Tucked in the Pauma Valley along the Palomar Mountains, you will find Harrah’s Resort SoCal, a hidden getaway that encompasses everything you would need for a weekend of fun, relaxation, games, and world class dining. I headed to Harrah’s for a girls getaway weekend, where we stayed in the newly redesigned South Tower that had a king sized bed, a separate living room, kitchen, and two bathrooms (my apartment doesn’t even have two bathrooms).
As soon as we settled in, we headed to the Oyster Bar where we split a seafood sampler that could have easily fed four people. For only $35, it was filled with ahi tuna, shrimp ceviche, oysters, clams, crab legs, and more. The beautiful display was filling and the perfect pairing to the large wine list.
The next morning we woke up early and made sure to hit Starbucks and then the gym. We both live a very healthy lifestyle, so getting in a workout (even on out mini vacay) is important. It was important to other people as well because the gym was packed! They had everything you could need to keep you on track (treadmills, weights, bikes, ellipticals, and weight training machines).
After working up and appetite, it was time to grab breakfast at the buffet. It was full of fresh selections including an omelet station, carving station, sushi, Mexican, Asian, Italian, salad area, breakfast dishes, and a dessert counter (that seems to be everyones favorite).
Harrah’s does not skimp when it comes to their pool area. That afternoon we had a cabana at Dive, the outdoor pool bar/restaurant. We spent the day lounging, sunning, and sipping at the swim up bar. They also have a food menu (if you’re still hungry), along with TVs to catch any shows you may want to see, and lounges to soak up the sun. We made our way to the lazy river, that I called the “not-so-lazy” river. With waterfalls, water fountains, and a pretty strong current, you will find yourself feeling as if you’re a little kid again. We laughed the whole time, along with getting soaking wet. Ladies, just let go and get that hair wet!
While we were visiting, the Latin Food & Wine Fest was taking place. We tasted wines from over thirty producers including wines from Spain, Argentina, France, Chile, Mexico, and Italy and to soak up the sips, we tasted cuisine from restaurants like Aquí es Texcoco, Cocina Vallarta Escondido, Bracero Cocina – Chef Javier Plascencia, Tempo Urban Kitchen – Chef Jorge Cueva, and Culinary Arts Institute from Tijuana – Chef Javier Gonzalez. My favorite being a conch shooter with vodka and caviar. It was a meal and a shot in one and went down a little too easy. We also joined the Flamenco dancers and learned some new dance moves. They were absolutely beautiful, strong, and entertaining. At the end of the festival, all the wine is available for sale at wholesale prices. I got about six high end bottles for $30. This is a festival not to be missed.
That evening we had dinner at Fiore, the fine dining steakhouse. The menu is full of classic, high end fare including seafood, steak, incredible salads, and sides. I kept it light with a the Living Hydroponic Butter Lettuce Salad mad with oven roasted tomatoes, red onion, Pecorino-Romano, house-made Applewood smoked bacon, unfiltered Sicilian olive oil, 5 year aged Balsamic, organic cage free poached egg, and a side of Crispy Brussels and Bacon. Along with the wine, every dish was perfectly executed and the service was top notch.
The next morning we headed to the spa, where I had a facial by Sarah and Ariel had a massage. Sarah was comforting, friendly and informative. I was able to relax, but also learn about ways to take care of my skin. Both, Ariel and I, were content, pampered, and not wanting to leave. We then lounged a little longer at the pool and, sadly, made our way back to reality in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for a hidden spot that has all the fun of Vegas, sun of Palm Springs, and relaxation of Ojai, Harrah’s Resort SoCal, is the perfect getaway for you. Take a girl friend, take a special someone, or go with the family. There is absolutely something for everyone!
