Quick Beach Hotel Picks by Area

La Jolla (Luxury): La Valencia → Check price
Coronado (Family): Hotel del Coronado → View deals (often rated as one of the most romantic hotels in San Diego!)
Mission Bay (Budget/fun): Bahia Resort → Check availability

Of course, that depends on your preferences. Are you looking for a secluded beach for a romantic moment with stunning views? Or a beach for the kids with plenty of family-friendly activities and restaurants nearby? Or are you looking for adventure, hikes, and sports amenities to entertain you all day?

Quick Picks: Best San Diego Beaches

No matter what you are looking for, here are our recommendations for the best beaches in San Diego, recommended by a San Diego local.

14 Best Beaches in San Diego

Whether you are searching for the best family-friendly beach in San Diego, the best dog beaches in San Diego, tide pools, a fun spot to hang out with friends, or the best location to catch some waves, San Diego beaches make everyone happy. Here are some of our local favorite beaches in San Diego county.

Mission Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Sunbathing, Sports, Beach Bars

Mission Beach is one of my favorite Beaches in San Diego. My husband and I often come here for our runs. There is so much to do here, whether you want to learn how to surf, rent a bike to cruise along the boardwalk, relax in the sand, or watch the world go by with a cocktail in your hand at one of the beach bars.

? Mission Beach is great for families and larger groups who want to chill on the beach, be active, and have a good time.

Why Visit Mission Beach

• Wide, sandy beach with boardwalk
• Many sports amenities
• Fun bars and restaurants nearby
• Belmont Park Amusement Park

Good to Know

• Parking is free, but it fills up fast
• Holiday weekends can get crowded
• Belmont Park is free; only rides/games cost money

Best Experiences in Mission Beach

• Sunset Cruise from Mission Bay -> Check Availability
• Snorkel with a Marine Biologist → See available times

Best Hotels Near Mission Beach

• Bahia Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check price for your dates
• Beachfront rental → View availability

Where to Eat Nearby

• Moe’s Steak House (happy hour cheeseburger)
• The Mission (best brunch spot)

More Things to Do in Mission Beach

• Rent a Beach Cruiser and bike along the boardwalk
• Play Volleyball
• Learn to surf

Coronado Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Sunbathing, Upscale, Romantic Getaway

Coronado is an upscale peninsula overlooking downtown San Diego on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other side. It is known for its long and wide beach, stunning luxury hotels, and fantastic restaurants.

Coronado is SoCal’s version of the Hamptons; refined and relaxing!

Why Visit Coronado

• Stunning luxury hotels that will pamper you
• Small town vibe with big city amenities
• One of the best photo spots in San Diego Downtown

Good to Know

• Traffic to and from San Diego can be bad
• Not budget-friendly
• Free Parking is very limited
• Even if you don’t stay at the Hotel Del, walk through it and soak up the atmosphere

Best Experiences in Coronado

• Fat Woody Coronado Beach Cruiser Experience -> Book Now
• Gondola Cruise through the Coronado Cays -> Check Availability

Best Hotels in Coronado

• Hotel Del Coronado ⭐⭐⭐⭐ -> Reserve Now
• 1906 Lodge -> Check Current Deals

See more: Best Coronado Hotels

Where to Eat Nearby

• Peohe’s (stunning views of San Diego skyline + great happy hour)
• Little Frenchie (feels like you are in Paris)

See more: Best Coronado Restaurants

More Things to Do in Coronado

• Go shopping on Orange Avenue
• Take the ferry to San Diego
• Explore Coronado Ferry Landing

See full guide: Things to Do on Coronado Island

La Jolla Shores

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Families, Active

La Jolla Shores is the perfect Family Beach in San Diego, as well as a place for people who want to be active. There is plenty of space to spread out on this mile-long beach, the amenities are great, and there are a few family-friendly restaurants nearby.

Perfect for active Families looking for kayaking, hiking, and chilling on the beach

Why Visit La Jolla Shores

• Kayaking along the dramatic cliffs and sea caves
• Go Tidepooling
• Visit the Birch Aquarium

Good to Know

• Check the tide schedule before kayaking to the caves (or ask the tour operator for the best time to go)
• Parking is free, but it fills up fast on weekends and holidays

Best Experiences in La Jolla Shores

• Snorkel & kayak tour → Check availability
• Kayak sea cave tour → Book now

Best Hotels Near La Jolla Shores

• La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club -> Check availability now
• Hotel La Jolla -> Book now

If you are coming from out of town, take a look at these stunning La Jolla Hotels and La Jolla Vacation Rentals that will make your trip extra special.

Where to Eat Nearby

• Piatti (Italian fare + great service)
• Caroline’s Seaside Cafe (long wait, but stunning ocean views)

See more: Best La Jolla Brunch Spots

More Things to Do near La Jolla Shores

• Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
• Shopping & Galleries in La Jolla Village
• Hike Torrey Pines

See full guide: Things to Do in La Jolla

Silver Strand State Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Camping, RVs, quiet beach days

Silver Strand State Beach is the southern stretch of Coronado, connecting the peninsula to the mainland with miles and miles of uninterrupted sand. It’s where you go when you want the Coronado beach experience without the Hotel del crowds.

Limited amenities, almost no restaurants nearby, and a state-park entrance fee — but in exchange, you get one of the quietest beach experiences in San Diego County, plus genuine camping access right on the sand.

? The right pick if you want quiet, space, and the freedom to camp near the beach — not if you want bars and restaurants in walking distance.

Why Visit Silver Strand

• Miles of quiet, uninterrupted sand
• One of the only San Diego beaches with on-site camping
• Coronado vibe without the Hotel del crowds
• Calm enough water for families with kids who want fewer waves than the open Pacific

Good to Know

• State Park entrance fee for vehicles (current rate posted at the gate)
• Bring food and drinks with you — almost no restaurants in walking distance
• Holiday weekends fill up early; campsite reservations open months in advance

Best Experiences Near Silver Strand

• Coronado Island Segway tour → Book now
• San Diego Hop On/Hop Off Tour → Check availability

Best Hotels Near Silver Strand

• Loews Coronado Bay Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Book now
• Gaylord Pacific → Check availability now

Where to Eat Nearby

• Bluewater Boathouse – Fantastic Steak and Fish restaurant
• Coronado Village restaurants are a short drive north — see Best Coronado Restaurants

More Things to Do Near Silver Strand

• Beach camping and bonfires (with permit)
• Cycling the Silver Strand bike path north to Coronado
• Day trip to Tijuana via the bridge or border crossing — see our Cross Border Xpress guide

Pacific Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Nightlife, surfers, college crowd

Pacific Beach is where the college kids hang out. Along Grant and Garnet Street, you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs, cheap eateries, and fun coffee shops — and the beach itself has more of a party atmosphere than anywhere else in San Diego. During spring break, it becomes a full-on party town.

For surfers, Tourmaline Surf Park at the north end of Pacific Beach is surf-only, which makes it one of the better beaches in the city for beginners to learn without dodging swimmers.

? Great for a young crowd, surfers, and travelers who want bars and nightlife within walking distance — not the best fit if you want a family-friendly chill beach day.

Why Visit Pacific Beach

• Tourmaline Surf Park — one of the best beginner-surf spots in the city
• Walkable nightlife, bars, and cheap eats along Grant and Garnet
• The Crystal Pier is one of San Diego’s most photographed landmarks
• Reliable surf year-round

Good to Know

• Spring break and holiday weekends get rowdy — book early or stay elsewhere if you want quiet
• Free parking exists but is very limited; arrive early or plan to pay
• The beach itself is wide and sandy, but expect crowds during peak season

Best Experiences in Pacific Beach

• Surf Lessons → Book now
• Pacific Beach Bar Crawl → Check availability

Best Hotels Near Pacific Beach

• Tower23 Hotel ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Book Now
• Ocean Park Inn → Check Dates Now

Where to Eat Nearby

• PB Shore Club – Burgers, Beer, Sandwiches and more with a sports bar feel
• Oceana Coastal Kitchen – Upscale California cuisine

See more: Best Pacific Beach Bars

More Things to Do in Pacific Beach

• Walk or bike the boardwalk between Pacific Beach and Mission Beach
• Sunset drinks at one of the rooftop bars on Garnet
• Beginner surf lesson at Tourmaline

Torrey Pines State Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, hikers

Torrey Pines State Beach sits between La Jolla and Del Mar, with sandstone cliffs towering above it and the Torrey Pines State Reserve perched on top. It’s one of the most scenic stretches of coast in San Diego, and one of the few where you can walk all the way to Del Mar from the south end.

If you feel like a hike, you can climb up to the preserve from the beach — the view from the top is stunning, and on a lucky day you’ll spot whales or, like my husband and I once did, a Great White cruising the shoreline. I didn’t go back in the water for a few weeks after that.

? The right pick for travelers who want a beach day combined with a scenic hike — not a casual sunbathe-and-go destination.

Why Visit Torrey Pines

• Some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in California
• Direct access to the Torrey Pines State Reserve hiking trails
• Long, wide beach — you can walk all the way to Del Mar from here
• Whale-watching potential from the cliffs above

Good to Know

• One of the most popular hikes in San Diego — avoid weekends if you don’t like crowds
• State Park entrance fee for vehicles, or paid street parking on the south end
• The hike from the beach up to the preserve is steep; wear real shoes, not flip-flops

Best Experiences at Torrey Pines

• Kayak sea cave tour (from nearby La Jolla) → Book your experience now
• Slot Canyon Hike at Torrey Pines → Reserve my spot

Best Hotels Near Torrey Pines

• The Lodge at Torrey Pines ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Reserve your room now
• Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines → Book now

These hotels are on the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course on a bluff overlooking the ocean — not on the beach itself.

Where to Eat Nearby

• Cliff Hanger Café – Casual Sandwich Shop overlooking the ocean.
• The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurants (open to non-guests for dinner) — verify hours

More Things to Do at Torrey Pines

• Hike the Torrey Pines State Reserve trails
• Play a round at the Torrey Pines Golf Course (book well ahead)
• Visit the Birch Aquarium in nearby La Jolla
• Find the Secret Swings on the cliffs (locals know where)

Del Mar North Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Photography, off-leash dogs (winter), small-group beach days

Del Mar North Beach is one of those small San Diego beaches that locals know about and visitors usually miss. It’s tucked between rocky cliffs and shaped by an inlet that makes for great photos — we had our family photos taken there (the picture above is from that day).

In winter, dogs are allowed off-leash, which is rare for San Diego. In summer the leash requirement kind of defeats the purpose of a dog beach, so we save Del Mar North for the off-season.

? A photogenic, intimate beach with a strong dog-beach angle in winter — be cautious of rip currents from the inlet year-round.

Why Visit Del Mar North

• One of the most photogenic small beaches in San Diego
• Off-leash dog beach in winter months
• Beautiful rock formations and cliff backdrop
• Genuinely quieter than the more famous SD beaches

Good to Know

• Rip currents are common because of the inlet — be careful, especially with kids
• Dogs must be on-leash in summer; off-leash allowed in winter (check current Del Mar city rules)
• Parking is paid street parking only — no dedicated lot
• No amenities on the beach itself

Best Experiences Near Del Mar

• Carlsbad Food Tour → Check availability

Best Hotels Near Del Mar North

• L’Auberge Del Mar ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Book today
• Del Mar Beach Hotel → Check dates now

Where to Eat Nearby

• Coya Peruvian Secret – amazing ceviche
• L’Auberge Del Mar restaurants (Kitchen 1540, Coastline) — open to non-guests

More Things to Do in Del Mar

• Walk the Del Mar bluff trail
• Shop in Del Mar Village
• Day at the Del Mar Racetrack (summer season)

Shell Beach La Jolla

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Sunsets, tide pools, ocean views

Shell Beach is one of the cutest little beaches in La Jolla — small, right in the heart of the village, and stunning at sunset. It’s not really a sunbathing or swimming beach; the appeal is in dipping your toes in the water while exploring the area, watching the sea lions on the rocks nearby, and catching the golden-hour light on the cliffs. When the tide is out, the tide pools fill with crabs and tiny critters that kids love finding.

? A small, gorgeous beach for sunsets, photography, and tide-pool exploring — not where you go to lay out a towel for the day.

Why Visit Shell Beach

• One of the best sunset spots in La Jolla
• Tide pools full of crabs and marine life at low tide
• Walking distance to La Jolla Cove, the shops, and galleries
• Genuinely picturesque — strong photo opportunities

Good to Know

• Not a sunbathing or swimming beach — small and rocky
• Free parking in the village is very limited during peak season
• Check the tide schedule for tide-pool exploring; low tide is the window
• Bring sturdier shoes than flip-flops for the rocks

Best Experiences in La Jolla

• Snorkel & Kayak tour → Check Dates
• Kayak sea cave tour → Book now

Best Hotels Near Shell Beach

• La Valencia ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check Dates
• Pantai Inn → Book Now

Where to Eat Nearby

• See Best La Jolla Restaurants for the full list of our favorites within walking distance

More Things to Do in La Jolla

• See the famous La Jolla sea lions
• Sunset drinks at George’s at the Cove
• Shopping and galleries in La Jolla Village
• Find the Secret Swings on the cliffs

Ocean Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Hippie vibe, surfers, dog beach

I love how Ocean Beach has distinct sections for surfers, swimmers, and dogs — that way everyone gets to enjoy the beach without getting in each other’s way.

On the northern end, right by the parking lot, there’s a huge off-leash dog beach. Our dog Robby loves it. After the beach we walk him to the showers, rinse him off, and take the walk/bike path along the inlet until he’s dried out.

OB is the hippie beach town in San Diego — chill, relaxed, perfect for groups and families. Near the pier you can catch some great waves; in the center you can swim, play, or just sit in the sand.

? A genuinely relaxed, hippie-flavored beach with one of the best dog beaches in San Diego and reliable surf near the pier.

Why Visit Ocean Beach

• Dedicated off-leash dog beach at the northern end
• Distinct sections for surfers, swimmers, and dogs — no overlap conflict
• Chill, hippie vibe — different from the rest of San Diego’s beach towns
• Reliable surf near the pier; quieter swimming area in the center

Good to Know

• Free parking exists but is very limited during peak season — arrive early
• The dog beach is genuinely off-leash all year (rare for San Diego)
• The pier is one of the longest concrete piers on the West Coast — walk it at sunset
• Some areas can feel rough at night; stay aware after dark

Best Experiences in Ocean Beach

• Ocean Beach Walking Tour → Check Dates

Best Hotels Near Ocean Beach

• The Inn at Sunset Cliffs ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check Dates
• Ocean Beach Hotel → Book Now

Where to Eat Nearby

• OB Noodle House – Asian fare with a pub food feel
• Hodad’s – Fantastic Burger spot (take it to go and eat at the beach)

More Things to Do in Ocean Beach

• Walk the OB Pier at sunset
• Sunset Cliffs hike just south of OB
• Wednesday Farmers Market on Newport Avenue
• Take Robby — or any dog — to the off-leash beach

Mission Bay

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Young kids, water sports, fire-pit nights

Mission Bay is perfect for families with small children. There are practically no waves, the water is shallow and warm, and there’s plenty of shady grass nearby to escape the midday heat. It’s also a paradise for paddleboarders, kayakers, and windsurfers who don’t want to battle ocean surf. At night the fire pits along the bay come alive — locals and tourists pull up for bonfires, beach hangs, and s’mores. It’s the closest you’ll come to a calm-water lake experience in San Diego, with all the amenities of being right in the city.

? The single best San Diego beach choice for families with toddlers — and a favorite local spot for fire-pit nights with friends.

Why Visit Mission Bay

• Calm, shallow, warm water — perfect for toddlers and beginner swimmers
• Fire pits along the bay for sunset bonfires (first-come, first-served)
• Excellent for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing
• Grassy shaded areas for picnics and cool-downs

Good to Know

• Fire pits fill up fast on summer weekends — arrive early to claim one
• Free parking exists but is limited during peak season
• Sea World is right around the corner if you want to add an attraction day
• The water is warm enough for swimming most of the year

Best Experiences in Mission Bay

• San Diego Sunset Cruise from Mission Bay → Check Availability
• Snorkel Mission Bay with a Marine Biologist → Book Now

Best Hotels Near Mission Bay

• Bahia Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check price
• Beachfront vacation rental → View availability

Where to Eat Nearby

• The Mission – One of the best breakfast/brunch places in San Diego
• Cannonball Sushi — yummy rolls and stunning ocean views

More Things to Do at Mission Bay

• Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or windsurfer
• Beach bonfire with s’mores at sunset
• Belmont Park amusement park (steps away from the bay)
• Visit Sea World (right next door)

Windansea Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Photography, sunsets, experienced surfers

Windansea is a hidden gem on this list — a mix of soft sand and dramatic rocky boulders that makes for some of the most photogenic beach scenery in San Diego. If you’re into photography, head here at golden hour or sunset; the light on the rocks is genuinely stunning.

The waves at Windansea hit just right, which is why it’s been a favorite surf spot for decades. The famous palm-covered surf shack at the south end is a historic landmark — and a great photo backdrop.

? The single best San Diego beach for sunset photography — and a serious surf spot, not a casual swimming beach.

Why Visit Windansea

• Some of the most photogenic beach scenery in San Diego
• The historic palm-covered surf shack at the south end
• Reliable, well-formed waves popular with experienced surfers
• Genuinely uncrowded compared to nearby La Jolla Cove

Good to Know

• Mostly rocky — not the right pick for sunbathing or a kids’ beach
• Surf is for experienced surfers; not a beginner-friendly break
• Bathrooms aren’t right at the beach — plan accordingly
• Street parking only, and very limited during peak season

Best Experiences in La Jolla

• Snorkel & Kayak tour → Check Dates
• Kayak Sea Cave tour → Book My Spot Now

Best Hotels Near Windansea

• The Shoal ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → [Reserve My Room Now] (generate a dedicated Stay22 link — currently shares Pantai Inn’s URL in the article, which is the duplicate I flagged)
• Spanish-Style Casa (up to 6 people) → Check Dates Now

Where to Eat Nearby

• See Best La Jolla Restaurants for our full list of recommendations within walking distance

More Things to Do at Windansea

• Sunset photography session
• Watch the surfers from the rocks
• Walk south along the coast toward Bird Rock
• Visit the La Jolla sea lions — short drive north

Solana Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Quieter beach day, easy day trip from San Diego

Solana Beach technically isn’t San Diego — but we let it slide because it’s so nice, and getting there from San Diego is easy by car or even by the Coaster commuter train.

The beautiful sandstone cliffs are the visual signature here, and the view from the bluff above is even better than from the sand. One block up from the beach you’ll find the restaurants, bars, shops, and cafés that make Solana Beach a real little beach town, not just a strip of sand.

? The right pick for a slower-paced beach day with walkable restaurants and shopping — easy to combine with Cardiff or Encinitas on a North County coast day.

Why Visit Solana Beach

• Beautiful sandstone cliffs as the backdrop
• Walkable to restaurants, bars, and shops one block from the beach
• Easy day trip from San Diego by car or Coaster train
• Quieter than the more famous San Diego city beaches

Good to Know

• Street parking only, and limited during peak season
• The Coaster train runs from downtown SD to Solana Beach — a stress-free option
• Combine with nearby Cardiff or Encinitas for a full North County coast day

Best Experiences in Solana Beach

• Beach Cruiser Bike Rental (all day) → Reserve My Bike Now
• Encinitas Food Tour → Book now

Best Hotels in Solana Beach

• Cardiff by the Sea Lodge ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check Availability
• Winners Circle → Book Now

Where to Eat Nearby

• Pizza Port – Pizza and Beer, the most magical combination
• Pacific Coast Grill – Seafood and Seaviews

More Things to Do in Solana Beach

• Walk the Solana Beach bluff trail
• Drive a few minutes north to Cardiff or Encinitas
• Shop the Cedros Avenue Design District
• Sunset drinks at one of the bluff-top restaurants

Black’s Beach San Diego

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Adventurous, clothing-optional, experienced surfers

Black’s Beach is the only nudist beach in San Diego — clothing optional, not required. You don’t have to go naked, but you can. (I’ll admit I’ve only been to the very edge so far.) Black’s sits just below the Torrey Pines Gliderport, and getting there isn’t easy.

The shortest route is the Gliderport trail, which is steep enough that you should wear real shoes, not flip-flops. You can also walk in from Torrey Pines State Park or La Jolla Shores, depending on the tide. The waves are excellent — Black’s is one of the most respected surf spots in California — but the swim back to shore is no joke.

? Adventurous, dramatic, and clothing-optional — not a casual or family beach. Plan the access route carefully and watch the tide.

Why Visit Black’s Beach

• One of California’s most respected surf spots
• Dramatic cliff backdrop, genuinely off the beaten path
• The only clothing-optional beach in San Diego
• Quieter than other La Jolla beaches because of the access

Good to Know

• The Gliderport trail is steep — wear sturdy shoes, not flip-flops
• Access via Torrey Pines State Park or La Jolla Shores depends on the tide; check before you go
• No amenities of any kind — bring everything you need (water, sunscreen, food)
• Clothing-optional is the cultural norm; comfort level varies by visitor

Best Experiences in La Jolla

• Kayak sea cave tour → Book My Spot now
• Slot Canyon Hike → Check availability

Best Hotels Near Black’s Beach

• The Lodge at Torrey Pines ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check availability now
• Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines → Book now

These hotels sit on the Torrey Pines Golf Course bluff overlooking the ocean — not on the beach itself.

Where to Eat Nearby

• Cliff Hanger Café – casual sandwich spot at the Glider Port
• The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurants (open to non-guests)

More Things to Do at Black’s Beach

• Watch the hang gliders launch from the Torrey Pines Gliderport
• Hike the Torrey Pines State Reserve trails
• Sunset on the cliffs above
• Long walk south to La Jolla Shores at low tide

Where to Stay in San Diego for Your San Diego Beach Getaway

Quick Hotel Picks by Area

Solana Beach (Small Beach Town): Cardiff by the Sea Lodge -> Book My Escape
Pacific Beach (Young Crowd/Spring Break): Tower23 Hotel -> Reserve My Room Now
Ocean Beach (Budget/Hippie): The Inn at Sunset Cliffs -> Check My Dates

La Jolla

If I could just pick one San Diego Beach town, I would hands down recommend La Jolla. La Jolla has luxury accommodations, cute beach-cottage vacation rentals, fantastic restaurants, shopping, and galleries, and the beaches are top-notch. From the wide, sandy beaches in La Jolla Shores to surfers’ paradise at Windansea Beach, there is something for everyone.

La Jolla is also perfect if you like to do more than just lie on the beach. Enjoy a breathtaking hike down the cliffs of Torrey Pines, go kayaking in the sea caves, or snorkel with sea lions in La Jolla Cove. And the sunsets overlooking the Ocean from Shell Beach make for the best end of every beach day in La Jolla.

Mission Beach & Mission Bay

Mission Beach and Mission Bay are my top recommendations if you are traveling with kids. Mission Beach is perfect for older kids and teens, while Mission Bay is fantastic for families with young kids and toddlers. Belmont Park, a small amusement park right by the beach, is the perfect spot for some fun family time with arcades, games, rides, and cotton candy.

You are just minutes from Downtown and all the top attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway, Balboa Park, and the Maritime Museum. Sea World is also just around the corner.

Coronado

I always see Coronado as a SoCal version of the Hamptons. Beachy luxury that is classy yet laid back at the same time. You’ll find beautiful hotels, great restaurants, and a small-town feel, despite being right in the middle of San Diego.

You get the convenience of all the cool things a big city has to offer, but without the hustle and bustle. Explore San Diego attractions during the day and then head back to Coronado for some relaxing island time. Time really flows differently on Coronado. You’ll see when you get there.

