
The poolside Hiatus Lounge at the new Hotel La Jolla has an open-air bar, a long fireplace encased in a stone wall, and an array of beachy lounge furniture strewn among palm trees. The lounge is available for daytime or evening private events, with a capacity of 70.
Photo: Courtesy of Hotel La Jolla

Bistro-style bar-restaurant 100 Wines Hillcrest opened in the Hillcrest neighborhood in August, making good on its name by offering 100 varietals. Vintage European details like a 1920s chalkboard and metal bands from reclaimed wine barrels line the bar, which is available for buyouts.
Photo: Cole Humphus

The new addition to La Costa Resort and Spa in Carlsbad, Edge Adult Pool includes a 52- by 36-foot oval-shaped pool, infinity-edge Jacuzzis, fire pits, and private cabanas, plus a café and bar area serving signature cocktails. The pool and terrace area is available for event rental, with a capacity of 530.
Photo: Don Riddle Images

The burlesque-themed spin-off of a popular Las Vegas nightclub, Pussycat Dolls Dollhouse opened in the Gaslamp district in September, complete with a bottom-lit stage, light-up poles, and disco balls. The private champagne room is available for as many as 60, and the venue can provide a mixologist and custom drink lists. The entire space holds as many as 300 for buyouts.
Photo: James Norton

A block from Petco Park, Block No. 16 Union and Spirits, a flashy bilevel club, opened in July. The 20,000-square-foot venue includes warehouse-style decor modernized with timber, burlap, and leather details; a central bar, stage, and surrounding catwalk; as well as a 35- by 25-foot LED screen. Total capacity for buyouts is 1,000. For smaller events, the mezzanine holds 200, or the lounge holds 150.
Photo: Charles Jaworsk

Subterranean, brick-lined stand-up venue American Comedy Company opened in the Gaslamp district in January 2012. Buyouts are available for as many as 200, and semiprivate areas can hold groups of 10 or more. A full menu of bar food is available.
Photo: Mark Mecalis