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Take in the beauty of San Diego, our sunny playground boasting beautiful beaches and bays, as well as recreational inland adventures. On the coast, enjoy picturesque seaside views along with treasured attractions, like the impressive USS Midway Museum and The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, showcasing world-class bayside concerts. Also explore downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter, sizzling with food, fun, shops and shows. Our cultural crown jewel, Balboa Park, further dazzles with an array of museums, peaceful gardens, a classic carousel and a magnificent zoo. Need an inland or rural escape? Connect 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 make 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. Visitors can zip over via car over the Coronado Bay Bridge or on the ferry with Flagship Cruises & Events. Those in the mood for retail therapy can browse the beautiful boutiques on the main thoroughfare of Orange Avenue, or at the Coronado Ferry Landing, the seaside shopping and dining destination. Find iconic stores like Birkenstock of San Diego and dine at longtime favorites, such as Spiro’s Mediterranean Cuisine. Ferry Landing activities include exploring San Diego Bay via kayak, paddle board, bicycle and Jet Ski, with rental locations right on site. Also tour the island on a bicycle or surrey with Wheel Fun Rentals located on the boardwalk at the landmark Hotel del Coronado. 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, arts galleries and attractive shops. Be sure to stop by Point Loma Tea, carrying an impressive selection of organic whole leaf teas and gift-perfect accessories.

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 MainStreet 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 & The Heart of Rock N Roll, a friendly music and thrift shop on Newport Avenue showcasing everything from brand-name clothing to antique furniture, to handmade gifts and most recently — live concerts! 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 world-famous 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 freespirited visitors converge to hang out, especially on weekends. From busy night clubs to street performers and concession stands, expect to find all kinds of fun along the sandy shores. Restaurant options are also plentiful, and include well-known breakfast and lunch spots such as The Mission, a locals’ favorite since 1997.

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. Two top-rated restaurants within steps of each other are Richard Walker’s Pancake House, serving award-winning, breakfast and lunch fare, including the world-famous Baked Apple Pancake; and Spiro’s Mediterranean Cuisine, noted for its crisp spanakopita, delicious lamb-beef gyros, mouthwatering chicken kabobs and other Greek specialties. Just off Prospect on Girard Avenue, find the beloved bakery and restaurant Girard Gourmet, serving inspired farm-to-table cuisine. A few blocks away, enjoy world-class acts and acclaimed artists at the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, home of the La Jolla Music Society. This prestigious cultural organization presents a variety of artistic experiences, from classical and jazz concerts to dance and global roots performances, as well as SummerFest, a month-long celebration of innovative chamber music, jazz and more. 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. Also view pint-sized penguins at the 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. To get there, skip the traffic and ride the MTS Trolley UC San Diego Blue Line to the elevated platform at UTC Transit Center, located near the southwest end of the complex and above Genesee Avenue. For a map of Coastal San Diego, see page 77.

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 slated to open in 2023 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. Enjoy a memorable meal at Mezé Greek Fusion, serving Greek-inspired small plates and entrées with a Southern California twist, along with handcrafted cocktails from its open-air full bar and lounge. The restaurant also features outdoor seating, as does another Gaslamp draw, Havana 1920, transporting guests to Hemingway’s Cuba with authentic offerings like tropical ceviche and Cubanos, Caribbean drinks and live entertainment. Just below the venue, slink into debonair speakeasy Prohibition, a 1920s-themed nightclub evoking glamour and a Gatsby-esque scene. Locating the covert entrance is part of the fun.

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. Steps away, enjoy homemade American comfort classics with a twist at Cafe 222, an area staple since 1992. For a musical night to remember, check out The Shout! House, home of a rollicking dueling piano show. Next door, hang out at Garage Kitchen + Bar, serving up daily brunch and dinner, as well as a popular happy hour.

Also savor Richard Walker’s Pancake House, home of the world-famous oven-baked apple pancake. Flip for the famous flapjacks, egg combos, crepes and more at this outstanding family restaurant on Front Street.

