The slogan of the ultra-cool Tower 23 hotel at Pacific Beach, just north of San Diego, is 'Life is Good'. If I could stay in this hotel for life, l wouldn't disagree.
The hotel's name is derived from lifeguard tower 23 on Pacific Beach, and what a beach it is... In fact, the developers of Tower 23 are so confident of the draw of one of California's hippest beaches, that the hotel almost casually pulls off the style and contemporary urban feel that matches its setting. Surf cool this is: the three rooms types, Surf, Sky and Spirit all are designed perfectly for the setting and provide a fresh, bright and neo-modernist base from which to explore.
Tower 23 benefits from its great location, and the local trendsetters agree. The resort's Tower Bar is packed all day with those enjoying the indoor/outdoor setting next to Pacific Beach's boardwalk, confirming this as one of the hottest locations in town and, for that matter, along the Californian coast.
We stayed in the Sweet Suite, and after being greeted by the friendly staff, we made our way to the third floor - which by American standards is very unusual to be the top floor. However, due to the area's 30ft vertical height restrictions we found ourselves at the top of the property. As we made our way along the wide corridors to our suite, we were greeted by brave use of whites and linear decor with a splash of minimal 'surf art', all which worked together.
Our suite was large and had a simple beauty, which created a stunning blank canvas to enjoy the views of one of California's finest surf beaches. The hotel does not waste space with a pool or spa, leaving you to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast and your personal spa bath. We dined in the hotel's stunning JRDN restaurant. Rather than being hidden away in the property, the hotel's designers placed the restaurant on the boardwalk.
With the dramatic lighting and roar of the ocean at night, JRDN provides an unique spot to enjoy some of California's freshest, finest ingredients. The steamed mussels with chorizo, herbs and chardonnay broth were outstanding. All elements of the service, atmosphere, and all-too-tempting menu will ensure a fantastic experience. After your majestic dining experience you have the choice of a nightcap at the Tower Bar or just jump straight into one of Tower 23's signature 'Serenity' beds ready for that early morning wake-up surf.
Tower 23 Hotel, 4551 Ocean Blvd, San Diego, California 92109 (+ 858 270 2323; tower23hotel.com). Room rates start from £123 per room per night.
