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September Activities in San Diego

Tuesday, August 9th, 2011

September is the best month to be in San Diego. The summertime crowds have diminished, baseball and football are in season, weather and water are warm, and there are tons of fun things to do. From catching a ball game to catching a flick, San Diegans are never bored during the month of September. There is a long list of street fairs, several big concerts, home games at the ball park, and waves in the water, so it doesn’t matter if you are visiting the area or live here now; you will have a great time this September.

  1. Sports: Every September baseball season starts to heat up and football season takes off, making San Diego one of the most exciting places to be. Great weather means you can enjoy going down to the big game whether it is for the Padres, Chargers, Aztecs or any of your other favorites. There is nothing quite like watching a ball game down at Petco Park on a Friday night with the rest of San Diego, which is why it is a locals’ favorite thing to do.
  2. Beach Going: All San Diegans know September is the best month for beach going. Surfing, kayaking, sunbathing, snorkeling, or whatever you like to do at the beach, is more fun in September. Kids are back in school which means a lot of the heavy tourist traffic has left the area and locals reclaim the beaches. If you happen to visit San Diego in September, you will get the best of our beaches with great weather, warm water, and fewer crowds compared to midsummer.
  3. Concerts: Just because summer is over in most of the U.S. doesn’t mean we San Diegans think it is. Our summer concert series all run into September because the perfect weather keeps the outdoor venues hosting great artists. This September has a great lineup including Bassnectar, Steve Earle, Marc Anthony, Carlos Santana, Ben Harper, Thievery Corporation, The Kills, and much more. The Belly Up Tavern, Casbah, and House of Blues are the hot spots for listening to great music and having a drink.
  4. Adams Avenue Street Fair: Concerts have already been mentioned but the Adams Avenue Street Fair deserves a spot on this list all by itself. With over 60 musical acts across six stages, every music taste will be satisfied. The best part about the fair is that it is free, so take the entire family.
  5. Julian Fall Apple Harvest: Mid September through October is a great time to head into the mountains where the famous apple pies are created. September is when the apples are being picked, peeled, and baked into delicious apple pies. There are fun events planned daily and plenty of pie to go around.
  6. Del Mar Horse Races: The horse races run into the beginning of September and closing day is almost as fun as opening day. A favorite activity for all the locals, the horse races “where the surf meets the turf” are fun for everyone and you might even win a little money betting on your lucky horse. Just watching all the stylish and goofy hats walking around is half the fun but the really good deals are 4 o’clock Fridays where as long as you make it into the track before the last race starts you can see a concert for free.
  7. Miramar Air Show: The end of September has one of the brilliant spectacles where the best pilots from around the U.S. come to show off their skills. The famous blue angels team does wild maneuvers that will keep you on the edge of your seat and wanting more. Take the kids and some ear plugs because it can get a little loud when the jets break the sound barrier.
  8. San Diego Film Festival: Another event at the end of September is the San Diego Film Festival where you can watch movie premieres, mingle with celebrities, and even see your friend’s indie flick make it to the big leagues. It is a fun five days with plenty of events to keep you busy and interested. The film premieres are always followed up by parties that have a reputation for being some of the best in San Diego.

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Organizing a Family Reunion? Make San Diego the Destination!

Tuesday, July 19th, 2011

Organizing a family reunion can be a challenge. After all, each member of your family is a unique composite of interests, lifestyles, preferences, and generations.  You must find a destination that has ample space, predictable weather, and entertainment for all. If you’re looking to pull off a reunion that will be talked about for years to come, make San Diego a family affair.

As one of the top vacation destinations in the country, there’s no shortage of fun activities for visitors of this southern California paradise.  With its beaches, mountains, deserts, and palm tree-lined streets, there is an exciting atmosphere for everyone. With dozens of distinctive neighborhoods to explore, the possibilities are limitless.

Beaches

Mission Beach

The best places to stay in San Diego are those that are steps away from entertainment. Group rates at beachside accommodations can cater to any age group, and Mission Beach is the perfect area to seek out fun in every direction. Family members can lie on the beach, stroll the boardwalk, or head to the Belmont Park beachside amusement park to take a ride on the Giant Dipper rollercoaster.

Those interested in trying their hand at water sports can take a surf lesson at the Surfari Surf School or simply hop across the boardwalk to rent a paddleboard and get a workout in the bay.

Pacific Beach

The boardwalk that starts in Mission Beach runs all the way up to “PB” where your group can grab a bite to eat at one of the many beachside restaurants and pubs. Pick up picnic fare at the Pita Pit or grab the kids (and adults) a cool treat at Yogurtland. Hop a couple blocks east and amble through a long line of eclectic shops with everything from high-class dresses to tiki bar trinkets.