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. The East Village is also home to diverse restaurants, including The Mission, a popular bistro serving up morning delights such as hearty steak and eggs, breakfast burrito, avocado toast, and of course, classic pancakes. The cafe has two other locations: one in North Park on Universiy Avenue and in Mission Beach.

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.

For arts and entertainment, downtown San Diego is just the ticket. Catch world-class concerts by the San Diego Symphony at its two stunning venues. The Symphony performs April through October at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park on beautiful San Diego Bay; and beginning Nov. 4, 2023, the Symphony celebrates the grand reopening of its newly renovated and revitalized indoor home: Copley Symphony Hall at Jacobs Music Center. Improved sight lines, acoustics, new seating and finishes, and restored architectural details will combine to create an experience of rich sound and intimacy for the audience and musicians in the nearly 100-year-old hall.

Northwest of downtown, the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy welcomes visitors with a friendly street sign, inviting them to explore the district’s shops and savor diverse cuisine. While in the area, savor world-famous Argentinian-style steaks, decadent pastas, and light flaky empanadas at Puerto La Boca, a beloved restaurant right on India Street. Also 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, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2022. Located near the Zoo’s parking lot entrance, the menagerie model merry-go-round – offering the brass ring game – provides joy to kids of all ages. Having undergone recent upgrades and a restoration, the carousel is set to reopen in July 2023. 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. Or meander through the peaceful Japanese Friendship Garden, making sure to visit the Koi ponds and exhibits. 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 carriagelike 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. Looking for a real estate expert in America’s Finest City? Gerry Burchard is a proven formula who is dedicated to delivering the best for first-time and repeat clients. For a map of downtown San Diego, see page 77.

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 like Barra Barra Saloon and Casa de Reyes, 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. 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. 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. The area is home to Corporate Helicopters, offering soaring adventures over the San Diego coastline, city skyscrapers and gorgeous inland locales.

For outdoor exploration, let the County of San Diego Department of Parks and Recreation (headquartered in Kearny Mesa) introduce you to the the upside of outside — from biking to hiking, backpacking to birding, camping and stargazing. Plan an adventure at sdparks.org. For a map of Central San Diego, see pages 77 & 78.

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. 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.

In Santee, enjoy handmade pizzas, and dishes crafted from Sicilian recipes at Nicolosi’s Italian Restaurant, a San Diego institution since 1952. Spending time with the kids? Swing over to FUNBelievable 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. The Green Line’s terminus is at Santee Town Center on the northeast quadrant of the intersection of Mission Gorge Road and Cuyamaca Street. For a map of East County, see page 78.

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 opens its 42nd season in September 2023. 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. For outdoor exploration, visit the San Diego Botanic Garden, an urban oasis nestled among 37 acres just east of Interstate 5. With miles of scenery, three children’s gardens, and amazing blooms, the venue is family-friendly as well as a great place to connect to nature.

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. At The Forum Carlsbad shopping and dining complex, experience the festive Casa de Bandini, serving mouthwatering Mexican fare, such as homemade enchiladas, grilled carnitas and shrimp fajitas.

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, challenging 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. 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. For fizzy fun, check out Local Roots Kombucha, a kitchen and brewery that has earned recent buzz for its 40 rotating taps and indoor-outdoor aesthetic. The venue has another location in Solana Beach.

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 and dolphin and whale watching adventures can be booked at Oceanside SEA Center. The outings are 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 Neapolitan style wood-fired pizza, freshly prepared pasta and succulent seafood in a celebrated historic newspaper building at Blade 1936. Around the corner, 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. Just to the northeast up Mission Avenue, enjoy true Tijuana-style street tacos at Frida’s Taqueria, the venue’s new coastal location; or farther east, gather for patty melts, burgers and shakes surrounded by car-themed memorabilia at Pit Stop Diner.

Oceanside is also known for its eclectic business district South “O” - as the locals call it - along South Coast Highway. The neighborhood has been revitalized in recent years, sporting new eateries, breweries and boutiques. Shop for treasures at Sea Hive Marketplace, filled with modern and vintage home decor, chic bohemian apparel and estate jewelry. Toast to good times at Anita’s Mexican Restaurant & Cantina, serving up authentic Mexican Fare. For a map of North County Coastal, see page 76.

