Rediscover San Diego, your sunny playground boasting beautiful beaches and bays, as well as recreational inland adventures. On the coast, enjoy picturesque seaside views and thrilling attractions, plus sensational new shops, restaurants, brewpubs and taprooms. Also explore our cultural crown jewel, Balboa Park, a stunning scenic locale, with a dazzling array of museums, peaceful gardens and a magnificent zoo. Need an inland or rural escape? Reconnect with family and friends in vibrant downtown settings, at charming hilltop wineries, or take a weekend to go camping or hiking in our backcountry. As always, know that businesses and venues are still making every effort to make sure your local experience is safe, happy and memorable.
Coastal San Diego Dive right into sand-and-sea fun with a trip to the beach or a scenic boat ride capped off by a stunning San Diego sunset. For sweeping views across the ocean and city, drive up to Point Loma and the Cabrillo National Monument. A stately monument honors Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, who landed at San Diego Bay in 1542, becoming the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States. The park is known not only for its picture-postcard vistas, but also for hiking, and for its tidepools, containing delicate marine life.
Across the bay, explore the quaint seaside city of Coronado, with gorgeous white sand, San Diego skyline views, a lively downtown and fine dining and shopping. Browse the beautiful boutiques at Coronado Ferry Landing and on the main thoroughfare Orange Avenue, where Birkenstock of San Diego sells its stylish footwear. Need an easy way to see the sights? Tour the island on a bicycle or surrey with Wheel Fun Rentals located on the boardwalk at the landmark Hotel del Coronado. Also visit Coronado via car or ferry with Flagship Cruises & Events. Not to be missed is an exploration of Liberty Station, a 361-acre waterfront urban village in Point Loma. The transformed naval base-to-neighborhood is a center for commerce and history, sporting restaurants, breweries, art galleries and attractive shops.
Northwest of downtown, visit the hip, seaside community of Ocean Beach, boasting a half-mile-long pier, oceanfront boardwalk, annual street fair and chili cook-off, year-round farmers market, shopping and a dog beach! For an introduction to “OB,” as locals call it, stroll into the Ocean Beach Main-Street Association on Bacon Street. Welcoming staffers can recommend restaurants, shops, events, lodging, real estate companies and much more. Need some retail therapy? Snag great deals at Humble Heart, a friendly thrift shop on Newport Avenue carrying everything from brand-name clothing to antique furniture, to handmade gifts and cool curios. A stroll down the street, enjoy a cool cone from Lighthouse Ice Cream, featuring 39 flavors of the sweet treat — both traditional hard scoop and soft serve — along with an ocean view. Looking for fun in the sun? Check out Dog Beach, where pooches and people play in the sand and surf. Afterward, dog owners venture to the do-it-yourself Dog Beach Dog Wash to give their furry friends a scrub in a tub. Also try a slice of heaven from Leucadia Pizzeria, offering take-out and delivery of piping-hot pizzas, pastas and more in nearby Point Loma. Dreaming of buying a home in the area? Start the search with premier Ocean Beach real-estate agent Catrina Russell, a top performer at Coldwell Banker. Catrina’s a beach lover and can help locate that breathtaking ocean view — or a place close to it.
To the north, Mission Bay is home to lagoons, parks and the worldfamous SeaWorld. Have fun parasailing over the Bay or blasting full speed across its flat surface on a Jet ski, the wind and ocean spray in your face.
Teeming with activity is Mission Beach, home to the family attraction Belmont Park, with the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, arcade games, rock-climbing, a zip line, bumper cars, mini-golf and more. Mission Beach is also a people-watching mecca, where free-spirited visitors converge to hang out, especially on weekends. From concession stands to fine-dining eateries, busy night clubs to street performers, expect to find all kinds of fun along the sandy shores. Next door in Pacific Beach, wake up to fluffy, fun and whimsical treats at the Donut Bar on Garnet and Gresham Avenues. The artisan bakery’s offerings include The Unicorn Donut, decked out with “buttercream mane” and white chocolate ears and horn. Traditional donut lovers can opt for more simple options like Boston Creme; or a classic Regular Glaze. For lunch or dinner, enjoy fresh, light and healthy homemade recipes passed through generations at Lanna Thai Cuisine on Mission Bay Drive.
