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Two-story, red-tile-roof adobe buildings and bougainvillea-adorned patios evoke images of early California at this gracious resort. Life here revolves around the adjoining golf course, spa or tennis courts.

Since 1940, guests have pursued body and mind fitness at this beautiful Mexican-Colonial style resort. Lodgings are in casitas decorated with folk art and bright fabrics. The dining room specializes in homegrown organic food.

Bougainvillea cascades over the Spanish casitas in this stunning resort. Many rooms feature cathedral ceilings, private terraces, and fireplaces. Rejuvenation treatments include reflexology, aromatherapy treatments and various massages.

In the 1960s, a wave of Polynesian-themed hotels sprang up and those that survived have almost a retro coolness factor to them. The tropical decor still rules the public areas, but the rooms are contemporary and overlook the pool or neighboring golf course.

All of us are born to be wild, so put on your jeans and black leather jacket and rent a bike for a day. You won’t be alone: droves of bikers take to the highway, especially on weekends. The backcountry of San Diego County is a prime area for powering a Fat Boy, Road King, or Dyna Wide Glide down the road.

Science can be fun for all. At the Little Learners Lab, children aged 2–6 can play with musical instruments, soft blocks, and puppets. Older kids go wild with many hands-on activities. In the Virtual Zone, the Deep Sea Ride plunges 9,000 ft (2,743 m) to ocean depths and encounters a Giant Squid.

Science toys, videos, puzzles, and hands-on games will attract the kids – and you (see Reuben H. Fleet Science Center).

Author of the 19th-century classic Two Years Before the Mast , a historical record of early San Diego (see Old Town State Historic Park).

Glam go-go boys and girls dance to electronica.

On weekends from April through October, sleep alongside wild animals just as you would in an African game park. Tents that hold up to four persons are provided. Programs include guided discovery hikes and animal encounters, an open-flame grilled dinner, campfire snacks, special late night programs, and a pancake breakfast before a gorgeous sunrise. Reservations are essential (see San Diego Wild Animal Park).