Most of you know that I tend to travel at 100 miles an hour, jumping from place to place and cramming as much into my travels as possible. So when the opportunity came up for me and my husband to actually relax for a weekend and enjoy each other’s company for our one-year wedding anniversary at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego, we jumped at it!
FIRST IMPRESSION / SERVICE
Upon walking in, we were taken by the beautiful modern décor and Latin influence. When we were greeted at the front desk, we immediately knew we were going to be taken care of. The service is warm and professional, and the hotel is upscale while maintaining a level of boutique charm.
LOCATION
This property is conveniently located in the heart of the historic Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, which we loved. It was convenient for exploring, and is close to museums, theaters and even the San Diego Convention Center (0.7 miles) and zoo (1.5 miles).
THE ROOM
There are 211 guest rooms at the Kimpton Palomar, and we were fortunate enough to stay on the 20th floor in a beautiful Skyline Suite with a King Bed and two lovely balconies. Seeing the panoramic views of the Gaslamp and the ocean was truly an incredible and romantic experience, by day or by night!
We also had a flat screen TV in our room and high speed Internet, which meant we could lounge side by side while watching the Oscars and getting some work done (which we did).
The room was modern and comfortable, with books on San Diego’s best beaches and surf-inspired decorations distributed throughout the space. Floor-to-ceiling windows and an L-shaped couch made the atmosphere cheery. White linens on the bed gave it an air of chic sophistication, and the bright interiors made us feel relaxed.
Oh, and the bathroom had the most incredible rain shower, and a variety of deliciously scented luxury shampoos and conditioners with scents from oolong tea and orange blossom to cardamom and eucalyptus!
THE FOOD
We were here during off-season, which meant the Pool Deck & Lounge was closed. However, we had a delicious dinner at Curadero, the charming in-hotel Mexican restaurant that feels like the perfect blend of big city sophistication and small town cantina. They’re also famous for their ceviche bar, and the corn tortillas are made in house.
We chowed down on some delicious Suadero Tacos, Queso Fundido (which we LOVED and got two orders of) and a Carne Asada plate. For drinks, I opted for the El Noble, and Michael nursed a glass of complimentary wine.
THE AMENITIES
In addition to boasting an incredible location, gorgeous rooms and a fabulous restaurant, the Kimpton Palomar Hotel has a beautiful rooftop pool on the fourth floor. It was unusually chilly in San Diego when we went, but because the pool is heated, we were able to take a dip and gaze out at the city skyline without feeling cold! I can’t wait to return here during the summer when the rooftop bar is open as well to enjoy the pool while also snacking on some delicious foods and drinks.
Also, the hotel has a cute Arriba Room filled with vintage arcade games, foosball, pool tables and general fun.
The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center (we never used this because we were too busy enjoying everything else!) and a Social Hour with complimentary wine from 5-6pm.
Bicycles are available to borrow as well. The hotel is also pet-friendly if you would like to bring your furry friends with you for a weekend getaway!
MEANINGFUL EXTRAS
When we went up to our room after dinner at Curadero, were pleasantly surprised to find a bottle of champagne with a note wishing us a very happy anniversary! It was a nice touch to an already perfect weekend.
CONCLUSION
If you’re ever in San Diego and want to stay in the heart of the city, this is the place for you. The service is incredible, the accommodations are comfortable and they take the extra step to go above and beyond to make you feel at home.
To book a night at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego, click here!
This review is written in partnership with the Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you so much to the wonderful staff at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar for making our one-year anniversary an experience to remember!