The Hotel Del

San Diego's castle-by-the-sea is the kind of escape we all need. Step 1: get there. Step 2: follow our lead.

Where to stay: Easy. The Hotel del Coronado, sitting prettily on Coronado's Silver Strand Beach, has entertained captains and kings who chose this seaside resort for its beauty and calm. This Victorian-infused hostelry is the perfect weekend getaway, and you really need go no farther than the Del, since everything you'll need for your excellent retreat is right here. Ask for an oceanview room, since the music of the sea as you awake is one of the primary reasons you're here. Rooms are spacious and done in soft earth tones. Built over a century ago, the Del is gracious without being pretentious and as soothing as a soft sea breeze. Reservations at the Hotel Del can be made by calling (619) 435-6611 or (800) HOTEL-DEL.

Where to eat: The Hotel Del has a number of dining options for your prandial pleasure. Breakfast or brunch should be experienced in the Crown Room, where the regal chandeliers reign over a sumptuous spread. Try the fresh fruit smoothies and don't miss the omelet station. Have lunch at the Del's Ocean Terrace, where the view of the sea enhances the California bistro fare. Dinner is at the Prince of Wales Grill. Dress up, and then feast on fine contemporary American cuisine. The Del's espresso bar is the perfect place for a cooling ice cream cone, while the Palm Court is the spot for a nightcap. Off-property but on the Coronado peninsula is the Chameleon Café, a colorful boite where both the food and crowd are sizzling.

What to do: You're at the beach, bub. Relax! If you come to the Del with nothing to do, you're on the right track, since a few days of sun, surf and relaxation will hit the spot. Swimming is easy amid the soft blue waves, although the Del's two pools are a nice alternative. You can also play some tennis on the resort's hard courts then follow it up with a visit to the fitness center (the spa here offers a slew of relaxing treatments). Want to see the nearby sights? Rent a bike (a one-speed is great fun) and do a five-mile loop around the peninsula. If you don't plan on going as far (or if you do), head for the beach and an easy jog. Whatever you do, be sure to bring a stack of beach reads to work your way through.

A little bit more: If you decide to visit San Diego proper (you can even take a ferry across), check out Old Town, the city's early Mexican village. A stop at the Old Town Mexican Café makes you an honorary local, but only if you sample the wonderful corn tortillas. San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter is a nifty collection of restaurants, shops and galleries, although Horton Plaza is the real stop for shopaholics. Balboa Park is acres upon acres of recreation and cultural stimulation.

There's a lot more to do at the Hotel Del but you'll have to read the story to find out!

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