Pacific Beach also has some of the best vacation rentals in the city. With breathtaking views and ample patios, patrons can sidle up to a grill or spill out onto the boardwalk and into the sand.

Coronado Beach

Coronado Island is one of the secret gems of the city. With gold-flecked beaches and the Hotel Del Coronado (A National Historic Landmark), Coronado is a spectacular oasis with a village-like feel.

La Jolla Cove

Grab the gang and head up to La Jolla cove where the group can take the steep trek down into the La Jolla Cave, visit shops, rent a kayak and paddle along the coast, or watch jovial seals take over the sand.

Ocean Beach

You’ll find the most laid-back souls of San Diego in the Ocean Beach neighborhood. Walk the pier and watch as surfers duck-dive through the waves below you, or roam around Newport avenue, which hosts many small local shops with beachcomber wares. Drop the kids off at Claytime for ceramics painting, and sample the food at South Beach Bar & Grille for the best fish taco in San Diego (and arguably even the world).

Parks and Attractions

If you’re looking to catch some local attractions, take a day and get the whole family together to explore the life of the ocean up-close and personal at Sea World, trek the expansive San Diego Zoo where the panda bears and the elephant exhibit are big winners, or zip line over the wild animals at the Safari Park.

If you’re looking for something even more exciting, you’re also close enough to take the short trip up to Disneyland, Legoland, and Knott’s Berry Farm.

With its South American charm, Old Town is another favorite place to let a large group run amok and find a little souvenir from their experience.  Another popular destination, Torrey Pines State Reserve hosts a web of trails through one of the wildest stretches of land on our Southern California coast. Those looking for a steeper challenge can face Cowles Mountain for a thigh-burning trek up to a beautiful view of the city.

Parks

A family reunion isn’t complete without a day at the park. Luckily enough, San Diego has parks covered…expansively. Choose from a long list of gorgeous parks to set your reunion up for success. Some of the most popular include:

  • Scripps Park – La Jolla hosts one of the most amazing parks in San Diego. Right on the coast, Scripps Park offers views of the ocean, and plenty of sun and shade for large gatherings.
  • Kate O. Sessions Park – A great bet for large parties, this 79-acre park offers beautiful views of San Diego and plenty of space for activities such as barbecuing, picnics, and kite-flying.
  • Balboa Park – Situated in the heart of the city, Balboa park is an amazing expanse of activities. Surrounded by the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park has lush gardens, a multitude of museums, a science center, and many hiking trails for trekking around amongst eucalyptus trees above and San Diego squirrels below.
  • NTC Park – This park is one of the biggest oceanfront parks in San Diego. A great gathering place for families, it includes two ball fields, basketball courts, two picnic areas, playgrounds, and more to give you everything you need for a perfect daytime gathering.

For a reunion organizer in need, there’s nothing that San Diego cannot deliver. With sun, sand, and parks, the city offers each individual a wide variety of options at prices ranging from upper echelon services to the free entertainment of the nature surrounding. Those looking to make waves in their family’s history books will not be disappointed.

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August Events in San Diego

Saturday, July 16th, 2011

In the later months of the summer when “June gloom” has burned off, the temperatures have settled into their seasonal warmth and the sun is a welcome participant in every day’s activities, San Diego can feel like the greatest tropical paradise on Earth. Summer in San Diego brings people from all over the country ready to partake in the sand and the surf. From nightlife that abounds with open-air establishments to the bustling daytime Mission Beach boardwalk and countless beaches, there is a long list of activities fit for every California-goer.

August is an especially rich month for San Diego activities, with something for everyone from sports fanatics to theater buffs.

Film and Music

Through August 28th, Screen on the Green takes a free film series to the outdoors on Thursday nights at 8 p.m. in beautiful Balboa Park. Bring some snacks and a lawn chair and take in a flick while you soak up the natural surroundings.

The La Jolla Music Society presents the nationally-recognized Summerfest, with over 70 world-class artists and ensembles. Or take in a concert at Humphreys by the Bay. August artists and comedians include the Moody Blues, Lauryn Hill, B.B. King, Colbie Callait, Billy Idol, Cheech and Chong, and Carlos Mencia.

Food

For foodies, the Old Town Grape Stomp is an August 30th gem. Pick up this first annual festivity at the Plaza del Pasado in the Old Town State Historic Park and savor some wine, food, and grapes, paired with live entertainment. If you enjoy a finely crafted brew, catch Beer-Con, the craft beer conference at the Handelry Hotel on August 27 at 730 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Or round up some local produce and farm-fed fare almost any day of the week at one of the many farmers’ markets that run through the August evenings:

Dancing

If shaking your tail feather is more your style, grab a dance class and give it all you’ve got, swing your hips at the Monday Night Swing class at the U-31 cocktail lounge, or shake the salsa at 6:30 in a Dance Motions Studios dance class. Or if you want to try out something less common, learn to clog at 6:45 p.m. on August 1st at the Balboa Park Recital Hall.

