Here are some ideas for honeymooning in San Diego North.

Where to Stay

Nestled amongst a secluded lemon orchard near Palomar Mountain, Cupid’s Castle is a three-story castle, complete with a dungeon and tower. The castle contains four intimate suites, each with a romantic renaissance theme: Romeo and Juliet, Sir Lancelot, Lady Godiva, and Cupid’s Chamber (honeymoon suite). Each room contains candles, lotions, bubble bath, chocolates, freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, bath robe, and slippers. From $200 per night. adreamcastle.com

La Valencia is an historic La Jolla hotel that offers 15 ocean villas and 115 guestrooms. Its Sky Room is notorious for having great ocean-view dining. Built in 1926 and designed by Reginald Johnson, La Valencia Hotel has been an integral part in the history of La Jolla and San Diego. La Valencia is a San Diego tradition and has been a special “hideaway” for many of Hollywood’s most elite stars, including Groucho Marx, Lillian Gish, and Mary Pickford. Reminiscent of a Mediterranean villa, the hotel is appointed with rare antique furnishings, exquisite Spanish mosaics, and hand-painted murals and ceilings. From $200 per night. lavalencia.com

The Grand Del Mar is one of the most luxurious accommodation options in San Diego North. Serenely nestled amidst Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, the Grand Del Mar seamlessly combines the Old-World charm of a Mediterranean estate with the modern luxury of an elegant resort. The result: a destination lauded by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the "World's Best Places To Stay." Little wonder, given the sun-drenched climate, stunning natural beauty, championship golf course, and irresistible dining – epitomized by Addison, Southern California's only five-star and Five-Diamond restaurant. And no visit would be complete without an afternoon of pampering at Spa magazine's "Favorite New U.S. Spa.” From $395 per night. thegranddelmar.com

Top Romantic Picks in San Diego North
• “His” and “her” beer and wine tastings at Orfila Vineyards & Winery and Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens (both in Escondido).
• Hang-gliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla or a hot-air balloon ride with a Grape Escape Balloon Adventure.
• Explore an underwater preserve by kayaking or snorkeling La Jolla’s seven caves.
• Enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on a yacht in the San Diego Harbor area with Hornblower Cruises and Events.

Free Things to Do in San Diego North
• Enjoy a leisurely drive along the historic 101 coastal route.
• Take a behind-the-scenes tour of a local brewery.
• Delight in the wildflowers blooming in the Anza-Borrego Desert.
• Hike up Palomar Mountain and see the 200-inch Hale Telescope at Palomar Observatory.

For more ideas on how to create the perfect Southern California dream honeymoon, go to sandiegonorth.com.

Originally published in September 2009. Please consult with resort for current rates.