As a resident of Orange County, San Diego is one of my favorite local-ish locations. It's close enough that we often make day trips just to get away, but it also has enough to keep you occupied for a couple days. Its proximity to the border means excellent Mexican food, and its location on the water creates a laid-back atmosphere all its own. Most visitors make stops at the well-known tourist attractions - the San Diego Zoo, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and SeaWorld, but keep reading for more stops off the beaten path.
Planning an extended SoCal trip? Be sure to check out the guide for Palm Springs as well!
WHAT TO DO
Balboa Park (1549 El Prado) - No trip to San Diego is complete without a trip to Balboa Park. Located on more than 1000 acres, it is home to multiple museums and awe-inspiring architecture. Although most of the museums do charge an admission fee, entry to the grounds itself is always free, as is parking. The impressive Spreckels Organ Pavilion offers free concerts throughout the year, and be sure to cross the footbridge to the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, located just on the other side of the huge water fountain. The Botanical Building also offers free admission year-round and is a fun experience for both kids and adults.
Gaslamp Quarter - Located directly in the heart of downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter houses lively restaurants and nightlife in historic buildings. Bars and theaters tend to bring out a younger crowd on the weekends, and this neighborhood will usually be your best bet for late-night dining. One caveat - the area does tend to get homeless and/or disorderly crowds so be extra vigilant on those late nights.
Seaport Village (849 West Harbor Drive) – Seaport Village is a charming outdoor complex located at the southern tip of downtown. Filled with cute shops and a carousel, look out for outdoor performers and musicians, especially during the warmer months. I personally find the dining options to be a bit lacking so my recommendation would be to grab a bite at the Headquarters nearby and head over to Embarcadero Park for a picnic on the grass. All located in the same area, Embarcadero Park provides unbelievable views of the Coronado Bridge, the naval base, the marina, and a continuous parade of military and civilian boats.
U.S.S. Midway (910 North Harbor Drive) – Having grown up on military bases, I love military history and never met a war movie I didn't like. That said, the Midway Museum offers a (fun) history lesson for all. A ticket abroad this retired aircraft carrier will take you back in time to see how Navy sailors lived and worked on this floating city. The top deck is also full of airplanes and helicopters for aviation buffs. Be sure to make a stop at Tuna Harbor Park right to the Midway and pose for a picture with the famous Unconditional Surrender Statue.
Coronado Island (101 Ocean Boulevard) – Visible from just about anywhere on the San Diego coastline, the famous Coronado Bridge connects the mainland with charming Coronado Island. Check out the Coronado Beach and Dog Park for dog (and human) heaven before heading into town to grab a bite to eat. The streets are small and do get busy at rush hour so avoid those times if possible. If you're interested in learning more about the Coronado, the bridge, or the Pacific fleet's largest naval base that calls Coronado home, any of the Harbor Tours are a wealth of information and a fun ride. The various tour companies mostly leave from a port right by the Midway and offer north side tours (covering the north bay up to the Cabrillo National Monument) and south side tours (covering Coronado and the shipyards).
La Jolla Cove – Located about 10 miles north of San Diego, La Jolla Cove offers a chance to come face to face with marine life. You will hear (and smell) the sea lions and seals before you see them. On most days, you can see them sprawled across the warm rocks. Take in the view from the rocky cliffs or venture down to the sandy beach to snorkel and frolic in the water. There is also a large park at the cove so feel free to bring a kite or a picnic. The views are particularly amazing at sunset so don't forget your camera. Parking is free but can be hard to find so be prepared to spend some time driving around.
WHAT TO EAT
Extraordinary Desserts (1430 Union Street) – Dessert before dinner! Extraordinary Desserts is a must-see dessert paradise located downtown. There is another smaller, cozier location, but this one is my personal favorite. Every corner of the restaurant is picture-worthy, and the desserts are absolutely beautiful. They do have a food menu, but we know everyone is here for the desserts. The meringue options (especially the pavlovas) are amazing, but you really can't miss on whatever you end up choosing.
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop (1810 West Washington Street) – Hot pink walls and eclectic decor will greet you at this wrestling-themed taco shop. You may be put off by the uniqueness of it all, but push forth for giant, tasty burritos. The Surf & Turf burrito is a fan favorite, as are the french fry-stuffed California burritos. The burritos come with chips and a variety of salsas so try them all to find your favorite.
Ballast Point (9045 Carroll Way) – Beer becomes elevated at the SD institution that is Ballast Point. While they do have other locations in Little Italy and Petco Park, this one at Miramar is my favorite for the chic decor and spacious interior. Be sure to opt for a flight of their many beers brewed onsite and sign up for their brewery tour to learn the history.
Kikos Place Seafood Food Truck (5494 Mission Center Road) – This favorite food truck with an unassuming exterior (to say the least) consistently ranks among the best food trucks in San Diego because of its fresh ingredients. Located in the parking lot of a gas station, there are a couple of makeshift tables set up to enjoy your food. The OG fish tacos, ceviche, and octopus tacos are all fan favorites. There are a couple of Kikos trucks in the San Diego area so be sure to check out all the locations to see which is most convenient for you.
Blue Water Seafood Market and Grill (3667 India Street) – Seafood really doesn't get much fresher than Blue Water. Offering a variety of fish and other seafood, choose your favorite and have it grilled, cut into sashimi, put into a taco, or made into a sandwich. The line is usually out the door, but it tends to move pretty quickly.
WHERE TO STAY
Manchester Grand Hyatt (1 Market Place) – The Manchester Grand really can't be beaten for its location. Located at the southern tip of downtown, you can literally walk out the back doors of the hotel into Seaport Village. Walk out the side doors, and you will find yourself at the Headquarters. Walk out the front doors, and downtown awaits. The rooms are pretty standard, but many offer breathtaking views of the water and the Coronado Bridge, as does the outdoor pool. The hotel does charge a steep resort fee, but unlike others, the fee includes perks you will be excited to use. The last time we stayed, the benefits included a 1-hour harbor tour, vouchers for bicycle and paddleboard rentals, and a small dining credit.
Loews Coronado Bay Resort (4000 Coronado Bay Road) – If you're looking for relaxation, look no further than Loews Coronado Bay Resort. Located at the very end of Coronado Island, it is a serene waterfront resort with views for days. The bayside suites are particularly fantastic with a patio opening right onto the water.
Comments