For unforgettable gourmet fare and gorgeous coastal views, stroll along Prospect Street in La Jolla, known as the Jewel of San Diego. The charming village features fine dining, ritzy boutiques and high-end art galleries. Just off Prospect on Girard Avenue, find the beloved bakery and restaurant Girard Gourmet, serving inspired farm-to-table cuisine. While on the coast, explore La Jolla Cove, one of the most spectacular natural settings in the world.
After a scenic drive north, dive into the world of sharks, seahorses and living coral reefs at Birch Aquarium at Scripps. This summer, Birch welcomes pint-sized penguins as a part of its new Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins exhibit. Catch these cute waddlers and torpedo swimmers in action and learn about some of the challenges facing them in the wild. A few miles east, visit Westfield UTC, a major open-air shopping and dining mall. Ride the MTS Trolley UC San Diego Blue Line to the UTC Transit Center, located at the sound end of the complex. For a map of Coastal San Diego, see page 73.
Downtown San Diego As the county’s cultural, financial and business center, downtown San Diego buzzes with activity. Much of the action takes place at the Embarcadero on shimmering San Diego Bay, which spans 34 miles and five cities: Chula Vista, National City, Imperial Beach, Coronado and San Diego. Strolling along the Embarcadero on Harbor Drive, explore historic ships and ride ferry boats. The floating Maritime Museum of San Diego awes visitors with its iconic vessels as does the aircraft carrier USS Midway to the south. Enjoy views of these attractions, San Diego’s skyline and more on the water with Flagship Cruises & Events with a convenient ticket booth located right on Harbor Drive.
Looking to catch a bite? Find plenty of options at Seaport Village, the waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment complex featuring panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the Coronado Bridge. The destination, home to novelty boutiques, a surf shop and a wine tasting room, plenty of bayview restaurants, cafés and lush meandering pathways, continues with a major revitalization. New Seaport Village venues opening in 2022 include Malibu Farm, serving farm-to-table California cuisine in a stunning indoor/outdoor setting; Gladstone’s (an iconic restaurant founded in Malibu in 1972), with a focus on classic seafood dishes including fish plates, king crab, Maine lobster, and more; and Shorebird, a modern take on classic Americana flavors with influences from traditional seafood and steakhouses.
Nearby, treat friends to Kansas City Barbeque, an easygoing hangout serving hearty helpings of barbecue and beer, and home to the 1986 hit film Top Gun. This San Diego landmark is open seven days a week year-round and has late-night dining. A few blocks over is the historic Gaslamp Quarter, the city’s hottest dining and entertainment area for visitors and locals alike. While strolling around, also be sure to visit Sole Concepts, a new Birkenstock San Diego store. Also make a reservation or drop in at The Cat Café, a coffee and cat lovers’ paradise. The café offers feline fun and a chance for guests to provide a fur-ever home. Walk-in visitors are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
A few blocks to the east, downtown’s busy East Village is anchored by Petco Park, home to San Diego Padres baseball. Fans can zip to the game via numerous Metropolitan Transit Service (MTS) bus routes, or on the iconic bright red MTS Trolley, with a station – at 12th and Imperial – right at the ballpark.
A 15-minute walk northwest, shop diamonds, gemstones, gold, silver and more on eight floors at the impressive San Diego Jewelers Exchange. Celebrate those shiny new purchases at Quigley Fine Wines, a family-owned artisanal wine importer serving international wines and West Coast vintages. The venue at the corner of Fourth and Cedar features a gorgeous giant teak tasting bar, and knowledgeable servers. Stop by Quigley after work, with friends or a date, or before or after a ball game.
To the northwest, Little Italy welcomes visitors with a friendly street sign, inviting them to explore the district’s shops and savor Italian cuisine. While in the area, find timeless treasures at India Street Antiques/Danish Modern San Diego, a large-volume furnishings dealer in North Little Italy.
