San Diego is California’s second largest city by resident count, falling only after Los Angeles. For such a populous, developed place, its soul has always been more beach town than big city. While it’s still a very much a beach-y, laid back destination, in the past decade or so, the urban aspects of San Diego’s identity have hatched and taken root, giving the city a more distinctive sense of place. Craft beer, Cali-Baja cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods top the to-do list now along with the classic surf and sun staples (and theme parks, if that’s your thing).
STAY in downtown if you want to be in the heart of the Gaslamp District’s buzzy action or take advantage of its central location to the airport and train station, beach communities and the cool, artsy neighborhoods. Kimpton’s Hotel Solamar is a solid option just steps away from tons of bars, shops, restaurants and Petco Park. On the same block, The Pendry Hotel is a new luxury hotel concept from the minds behind Montage Hotels & Resorts and the San Diego property will be the first to debut when it opens later this year. The Sofia Hotel is a budget-friendly option in the Gaslamp District, located in walking distance to the food and drink mecca of Little Italy. If you’re looking to splurge and get away from it all, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in North County is the place to check into. The impeccable hospitality, tranquil pool, decadent spa and spacious, private hideaway rooms have earned Rancho Valencia a glittering resume of well-deserved “Best Of” accolades and awards.
EATa lot of fish tacos. San Diego’s coastal location and proximity to Mexico has influenced its cuisine in the best of ways and nowhere else in California does fish tacos better. Locals consider Taco Surf Taco Shop in Pacific Beach one of the best in town (I can vouch for the wow-worthy blackened snapper tacos). Galaxy Taco in La Jolla Shores and Tacos Perla in North Park both serve up gourmet, contemporary takes on the taco as well as classic renditions. On the finer dining end of the Cali-Baja cuisine spectrum, try Bracero Cocina de Raiz in Little Italy. Beyond the tortilla, there are plenty of excellent dining options in San Diego for fine dining, taproom fare and a diversity of ethnic cuisines. If you find yourself in University Heights, stop by vegetarian and vegan friendly Plumeria Thai. In Hillcrest, Bread & Cie is a popular cafe for breakfast and lunch with a menu featuring their fresh-baked breads and pastries. On Coronado Island, Clayton’s Coffee Shop pours a staggeringly stellar cup of coffee to go with their old school diner style food. Back in Little Italy, Juniper & Ivy by Top Chef All Stars alum Richard Blais serves up a highly memorable, occasionally theatrical and utterly satisfying culinary experience for dinner.
DRINK craft beer. San Diego is the “Craft Beer Capital” of America with over 100 craft breweries and home to some of the most celebrated labels like Green Flash Brewing Co., Stone Brewing and Ballast Point. Check out Visit San Diego’s website for info on the breweries and tap rooms to plan tours and tastings or attend one of the many beer-centric events throughout the year.
Explore the evolving inland NEIGHBORHOODS and creative hubs of North Park, South Park, Hillcrest and University Heights, where locals live and play. The food, drink and retail scenes that cater to these communities have an independent-leaning spirit and you’ll feel like you’re getting off the beaten tourist path. For beach towns, La Jolla, Coronado Island and Del Mar are more upscale and refined while Pacific Beach, Mission Beach and Ocean Beach are grittier and more party-centric. They all have their charms so it’s just a matter of what flavor you’re in the mood for.
The mild climate in San Diego makes enjoying THE GREAT OUTDOORS a no-brainer. If you’re feeling slightly daring, head to Torrey Pines Glider Port for a tandem paragliding experience. The 20-minute flights are surprisingly serene for something so adventurous that even someone afraid of heights (yours truly) can enjoy—it’s well worth the $175 price tag to soar along the cliffs taking in the dramatic views of La Jolla and the beaches below. Learn to surf or paddleboard under the tutelage of Surf Divas based out of a surf shop in La Jolla Shores. Or just be a beach bum at La Jolla Shores or Windansea. If you stay downtown, rent a bike and take the ferry to Coronado for a spin around the island, which is also home to one of the top rated beaches in America and the historic Hotel Del Coronado. And don’t miss the gardens on a stroll through lush Balboa Park.
Add some ENTERTAINMENT to your itinerary by taking advantage of the steady stream of artists stopping in San Diego on their U.S. tours. The Casbah is the spot for indie and alternative rock. A San Diego icon, Humphrey’s is an intimate outdoor venue with bay views. Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach is another San Diego staple for live music of all genres. Baseball and football fans (or folks simply looking for an All American experience) have the San Diego Padres and San Diego Chargers seasons to tap into for a spectator sport experience.