Pacific Beach & Ocean Beach

If you are looking for a younger crowd, cheaper accommodations, fun beach bars, and a thriving nightlife, I highly recommend you stay in either Pacific Beach or Ocean Beach.

Pacific Beach is super popular among San Diego college kids, and you will find many bars, cheap restaurants, and a beach with a party atmosphere. Spring Break and Holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, or the 4th of July can get pretty wild here.

Ocean Beach is known as the Hippie Beach, and you’ll find plenty of Van-lifers, tie-die enthusiasts, and, in general, a very chill crowd there. Definitely add a hike along Sunset Cliffs to your itinerary if you are staying here.

I hope you liked our little list of the best beaches in San Diego and found one to try on your next beach day. What is your favorite beach in San Diego?

Best Beaches in San Diego – Pin for Later:

Last Updated on June 21, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post 14 Best San Diego Beaches: A Local’s Complete Guide [2026] appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Explore La Jolla

The vibrant upscale community of San Diego has always attracted surfers, beach-goers, and nature lovers, along with the rich and famous. Everyone falls in love with La Jolla, even the local San Diegans. As a resident of America’s finest city, I can definitely say that every family member or friend who comes visiting has La Jolla on their to-do list. And for good reason.

?Top Rated Hotel in La Jolla

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Book this beachfront boutique hotel with 230 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Reviews on Booking!

Check Prices Here

Also read:
La Jolla, California – Ultimate Guide by a Local
Best Beach Houses for Rent in San Diego
Best Vacation Rentals in La Jolla – Best Deals for Every Budget
Best La Jolla Restaurants
Best La Jolla Brunch Spots
Best Spots to Watch the La Jolla Seals & Sea Lions
8 Adventurous Kayaking Tours in La Jolla

The town celebrates a rich history steeped in the whimsical tales of Dr. Seuss and classic Hollywood. Its picture-perfect weather, awe-inspiring vistas, stunning beach houses, fascinating tide pools, and churning azure waters are forever a draw. Mix in a charming walkable village with delightful shops, and delectable places to brunch and dine, and it’s no wonder La Jolla provides a unique, magical experience.

For those planning a trip here, or for locals longing for a perfect staycation getaway, La Jolla is the place to be. But to get the true experience for all the amazing things to see and do in this beachside resort town, staying at one of these magnificent La Jolla Hotels is a must.

Best La Jolla Hotels – Where to Stay in La Jolla

Pantai Inn 

1003 Coast Blvd S, La Jolla, CA 92037
5-Star Hotel|$$$$|Complimentary WiFi, On-Site Breakfast & Parking 
+1 (858) 224-7600
Book here

Pantai Inn, a 30-room seaside boutique hotel is one of La Jolla’s best oceanfront resorts. Its relaxed, warm atmosphere, attention to detail, and top-notch service are hallmarks of Pantai providing guests a royal experience.

Accommodations and grounds of the historic early 1900s property reflect the beauty and culture of Indonesia with impeccable intricate detail. Statues, tumbling waterfalls, tropical plants, and teak wood furnishings transport guests to exotic Bali in Southeast Asia.   

The inn is considered the perfect romantic getaway. Honeymoon and romance packages are available, and the inn is a popular venue for destination weddings. But this enchanted property is also family-friendly and the ideal place for girls’ getaways.

Pantai Inn’s amenities and services include complimentary lobby drinks and snacks, an impressive deluxe continental breakfast, and outdoor seating with ocean view fire pits.

Each room has unique custom furnishings, all hand-selected and imported from Bali. Room types offer a kitchenette or a full kitchen, and a fireplace. Bathrooms are equipped with plush robes, rainfall showers, luxury towels, and high-end bath products. Guests in oceanfront rooms are lulled to sleep by the nearby crashing waves. Compare Prices Here>>

Scripps Inn La Jolla Cove

555 Coast Blvd S, La Jolla, CA 92037
4-Star Hotel|$$$|Complimentary WiFi|
+1 (888) 387-9907
Book here

Another boutique property just steps from La Jolla’s world-renowned beaches is the Scripps Inn La Jolla Cove. This warm and charming inn with its colorful bougainvillea represents quintessential Southern California charm in a laid-back, intimate setting. It’s so easy to fall in love with this inn—one of La Jolla’s best-kept secrets.

The 14-room, two-floor property features one and two-bedroom deluxe rooms and suites with quaint seating areas, some with kitchenettes and fireplaces. Each is well-appointed with beach-inspired décor. An outdoor terrace is the perfect place to share a bottle of wine or champagne and toast a Pacific sunset. 

Rooms are not air-conditioned but do have ceiling fans and additional pedestal fans if needed. However, due to the Scripps Inn’s prime location directly across from the ocean, Pacific breezes are enough, and sounds of the ocean waves will lull you into a peaceful slumber.

Paid parking is available on site, though guests may choose to park in nearby street areas at no charge. The top benefit of this property is its ideal location for some of the area’s best tide-pooling. Compare Prices Here>>

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Address: 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: (858) 453-4420
Website

A much-loved San Diego 5-star hotel, The Lodge at Torrey Pines, goes above and beyond to ensure guests have a top-tier stay. But Golfers aren’t the only ones who’ll find the Lodge to their liking!

Set alongside the immaculate Torrey Pines Golf Course, spend your mornings practicing your swing before catching a quick 10-minute ride to Torrey Pines Nature Preserve. If you wish to explore a little more of San Diego during your vacation, reach La Jolla in just 15 minutes by car, or head a bit further south to the downtown area.

The Lodge manages to strike a balance between luxe and homely, with a warm ambiance. With plenty of large rooms on offer, families will have their pick of comfortable and spacious suites. 

As one of the most sought-after wedding venues in San Diego, the Lodge is also well accustomed to catering to couples in search of an intimate getaway.

Bounce between fine dining and casual eats at the two on-site restaurants. Choose to dine indoors or enjoy your meal al fresco on the patio, where you’ll be treated to enviable views of the Pacific Ocean each evening.

The full-service spa offers seasonal packages that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, or opt to spend your days lounging poolside. Coordinated fitness classes, a modern gym, and bike rentals are available for guests looking to stay active during their visit.

Couples or small families will love the signature rooms here. Rooms are kitted out with hardwood furnishings, chic marble bathrooms, and the finest Egyptian cotton bed linen on the market. Most feature a spacious balcony or a terrace overlooking the golf course or the courtyard.

Elevate your visit with a stay in one of the Lodge’s expansive suites. These feature everything you could possibly ask for, from fully stocked kitchens with the latest appliances and toasty fireplaces to roomy living areas and Jacuzzi bathtubs!

Additionally, those traveling with pets will be happy to know The Lodge at Torrey Pines is pet-friendly. Compare prices here>>

Grande Colonial Hotel

910 Prospect St., La Jolla, CA 92037
4-star|$$$|Restaurant|Pool|Complimentary Coffee|Free Parking|Accessible
+1 (888) 828-5498
Book here

A 97-room boutique hotel, La Jolla’s Grande Colonial is the seaside town’s oldest original lodging. Opened in 1913, the classic European-designed inn was a temporary home to many of Hollywood’s up-and-coming stars performing at the La Jolla Playhouse. Famous actors like Charlton Heston, Dorothy McGuire, Jane Wyatt, and Groucho Marks graced this historic hotel situated just steps from the ocean.

It’s delightful yellow-painted building set on a corner with blue and white striped awnings remains an iconic landmark in the heart of La Jolla village. The casual, elegant hotel lobby is stunning with its perfectly appointed furnishings, warm ambiance, and magnificent fireplace.   

Accommodations at the hotel include village, garden, and ocean view rooms and suites, studio and suite vacation rentals with all the amenities of a private residence. Soft goose-down comforters sit atop Serta iComfort Eurotop mattresses, guaranteeing guests a comfortable night’s rest. Bathrooms provide plush bathrobes and high-end Gilchrist & Soames bath and beauty products. 

Grande Colonial also sports the award-winning restaurant NINE-TEN with farm-to-table seasonal California cuisine now served al fresco on the patio.  

A $20 per night hospitality charge covers high-speed internet, poolside towel and water service, beach gear (towels, chairs, and umbrellas), use of hotel bicycles, guest pass to the nearby La Jolla Sports Club, and 10% discount on food and beverages at NINE-TEN. Compare prices here>>

La Jolla Shores Hotel

8110 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037
3-Star|$$|Pool|Restaurant|Beachfront|Accessible
+1 (858) 459-4461
Book here

Unlike the above-mentioned La Jolla hotels, which are all located within La Jolla Village, La Jolla Shores Hotel is nestled on one of the most beautiful beaches on the San Diego coast. This means surfing, kayaking, or boogie-boarding are just a few sand-covered footsteps away. The hotel is ideal for a perfect throwback Americana beach vacation, and it’s extremely family-friendly to boot. This makes it quite popular for family and friend reunions. It’s no surprise that guests vacationing here return again and again.

128 casual beach-themed guestrooms are infused with the laid-back spirit of California, offering lush gardens, a pool, and scenic coastal or beachfront views with a private patio or balcony. 19 rooms include kitchenettes. A relaxing heated outdoor courtyard pool and Jacuzzi, tennis courts, ping-pong tables, and a fitness center are on-site. 

Beach crews are available to set up umbrellas, chairs, and towels for guests at the La Jolla Shores Hotel. Unlimited WiFi, shuttle service around the local area, seasonal games and activities, and free DVD rentals are available with an amenity fee of $20 per night.

Beachside views meet the perfect bites at the resort’s spectacular The Shores Restaurant. This oceanfront hacienda-style eatery with indoor and open-air dining serves fresh, sustainable, seasonal California-coastal-inspired entrees and beachy-themed libations.  Compare Prices here>>

La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club

2000 Spindrift Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037
3-Star|$$$|Pool|Private Beach|Restaurant|Accessible
+1 (888) 828-0948
Book here

One of the region’s most timeless beach resorts, La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club is a landmark oceanfront hotel. Despite serving guests for over 80 years, it remains one of La Jolla’s treasures and best-kept secrets.

The casually elegant, relaxing, well-appointed beach-themed hotel features guestrooms, studio suites, and cottages with a picturesque interior, golf course, or sweeping ocean views. Room amenities include complimentary WiFi, Starbucks coffee products, and spa-style soft cotton bathrobes.

Guests have access to a beach complete with beach loungers and umbrellas, a tennis shop, 12 championship tennis courts, a par-3 nine-hole golf course, a bocce ball court, and ping-pong tables. An outdoor heated swimming pool, children’s pool, playground, and fitness center round out the resort’s impressive amenities.  Lastly, it’s important to note there is no resort fee here.

One of the best aspects of staying at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club is dining at the Marine Room, one of San Diego’s most beloved restaurants. Dining at high tide lets guests watch waves crash against its panoramic window while enjoying ocean, cove, and sunset views. Resort guests can also have oceanfront patio dining at their sister eatery, The Shores Restaurant.  Compare prices here>>

La Valencia Hotel

1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA, 92037
4-Star|$$$$|Restaurant and Lounge, Pool, Poolside Bar|Pet-Friendly|Accessible
(855) 476-6870
Book here

You can’t miss this beautiful, iconic pink lady in the heart of La Jolla village. The historic La Valencia Hotel, built in 1926 has housed many Hollywood elite over the years providing the perfect escape getaway.  

Perched high on the magnificent cliffs of overlooking scenic Ellen Browning Scripps Park, the 114-room hotel touts awe-inspiring Pacific Ocean views from many of its rooms, restaurants, and bars. With its classic Spanish old-world ambiance and magnificent legacy of restoration, it’s of no surprise this elegant lady is a charter member of the Historic Hotels of America. Walking into its enchanting lobby is like entering an enchanting European Mediterranean inn.

La Valencia offers four elegantly distinctive room types. Vintage features lovely Euro-style bathrooms, and the Classic provides luxury bathrooms with chic bath amenities. The luxurious and spacious Villas sport Jacuzzi tubs. The Icon Suites are the height of luxury with sweeping ocean vistas. Soft luxury bedding in every room makes sleeping a dream.  

Swaying palms and colorful bougainvillea surround the ocean-view pool. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner outdoor dining is currently available on the Ocean View Terrace featuring rich Mediterranean influences with re-imagined California coastal cuisine. A $39 per night resort fee includes parking, beach towels, a fitness center, a daily newspaper, high-speed internet, and business services. Compare prices here>>

A sign in one of La Jolla’s quaint boutiques reads, “There is a little bit of paradise built into every day. You just have to find it.” And find it you will in the enchanting town of La Jolla.

Best Hotels in La Jolla – Pin for Later:

Last Updated on June 21, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post 7 Best Luxury & Beachfront La Jolla Hotels (2026) appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Hordes of tourists may make some cautious about a trip to San Diego in July, but trust us; it’s worthwhile. Exciting outdoor events like the 4th of July, Comic Con, glowing sandy beaches in La Jolla, and Del Mar racing season are all well worth it.

Read on for the best of San Diego in July, including top events, weather, and what to wear.

Things To Do In San Diego In July

July Events & Festivals in San Diego

The Fourth Of July Celebrations

When: July 4th, 2026
Where: Everywhere in San Diego
Read our Top Tips for the 4th of July in San Diego here

Fourth of July is an exciting day in the US, as it’s the country’s Independence Day, and boy, does San Diego throw a big party. But this year, for the 250th birthday of the United States, the show will be even bigger.

There’s so much happening in San Diego on the Fourth of July. Events include the fascinating Big Boom Bay fireworks display, Crown City Classic Race, Run & Ride event, Annual Rough Water Swim, and much more. 

There’s no way you can see it all, you’re best off choosing just an event or two to properly enjoy.

Big Bay Boom

When: July 4th, 2026
Where: The Port of San Diego
Website

We’ve already noted some Fourth of July events above, but the Big Bay Boom deserves a section of its own. This is one of the city’s most popular fireworks displays that everyone wants to see on Independence Day. 

Find yourself a nice vantage point and watch the fireworks fly into the sky from places like Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, the bay off Shelter Island, Marina District, and Coronado Ferry Landing.

There’s no entry fee. Just be sure to show up before 9 PM for a good spot.

Comic-Con International San Diego

When: July 23 – July 26, 2026
Where: San Diego Convention Center
Website

You definitely don’t want to miss out on Comic-Con International, hosted at the convention center in downtown San Diego. Collaborate with like-minded comic book fans and discover the latest pop culture trends at one of America’s largest events.

Immerse yourself in the complete comic experience. Wander through the huge exhibit hall with stands featuring your favorite magazines, join educational workshops, and listen to presentations from big names in the comic world.

Tickets for the four-day event must be purchased online beforehand, and they’re limited, so act fast. But even if you don’t have tickets, it is fun to check out downtown during Comic Con to see the amazing Cosplay artists and open events and exhibits all over the city. Read our full guide on things to do during Comic Con if you don’t have a ticket.

The Del Mar Racing Season

When: July 17 – September 7, 2026
Where: Del Mar Thoroughbred Club
Website

Take a break from the beach and watch some horse racing at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. The Del Mar Racing Season has been a huge part of summers in San Diego for decades, and it only gets more popular as the years go on.

Gather your buddies and witness some of the country’s top jockeys and thoroughbreds battle it out for top prizes. Opening Day is one of the most popular events, with ticket holders dressing up in their finest and placing big bets.

Attendees have two ticket options: buy a day pass or a season pass. Choose whichever suits you.

Over-The-Line Annual Tournament

When: July 11/12 (Mens) & July 18/19, 2026 (Womens)
Where: Mission Bay
Website

Are you ready for the 73rd Annual World Championship Over-the-Line (OTL) Tournament? Watch over 1,000 teams take to the beach to battle it out for the top spot. For anyone who doesn’t know, Over-the-Line is a bat-and-ball sport where participants must whack the ball over the opposing team’s field to score points. 

Each morning, the first game kicks off at 7:30 AM sharp for the men’s tournament and at 9 AM for the women. Games then run throughout the day at various times, so you can always pop in and out as you please.

Anyone who isn’t participating won’t have to pay an entrance fee. However, if you’re planning on entering a team, fees apply.

Things to Do Any Time in July

The festivals and events in July in San Diego are the headline act, but San Diego’s classic attractions are at their absolute best in July — sunny, warm, and made for being outdoors. Here are the ones worth building a day around, no specific date required.

Soak Up the Sun at the Beach

July is peak beach season in San Diego, and with 70 miles of coastline, you’re spoiled for choice. Ocean temperatures climb to a swimmable 68°F or so this month, so it’s finally warm enough to spend the whole day in and out of the water.

For families, La Jolla Shores is hard to beat — gentle waves, soft sand, and plenty of room to spread out. If you want the boardwalk-and-bustle experience, head to Mission Beach or Pacific Beach. Surfers and sunset-watchers love Ocean Beach, while Coronado Beach serves up those postcard views with the Hotel del Coronado as a backdrop. For something quieter, the bluffs at Torrey Pines State Beach are stunning, and up north, you’ll find the beautiful beaches of Carlsbad. Traveling with a pup? We’ve rounded up the best dog beaches in San Diego, too.

One July tip: parking lots fill up fast on summer weekends, so arrive before 10 AM or be prepared to walk a few blocks. For the full rundown, see our guide to the best beaches in San Diego.

Visit the World-Famous San Diego Zoo

When: Anytime
Where: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Balboa Park)
Website

No trip to San Diego is complete without a day at the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Spread across 100 lush acres in Balboa Park, it’s home to thousands of animals, from elephants and polar bears to the much-loved giant pandas.

July is one of the best months to go, because the Zoo extends its hours for the summer Nighttime Zoo — live entertainment, a lively atmosphere, and cooler evening temperatures that bring the animals out to play. To make the most of your visit, buy your tickets online in advance and arrive early to beat both the crowds and the midday heat. First-timers should skim our San Diego Zoo tips before heading out.

Go Sailing on San Diego Bay

San Diego Bay is one of the finest natural harbors in the country, and July’s steady afternoon breezes and warm temperatures make it prime sailing season. Whether you’ve never touched a tiller or you’re a seasoned skipper, there’s a way to get out on the water.

Hop aboard a skippered charter and simply sit back with a drink while someone else handles the sails, join a small-group sunset sail for golden-hour views of the skyline, or book a lesson or rental if you’d rather captain it yourself. Operators around Harbor Island and Shelter Island offer everything from breezy two-hour cruises to private half-day charters.

Take a Relaxing Harbor Cruise

If sailing sounds like a bit much, a narrated harbor cruise is the easy, low-effort way to see San Diego from the water — no skills required. Glide past the downtown skyline, cruise beneath the iconic Coronado Bridge, pass the Navy ships at the naval base, and keep an eye out for the sea lions lounging on the buoys.

Most operators run one-hour and two-hour narrated tours throughout the day, with sunset and dinner cruises in the evenings — a lovely way to cap off a warm July day. They’re family-friendly and a great pick if you want sightseeing without the sunburn.

After reading this post, you shouldn’t need to question whether it’s worth visiting San Diego in July. There’s so much happening, you don’t want to miss out.

Even if events aren’t your thing, gorgeous areas like Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Island, and Ocean Beach are all wonderful spots to unwind during your time off.

We’ve done our part, now it’s time to do yours, start planning your trip to San Diego.

Last Updated on June 15, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post San Diego in July: Things To Do, Events & Weather [2026] appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Notorious June Gloom will be long past, allowing visitors to enjoy all of Southern California’s best, with plenty of sunshine. You’ll likely experience higher prices for accommodation and longer lines at San Diego attractions during this time, but it’s worth it. The city really comes alive in summer, and August encapsulates everything San Diego is known for.

We’ve created a guide for all things San Diego in August, including the festivals and events you cannot miss!

Things To Do In San Diego In August

August Events & Festivals in San Diego

Art Walk At Liberty Station

When: July 31, August 1-2. 2026
Where: ART DISTRICT, Liberty Station
Website

A former naval training center, Liberty Station is now a hive of activity in the Point Loma area. A hub for food, craft beer, and shopping, Liberty Market is one of the area’s hotspots. However, there’s more to this neighborhood than good food.

Each year, Liberty Station hosts an art festival. This gives a platform to both up-and-coming and established artists to display and sell their incredible artworks. On Friday, there is an opening party (ticketed event), and Saturday and Sunday are free and open to the public.

For art collectors or visitors looking for a unique keepsake, this is a fantastic opportunity to find some real treasures.

San Diego Brew Fest

When: August 8, 2026
Where: Liberty Station
Website

San Diego’s Beer scene is still one of the best in the country. To celebrate San Diego’s best craft breweries and indulge in their top brews, sign up for the San Diego Brew Fest. Doors open at 12, and you have until 4 to sip your way through the best beers of San Diego.

There will be 70 San Diego breweries, 200+ beers on tap, and 10 food trucks to keep hunger and thirst away.

Hillcrest City Fest

When: August 9, 2026 12 PM – 11 PM
Where: 5th Ave, Hillcrest
Website

One of the largest, free art and music festivals in San Diego is taking place again in Hillcrest this year. With 70000 expected visitors, it will be a big party with lots of fun activities.

There are two stages featuring over 20 hours of combined live entertainment. There is also a kids’ zone offering arts and crafts, flower potting, making your own comic book, and more.

City Fest After Dark starts at 7 PM and turns Hillcrest into a full-on street party. 2 cocktail bars, a beer garden, and a pumping vibe that will keep you dancing until the lights are turned off.

Chula Vista Lemon Fest

When: August 15, 2026 11 AM – 6 PM
Where: Chula Vista 3rd Street
Website

To commemorate Chula Vista’s agricultural heritage and history as the “Lemon Capital of the World”, join the 29th iteration of the Chula Vista Lemon Festival. Dress up in your zestiest lemon outfit and enjoy live music, vendors, street food, and more

Bike The Bay

When: August 23, 2026
Where: Embarcadero Marina Park South
Website

A fun event open to all ages and skill levels, Bike the Bay is an annual bike ride across the San Diego Bay. Organized by the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition, all proceeds from the cycle go towards making San Diego a safer, more cyclist-friendly city.

Ride across the famous San Diego – Coronado Bay Bridge as part of this 25 mile route, and see the city from a whole new perspective. Best of all, you can cycle at your own pace, making it a perfect day out for the whole family.

This year, they also offer a 50-mile route, which will take you over the Coronado Bridge twice. A great way to really pump up your endurance and enjoy the best view over San Diego twice.

Upon returning to the starting point, you’ll be greeted with a selection of food, drinks, and entertainment to enjoy. Kick back in a relaxing beer garden and celebrate with your fellow cyclists. Proceeds go to the San Diego County Bike Coalition, which fights for making San Diego’s streets more bike-friendly, safer, and connected.

Brazilian Festival

When: August 29, 2026 2 PM – 11 PM
Where: Waterfront Park
Website

Brazilian tunes, cultural exhibits, food, and more await you at the famous Brazilian Festival. It is the first time the festival takes place in San Diego, and we can’t wait to experience the festivities. Get tickets ahead, as the price will double at the door.

Things to Do Any Time in August

Spend A Day At Balboa Park

You’ll undoubtedly find yourself in iconic Balboa Park during your trip. A must for anyone visiting San Diego for the first or even fifth time, this sprawling park is San Diego’s backyard.

With over 1,200 acres to explore, you’ll be spoiled for choice, and may find yourself stopping here more than once during your stay.

Nature lovers will be impressed by the beautiful Botanical Building and Japanese Gardens. While those craving more of a cultural experience shouldn’t miss out on the San Diego Museum of Art, the Spanish Village Art Center, and the San Diego Natural History Museum. There are 17 museums within the park to choose from.

Balboa Park has a number of interesting exhibitions and events throughout the year. Be sure to look out for some during your visit: Balboa Park Events.

