San Diego, California
Once a sleepy naval town, San Diego has transformed itself into a bustling, sun-washed jewel of the California coast. The city’s sleek skyline and Old Spanish missions offer a compelling contrast, while the most popular attractions are best enjoyed with a laid-back attitude and flip-flops. Breathtaking beaches abound, as do aquatic activities, botanical wonders and world-class animal parks. At day’s end, cliff-side trails provide an uninterrupted view of the Pacific Ocean sunset—spectacular, as always.
The Lowdown
Something Fishy: The scientist in me loves the Birch Aquarium at Scripps in La Jolla. All sorts of intriguing fish and invertebrates are on display there. I enjoy the aquarium so much that I volunteer as a guide on their whale-watching tours.
A Walk In The Park: Balboa Park is a peaceful retreat that has it all: museums, restaurants, a zoo, the Old Globe Theater, and let’s not forget the acres of eucalyptus and palm trees. I can bring my wife, kids, and parents and always have a great time.
Sight to Sea: Boating in San Diego Bay or Mission Bay is a fantastic way to appreciate the beauty of the city from a different vantage point. Seaforth Boat Rentals offers great deals on motorboats, sail boats, kayaks, and jet skis.
Thread Count
Prepare for a welcome as warm as the weather! With a central location in the heart of the financial district, Sè San Diego (877-515-2211) is equal parts high-tech and low-key, with exquisite Zen-inspired décor and commanding city views. Try Hotel Solamar (619-819-9500) for a boutique urban retreat in the Gaslamp Quarter, featuring fine dining and a first-rate pool deck. Cross the Coronado Bay Bridge to Hotel Del Coronado (619-435-6611), a not-to-be-missed Victorian landmark that boasts 19th-century luxury, a pristine beach, and a sumptuous Sunday brunch.
Food Fix
Proximity to the border and the ocean has served San Diego well. For a true and sophisticated taste of Mexico—no taco platters here—reserve a candlelit table at Candelas (619-702-4455). Seafood lovers can head to Zenbu (858-454-4540), serving everything from grilled swordfish to fresh sushi. Visit Mona Lisa Deli (619-234-4893) for delectable caprese sandwiches, and Bronx Pizza (619-291-3341) for New York-style pies with a side of attitude. Need a sugar fix? Learn why Extraordinary Desserts (619-294-7001) lives up to its name.
Night Out
John Lovitz Comedy Club at Aubergine (619-232-8100) is co-owned by the Saturday Night Live alum and delivers solid comedy—yeah, that’s the ticket—on Friday and Saturday nights. Dizzy’s (858-270-7467) caters to jazz aficionados, while Confidential Restaurant and Loft (619-696-8888) attracts hipsters with tapas and contemporary cool. The San Diego Opera (619-232-7636) may be an acquired taste, but consistently delivers soaring, ovation-worthy performances. For a bit more grit, visit Jewel Box (619-236-8685), a dive bar deservingly proud of its gruff appeal.
Don't Miss
Stroll through the Victorian charm of the Gaslamp Quarter, then head to Balboa Park—where 1,200 stunning acres of gardens, museums, and architectural wonders await. San Diego Zoo’s Wild Animal Park (760-747-8702) lets you drive among animals in their natural habitat, while Sea World (619-222-6363) is a must-do marine park for first-timers. The limestone bluffs of Torrey Pines State Reserve (858-755-2063) offer unmatched ocean views and the pristine sands of Mission Beach and La Jolla Shores are a sun-worshiper’s dream.
Stone's Throw
Point Loma peninsula boasts tide pools inhabited by starfish, sea anemones, and other exotic aquatics. Forty minutes north of downtown are the Flower Fields® at Carlsbad Ranch (760-431-0352), 50 acres of ranunculus blooms that splash ocean-facing hills with dazzling color. And no trip to the area is complete without an evening at the Belly Up Tavern (858-481-9022) in nearby Solana Beach, which is consistently voted San Diego’s top venue for live music.
On The Scene
In September, the sparkling shallows of La Jolla Cove become known as Shark City, a breeding area for docile leopard sharks. The spectacle can be best (and safely) viewed by snorkeling. The University of California San Diego campus also hides an unexpected outdoor treasure: singing and talking trees. Terry Allen’s 1986 art installation, “Trees,” was designed to regale passersby with music and poetry—but was recently reprogrammed to broadcast President Barack Obama’s inauguration.
Events - May & Jun 2009
Top national acts jam with talented locals on the street and in the Quarter’s hippest joints.
More than 40 live bands perform along every mile of this charity run to help racers and onlookers get their groove on.
See Spot surf for charity during the nation’s original surfing competition for man’s best friend.
