California Beaches Blog

What does it take to sustain those new five diamonds that the Pelican Hill Resort (built by the Irvine Company), and Grand Del Mar in San Diego (where you can sip high tea this holiday season) just earned?  AAA  (or Automobile Club of America) released its five diamond list for 2010. Of course the hoteliers tell us that each diamond comes at a price. Many hoteliers have said that they choose not to pay extra for a four or five when the bookings are already great and they don’t need the esteem, as they have only so many rooms.

Pelican Hill Resort opened its doors on the Newport Coast charging at minimum $695/night. We took a look at the fees today and notice the prices have actually dropped on our booking system. You can now book a room for around $495.  One of my south OC friends reminds me that the rooms are nice and well worth the cost. She’s never stayed there but that’s what she thinks. I wouldn’t know as I certainly cannot afford the price.

Grand Del Mar in San Diego doesn’t have a beach on site nor within view, though it is close to Torrey Pines. On the same night you can stay at Pelican Hill for $495, the cheapest room at the Grand Del Mar will cost you $100 less at $395 per night.

Even the five diamond hotels have dropped their rates as of late, due to the economic woes that have really hit most sectors.

But in the long run when prices bounce back, the high-end hotels will be smiling stronger. For now, a five diamond victory usually brings the traveler valet parking, massage, spa, salon, fine dining, full concierge service and other amenities you’d expect on the upper end of service.  Having stayed in only a handful of Five Diamonds, I can say the service and cleanliness usually stands out the most.

One of the best deals in a five diamond hotel in California currently is the West Lake Village Four Seasons Hotel.  There are some rooms currently for $235/night (approx. - subject to change).