San Diego | April 2016
This past April, my mother and I did a little mommy-daughter trip to the West Coast! While eating breakfast at our hotel in San Diego, I had my little tablet out to write a couple of emails for my then-new Stella & Dot business, when I saw the email with my acceptance to TAPIF for the fall!! I was so shocked I couldn’t form words! This trip will always be extra memorable due to the big news arriving during the vacation, but it was also a really special trip for me in other ways. For the first time in my life, I got to see the Pacific Ocean!
San Diego is one of my mother’s favorite cities, so it was extra fun to explore with her. I researched a bit before we arrived (and by research I mean I pinterested San Diego travel tips lol). Before I travel to places, I love to make a personal “to-do” list that gives me some type of guidance of Must-Sees etc, but I also don’t religiously follow said list. My mother and I are very much outdoor folks, especially when the weather allows for it so we spent as much time outside as we could! We used my list and my mother’s personal suggestions to experience the city together. I enjoy trips the most when I find a balance between planning and spontaneity.
Below is my suggested Bucket List for San Diego:
La Jolla Seal Cove
An absolute must-see, regardless of the smell! Seals, sea lions, and wildlife galore!
La Jolla Coast
There are paths along the cliffs and beachside all along La Jolla that is definitely worth the walk.
Windansea Beach
This is a small, relatively hidden beach, where you can really take in the locals. Huge surf spot!
Little Italy
Definitely worth a walk through, along with a nice meal. There’s also Breweries nearby!
Seaport Village
Beautiful area to walk around the port and take a pit stop at the Unconditional Surrender Statue!
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Amazing place to take a long hike. Several different paths and numerous gorgeous overlooks.
Torrey Pines Glider Port
Although I didn’t hang-glide myself, it is worth the stop to watch all the gliders over the coast!
Sunset Cliffs
No words needed. Perfect place to watch the sunset (clearly why it is named as such).
Old Town
Casa de Reyes is a really fun dinner locale with live music and fantastic Mexican food!
Hotel del Coronado
Beautiful inside and out! We watched the sunset here as well, while enjoying a cocktail.
Ocean Beach Pier
California’s second longest ‘over-the-beach’ pier. It’s a long walk but it’s a pretty crazy view!
Point Loma
This peninsula is home to the famous lighthouse and another gorgeous view of the coast.
XOXO
((3 weeks until I fly to France!))