Local Experience

If you want breathe in some of the local history, take a 75-minute historic walking tour of the breathtaking Hotel del Coronado on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.

On August 10th, 23rd and 31st, snorkel with leopard sharks and smooth hound sharks at La Jolla Shores. Hosted by the Birch Aquarium, this outing is a fun way to connect with the local wildlife.

Take a stroll through the monthly desert garden tour hosted by Offshoot Tours and see eclectic trees, cacti, and succulents that grow in the warmth of the San Diego habitat.

Sports

If you’re a sports fanatic, don’t miss some tennis action at the Mercury Insurance Open Carlsbad beginning August 1st, or bet on the ponies when The Turf Meets the Surf as the Del Mar horse racing season gets underway. If baseball is more up your alley, catch the San Diego Padres in action at Petco Park. Also, don’t forget about Southern California’s perpetual playground and hang ten in some of the country’s best surf spots. Test drive a paddleboard on Mission Bay or boogie board to your heart’s content all along the coast.

Looking to watch the action? Head to La Jolla Cove August 7th and see the largest rough-water swimming competition in the U.S., or be entertained by the Polo Club’s Fernando Gutierrez Memorial Cup on the 14th (and catch the finals on the 21st).

No matter what you fancy for fun, August has events specially matched for everyone. From natural water parks to local foods and festivals, every month in San Diego is ripe with special events, guaranteed to make your time in America’s Finest City second to none.

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Catch the Action at the Del Mar Racetrack this Summer!

Thursday, June 30th, 2011

Horse racing is a longstanding tradition in America. Its roots run deep, and at one point, horse racing was second only to major league baseball.

The Del Mar Racetrack has been party to the history of the sport as well as its fluctuating trends and changes over the years. The racetrack is part of the Del Mar Fairgrounds, just twenty miles north of San Diego proper.

Let’s take a brief look at the history of this notable landmark as well as some of its upcoming events this summer.

A Brief History

The Del Mar Racetrack was built as a joint venture between Bing Crosby and several other close actors, musicians, and personalities of the time. The idea was to have a place where people could play all day, party all night, and forget all the worries of the world.

When the track opened in 1937, Bing Crosby himself stood at the gate to personally greet fans and horse racing enthusiasts. The Del Mar Racetrack was the first to make use of the photo-finish camera, which has now become a staple of just about every racetrack in the world.

The racetrack gained much popularity in Hollywood and the surrounding Del Mar area, drawing large crowds every race.

In 1938, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club hosted a $25,000 match race between the American handicap champion Seabiscuit and the South American challenger Ligaroti. The race was widely publicized and talked about, becoming the first nationwide broadcast of a Thoroughbred race on NBC radio. The historic race drew 20,000 fans, cementing its popularity and success.

By 1940, the Del Mar Racetrack was a summer playground for Hollywood’s finest. In 1946, The Santa Fe Railroad built a train from Los Angeles to Del Mar, allowing all the Hollywood stars and late-running horses an easy way to travel to and from the racetrack. The train was where the festivities began. Often, if the train was late, the entire race was delayed.

Del Mar Today

Del Mar Racetrack has not lost any steam over the years, still hosting some of the nation’s best horses and horsemen to record crowds each summer.

The track opens every mid-July, starting the 37-day summer racing season.

Although traditions evolve, change, or expire over the years, the track still has the longstanding tradition of wearing a hat on opening day and holds its annual One and Only Truly Fabulous Hats Contest that same day.

Summer and Upcoming Events

Aside from the annual hat day, the draw of the Del Mar Racetrack is, of course, the horse races. The track holds races every Wednesday through Sunday and is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, with a few exceptions.

The number of races wavers between 7 and 9 with the exception of opening day when the track holds 10 races, along with the feature handicap and stakes races. To keep up with the schedule, it’s best to check the Del Mar Racetrack calendar on their website.

The Del Mar Racetrack is also known to hold numerous events and promotions aside from the horse races. This includes:

  • Family Fun Days
  • Daily seminars for newcomers and handicappers
  • Chili cook-offs and salsa contests

A fairly new event is the Del Mar Summer Concert Series. Beginning in 1994, Del Mar played host to free concerts every Friday evening. Del Mar became a live music venue for some of the greatest musical acts in history. In 2001, singer/songwriter Jack Johnson put the Del Mar Racetrack on the musical map. The concert series continues this year, so remember to find your way to the Seaside Stage each Friday.