Visit The Renowned San Diego Zoo

When: Anytime
Where: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Website

If Balboa Park is a must on every visitor’s list, then San Diego Zoo should also be included in your visit. The zoo is located in the park itself, making this a perfect stop for visitors.

You’ll be blown away by the huge array of majestic animals at this zoo, from rhinos, cheetahs, and sloths to polar bears and penguins.

The Nighttime Zoo experience runs through the entirety of the summer and makes for a truly memorable evening. Enchanting animals, live entertainment, and a lively atmosphere are guaranteed.

There are a number of different passes, combination tickets, and experiences to suit all needs and interests. If you purchase tickets online, you get access to a number of extras that you won’t get if you buy tickets at the entrance.

Be sure to check out the San Diego Zoo Tips before heading out.

Take Your Pick Of Breathtaking Beaches

If you’re vacationing in San Diego, chances are you’ll be spending some of your time beach-hopping along the coast.

San Diego County has 70 miles of coastline to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a bustling boardwalk or a tranquil haven, you’ll have your pick of the best San Diego beaches. 

Those hoping to be in the center of the action will love Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, or La Jolla Shores. While visitors hoping to escape the busy city will be drawn to Torrey Pines State Beach or Black’s Beach. If you have a dog traveling with you, check out these dog beaches so your pooch can catch some waves too.

Other beaches to add to your itinerary include Oceanside, Moonlight State Beach, and the much-loved Coronado Beach, overlooked by the famous Hotel Del Coronado. 

Or you could head up north and explore the stunning beaches in Carlsbad.

Watch The San Diego Padres At Petco Park

When: Various dates in August
Where: 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Website

If baseball is your thing, why not watch one of the many San Diego Padres games taking place this August at their home field, Petco Park?

Watch a thrilling game as the sun goes down and enjoy the electric atmosphere throughout the stadium. The Padres have 15 home games scheduled this August, allowing plenty of opportunities for visitors to cheer on the San Diego team alongside the locals.

If you’re not a Padres baseball fan but are keen to soak up the ambiance, head to Gallagher Square. Located right beside the stadium, this is a green space where you can choose to watch the game on a big screen or simply relax and enjoy gorgeous palm trees amid the San Diego skyline.

Average Temperatures & Rainfall In San Diego

With so much to see and do, coupled with the gorgeous weather California’s finest city is famous for, August can make for an ideal time to visit San Diego. 

Though it is a busy time of year for tourism, there are plenty of quiet spots to retreat to if the hustle and bustle aren’t for you. Temperatures are perfect for beach-goers, events are plentiful and diverse, and there’s an enthralling buzz around the city.

It’s safe to say, San Diego really shines in the summertime.

Last Updated on June 15, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post San Diego in August: Things To Do, Events & Weather [2026] appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

The Meriwether Companies acquired the weathered property three years ago and immediately began investing in upgrades and modernizations to the hotel, restaurants, meeting spaces, spa, pools, and tennis, pickleball, and padel facilities. But the new owner’s priority was overhauling the 27-hole golf course, which hosted a few celebrity tournaments, but struggled to compete with other high-end private and public courses in Del Mar and Rancho Santa Fe. Twenty percent of the $50 million resort makeover was poured into elevating the course and the driving range. 

“Golf is the asset in any private resort that drives revenue,” said Fernando Fry, general manager of La Valle Coastal Club. “For us, it was important to go big on golf, create a new practice facility, new driving range, new practice putting green, new short game area, plus renovate the three nines. We knew there was a massive hole in this market for this type of experience. It’s very hard to find three nine-hole courses in this area that are extremely walkable.” 

REBRANDING SUCCESS 

With the overhaul of the old Morgan Run nearly complete, Fry said the Meriwethers’ investment is beginning to pay off. Membership is up from 900 three years ago to 1,700 today. 

“We saw this asset in a prime location in Rancho Santa Fe, probably one of the most affluent zip codes in San Diego,” said Fry, who previously managed the Inverness Club in Toledo, Ohio, host of four U.S. Opens and two PGA Championships. “It’s so close to [Interstate 5] and the coast, we thought this could be a home run.” 

He added: “The vision of this club, once renovated, was to create a private club experience that’s the opposite of the old country club with the super-conservative dress codes and telling people how to act inside the clubhouse. We felt the San Diego demographic was interested in a prime club experience, but with an approach that’s more welcoming, more casual, fun, and engaging. We want to be the community club, a place where people feel comfortable.” 

FROM TEE TO GREEN 

I’ve played Morgan Run a few times since the course hosted my bachelor party in 1995, but I was never too impressed with the layout or the pedestrian conditions of the three nine-hole courses. So, I was anxious to see what the Meriweather Companies had done to the place that brought back so many fond memories. 

Before even hitting the course, I could see that a new era had begun. The underwhelming driving range that was previously located in a flood plain and had the distinction of having a wayward seal wash up on its banks during a heavy rainstorm had been relocated and expanded.

It now rivals the best in the county with 40 hitting bays, new bunkers, target greens, and a fairway landing zone that never existed before. Two chipping greens have been added, along with a 12,000-square-foot practice putting green and a 9,000-square-foot social putting green in front of the clubhouse, which was getting extensive use during our stay. 

My playing partner (who also had a history at Morgan Run, working in the pro shop for several years in the 1990s) and I started on the revamped Olivos course, previously the East. The new nine holes feature a full redesign with new routing that encompasses 20 additional acres, brand new greens, and a new irrigation system. 

The relatively benign course that I remembered had become more interesting and demanding. We opted to play from the back tees, which measure 3,004 yards. But we began regretting our decision by the fourth hole, which was a 390-yard par four that played into a strong wind. The par-4 fifth was even longer at 402 yards. Both of us missed the fairway on both holes and struggled to make bogeys.  

“I don’t remember this course playing this hard,” my partner grumbled. 

But even as we realized our 15 handicaps would have been more suited to the blue or white tees, we marveled at the condition of the fairways, which had been converted to paspalum with kikuyu roughs. Cedros (formerly the North) nine played longer from the tips at 3,187 yards and featured complete bunker renovations. But I was more familiar with the layout that hadn’t changed in three decades, and we began playing faster, so I was able to get into a nice rhythm. I birdied the 604-yard, par-5 fifth so and parred the 170-yard par 3. With only walking single in front of us, we played the back nine in less than 90 minutes, and my score, 40 (5 over par), reflected the breezy pace. 

We didn’t get to play the longer Palmas (formerly the South) nine (3,495 yards from the tips), which is currently under renovation. Palmas features a new property-wide signature hole, a dog-leg right playing along a newly positioned lake to the left, and lush native plants to the right with an elevated green. All 27 holes are available to play Wednesday-Sunday. On Mondays, only nine holes are available, and on Tuesdays, 18 holes are available.  

GOLF PACKAGES 

The revamped golf course is private to members and hotel guests. Golf memberships are available for individuals and families and allow for access to all club facilities and events.   

But there is another way to play the three nine-hole courses: the Guesthouse Hotel is offering a Golf Getaway package, an elevated stay & play experience designed for both avid golfers and leisure travelers. The package includes an overnight stay at the Guesthouse and one round of golf per guest, per day.  

GATHER CALIFORNIA KITCHEN RESTAURANT 

The main restaurant, Gather, has been renamed and relocated since hosting our wedding reception over three decades ago. The menu has been upgraded, and the food was significantly better than I remembered. We devoured the crispy Brussels sprouts, sauteed in habanero honey and lap Xiong sausage, and the farmer’s salad, which featured cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette dressing. 

I frequently travel to Mexico, so I tried the Tijuana Braised short ribs, and I wasn’t disappointed. My wife loved her filet with whipped mashed potatoes and grilled asparagus. We couldn’t finish our meat dishes, but somehow we made room for the chocolate lava cake, which was divine. 

THE GUESTHOUSE 

While I roamed the fairways and greens, my wife checked into our room at the recently remodeled 77-room Guesthouse Hotel. Our room overlooked the Palmas course’s ninth green. After enjoying the pool for a few hours, my wife relaxed on the patio with a glass of white wine and a cup of coffee from our Vertuo Nespresso machine. 

PICKLEBALL MANIA 

I knew I was in good company when I was welcomed to the La Valle Coastal Club Pickleball Courts with a phrase you’ll often hear while playing the fastest-growing sport in America. “We’re addicts, come join us,” said a gentleman about my age in an English accent. 

As a pickleball veteran of seven years who plays three times a week, I love strong competition, and there was plenty of it on a cloudy Wednesday morning in Rancho Santa Fe. Pickleballs (heavy wiffle balls) were flying all over the place as all 12 of the club’s courts were packed with middle-aged men and women.  

“This is a great pickleball community,” said Chris Nowers, a 63-year-old Del Mar resident who joined the Pickleball Club at La Valle a few years ago after relocating from England.  

I wound up splitting my four matches, playing against Chris and two different partners. One of them was Karen Chapman, a resident of Solana Beach. 

“The pickleball club here is super-friendly and inclusive,” she said.  “I just started playing a year and a half ago. The pros here have helped me so much with lessons and clinics.” 

League pickleball play continues to grow with 14 teams spread out over four levels of competition. A racquet sports membership includes access to the tennis, padel, and pickleball courts and includes access to the gym, pool, dry sauna, and cold plunge, club events, and dining rooms. I returned three days later for Saturday open play. The courts were even livelier, the level of play even higher than midweek. I have a tournament ranking, but I was winless in six games against club regulars and open house guests. 

Last Updated on June 13, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post La Valle Coastal Club Review: Rancho Santa Fe’s $50M Golf Resort Makeover appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

San Diego – Chula Vista Ferry Schedule

The ferry runs daily every two hours and runs from Chula Vista to Downtown at 8 AM, 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM and 6 PM. From 5th Avenue Pier in Downtown San Diego, the Chula Vista ferry leaves at 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM, 5 PM and 7 PM. Each one-way trip takes approximately 45 minutes.

Price & Tickets – Is it worth it?

How much is the ferry ticket to Chula Vista?

Each one-way ticket for the San Diego-Chula Vista ferry is $15 per person. You can buy a return ticket at the same time for $30 per person. Children under 4 ride free. There are currently no discounts for vets, daily commuters or other groups.

Where can I buy the ferry ticket?

You can either buy the ferry ticket on the ticket machine at either ferry landing or on the Flagship website. You can also scan the QR-code below and buy the tickets on your phone. On the ticket machine, you can use debit or credit cards, as well as cash, but no Apple Pay.

Greg and I bought a one-way ticket for 2 people at the ticket machine on 5th Avenue Pier as we weren’t sure if we would take the ferry back or not. As there is no discount to buy the return ticket at the same time, this gave us more flexibility and I highly recommend it. Also, there is no chance to lose the ticket.

Is it worth it?

It depends. The ferry is neither the cheapest nor the fastest way to get from downtown to Chula Vista, so if price and speed are your top two deciding factors, the ferry is not worth it.

However, if you are looking for a scenic way and a fun experience, nothing beats the ferry. I love being on a boat and it puts me in vacation mood instantly. We shared the ferry with 2 families with young kids and they all had a blast as well. I personally think that $15 for a 45 minute boat ride is a great value.

The Ferry Ride – What to expect

Greg and I arrived at the 5th Avenue Ferry Landing right behind the Convention Center about 15 minutes before the scheduled departure at 1 PM and bought a 1 way ticket on the ticketing machine. The ticket machine is pretty straight forward. first, you select your route (Coronado or Chula Vista), decide whether you want a one-way or return ticket, and then enter the number of passengers. After that, you are prompted for payment, which you can do either in cash, debit or credit card. Apple pay is currently not available.

You can also buy your tickets online on the Flagship website.

Important: Note that you only get one ticket for all passengers, so if some people in your group want to return at different times, I recommend buying individual tickets.

Once the ferry arrives, the captain will unlock the gate to the dock and check your tickets. If the Coronado ferry departs shortly before or after, there will only be one group of passengers allowed to access the dock at a time to make sure you end up on the right ferry.

The ferry boat to Chula Vista has space for 32 passengers and is partially covered to protect from sun and rain. There are cushioned benches on the perimeter of the boat as well as a center seating area in the front area of the boat. As we were only a total of 10 passengers on our ferry ride, we had plenty of space to move around, switch from sun to shade and side to side to take photos.

The ride was smooth, but you could definitely feel the waves. If you have motion sickness, I recommend taking preventative medication before you board.

There is no restroom on board and no option to buy food or drinks.

The ferry ride took a total of 45 minutes and we passed by the San Diego Convention Center, under the Coronado Bridge and by the 32nd Street Navy shipyard on the left, with Coronado and the Coronado Cays on the right. Passing under the Coronado Bay Bridge always feels special as only then you realize how huge this bridge actually is.

Parking & How to get to Ferry Ports?

Downtown – 5th Avenue Landing

There is metered parking at the South Embarcadero available, but it can fill up, especially if there is a show at the Rady Shell or during large conventions. Also keep in mind that the maximum time you can put on the meter at South Embarcadero is 3 hours, so that would not be enough to enjoy your trip to Chula Vista.

There is paid parking available at Seaport Village as well as the Convention Center ($35/day) as well as various hotels. If you park in downtown, please pay attention to the Special Event Parking fees that are $10/hour on metered parking within an approximately 0.5 mile radius around Petco Park.

I recommend taking public transportation to get there. You can take the trolley to either Seaport Village (0.7 miles), Convention Center (0.5 miles) , or Gaslamp Quarter trolley station (0.4 miles).

Chula Vista Safe Harbor Marina

There are various free parking lots near Chula Vista Bayfront operated by the San Diego Port Authority. Please take a look at their website for detailed information and parking lot locations.

You can take the trolley blue line to Chula Vista H Street Station and walk approximately 1 mile to Chula Vista Safe Harbor Marina.

There is also the Chula Vista Bayside shuttle from Downtown Chula Vista to the Gaylord Pacific. Get off at the Gaylord Pacific H Street exit, which is closer to the ferry landing than the resort exit.

Things to do in Chula Vista

To be honest, Greg and I have not spent much time in Chula Vista so far. It is not your typical tourist neighborhood and we have not gotten around to exploring much yet. But after this weekend, we can’t wait to go back. It surprised us not only with the stunning amenities at the Gaylord Pacific, but also the cute vibe of Downtown Chula Vista.

Gaylord Pacific

Of course I have heard about the huge Gaylord Pacific Marriott Bonvoy property, which opened last year in Chula Vista, but this was my first visit. With 1600 hotel rooms and a large convention center, this hotel has created a new hot spot for tourists in the South Bay.

The resort is absolutely beautiful. With 5 pools, including a wave pool, slides, and lazy river, this 4.25 acre water park really puts you in vacation mood. The best part? You can buy day passes for the pool area starting at only 12.50 per person. Pro Tip: Our waitress told us that day passes sell out very quickly you can only book within a 21 day booking window. The Gaylord Pacific releases new tickets each night at 12 am and that is the best time to snatch some.

We had lunch at the Hotel restaurant Marzul Coastal Cuisine. They serve Baja-inspired coastal dishes, including fresh oysters, fish tacos, and lamb birria. I had the swordfish tacos which were delicious, but a bit pricy for 2 small tacos. Greg had the lamb shank birria, which was very delicious, but a bit different than traditional birria. The sauce was very thick and rich (and tasty!), but not as brothy and savory as an authentic birria.

The highlight of our meal might surprise you, but it was actually the sweet potato side dish. Roasted chunks of sweet potato were smothered in a mouthwatering cream and tangy tamarind sauce that was to die for. For a fun texture, there was a sprinkle of puffed grains and a few sweet potato chips that took the dish to the next level.

Downtown Chula Vista

After lunch and exploring the hotel, Greg and I decided to walk to Downtown Chula Vista. Don’t do that! The walk is anything but scenic and long (1.9 miles). At least we had sidewalks as we strolled past picturesque construction sites and scenic strip malls. Take the free Bayfront Shuttle instead!

Downtown Chula Vista is not big, but there are some fun bars, restaurants, and breweries as well as shops to check out. Greg and I came across Chula Vista Brewery and decided to check them out. Their beers were tasty and they even have live music every Sunday (usually The Ritchie Orduño Trio, a Blues-y Latin Rock band that we had seen a few times at Gator by the Bay. Super cool vibe and fantastic music. Can’t wait to go back.

Afterwards, Greg and I decided to take a shared ride back to downtown, as we had dinner plans and were running out of time to make it back on the ferry.

Who is this ferry really for?

This ferry is perfect for people staying at the Gaylord Pacific who don’t have a car or don’t want to take the trolley and want to visit downtown San Diego during their stay. It is also a fun day trip for locals and visitors in downtown San Diego to see a different part of the city that is not very touristy (aside from the Gaylord Pacific Resort of course). The ferry is great if you are not pressed on time and want to make the way to your destination more fun and memorable.

I would not recommend taking the ferry if you have a limited time window or are pressed on time, or want to get to Chula Vista in the most direct, affordable, and fastest way possible.

My Personal Top Tips

Don’t buy return tickets – buying a return ticket does not give you any advantages or price reduction, so I recommend buying one-way tickets only. For your whole group, you will only receive one ticket, so if part of your group wants to take a different ferry, you can’t do that. Also, since the ferry only runs every 2 hours, keeping your return option open gives you more flexibility.

Take the free Bayfront shuttle to Downtown Chula Vista – Walking to Downtown Chula Vista from the Bayfront is not very scenic and quite long (almost 2 miles). I recommend taking the free Bayfront Shuttle.

How to get Gaylord Pacific Day Pass Tickets – Tickets go on sale daily at 12 am for the next 21 days and they usually sell out within hours. I recommend buying those tickets as close to the release time as possible, especially during the busy summer season.

FAQs

Last Updated on June 8, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post The New Chula Vista to San Diego Ferry: Schedule, Price & Tips (2026) appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

“What you see is Mexico, what you taste is Mexico, what you hear is Mexico, and what you experience is Mexico.“

Akis Neocleous, Chief Hotels Officer Grupo Xcaret

To better understand the concept, I interviewed Akis Neocleous, Chief Hotels Officer for Grupo Xcaret. I also reviewed current hotel and park information.

What is Xcaret

Xcaret is a collection of resorts and amusement parks on the Riviera Maya, Mexico, that are designed to showcase all the magic Mexico has to offer. They have 3 hotels, targeting families (Xcaret Mexico), adults-only (Xcaret Arte), and luxury boutique travelers (Casa de la Playa).

Who is Xcaret for?

What sets Xcaret apart from other all-inclusive resorts in the area is that they offer distinct hotels, parks, and experiences for each of its target audiences and their interests. This makes it an ideal choice for many people, but not all. Let’s dive a little deeper and see if Xcaret is the right choice for you!

Xcaret is perfect for people who want to experience a vacation in Mexico that is safe, easy to book, hassle-free, and active. Depending on your travel style and interests (family travel, luxury travel, cultural adults-only travel, adventure travel, cultural experiences), Xcaret offers specific hotels and parks to cater to each group. This also makes it perfect for multi-generational travel groups with different interests and activity levels.

Xcaret is probably not the best option for people who just want to lie on the beach or the pool for a week, reading and drinking cocktails. But the value is strong if you are active and take advantage of all the activities on offer at the Xcaret hotels and parks.

Xcaret’s All Fun Inclusive Model

Xcaret takes all-inclusive to the next level. They include not only hotel, food and beverage package, and resort amenities, but also entrance to the parks, activities, and even some excursions. This makes your vacation so much more relaxing. You can just do all the activities that interest you without keeping a running tab of your vacation budget. Keep in mind that most, but not all, restaurants and activities are included.

This makes Xcaret a great option for families traveling with kids, especially teenagers. You don’t have to worry about your kids running up the bill with expensive mocktails and excursions. Xcaret Mexico offers a lot of amenities for kids of all ages. There are nightclubs for teenagers, a rooftop lounge, DJ contests, silent parties, and more. And then there is the fun at the parks, which will keep them busy with zip lining, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and more. The best part? Teenagers can do many of these activities on their own, which gives parents the opportunity to relax.

“Children and teenagers can have their own spaces and activities, while parents can still feel that everyone is safe and entertained. The property has many things to do, so families do not need to leave to find entertainment.”

Akis Neocleous

Mexican Identity as Design Language

One thing that stood out to me during the interview was how deep Xcaret’s Mexican identity goes. Xcaret used local architects and designers to give the hotels and parks a truly Mexican ambiance. The colors and textures, fabrics and artwork all showcase the rich and beautiful Mexican culture in an authentic way.

The Xcaret Arte adult-only Hotel is an artwork in itself. It features Rubén Carrasco’s Portal Solar mural as well as several rotating exhibitions of famous Mexican artists, such as Jacobo and María Ángeles, Fernando Andriacci, Ignacio Netzahualcoyotl, and Jorge Marín. All of these artists are from Mexico and share their creativity through a variety of mediums, including sculptures, paintings, murals, textiles, and pottery. The newest exhibition (June 4 – September 4, 2026) is Under the Shadow of Venus. This exhibition by María José Lavín, showcases a post-modern interpretation of Venus and her sensual form.

If you don’t just want to look at art, you can also make it yourself at one of the many art workshops. From painting to pottery, textile to Latin dance, and more, there is a workshop for everyone. Take a look at the list of art workshops here.

Mexican Cuisine Beyond the Stereotype

Want to hear a sad secret? I have had some of the worst Mexican food in Mexican resorts. They were trying so hard to please the taste buds of Americans and Europeans that every dish turned out bland. So I was very intrigued to learn about the focus that Xcaret puts on an authentic Mexican culinary experience. After all, the food in Mexico is one of the main reasons why I love traveling there!

At Xcaret, one thing is for sure: You will not go hungry. At Xcaret Mexico, there are 20 restaurants; at Xcaret Arte, 10; and at La Casa de la Playa, 4. Options include many different cuisines and range from casual beach restaurants to endless buffets to Michelin-starred fine dining options. From Italian to Asian fusion, steakhouses, and of course, ample Mexican food options, featuring specialties of various states, including Yucatan, Veracruz, and Puebla.

Michelin-Star Ha’ Restaurant

Speaking of fine dining, often regarded as the absolute highlight of every Xcaret stay is dinner at the one-Michelin-Star Ha’ restaurant. Chef Carlos Gaytán combines his French technique with local ingredients, sprinkling in a hint of Japanese finesse. He creates an unforgettable tasting menu, which is perfectly paired with local wines by Sommelier Sandra Fernández. Please keep in mind that this restaurant requires reservations and is part of the All-Fun-Inclusive-Package.

Apapaxoa Festival

One of the culinary highlights at Xcaret is the annual Apapaxoa festival. This year, the festival will take place September 18-23, 2026, under the motto “Colors of Mexico” and feature the 23 chefs of Xcaret’s Gastronomic Collective, along with national and international guest chefs. If you are a foodie like me, it is one to put on the calendar.

Returning for its third edition, the six-day festival will unfold across Hotel Xcaret Arte, Hotel Xcaret México, La Casa de la Playa, and select Xcaret parks. It will turn the Riviera Maya into a vibrant stage for Mexican flavor, creativity, and culture.

The name Apapaxoa means “to embrace with the soul,” and that spirit shapes the entire experience. Visitors can enjoy a celebration of Mexico’s culinary identity and expect a mix of gastronomy, wine, mixology, art, music, fashion, wellness, sustainability, technology, and community.

For food lovers, the draw is the chance to experience cuisine as storytelling. Every plate, pairing, conversation, and setting is designed to reveal something deeper about the land and the people behind it. More programming details are still to come, but stay tuned.

Sustainability and Community at Xcaret

Sustainability is so much more than just reducing waste and only swapping towels every other day. It also means the impact a multi-million dollar operation like Xcaret has on its direct environment and community.

“Sustainability is very important to us. We work on environmental practices, recycling, and responsible operations. We also try to support local communities and local people as much as possible.”

