Oh, San Diego, my heart.
Is San Diego on your mind too?
Whenever someone mentions they have a trip planned or are even THINKING about going to southern California, I get SO excited to give them all of my recommendations.
I moved to California in the summer of 2015 as a travel ER nurse. I was lucky enough to land a spot with a company in San Diego and lived in the Little Italy district.
Shortly after moving to the area for that new assignment, I received a call from my Navy recruiter that my orders had come in. I was excited to finally become a Navy nurse, but I was also a little sad. I had only been in California for a few months and had JUST landed my dream job in San Diego.
Luckily, my detailer was able to assign me to Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, a half-hour north of SD, so that I could spend a bit more time on the west coast. Yay! All in all, I lived in SoCal for almost two years and love every. minute. of. it!
So, from someone who will always consider California her home away from home, here’s a quick, 10-tip insider’s guide to some of the top things to do (and where to eat!) in “America’s Finest City.”
1. Visit Coronado
Coronado is one of those places that once you visit you never want to leave. The neighborhoods are adorable, there’s a local brewery, cute shopping, and perfect beaches.
In the heart of Coronado is the Hotel del Coronado.
Even if you aren’t staying the night, the Del is a great place to pop in for a drink and to walk around the shops. Often, you’ll find sand sculptures along the shore in front of the hotel.
The hotel itself was built in 1888 and still holds all of that timeless beauty and a lot of history.
FUN FACT: THAT BEING SAID, FOR ANY OF YOU WHO ARE FASCINATED WITH THE MACABRE, THE DEL HAS OFTEN BEEN FEATURED ON GHOST HUNTER SHOWS AND IS LAUDED AS ONE OF THE MOST HAUNTED HOTELS IN AMERICA.
So, whether ghost hunting is your cup of tea or not, there’s a little something for everyone at the Del!
Another interesting fact about Coronado is that the public beach is sandwiched between an area where the US Navy SEALS training (known as BUDS) takes place and the US Navy Base.
For anyone in the military or who holds a military/dependent ID, you can use either beach. If you have access, these military beaches are often preferred locations as it is less crowded than the public areas.
Pro Tip: San Diego is obviously a large military town. If you are affiliated with the military in any way, be sure to ask for military discounts around town. With such a large active-duty population, there is a lot of money to be saved by cashing in on those discounts!
If you’re visiting Coronado, you have to stop in Seaside Papery. The shop sells trendy cards and paper products along with various other novelties. I stopped in every time I was on the island. It’s the cutest!
2. Stop by San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is arguably one of the most popular zoos in the nation–and rightfully so. It should be at the top of your list of places to visit while you’re in the area!
3. Explore Balboa Park
While you’re visiting the zoo, don’t forget to check out the rest of Balboa Park. With 17 museums and a variety of ongoing events, there is never a shortage of things to do in Balboa.
The botanical garden here is amazing. Also, if you’re just looking for a nice place to enjoy a walk or run, this is the perfect area for that too.
4. Eat your way through Little Italy
For all of you foodies out there, Little Italy is the place for you. But don’t let the name fool you. You’ll find a little bit of everything in this little borough.
Not only is there classic Italian food, but also seafood, Mexican, American, and even Australian fare.
I have written a whole post on some of the best cafes and restaurants you’ll find in this area. Check it out here.
Also, if you happen to be in town on a Saturday, the local farmer’s market is a must-see!
5. Daydream in La Jolla
A short drive north of San Diego will bring you to La Jolla.
An upscale shopping district with swanky neighborhoods, La Jolla will make you feel like you can’t afford to smell the air.
But don’t be intimidated. This is another great spot that has a little something for everyone, not to mention some of the best sunsets!
Take a kayaking tour of the coastline and hear how Dr. Seus himself lived in the area and got the inspiration for his book “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish” from a fish found in the local waters!
Whether by kayak or just taking a stroll, you’ll definitely want to explore the coastline and watch the sea lions sunbathing on the beaches and rocks.
6. Go out in Gaslamp District
You’ve probably heard of this area because Gaslamp is known for its nightlife. If you’re looking for fun bars and good food, you’ll find it here. However, because it is a popular tourist location, the area can be a little pricy. However, you’ll definitely have a good time wherever you end up.
Places to check out:
7. Continue your eating tour in North Park
Not far from Balboa, North Park is another great place for food and cute shops. Rally your friends and spend an evening trying out the eclectic restaurant scene–complete with ice cream flights from Hammond’s!
Places to check out:
Encontro North Park
8. Discover amazing Mexican food
SoCal is known for its Mexican food and they do it right. San Diego has undeniably some of the best Mexican food you can find. Here are some of my personal favorites:
Lucha Libre Taco Shop in Mission Hills– Get the California burrito and enjoy the fun luchador theme!
Cafe Coyote in Olde Town– Bring cash and try the fresh, hand-made tortillas as you wait to be seated.
Camino Riviera in Little Italy- Try to sit on the patio if possible. The restaurant is situated along the San Diego Airport route and you’ll be able to watch the planes pass overhead at a strikingly close distance!
Taco Stand in La Jolla- I often found myself taking detours from wherever I was previously headed to swing by the Taco Stand. Everything is so good!
9. Take a drive
Another great thing about visiting San Diego is the ability to explore other locations within a few hours’ drive. Tijuana Mexico is minutes south of the city. LA is about 2 hours north. Las Vegas is about 5 hours northeast. Yosemite National Park and Joshua Tree Nation Park are also within driving distance.
The great thing about southern California is there is a neverending list of things to do and new food to try. The weather is usually pretty nice–so nice that locals get really excited about thunderstorms when they do pass through. (I found myself in that category, too, when I lived there.)
Pro-tip: Don’t let the nice weather fool you. Evenings can get chilly. Be sure to pack a cardigan or a light jacket for your trip, even in the summer!
10. Get in touch!
Need help planning your trip? Comment below or shoot me an email!
Happy Travels, friends!
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