The Del Mar Beer Fest will give you a chance to sample over 60 different flavors of brews from some of your favorite breweries, including

  • Ballast
  • Coronado
  • Firestone
  • Full Sail
  • Left Coast
  • Green Flash
  • New Belgium
  • Lagunitas
  • Palm
  • Pyramid

Despite the passage of time, the Del Mar Racetrack has held up amazingly and is still home to thrilling races and roaring crowds, and the idea for a horse palace by the ocean where guests could play all day, party all night, and enjoy the fruits of life

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Best Music Venues in San Diego

Thursday, June 30th, 2011

As a burgeoning city with deep roots, San Diego is a very popular place to live and visit featuring a wide expanse of diverse backgrounds. It is no wonder that it plays host to so many bands from all over the world, attracting talent from all genres.

The fair city of San Diego is home to dozens of music venues. Some are famous and have quite a long history, while others are new and reflect changing trends. Regardless, many of these music venues provide a quality experience for all concert goers.

Here are some of the best music venues in San Diego.

Epicentre

By day, the Epicentre is a youth center that provides services to teenagers from all walks of life. Epicentre offers a computer lab, pool tables, ping pong tables, and a large dance floor as well as classes in music production, song writing, and other subjects.

The Epicentre, located oddly in suburban Mira Mesa, becomes a great music venue for by night featuring local San Diego bands and underground artists from all over the country. Boasting a maximum capacity of 525 and some of the best audio equipment, the Epicentre may be one of the best places to see that indie act you’ve always been a fan of.

Lestat’s West

Lestat’s West originally started as a musical side for Lestat’s Coffee House but has grown as its own entity, hosting all sorts of music acts, from national touring artists to talented locals.

Located in Normal Heights, the venue is known for its intimate, artist-friendly atmosphere and the best sound production that most any live venue has to offer. You can owe the great sound to the Lestat’s West experienced sound engineer, adding support to the venue’s motto: “Where the Artist, the Music, and the Sound Matter.”

The House of Blues

Although it is one of the newer clubs in the downtown San Diego area, the House of Blues attracts hundreds of national touring artists.

The House of Blues in San Diego opened in 2005 and has since become the premier venue for live music, hosting of the best musical acts in the world as well as its own unique productions and events. The venue also includes a full bar and a restaurant, giving you dinner and a show all under one roof.

SOMA

SOMA can be found in downtown San Diego, right next to the sports arena. Its name derives from its own location “South of Market”. Though it was originally known as a dance club when it was established in 1986, SOMA quickly transitioned to a live music venue.

SOMA’s claims to be one of the best all ages venues in the Southern California area and has a strict alcohol-free policy, creating a safe live music environment.

The former dance club has hosted a wide variety of musical acts, from young local bands looking for a break to national touring acts.

The Casbah

Located near downtown San Diego, this nightclub and music venue has hosted some of the most famous bands and artists in the world.

The Casbah first opened in 1989 and hosted some great bands of old, including Nirvana and The Smashing Pumpkins. Unfortunately, the nightclub’s first location could only hold 75 people at any one time.

In 1994, the Casbah moved just down the road to a larger location with a capacity of over 200 individuals. This second location features an enclosed smoking patio, a full bar, and a back room with pool tables, pinball machines, and a Galaga arcade machine.

The Belly Up Tavern

The Belly Up Tavern, which can be found in Solana Beach, is internationally acclaimed and historically known for bringing some of the greatest live music to the San Diego area. Belly Up Tavern has been voted “San Diego’s Best Live Music Venue” on multiple occasions by local publications and even named as one of the best clubs on the West coast by Rolling Stone Magazine.

The Belly Up features an amazing sound system in a large, open space, perfect for raucous crowds. Two full bars and an attached restaurant offer a complete night out for those who prefer a soundtrack with their dining.  Coupled with some of the best line-ups that the music world has to offer, the Belly Up Tavern promises one of the best live music experiences in the city.

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From Trestles to South Bay: A Guide to San Diego Surf Breaks

Thursday, June 30th, 2011

With summer upon us, nothing would be better than a visit to the beach to enjoy the sun and the surf. Cooling off in the ocean is a common, popular form of summer fun in Southern California, especially San Diego.  If you are staying in Pacific Beach or Mission Beach, don’t be afraid to venture further south or north to find more of San Diego’s famous surf lineups.

San Diego has a deep-rooted surf culture that spreads all through the county, up and down the coast. Let’s take a look at some of the best surf breaks in and around the San Diego area.

Trestles

Trestles is a world famous, river-mouth point break located right on the county line between Orange County and San Diego, attracting professionals, amateurs, and first time surfers all at once.

The area is broken up into many different breaks, most notably Upper Trestles, Middle Trestles, and Lower Trestles (more commonly referred to as just “Lowers”) with Lower Trestles consistently having the best waves. An ASP World Tour surfing competition is held at the Lower Trestles on an annual basis, the only ASP tour stop held on the North American continent.