Just northeast of downtown, the city’s cultural jewel, Balboa Park, attracts visitors from around the globe to its world-class museums and the San Diego Zoo. Not to be missed is a ride on the Balboa Park Carousel, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2022! Located near the Zoo’s parking lot entrance, the menagerie model merry-go-round – offering the brass ring game – continues to provide joy to kids of all ages, and is open daily June 15 to Aug. 26; followed by weekends and school holidays in the fall and winter.
Strolling the Prado in Balboa Park, explore venues, such as the immersive Fleet Science Center. Stir your wanderlust and get lost in aviation and space exploration at the awe-inspiring San Diego Air & Space Museum. Take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful Japanese Friendship Garden and steps away, behold the largest outdoor musical instrument in the world while enjoying free Sunday afternoon concerts by the Spreckels Organ Society. See and save on many of these attractions and buy a Balboa Park Explorer Pass by visiting explorer.balboapark.org. For direct access to Balboa Park, take a Metropolitan Transit Service (MTS) bus, with several stops along Park Boulevard.
Other activities include sightseeing on traditional cruiser bikes or carriage-like surreys from Wheel Fun Rentals, with two Harbor Drive locations: Wyndham San Diego Bayside or San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina, and one at the Manchester Grand Hyatt south of Seaport Village. At day’s end, choose from San Diego’s hotel options or for extended stays, such as Stay San Diego, your resource for corporate- and vacation-furnished rentals and home-buying. For a map of downtown San Diego, see page 73.
Central San Diego
An epicenter of dining, shopping and living history, Central San Diego offers much to entertain and enlighten visitors. Old Town San Diego, established in 1769, was the first European settlement on the West Coast, and is considered to be the birthplace of California. Today, Old Town recreates the setting of California life during the Mexican and early American periods from 1821-1872. Watch forms come to life at the blacksmith and woodworker shops, and read a newspaper from the 19th century. At the San Diego Mormon Battalion Historic Site, visitors can learn about a journey of Mormon Battalion families who left Iowa in 1846, and completed one of the longest infantry marches in American history to San Diego. Pick up a handmade gift and celebrate good times at Fiesta de Reyes plaza, containing festive restaurants and locally owned specialty shops, such as Rose’s Tasting Room, where guests enjoy sampling boutique wines and San Diego craft beers. Also visit Diane Powers’ Bazaar del Mundo Shops, overflowing with select fashions, folk art and more and featuring the award-winning Casa Guadalajara Mexican restaurant. Just outside Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, along San Diego Avenue, stop in at Temecula Olive Oil Company. The shop offers free samples of fresh, antioxidant-rich olive oils, vinegars, herbs and spices. The family-owned and operated company grows its olives on a ranch east of Temecula. The shop has another location inside Fiesta de Reyes. Nearby, slip into sole-satisfying footwear at Birkenstock of San Diego. Enjoy easy access to Old Town via the MTS Trolley’s UC San Diego Blue Line and Sycuan Green Line, which delivers riders to the historic neighborhood’s doorstep.
Northeast, find Mira Mesa, home to Best Pizza & Brew, a familyfriendly haven for pizza lovers and craft beer enthusiasts, and Miramar. To the northwest in Sorrento Valley, find Torrey Holistics, offering recreational cannabis and medicinal products to help elevate health and wellness. South of the MCAS-Miramar base lies Kearny Mesa, a major industrial and commercial center offering activities like puzzle-room escapes, brewery tours and shooting centers. The community is also home to diverse restaurants and supermarkets. For a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner, try Studio Diner, serving up classic American fare on a former film and TV production lot. For a map of Central San Diego, see pages 73 & 74.