Akis Neocleous

Sustainability has been a priority for Xcaret before it even opened its doors. Xcaret Mexico was the first Hotel in North America to ever receive the EarthCheck Gold Certification. EarthCheck is a highly reputable certification, and the gold certification is the second-highest level of sustainability certification available through them.

To help keep them on track, Xcaret has multiple action groups. Each group focuses on various aspects of sustainability, including recycling, water fountains with filtered water, wastewater management, and more.

Xcaret also puts an emphasis on cultural sustainability by promoting the local economy, as well as local traditions and experiences, including cultural events, such as Mayan ceremonies, for visitors. Another focus is to use local products and services as much as possible.

Aside from that, Xcaret gives back to the local community by supporting local initiatives. Xcaret supports the Riviera Maya Forest Nursery, various reforestation projects in the local area, and ongoing beach preservation and cleanup efforts.

Final Remarks

The interview raised questions I can’t answer from a desk: whether the cultural framing holds up beyond the lobby, whether the culinary ambition survives at scale, and whether the sustainability credentials reflect structural practice or marketing positioning. Those are stories worth telling — and ones that require being there. Only once I visit can I share if Xcaret’s authenticity promise actually holds up.

FAQs about Xcaret

Interview Details

This article is based on in-depth research and an interview with Akis Neocleous, Chief Hotels Officer for Grupo Xcaret, conducted on May 29, 2026, via Google Meet.

All direct quotes were confirmed in writing with Xcaret’s PR team before publication.

Last Updated on June 4, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post Inside Xcaret’s All-Fun Inclusive World appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Whether you are looking for the best places to watch the San Diego 4th of July fireworks, parades, parties, and more, we have a list of all the fun events to celebrate this amazing milestone for our country.

Best Places to See 4th of July Fireworks in San Diego for America’s Big 250th Year Birthday Celebration

If you are after fireworks on Independence Day, you won’t be disappointed. You can look forward to some of the most amazing 4th of July fireworks in San Diego you have ever seen. Most of our fireworks take place over water, so you get to see a double effect of sparkles. Take a look below for the best places to watch the 4th of July Fireworks in San Diego.

Big Boom Bay San Diego

Location: San Diego Bay
Time: 9:15 PM – 9:30ish PM

Big Boom Bay San Diego is the largest fireworks display in San Diego on the 4th of July. 4 barges are setting off fireworks over the San Diego Bay and can be seen from almost all over Downtown San Diego, Coronado, Point Loma, Old Town, and beyond.

The best place to see the fireworks is, of course, from the water. If you know anyone with a boat, now is the time to cash in some friendship points and see if you can join them on their boat on the San Diego Bay. The second-best places to watch the Big Boom Bay fireworks are along the bay. The barges are located in front of Shelter Island, Harbor Island, and North and South Embarcadero.

The Big Boom Bay fireworks are raising money for the Fleetweek San Diego to support the Big Bay Boom. You can also watch the 4th of July fireworks on TV on Fox 5, starting at 9:15 PM.

Here are some of the top spots to watch the San Diego fireworks:

Please note that parking in downtown and Seaport Village is extremely limited. I live right by there and see hundreds of cars stuck in traffic trying to find parking while the fireworks go off. I highly recommend using public transport (the trolley stop Seaport Village is just across the street) or coming a few hours early to reserve your spot.

Please note that most restaurants and bars require reservations ahead of time or offer a special prix fix menu or cover charge for the holiday. Make reservations as soon as possible!

4th of July Fireworks in San Diego County 2026 Schedule

Central San Diego Fireworks

San Diego North County 4th of July Fireworks 2026

East County San Diego 4th of July Fireworks 2026

South Bay San Diego Fireworks 2026

San Diego 4th of July Events 2026

More Fun Things to Do on 4th of July in San Diego

Fireworks and Parades are fun and will definitely put you in the mood for 4th of July, but there are more fun things to do on that day to celebrate the Birth of America.

• Beach Day: San Diego has some of the best beaches in the US and on 4th of July, they are the perfect place if you want to party and have a good time. This is NOT the time if you are looking for a quiet, read-your-book kind of relaxing beach day. It will be loud, fun, and a bit crazy. Get there early and try to use public transport or ride-shares as parking will be almost impossible. Check out some of our favorite San Diego beaches here
• Picnic in the Park: A day in the park is always a good idea. Pack up a yummy picnic, a blanket, and some drinks and find a shady spot on the grass to enjoy and relax.
• Bonfire on the Beach: If you are lucky, you might be able to score one of the bonfire spots in Mission Bay to have a little BBQ with the family and friends overlooking Mission Bay. You can also see the SeaWorld Fireworks from there, so this is a perfect place to hang out the whole day and evening.
• Pay Tribute: Visit some of San Diego’s Military Memorials and Monuments and pay your tribute to the heroes who supported this nation throughout the centuries.

San Diego 4th of July FAQs

San Diego 4th of July Fireworks and Events – Pin for Later:

Last Updated on June 4, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post San Diego 4th of July 2026: Fireworks, Events & Things to Do appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Expect prices to be a little higher during this time compared to cooler months, and don’t be surprised to find yourself among other tourists seeking sunshine in the city. However, this should not discourage you from visiting San Diego in June, you will come to see it as a wonderful time to explore this part of California.

This post will tell you everything you need to know about visiting San Diego in June and how to make the most of your trip. We’ll cover everything from the best beaches for catching waves to unique events you cannot miss.

June Weather in San Diego

Temperatures gradually increase throughout the month of June, typically ranging from lows of 62° F to highs of 73° F. These comfortable temperatures make it an ideal time to get out and explore the city.

Rain should not impede your outdoor activities this month. San Diego experiences little to no precipitation in June, with only around 1 mm of rain.

While it’s San Diego’s driest month, it’s also the most humid, so it can sometimes feel a little warmer than the temperature suggests. It’s also one of the windier months in the county, which helps combat the humidity.

June sees long days with 14.3 hours of daylight and around 11.8 hours of sunshine each day. The city sometimes falls victim to California’s infamous ‘June Gloom,’ so be prepared for the possibility of overcast during your visit.

Ocean temperatures rise to an average of 65° F in June. Though it is not quite as warm as July and August, the temperature increases throughout the month, and swimmers see it as a perfect time to visit San Diego.

What Should You Wear In San Diego In June?

The warming weather in June makes it a perfect time to break out your shorts, dresses, and t-shirts.

Many locals begin to ditch jeans and sweaters at this time, though the evenings can become a little chilly, so packing a light jacket and pair of full-length trousers will keep you covered for any drops in temperature.

Don’t forget to bring SPF and sunglasses to protect yourself from the strengthening sunshine.

Things To Do In San Diego In June

Experience The San Diego County Fair

When: June 10th – July 5th 2026
Where: Del Mar Fairgrounds
Website

A must during your visit to San Diego is a day spent at the County Fair. Immerse yourself in a wide variety of activities and attractions. From live music and a funfair for the family to mouth-watering food offerings, you can easily spend hours here.

The San Diego County Fair also offers a huge range of exhibits and shows, such as art exhibitions, bird shows, and even pig racing! The most difficult part of your visit will be narrowing down what to see, experience, and eat!

Sample Delicious Eats At The Street Food Festival

When: June 13th, 2026
Where: City Heights
Website

Ramble down to the richly diverse neighborhood of City Heights to celebrate San Diego’s fascinating mix of cultures. Relax with a beer or wine while listening to an eclectic mix of live performances.

Foodies will be spoiled for choice with a variety of international street food available. 

Kinfolk Festival

When: June 20th, 2026
Where: Waterfront Park
Website

On Saturday, June 14, the San Diego waterfront comes alive as Kinfolk Fest returns to Waterfront Park for its eighth year, marking the city’s largest Juneteenth celebration.

Thousands are expected to gather for this powerful, multigenerational event that shines a spotlight on Black culture and community. Kinfolk Fest 2026 will feature live music, high-energy DJ sets, a lively marketplace of Black-owned businesses, spirited spades tournaments, and immersive experiences that honor freedom, legacy, and joy.

“This isn’t just a festival — it’s a space of cultural restoration, joy, and community power,” says Loren Cobbe, founder of SD Melanin and executive producer of Kinfolk Fest. “We honor where we’ve come from while creating new traditions that center us, connect us, and empower us.”

Get A Taste Of The San Diego Lifestyle At The Switchfoot Bro-Am

When: June 11th & June 13th, 2026
Where: Moonlight Beach, Encinitas
Website

This free event encompasses two things Californians are very passionate about: surfing and music.

Watch award-winning band SWITCHFOOT headline the event in their hometown with special guests each year. Come early in the day to witness the annual surf contest before live music kicks off.

Best of all, this enjoyable event was created to give back to the local community. Money raised here goes towards incredible causes such as education, athletes with disabilities, and curbing hunger.

San Diego International Boat Show

When: June 11-14, 2026
Where: Harbor Island
Website

San Diego invites boaters, ocean lovers, and adventure seekers to the landmark San Diego International Boat Show.

As the city’s premier maritime event, SDIBS 2026 celebrates all things nautical, from luxury yachts and cutting-edge marine technology to the latest trends shaping the boating industry. Dive in and discover what’s making waves in 2026!

Taste of Little Italy

When: June 16-17, 2026
Where: Little Italy
Website

One of San Diego’s favorite culinary events is back! Taste of Little Italy returns June 16–17 from 4:00–8:00 p.m. for two evenings of incredible bites, lively energy, and neighborhood charm.

Each night features a unique lineup of 20+ restaurants, serving everything from handmade pasta and wood-fired pizza to fresh seafood and globally inspired dishes. Guests will check in at Piazza della Famiglia to receive their Taste Passport, then stroll through Little Italy, enjoying curated tastings, live music, and seating at Piazza della Famiglia and Piazza Basilone.

Join for one night or both and experience the flavors of one of San Diego’s most beloved dining traditions.

NASCAR in San Diego

When: June 19-21, 2026
Where: Coronado Naval Base
Website

In celebration of the 250^th anniversary of United States Navy, NASCAR will once again make history by hosting a brand-new street race at Naval Base Coronado as a highlight of the 2026 schedule. NASCAR San Diego will be a three-day full-throttle race weekend headlined by the stars of the NASCAR Cup Series, along with the NASCAR Xfinity Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, on June 19-21, 2026.

Witness The Ocean Beach Street Fair & Chili Cook-Off

When: June 27th, 2026
Where: Ocean Beach
Website

This annual event attracts around 70,000 visitors a year and for good reason. Attendees can enjoy three different live music stages, relax at the beer garden, or shop for locally crafted goods at the Artist Alley.

The Street Fair’s main event is the famous cook-off. Amateur chefs put themselves to the test, competing for the title of best chili.

During the contest, judges and visitors alike taste a wide selection of chilis, ultimately casting a vote for their favorite. The winning chefs will claim the coveted Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice awards.

Catch Some Rays At One Of San Diego’s Beaches

When: All Month
Where: Throughout San Diego
Check out our list of the Best Beaches In San Diego here

One of the top things visitors wish to do here is take a trip to the beach. San Diego beaches are among California’s most beautiful, the area is a haven for those hoping to unwind in the sunshine or try their hand at surfing. 

Visit iconic Coronado Beach with famous Hotel Del Coronado as your backdrop, walk along the boardwalk at Mission Beach, or check out the waves at Ocean Beach.

Those looking for a more secluded spot can head to the chilled-out beaches at Del Mar or Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Explore All That Balboa Park Has To Offer

When: All Month
Where: Balboa Park
Website

Another must-see during June in San Diego is Balboa Park. Home to the famous San Diego Zoo, there is something for all ages at this family-friendly hotspot. 

You can spend days wandering around Balboa Park, visiting the 17 museums alone. Other highlights include the Japanese Gardens, Botanical Building, and Spanish Village.

This park is brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s sure to be a memorable part of your adventures in San Diego.

Release Your Inner Child At LEGOLAND California

When: All Month
Where: LEGOLAND California
Buy Tickets Here

Thrill-seekers will have a blast at this ever-popular theme park located in Carlsbad.

What better way to spend a sunny day than by getting your adrenaline pumping on rollercoaster rides and cooling off at the waterpark? Not to mention, the park is also home to a fascinating aquarium. Here you can learn about incredible marine life and how the park works to conserve and protect the ocean and its animals. 

For anyone keen on completely immersing themselves in the LEGOLAND experience, there are two on-site hotels to choose from with unique rooms and facilities. Book LEGOLAND California Hotel and Castle Hotel here.

This is an adventure paradise that’s not just for kids!

Encounter Enchanting Animals At SeaWorld

When: All Month
Where: SeaWorld San Diego
Website

An amazing day out for both children and adults alike, SeaWorld has been attracting visitors for over 50 years. This popular theme park keeps guests entertained with thrilling rides and magical sea creatures.

Get a chance to see a wide variety of sea animals up close, including friendly dolphins, adorable penguins, majestic orcas, and colorful sea turtles. The amazing wildlife to be explored at this park is not limited to those found under the sea, you can also spot animals like macaws and sloths during your visit.

If you are visiting San Diego in the back half of June, be sure to check out SeaWorld’s Summer Spectacular event. You’ll be treated to mesmerizing light shows and music performances as the sun goes down.

The month of June has so much to offer visitors of all tastes. Whether wishing to delve into the city’s culture, tick off some California bucket list experiences, or simply bask in the sunshine, your time here will surely be memorable.

Though the United States has many contenders for most-beloved summer destinations, San Diego is hard to beat! The plethora of June events and warm weather continue to entice tourists year after year.

So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy this magical city for all it has to offer during your summer vacation!

Last Updated on May 28, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post San Diego in June 2026: Fun Events & Top Things To Do appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

I’ve lived in downtown San Diego for years (a five-minute walk to most of the spots in this guide), and Greg and I eat out way more than we should. We’ve worked our way through pretty much every restaurant worth trying down here — and plenty that weren’t. This isn’t a roundup of whichever places have the biggest marketing budget; it’s where we actually take our friends and family when they come to town.

Downtown packs more restaurants per square block than anywhere else in San Diego, and they’re not all created equal. Some are genuinely fantastic. Some are coasting on the view. A few are flat-out tourist traps I’d never recommend — and yes, we name them at the end of this post.

Below, you’ll find our 25 favorite downtown San Diego restaurants, organized by neighborhood — Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, East Village, and the Marina & Waterfront — plus our honest take on the popular spots we personally skip. There’s something here for every budget and occasion, from $5 tacos to A5 wagyu, casual lunch to anniversary dinner.

If you’re a local, what are your favorites? Drop them in the comments — I’m always looking for new spots to try.

Best San Diego Down Town Restaurants Map

San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Restaurants

The Gaslamp Quarter is the center of San Diego’s nightlife scene. You will find lots of restaurants, shops, bars, clubs, and some places that try to be everything at once. Rents in the Gaslamp Quarter are astronomical, so be prepared to pay a little more. We tried to include some cheaper options as well, though.

Meze

Address: 345 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 550-1600
Website
$$$

One of my favorite Greek restaurants in San Diego. They offer lots of Greek classics but with a fusion twist. The ingredients are always fresh, and everything is prepared perfectly.

I had Shrimp saganaki there a few times, and not only was the sauce divine, but the shrimp were so juicy and cooked on point. Their lamb shank cooked in a tomatoey red wine sauce is also killer, and their cheese and shrimp Saganaki is flambéed tableside, which makes for a little fun entertainment.

If you love cocktails, this is also a great spot for some fun libations with a Greek twist. I always have to chuckle at their cocktail names like “Bye Felicia 6.0!” or “The Dirty Greek” LOL!

Dobson’s

Address: 956 Broadway Cir, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 231-6771
Website
Read our full review on Dobson’s here>>
$$$

Dobson’s Bar and Restaurant is an institution. Right in the heart of downtown, next to the remnants of Horton Plaza, Dobson’s has been open since the early 80s.

Wood-paneled walls, a long and well-stocked bar, and of course, the delicious food, make Dobson’s a popular lunch and dinner spot with a classic feel that makes it perfect for a business lunch just as much as drinks before a show or even a romantic date night.

One of the must-try dishes is the famous mussel bisque, served with a puff pastry shell that is absolutely divine. According to their website, they sold over 1 million of them so far.

Lou & Mickey’s

Address: 224 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 237-4900
Website
$$$

If you are looking for an “old school” steak and seafood restaurant in San Diego, then Lou & Mickey’s is a fantastic choice. The ambiance is classy, and the people-watching from their tables on 5th Avenue will keep you entertained all night long.

My husband is still dreaming about their 60-day dry-aged Porterhouse, and I can’t resist their Raw Bar every time I go. I find a lot of surf ‘n’ turf restaurants try to be good at seafood and steak, but most simply are not. Lou & Mickey’s is an exception, and they do an excellent job, whether you prefer steak or seafood.

Another thing I really like about this place is the sides. They are not just an afterthought. I’d be happy to go to Lou & Mickey’s and only order some sides for dinner. They are that good! The broccolini with tahini is fantastic, and so is the asparagus with gremolata. Yum!

Noodles and Bun

Address: 770 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 356-3688
Website
$

This place is our latest foodie obsession. We come here at least 2x a month and have brought numerous neighbors, friends, and family here because it is just so good. Noodles and Bun is nothing fancy, just good food.

If you love noodles, you will love this place. They are famous for their Hand-pulled noodles (you can watch them making them in the open kitchen concept, how cool is that?), but I personally love the knife-shaved noodles, and Greg loves the wide noodles. 

Once you decide on your noodle shape, you can choose from 3 soups. The Lanzhou is a subtle, milky broth that reminds me of Tonkotsu Ramen with thin slices of lean beef, and the Beef Brisket (spicy and normal), which has a rich, dark broth with large chunks of juicy, fatty brisket. Both are fantastic! Don’t leave without trying the garlic green beans and the soup dumplings. 

The Huntress

Address: 376 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 329-4868
Website
$$$

Another downtown steakhouse on our list. But each one has such a unique feel and vibe, they all deserve a spot! The Huntress has a modern, clubby vibe, fantastic cocktails, and stunning interior design.

The Huntress offers steaks ranging from Australian to A5 wagyu center cuts, dry-aged bone-in ribeye, and of course, all the traditional cuts. Appetizers and sides are mostly traditional with a few “exotics” thrown in the mix like the truffle donuts or katsu style sandwich.

My favorite part of the meal at The Huntress was the dessert though. The presentation of their famous “Magic Mushroom” dessert was phenomenal. The dessert looks deceptively real to mushrooms growing on the forest floor, is presented under a “cheese dome” infused with smoke. Definitely an insta-worthy dessert, so get your camera ready.

Lumi

Address: 366 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 329-5864
Website
$$$

One of the best sushi spots in downtown San Diego. It is located just upstairs from The Huntress and offers a rooftop bar vibe with modern Asian influences. It has a clubby vibe and also offers bottle service when Lumi shifts from restaurant to bar.

We ordered some cocktails and the Nazo 9 – Lumi’s Signature Mystery Box. It’s a little bit like a small Omakaze, but all bites are served at once in a box with nine sections. We also ordered some more sushi, and they were delicious.

For dessert, we ordered the AB Cigar. The words chocolate and log form should give you an idea of what it looked like. They have since switched it to white chocolate, and I think that was a very wise decision

Whiskey House

Address: 420 3rd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 546-6289
Website
$$

If you love Whiskey, you HAVE to go to the Whiskey House. Not only do they hold the world record for the bar with the most whiskeys (over 4000!!!), but they also have one of the best happy hours in Downtown (daily from 4-7 PM). The mixologists at the Whiskey House are some of the best in San Diego. Their drinks, obviously, have a strong whiskey bias, but you can get a variety of other cocktails as well.

The atmosphere is very speakeasy-like with plush leather sofas, crystal chandeliers, and ceiling-high shelves filled with bottle after bottle of whiskey (and other spirits). My favorite design part is the library ladders that the bartenders use to reach the bottles on the upper shelves.

The food definitely exceeds bar-style food and the prices during happy hour can’t be beat. $18 for a New York Strip Steak or $14 for a salmon fillet with sides can’t be beat. My husband loves their lamb sausage and lamb burger and I love their kale salad and scotch egg. Oh, and their breakfast/brunch is really good too! Definitely one of my favorite downtown San Diego restaurants.

Tacos el Gordo

511 F St, San Diego, CA 92102
Website
$

If you want Tijuana-style, authentic tacos, but don’t want to drive to Mexico, Tacos El Gordo is a great option. They have all the street tacos you would find south of the border. 

The order process is a bit unique and because it is usually very busy, it can be confusing. There are several lines and you can only order certain types of tacos in each line, so make sure you are in the right line and if you are 2 or more people, split up and order for each other. Honestly, I am not a fan of their ordering system and it always stresses me out. 

I really like their adobada, buche, tripe, and tongue tacos, but I am a bit of an adventurous eater. If you like something a little less exotic, try the adobada, suadero, and carne asada. 

Tacos el Franc

528 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Website
$

This is my favorite TJ-style taco shop in Downtown. I love their Tijuana location, which became famous in the Netflix show Taco Chronicles, and it got a Michelin mention. 

I love that it is easy to order at the counter, and it is less hectic than Tacos el Gordo. 

Their carne asada and lengua tacos are my favorite, but their mulitas are amazing as well. And they have the best Jamaica and Horchata in downtown!

Little Italy Restaurants

Juniper & Ivy

Address: 2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 269-9036
Website
$$$

Juniper & Ivy is located on the North side of Little Italy and it doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the inside is beautiful and welcoming. 

I love me a place that is Insta-worthy AND the food is fantastic as well. 

Greg and I went there last for our wedding anniversary, and it fit the bill for a special date night. We ordered a bunch of small plates that were each absolutely fantastic, but the star of the night was definitely the roasted duck. Perfectly cooked, crispy skin and moist meat, and the noodle stir-fry was sweet, savory, and delicious. 

Mona Lisa

Address: 2061 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 234-4893
Menu: monalisalittleitaly.com
$

This Italian Grocery Store/Deli is one of the most authentic Italian places in Little Italy. Their Sandwiches are killer. I always go for the Porchetta. It takes me straight back to Florence. 

At their restaurant, you get all the Italian classics. I love that they have Pizza and Pasta as well as mains including various chicken, veal and seafood dishes, which makes it much more crowd-pleasing than just a pizza place. 

Queenstown Public House

Address: 1557 Columbia St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 546-0444
Menu: queenstownpublichouse.com
$$

Queenstown Pub is our favorite restaurant in Little Italy. Greg is obsessed with their Lamb Burger and I think they have the best fish and chips in town. 

They also have a fantastic brunch and make a mean cocktail or two. 

And their decor is so adorable. It is so playful and cute. It reminds me of a real-life version of the Hänsel & Gretel gingerbread house, minus the evil witch. 

Born & Raised

Address: 1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 202-4577
Reservations: bornandraisedsteak.com
$$$

Born and Raised feels like time travel to the roaring 20s. The decor is stunning. Service is great and the food is decent too. I personally prefer the meat quality at Cowboy Star, but I love the atmosphere here more.

I love the table-side Caesar salad service, which reminds me of Caesars in Tijuana.

East Village Restaurants

Callie

Address: 1195 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 255-9696
Website
$$$

This Bib Gourmand Modern Mediterranean restaurant is one of my favorites in East Village. It wasn’t love at first sight, though.

I remember the first time we went there and ordered a few dips as starters: some hummus, baba ganoush etc and some pita. Each dip was $14-16, and one slice of Pita was $5. On top of that, the serving size was tiny. Uff, not off to a good start. I was sure the dinner would be one of those “fine dining” experiences where we’d stop at a taco shop on the way back, ha.

However, each subsequent course we had was absolutely fantastic (and the portion sizes were more adequate as well)! Our absolute favorite dish of the night was the mushrooms with poached egg, followed by the duck breast and the lamb chops. Everything was prepared on point.

