Omni La Costa Resort Carlsbad – Hot Air Balloon Experience

I love hotels that offer fun entertainment to their guests and also bring in locals to enjoy the facilities. Last weekend, Greg and I were invited to the Hot Air Balloon Experience at Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad. The Take a Flight event included several short hot air balloon flights over the property with Compass Balloons, an exquisite wine flight by the Trefethen Family Vineyard in Napa Valley, and a delicious selection of hors d’oeuvres. The Hot Air Balloon FlightNeither Greg nor I had ever been on a hot air balloon, so this was an exciting “first” for us. We were complete noobs, so we had no idea that we had to climb into the basket. Had I known, I would have definitely not worn a long dress and high heels. So keep that in mind, when you plan for your hot air balloon experience. The balloon was tethered to two trucks on the golf course and because of the wind, the first ride was a bit choppy due to the wind. Our later ride was a lot smoother. Our balloon captain told us that untethered flights are a lot smoother, as the balloon is restricted in its movement and can just float with the wind. The company Compass Balloons offers balloon rides in Del Mar and Temecula at sunrise and sunset. The price varies depending on location, duration, and if it is a shared or a private flight. Trefethen Family Vineyard Wine FlightThe Trefethen Family Vineyard is located in Napa Valley and as the name suggests, is family-owned. They produce estate wines of the highest quality for over 3 generations now. In 1979, they won “World’s Best Chardonnay” and in 2020, their Cabernet Sauvignon was named “Best in Show” by Decanter World Wine Awards. I personally really enjoyed the Merlot called “Dragon Tooth”, which was exceptionally smooth, fruity, and well-rounded. Omni La Costa Resort CarlsbadThe only thing that would have made this date even more special, would have been staying the night (or weekend) at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad for a little Staycation. The luxury hotel offers so much to do, I could see myself spending a month here without getting bored. 7 restaurants, golf, a luxury spa, and fun events like the Take Flight with La Costa make this resort such a perfect choice for a romantic getaway. Greg and I had a fantastic time at the Take a Flight event and it was exciting to experience our first sunset balloon flight, sip some delicious wines, and explore the beautiful La Costa Resort in Carlsbad. Last Updated on May 2, 2022 by sandiegoexplorerThe post Omni La Costa Resort Carlsbad – Hot Air Balloon Experience appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

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Best Mother’s Day Brunch in San Diego – Make Some Special Memories This Year

“A mother is she who can take the place of all others but whose place no one else can take”Cardinal Mermillod. There is no greater truth.Mother’s Day. The May holiday when families honor their mothers. This year Mother’s Day falls on the 8th, 2022. Some of the most popular ways to celebrate the mom in your life is by sending a beautiful bouquet of flowers, or better yet, taking her out for a fancy brunch. After all, she deserves that special attention surrounded by those she loves.We’ve pulled together some of the best Mother’s Day brunches in San Diego. Each of these restaurants has been confirmed to be hosting a special Mother’s Day brunch on May 8th. But exact menus, times, and prices are yet to be finalized, and reservations are not yet open. These restaurants assured us they will soon be taking reservations. So, we advise that once you choose the perfect place to celebrate mom, check the website and information we’ve provided. Most venues offer online reservations. Go for it, as mom will love you even more after you treat her to a very special Mother’s Day!THE PRADO AT BALBOA PARK Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101Phone: (619) 557-9441WebsiteLocated in the House of Hospitality in the center of Balboa Park, The Prado is a stunning eatery surrounded by San Diego history and magnificent architecture.Each Mother’s Day, The Prado offers an impressive champagne special brunch buffet where diners can eat inside the Spanish-inspired restaurant or on its picturesque outdoor patio. If the brunch menu is anything like the Easter events we’ve experienced in the past, guests can expect numerous displays including an omelet station, classic breakfast treasures like eggs benedict, dim sum, chilled seafood, a carving station, desserts, and much more. The price will include both champagne and bottomless mimosas.MEDITERRANEAN ROOM AT LA VALENCIA LA JOLLA  Address: 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037Phone: (866) 905-6269WebsiteAn iconic destination since 1926, the luxurious La Valencia Hotel has welcomed world-renowned guests including the Hollywood elite for years.This crown jewel of the La Jolla waterfront exudes class, elegance, and sports one of the most stunning coastal views in Southern California. La Valencia’s ocean-view restaurant, the Mediterranean Room towers over the Pacific from a majestic bluff. Mediterranean cuisine along with