What to expect: This remote, 205-acre resort in the foothills of Temecula wine country attracts golfers, business travelers, and groups with its 18-hole golf course and extensive meeting and event space. The lobby is housed in a Mission-style building with stone columns, a wooden floor, and upholstered chairs, where guests can enjoy complimentary newspapers, apples, and oranges.

Amenity highlights: A pro shop, putting green, driving range, and private lessons are available (surcharge), and nongolfers take advantage of the outdoor splash pool, tennis courts, walking trails, and fitness room. The resort offers 17,600 feet of indoor and outdoor meeting and event space, including the open-air Garden Pavilion, which features rock columns, Spanish tile, and lush landscaping.

Insider tip: Seven miles from the resort, the Pala Casino offers 2,250 slot machines, 85 table games, live entertainment, and a day spa. The 88,000-square-foot Pechanga Casino is 11 miles away.