One thing I personally don’t like about Callie’s is that it is incredibly loud. You can listen in on conversations a few tables over. So if you are looking for something a bit more quiet and intimate, this might not be your best option. But the food is so good, I come back anyway!

Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop

Address: 640 Tenth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 450-5880
Website
$$$

When you walk into Cowboy Star, you feel like you’ve walked onto a set of “Dallas”. The vibe is classy, but definitely more Texas than SoCal. The menu is classic steakhouse fare that will delight any carnivore. One of their specialties is the 35-day dry-aged 18 oz Cattleman’s Cut Bone-In Ribeye. You’d better come with a bit of an appetite to finish this monster.

One of my favorite evenings at Cowboy Star was a few years back for my Birthday. They created a custom menu with special Birthday wishes for me. It definitely added a special touch.

Tajima Ramen

Address: 901 E St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 431-5820
Website
$

My favorite Ramen shop in downtown San Diego. It isn’t the most authentic, but it really hits the spot when you are ready to slurp some noodles in a delicious broth. 

I usually go with the Traditional Tonkotsu Ramen, and sometimes I either add the black garlic oil or the Spice Bomb, egg, and extra wood ear mushrooms. The broth is super flavorful and savory, and the noodles have a good chew. 

For appetizers, we usually get the crispy rice tuna and the takoyaki octopus balls. 

To be honest, the area around Tajima can feel a bit sketchy, especially around the Post Office. It is only 1-2 blocks, though, and we personally never had an issue walking through there as a couple or with a group. If you are traveling solo or planning on walking back to the Gaslamp later at night, I recommend taking a car instead.

Hodad’s Burgers

Address: 945 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 234-6323
Website
$

Yes, Hodad’s Burgers was showcased on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives a few years ago and became really popular with tourists. BUT, locals still love this place as well. 

Their burgers are simply amazing, and they have by far the best onion rings in town. Their portions are not for the faint of heart, so I recommend sharing their sides. Greg and I usually get the half order of Frings (1/2 fries & 1/2 onion rings) and it looks like the two of us barely nibbled on them when we are stuffed. 

San Diego Marina & Waterfront Restaurants

The Lion’s Share

Address: 629 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 564-6924
Website
$$

If you want something special and unique, check out The Lion’s Share in the Marina. My husband and I go there at least once a month, if not more often. The restaurant focuses on specialty meats, unique dishes, and tasty cocktails.

If wild boar bolognese, elk & water buffalo sausage, and bison short ribs sound like your kind of thing, The Lion’s Share is your spot. Probably not the best place to take your vegan or picky-eater friends, though.

I also love their design. Dark walls, decorated with oil paintings that remind me of the Chronicles of Narnia give this place a unique vibe.

They have a fantastic Happy Hour every day from 4-6 PM (except Mondays, when they are closed), which includes a few tasty bites, but most importantly, their best offer: A burger & a beer for $21. Say what??

This is pretty much unheard of in San Diego outside of a fast-food joint. But also try their regular dinner menu. They have so many delicious options and always come up with fun new creations.

Sally’s

Address: 1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 358-6740
Website
$$$

After being closed for what felt like forever during a full renovation, Sally’s is back — and it was worth the wait. Tucked along the Marina at the Manchester Grand Hyatt, this upscale seafood spot has one of the best Marina-side views downtown and a modern, polished interior that feels worlds away from the older waterfront restaurants nearby.

The menu draws heavily from SoCal Baja coastal cuisine, which means lots of fresh local fish prepared with bright, citrusy, and lightly spiced influences rather than the heavy butter-and-cream approach you get at the more traditional steak-and-seafood spots on this list. 

Everything is artfully plated, but in a way that still feels like food you actually want to eat (not the kind of fine dining where you leave hungry). The raw bar is excellent, the fish is genuinely fresh, and the cocktail program is well thought-out — not just an afterthought, which I always appreciate at a fish-forward restaurant.

This is one of my favorite picks for a dinner date before a Rady Shell concert — it’s a short walk along the Embarcadero from the restaurant to the venue. It’s also great for a special occasion or for impressing out-of-town guests, since the combination of food, view, and ambiance hits all the notes you want for a memorable San Diego dinner without falling into the “all view, mediocre food” trap so many waterfront places fall into.

Animae

Address: 969 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 432-1225
Website
$$$

Located in the heart of the Marina District, this steak house with an Asian twist, created by star chef Brian Malarkey, will entertain your taste buds. Executive Chef Tara Mansod has created a menu that celebrates her Filipino-American heritage and is one of the most unique steakhouse experiences in San Diego.

Try some of the best A5 Wagyu steaks in San Diego paired with some unique menu items that you won’t find on your regular ol’ steak house menu, such as crispy pig’s ears, short rib kare kare, and more.

The ambiance is glamorous and cozy. Moss green plush sofas, golden-brown velvet curtains, and dimmed lighting make the decor very cozy and nature-inspired.

Zytoun

Address: 881 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 333-3011
Website
$$

When I’m craving Mediterranean and don’t want to think too hard about it, Zytoun is my go-to in the Seaport Village area. It sits right on the bayfront walking path, so you can grab a table, watch the boats go by, and not pay the steep price tag that most waterfront restaurants downtown charge for the privilege.

The portions are huge. Like, “we’ll be eating this for lunch tomorrow” huge — which is rare for a downtown spot at this price point. 

The Borak and the Chicken Shawarma are my consistent favorites, and unlike a lot of Mediterranean places where the salads feel like an afterthought, theirs are fresh, well-dressed, and substantial enough to be a meal on their own.

This is a great casual option to pair with a walk along the Embarcadero, and it’s one of the few places downtown where you can eat well on the water without it being a “special occasion” expense. It also works well if you have a mixed group — vegetarians, picky eaters, and meat-and-potatoes types are all going to find something they actually want to eat.

Shorebird

Address: 885 W Harbor Dr Suite B1, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 775-1217
Website
$$$

If you’re looking for the prettiest table downtown, Shorebird is the answer. The restaurant is built on stilts directly over the water — not just near the bay like everywhere else along the Embarcadero, but literally over it. The view is unbeatable, especially at sunset, and unlike most spots with this kind of “wow factor” setting, the food actually holds up.

Greg and I save Shorebird for date nights and for when friends are in town and we want to show off. The menu is genuinely all over the map in the best way — burgers, sushi, locally caught fish, pasta — so it’s a perfect pick when you’ve got a group that can’t agree on what they’re in the mood for. I tend to gravitate toward the fish and the sushi rolls (the kitchen takes both seriously, which not every “everything menu” restaurant can pull off), while Greg almost always goes for the burger.

It’s on the pricier end, but you’re paying for the location and the consistency, not the typical waterfront-restaurant-coasting-on-the-view setup that I’m always warning people about. Make a reservation, ask for a table on the water side, and time it for sunset if you can.

Trattoria Seneca

Address: 901 Bayfront Ct Level 19, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 877-8642
Website
$$$

This rooftop bar and restaurant inside the InterContinental Hotel is one of my favorite Italian places. We took my mother-in-law there for her birthday and it made for a really special evening. The views from the 19th floor over the bay and Coronado are spectacular and the layout of tables on the terrace makes for a cozy and intimate experience.

Their food is also fantastic. Our favorite is the wood-fired shrimp appetizer. The shrimp were cooked perfectly and had the perfect char and smokiness from the wood oven. We shared a bunch of other dishes, and each was fantastic. Another must-try is the 30-layer lasagne. It just melts in your mouth. Sooo good!

Malibu Farm

Address: 831 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 695-2300
Website
$$

If you’re looking for a breakfast or brunch spot on the waterfront that isn’t a tourist trap, Malibu Farm is one of my favorite recent additions to Seaport Village. This California-coastal eatery was a long time coming (we watched the build-out for what felt like forever from our place across the street), and it was worth the wait.

The menu is modern American with a real focus on fresh, local, and seasonal — and unlike most brunch spots downtown, they actually have something genuinely good for everyone in your group, whether they’re vegan, vegetarian, or full-on carnivore. Greg and I have made it a regular weekend rotation. My pick is the Surfer’s Rancheros, and the Tofu Scramble is shockingly good even if you’re not usually a tofu person. Don’t skip their housemade hot sauces — the mango-habanero and apple-serrano are fruity, spicy, and unlike anything else you’ll get downtown. Ask for both.

The patio overlooking the bay is what you want on a sunny morning, and there’s almost always a wait on weekends, so come early or be ready to walk around Seaport Village while you wait. 

Brigantine’s

Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 719-4960
Website
$$

Some say Brigantine’s has the best fish tacos in San Diego. While this is a hot topic and I personally love the fish tacos at Mitch’s more, Brigantine’s at Portside Pier offers one of the best view/food combinations in the city. Too often, a restaurant thinks they can get away with mediocre food just because they have a spectacular view.

Well, Brigantine has both! The views over the San Diego Bay and the Star of India are such a gorgeous backdrop for a special meal. I am a swordfish lover, and it is one of those dishes that not many restaurants get right. Often it is too dry and overcooked. Brigantine’s does it perfectly, every time! Their fish and chips and the Branzino are also fantastic.

Popular Spots We Personally Skip (And Why)

No hate to the following restaurants, it is just personal preference for us. These restaurants are extremely popular, and many people love them. Many locals love these spots — they’re just not where we spend our own money.

Morning Glory (Little Italy)

Yes, it is beautiful, and they have Soufflé pancakes and delicious cocktails. But the line… I just can’t deal with that before coffee!

Puesto (Waterfront)

Puesto has incredible cocktails and appetizers, but their mains are mediocre and overpriced. Head there for Happy Hour and grab dinner somewhere else.

Filippe’s Pizza Grotto (Little Italy)

This place has been in business for 75 years, so they must be doing something right. Yes, they do. It is great American Italian fare, with generous portions and relatively low cost. It just isn’t my taste. I have tried to like this place, but I very much prefer Mona Lisa up the street or Volare in Point Loma.

Cheese Cake Factory (Waterfront)

You can eat at a Cheesecake Factory in any mall in America. You’re in San Diego — go to Lou & Mickey’s or Dobson’s for a similar price and an actual San Diego experience.

Ironside (Little Italy)

Another stunning place, and they do have some tasty items, such as their Lobster rolls, and their cocktails are top. But I feel you can get much fresher seafood at lower prices elsewhere. I much prefer the Raw Bar offer at Lou & Mickey’s in the Gaslamp, for example, and the Aquachile at Mitch’s Seafood in Point Loma.

FAQs

The Bottom Line

Downtown San Diego has one of the best food scenes in California, but it’s also one of the easiest places to get burned by a pretty view and a mediocre plate. The 25 restaurants above are the spots Greg and I actually go back to — for date nights, weeknight dinners, friends in town, and the occasional “we don’t feel like cooking” Tuesday. We re-test and update this guide a few times a year as new places open (and old favorites slip), so save it or bookmark it and check back before your next downtown dinner.

Save This Guide for Later

? Pin this to Pinterest so it’s there when you’re planning your next downtown night out — there’s a pin-friendly graphic at the top of this post.

What’s Your Favorite?

If you live downtown or visit often: what’s the one restaurant I missed that deserves a spot on this list? Drop it in the comments — I read every single one, and the best recommendations often end up here in the next update (with credit to you).

Planning Your Trip to Downtown San Diego?

Here’s what to read next:

• The Best Boutique Hotels in San Diego — where to stay within walking distance of every restaurant on this list
• Seaport Village: 20+ Things To Do — most of our waterfront picks are right here
• Best Restaurants in San Diego — our picks beyond downtown, from La Jolla to Coronado
• The Rady Shell: A Local’s Review — pair Sally’s or Shorebird with a concert
• Coming soon: Our complete Little Italy restaurant guide — join the newsletter to know when it’s live

Don’t Miss Our Next Restaurant Review

We share new San Diego restaurant reviews, hotel picks, and local travel tips every couple of weeks. The best way to keep up is to subscribe to our newsletter (no spam, just the good stuff) or follow us on YouTube for restaurant tours and neighborhood walkthroughs.

Last Updated on May 21, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post 25 Best Downtown San Diego Restaurants in 2026 (From a Local) appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

I just returned from a Press Trip to Chiapas after attending Tianguis Touristico in Acapulco for the third time. The trip was hosted and organized by the Chiapas Tourism Board. I am sharing with you the Chiapas itinerary, helpful tips for visiting each location, hotel recommendations, and everything I wish I knew before the trip!

Trip Overview

This 4-day Chiapas itinerary is jam-packed and will not leave you bored. You will explore 3 Mayan archeological sites, 3 jaw-droppingly beautiful waterfalls, and 2 picturesque Magical Towns, hike in the jungle, and discover the mountain town of San Cristóbal.

This is NOT a relax and chill kind of itinerary. It is jam-packed with multiple top attractions per day and sometimes requires several hours in the car to get from one destination to the next. If you want to slow it down a bit, I recommend adding an extra night at Camp Top Che and including a farm tour, a Mayan cooking class, and another night in San Cristóbal to explore the cute colonial town, sip hot chocolate, and go shopping.

The best way to get around is to hire a driver or rent a car if you feel comfortable driving on curvy, narrow mountain roads. You can expect to budget about $ 900-2000 per person for a 4 day trip to Chiapas, depending on your travel style.

How to get to Starting Point Palenque (Day 0)

Our Chiapas itinerary starts in Palenque, and the closest airport is Villahermosa, which is about 2h 15 min by car from Palenque. There is a small airport in Palenque, but flights there are quite expensive and rather limited.

I recommend flying into Villahermosa on day 0, as our itinerary is already packed and you want to get to Palenque Archeological Site as early in the morning as possible. I stayed at the Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque, which was clean and comfortable, and I loved their outdoor restaurant.

Chiapas Itinerary Map:

Day 1: Palenque Archeological Site & El Salto Waterfall & Night Hike Through Lacandon Jungle

On your first full day in Chiapas, you will experience already 3 incredible highlights that this region has to offer: Palenque Maya Ruins, El Salto Waterfall, and a Night Hike through the jungle with a Mayan guide. This is a full day, so don’t skimp on breakfast before you head out.

Palenque Archeological Site:

The Palenque Archeological Site, a UNESCO Heritage site, is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Chiapas. It is only about 20 minutes from Palenque Ciudad, and I recommend you go there as soon as they open at 8:30 AM to avoid crowds and the heat.

The archeological site in Palenque is enormous. It stretches over 6.8 square miles and consists of over 1400 buildings, of which about only 10% have been excavated so far. The Mayan city of Palenque was founded about 2200 years ago, and the peak time of this Mayan settlement was 600-800 CE. Only the Archeological site of Tikal in Guatemala was home to a larger Mayan settlement than Palenque.

The park is designed to follow a one-way path through the whole area and then pass through the jungle to the exit, which is NOT the same as the entrance. The best way to visit Palenque is to use a Taxi or shared van, or join a tour group, so you don’t have to worry about getting back to your car.

What I liked best about Palenque is that it felt extremely well-restored and maintained. To me, Palenque is exactly how I had imagined a Mayan ruin, and it was fascinating to see the incredible architecture of this lost civilization. I also really enjoyed the beautiful downhill hike through the jungle along the waterfall towards the exit.

Plan to be there about 2-4 hours.

El Salto Waterfall:

The next stop on your itinerary is El Salto Waterfall. It is about 1 h 10 minutes by car from Palenque. The main waterfall rises about 65 ft (20m) in the background, with cascades and pools of bright turquoise water below

Here you can go ziplining through the jungle canopy, kayaking, swimming, and hiking. I am not a fan of heights, so I opted out of the zipline and instead followed the trail down to the base of the waterfall to take some photos. It was stunning.

And the best part? We had this place almost to ourselves. There were 3 other couples there and a handful of local teenagers, and this was during a Holiday weekend (Mexican Labor Day). I kept on thinking to myself that in the US, you’d have to share a beautiful place like this with hundreds of other tourists. On the way back from the waterfall, I even saw some Howler monkeys playing in the trees.

Our group also had lunch at El Salto, a traditional Chicken Mole that was extremely flavorful and rich. The mole was cooked in an outdoor kitchen on open flames and had been simmering for hours. So delicious! After hearing that I like spicy food, they even shared their homemade chili oil with me. So good, but it definitely added some kick to the dish!

Lacandon Jungle Night Hike:

Lacandon is a sprawling and biodiverse rainforest along the Western border between Mexico and Guatemala. It takes about 2 hours from El Salto to Lacandon Jungle – perfect time for a refreshing nap in the car.

Lacandon is home to the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve and the Lacandon tribe of the Mayan People. It is known as the “Amazon of North America” and is home to 25% of all animal species and 33% of all bird species found in Mexico.

After checking into our eco-lodge and taking a quick swim in the small river behind the camp, we met our Mayan guide Salatiel for our night hike through the jungle. Salatiel, clad in a traditional Mayan robe and Crocs, handed us headlamps, and off we went. I am still in awe of how nimbly he hiked in those shoes, as I barely kept up in my heavy-duty hiking boots.

As we walked, he pointed out various wildlife to us, including various spiders, bats, bugs, cockroaches, and moths. I also spotted a huge black scorpion on our path, and we watched it for a while. The most stunning encounter was seeing the metamorphosis of the local cicadas, which we found in various stages of transformation, ranging from a strange, alien-looking thing to a translucent, fairy-like beauty.

This 2-hour hike was one of my favorite experiences in Chiapas! To book a tour with Salatiel, you can find him on Instagram.

Where to Stay in Lacandon Jungle: Top Che Camp

We spent the night at Top Che Camp, an Eco Lodge run by a local Mayan family. You can spend the night in a traditional thatched-roof private hut with a private ensuite (cold water only). The accommodation is basic, but perfect for really experiencing where you are. We had a thunderstorm roll in overnight, and it was magical to hear the jungle sounds mixed with the splatter of rain and thunder. It sounded like one of the “soundscapes” that I sometimes listen to when I can’t fall asleep.

If you decide to add another day here, you can also check out the other activities the camp offers, including white water rafting, farm tours, cooking, and art classes.

Day 2: Bonampak Archeological Site & Yaxchilan Archeological Site & Pitstop in Guatemala

Day 2 is another long, but oh-so-worth-it day, filled with two incredible and very distinct Mayan ruins, a fun boat ride on the Usumacinta River, and a quick stop in Guatemala.

Bonampak Archeological Site:

The Bonampak Archeological Site is just 30 minutes from Camp Top Che, and I also recommend getting there early (it opens at 8 AM). Our minivan was not allowed to drive directly to the entrance, so we paid some local drivers to take us down the dirt road to the entrance, which took approximately another 8-10 minutes. We were the first ones in the park and enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere until a larger tour group arrived, luckily, when we were on our way out.

There is only one main temple at Bonampak, but you will regret skipping this one, even if it is small. Bonampak means “painted walls” in the local Mayan dialect, and there you will find the most elaborate and well-preserved wall paintings and frescoes.

Right in the middle of the pyramid, there are 3 rooms, covered from floor to ceiling, with the most intricate and colorful wall paintings depicting scenes of daily life, war, and celebrations. The colors were still so vibrant and eye-catching that they looked like they had been painted a few decades ago, not in 790 CE.

You can easily explore this place in about 1-2 hours.

Yaxchilan Archeological Site: Usumacinta River

After about a 1-hour drive, you will arrive at Frontera Corozal, right on the banks of the Usumacinta River, the border to Guatemala. From there, you can hire a local boat to take you to the Yaxchilan Archeological Site. It closes at 3 PM, so I recommend grabbing lunch afterward.

What makes these ruins so special is that they can only be reached by water. The boat ride is pretty smooth and takes about 45 minutes, passing by lush jungle and sandy river banks.

After a short hike through the jungle, you make your way through the first building, also known as “The Labyrinth”, which includes some pitch-black hallways and staircases. From there, you enter the main courtyard, surrounded by more ancient temples, leading up to the “Grand Staircase” leading up to building 33. This staircase is not for the faint of heart. It is quite crumbly and very steep. Wear good footwear and watch where you are stepping.

If you go around Building 33, you can follow a narrow hiking path to the South Acropolis. I skipped out on this, as those stairs in the heat and humidity humbled me, and I needed to take a break.

The atmosphere at Yaxchilan was so different than the other ruins. It felt like I had stepped onto a movie set for Indiana Jones or Tomb Raider. It felt dark and mysterious. When I later learned that the Mayan People often held blood-letting ceremonies here to induce visions of the future, I was not surprised to have felt a dark energy there.

Pit Stop in Guatemala:

On the way back, we convinced our boat captain to make a quick pit stop on the Guatemalan side of the river. There was no official border crossing and no border patrol agents to check in with. Kind of like in Europe, and personally, I believe that is how borders should be.

Since this isn’t an officially sanctioned border crossing, don’t count on every boat captain agreeing to it — and if they do, keep it brief and don’t push your luck. We only stayed long enough to snap some photos and pick up some Guatemalan beer before heading back to Mexico. Necessary? Nope, but it adds a fun little anecdote to your trip, and if you are a country-counter, you can add a new country to your list.

Afterward, and safely back in Mexico, we had lunch at Frontera Corozal before our 3-hour drive back to Palenque.

Including the 45-minute each-way boat ride, exploring Yaxchilan, the stop in Guatemala, and lunch, we spent 4.5-5 hours here. To save time, order your food at one of the restaurants at Frontera Corozal before you visit the ruins, and it will be hot and waiting for you when you get back.

Where to Stay in Palenque:

Just like on our arrival night, we stayed at Hotel Ciudad Real Palenque again. It has a beautiful pool and lush gardens, and its outdoor restaurant is beautiful. The food, especially the included breakfast, is quite tasty as well. After our long day exploring, a quick dinner at the hotel was just the easiest and best option.

Day 3: Misol Ha & Agua Azul Waterfall & San Cristóbal de las Casas

Day 3 of this Chiapas Itinerary will take you to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Mexico before heading to the Magical Town of San Cristóbal de las Casas in the mountains to cool off. This day includes a few hours in the car, so be prepared and buy some snacks.

Misol Ha Waterfall:

Just about 45 minutes from Palenque is the Misol Ha Waterfall, plunging down from over 100 feet (35m). Once you walk down the stairs to the water, you can either turn right to climb over some boulders and swim in the water or turn left and hike behind the waterfall.

Misol Ha reminded me of the famous Seljalandsfoss waterfall in Iceland that you can also walk behind. And despite this gorgeous location, there were only a handful of other visitors, giving it an untouched, pristine atmosphere. There are also not many vendors or shops, and the one restaurant nearby was closed, so if you want to spend more than 1-2 hours here, bring something to drink and some snacks.

Agua Azul Waterfall:

After a quick 1 h 15 minute drive, we arrived at the second waterfall for the day: The famous Agua Azul. The falls cascade down over multiple levels, each forming picturesque turquoise pools that look so pretty, you almost can’t believe they are real. I felt like I had to pinch myself to check if I was dreaming.

Yes, Agua Azul is much more touristy, and there are a ton of people there, but how could it not be? Of course, people will trek to a beautiful place like this and enjoy it. Along the hiking path to the top of the waterfall, you will find hundreds of booths selling souvenirs, clothes, food, fresh fruit, snacks, and whatever else you might need or not need. Down by the river, there are lots of cute little restaurants where you can enjoy a tasty meal between swims or hikes. I wish we could have spent more time here, but we still had a 4-hour drive to San Cristóbal ahead of us.

San Cristóbal de las Casas:

The 4-hour drive to San Cristóbal is extremely curvy, narrow, and dangerous. If you rent a car and drive yourself, DO NOT DRIVE this road after dark. You will pass through some very remote areas in the jungle, so be safe and don’t risk it. If you hire a driver and you are prone to motion sickness, take some medication and sit in the front seat.