Be prepared to walk a ways to get to Trestles, with the parking lots being 15 minutes from the break or more.  Even after your hike to the lineup, Trestles is often busy 7 days a week. With 60+ surfers in the lineup to catch a wave, avoiding collisions with others often becomes part of the ride.

Despite all the difficulties presented in making it out to Trestles, the area is famous because it continually provides some of the best swells with consistent long rides.

Del Mar

Del Mar has become one of the most reliable surf spots in San Diego. Featuring great exposure to all swell directions, Del Mar is popular all year round. The crowd can spread from the river mouth to Torrey Pines State Beach, giving you the chance to find your own wave without worrying about crashing into other surfers.

The best breaks tend to be in South Del Mar, from 15th Street to 29th Street.

Swami’s

Swami’s in Encinitas is known internationally and has a well-defined peak with a crowd beyond capacity. The break is named after an Indian-style Self Realization Fellowship complex on the bluff.

Swami’s has a bend in the coast, helping it pick up extra swell energy. This means bigger, better waves than its neighboring breaks. Of course, this also means larger crowds, but it’s worth it for the great waves.

La Jolla Shores

La Jolla Shores is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego, in part because of its proximity to UC San Diego. The beach is often crowded with college students and locals. A line divides the surfing section and the swimming section, ensuring that surfers do not crash into unaware waders.

The beach also has year-round lifeguard services, facilities, and fairly good parking.

The waves here are generally fairly gentle and safe, making it a prime spot for beginners and seasoned veterans alike. Most surf schools operate here, so those who would like to learn to surf should definitely start here.

Black’s Beach

Black’s Beach, in another part of La Jolla, is one of the best surf spots in California and arguably has the best waves in San Diego. Consistent and great all year round, Black’s Beach features breaks in long, organized lines.

The walk to Black’s Beach is a bit of a hike, though you can arrive either by stairs or by a trail from the neighborhood. Black’s Beach is also a nudist beach, so try not to be too surprised when you arrive.

Paddling out takes a bit of extra work and effort, but it pays off. The waves here are huge, well into the 10-12 foot range. Unlike La Jolla Shores, Black’s Beach is definitely for experienced surfers.

The South Bay

The best place to surf in Coronado is Outlet, a shore break by the North Island Naval Air Base. Outlet faces south and picks up the hurricane swells from Baja in the summer.

Aside from Outlet, Coronado and the rest of the coast all the way south to Imperial Beach are filled with numerous sloping beach breaks with fun, forgiving surf. However, the offshore sand bars at the mouth of the Tijuana River are completely unsurfable.

If you are looking for a surfing destination this summer, we recommend booking a San Diego vacation rental where you will find the best spot to surf and enjoy the break!

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Summertime Activities in San Diego

Saturday, April 30th, 2011

Summer is just around the corner. The locals are ready to work on their tans and visitors are coming to steal a piece of the infamous San Diego sunshine. The season only comes once per year and you don’t want to watch it pass you by without capitalizing on all of the fun and exciting things to do during a summer in San Diego. Some people love to be a beach bum while others set a goal to hit every wilderness trail in the county. No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in sunny San Diego.

  1. Beach barbecue – While lounging in the sand and frolicking in the waves is fun, take it to the next level of fun by bringing down a mini Weber barbecue and grilling up some burgers and hot dogs. Just bring the bare essentials and make an entire day out of beach bumming. Don’t forget to lather up with sunscreen and bring an umbrella because more than a couple hours under the hot sun will do some major skin damage. Invite all of your friends to meet you at your favorite spot and you are sure to have one of the cheapest and best days of your summer.
  2. Sunset chasing – There is something magical about every single San Diego sunset and posting up at different spots in the area will always yield just a slightly different sunset. Ask your friends where their favorite sunset spot is and spend the summer chasing all of San Diego’s best sunsets. Bring a camera, snacks, and even a little vino if you are lucky enough to have a date in tow.
  3. Shop at farmer’s markets – Purchasing locally produced food is great for the environment and community, but it gets a whole lot better when you step outside into 72 and sunny weather and are ready to have an awesome day. Go get your produce in some of San Diego’s wonderful outdoor farmer’s markets to mingle with locals and enjoy the sunshine simultaneously.
  4. Go on several hikes – Pick a day of the week that you will consistently go try a new hike on. You wouldn’t believe how many unique trails and natural areas are in San Diego County. Start early to skip hiking in the heat and you will still have the rest of the day for more fun activities in the sun. A few hot spots include Torrey Pines, Mt. Laguna, Batiquitos Lagoon, Iron Mountain, and Palomar Mountain.
  5. Grunion run – Something not every tourist is acquainted with are the locally famous summer grunion runs. Time it right and while you and friends are having a bonfire on the beach you can also participate in the grunion run phenomenon. From March through September, you can ask around to find out the specific nights the grunion are expected to wash ashore and lay their eggs. As one wave rolls in, the grunion come with it and lay their eggs, then another wave comes up and takes them all back to the ocean. This is why it is called a “run,” because you need to be quick if you plan on catching several of the small silvery fish with your bare hands.
  6. Over-the-line tournament – The only party on the beach that still allows alcohol is the world famous OTL tournament. Hundreds of teams (with vulgar team names) participate in a small scale game of softball while hundreds of thousands of people watch from the sidelines and participate in the festivities. This is a can’t-miss summer event.
  7. Balboa Park – One of San Diego’s greatest resources is Balboa Park. It is perfect in the summer because you can stroll through the park in warm weather and enjoy music, food, and museums. Visit on Tuesdays for free entry to several of the museums. This is a great place to mingle with both locals and visitors.
  8. Del Mar horse races – Every San Diegan looks forward to Opening Day of the Del Mar horse races and the ensuing month-long party. The beautiful town of Del Mar hosts several high stakes horse races and offers locals a great venue for soaking up the sun, beers, and betting on races (legally).
  9. Free summer concert series – There are several free summer concert series all over San Diego that showcase great local talent and well known bands. The most popular series happens to be the 4 O’clock Fridays at the Del Mar races. There is always a big name band performing on a small outdoor stage free for all the race attendees that day.
  10. Outdoor sports – It doesn’t matter what sport you are interested in, you are guaranteed to find a community group playing or meeting somewhere on a weekly basis. Football, softball, Frisbee, running, biking, surfing, soccer, volleyball, you name it, San Diego has it. Keep your body in peak summer shape and stay tan by participating in an outdoor summer sport where you can also meet some other great locals.

