From the beaches to boozy Kombucha, we’ve scoured the shores for the best ways to spend a weekend in San Diego. And let us just say, there are quite a few ways to have a wonderful getaway (or staycation) in America’s Finest City! Not only is it beautiful, but its home to some of the best coffee, beer, and Mexican food we’ve ever tasted. If that’s not enough to get you to make your way down South, or West, we don’t know what is!
Where to Stay
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa – This boutique gem, hidden in the Torrey Pines neighborhood of greater San Diego is a total escape. The hacienda-style resort’s prime location between La Jolla and Del Mar provides access to those aforementioned beautiful beaches, countless dining options, and plenty of outdoor activities. Not that you need to leave the hotel at all! Picture lush gardens where you can take part in morning yoga, quiet courtyards to sip your morning coffee, adobe fireplaces to enjoy tacos alongside, and winding pathways to guide you to your elegant room.
Where to Eat & Drink
The Grounds Bean Bar – We weren’t kidding when we said San Diego is home to some of the best coffee – and de facto coffee shops – around. This one boasts birds of paradise wallpaper and gold tables. Is there a better spot to enjoy a cup of joe and mouth watering breakfast eats? We think not.
Holy Matcha – Matcha bars aren’t only for New York City. No, one of the most photogenic places to get your Match fix is Holy Matcha in North Park! Again with the fun wallpaper, and this time green drinks – just be sure to sip your latte before it gets cold while you’re busy snapping all the ‘grams!
Copper Top Coffee – Drive through or walk up to this new coffee & donuts joint in Hillcrest. The donuts are too incredible to not walk away with a box full!
Parakeet Cafe – On the flip side of donuts, this healthy option serves up a totally organic menu of toasts, salads, bowls and more!
Adobe El Restaurante – Dare we say the best breakfast buffet… ever?! From Mexican Benedict to the freshest fruit and a Bloody Mary bar on the weekends, it’s the perfect way to start your day whether you’re staying at Estancia La Jolla or not!
Viewpoint Brewing Co. – A new favorite among locals and visitors alike, Viewpoint boasts a stellar outdoor setting and equally stellar brews and eats! Don’t be surprised by how delicious their gourmet mac n’ cheese or burger are!
Mustangs & Burros – Estancia’s resident Mexican restaurant serves up delicious tacos and a Sangrita that’s a little too easy to drink ;). And the atmosphere and scallop appetizer are just as incredible.
Juneshine Co. – If you haven’t yet tried hard Kombucha, this is the place to do so! Try your choice of tap at a seat at the rad tiled bar. The surfboards on the wall and plants hanging from the ceiling continue the cool San Diego vibes.
Kettner Exchange – There are so many awesome spots to dine in San Diego, but this is one of our favorites for tapas style eats! Plus, it’s Little Italy home is great to walk around and find another cocktail or dessert post-dinner.
What to Do
Hike Torrey Pines – This beautiful hike just a shuttle ride away from Estancia La Jolla features multiple trails, one of which takes you down to the water’s edge where you can beach it for the day or rest before trekking back up!
Lay by the Beach or Pool – It’s no surprise that people flock to San Diego for its beaches! There are plenty of options to choose from full of beauty and short on crowds. Take your pick, or enjoy the sun’s rays poolside, cocktail in hand at Estancia La Jolla!
The Del Mar Race Track – If you make it to San Diego before July 4, the Del Mar fair is famous for a reason. It’s full of fun & games and fair food – deep fried Oreos anyone? Later in July and on through November, though, the race track is home to thoroughbred horse races that are a can’t miss in our opinion! Have your fun betting on the best name or go just to wear a fancy hat!
Shop at Pigment – The cutest store on the block, as anyone who has ever visited would tell you! We’ve made trips to San Diego just to shop at this local gem full of goodies from brands like Kate Spade, Ban.do, Sugarfina, and
Watch the Sunset – there are so many beautiful overlooks to take in the expansive ocean views San Diego has to offer. Sunset is our favorite time to visit the aptly named Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma, or Gliderport in La Jolla, where you can watch paragliders show off or take a leap yourself! Take a blanket and a picnic and watch the sun fade beneath the sea in a breathtaking way!
Where are your favorite places to visit in San Diego?!
Pigment is my favorite!!
Holy Matcha looks incredible!
My hometown! This is fab, new recommendations for me! The #1 rule of San Diego is don’t go to Sea World! Watch The Cove (won an Oscar!) and Blackfish to learn more about animal abuse that goes on there.