La Costa Resort

I love resorts designed with architecture that reflects the history and culture of the surrounding region.  In Carlsbad, a beach town north of San Diego, La Costa Resort embraces California’s mission-style architecture and has created a getaway that offers luxury, relaxation, and the right amount of California cool.  On the tail end of its $50 million dollar renovation, La Costa has built on its assets and transformed itself into a prime destination for golfers, spa lovers, families, and couples looking for romantic Southern California getaway.

As part of the renovation, every single one of the 611 guest rooms, suites, and villas at La Costa Resort underwent a redesign to help bring some of that beauty of Southern California inside through usage of bright yet elegant décor.  Buttery cream walls reflect the sunshine while white draperies with rich blue print usher in the sea. Many rooms feature massive soaking tubs, the perfect spot to enjoy complimentary spa toiletries.

La Costa is home to the number one spa in Southern California and was named the fourth spa in all of North American by Travel and Leisure.  Part of what makes this spa such a relaxing destination is its ambiance. At its center is a 15,000 courtyard brightened by bougainvillea and marigolds that line the reflexology pathway.  Out here, guests can enjoy waterfall showers, relaxing in the private pool, or just lounging on one of the chairs and breathing in the salty sea air. Inside, spa enthusiasts can find bliss inside one of 42 treatment rooms while they enjoy a citrus renewal exfoliation, caviar facial, or aromatherapy rain massage.

Golfers looking for a challenge will be thrilled to know that the complete remodel of the Champions Course at La Costa will be complete this month featuring natural wetlands, new greens, and renovated bunkers. The South Course received a bit of a facelift as well with the updating of four holes. Even those of us who don’t get enjoyment from spending hours chasing around a tiny ball can appreciate the aesthetics of this impeccably manicured course.

Every parent knows that the most important element of any resort in the eyes of a child is the pool. Luckily, La Costa must have been privy to this information as well because they created one amazing pool area! Young children will spend hours at the sandy beach toddler pool, complete with tot-friendly slides and splash pad while older kids will have to be dragged away from the waterslides at Splash Landing.  Couples might enjoy an adult beverage while lounging beside the resort pool or a moonlit soak in one of the Jacuzzis.

Whether your travels bring you to Carlsbad for a seaside romantic escape, a spa weekend, or a few days at Legoland, La Costa manages to fulfill the needs of travelers with a casual luxury that people with flights to San Diego are sure to love.

Disclosure: The author received a complimentary stay at La Costa Resort. All opinions are entirely her own.

Photo: Sharlene Earnshaw