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Off the Beaten Path in San Diego

Friday, April 29th, 2011

Off the Beaten Path in San Diego

The greater San Diego area has a population of over 1.3 million residents and receives more than 30 million visitors annually. People love to visit San Diego and then never want to leave. Luckily, there are an endless number of things to do in San Diego, especially if you know where to look. While the famous attractions like Sea World, San Diego Zoo, Wild Animal Park, Legoland, and the gorgeous beaches are all well known and have a lot to offer, they are all typical destinations for visitors. If you want to get away from the crowds and see what really makes San Diego a unique city, head off the beaten path.

1.       Temecula Wine Tasting: San Diego is not yet world famous for their wines, but they are the fastest growing wine region in the U.S. Gather some friends and make it a day trip out to the Temecula wineries where you can pick one favorite and spend all day there or hop from place to place. Bring a designated driver or hire one of the tour busses in the area. You’re bound to find a new favorite wine.

2.       Unique Hikes: San Diego isn’t just an urban city; there are plenty of natural preserves, rivers, parks, and even mountains nearby. Blue sky ecological preserve, Cedar Falls, Iron Mountain, and Palomar Mountain state park are just a few of the local’s favorite hiking spots.

3.       Old Town: Although it is a well known town that gets a lot of tourists, it still shows a lot of San Diego’s history and beats all the other areas for best Mexican food restaurants. Visit El Agave for the largest selection of tequila in all of San Diego (and probably California). For some good shopping, check out the Bazaar Del Mundo.

4.       Julian Apple Pie: If you have a car or are renting one, it will be worth your time to make the trip into the mountains to the small town of Julian. They are world famous for their apple pies. When you visit, stop by Mom’s for a taste of the freshest and best apple pies around. There are plenty of unique stores and restaurants to keep you busy all day.

5.       San Diego Gliderport: Some people like a little adventure and this is the best place to get it in San Diego. The Gliderport in Torrey Pines is a great place to experience Hang Gliding or Paragliding; especially since you are flying high above the beaches and Pacific Ocean. The views are amazing and you will get that adrenaline rush you are craving. You don’t have to try the sports, watching from the sidelines is a lot of fun too. http://flytorrey.com/cms/

6.       The Topiary Gardens: If you enjoyed the Edward Scissor Hands movie, you will love Harper’s Topiary Gardens. Edna Harper turned her lush backyard into an outdoor museum of sculptures. She has carved more than 50 creatures out of the gardens including a dinosaur, elephants, surfer, and even Buddha. The most surprising thing about the gardens is that they are located downtown near the airport. http://sandiego.about.com/od/thingstodo/a/topiary_garden.htm

7.       Cinema Under the Stars: Located in the back of Doug Yeagley’s Tops hair salon in Mission Hills, the Cinema Under the Stars is a perfect way to spend an evening during the warmer months in San Diego. If you are looking for a good addition to a romantic date night, this is a must stop. This isn’t like your typical drive-in theater; it is a classy venue with comfortable seats, service, and classic films like Casablanca. http://www.topspresents.com/

