Tower 23, named after the lifeguard stand sited on the Pacific Beach sands in front of the hotel, is an anomaly in an area famous for boisterous bars, beer-soaked beaches, and g-string bikinis. Though it’s been many months since its establishment, the buzz still hasn’t faded. Glowing, gorgeous, and funky-flavored, Tower 23, “a clean, contemporary celebration of the elements”, is San Diego’s hippest choice for a first-class vacation.

The hotel’s ultra-creative designers took a minimalist approach to décor without sacrificing any luxury: “Responding to the site's natural elements … a Boardwalk alive with energy set against crashing ocean waves ... architect Graham Downes sought to design a building that would capture this dynamic.” Rooms, or “pads”, are split into three individual types, Spirit, Sky and Surf; and suites into Sanctuary and Sweet (get it?). Some offer ocean views, and others private cabana patios. The suites even offer in-room spas, featuring a chroma-aromatherapy whirlpool tub.

Although with these kind of amenities in may seem impossible to leave your room, venture downstairs for a one-of-a-kind restaurant and nightclub experience at JRDN Surf: Sky: Spirit. If steak and seafood aren’t enough to chew on, check out the seventy-five foot wave wall. Extending the length of the room, the wall reflects the light of the sunset, and changes color radiantly during nighttime martini-sipping hours.