Last weekend Richard and I had a weekend getaway to San Diego, CA. I have always loved San Diego.. since I went to surf camp there when I was 18 years old! Something about the fresh ocean air, the dog beaches, the friendly people and the laid back surfer vibe make me a happy camper.
We stayed at a charming resort on Shelter Island called the Kona Kai Resort and Spa. When you arrive you walk into a lobby filled with bright colors and lush plants that get you in the beach mindset right away. We stayed on the 2nd floor and our balcony had a view of the harbor and beautiful hills filled with Spanish style homes (and mansions). Kona Kai even has their own little beach which was adorable and was never crowded.
This was the view from our balcony. It was nice to wake up and have a cup of coffee on our balcony and check out all of the boats.
The tufted headboard was so huge! I also loved the bedding… it was SO comfortable!
Breakfast at Vessel restaurant- it was delicious.
Um, yes.. need I say more?
We loved the cabanas by the pool.
Okay, drum roll please… the happy hour was seriously the best part of this trip. Coming from someone who loves yummy food and drinks the happy hour at Vessel Restaurant at the hotel is simply incredible.
We had the mac and cheese, wild mushroom flatbread and the poky. Mama mia folks.. you need to get in on this happy hour. I’m still dreaming about it and have been since I left the resort. They also have beer, wine and a delicious strawberry margarita. Each item is around $5-$6.
The hotel also has water sports available. We decided to rent the jet skis for an hour. This picture was taken right before Richard decided to drive our jet ski into a huge pile of kelp. It was pretty hilarious actually.. if you didn’t know Richard is English.. so he started yelling “Kelp” to the coast guards and they thought he was yelling, “Help!” so a safety patrol boat and 4 coast guards came to make sure we were okay. Definitely a hilarious highlight of the trip! I drove us back to safety and we returned the jet ski about 20 minutes into our hour rental. ( we may stick to the kayaks next time.)
After the jet skiing experience we needed a bit of relaxation so we headed over to Spa Terre and got a couples massage. I can honestly say this was one of the best massages in my life. You also start your spa experience in the “zen den” with a cozy robe on and a glass of complimentary champagne in hand… which is an added bonus.
Overall I would rate the hotel a 3.5 out of 5 Stars. The room was a bit on the small side and the location isn’t in the heart of the action in San Diego, but it great for couples who are looking for a romantic escape by the harbor. The hotel is definitely well priced coming in around $189 a night. I would love to come back for another visit!
Have you ever been to San Diego? Where did you stay?
XOXO,
Scarlett
