolla Tennis Club. Snorkeling rentals are available at local shops nearby.

Another fun activity: jumping aboard the USS Midway down at the Embarcadero. It’s the most-visited naval ship museum in the world. Be sure to make your reservation at

tickets.midway.org