(Alejandro Tamayo / The San Diego Union-Tribune) Pala Casino Spa & Resortġ1154 Highway 76, Pala. Two private casinos, with VIP butler service, underground entrance and a helipad, caters to an exclusive clientele. Barona is undergoing a modest expansion, which will add to and improve various amenities. The 18-hole, championship golf course is steps from the hotel.
The hotel has 400 rooms, all with balconies or terraces. (Alcohol is not permitted on the casino floor.) Highlights among the 11 dining venues are the Barona Oaks Steakhouse, the 850-seat Seasons Fresh Buffet - the largest in the San Diego area - and the Italian Cucina restaurant. Gaming options include 2,100 slot machines, over 90 tables, a 15-table poker room and a high-limit area. Barona’s casino floor offers no-fee ATMs and the roving “Party People” with instant-cash giveaways.
The deal: A full-scale casino resort with a hotel, golf course, day spa and multiple dining venues. Shuttle information: /about-barona/directions-and-transportation/shuttle-schedule
