First off, thanks! to all who made suggestions. It's always comforting to have the first-hand experiences to rely on. I (re-?) considered all suggestions (I think some were on my radar before hand), but the mountainous/ski resorts, while beautiful, will be too cool right now for my liking and Hawaii is too long of a flight for such a short break, IMHO.

...And now there's been a little change of plans, hence my delayed follow-up: Mrs. ttrltb has appts. and I'll instead be traveling solo in mid-late April. Shortly before I was ready to pull the trigger on The Phoenician for my lonely travels , I re-read the Master Thread and can't seem to do it. Now, I'm thinking of going to someplace in California for 6-10 days. Here's are my updated list of wants, in order of preference:

• relaxing & outdoorsy/scenic (would like to laze in a big ol' pool, hopefully with some kind of view, hike/maybe hit some National Parks, etc.)
• warm to hot temps
• decent plat recognition/lounge
• since I'll be using mostly points, would probably like to keep hotel a cat 5 or lower, but would consider otherwise
• not overrun with kids

What's the best resort/property in California that meets many of the above criteria?

Cheers!

PS- I will probably stay at 2-3 properties during my travels, to see & do as much as a rejuvenating schedule affords.