8.       ARCO Olympic Training Center: Not many tourists have heard about the Olympic training center in San Diego and it is a little out of the way, but the 20-30 minute drive is worth the unique experience. Located down south in Chula Vista, the center is for prospective Olympic athletes of almost every sport; even bobsledding. There is housing on site for the athletes but the center is also a good resource for local athletes looking to make it to the next level. There is a good visitor center and a lot of ways you can enjoy watching the training. http://www.teamusa.org/about-usoc/u-s-olympic-training-center-chula-vista

9.       Unique bars: If there is one industry that is booming in San Diego, it is craft beer. Instead of trying to stop in all 45 different breweries around the county, just visit the best and most unique beer bars in town. The Blind Lady Ale House and Toronado are two local favorites; though busy, they are absolutely worth the wait. They offer some of the world’s best beers on draft, so plan on spending the entire evening tasting a few brews.

10.   Kate Sessions Park: Last but not least is San Diego’s favorite park. Kate Sessions sits atop a hill that overlooks Mission Bay and downtown San Diego. You can see for miles on a clear day. The park always has active groups playing sports, friends and families having barbecues, and kids’ birthday parties. The sunsets are especially amazing from Kate Sessions.

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Tips To Avoid a Bad Sunburn

Monday, April 4th, 2011

San Diego is known for its mild climate and year-round sunshine, making it a great place to spend time outdoors and catch some rays. But its southern latitude combined with the high number of sunny days greatly increases the danger of sunburn, skin cancer, and sun disease in comparison to places further north. While the best protection from the sun is to stay out of it, people don’t visit San Diego to stay inside. More likely, you’re headed to San Diego to play on the beach and enjoy warm outdoor temperatures, regardless of the time of year. Following are some tips for avoiding bad sunburn, or even a mild one, on your trip to San Diego.

  1. Wear Sunscreen. While this one may seem overtly obvious, the importance of wearing sunscreen can’t be stressed enough, even if you think you’re only going to be outside for a short period of time. Sunscreen with a minimum SPF 15 or higher should be applied to all parts of your body that will see the sun 30 minutes prior to exposure, and it should be reapplied every two hours. If you’ll be swimming, be sure to choose a waterproof sunscreen and reapply it every time you get out of the water.

    2. On your face and shoulders, it’s advisable to wear a higher SPF that’s face-specific, even if your makeup or morning moisturizer already contains sunscreen. A higher SPF is also advisable for younger children, whose skin hasn’t had as much sun exposure and less resistance. Babies under six months shouldn’t wear sunscreen at all, so you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of light-colored, long-sleeved clothing and a protective shade device in addition to the one built into your stroller or carrier. Babies over six months should wear a baby-specific sunscreen, which with an SPF of 45 or more.

  2. Wear protective clothing. Even if you’re liberally applying sunscreen, it’s always a good idea to give your skin a break with some lightweight, light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants, especially if you have a full day of outdoor activities planned. Clothing with built-in UV protection can be purchased at many outdoor clothing stores. Choose moisture-wicking synthetic materials over cotton in order to help you stay cool and dry. It’s a good idea to wear a hat at all times when outdoors to protect your face, neck, and shoulders. Large-brimmed sun hats make a good choice for the ladies, while men may be better suited to a cowboy-style hat. Sunglasses are another essential item in San Diego, which help protect your eyes from both immediate and long-term UV damage.
  3. Take a break from the sun. If you’re spending long days at the beach or anywhere outside, take a break between 11am and 2pm when the sun’s rays are most intense and damaging. Find a cool spot indoors to eat lunch and take an afternoon siesta immediately afterward to give everyone an hour or so to digest. The midday hours can also be a good time to go grocery shopping, mall shopping, or catch a movie.
  4. Alternate days in the sun with days indoors. Spending several days in a row outside is far more damaging to your skin, so plan your vacation in advance to include days with both indoor and outdoor activities that alternate every other day. In addition to its beaches, San Diego is also known for its plethora of museums, which can provide a wonderful day-long haven from the sun.
  5. Bring some shade with you to the beach. Don’t forget that sand and water reflect light off the ground and back onto your body, giving you a double dose of sunshine at the beach. While beaches sometimes provide large umbrellas and other shade devices, you may have to get there early to stake your claim. Bringing shade with you will ensure that you and your family have a place to nap and relax away from the glaring rays. Options include anything from portable large shade umbrellas to shade tents. If you’re out walking around in the sun all day, it’s not a bad idea to carry an umbrella or parasol with you to shade you from the sun no matter where you find yourself.
  6. Pre-tan before your vacation. Getting some sun exposure and a light tan before you leave home will help protect your skin from long days of rays on your vacation. Tanning beds provide an even tan in a short period of time, and if your skin hasn’t seen the light of day in awhile, artificial tanning for only ten to fifteen minutes just a few times can be enough to do the trick. You can wear protective lotion with a low (2-4) SPF to block harmful rays and still get a little color. Self-tanning lotion will also give you a base tan that helps protect your skin from the sun, but be sure to apply it evenly and wash your hands immediately.
  7. Don’t be fooled by sea level, cloudy days, or winter sun. While sun is more intense at higher altitudes than at sea level, the lower latitude of San Diego is enough to compensate for the difference, especially in winter when the sun is lower in latitude, lower in the sky, and closer to the earth. Likewise, don’t go without sunscreen on cloudy days, as your skin can still burn through the clouds, and the weather may change at a moment’s notice.
  8. Beware of medications. If you’re taking any medications, even over the counter ones, you may want to discuss the risk of your meds and sun exposure with your doctor or pharmacists and do some research online. Many medications can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and increase your risk of sunburn, even for several days after you stop taking them. Common culprits include certain types of antibiotics, acne medications, oral contraceptives, as well as ibuprofen.

