Sometimes, a getaway doesn’t need to be a luxury escape – it just needs to be a change of scenery. When I started looking for a quick staycation in San Diego, my priorities were simple: a reasonable price, a location close to kayaking spots, and a visual appeal that made me feel like I was on vacation without crossing a border. I wanted to be within striking distance of San Diego’s coastline but far enough from Los Angeles to feel like I’d truly left the city behind.
Expanding my search beyond downtown, I explored Carlsbad and La Jolla, and that’s when I found The Cassara Carlsbad, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton. It checked all the boxes – coastal proximity, a design that felt refreshingly Californian, and a location that made it easy to reach both my San Diego plans and the surrounding adventures.
Location
Arriving at the property, I immediately noticed the coastal palette – soft blues, sandy browns, and calming neutrals – that made the place feel grounded in the seaside lifestyle. I could see glimpses of the Pacific Ocean from parts of the hotel.
Always a plus in my eyes.
Room + Stay
The balcony was a highlight, offering a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean in the distance, though the acoustics were… as efficient as a concert at the Hollywood Bowl.
I could hear every word of the heart-to-heart conversation happening next door – two people unpacking a life story about growing up as a troubled teen and emerging stronger. While not the soundtrack I was expecting, I couldn’t help but silently applaud the stranger’s resilience.
Good job, random guy – making it to the other side of your struggles is no small thing.
Overall
The rest of the stay was just as I’d hoped. The room felt freshly renovated and impeccably clean, with shared spaces that were thoughtfully designed and easy on the eyes. While The Cassara isn’t directly in the heart of San Diego, the drive downtown is relatively quick and scenic.
For my partner and I, it was exactly the kind of California staycation I crave: relaxation wrapped in coastal charm, with the freedom to chase a bit of adventure when the mood strikes.
The Cassara Carlsbad, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
5805 Armada Drive, Building BCarlsbad, California 92008