East County
For mountain hiking, Las-Vegas style gaming, shopping, wine-tasting and more, East County’s the place. The foothills and canyons provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy the drive out to Jamul, home of picturesque vineyard Granite Lion Cellars. The expansive estate winery — part of a growing wine region along scenic Highway 94 — features a pretty oak grove and a new tasting room location from which to sip the winery’s award-winning varietals. For a small-town delight, stop in La Mesa and stroll through a farmers market. Or pick up gifts at two area shopping malls, Parkway Plaza and Grossmont Center. The latter is home to Casa de Pico, serving famous enchiladas, warm handmade tortillas and giant birdbath margaritas. Join in the fiesta with a birdbath margarita and the Cheese Crisp Special, on the menu since the restaurant opened in 1971. The popular dish includes a crisp flour tortilla topped with refried beans, two kinds of beef or shredded chicken and melted cheese, plus avocado slices, tomato wedges, guacamole and sour cream.
Also serving families for generations is Marieta’s, making carne asada, burritos and popular combination platters in La Mesa since 1986. Marieta’s also has locations in El Cajon, Santee and Alpine. In El Cajon, discover North American artifacts at the Heritage of Americas Museum. Spending time with the kids? Swing over to FUN Believable Play, a popular indoor play and party arena for children in Lakeside. For quick transit to East County, take the MTS Trolley’s Orange Line or Sycuan Green Line, both which whisk riders out to a station at Grossmont Center and several in El Cajon. For a map of East County, see page 74.
North County Inland Wild animals, wine-tasting, golf and casinos top the attractions in North County’s interior. In Ramona, visit the Ramona Chamber of Commerce to inquire about pursuits, like hiking, horseback riding or antique shopping. The Chamber also hosts the Ramona Country Fair (July 29-31, 2022) featuring animals, Wild West shows, contests, great food and live music.
In San Marcos, visit Furniture Row, and pick up special-occasion gifts at The Antique Village, filled with vintage decor and collectibles.
At the eastern gateway to Escondido, find the world-famous San Diego Zoo Safari Park, inviting guests to see giraffes, lions, tigers and other animals in a vast reserve. A few miles away, enjoy Queen Califia’s Magical Circle, an acclaimed large-scale sculpture garden by French/American artist Niki de Saint Phalle. The city also attracts motorists to its expansive Auto Park, a destination featuring at least a dozen dealerships selling new or used cars, trucks, crossovers, and SUVs. Drivers looking for comfy auto accessories can stop by Superlamb on Auto Park Way. The manufacturer and retailer outfits cars with custom sheepskin covers for seats, steering wheels, seat belts, consoles and even bicycle seats. The store also carries cozy sheepskin footwear, and UGG boots.
Downtown, the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, draws audiences from near and far to its 1,500-seat concert hall, 400-seat theater, contemporary art museum, and art and dance studios. Its extensive performing arts season includes Broadway musicals, San Diego Symphony concerts, and this summer and fall, the Cabaret in the Courtyard series, a tribute to various recording artists and their greatest hits.
Just a few blocks away, the EcoVivarium Living Museum offers animal encounters with exotic creatures like snakes, lizards and tarantulas while the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum inspires kids to explore, imagine and experiment. Nearby, Stone & Glass, a glassblowing studio and gift gallery, invites visitors to “play with fire” and shop the exquisite objects it makes with molten glass. At Hawthorne Country Store, buy everything for your furry, feathered and equine friends and visit and learn about raising adorable little chicks.
For food, drink and an elegant afternoon, spend time at The Grand Tea Room, providing tea service three times a day in a Victorian-themed salon. For another unique palate-pleasing experience, try Cuscatlan Salvadorian Cuisine. The downtown Escondido restaurant is known for its tasty pupusas, El Salvador’s national dish. The pupusas are thick, round corn cakes cooked on a hot griddle stuffed with fillings like beans, cheese, pork, zucchini, shrimp, and loroco. Feeling adventurous? Try the Pupusa Loca: a large 10 inches in diameter pupusa with all the ingredients — almost a pound of toppings and cheese! At Jacked Up Brewery, the first address on Grand Avenue, enjoy pints, pizza and pretzel bites along with live music, comedy shows, and other events. Craft beer is made with local ingredients and produced on site.