seasonally-driven locally-sourced ingredients and fresh-caught seafood are features of its impressive menu. This year’s Mother’s Day brunch will feature a prix fixe three-course meal yet to be determined. If you’re looking for ocean views to die for and high-quality cuisine, the Mediterranean Room is a perfect choice.ADELAIDE AT L’AUBERGE DEL MARAddress: 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014Phone: (858) 386-1336WebsiteOften called a hidden gem in the seaside village of Del Mar, L’ Auberge is located on a hill overlooking the picturesque Pacific Coast. Its signature restaurant, Adelaide is local ingredient-driven, celebrating the bounty of the ocean. With dramatic ocean vistas and an impressive setting overlooking the pool, dining here is a relaxed, feel-good experience. Mother’s Day will showcase an impressive brunch including SoCal favorites like avocado toast, chilled offerings, classic breakfast gems like Brioche French toast, savory hot dishes, a carvery, signature dishes, and desserts. Guaranteed, mom will love it!OCEANA COASTAL KITCHEN- MISSION BAY Address: 3999 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109Phone: (959) 539-8635WebsiteOceana Coastal KitchenThe signature restaurant at the Catamaran Resort Hotel, Oceana Coastal Kitchen offers incredibly tasty chef-driven California cuisine with panoramic views of the beach and Mission Bay. Both indoor and outdoor dining (on a heated covered patio) are available options.Though a Mother’s Day menu or buffet has not yet been finalized, Sunday brunch here has long been one of our favorites with a prix fixe menu complete with champagne and mimosas. We love the cocktail crab claws, smoked salmon, and sushi, along with main entree favorites like herb-roasted prime rib and Norwegian ocean trout. A selection of mini pastries rounds out this impressively phenomenal menu. And did I mention those stunning views?CROWN ROOM -HOTEL DEL CORONADOAddress: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118Phone: (619) 522-8490WebsiteHotel Del Coronado, San DiegoSan Diego’s priceless quintessential turn-of-the-century gem, the Hotel Del Coronado stands sentinel over a mile and a half of wide pristine glittery white sand beach surrounded by palms fronting the azure waters of the Pacific.Sunday brunch has long been an iconic classic event at the Hotel Del. And though both outdoor restaurants, Serẽa and Sheerwater offer Sunday and holiday brunches, this year we’re told the Hotel Del is bringing back the grand duchess of all brunches for Easter and Mother’s Day – the Crown Room Brunch.If you’ve never dined at the Crown Room, we guarantee it’s an experience you won’t forget. Aptly named for its crowned chandeliers designed by Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum, the world-famous Crown Room plays host to an elegant, over-the-top and unforgettable spectacular dining experience.  Mom will feel like royalty.WESTGATE ROOM RESTAURANT – GASLAMP Address: 1055 2nd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101Phone: (619) 238-1818WebsiteSurrounded by a winding staircase, crystal chandeliers, imported Milan glass, and priceless treasures that appear as if they came from the Palace of Versailles, the Westgate Hotel in the Gaslamp District is steeped in tradition and feels like a step back in time. The hotel is renowned for its elegant weekend teas, but it’s also recognized for its incredible weekend brunch featuring à la carte choices. Time-honored brunch favorites and the magnificent environment set the stage for a superb dining experience. And this year, the Westgate Room will host a Mother’s Day brunch fit for a queen. We can’t wait to see what’s on the menu!AMAYA- FAIRMONT GRAND DEL MAR Address: 5300 Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego, CA 92130Phone: (858) 590-1113WebsiteAnother stunning San Diego property, the Fairmont Del Mar certainly offers a grand experience whether you stay or dine at this luxury resort.Gracious and elegant, Amaya treats guests to contemporary California-bistro cuisine in a glamorous throw-back Old-World setting. Menus feature the best of the area’s locally sourced-ingredients and seasonal farm-to-market and sea-to-table offerings.Amaya has a delightful brunch menu with classic breakfast staples and delectable sides, light bites, midday mains, and finishing off with sweet treats. Patrons can add champagne or wine by the glass or bottle, or other libations. A classy choice for Mother’s Day.FLAGSHIP MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH CRUISEAddress: 990 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101Phone: (619) 234-4111WebsiteHow about taking mom out for a two-hour harbor cruise and a lovely brunch? Flagship Cruises is offering a special Mother’s Day brunch afloat on sparkling San Diego Bay covering 25 miles of scenic coastline. The menu will include brunch favorites from poached eggs benedict and chicken and waffles to chilaquiles, jumbo shrimp Louie salad, artichoke lump crab cakes, and bananas foster French toast. The meal is accompanied by seasonal fruit, assorted pastries, and bottomless mimosas. You can toast your mother, life, and being on the water on that special day. Two departures are available for booking, and both indoor and outdoor seating is available.Whatever your brunch plans for Mother’s Day, enjoy and be sure to hug that special lady in your life!Best Mother’s Day Brunch San Diego – Pin for Later: Last Updated on April 14, 2022 by sandiegoexplorerThe post Best Mother’s Day Brunch in San Diego – Make Some Special Memories This Year appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

