Total for 2 people, 5 nights: $1,326
Average Hotel Rate: $136
Average Airfare: $323
Why it's worth visiting: While San Diego may bring to mind family-friendly attractions like the zoo and Sea World, the area also offers plenty of bacchanal pleasure for adults.
San Diego County is home to nearly 50 wineries, most of which produce small-batch Cabernets, Merlots, and Syrahs. You won't face the crowds of Napa -- or the prices. Tastings here will set you back only $8 to $10, vs. $10 to $25 there.
Plan your visit for September or October, suggests Samantha Pewitt of the local vintner's association. "The colors are beautiful," she notes -- and you'll get to witness harvesting and crushing. Be sure to hit Cordiano Winery, known for its smooth Cab Sav, outdoor pizza oven, and terrace overlooking the San Pasqual Valley.
Why it's a deal: Vacationers overlook San Diego in favor of Los Angeles to the north and Mexico to the south, says L. Jasmine Kim of travel deals site Travel-Ticker.com. That means you can get a good price on a four-star hotel here ($164, vs. $188 in L.A.). Air service by Southwest and Virgin America keeps fares low: $323 on average from U.S. airports.
Where to stay: The Rancho Bernardo Inn, 25 minutes from downtown San Diego, which starts at $169 a night. Seven wineries are within a 20-minute drive.
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