On Orange Street, just off Grand Avenue, find fabulous breakfast and lunch spot Sunny Side Kitchen, serving up grilled-to-order panini, fresh salads, old-fashioned lemonade and bite-size cookies along with one of “The best breakfast sandwiches in America,” according to Yelp and Bake Magazine.
For information about downtown events, visit the Downtown Escondido Business Association, dedicated to supporting and preserving the Old Historic Downtown Business District, at downtownescondido.com.
Get to Escondido in a flash via the east-west SPRINTER hybrid rail or on a Breeze Bus, both which stop at the Escondido Transit Center just a few minutes from downtown. Visit goNCTD.com.
Visiting the Escondido countryside to the north, be sure to tour a spectacular attraction, Deer Park Winery & Auto Museum, blending estate wines with classic cars. The vineyard on Champagne Boulevard features the world’s largest collection of American convertibles, ranging from carriages of the 1800s to the muscle cars of the 1970s — each iconic model evoking reverence and nostalgia.
For complete information on recreational opportunities, arts and museums, culinary experiences, shopping and more, explore visitescondido.com.
Up Interstate 15, nestled in rolling hills, the city of Temecula sits in a valley with a quaint downtown, beautiful resorts and lovely vineyards. On Vista Del Monte Road, enjoy delicious wines and savor rolling vineyard views at Vindemia Vineyard & Winery. Sip by the glass or enjoy pours at the outdoor tasting bar, located in a private rose garden, or on the sunny terrace.
A few miles southeast down Rancho California Road in Temecula, sample unparalleled wines with views to match at Avensole Winery. The hilltop venue has a restaurant featuring chef-prepared cuisine, an elegant tasting room and a beautifully manicured ceremony lawn and reception site for weddings. Relax on the tasting room patio by the pond or walk the grounds and enjoy the fabulous landscaping. Down the road, taste delicious varietals at Wiens Family Cellars. The family-run estate winery is known for its high-quality big reds, wow-worthy whites, refreshing rosés, and another showstopper — Amour De L’Orange, a savory sparkler with a citrus twist.
Also not to be missed are estate-grown varietals paired with picturesque valley views on the De Portola Wine Trail, a collection of family-owned boutique wineries known as the “Wine Row” of Temecula. The trail includes Cougar Vineyard & Winery, Frangipani Estate Winery, Fazeli Cellars, Danza del Sol Winery, Masia de la Vinya Winery, Gershon Bachus Vintners, Leoness Cellars, Oak Mountain Winery, Robert Renzoni Vineyards & Winery and Somerset Vineyard & Winery. Linger awhile at these lovely venues, and savor artisan fare from restaurants such as Baba Joon’s Kitchen at Fazeli Cellars, and Sangio’s Deli — known for its daily specials — at Cougar Vineyard & Winery. For a map of North County Inland, see pages 72 & 74.
North County Coastal Spend time in North County’s coastal cities viewing exquisite scenery. The pretty city of Del Mar is bordered by two lagoons with a downtown filled with delightful shops and haute cuisine. Its annual horse-racing season — “Where the Surf Meets the Turf at Del Mar” — presented by the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, and the San Diego County Fair are signature events. While downtown, try on tailored apparel at Carolyn’s Designer Resale, carrying high-end and vintage labels for less.
Venturing north, visit Solana Beach, a friendly seaside community with the Belly Up, a prominent live music venue; and North Coast Repertory Theatre, a leading arts organization, which proudly celebrates its 41st season in 2022. The Rep produces seven diverse main stage plays and a special holiday show each year. Also catch its Variety Night shows ranging from comedy nights to musical entertainment.
Famous for world-class surfing and a charming historic downtown is Encinitas, northern neighbor of Solana Beach. Situated along the Highway 101 corridor, its sidewalks invite all to linger at its outdoor cafes, restaurants, boutiques and specialty shops. Many of these, like Birkenstock of San Diego Stores, can be found at the charming outdoor Lumberyard Shopping Center. A few blocks up the road, Leucadia Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant serves classic Italian food in a relaxed setting. Nearby in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, grab a wide range of pizzas whole or by the slice at Best Pizza & Brew.
