San Diego has traditionally had two personalities, both sleepy. As the summer home for Arizona residents, San Diego has long attracted desert dwellers escaping triple digit heat. The beach town is also a relaxing escape for those high strung L.A.-types looking to flee smog and bask in near year-round 70 degree temps.

But a hip San Diego? Never.

At least not until now. Two new condo hotels are set to emerge in San Diego amid shopping and dining destinations in the historical Gaslamp quarter and will inject luxury and, no doubt, a more youthful vibe into the market.

The 420-room Hard Rock Hotel San Diego expected to open this month, will offer 17 unique “Rock Star Suites” including one designed by the Black Eyed Peas, a 5,000 square foot live music venue, 40,000 square feet of technology-loaded meeting space and a Rock-themed spa and fitness center. The modern 12-story condo hotel, will also include a landscaped pool deck with private cabanas, an outpost of the Asian fusion restaurant Nobu and a lounge and pool bar operated by night club emperor Rande Gerber.

Early next year, the The Setai San Diego will emerge from a 5th Avenue Partners rebranding effort with luxurious interiors and generous amenities. Units at the condo hotel formerly known as the Diegan, will feature 10-foot ceilings and stone and teak bathrooms designed by the Rockwell Group.

Some of the 161 rooms and suites and 24 penthouses ranging between 400 and 2,700 square feet will also have balconies overlooking the Gaslamp Quarter. Penthouses will include full Italian kitchens with high end appliances, and all rooms will be equipped with flat-screen televisions, MP3 music systems, and wireless Internet access. Prices range from the high $400,000s to $3.8 million, and will include access to 24-hour, private in-room dining and concierge services.

The Setai San Diego will also be home to a 30-seat private screening room, a professional-quality recording studio, a restaurant, and a lobby bar. A 5,000-square-foot spa, fitness center and 7,000-square-foot pool deck lined with a bar and private cabanas will complete the outdoor space.

New to Condo Hotels?

Then check out our Mini Guide:

• Part 1: Condo Hotels Explained
• Part 2: Financial Analysis
• Part 3: Brands and Projects
• Part 4: Key Questions