Curator’s statement
I’ve been lucky enough to call San Diego home for the last six years and have been able to perfect the ideal beach weekend. These are the spots that constantly impress first-time visitors and have them coming back again and again. This avoids the super touristy activities and focuses more on places and activities that people who know San Diego really enjoy.
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Things to do in San Diego
Powerhouse Park in Del Mar
Rent e-bikes: Start in Carlsbad and cruise down the coast to Del Mar. Make a stop in downtown Encinitas for lunch.
Oceanside Sunset Market: Held on Thursdays from 5 to 9 p.m., this is a huge market with hundreds of vendors and so many different types of foods. Walk to the Oceanside pier for beautiful beach views during sunset.
Beach day at Moonlight beach: A classic Encinitas experience. The beach is super family friendly and has bathrooms and a snack bar. It's also walking distance to downtown Encinitas to grab food before or after. Cali Cream is a must-try for ice cream nearby!
Torrey Pines Gliderport: Take a hike down to the beach or enjoy the views of the beach and hang-gliders from the restaurant.
Leucadia Farmers Market: For a locals' food experience. Open Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm, it’s located on an elementary school campus so has a playground, lots of tables, garden, and chickens that kids love! Try Just Bananas or Mango on the Moon.
Del Mar Beach at Powerhouse Park: Another classic San Diego beach experience. Has an expansive grassy area if you don’t want to get sandy but still enjoy beach views. It also has a newly renovated playground that is a hit with the kids, and is walking distance to downtown Del Mar for restaurants and shops.
Annie’s Canyon Trail in Solana Beach: A unique trail that has a narrow slot canyon section. Very family friendly.
Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma: The most magical sunsets! Get there early as parking can be a challenge, but it's totally worth it.
Places to eat & drink in San Diego
Wolf in the Woods
The Taco Stand (a few locations): Inspired by Tijuana tacos, this is the place that made me love tacos. Tacos are about $4 each. I usually get three. Try the Baja and camarón (shrimp) tacos.
Atelier Manna: Brunch in Encinitas that may be the most delicious. This came recommended to us by the conceige at Alila Marea and wow! You can stop there as you bike along the coast. Get the Turkish eggs. They also serve non-alcoholic cocktails for a fun twist.
Vaga Bar at Alila Marea in Encinitas: Perfect date-night spot. Great views, cocktails, food, and overall vibe.
Kai Ola Sushi: My favorite sushi spot. Small space. Delicious fish. Sit at the bar to watch how it’s all prepared. So fun and the guys there are super nice.
Fresheria in La Jolla: Casual place with a variety of fresh foods. We go there for the yummy, large $10 ceviche portions.
Jeune et Jolie in Carlsbad: For a special occasion, this Michelin-starred restaurant has a four-course French tasting menu for $120 per person. The experience is great.
The Crack Shack (a few locations): Go for a very easy casual experience for the whole family. The atmosphere keeps the kids entertained so adults can hang out. Serves delicious jidori chicken in many forms.
Wolf in the Woods: In a lovely small neighborhood near the airport and downtown. I almost don’t want to give this one away because it’s small, it’s intimate, and it needs reservations, but it is so, so good. It's a blend of New Mexican, Hispanic, and Californian cuisine with great wine. Must-try: the corn soup.
Need to know
San Diego has something for everyone—couples, families, solo travelers. It is the best of outdoors and sunshine. From relaxed beach days to hiking trails to coastal bike rides, you can make it what you want. Food is easy to come by and there are some great casual options.
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Irene Ribe
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our San Diego page.