Destination: San Diego

San Diego is bigger than you think. With so much to offer, here are a few ideas (approved by locals as always) to start your trip planning. If you find this information helpful, tips are appreciated for my work :)

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Where to Stay:

Hotel del Coronado

@thetravelingballerina

This charming and historic hotel provides beach front fun and relatively easy access to the downtown scene.

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Carte Hotel San Diego Downtown, Curio Collection by Hilton

@thetravelingballerina

Super great for easy downtown access!

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Lafayette Hotel

@thetravelingballerina

Beyond stunning decor with service to match.

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Where to Eat:

Barbusa

@thetravelingballerina

You really can't go wrong here, but also get the gnocchi. I was basically licking my plate.

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Board & Brew - Pacific Beach

@thetravelingballerina

A Southern California cult classic

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Hodad's Ocean Beach

@thetravelingballerina

Absolutely iconic, my family stops by after every baseball game at PETCO Park. Multiple locations, but I've always loved this one the best.

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Where to Drink:

Part Time Lover

@thetravelingballerina

Potentially my favorite bar in San Diego? The vintage vibes are immaculate and the drinks are well crafted and delicious. The best part? There's a small record store in the back for patrons to thumb through and buy during their night out.

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Moonshine Beach

@thetravelingballerina

I admit, I like it more for the country dancing than I do for the drinks themselves, but it's really such a fun place to get the night going before hopping around the Pacific Beach bar scene.

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Juneshine

@thetravelingballerina

Hard Kombucha is just so quintessentially Southern California, and this place does it so well.

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Where to Go:

Children's Pool La Jolla

@thetravelingballerina

Don't be mislead by the name; this beach is usually overtaken by seals suntanning. The whole walk along the shore is perfect for spotting sea-life

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Cabrillo National Monument

@thetravelingballerina

Stunning views of the San Diego Skyline and a fun place to walk around and explore.

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San Diego Zoo Safari Park

@thetravelingballerina

Everyone knows the San Diego Zoo, but fewer are aware of the equally cool San Diego Safari Park.

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Want more specific ideas? Check out my additional Guides for San Diego:

Juliana

Gems of San Diego County

Downtown San Diego has a lot to offer, but don't overlook the rest of the county while planning your trip. This Guide contains all of my personal recommendations for activities, restaurants, and bars within San Diego County that can be mixed and matched to make the perfect itinerary for your visit. In this guide, you'll get: - a complete, organized list of my favorite restaurants and bars in the San Diego area - fun experiences for families, couples, and singles alike - underrated spots to enjoy the beauty of Southern California - tips from a local for getting the most out of your trip Updates are ongoing as I discover new spots. Once you unlock, you get those updates forever!

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Juliana

Underrated San Diego Foodie Spots

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Juliana

Local approved 📌 When I travel, I want to experience it all: food, art, culture, everything. Even more so, I want to experience it as a local. Enjoy recommendations and suggestions from an art-loving foodie who is constantly seeking the best way to learn about each new place I visit. Anywhere from US National Parks to European dream vacations, I've got you covered with guides and recommendations approved by local friends in the places I've visited. Check out my curated Guides for information and inspiration as you plan your trip!

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San Diego, CA, USA