For a fun hike and a neat view of the coast, take an afternoon and hike (or golf) at Torrey Pines. There are a few trails to choose from to allow for a quick or extended hike.
Balboa Park is great for walking around and admiring the buildings, views and live music. If you're interested in attending museums, there are plenty here with something for everyone! Check on the Balboa Park website to learn more about free entry on certain days of the week.
If you're looking to rent stand up paddleboards, bikes, kayaks or beach gear, this is a great place that's walking distance to both the beach and the bay.
La Jolla is a fun beach town with shops, restaurants, bars and beaches. For views of sea life and sunsets, check out this area while you're here!
If you have access to a car or other form of transportation, we strongly recommend a day in Temecula Wine Country! It's one of the reasons we love Southern California so much and is only about an hour outside of San Diego.
Wilson Creek is just one of dozens on a long stretch of land that offers wine tastings, wine slush, tours and small bites. If you have the time, a stop through Temecula's wine country is a must!
Some of our favorite wineries include: Wilson Creek, Altisima, Europa, and Robert Renzoni Vineyards but they all have something unique to offer.
If you have a rental car, or decide to buy a train ticket for a trip up the coast, consider taking a day trip up to Carlsbad. There are nice shops, delicious restaurants and pristine public beaches with walkable trails and volleyball courts.
Two words...breakfast burritos. Kono's is a smaller breakfast location right on Pacific Beach with lines that form outside its door starting first thing in the morning but the food, prices and views can't be beat! Lines move quickly so don't be discouraged. There is a patio right across the walkway that overlooks the water, too!
A fun & unique atmosphere with great food and drinks along with a nod to New Zealand throughout the menu.
Do yourself a favor and try Carne Asada Fries at some point while you're in town! This one offers a great, casual option right by other shops and beaches.
Located right on a main strip of shops, restaurants and bars, Pacifica offers delicious dinner and drinks right across the street from Del Mar's beaches.
Some of the best ramen we've had! It's a tiny place so expect a waitlist and a line outside, but they move through it quickly and it's worth it. There's plenty to walk to in this area if you need to kill time.
You can't be from the midwest and not sample beer in San Diego. This was a spot we stopped at and really enjoyed, along with its surrounding neighborhood.
Delicious breakfast options from french toast to breakfast tacos!
A fun spot for lunch or dinner near Pacific Beach with fire pits, casual eating and views of the ocean.
Coasterra has delicious cocktails and great views of the San Diego skyline from the water.