There’s no place like San Diego for the winter holidays. Where guests can warm up to sun shiny days, uncrowded beaches, and inviting laid-back vibes. Evan Hotels’ Bahia Resort Hotel and Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa on Mission Bay and The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla are the perfect coastal retreats to soak in the holiday season and make some merry memories. The three landmark resorts will deck the halls with spectacular themed decorations. As well as roll out a festive holiday program and splendid feasts. Beckoning guests to enjoy a holly jolly home away from home.
Winter Wonderlands
The warm and welcoming timbered design of The Lodge at Torrey Pines creates a magical winter getaway. Upon entering the resort’s colorful stained-glass doors, guests immediately step into a holiday wonderland. A towering Christmas tree greets visitors in the lobby, beautifully adorned with pinecones, manzanita branches, and woodland owls. Nearby, a festive tartan plaid reindeer adds charm. Additionally, an ornate Hanukkah menorah stands prominently on display. Gorgeous garlands elegantly drape across the mantel, while the inviting scent of white cedar crackles gently in the fireplace.
Likewise, the Bahia and Catamaran resorts embrace the holiday spirit with whimsical Gingerbread House Displays crafted by resort team members. Guests are encouraged to vote for their favorite creations. In particular, the Catamaran Resort puts its unique spin on classic gingerbread houses, showcasing charmingly decorated Hula Huts. These huts reflect the resort’s tropical island vibe, complete with a Polynesian-style Christmas tree in the lobby adorned with parrots, tikis, and other tropical decorations.
The Bahia brings a touch of nostalgia and whimsy to its lobby with midcentury holiday décor. It’s sure to bring out your inner child – including a retro-style TV set, vintage 1950s aluminum Christmas tree, and a leg lamp from the cult classic holiday movie, “A Christmas Story.”
Merry & Bright on the Bay
Gather with friends and family – and Santa Claus! – aboard the majestic William D. Evans sternwheeler for Jingle Belle Family Cruises, a San Diego tradition on the sparkling waters of Mission Bay. Guests can enjoy joyful carolers, photos with Santa, cookie decorating, a balloon artist, a face painter, and tasty holiday treats. With libations including hot cocoa and an espresso coffee bar. Cruises depart from the Bahia and Catamaran resorts, December 21-25. Reservations are required. The cost is $45 per person, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting Mama’s Kitchen, a San Diego nonprofit that provides medically tailored meals to individuals and families at risk of malnutrition due to critical illnesses.
The annual Parade of Lights returns to Mission Bay on December 9.
Visitors to the Catamaran Resort can cozy up bayside on the north lawn from 6 to 9 p.m. for a spectacular evening. From here, guests will have the perfect view of the dazzling boat parade, featuring dozens of brightly decorated boats with twinkling lights and festive ornaments. Additionally, this family-friendly event offers delightful holiday treats for sale, including cake pops, peppermint bark, hot cocoa, and warm winter cocktails.
Joyful Tunes
Meanwhile, the Catamaran Resort brings the cheerful spirit of aloha to Mission Bay. On Fridays and Saturdays from 5 to 7 p.m., guests can delight in Polynesian Carolers performing beloved holiday favorites.
Over at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, the celebration continues with the enchanting sounds of the Westminster Carolers. Guests can catch these charming performances on December 7-9, 14-16, and 21-23 from 5 to 8 p.m. To enhance the experience, attendees are invited to sip hot apple cider and savor slices of fruitcake during the show. Additionally, The Lodge hosts a festive Sing Along with Santa and Mrs. Claus on December 18 and 20 at 5 p.m., offering another wonderful opportunity to spread holiday cheer.
Mingle with Kris Kringle
Santa Claus journeys from the North Pole to the Catamaran Resort on Saturdays (3-5 p.m.) through December, Younger guests can meet Santa and share their holiday wishes—making it an ideal opportunity to snap festive family photos! Additionally, throughout the season, guests will find Santa’s Letter Stations conveniently located in the lobby of the Catamaran and Bahia resorts, as well as The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Each station features a cheerful, oversized mailbox where children can mail their wish lists and share their good deeds from the year.
Kids’ Stuff
Children can tap into their creative side with Holiday Arts and Crafts at The Lodge at Torrey Pines on December 21 and 28 (4 and 5 p.m.). Reservations are required.
ll month long in December, kids at the Bahia Resort can join an Elf on a Shelf Scavenger Hunt, a seasonal twist on hide and seek. Find the magical elf and win a prize!
On select Saturdays (3-4 p.m.) through December, kids – and moms and dads – can take part in Gingerbread House Decorating at Oceana Coastal Kitchen in the Catamaran Resort. The cost is $10; reservations are required through the restaurant.
Chillin’ Bahia Resort Happy Hours
Guests visiting the Catamaran Resort are encouraged to pack their favorite holiday sweaters for Holiday Sweater Happy Hour at Moray’s lounge, on November 29-December 25. Guests wearing their holiday sweaters will enjoy extended happy hour prices. From 5:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. including $2 off craft cocktails, flatbreads, wine by the glass, and draft beers.
Also at the Catamaran Resort, guests 21 and up can explore their artistic side at Holiday Sip and Paint on December 13 (5 p.m.). This interactive guided painting session will include a glass of wine and delicious light hors d’oeuvres. Tickets for Holiday Sip and Paint are $65. Reserve your spot through Oceana Coastal Kitchen.
Discover more holiday cheer this season. Explore special offers and promotions at the Bahia Resort Hotel, Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa, and The Lodge at Torrey Pines. Visit us at www.bahiahotel.com, www.catamaranresort.com and www.lodgetorreypines.com
