I've gone to Pechega a few times, it's ok. Casino Morongo is nearby as well and is the latest and greatest Cali casino around. It's near Palm Spings but IMO both P and M are in the middle of nowhere as west state. San Diego is fun but it's about an hour south of Pechunga, so is the closest beach. Let me know if you head down there anyway, I get down there alot lately. Maybe we could setup a little get together with west and reality as well, reality is a SD local.
Temucula attracts people who are into wine. Palm Springs has the tramway that takes you to the top of the "world", there is sometimes snow up there.
IMO Santa Barbera gives you the best of Cali. Beaches, scenery, luxury and shopping. There is a casino within 1 hour or less of Santa Barbera.