Another charming seaside city is Carlsbad, home to LEGOLAND®, a popular state beach, oceanfront boardwalk and bustling downtown. The city also offers numerous walking trails in its rolling hills and along three lagoons.
For the quintessential coastal-cool experience, book a stay at Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach, A Hilton Resort & Spa. The Pacific Coast Highway resort is a traveler’s dream as well as locals’ favorite. Relax and recharge by strolling the beach across the street, and take advantage of the venue’s first-class Ocean Crest Spa, as well as farm-to-table cuisine and regional and international wine list at Chandler’s Oceanfront Dining. For another shimmering oceanfront option, check out the deluxe property Hilton Garden Inn, Carlsbad Beach, just to the north. The family-friendly hotel features traditional, pool and ocean view rooms, a large outdoor pool and hot tub, a rustic outdoor fireplace, and its Coast 6450 Restaurant. Guests of either hotel taking advantage of Stay To Play golf packages may swing over to the The Crossings, a nearby 18-hole championship public golf course, sporting impeccable greens, rolling fairways and spectacular ocean views. The hilltop venue offers multiple options and terrain to challenge golfers of all skill levels.
Up the coast, excursions include shopping and dining at downtown’s Village Faire. Explore this two-story seaside complex with restaurants, shops and services surrounding a fountain courtyard with benches for relaxing. Upper-level restaurants include Gregorio’s Italian Restaurant, serving pizzas, pastas and more inside or on the pretty patio; and Vinaka’s, a sunny cafe serving fresh pastries, natural ice cream, made-to-order sandwiches (everything from turkey & avocado to veggie wraps), smoothies, cakes and pies.
The shop offers free WiFi, a coffee and tea refill, and a relaxed atmosphere. A stroll away, savor homemade fare at Prontos Gourmet Market, a popular family-owned deli and neighborhood market in Carlsbad Village. On Tamarack Avenue, order piping hot pizzas to go from Leucadia Pizza Kitchen.
For regional art and entertainment as well as educational and interactive fun, take in a concert or try out an instrument at the Museum of Making Music, completely remodeled in 2021. Four newly designed galleries include a panoramic multimedia display, video stories, photos, hundreds of artifacts, and performance clips by major artists. Visitors of all ages are also invited to experiment with a variety of stringed instruments, including banjos and guitars, at colorful “Sit & Play” stations.
A few miles to the east, explore Vista, home to an outdoor amphitheater specializing in musical productions, a water park, historic rancho buildings and other attractions. New in Vista is Best Pizza & Brew, serving pizza by the slice and 30 craft beers on draft.
Just northwest is Oceanside, a classic California beach city, with one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast, a Cape-Cod style harbor offering boat rentals and outdoor dining at its marina, and a South Coast Highway corridor that has turned into a major culinary destination. The city also enjoys a year-round Farmers Market and Sunset Market on Thursdays hosted by MainStreet Oceanside.
At the harbor, daily sportfishing trips can be booked at Oceanside SEA Center. The outing is so fun you’ll get hooked and want to go again. Also roll along the beach or harbor’s edge with bikes and surreys from Wheel Fun Rentals. The outfitter has a location on the Strand by the Oceanside Pier.
In the heart of downtown, gather for authentic Mexican fare at Señor Grubby’s, a family-friendly eatery within a short walk of the Oceanside Pier. Sip classic cocktails with a twist at Frankie’s, a mellow haven on Pier View Way; and savor Neapolitan style wood-fired pizza, freshly prepared pasta and succulent seafood in a celebrated historic newspaper building at Blade 1936. On South Coast Highway, browse a trio of side-by-side stores filled with clothing, collectibles, art and more: Discover one-of-a-kind vintage and consignment items at 101 Marketplace, carrying antiques, glass, collectibles, jewelry, toys, and retro home decor. Next door, feel like a star in your own home with a piece of Hollywood from Previously On, an entertaining shop selling furnishings and other home decor hot off the set. Steps away, dive into highly curated local art (including trippy blacklight posters), vintage, vinyl, knick-knacks and unique gifts at the new and cool Goblin Shark Emporium.