After all these warnings on roads and driving, you might wonder: Why should I even go to San Cristóbal? Is it worth it? 100% yes it is worth it. Once you step out of the car, you will see what I mean. After 3 days of temperatures near 100F (37C) and close to 100% humidity, you will open the car door and feel: a chill, a cool breeze, and air that doesn’t feel like you are breathing through a wet towel. This cute colonial town is located at around 7200ft (2200m), and the climate is completely different from that in the jungle below.

Stretch your legs and explore the main square and pedestrian areas lined with shops and restaurants, shop the beautiful boutiques selling local clothes and crafts, or try local delicacies (they are famous for their chocolate and coffee). After roughing it in jungle camps and playing Lara Croft in the Mayan ruins, it feels good to be back in civilization. If you want to extend this itinerary, this is the perfect place to add a relaxing extra day.

Where to Stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas:

Another reason why I would have loved to spend an extra day or two in San Cristóbal was our hotel. We stayed 2 nights at the Hotel Diego de Mazariegos, and it was by far my favorite hotel of this trip. This colonial-style hotel had amazing historic rooms (but with modern amenities), and the cutest little courtyard.

Its location was also perfect, just 1 block from the main square and the Catedral de San Cristóbal de las Casas. The only thing: skip the hotel breakfast and go to the magical bread shop (El Horno Mágico – literally “The Magic Oven”) on your way to the square. So delicious!

Day 4: Chiapa de Corzo Magical Town & Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour & Indigenous Village Zinacantan

On the 4th and last day of this Chiapas Itinerary, you’ll explore the Magical Town of Chiapa de Corzo, enjoy the scenic boat ride through Sumidero Canyon, and visit the Indigenous Village Zinacantan.

Chiapa de Corzo Magical Town:

About 1 hour West of San Cristóbal is another Magical Town: Chiapa de Corzo. To be honest, I was NOT excited to visit here. Chiapa de Corzo is only at 1400 ft (420m), and that means we were back in the heat and humidity. But once I got there, I quickly realized it was worth it. This cute little colonial town, right on the Rio Grijalva, is the gateway to the famous Sumidero Canyon, best explored by boat. So let’s jump right to that experience.

Sumidero Canyon Boat Tour:

We signed up for the 2-hour boat tour through Sumidero Canyon and arrived just in time for our 10 AM departure. This is also the recommended time, as it is still relatively cool and the wind is low. I have heard that sometimes the wind around lunchtime and in the afternoon can be so strong that all boat tours are canceled.

The beginning of the boat tour was honestly quite boring. The river is very wide and not very picturesque. But after about 15 minutes, you pass an old metal bridge crossing the river, and all of a sudden, you feel like you are in a set of The Fellowship of the Ring and expect the Argonath (the Pillars of the Kings) appearing just around the corner. The towering cliffs rise to 3280 ft (1000m) above the river. It feels majestic.

The boats do not have a roof, so don’t forget to bring a hat and sunscreen. I forgot my hat and bought the one I am wearing in the photos for 200 pesos. What a steal and a perfect souvenir!

For lunch, we stopped at Hotel Mansion Chiapa, a cute little boutique hotel right in the city center. The food was fantastic and the rooms looked very nice as well, so if you want to add a night in Chiapa de Corzo, I would stay here.

Zinacantan:

Zinacantan, a typical Chiapas town with a large indigenous population, is famous for its flower market and the perfect place to learn more about the local culture and traditions.

Our time here was limited, but we got to visit Pox Mol Palás, an artisanal distillery and weavery run by a local family. We learned about the distillation process of Pox (pronounced posh), a ceremonial drink of the indigenous Tzotzil Maya communities of Chiapas made from fermented corn, wheat, and sugarcane. Once distilled, the liquor is often mixed with other flavors, such as coffee, hibiscus, cardamom, and more, and you can do a little Pox tasting to find your favorite flavor. I really liked the cardamom and coffee-flavored Pox.

The mountain regions of Chiapas are also famous for its colorful fabrics and clothing. We were able to watch the intricate weaving process and learned about how they dye the wool, using natural materials such as Bougainvillea, Turmeric, and other plants and spices to create vibrant fabrics.

You can also buy some beautiful handcrafted souvenirs and artwork, Pox in various flavors, and of course, clothing and decor made from the handwoven fabric.

Where to Stay in San Cristóbal de las Casas:

From Zinacantan, we returned to San Cristóbal to spend another night at our beautiful hotel, Diego de Mazariegos, before heading to the airport in Tuxtla, the capital of Chiapas.

More Time For Chiapas? Add These Sights to Your Itinerary:

If you want to extend your trip to Chiapas, here are some other top sights that you can add to your Chiapas itinerary.

San Juan Chamula:

Chamula is less than 30 minutes from San Cristóbal and another indigenous village, where the majority of the population is of Tzotzil Maya descent. They are especially known for their religious rituals, which blend Mayan rituals with Catholic traditions. Please note: Photos without consent are highly frowned upon, as many locals believe that taking their picture will steal their soul. Please be respectful of the local traditions.

El Chiflón:

About 2.5 hours south of San Cristóbal is another breathtaking waterfall called El Chiflón. It drops almost 400 feet (120m), and the photos look spectacular. You can hike all the way to the top (if the 800 steps don’t scare you!) and along the way swim in the bright aquamarine pools to cool off. I already added it to my list of things I need to see when I return to Chiapas.

Montebello Lakes:

Montebello Lakes National Park is about 1h 45 minutes further from El Chiflón and 4.5 hours from San Cristóbal. Many day tours from San Cristóbal combine the two, but beware that it makes for a very long day of driving.

There are 59 lakes in the park, as well as cenotes and limestone caves to explore. You can also visit the Mayan ruins of Chinkultic. If you can, I would recommend spending the night at one of the cabins on Tziscao Lake, especially if you want to combine El Chiflón and Montebello Lakes.

Things to Consider Before You Go to Chiapas

Fitness and Mobility:

A trip to Chiapas is an active vacation, not a relaxing holiday. Exploring the ruins and waterfall in this region will require you to climb hundreds of steep and crumbly stairs and hike on rugged paths through the jungle. This physical activity, combined with the high heat and humidity, can feel very strenuous. Even just walking around San Cristóbal with its cobblestoned streets and high sidewalks can be challenging if you have mobility issues.

I often go hiking on the weekends and run about 10-15 miles per week on average, and I was definitely out of breath by the time I got to the top of some of the ruins.

Driving Time & Road Conditions:

While distances in Chiapas are not too great, the road conditions and curvy roads through the Sierra Madre Mountains will definitely slow you down. I highly recommend hiring a driver if you can (budget about $USD 150-200 per day). Yes, it is expensive, but as your days are so packed with adventure, sitting back and relaxing during the long drives is definitely worth it. And let me assure you, driving in Chiapas is NOT for the faint of heart.

Internet and Connectivity:

In Palenque and San Cristóbal, you don’t have to worry about getting a signal, but pretty much anywhere else, you do. Many restaurants or lodges sell internet access in 30 or 60-minute packages, but don’t rely on constant connectivity.

FAQs

If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Mexico with a cultural and eco-tourism focus, then Chiapas is a fantastic choice. I can’t wait to return and explore more of this beautiful region!

Last Updated on May 20, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post 4 Days in Chiapas: Realistic Itinerary for First-Time Visitors appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

A mere 90-minute drive from San Diego, just across the Mexican border, Valle de Guadalupe in sunny Baja, is a premier, somewhat off-the-beaten-trek wine region producing almost 90 percent of all Mexican wines. And though it may not be as well-known as some more familiar US wine regions, the “Valle” as the locals call it is one of the fastest growing wine regions in North America producing some of the finest award-winning varietals earning well-deserved international acclaim. 

To be there during the grape harvest (this year in August) is an amazing experience, but any time of year is ideal for a wine lover’s escape. And El Cielo in Valle de Guadalupe was the best place to experience it all.

Staying at the El Cielo Resort

In Spanish “Cielo” means “sky” or “heaven.” And heavenly is the perfect way to describe a stay, play and dining experience at this dreamy, unforgettable property. Set amidst mountains, olive trees and surrounded by verdant vines, El Cielo offers a boutique hotel experience in elegant Tuscan-style villas situated on a picturesque mirrored lake.

Guests can choose between junior king or two-queen suites, a master suite or book the entire residence that includes the master on the ground floor and two junior suites on the second level. An executive three-bedroom villa is also available for families or a group of friends traveling together as well as an extravagant Presidential Villa. And best of all, the resort is quite pet friendly.

My accommodations included a master suite with a fully-equipped kitchen, living room, dining room, gas fireplace, two bathrooms and a king room. The master bath featured a spa-jetted tub that overlooked the vineyards. An outdoor patio offered comfortable seating around a fire pit, available only to master suite or entire residence guests. Junior suites do however, offer an outdoor balcony.

The property features an outdoor pool with plenty of seating, ideal for cooling down on a warm Baja day along with a full fitness center.

Because the resort is so popular for weddings, there is a stunning wedding chapel on site that’s also open to those wishing to attend Catholic mass. But that also means, that rooms go quickly, especially during harvest season, so hurry up and reserve now!

Playing at the Resort

Though wine-related activities are always fun, there’s something about resort experiences during the harvest that bring a special note. 

Nothing could possibly beat getting up at 6 a.m. to get ready to join the vineyard manager for the first day of vendimia. The first handpicked vines were Chardonnay, and I and my friends learned about the harvest process and got to clip some the grapes to be used in the processing.

A narrated vineyard tour through the vineyards in a shaded wagon accompanied by three tastings of El Cielo wine labels culminated in a fun grape-stomping experience. One of the most fascinating activities was our introduction to El Cielo’s falconry program to learn about their role in the winery’s sustainability efforts. The gorgeous birds of prey are absolutely fascinating, as is the patient and dedicated trainer.

Aside from the variety of wine-tasting experiences, guests can also create their own wine in a blend-your-own-wine activity in the winery’s cave complete with your own label name, along with a wine and chocolate pairing that includes virtual reality goggles, making the activity even more adventurous and exciting.

Wine-Tasting Experiences

As a wine lover and aficionado, I gladly proclaim that the wines at El Cielo are outstanding. Winemaker Jesús Rivera and his team have produced varietals for every type of palate including enormously bold reds, mineral and sparkling whites, and one of my favorites during my visit, a selection of tantalizing rosés.

Wine labels sport astronomically themed names such as Andromeda, Cassiopeia, Capricornius, Galileo, Hypatia, Orion, and more.

The Astros line features young wines and varietal blends characterized by fresh flavors, fruity expressions and elegance. Astronomers line was inspired by old-world style wines with the Mexican terroir touch. These classic blends reflect the expression of classic grapes in a new-world style.

The winery’s Constellations Line showcases New World wines through innovative blends while G& G by Ginasommelier Line was born from the vision of the impressive, world-renowned Sommelier Gina Estrada and estate co-owner Gustavo Ortega designed to tempt and delight the palate. Stars Line represents El Cielo’s premium collection, considered the best oenological gems of quality wines.

Dining at El Cielo

El Cielo is an absolute culinary haven and restaurants on property offer an amazing selection of delights for the food lover.

Latitud 32

Signature restaurant Latitud 32 earned a mention in the 2024 Michelin Guide Mexico. The chic, classy indoor-outdoor venue open for breakfast, lunch and dinner serves a delightful, delectable Yucatán-Baja fusion menu that tantalizes the palate. If it’s not too warm, ask to be seated at an outdoor table commanding prized views of the valley’s landscape.

Inside, the rustic elegant setting includes high ceilings, stone and brick-lined walls and floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors. Service is exceptional and if you’re looking for wine-pairing selections, servers here are extremely knowledgeable.

Due to El Cielo’s proximity to the Baja coast of Ensenada, seafood is as fresh as it can possibly be. For lunch, our group of friends drooled over a seafood oyster tower. Another treat was the Maya Ceviche with octopus, fish and shrimp marinated in citrus, habanero oil and black recado and a Tuna Tiradito in Pipián (lime and sesame oil marinated tuna).

Dinner is a special time of day when the sun sets behind the mountains and the restaurant lights up with vibrant hues, leading to romantic lights strung outside of the venue. Grilled octopus is an incredible starter cooked and served in a cast iron skillet with a truffle oil dressing and paprika.

Don’t miss the Mayan Seafood dish, a homemade pasta with a hearty serving of shrimp, clams and mussels flambéed in Xtabentún liqueur and Edam cheese. If Nasty Cake is on the menu, head straight for this chocolate-lover’s delight topped with fresh strawberries.

Polaris Restaurant

This second-floor restaurant at the El Cielo winery stands out for its haute cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Focusing on seasonal products, the breakfast-only restaurant features impressive weekend buffets and a la carte selections throughout the week.

Guests can choose between light and healthy menu items like a smoothie bowl, fresh fruits and granola or head to something a bit heartier. 

These selections include Huevos Ranchero, Chilaquiles and Chef Specialties such as Crab Benedict, Croque-Monsieur and Steak and Eggs. The orange juice is fresh-squeezed and green juice is another popular and tasty selection.

Other not-to-be-missed El Cielo dining experiences include Dining Under the Stars Terrace with a fun and festive barbecue theme and a private, intimate, romantic candlelight multi-course tasting dinner with wine pairing at Enoteca. 

An unknown author once said “The discovery of wine is of greater moment than the discovery of a constellation.”

A visit to Valle de Guadalupe’s magnificent El Cielo gives visitors both discoveries – incredible, quality wines, many named after constellations, and clear, starry night skies that make this destination so magical.

Last Updated on October 3, 2025 by Maria Haase

The post Harvest Magic at El Cielo in Valle De Guadalupe appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Since literally coming back from the dead, Rams Hill has earned two coveted Golf Digest Top 100 U.S. Courses rankings and become one of the top public courses in Southern California. From 2010 to 2014, the Tom Fazio designed par-72 masterpiece was abandoned by its former owners after the course’s water rights were sold. It wasn’t long before trees died and lush fairways turned brown. New owners immediately poured $10 million into the property, securing irrigation from six native wells, planting new seed, investing in bentgrass greens and a 3 ½-acre solar farm. The remodeled and expanded clubhouse now includes a fine-dining restaurant and bar.

GOLFING RAMS HILL

We came from all over to experience “remote destination golf” as Rams Hill GM Harry Turner calls it–Daniel from LA’s Koreatown, a 3-hour-15-minute drive; Rich from central Orange County, 2 hours, 15 minutes away; and Jim from Scottsdale, Ariz., a 5-hour drive broken up by an overnight stay in Yuma, Ariz. 

With five sets of tees, ranging from 7,200 yards to just under 5,000 yards, Rams Hill can handle all levels of players. We played our first round from the white tees (5,824 yards) and our second round from the blues (6,369). Naturally, we all scored better from the whites.

The expansive Bermuda grass fairways are vast and perfectly manicured, but there is plenty of trouble to be had at Rams Hill—conspicuously placed fairway bunkers, slick, undulating greens (11.5 on the stimpmeter), and wicked false fronts that prompted several F-bombs from our group.

Even though his drive from LA to Rams Hill is more than three hours, Daniel was making his fourth trip to the secluded course in six years.

“It’s classic desert golf, but it’s elevated by the contours, shapes and elevation changes,” said Daniel, whose first round was highlighted by a chip in for eagle on the par 5, 2nd hole. “It’s kind of like an amusement park for golfers.”

Mountain backdrops, elevated tees and breathtaking views of the desert floor give golfers the illusion they’re playing a mountain course at altitude, but the highest point on the course is only 800 feet. There are too many gorgeous, yet challenging holes to count, but my favorite is probably the striking downhill, downwind 556-yard, par 5 11^th. From the elevated tee box, there’s nothing but a lush, dark green fairway, endless desert floor and the Santa Rosa Mountains in the distance. There’s trouble on the right (a massive bunker) and the left (a water feature that flows into a lake), and somehow my 240-tee shot and my 3-hybrid approach stayed in the fairway.  With a no-stress pitch to the peninsula green and two putts, I made par, finally besting my playing partner, Daniel, who settled for bogey.

Despite its challenges around the greens and fairways, Rams Hill moves rather quickly for a public course. We played both rounds in four hours, at least an hour less than a round at most public courses in San Diego County. The free post-round apple-caramel cookie is a nice touch as well. The green fees are reasonable–$170 weekdays and $230 on Friday-Sunday in January, about $100 less than Aviara, another highly-rated public course in Carlsbad. As the weather warms, Rams Hills’ rates increase to $195 weekdays and $245 weekends for March-May. 

STAY AND PLAY PACKAGES AT RAMS HILL

The most economical and sensible way to golf Rams Hill is playing 18 holes, then staying overnight at one of Rams Hills’ 15 properties surrounding the course and playing another round the next days. We stayed at the luxurious House on the Hill, a 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom house overlooking the 15^th fairway. The house sleeps up to eight people and comes with a barbecue on one of the outdoor patios and a golf simulator in the garage—our group foolishly failed to use either. 

Since it was a Monday, the clubhouse’s restaurant closed early and we opted for margaritas, carnitas tacos and Monday night football at Carmelita’s, the Mexican restaurant in town, a 10-minute drive from our house. Back at the house, we discussed the merits of a stay-and-play getaway at Rams Hill.

“This is not a golf resort, it’s a golf retreat,” Daniel said. “It’s a place you go with good friends who are really into golf. It’s a much more laid-back experience than a resort, a nice place for bonding with good buddies.”

The House on the Hills’ outdoor patios and a rooftop deck are perfect for stargazing, sipping margaritas or craft brews and enjoying the solitude of desert life.

“It’s so clear outside you can see the space stations come over every night,” said Turner, the Rams Hill GM. “You turn the lights off, it’s dark. You turn the TV off, it’s quiet.”

About the only noise we heard were coyotes, who were patrolling the fairways and greens in the wee hours. The House on the Hill, which Rams Hill owns, rents for $750 to $1,700 a night, depending on the season. The other 14 properties Rams Hill manages range from $200 a night to $2,000, depending on the size and the season. In 2017, day trippers were our primary customer.  Eight years ago, most Rams’ customers played 18 holes and then immediately made the adventurous drive home to beat sunset. Now, stay and play golfers make up nearly 40% of Rams’ players. 

WHAT’S ON THE HORIZON AT RAMS HILL? A MINI-BANDON DUNES?

There have been rumors about plans of a second course on the Rams Hill property for several years. Turner said it’s no longer a rumor; a second course is in the works. He expects to break ground next year. The new course doesn’t have a name yet, but it will be built just northeast of Rams Hill, and it will share the same clubhouse.

“We’d break ground tomorrow if we could, but we have to get the specific plan amended and that won’t happen until the second half of 2026,” Turner said. “The good news is, we have all the water we need for our entire development already in place.” 

The best news for golfers is that famed Scottish golf architect David McLay Kidd, has signed on to the project. After starting his design career at Bandon Dunes in 1999, Kidd has gone to lay out masterpieces such as Gamble Sands in Washington, Mammoth Dunes at Sand Valley in Wisconsin and the new GrayBull in Nebraska. 

“We want the new course to be way different than Rams Hills,” Turner said. “We’ve got a wonderful Fazio course already here, so the intent is to do something that’s more in line with a links style course and David is good at that.”

Turner cautions against any comparisons to Bandon Dunes, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t aiming high.

“We’re never going to have six golf courses like Bandon,” he said. “The goal is to develop remote destination golf. As long as you’re coming this far, we want to give you a chance to play two great bucket list golf courses that are completely different, with onsite accommodations so you capture revenue from golf, lodging and incremental revenue from food and beverage.”

The first phase of the second-course project is already underway. Construction started on four of 16 four-bedroom cottages planned to accommodate the extra players. Seating at the clubhouse’s fine dining restaurant is sufficient to handle the next flood of golfers, but Turner said the kitchen will have to be expanded.

“We’ve been working on this [expansion] a long time” Turner said. “We believe that remote destination golf can work here, but we do have a high bar.”

Photo Credit: Troy Knight

Last Updated on March 10, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post Rams Hill Golf Club: Desert Golfing in Borrego Springs appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

? Quick Hotel Picks by Area

La Jolla (Luxury): La Valencia → Check price
Coronado (Family): Hotel del Coronado → View deals
Mission Beach/Bay (Budget/fun): Bahia Resort → Check availability

Of course, that depends on your preferences. Are you looking for a secluded beach for a romantic moment with stunning views? Or a beach for the kids with plenty of family-friendly activities and restaurants nearby? Or are you looking for adventure, hikes, and sports amenities to entertain you all day?

?️ Quick Picks: Best San Diego Beaches

• Best overall: Mission Beach
• Best views, wildlife & adventure: La Jolla Cove
• Best for families: Mission Beach & Mission Bay
• Best for surfing & nightlife: Pacific Beach
• Best hidden beach: Windandsea
• Best sunset: Shell Beach

No matter what you are looking for, here are our recommendations for the best beaches in San Diego – recommended by a San Diego local.

14 Best Beaches in San Diego

Whether you are searching for the best family-friendly beach in San Diego, the best dog beaches in San Diego, tide pools, a fun spot to hang out with friends, or the best location to catch some waves, San Diego beaches make everyone happy. Here are some of our local favorite beaches in San Diego county.

?️ Mission Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Sunbathing, Sports, Beach Bars

Mission Beach is one of my favorite Beaches in San Diego. My husband and I often come here for our runs. There is so much to do here, whether you want to learn how to surf, rent a bike to cruise along the boardwalk, relax in the sand, or watch the world go by with a cocktail in your hand at one of the beach bars.

? Mission Beach is great for families and larger groups who want to chill on the beach, be active, and have a good time.

? Why Visit Mission Beach

• Wide, sandy beach with boardwalk
• Many sports amenities
• Fun bars and restaurants nearby
• Belmont Park Amusement Park

⚠️ Good to Know

• Parking is free, but it fills up fast
• Holiday weekends can get crowded
• Belmont Park is free; only rides/games cost money

?️ Best Experiences in Mission Beach

• ⛵️ Sunset Cruise from Mission Bay -> Check Availability
• ? Snorkel with a Marine Biologist → See available times

? Best Hotels Near Mission Beach

• Bahia Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check price for your dates
• Beachfront rental → View availability

?️ Where to Eat Nearby

• Moe’s Steak House (happy hour cheeseburger)
• The Mission (best brunch spot)

? More Things to Do in Mission Beach

• Rent a Beach Cruiser and bike along the boardwalk
• Play Volleyball
• Learn to surf

?️ Coronado Beach

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Sunbathing, Upscale, Romantic Getaway

Coronado Island is an upscale peninsula overlooking downtown San Diego on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other side. It is known for its long and wide beach, stunning luxury hotels, and fantastic restaurants.

? Coronado is SoCal’s version of the Hamptons; refined and relaxing!

? Why Visit Coronado

• Stunning luxury hotels that will pamper you
• Small town vibe with big city amenities
• One of the best photo spots in San Diego Downtown

⚠️ Good to Know

• Traffic to and from San Diego can be bad
• Not budget-friendly
• Free Parking is very limited
• Even if you don’t stay at the Hotel Del, walk through it and soak up the atmosphere

?️ Best Experiences in Coronado

• ? Fat Woody Coronado Beach Cruiser Experience -> Book Now
• ?‍♂️ Gondola Cruise through the Coronado Cays -> Check Availability

? Best Hotels in Coronado

• Hotel Del Coronado ⭐⭐⭐⭐ -> Reserve Now
• 1906 Lodge -> Check Current Deals

? See more: Best Coronado Hotels

?️ Where to Eat Nearby

• Peohe’s (stunning views of San Diego skyline + great happy hour)
• Little Frenchie (feels like you are in Paris)

? See more: Best Coronado Restaurants

? More Things to Do in Coronado

• Go shopping on Orange Avenue
• Take the ferry to San Diego
• Explore Coronado Ferry Landing

? See full guide: Things to Do on Coronado Island

?️ La Jolla Cove

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Families, Active

La Jolla Shores is the perfect Family Beach in San Diego, as well as a place for people who want to be active. There is plenty of space to spread out on this mile-long beach, the amenities are great, and there are a few family-friendly restaurants nearby.

