One Of The West Coast's Biggest Casino Resorts Rests In A Lively Wine Valley With It's Own Golf Course

When it comes to vacation locales, Southern California has a lot going on. From theme parks to iconic beaches, you have more than a few options regarding where to stay and what to do. However, if you're looking for a world-class resort that allows you to get away from the big city while being close enough to everything, Pechanga Resort Casino might be the ticket. 

Owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Indians, it's located in the underrated California wine region that's a lot like Tuscany and is one of the largest casino resorts in the U.S., so there's a lot to do here. Pechanga is also a AAA, Four Diamond resort so you'll feel like you're part of California's elite when you visit. With 200,000 square feet of non-smoking round-the-clock gaming floors — including 5,500 slot machines, 152 tables, a High Limit Saloon, plus private rooms — Pechanga has been voted by readers of USA Today as the Best Casino in the U.S. and in the West.

Not only are you in the heart of wine country here, the resort casino has a champion 18-hole golf course, concerts and events, a spa, multiple restaurants, and, of course, gambling. Plus, you're relatively close to Orange County and the old-school city just outside San Diego, Escondido. Overall, Pechanga has everything on site while putting you in the heart of SoCal. If you're ready to see why this resort should be at the top of your vacation list, let's dive in and check it out!

Since we're talking about vacationing in sunny Southern California, one of the most popular elements of Pechanga Resort Casino is The Cove. Spanning 4.5 acres, this outdoor paradise encompasses four luxurious pools, two whirlpools, a family-friendly pool, two water slides, dozens of private cabanas, and a swim-up bar. The Cove is open from spring to fall, and you can buy day passes if you don't stay at the resort.

Golfing is the next main attraction, and Pechanga boasts an award-winning, par-72 links-style course tucked up against rolling hills that's sure to please golfers of any skill level. Whether you just want a relaxing way to spend the day or you're trying to improve your handicap, Journey at Pechanga — complete with a pro shop and restaurant — is one of the best courses in SoCal. Designed by notable architects Steve Forrest and Arthur Hills, it was voted the number one public golf course in California by NBC Golf Pass.

After a full day of golfing and swimming, you'll be famished. Pechanga has 11 restaurants including a food court, plus 24/7 room service, so there are plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds. If you're looking for Asian cuisine, Bamboo or Blazing Noodles offer fantastic flavor combinations. If you want something high-class, check out the Great Oak Steakhouse or Umi Sushi and Oyster Bar for gourmet eats. There's also Italian, Mexican, and American spots, and the food court has a little bit of everything and is perfect for those on a budget.

Given Pechanga's location, the best airport to fly into is San Diego International Airport. From there, it's only about an hour's drive north-east to reach the resort. Pechanga has hundreds of rooms with floor-to-cieling windows and luxurious amenities available across two towers, so you can find something within your budget that can accommodate everyone. If you're going to gamble, staying in the Casino Tower will make it more convenient to head down to the tables and slots. While the Resort Tower offers the best access to the spa and outdoor pool areas.

Relaxation and entertainment are also a big part of the Pechanga experience. The resort has a tranquil, full-service spa that's true to its traditional Native American roots. Located next to The Cove, it has its own pool and cabanas for guests, healthy snacks, and a world-class spa menu. For entertainment, Pehcanga offers several venues that host a wide variety of acts. Whether you like comedy shows, tribute bands, magic acts, or sparring, Pechanga has it all. It also plays host to numerous popular events like the annual Wine and Chocolate Festival, Tacos and Tequila party, and the Pechanga Pow Wow.

Since you're in SoCal wine country, you might as well venture out and explore some local vineyards. There's a cluster of wineries just northeast of the resort, and Temecula even has an annual hot air balloon and wine festival. The area also boasts endless outdoor fun at Lake Skinner Recreation Area. It's only 30 minutes north, so you can spend the day on the lake and get back in time for dinner, a show, and some slots.