For a tastebud-satisfying treat nearby, visit the Tremont Collective, the 13,000 square-foot retail and dining destination on Tremont Street near the coast. Two new hot spots in the collective buzz with activity. In the mood for a picnic? Let Al ‘Fresk, creating bountiful graze boards and tables, private chef experiences as well as curated luxury outdoor experiences, handle the details. Locals can shop and try fresh sandwiches or cheese boards at the Al ‘Fresk market. Also gather at Shootz Fish x Beer, a sensational new eatery serving sustainably-sourced poke, tacos and craft beer that has fish-forward fans hooked.
Nearby on Cleveland Street, boost your energy with smoothies, juices, nut mylks and much more at Roots Craft Juice, also known for its tasty açaí bowls and variety of toasts and bagels.
In the eclectic neighborhood known as South “O”, check out Sea Hive Marketplace, filled with modern and vintage home decor, chic bohemian apparel and estate jewelry. Also explore the Estate Sale Warehouse, a wellknown emporium. Buy trendy beach and swimwear from Boom Boom Brazil. Toast to good times at Anita’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, serving up true Mexican Fare, and watch the world go by while enjoying drinks and delicious eats at the Pour House. In the mood for pizza? For pizza by the slice or whole pie, check out Best Pizza & Brew up the street.
Oceanside is also the hub of the North County Transit District, whose family of services includes the scenic north-south COASTER commuter train, east-west SPRINTER hybrid rail and BREEZE bus network. Visit goNCTD.com to cruise past traffic and see the sights. For a map of North County Coastal, see page 74.
South County
Just south of downtown San Diego lies South Bay, home to Chula Vista and National City. Fun visitor experiences abound here, like the Living Coast Discovery Center, a non-profit zoo and aquarium offering an intimate, handson nature experience for animal-lovers of all ages. In Chula Vista, enjoy stunning views of San Diego Bay from waterfront parks.
South Bay is also a gateway to Mexico. Travelers catching flights out of Tijuana are invited to use the efficient CBX Cross Border Xpress, an enclosed pedestrian skywalk bridge exclusively for Tijuana International Airport passengers who cross the U.S./Mexico border as part of their trip. Spanning 390 feet, the CBX skywalk is the first ever to connect a facility in the U.S. (Otay Mesa) directly into a foreign airport terminal. For a quick way to get to South Bay and the Mexico border, hop on the MTS Trolley’s UC San Diego Blue Line, which stops in National City, Chula Vista and San Ysidro. For a South County map, see pages 72 & 74.
REAL ESTATE
Catrina Russell/Coldwell Banker West
DRE: 01229742 • (619) 226-BUYS (2897) 5 map on page 73
Call Catrina Russell, Coldwell Banker’s top real estate agent in San Diego County. A longtime resident of the Ocean Beach/Point Loma area, she has received the Customer Service Business of the Year Award by the Ocean Beach MainStreet Association several years in a row. Dedicated and professional, Catrina consistently exceeds her clients’ expectations. For a free, no-obligation home evaluation, or if you are considering selling or purchasing a home, contact her at [email protected] or for more information visit www.CatrinaRussell.com. Download OCEAN BEACH REAL ESTATE for a full interactive experience. Available on the App Store or Google Play.
LEASING / VACATION RENTALS / EXTENDED STAY
Stay San Diego
302 Island Ave. #103, San Diego • (619) 696-3280 4 map on page 73
Imagine waking up in the morning to a beautiful view of San Diego Bay from your balcony and being within walking distance to downtown San Diego’s attractions, restaurants and shops. Stay San Diego has dozens of beautifully designed, fully-furnished properties for corporate, short & long-term leases, extended stays and vacation rentals. Choose from luxury condos with swimming pool and downtown views to urban retreats with access to the Trolley — or both! Let knowledgeable professionals help you with leasing or property management. Stay San Diego is located in downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. staysandiego.net