? Perfect for active Families looking for kayaking, hiking, and chilling on the beach

? Why Visit La Jolla Shores

• Kayaking along the dramatic cliffs and sea caves
• Go Tidepooling
• Visit the Birch Aquarium

⚠️ Good to Know

• Check the tide schedule before kayaking to the caves (or ask the tour operator for the best time to go)
• Parking is free, but it fills up fast on weekends and holidays

?️ Best Experiences in La Jolla Shores

• ? Snorkel & kayak tour → Check availability
• ? Kayak sea cave tour → Book now

? Best Hotels Near La Jolla Shores

• La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club -> Check availability now
• Hotel La Jolla -> Book now

If you are coming from out of town, take a look at these stunning La Jolla Hotels and La Jolla Vacation Rentals that will make your trip extra special.

?️ Where to Eat Nearby

• Piatti (Italian fare + great service)
• Caroline’s Seaside Cafe (long wait, but stunning ocean views)

? See more: Best La Jolla Brunch Spots

? More Things to Do near La Jolla Shores

• Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
• Shopping & Galleries in La Jolla Village
• Hike Torrey Pines

? See full guide: Things to Do in La Jolla

Silver Strand State Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Families, Groups, Camping & RVs

Silver Strand State Beach – the southern part of Coronado Beach connects the Coronado peninsula to the mainland, and you can enjoy miles and miles of endless beaches.

The southern part of Coronado Beach is a State Park with limited amenities and no restaurants and bars nearby. This spot is great if you want a quiet beach with not a lot of hustle and bustle going on or if you want to camp near the beach.

? Where to stay nearby:

Gaylord Pacific -> Check availability now
Loews Coronado Bay Resort-> Book now

?️ Top Experiences near Silverstrand

• Coronado Island Segway tour → Book now
• San Diego Hop On/Hop Off Tour → Check availability

Things to do near Silverstrand: Sesame Place – Beach – Biking – Camping – Outlet Shopping – Tijuana

Amenities: Toilets – Showers – Campgrounds – RVs

Parking: State Park Entrance Fee

Pacific Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Nightlife, Groups, Surfers

Pacific Beach is where the college kids hang out. Along Grant and Garnet Street, you’ll find plenty of bars and clubs, cheap eateries, and fun coffee shops. The beach in Pacific Beach also has more of a party atmosphere, and it definitely becomes a party city during spring break.

Tourmaline Surf Park in North Pacific Beach is a surf-only beach, which is great, especially for beginner surfers.

? Where to stay nearby:

Tower23 Hotel -> Book Now
Ocean Park Inn -> Check Dates Now

?️ Top Experiences near Pacific Beach

• Surf Lessons → Book now
• Pacific Beach Bar Crawl → Check availability

Amenities: Toilets – Showers – Restaurants and Bars nearby – Pier

Parking: Free, but limited

Torrey Pines State Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Family, Groups, Nature-Lovers

Torrey Pines State Beach is located between La Jolla and Del Mar and is one of the most scenic beaches in San Diego. Towering above the sandstone cliff is the Torrey Pines Reserve with some great hiking trails. Torrey Pines State Beach is long and wide; you can walk all the way to Del Mar from here.

Torrey Pines is one of the most popular hikes in San Diego, so if you don’t like crowds, avoid this place on the weekends.

If you feel like a hike, you can actually hike up to the preserve from the beach and enjoy not only a beautiful hike but a gorgeous view from the top over the Pacific Ocean. If you are lucky, you might even spot a pod of whales. One time, my husband and I actually saw a Great White from the top of the cliffs. Very cool, but I didn’t go back in the water for a few weeks after that, ha!

? Where to stay nearby:

The Lodge at Torrey Pines -> Reserve your room now
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines -> Book now

These hotels are not located on the beach, but on the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course on a bluff overlooking the ocean.

?️ Top Experiences in La Jolla

• Kayak sea cave tour → Book your experience now
• Slot Canyon Hike → Reserve my spot

Things to do in La Jolla: Hiking – Torrey Pines – Golf – Birch Aquarium – Secret Swings

Amenities: Toilets – Showers

Parking: State Park Entrance Fee or Street Parking (paid)

Del Mar North Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Groups, Photo Shoots, Dog Beach

This small beach is simply gorgeous and one of my favorite dog beaches in the winter. Why in the winter? Because in the summer, dogs have to be on leash during the day, which kind of defeats the purpose of having a dog beach.

However, there are some beautiful rock formations and cliffs that make it a really pretty beach. We actually had our family photos taken there (see the pic above).

Be careful of rip currents on this beach. They are quite common there because of the inlet.

? Where to stay nearby:

Del Mar Beach Hotel -> Check dates now
L’Auberge Del Mar -> Book today

?️ Top Experiences nearby

• Carlsbad Food Tour → Check availability

Amenities: None

Parking: Street Parking (paid)

Shell Beach La Jolla

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Sunsets – wildlife lovers – ocean views

Shell Beach in La Jolla is one of the cutest little beaches in La Jolla. It is right in the heart of the city, so it is very small, but gorgeous. When the tide is out, you can explore the tide pools for crabs and critters.

This beach is not really for sunbathing or swimming, though, but perfect if you want to dip your toes in the sand or water as you are exploring the cute little beach town.

? Where to stay nearby:

La Valencia -> Check Dates
Pantai Inn -> Book Now

?️ Top Experiences in La Jolla

• Snorkel & Kayak tour → Check Dates
• Kayak sea cave tour → Book now

Things to do in La Jolla: Restaurants – Sunset – Sea Lions – La Jolla Cove – Galleries – Shopping – Kayaking – Snorkeling – Secret Swings

?️ Where to eat nearby: Best La Jolla Restaurants

Amenities: Showers – Toilets

Parking: Free (limited during peak season)

Ocean Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Groups, Families, Dog Beach, Surfers

I love how Ocean Beach has distinct sections for surfers, swimmers, and dogs. That way, you can enjoy the beach, but don’t get into each others way.

On the northern end of Ocean Beach, right by the parking lot, there is a huge dog beach. Our dog loves this beach and we love taking him here because it is so convenient. After the beach, we walk him over to the showers and rinse him off, then take him for a walk along the walk/bike path along the inlet until he is dried off.

Ocean Beach is the Hippie Beach town in San Diego. The vibe is really chill and relaxed, which makes it perfect for groups and families. Near the pier, you can catch some awesome waves if you are a surfer. In the center part of OB, you can swim and play in the water, or relax in the sand.

? Where to stay nearby:

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs -> Check Dates
Ocean Beach Hotel -> Book Now

?️ Top Experience in Ocean Beach

• Ocean Beach Walking tour → Check Dates

Parking: Free (limited during peak season)

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Boardwalk – Restaurants & Bars nearby – Pier

?️ La Jolla Cove

? Find on Google Maps

Best for: Snorkeling, wildlife, scenic views

La Jolla Cove is one of the most iconic beaches in San Diego — but it’s not your typical sandy beach. It’s small, often crowded, and better for exploring than lounging.

? If you’re coming here, it’s all about the experience — not relaxing on the sand.

? Why Visit La Jolla Cove

• Snorkel with sea lions and colorful fish
• Explore dramatic cliffs and sea caves
• One of the best photo spots in San Diego

⚠️ Good to Know

• Gets VERY crowded → go early morning
• Not ideal for laying out towels
• Strong smell from sea lions

?️ Best Experiences in La Jolla Cove

• ? Kayak Sea Cave Tour → Check availability
• ? Snorkeling Tour → See available times

? Best Hotels Near La Jolla Cove

• Pantai Inn (boutique ocean views) → Check prices for your dates
• La Valencia (luxury + walkable location) → View current deals

?️ Where to Eat Nearby

• George’s at the Cove (ocean views)
• Duke’s La Jolla (casual + great food)

? See more: Best La Jolla Restaurants

? More Things to Do in La Jolla

• See the famous sea lions
• Go kayaking in the sea caves
• Explore tide pools

? See full guide: Things to Do in La Jolla

Mission Bay

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Groups, Families, Parties, Water Sports

Mission Bay is perfect for families with small children. There are practically no waves, the water is shallow and warm. There are also plenty of shady areas on the grass to cool down during the heat of the day.

Best Hotels Near Mission Bay

Mission Bay has some beautiful beach resorts for pampered and romantic option as well as vacation rentals perfect for larger groups or families.

• Bahia Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐ → Check price
• Beachfront rental → View availability

?️ Top Experiences in Mission Bay:

San Diego Sunset Cruise from Mission Bay -> Check Availability
Snorkel San Diego’s Mission Bay with a Marine Biologist -> Book Now

Things to do in Mission Bay: Boardwalk – Volleyball Nets – Sea World – Belmont Park – Restaurants & Bars – Surfboard & Bike rentals – Pier

Mission Bay is also great if you are into water sports like standup paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing and don’t want high waves.

At night, the fire pits along the bay are very popular among locals and tourists alike. It is the perfect spot for a little get-together, enjoying a beach bonfire, and eating s’mores.

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Fire Pits – BBQ Pits

Parking: Free (limited during peak season)

Windansea Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Surfing, Photo Shoots

Windansea Beach is a little hidden gem on this list of the best beaches in San Diego. A mix of sand and rocky boulders, this beach is simply stunning. If you are into photography and want some stunning beach photos, head there, especially during sunset and golden hour.

The waves hit just right on this beach, so it makes it very popular with surfers.

? Where to stay in La Jolla:

Spanish Style Casa for up to 6 people -> Check Dates Now
The Shoal -> Reserve My Room Now

?️ Top Experiences in La Jolla

• Snorkel & Kayak tour → Check Dates
• Kayak Sea Cave tour → Book My Spot Now

Things to do in La Jolla: Beach – Photography – Sunset – Sea Lions – Surfing

?️ Where to eat nearby: Best La Jolla Restaurants

Amenities: Showers – Toilets (not nearby) – Palm Covered Hut

Parking: Street Parking (limited during peak season)

Solana Beach

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Families, Groups

Solana Beach is also not a San Diego beach, but we let it slide because it’s so nice. It is also very easy to get there from San Diego, either by car or even with the coaster. I love the beautiful sandstone cliffs in the background of Solana Beach and the view from up top.

Just one block up, you will find Solana’s many restaurants, bars, shops and cafés, if you choose to take a break from the sun and surf.

? Where to stay in Solana Beach:

Winners Circle -> Book Now
Cardiff by the Sea Lodge -> Check Availability

?️ Top Experiences in Solana Beach

• Beach Cruiser Bike Rental All Day Solana Beach → Reserve My Bike Now
• Encinitas Food Tour → Book now

Amenities: Showers – Toilets – Restaurants & Bars nearby

Parking: Street Parking (limited during peak season)

Black’s Beach San Diego

Find on Google Maps

Great for: Solo, Couples, Groups, Nudists, Surfers

Black’s Beach is the only nudist beach in San Diego. Yes, you read that right – Black’s Beach is clothing optional. You don’t HAVE to go naked, but you can. Whatever makes you feel comfortable. I have to admit, that I have only been on the very edge of Blacks Beach so far, ha.

Located just below the Hangglider port in Torry Pines, this beach is not easy to get to. The shortest way (but steep) is via the Gliderport trail. I highly recommend to wear some sturdy shoes, not just flip flops, on that trail. You can also walk from Torrey Pines State Park or La Jolla Shores, depending on the tide.

? Where to stay nearby:

The Lodge at Torrey Pines -> Check availability now
Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines -> Book now

These hotels are not located on the beach, but on the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course on a bluff overlooking the ocean.

?️ Top Experiences in La Jolla

• Kayak sea cave tour → Book My Spot now
• Slot Canyon Hike → Check availability

Amenities: None

Parking: Street Parking (limited during peak season)

Where to Stay in San Diego for Your San Diego Beach Getaway

? Quick Hotel Picks by Area

Solana Beach (Small Beach Town): Cardiff by the Sea Lodge -> Book My Escape
Pacific Beach (Young Crowd/Spring Break): Tower23 Hotel -> Reserve My Room Now
Ocean Beach (Budget/Hippie): The Inn at Sunset Cliffs -> Check My Dates

La Jolla

If I could just pick one San Diego Beach town, I would hands down recommend La Jolla. La Jolla has luxury accommodations, cute beach-cottage vacation rentals, fantastic restaurants, shopping, and galleries, and the beaches are top-notch. From the wide, sandy beaches in La Jolla Shores to surfers’ paradise at Windansea Beach, there is something for everyone.

La Jolla is also perfect if you like to do more than just lie on the beach. Enjoy a breathtaking hike down the cliffs of Torrey Pines, go kayaking in the sea caves, or snorkel with sea lions in La Jolla Cove. And the sunsets overlooking the Ocean from Shell Beach make for the best end of every beach day in La Jolla.

Mission Beach & Mission Bay

Mission Beach and Mission Bay are my top recommendations if you are traveling with kids. Mission Beach is perfect for older kids and teens, while Mission Bay is fantastic for families with young kids and toddlers. Belmont Park, a small amusement park right by the beach, is the perfect spot for some fun family time with arcades, games, rides, and cotton candy.

You are just minutes from Downtown and all the top attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway, Balboa Park, and the Maritime Museum. Sea World is also just around the corner.

Coronado

I always see Coronado as a SoCal version of the Hamptons. Beachy luxury that is classy yet laid back at the same time. You’ll find beautiful hotels, great restaurants, and a small-town feel, despite being right in the middle of San Diego.

You get the convenience of all the cool things a big city has to offer, but without the hustle and bustle. Explore San Diego attractions during the day and then head back to Coronado for some relaxing island time. Time really flows differently on Coronado. You’ll see when you get there.

Pacific Beach & Ocean Beach

If you are looking for a younger crowd, cheaper accommodations, fun beach bars, and a thriving nightlife, I highly recommend you stay in either Pacific Beach or Ocean Beach.

Pacific Beach is super popular among San Diego college kids, and you will find many bars, cheap restaurants, and a beach with a party atmosphere. Spring Break and Holidays like St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo, or the 4th of July can get pretty wild here.

Ocean Beach is known as the Hippie Beach, and you’ll find plenty of Van-lifers, tie-die enthusiasts, and, in general, a very chill crowd there. Definitely add a hike along Sunset Cliffs to your itinerary if you are staying here.

I hope you liked our little list of the best beaches in San Diego and found one to try on your next beach day. What is your favorite beach in San Diego?

Best Beaches in San Diego – Pin for Later:

The post 14 Best Beaches in San Diego (Local Guide + Map for 2026) appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Seaport Village is a little tourist spot in the heart of downtown along San Diego’s beautiful waterfront. You will find restaurants overlooking the water, shops selling souvenirs, and little knick-knacks, catch a concert at the Rady Shell, or you can go for a stroll around the Embarcadero. Yes, it is a bit cheesy, but it is one of my favorite touristy things to do in San Diego. I am there every day to walk my dog, hang out, eat, or grab a beer

Things to Do in Seaport Village

Shop for Souvenirs

There are dozens of cute little shops in Seaport Village and it is one of my favorite places to shop for gifts and souvenirs from San Diego. Some of my favorites are Windsong (wind chimes and decor), Sock Harbor (crazy socks), and San Diego Surf (clothing & decor).

Go To A Concert at the Rady Shell

The Rady Shell is the latest outdoor concert venue in San Diego and my favorite by far. My husband and I have seen multiple concerts there. Surrounded by water and the San Diego skyline as a backdrop, the atmosphere of this concert venue is simply fantastic. Even if you don’t have tickets, you can check the open rehearsal schedule and see the symphony practice – for free!

Check out our full review of the Rady Shell [with video] here>>

Visit the Headquarters

The historic Headquarters is technically part of Seaport Village, but since it is just on the other side of the parking lot, I will include it here. This used to be the old Police Station in San Diego, and now it is home to shops and restaurants.

Puesto is great for cocktails and fancy Mexican food, and then there’s a Cheesecake Factory and Eddy V’s for the chain restaurant lovers. If you like wine, check out the wine bar there called Grape Underground.

On the opposite side of the Puesto Entrance, there is a little hallway. Go in, and you can see some photos of what the Headquarters used to look like back when it was a Police station. You can take “Mug Shot” photos and even check out the cells they used for the prisoners.

Don’t miss Dorothy’s Wine Bar. They have a unique selection of wines, and the staff is so friendly. It is such a cool place! They also often have live music on Sunday afternoons, and it is one of my favorite spots to chill for a few hours with Greg or our friends, drinking wine, and enjoying life.

Historic Carousel

Not just kids love the historic carousel in Seaport Village. The 54 animals and 2 horse-drawn carriages were hand-carved in 1895 in Brooklyn, NY. The Carousel has delighted kids in Dallas, Santa Monica, Spanaway, and Portland before calling Seaport Village home since 2004.

Explore the USS Midway

The USS Midway is one of the top tourist attractions in San Diego and is located on the Northern end of Seaport Village. The Aircraft carrier is a museum now and does an excellent job showcasing what life was like on the ship during its years of service. There are also many volunteers; many of them have served on the Midway or other Aircraft carriers and love to share their stories. Read our full guide on the USS Midway Museum here>>

Take Photos of the Kissing Statue

Based on the famous photo of a sailor kissing a nurse to celebrate the end of World War II, you can find a 25 ft tall Kissing Statue in the park next to the USS Midway. This makes for a cool photo opp, especially at night.

Visit Santa

Some people wish the Holiday Season never ends. If you are one of these Christmas Fanatics (or simply want to buy a Christmas Ornament to remember your trip to San Diego), check out Santa’s Workshop in Seaport Village.

If you come during December, you can take photos with Santa, or join the Surfin’ Santa event.

Take the Ferry to Coronado

Most people think they can only get to Coronado via the iconic Coronado Bridge. But the most direct route from downtown is to take the ferry. The Seaport Village ferry stop is on the South Embarcadero, just behind the convention center, next to Joe’s Crab Shack. The little boat takes you over to Coronado Ferry Landing in about 10 minutes. Check out our guide on the San Diego Coronado Ferry here>>

Fly a Kite

The Embarcadero is the perfect spot to fly a kite. A strong breeze usually comes from the bay, making it pretty easy to keep your kite in the air. If you didn’t bring a kite, you can buy one in Seaport Village at Kite Flite.

Enjoy the Embarcadero

The Embarcadero Marina Park is one of my favorite Parks in San Diego. On the North Embarcadero, there are grassy areas, walking paths (no bikes allowed), and covered picnic tables that are perfect for a relaxing day. When you get to the southern tip, you have a beautiful view over the Marina, downtown, the Rady Shell, Coronado Bridge, and on a clear day, see all the way to Mexico.

On the South Embarcadero, you can visit the Shell, shoot some hoops, and do a little Fitness Circuit to spice up your workout routine.

I love going for walks here and it is one of my favorite places in San Diego to watch the sunset.

Watersports on the Bay

The San Diego Bay is perfect for all kinds of watersports. You can go sailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.

Due to its protected nature, the water on the bay is relatively calm, so perfect for beginners. However, you need to watch for other boats and get out of the way fast if they are coming your way. Also, keep your distance from the Navy shipyards on the Coronado side, as the Navy doesn’t want civilians too close to their boats and equipment.

Go to the Fish Market on Saturdays

Up until the 1960s, Tuna fishing and canning was the third-largest industry in San Diego. Not much is left of the once-thriving fishing industry, but one of the remnants is the weekly fish market on the pier in Seaport Village every Saturday morning.

I love watching the sea lions play next to the boats, hoping to be thrown some leftovers. If you are lucky, the booth that sells fish sandwiches is there. Don’t miss that. They are fresh and delicious.

Best Restaurants in Seaport Village

Seaport Village is home to many restaurants in every price range, cuisines, and different vibes. Many of the restaurants have fantastic views over San Diego Bay, and it is a great spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a nice meal.

Malibu Farms

It finally opened! This modern American eatery has been a long-awaited addition to the Seaport Village restaurant roster. They are currently open from 9 AM to 3 PM and offer brunch, small plates and mains, and a fun cocktail menu. This is a great place if you have vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters in your group. They have plenty of tasty-sounding options for everyone.

We tried their brunch and had the Surfer’s Rancheros and the Tofu Scramble. Both were really delicious. Also their hot sauces are fantastic. We tried the mango-habanero and the apple-serrano ones and both were fruity and spicy. Quite a unique flavor and if you like a bit of spice, definitely ask for some.

Sally’s Fish House & Bar

Currently under construction, will reopen Spring 2025

This upscale fish restaurant with a view over the Marina has a modern cool vibe, beautiful decor, and does fish right. Inspired by SoCal Baja cuisine, the fish is fresh and delicious, artfully presented, and simply a joy to eat. Perfect for a dinner date before walking over to the Shell for a concert.

Spill the Beans

One of my favorite coffee shops in San Diego. Nothing beats enjoying a cuppa while people-watching or catching up with a friend. Their bagels are really good too!!!

Louisiana Charlies

I lived in Louisiana for a year in High School, and Louisiana Charlies does a decent job of satisfying my Cajun cravings. My husband Greg also really likes their BBQ. It is definitely the best-smelling restaurant in Seaport Village, and I am tempted to go in every time I walk by.

Zytoun

If you have a hankering for Mediterranean food, Zytoun is great, and their portions are huge. I especially love their Borak and the Chicken Shawarma, and their salads are really good as well.

It is located right on the walking path along the bay, so you can’t miss it.

Crack Tacos

Fancy tacos that really hit the spot. We have a lot of bougie taco places downtown that charge an arm and a leg for pseudo-creative tacos. Crack Tacos is on the expensive side as well (average for downtown), but definitely worth it. They use quality meats, homemade tortillas and guac, and you can’t beat the view over the marina.

Their specialty is Crack Taco, which uses Cardiff Crack Tri Tip. OMG, this stuff is addictive! Cardiff Crack has been my favorite steak for a while, but on a taco, it is mindblowing! Yum! I also really like their shrimp taco and the

Mr. Moto Pizza

Sometimes, all you want is a quick slice of delicious pie and some beer. And Mr. Moto does that just right. Grab a slice and walk over to the Embarcadero for a little impromptu picnic and watch the world go by.

Mr. Moto is known for their white pies, where the foundation is some garlicky paste of deliciousness. And since you are already stinky anyways, might as well add the garlic knots to your order. Yum!

San Diego Burger Company

I have to admit, I have not been here yet. But it’s on my list

Marion’s Fish Market

If you are into fried fish, look no further, Marion’s Fish Market is your spot. I personally prefer grilled fish and seafood, so I haven’t been here either.

Tuk Tuk Eatery

Maybe not the most authentic Asian restaurant in town, but I like Tuk Tuk for a quick bite or lighter lunch, compared to the other options. They have bao buns, make-your-own bowls with rice, veggies, and protein, and a few noodle dishes.

Mike Hess Brew Pub

Tacos and Beer paired with a beautiful view – what else do you need? They are very busy during sunset time, so come early! They also just opened a second location in Seaport Village next to Spill the Beans. For the best view, go through the back and up the stairs to access the upstairs seating area! The sunset views are so beautiful!

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

While there are several stores selling candy and fudge and other sweets, nothing feels better than indulging in a big bowl of ice cream on a hot summer day by the water, right? And with all the crazy flavors Ben & Jerry’s has to offer, everyone will find their favorite.

Shorebird

If you are looking for some stunning views over San Diego bay AND delicious food, Shorebird is the place to go. Built on stilts over the water, you get the best view. I really like their menu, as they have something for everyone, from Burgers to Sushi and local fish. It is a bit pricy, so Greg and I like to come here for date night or when we have friends coming to town for a special night out.

