In need of a getaway? Now you can beat the heat and soak up the California sun in San Diego where the average temperature is a cool and beautiful 70 degrees. Enjoy a stay at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, nestled on the edge of the San Diego Bay with three pools, a new spa & fitness center, tennis courts, water sports discounts, bike rentals, jogging trails, poolside activities, dive-in movies on the weekends, children’s meal programs and more. Arizona residents get an exclusive deal that will have you basking in the San Diego sunshine with rates from $119 per night if you stay now through September 3, 2012. Click here to book your escape.

For decades, Arizonans have migrated the city of San Diego in the cruelest Summer months like it’s in our DNA. Why? Because out there when the sun shines, it doesn’t melt your skin off and the average temperature is a cool and breezy 70 degrees. There is also the promise of all of San Diego’s popular family attractions, dynamic downtown, historic parks, museums, dining and nightlife. Since this trek has become such a tradition, Starwood Hotels is offering a special rate for Arizona residents now through June 30th. Simply book your stay with at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina, The Westin Gaslamp, The US Grant or the W San Diego to take full advantage of rates starting at just $119 per night.  Seems like quite a steal for such a welcome escape.

The Lux Art Institute in California will be showing resident Artist Lila Jang’s collection from Januar 12 – March 3. This young South Korean sculptor finds inspiration in the confines of a small living space.

Jang takes ordinary furniture and turns it into something unique and beautiful whilst keeping its practical nature. “My work represents who and where we are as human beings: in the midpoint of that constant struggle between reality and the ideal,” she said in her profile on the Lux Web site. Her pieces are often described as, fluid furniture, from the often whimsical, curvaceous designs.

Her art work has been shown across the world and if you find yourself in California you won’t want to miss this awesome exhibit.

Lux Art Institute | 1550 S. El Camino Real | Encinitas, CA 92024 »READ MORE

If you’re heading to the San Diego shore between January 15 and 20, be sure to set aside some surf time for some turf time: it’s San Diego Restaurant Week. Over 180 restaurants throughout 12 regions in San Diego County will participate in the California Restaurant Association-sponsored event January 15 – 20, with discounted prix fixe specials happening both at lunch and dinner. Two-course Lunch options at $10, $15 and $20. And three-course dinner options for $20, $30 or $40. No extra ticket or pass required to dine at any of the participating restaurants. If the beach alone isn’t worth a trip to the coast next week, this event definitely is.

For a list of participating restaurants or to make reservations, see here.

Image via San Diego Vips