Story by Ken Panton
Photography: Milo Vega

When planning a beach vacation, the two priorities for young jet-set traveler are location and energy. There needs to be a scene that rocks with excitement from early afternoon to late night. We recently discovered such a destination - the fabulously luxurious Tower 23 in sunny San Diego. This beachfront luxury boutique lifestyle hotel is one of the most stylish and contemporary places we have had to pleasure of experiencing. Tower 23 Hotel is named after the lifeguard tower located nearby on one of the nations most beautiful beaches and this vibrant location is a gathering place for people watching and fine dining.

You may feel as if you have arrived at a stylish outpost in a far away jet-set destination, complete with a uniquely relaxed vibe. The rooms at Tower 23 reflect the tones of the oceanfront setting; the natural elements of sun, sand, ocean, and sky have inspired the décor that is warm and indulgent. Guest can choose from three room types including Spirit, Sky, and Surf Pads, and if they are staying in a distinctive suite, Sanctuary or Sweet offer further options for a unique experience.

I choose a Surf Pad for my oceanfront room and I reveled in the setting sun from my private balcony. For an over-the-top experience I recommend the Sweet Suite. This 2-room suite offers a floating King size bed in the bedroom, complete with a private balcony, and a large living room designed for entertaining that includes its own wet bar and 42” LCD HDTV and yet another private balcony. The bathroom’s luxurious “chromatherapy” floating whirlpool Jacuzzi tube features an innovative fixture which gives the illusion that the water is falling from the sky, and a step-in rain shower further enhances the posh bathroom and ensures a sweet experience for the guests.

Dining at Tower 23 is a must for anyone interested in exceptional cuisine, beautiful people, and California beach style opulence. At JRDN Surf, the contemporary steak and seafood restaurant casually sophisticated California fresh cuisine is served for breakfast lunch and dinner. From this exceptional venue the setting sun takes center stage and is celebrated by the ambient reflections dispersed on diners from the 70-foot long “wave wall” at the rear of the restaurant.

Nature’s lightshow continues with a theatrical effect throughout the evening. This whitewashed enclave becomes awash with a spectrum of colors that reflects the excitement of the crowd. The Tower Deck located on the second floor of the hotel, reserved for hotel guests and their friends and other invited guest is a gorgeous spot for cocktails under the stars.

The cool eats, cool music, and cool guests make this one of California’s most sought after vibes. At Tower 23 all that is required of guests is their relaxation and soon this California scene unfolds around them. Not to be missed is the experience of dining on freshly prepared sushi at Ei8ht, Tower 23’s intimate and architecturally creative sushi bar. Tower 23 Hotel is located near La Jolla and downtown San Diego, the airport and major business centers and attractions are just moments away.

www.tower23hotel.com