Seaport Village Parking

There are plenty of parking options near Seaport Village. The Seaport Village Parking Lot charges $8/hour.

Important!!! If you buy something for $10, you can validate your ticket and get 3 hours (Monday – Thursday) and 2 hours (Friday – Sunday) for $5. If you need more time, it is 3$ for 30 min after that.

Across the street from the Headquarters, as well as on the South Embarcadero, you can find many metered spots as well.

Seaport Village has something for everyone. If you are in Downtown San Diego and are looking for something family friendly and low key to do, then head over to Seaport Village

Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post Seaport Village San Diego: 20+ Things To Do (Local Guide) appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Hurricane Otis Hits Acapulco

On October 25, 2023 at 1:25 AM Hurricane Otis changed Acapulco forever. What started as a minor Category 1 Hurricane 21 hours before quickly intensified into a Category 5 Hurricane and left locals without any time to prepare. One weather station measured peak sustained winds of 113.64 mph (182.88 km/h) with a gust reaching 204.90 mph (329.76 km/h), the 7th-highest wind speed ever recorded worldwide.

The destruction was devastating. 52 people lost their lives. Half a million people were without power for days, some for weeks. 80% of all hotels (377) and 95% of businesses were destroyed. The estimated total damage was $ 12-16 billion, making it not only the strongest but also the costliest hurricane to ever hit Mexico.

6 Months After Otis

Tianguis Turistico — Mexico’s largest tourism trade fair — alternates each year between Acapulco and a rotating Mexican city. I’ve attended the last three years: Acapulco in 2024, Rosarito in 2025, and Acapulco again in 2026. Watching the same event unfold in the same city, two years apart, gave me a front-row seat to just how much has changed.

In 2024, I visited Acapulco just 6 months after Hurricane Otis hit. To be honest, it was a gutwrenching experience. Half the city looked like a war zone. Most of the hotels still looked like skeletons. And here I was, swimming in my private pool at the beautiful mid-century-modern Las Brisas Hotel overlooking Acapulco. It was one of the first hotels to reopen to tourists, just 58 days after the hurricane. It felt wrong being there. Here I was in this luxurious property that welcomed guests like Sylvester Stallone and Neil Armstrong before, and below me, Acapulco lay in ruins.

And despite the devastation, the locals still living in shelters or in the hotels they were rebuilding, bringing back tourists as quickly as possible was and is the only way forward for Acapulco. And so they did what they had to do. They put down their heads and got to work!

2.5 Years After Otis

What Acapulco has accomplished in the past 2 years is nothing short of amazing. With 17,000 rooms currently available, Acapulco has rebuilt about 86% of its pre-Otis room capacity, and the restaurants, businesses, and shops are thriving.

People have come together in this crisis and built back better than it was before. I have goosebumps thinking about how far this city has come in this short time, and I simply love this place. The people are so friendly and welcoming, the scenery is fantastic. The food is mouthwatering.

Is Acapulco Safe?

To be honest, I have mainly traveled to Acapulco as a visitor to the Tianguis Tourism Conference, and we did all our excursions in organized groups, so I cannot offer any personal experience exploring Acapulco on my own. For up-to-date travel safety advisories, please check with the US State Department.

However, as we walked through the old town and along the Malecon of Acapulco, all the locals and tourists around me seemed genuinely relaxed and at ease. As a frequent female solo traveler, I pay attention to my surroundings and the “vibe” of the area that I am in, and I would not have had an issue walking around and exploring the touristy areas of Acapulco by myself.

I would exercise general safety precautions, such as not wearing any flashy jewelry, paying attention to your surroundings, using safe transportation, and getting first-hand info from locals before exploring in Acapulco. I would NOT advise leaving the tourist areas, especially at night.

5 Reasons why Acapulco is Worth Visiting after Hurricane Otis

1. The People Are Amazing

I have nothing but admiration for the resilience and work ethic of the people of Acapulco. They went through some really tough times, and now they welcome us with a warmth and a smile that just hits differently than in other places.

2. The Hotels Are Brand New

To be honest, Acapulco before Otis was already past its glamour days of the 1950s and 60s. Now, the hotels, shops, and restaurants are all brand new and with modern standards, while many pay homage to the style and glam of the golden days.

Las Brisas Acapulco

My favorite hotel is Las Brisas Acapulco. It is located on the hills overlooking Acapulco Bay, and each “room” is actually a villa with its own backyard and pool. It is striking. I did not want to leave!

Hotel Amares Acapulco

This time, I stayed at the Hotel Amares Acapulco, right on the beach. The views from my balcony were breathtaking, and I could hear the waves crashing at night. I loved just walking out on the beach and enjoying the water. The main “tourist street” with many restaurants and shops was right there too, which made it very convenient to get around.

Secret Tip: There is a small mini golf area on the 3rd floor, a spacious fitness studio, and a second pool that is a lot less crowded than the main pool.

Fiesta Americana Acapulco Villas

I also got the chance to visit the Fiesta Americana Acapulco Villas, another stunning property right on the beach. I loved their patio overlooking the rocky cliffs. It made the beach feel small, but private and secluded. The hotel had a nice and modern vibe, and their breakfast buffet was delicious.

3. The Prices Are Reasonable

Acapulco is still a relatively up-and-coming destination that is currently in its “rediscovery” phase. Take advantage of the lower prices and good value that you can still get here, before it turns into the next Puerto Vallarta or Tulum.

The average price for a 4* Hotel in Acapulco is about ~150/night in the off-season, about half what you would pay in Puerto Vallarta and Tulum. Pair that with a domestic flight from Tijuana after using CrossBorderXpress, and you can have a 1-week beach vacation starting at ~$1200-1500. Using CBX to hop into Tijuana Airport for a domestic flight costs a fraction of flying internationally from San Diego.

4. It’s Not Overly Americanized

Don’t get me wrong, I am not against American tourists. I am one of them. I just want to share how it affects the vibe of a destination when it becomes popular among Americans.

Most people vacationing in Acapulco at the moment are tourists from Mexico or Americans with Mexican roots. It is not overflowing with American tourists yet, which gives it a bit more of an authentic vibe while still having all the amenities of a fully developed beach destination.

When I walked through Acapulco, I rarely heard English; most shop owners or street vendors only spoke a few words of English, and we stumbled our way through the transaction with a mish-mash of Spanglish.

5. So Many Cool Things To Do

Acapulco has some fun things to do, but it isn’t so overwhelming that you feel FOMO when you just want to chill on the beach for a few days. The old town and city center, with the cathedral and Alvarez plaza, are fun to explore, especially at night, with all the street vendors.

If you are a history buff, don’t miss Fort San Diego. I loved the architecture and learning about the history of the trade routes to the Philippines that originated from Acapulco.

A nice, lush getaway is the Botanical Garden of Acapulco. We got to meet the volunteers who helped re-plant the gardens after Otis, and it was great to see their hard work pay off and make such a beautiful space.

One of the most special moments of my time in Acapulco was during my trip to Barra de Coyuca. This is a stunning natural habitat about 45 minutes from Acapulco, where you have a marsh and river system on one side and a white sandy beach and the Pacific on the other side. Spectacular!

We did a boat tour through the marsh, sipped some refreshing coconut water, and then headed to the beach to release baby turtles into the ocean. They were so adorable. Unfortunately, they only have about a 25% survival chance, even with our help (or so we were told).

Acapulco is still a diamond in the rough. Go now, before everyone else figures it out.

Last Updated on May 12, 2026 by Maria Haase

The post Is Acapulco Worth Visiting After The Hurricane? appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

Ana Borja, Mary Ann Calderon, Meme Borja, Maureen Miras, Bernadette De Leon

May 28, 2023 - Boracay Island. Philippines

The first time I set foot on Boracay’s powdery white sands, I was with my family—and like most first-time visitors, we were wide-eyed and eager, chasing sunsets, snapping photos at every turn, and squeezing every “must-do” into our stay.

I remember how everything felt new and exciting—the colors, the flavors, the energy of the island. We were tourists, no doubt about it, running on adrenaline and a shared sense of discovery.

Fast forward to our second time around, and something had changed. Not the island—though some parts have, in good ways—but us. This time, Boracay wasn’t about rushing. It was about returning.

Meme Borja, Ana Borja, Bernadette De Leon, Maureen Miras, Mary Ann Calderon

Familiarity Feels Good

From the moment we landed, there was this comforting sense of déjà vu. We already knew what to expect, which spots were worth going back to, and how to avoid the crowded areas. That sense of familiarity made the trip feel easier, smoother, and more relaxed.

No more Googling where to eat or asking around for directions. We knew where to find the freshest seafood, where to buy souvenirs without overpaying, and how to time our beach walks to catch the best light.

But more than just being “easier,” the second time allowed us to experience Boracay more deeply.

Mary Ann Calderon, Ana Borja, Maureen Miras, Bernadette De Leon

Slow Days, Stronger Bonds

Instead of trying to fit everything in, we let each day unfold naturally. Some mornings, we just stayed on the veranda sipping coffee, watching the island slowly come alive. Other times, we strolled down White Beach without a destination in mind, talking, laughing, or just enjoying the silence together.

It wasn’t about ticking off a checklist anymore—it was about enjoying being together, in a place that already held shared memories.

There’s something special about watching the same sunset with the same people—only now, we’re all a little older, a little wiser, and maybe a little more grateful.

The Island, Revisited

Of course, we still did the “fun stuff.” We revisited Puka Beach, went island hopping again, and indulged in mango shakes and beachside barbecues. But this time, we also explored quieter corners—less popular spots that we didn’t get to see the first time.

We chatted with locals more, learned bits of their stories, and appreciated the post-rehabilitation improvements to the island. Boracay felt cleaner, more sustainable, and still as breathtaking as we remembered.

Bernadette De Leon, Ana Borja, Mary Ann Calderon, Meme Borja, Maureen Miras

Why the Second Time Meant More

What surprised me the most was how emotional I felt on this trip—not because of the scenery, but because of the shared history we now had with this place.

There’s something powerful about returning to a destination as the same group. You realize how much has changed between visits—not just on the island, but within yourselves. And yet, some things remain blissfully the same: the sound of the waves, the laughter around the dinner table, the feeling of sand between your toes.

Conclusion: The Gift of Returning

Going back to Boracay with my family wasn’t just a vacation—it was a reminder. A reminder of how far we’ve come together. Of how travel isn’t always about new places, but about seeing familiar places with new eyes.

The first time was unforgettable.
But the second time?
It was irreplaceable.

By: Meme Borja

Photo courtesy of TAYTAY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE via Facebook

January 28, 2025 Taytay, Rizal, Philippines

On January 28, 2025, the Municipality of Taytay came alive with beauty, culture, and celebration as it hosted the much-awaited Binibining Taytay 2025 pageant—held in joyful conjunction with the Chinese New Year festivities.

Organized by Series Group Productions in partnership with the Municipal Government of Taytay, the event was a spectacular display of grace, intelligence, and community spirit.

Photo courtesy of TAYTAY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE via Facebook

Thirteen exceptional candidates competed for the prestigious crown, each representing the modern Taytayñan woman—confident, compassionate, and capable. The night sparkled with excitement as the ladies impressed the audience not just with their beauty, but with their talent and eloquence during the Q&A segment.

Photo courtesy of TAYTAY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE via Facebook

Veronica Louisane Yasoña

The coveted title of Binibining Taytay 2025 was awarded to Veronica Louisane Yasoña, whose charm, poise, and articulate answers earned admiration from judges and spectators alike. Warmest congratulations also go to all the candidates, who exemplified sisterhood, strength, and heart throughout the competition.

Photo courtesy of TAYTAY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE via Facebook

A distinguished panel of judges added prestige to the evening, including Noubikko, whose discerning eye and industry expertise contributed to the fairness and integrity of the results.

Photo courtesy of TAYTAY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE via Facebook

Mayor Allan De Leon, Veronica Louisane Yasoña and Vice Mayor JV Cabitac

Adding even more color and joy to the evening was the Chinese New Year celebration, led by Mayor Allan de Leon and Team Smile Taytay. The blending of Taytay’s local traditions with the global festivity of Lunar New Year was a meaningful reminder of the town’s diversity, inclusivity, and unity.

Taytay continues to shine through events that uplift the spirit and celebrate its culture and people.

Photo courtesy of TAYTAY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE via Facebook

Let’s keep smiling, Taytay!

SmileTaytay
#BinibiningTaytay2025
#ChineseNewYearCelebration
#SerbisyongMayNgiti

By: Meme Borja

February 10, 2023 — Cebu, Philippines

If you're looking for a trip full of laughs, adrenaline, epic eats, and tropical views straight out of a postcard — look no further. This Cebu City and Bantayan Island getaway is the kind of adventure that brings family and friends closer, fills your camera roll fast, and leaves you saying, “When are we coming back?”

City Sights, Street Food & Surprises

We kicked off the trip in the lively heart of Cebu City — and wow, what a ride! First stop: Magellan’s Cross, where we all made wishes and took group selfies under the famous wooden dome. Just around the corner is the Santo Niño Basilica, where history meets faith in the most colorful way. Even if you’re not into churches, the energy and architecture here are amazing.

Then we stormed the gates of Fort San Pedro like explorers — climbing its old stone steps, peeking through cannons, and imagining pirate attacks (yes, even the adults joined in). Next up, we climbed to the Taoist Temple, where dragons guard the entrance and the view over the city is unbeatable. It felt like we were in a real-life movie set!

But nothing brought us together like food. At Larsian BBQ, we gathered around the grill stations, picked our skewers, and watched them sizzle to perfection. Grilled pork, chicken, squid, Cebu chorizo, and that famous hanging rice (puso) — it was a feast fit for kings (and hungry travelers!).

Island Escape Mode: ON

Then the real adventure began. We loaded up the van, hit the road, and caught a ferry to the stunning Bantayan Island — and let me tell you, the moment we saw that turquoise water and powder-white sand, we knew we found paradise.

First thing we did? Jump in the ocean, of course. Then we rented bikes and cruised through Santa Fe, waving at locals, stopping for mango shakes, and chasing golden-hour sunsets along the shore. No traffic, no stress — just beach vibes and island laughs.

One of the most exciting parts of the trip? Island hopping! We hopped on a boat with our crew, music blasting, and headed to Virgin Island. We snorkeled in crystal-clear water, spotted colorful fish, played beach volleyball, and had a seafood lunch grilled right on the sand. The place was so beautiful, it felt unreal.

Back on Bantayan, we took a side trip to Ogtong Cave, a hidden underground pool where we took a refreshing dip and screamed (in a good way!) when we jumped into the cool, clear water. For a chill break, we explored the old Bantayan Church, where time seemed to slow down — a nice moment of quiet after all the fun.

Unforgettable Moments, Nonstop Fun

This trip wasn’t just a vacation — it was a wild, laughter-filled adventure with people we love. From city explorations to island thrills, every moment was packed with something new: culture, food, beaches, bikes, boats, and memories we’ll never forget.

If you’re ready for a tropical getaway that’s exciting, energizing, and 100% unforgettable, Cebu and Bantayan Island are calling. Just pack your bags, grab your favorite people, and let the adventure begin!

By: Meme Borja

October 28, 2022 - El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters, sunny skies, good company, and zero stress, El Nido, Palawan is the place to be. It’s the kind of destination that invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and just enjoy the moment — especially when shared with your favorite people.

And the best part? You don’t have to choose between adventure and relaxation. With a combination of Tour A and a laid-back land tour, you get the perfect balance of both.

Tour A: Island Hopping at Its Chillest

Tour A is one of the most-loved island hopping tours in El Nido — and for good reason. You’ll spend the day cruising through calm waters, visiting dreamy lagoons, and stopping by white-sand beaches that feel like your own private paradise.

Expect:

• Gentle kayak rides in clear blue lagoons

• Snorkeling with tropical fish (or just floating on your back and staring at the sky)

• Beach lounging, coconut sipping, and a few laughs along the way

• The kind of views that make you pause and just say, “Wow.”

It’s the perfect day trip — no rush, no pressure. Just sun, sea, and simple joys with your favorite people.

Land Tour: Road Trip Vibes and Sunset Stops

When you’re ready to stay dry and explore the mainland, a land tour is the way to go. You’ll hop into a van, tricycle, or motorbike and cruise through El Nido’s scenic roads, stopping wherever the mood takes you.

What to expect:

• Long, quiet beaches perfect for slow strolls and hammock naps

• A bit of nature exploring — maybe a short trek to a hidden waterfall or viewpoint

• Beach cafés, fresh fruit stands, and cool little spots for spontaneous photos

• A golden hour that’s just chef’s kiss

It’s the kind of day where there’s no set schedule — just go with the flow, enjoy the breeze, and take in the natural beauty around you.

Why It’s Better with Family & Friends

El Nido is great on your own, sure — but it’s even better when you’re with people you love. Whether it’s a chill beach hangout with the fam or a spontaneous sing-along with your barkada on a boat, the best memories are the ones you make together.

• Kids can safely enjoy the water and the sand

• Adults can kick back, relax, and disconnect from the daily grind

• Friends can catch up, joke around, and share the kind of moments that last forever

It’s all about enjoying each other’s company in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Little Tips for the Chillest El Nido Experience

• Pack light, wear comfy clothes, and don’t forget your sunnies and sunscreen

• Bring a speaker for mellow music during road trips or boat rides

• Keep a reusable water bottle and snacks on hand — especially for the kids

• Book a private or semi-private tour if you want extra space to relax

• Don’t over-schedule — leave room for spontaneous fun and unplanned detours

Let the Island Do Its Magic

Sometimes the best vacations aren’t packed with activities — they’re the ones where you laugh a lot, swim a little, eat well, and just be. That’s exactly what El Nido gives you: space to unwind, reconnect, and enjoy life at a slower pace.

So if you're looking for that perfect mix of calm, connection, and quiet adventure — Tour A and a relaxed land tour are the ultimate combo.

Go ahead. Breathe in the salty air. Feel the sun on your skin. Let the island take care of the rest.

By: Meme Borja

May 7, 2022 - Panglao Island, Bohol, Philippines

You know that feeling when you're counting down the days to a trip, and then suddenly—bam!—you’re there, standing on white sand, staring at a sea so blue it looks unreal? That was Panglao Island, Bohol for us.

It wasn’t just a vacation. It was a wild, sun-drenched adventure with the best crew imaginable—our family and closest friends. And let me tell you, it was the kind of trip that makes you wish you could freeze time.

Day 1: Paradise Unlocked

The moment we landed in Bohol, the adventure mode kicked in. Our group was buzzing with energy—backpacks slung, GoPros ready, and everyone hyped like kids on Christmas morning. As our van rolled into Panglao, the view alone was enough to drop jaws. Palm trees swayed in the breeze, and the ocean sparkled like a dream.

We checked into a stunning beachfront resort at Alona Beach, where the sand was soft as flour and the vibe was total island chill. First order of business? Slippers off, cold drinks in hand, and feet in the water before sunset. Pure bliss.

Day 2: Island Hopping Madness

We were up before sunrise for one of the most epic days of the trip: island hopping! With the wind in our hair and music blasting from our boat’s speakers, we cruised across the open sea. Dolphins even made a surprise appearance, dancing in the waves beside us—it felt like something out of a movie!

Balicasag Island blew our minds. Snorkeling there was like diving into a live aquarium. We swam with sea turtles (yes, actual sea turtles!), schools of neon fish, and corals that looked like underwater gardens.

Next stop: Virgin Island, with its jaw-dropping sandbar stretching out into the sea. We snapped selfies, flew drones, and feasted on sea urchins and fresh scallops from the local vendors. It was salty, messy, and ridiculously fun.

Day 3: From Hills to River Thrills

We took a break from beach life to explore Bohol’s famous inland gems. First up, the iconic Chocolate Hills—hundreds of giant, Hershey’s Kiss-shaped mounds that looked like they’d been plopped down by giants. We climbed up the viewing deck, and the view? Unbelievable.

Then it was off to meet the cutest locals ever at the Tarsier Sanctuary. Those tiny, wide-eyed primates had us all saying “awww” every five seconds.

Lunch was a full-on feast on a floating restaurant along the Loboc River. As the boat drifted down the emerald waters, we devoured grilled seafood, lechon, and sticky rice while a live band played OPM classics. One of our titas even got up to sing—and killed it!

Nights to Remember

Every night in Panglao was a party in its own way. Bonfires by the beach, star-gazing on the sand, late-night chats over cocktails, and of course—karaoke battles that turned into sing-along dance-offs. The kids chased sand crabs while the rest of us danced barefoot under the stars.

We laughed until our stomachs hurt, played games, shared stories, and reminded ourselves how lucky we were to be together in this little slice of paradise.

Memories Made, Hearts Full

As our last day rolled in, no one wanted to leave. There were hugs, promises of “we have to do this again,” and one too many group photos. But we didn’t just take home souvenirs—we brought back something better: memories that stitched us all closer together.

Panglao gave us the perfect backdrop for something rare and beautiful: real connection in a world that moves too fast.

One thing’s for sure—we’ll be back. And next time, we’re bringing even more people.

By: Meme Borja

March 30, 2022 - Boracay Island, Philippines

If I had to sum up our Boracay trip in three words, it would be: Sun. Shenanigans. Survival.

When you throw together a full fam squad plus your chaotic circle of friends, things are bound to get wild. And in Boracay? Multiply that by ten. This wasn’t just a beach trip—it was a full-blown comedy, drama, and reality show rolled into one, set against a backdrop of white sand and salty air.

Day 1: Sand, Sunburns & Snacking Nonstop

The trip began the second we landed. There was yelling over missing chargers, chaotic room assignments ("Why do they get the beach view?!"), and at least three arguments over who forgot the snacks. But the moment we stepped onto White Beach, it all melted away.

We sprinted to the shore like kids let out of school. Some were jumping into the sea, others were already lining up their “candid” photos (which took, like, 27 takes). The sand was pure powder, the water was crystal clear, and the vibe? Immaculate.

Dinner was at a beachside grill where we inhaled seafood like we hadn’t eaten in days. Someone accidentally ordered way too much squid. We didn’t complain.

Day 2: Boats, Bloopers & Busted Speakers

Island hopping = the highlight of the trip. And chaos? Oh, it came with us.

We loaded into a boat that barely fit us all and headed for magic: cliff diving, snorkeling, hidden coves—and a playlist that only worked half the time because someone brought a speaker with 12% battery.

One friend got stung by a jellyfish (nothing serious—just enough drama for a group selfie), and my little brother got “accidentally” pushed into the water mid-photo. The splash was iconic.

By the time we reached the last island, half of us were sunburned, the other half were napping, and everyone was happy. Genuinely happy.

Day 3: Chill Mode (Kind Of)

We tried to keep it low-key for our last day. Paddleboarding, fresh coconut juice, and the occasional beach nap. But with this crew? “Chill” only lasts so long.

Cue the spontaneous beach volleyball tournament, an epic sandcastle competition (judged unfairly, if you ask me), and a karaoke showdown that turned into a full-on concert on the sand. The sun went down, but the energy didn’t. We ended the night with barbecue, beer, and stories we’d all deny in the morning.

Final Thoughts (a.k.a. Sentimental Stuff We Don’t Say Out Loud)

Leaving Boracay felt weird. Like, none of us wanted to admit how much we actually needed this—no stress, no work, no deadlines. Just laughs, salt in our hair, and memories we’ll be bringing up at every reunion for the next decade.

It wasn’t just a vacation. It was a core memory unlocked—with the people who know how to drive you crazy but love you anyway.

Boracay gave us sun, sand, and the kind of laughter that sticks to your skin like saltwater. And honestly? I’d do it all again tomorrow.

By: Meme Borja