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Amazing Things to Do in Oceanside, California

A seaside oasis of outdoor recreation and beautiful sandy beaches. This is Oceanside, San Diego County’s northern-most Pacific Ocean coastal town. So much positive change has come to this beachy paradise in the last few years, that it truly puts the “oh….” in Oceanside! And it’s considered San Diego’s hottest beach town yet very family-friendly to boot. With an average year-round temperature of 72 degrees, three-and-a-half miles of sandy beaches, world-class surf conditions, a historic wooden pier, and a Cape Cod-style harbor village, what’s not to love about this quintessential Southern California coastal community? So many things to do in Oceanside will keep you busy for a day trip, or better yet, a weekend getaway. The town’s laid-back, “live and let live” attitude sets the stage for a relaxing, historic, cultural, fun-filled coastal escape. And believe me, the food and brew scene alone is well worth the visit. What is there to do here? The better question is, how will you fit it all in? No worries, however, as this local San Diego writer who happens to love this town is here to suggest the not-to-be-missed jewels of Oceanside.Amazing Things to Do in OceansideOceanside PierThere’s no better place to watch surfers and local fishermen than the bustling Oceanside Pier, the longest over-water wooden pier on the West Coast. 1,942 feet long, this easily walkable promenade is ideal for catching the sun disappearing over the horizon and lighting up the evening sky with a myriad of colors.Plan to spend some time exploring the oceanfront strand, as Wheel Fun Rentals located just below the pier has a great selection of traditional, tandem, and surrey bikes. You can choose to ride along the promenade or pedal all the way to Oceanside Harbor. But guaranteed, you’ll be stopping for spectacular photo moments, and you’ll love the pier views from multiple vantage points.Head to an Oceanside BeachOceanside’s beaches are some of the widest in San Diego County. With lots of shorelines, there are plenty of places to find your ideal spot. Beach days on Harbor Beach and Oceanside Beach include more than just swimming, playing in the ocean, and building sandcastles. Activities like Frisbee, volleyball, and kite flying are immensely popular. If you’re into bringing your own food, Harbor Beach has picnic tables and barbeque grills. And of course, there’s nothing like the warmth and distinctive scent of a beach bonfire.  Just add the S’mores and you’ve got a real-deal SoCal beach experience.Oceanside is home to countless professional and leisure surfers for whom surfing is more than a passion; it’s a way of life. Known as one of Southern California’s most consistent surf spots, the city has hosted numerous surfing competitions. Its southwest-facing coastline and perfect ocean swells create world-class surf conditions with strong appeal to wave riders of all ages.Oceanside Harbor and VillageOne of the most photographed spots in this coastal town, the Oceanside Harbor and Village is located just a few miles north of the pier. The picturesque New England-inspired harbor village is absolutely charming.You’ll find local seafood restaurants serving as no surprise, the freshest of fish and seafood. One eatery even sports its own lighthouse. And the village’s boutique shops offer goods from surfing gear and swimwear to an array of beach and nautical items. Whale-Watching-Dolphin TripsIf you’ve never been out to the open Pacific seas in search of dolphins and whales in Southern California, you have to do it. Oceanside Adventures, located in the harbor offers guided private and small group catamaran tours. These sailings cover the history of Oceanside and its fascinating marine life while heading to areas where the dolphins and whales are most prominent. All throughout the year, different types of whales can be spotted along with turtles, sharks, sea lions, and sea birds. And the best part of taking these trips is that if no whales are spotted on your outing, Oceanside Adventures will take you out again at a future date at no cost. We were fortunate to see many whales on our last year’s trip. Get your tickets here>>Other Recreational Water FunDeep-sea sport fishing trips also depart from the Oceanside Marina Harbor. Oceanside Boat Rentals here offer a myriad of water activities to choose from. Kayaks, jet skis, and stand-up paddleboards are available as well as sailboats, electric boats, and powerboats. Our first time renting an 18-foot Duffy-boat electric yacht was a great experience. The boats are in top-notch condition and we couldn’t have picked a more picture-perfect day to relax and explore the bay and waterfront.California Surf MuseumAddress: 312 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054Phone: (760) 721-6876WebsiteOceanside’s surf culture is joyfully celebrated at the California Surf Museum, which chronicles the surfing lifestyle from its origins to modern times with an impressive collection of rotating exhibits and surf memorabilia. Though the museum isn’t large, it’s certainly big on surfing history, past and present sports culture, and impressive displays. And if this museum inspired you to try surfing yourself, you can book surf lessons at one of the best surf spots in the world. The museum’s most popular exhibit, Courageous Inspiration, relates the heroic story of professional surfer, Bethany Hamilton. On display are her shark-bitten surfboard and the bathing suit she wore that fateful day when at the age of thirteen, she lost her left arm to a 14-foot tiger shark on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. The injury threatened to end her career as a rising surf star, but, just three weeks after the attack, she bravely returned to the water and within two years won her first national title.Oceanside Museum of ArtAddress: 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054Phone: (760) 435-3720WebsiteThe Oceanside Museum of Art located in the heart of downtown offers contemporary exhibits showcasing the finest Southern California art. Paintings, sculptures, architectural glass, and diverse thought-provoking themed creations are just some of the fascinating pieces found within the walls of this modernist building.This cultural three-leveled jewel located in downtown Oceanside also sports a view of the Pacific Ocean and historic Oceanside Pier. If you come, plan to spend some time exploring as the artwork here is so impressive.Hit the BreweriesOceanside has breweries. Lots of breweries. A visit to Oceanside isn’t complete without sampling the award-winning craft beers coming from its local entrepreneurial brewmasters. We’re glad the craft beer craze cruised north up the coast from San Diego as we’ve relished our beer tasting experiences here in Oceanside, affectionately known as Hops Highway.This is a town where beer aficionados gather, and each time we visit, we make it our plan to hit another one or two to try out either a newbie on the scene or some new craft offerings. We love their creative brews but also their really cool names like Black Plague Brewing, Belching Beaver Brewery, Kilowatt Brewing, or Pure Project, and more.Take in a Farmers MarketThe Oceanside Morning Farmers Market is held year-round every Thursday morning from 9 am to 1 pm. Located on the corner of North Coast Highway, this outdoor marketplace features local produce, fresh flowers, nursery items, artisan bread, and baked goods, organic honey, homemade dips and sauces, and olive oils. It’s absolutely amazing but go early, as the locals take their “farm fresh to you” market very seriously, and come with their shopping bags ready to fill. If you are more of a night market lover, then stay a little longer and go to the night market, which focuses on food and craft vendors. Buena Vista Audubon SocietyAddress: 2202 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054Phone: (760) 439-2473WebsiteAs a chapter of the National Audubon Society, Oceanside’s Buena Vista helps foster knowledge of the local plants and wildlife making up the natural ecosystem of the community and its environs. A primary focus of the group is providing nature education for children, offering numerous class outings to their Nature Center throughout the year.The chapter also offers birding opportunities as well as a dedication to the preservation, restoration, and enhancement of the fragile habitats within the county. Visitors to the center can explore interpretive wildlife displays, walk the ¼ mile nature trail, and spend time in the native plant garden. We love heading to the viewing deck on the second story offering incredible panoramas of the picturesque Buena Vista Lagoon. Mission San Luis Rey de FranciaAddress: 4050 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92057Phone: (760) 757-3651WebsiteThe largest of the California missions, San Luis Rey is known as the “King of the Missions” due to its expansiveness and stunning architectural beauty. With its hand-carved doors, bright colorfully-painted wall murals, and an original hand-hammered copper baptismal font made by Native Americans, the mission oozes history and culture. You can almost feel the presence of the Franciscan friars and Native Americans who once inhabited the mission more than two hundred years ago. Mission San Luis Rey provides both guided and self-guided tours, and a special behind-the-scenes tour. The sanctuary of the church is simply splendid, and the mixture of Classical and Baroque architecture is extraordinary. Get your tickets here>>If you haven’t been to Oceanside recently, we highly recommend a visit. Whether you’re here for the day or for a local getaway, we promise that you’ll be so impressed with this splendid SoCal beach town with its motto “O’Side Beats Inside” – any time!Last Updated on April 6, 2022 by sandiegoexplorerThe post Amazing Things to Do in Oceanside, California appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

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