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 many annual community events, including the Ramona Country Fair (July 28-30); the Ramona Motorcycle Rally (Oct. 7-8), Merchants Safe Trick or Treat (Oct. 31) and the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting (Dec. 2). The area is also home to the Ramona Valley Vineyards Association, comprised of dozens of award-winning family-owned boutique wineries cultivating grapes and bottling estate-grown varietals right on the premises. 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. Down the road, the San Diego Archaeological Center curates artifacts documenting 10,000 years of San Diego County history. 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.

Downtown, 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. 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.

Ready for some retail therapy? Shop the Escondido Antique Mall, a mainstay on Grand Avenue for amazing antiques, collectibles and much more. Also don’t miss the downtown Escondido Certified Farmers’ Market, showcasing fresh-picked California-grown fruits, vegetables, flowers and other goodies. The market runs 2:30 p.m.-sunset Tuesdays at Heritage Garden Park.

Just a few blocks away on East Valley Parkway, treat your tastebuds to taqueria hot spot Frida’s Taqueria. Locals and out-of-town foodies line up to watch master grillers fire up their orders. South and just off Interstate 15, enjoy homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner with a smile at BAPS! The eatery serves deli delights, pasta and pizza, straight-out-of-the-oven cinnamon rolls, and a signature Drunken Viking Omelette, sure to satisfy all.

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.

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. For complete information on recreational opportunities, arts and museums, culinary experiences, shopping and more, explore visitescondido.com. For a map of North County Inland, see pages 76 & 78.

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, hands-on nature experience for animal-lovers of all ages. In Chula Vista, enjoy stunning views of San Diego Bay from waterfront parks. 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 76 & 78.

Temecula

Up Interstate 15, nestled in rolling hills, the city of Temecula sits in a valley with a quaint downtown, beautiful resorts and lovely vineyards. For unforgettable wine-tasting experiences, journey east on Rancho California Road, the city’s pathway to Temecula Wine Country. Soak in vineyard views, beautiful sunsets, award-winning wines, and/or stay the night at the French-inspired Inn at Churon Winery. Up the road, pair award-winning artisan red wines along with the famous baked brie in a sourdough loaf at Maurice Car’rie Vineyard & Winery. The venue has a grand veranda, lush picnic grounds, an elegant tasting room and a beautifully manicured ceremony lawn and reception site for weddings. Continue on the route to Carter Estate Winery and Resort, offering an exclusive collection of fine wines. Just across the roundabout, visit Carter’s sister resort, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, which offers contemporary California cuisine from The Vineyard Rose Restaurant. Both properties also invite guests to relax in romantic accommodations tucked into the vines. Next door, explore the sustainably farmed Ponte Family Estate Winery, with the luxurious Ponte Vineyard Inn just a stroll away. Steps from Ponte, 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 savory sparklers. 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 Altisima Winery, 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 Temecula, see page 78.

REAL ESTATE

Gerry Burchard

868 W. Ash Street, San Diego • (619) 206-2811 • 31 map on page 77

Straight from the cover of a nationally distributed magazine, long time realtor, financial advisor, property developer, and certified international property specialist Gerry Burchard lives to leverage his unique blend of skills to assist clients in navigating property markets and closing the deals. With nearly 40 years of domestic and international experience in property development, financial advising, investment banking, and real estate sales, Gerry has a depth and breadth of knowledge that is unparalleled. Boasting hands-on experience with projects of all sizes and degrees of complexity, including the development of 34 villas in Cabo San Lucas and an award-winning tennis club, this San Diego/San Francisco native is not only confident that he’s the best, but also dedicated to delivering the best; he wants to be the realtor that you’ll keep. Gerry Burchard is a proven formula whose cross-industry binational experience has no equal. Give him a ring for your real estate needs in San Diego (619-206-2811) or Cabo San Lucas (624-237-6087), or schedule an appointment at gerryburchard.com

Catrina Russell/Coldwell Banker West

DRE: 01229742 • (619) 226-BUYS (2897) • 5 map on page 77

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 77

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 pools 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

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