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Top 3 Annual San Diego Events

Thursday, March 31st, 2011

America’s Finest City is not just a hot spot for surfers and scantily-clad sunbathers; it also hosts some of the nation’s most popular events that bring in people from all over the world. San Diegans love to celebrate music, movies, food, and even comic books, among other things. The top three annual events may be different in each person’s eyes depending on what interests them, but there are several that stand out as the most popular every single year. For the top three, we chose events where both the locals and visitors have a great time. From dressing up in star wars costumes at the San Diego Comic Con to wagering the last of your savings and wearing ridiculous hats at the Del Mar Races, San Diego knows how to put on a great show.

Top 3 Annual Events in San Diego

  • San Diego Comic-Con International: Comic professionals and fans have been filling the San Diego Convention Center to its max every year since its beginning in 1970. The event had over 130,000 in attendance in 2010 and all of downtown was packed with additional visitors just coming to look on at the spectacle. Everyone gets in their best comic outfit and heads down to the world’s fourth largest comic convention where they hope to rub shoulders with famous artists, actors and characters throughout the day. Visitors can catch a glimpse of upcoming feature films, get autographs from comic professionals and actors, stop by workshops and seminars, and all meet up for one crazy night at the Masquerade. The event usually takes place every July but the past few years have sold out far in advance. Plan on buying tickets a year in advance and if you don’t get them in time you can still head downtown for some great sightseeing with Klingons roaming the streets.
  • Del Mar Racing Season: The famous summer race track down in Del Mar draws horse racing fans from all around the world. The summer series runs for 37 days starting in mid July and consistently sees crowds of 40,000 or more. “Where the turf meets the surf” is the slogan for a race track that was started by Bing Crosby in 1937 and has a history of hosting famous horses from Seabiscuit in 1938 to Zenyatta in 2010. Opening Day is a local favorite where everyone gets dolled up and sports their best hats, bringing back the style from the race tracks’ heyday. Locals, visitors, and celebrities all show up to watch the world’s finest thoroughbreds race for top dollar stakes. Unlike Comic Con, you don’t need to buy tickets in advance and you can even catch popular concerts for free if you attend the 4 O’clock Fridays shows down at Del Mar.
  • Farmers Insurance Open: What most people still think of as the great Buick Open has a new sponsor but the same great golf that has brought people to San Diego for years. The “West Coast Swing” of the PGA Tour takes place on the Torrey Pines Golf Course in the beautiful beach town of La Jolla. Bubba Watson won in early 2011 and took home over one million dollars but the entire last decade was ruled by Tiger Woods himself, winning a total of six tournaments and setting several course records. Although the tournament takes place every January, San Diego is well known for beautiful weather year round which makes for a perfect weekend of golf.

Annual Events – Honorable Mentions

  • Street Scene: One of the largest music festival in the United States and historically located downtown San Diego had a rough two years and it is still undecided if it will be back. If it is, Street Scene would easily make its way up to our top three events in San Diego. The festival takes place downtown with several stages over a three-day period and hosts some of the most popular bands alongside incredible underground musicians. Stay tuned this summer to see if it makes its comeback because it is truly a San Diego event everyone must experience.
  • San Diego Rock n’ Roll Marathon: If running, or walking for a very long time, is your thing, don’t miss the unique marathon winding through downtown with live music set up at every mile marker during the race. It is like street scene stretched out over 26.2 miles. The Rock n’ Roll marathon comes every summer and is a great place for starters to test out their legs while rocking out to music.
  • San Diego Wine and Food Festival: All of your favorite restaurants, chefs, and wineries join up for a delicious event showcasing the best of San Diego and California. With VIP tastings, exclusive after parties, and a chef competition, you will be in for a fun filled weekend downtown. The event is held every November and brings people in from all over the world to taste what San Diego has to offer.

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