Carlsbad
California


The Experience

Because so much of the California coast consists of hillsides and cliffs, few resorts are actually right on the beach -- but this makes for even more spectacular views, and the Four Seasons Aviara has some of the best. The resort spreads across a bluff overlooking both the wildlife-rich wetlands of the Batiquitos Lagoon and the sapphire Pacific Ocean, about a 30-minute drive north from the airport in San Diego. The Spanish-colonial-style resort shares its 200 acres with private residences and an Arnold Palmer golf course. But more than anything else, it’s the perfect spot for families, within easy driving range of the San Diego Zoo, Wild Animal Park and Legoland.

The Rooms

Rooms at the Aviara start at a generous 540 square feet, with either a terrace or a balcony, and the decor is traditional, with mixed, muted shades and a lot of florals in the fabric patterns -- very much what you expect from a Four Seasons resort. As with most resorts, room categories go up with views, beginning with the hills behind. While all are the same size (you’ll have to upgrade to a suite for more space), the panoramic-view rooms offer the most eye candy -- request a view of Batiquitos Lagoon.

The Service

Service here is generally excellent, with a certain Southern California casualness -- lots of big, friendly grins. The 24-hour concierge service can bring you up to date on everything that’s available in the area, then make it possible for you to enjoy.

The Highlights

Because this is such an ideal family destination, with programs and a playground for kids, the resort has provided a separate adults-only pool -- with state-of-the-art cabanas that include TVs, Wi-Fi and minibars -- which is a welcome relief from the commotion of the main pool. To escape the hubbub completely, head for the beach, which is just a short walk down from the resort. There you’ll find a surf concierge -- in addition to the surfing instructors -- who can instruct you in the proper terminology to go along with your newly acquired technique. If surfing’s not your thing, the 7,007-yard, par-72 course is a gorgeous walk -- built so as not to disturb the wetlands -- with great views from the greens, including the of lagoon.

--Laurel Delp

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