Hey friends, I recently had the chance to visit San Diego earlier last year and compiled a list of must visit spots. From great hotel to stays, food spots, scenic views, attractions and family friendly activities you can use this guide to help you plan your next trip.
Hotel: Lakehouse Hotel & Resort
Enjoying a trip requires an amazing place to stay and Lake House Hotel is one of my favorite spot in SD. Not only was my experience staying here great but the on-site amenities and experiences at this resort was unbeatable.
This hotel is tucked away from the hustle of the downtown city and located on the most scenic lake in north county San Diego making the best relaxing & chill spot for a trip. And the rooms & countless great amenities at the property are simply more reasons to fall in love with this spot!!
Back in September Lake House set me up with their signature pool view studio suite. Walking into the room I immediately loved the overall aesthetic, the room had coastal, beach inspired vibes with gorgeous light blue walls and beautiful decor. The room itself had a large king bed which was so comfy and even a sofa bed. And whether I was in the room or enjoying time outside I felt as though everywhere was so well decorated and thought out that I enjoyed spending time in any area of the resort.
Along with rooms, the several pools and hot tubs on the property are musts for a relaxing and fun vacation perfect for the whole family. I especially appreciated the unique and one of kind experiences this place had to offer as well. For example this resort has one of the largest lakes in San Diego County where guests can rent a variety of boats from canoes, pontoons and more. And if your hungery there’s not only one but two amazing on site restaurants which just so happen to have some of the best dining views. As well as all day room service with a huge selection of menu items and an adorable coffee shop cafe with both drinks and fresh baked pastries.
This was a hosted stay but I truly fell in love with resort and would recommend it anyone interested in a San Deigo Trip
Shopping: Pigment
While on vacation shopping is a must and I always look for unique and specialty stores which also is worth shopping at. And Pigment is one of my personal favorite shops in SD as the quality of goods are top tier.
Pigment has three locations throughout San Diego County and they specialize in selling the most aesthetic, cute and one of kind items from gifts, plants, wellness items, clothes and almost anything you can could ever want!!
I first heard of this spot a while ago and was ecstatic to finally visit a few months back on a trip to San Diego!! And nothing about this place disappointed at all!! Stepping into the shop I was quite honestly blown away by how massive the interior was and how many items this place sold! And the quality was the best part. Everything was so beautifully designed and I loved how every single one of the items were finely crafted, unique & stylish!!
And did you also know that this shop carries many items from local vendors & small artisan shops!! Which is amazing since it keeps this spot unique & different, while also supporting local artists!!
With there being so many amazing specialty items it was so hard to pick what to buy!! But in the end I had to pick up one of their candles since this spot is caries a large variety of candles and are well known for them as well!’ And along with my candle picked up a cookbook
Oceanside Pier Beach
Located in Oceanside Ca the Ocean Side Pier Beach is one of my most popular beaches in the area. This beach is a historical landmark, filled with locals and tourist alike. I personally find the best times here are during the mornings and weekdays in order to beat the crowds.
The pier is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll, and watching the most breathtaking view of the ocean. And I especially love the beautiful coastline and water, as it’s such a relaxing spot to take walks, set up a picnic or watch the sunset. On weekends this spot is home to incredible vendors selling all kinds of delicious foods from ice creams, street food snacks, shaved ice, and more!!
Moonlight Beach
If your in search for a beach with a beautiful view and amazing weather you have to check this spot out!! This beach has plenty of places to park and is super accessible & easy to find as well.
I especially love visiting this beach since it has one of the best lookouts that’s spacious and surrounded by lush nature. The best times to visit are also during the weekdays in order to beat the crowd and the mornings here are especially fantastic as it’s such peaceful and relaxing time of day!!
Everbowl
If your looking for a spot with quality smoothies and smoothie bowls made with the freshest ingredients you must try everbowlcraftsuperfood!! This spot has locations all around SoCal making it convenient to find any at time!!
The restaurant specializes in smoothies and bowls crafted with super foods and is completely dairy free, vegan, and plant based. And from quality and flavor each aspect truly delivers. If you want to see a more in depth review of my visit here along with each dishes I tried out make sure to read up on my San Diego Must Try Food Spots!!
Parakeet Cafe
This is the most trendy and aesthetic brunch spot I've been in SD so far!!
Parakeet Cafe located in San Diego for those who love brunch!! Their cafe is honestly the absolute cutest and food here is almost too pretty to eat!! They have locations all around San Diego county and I honestly wish this spot was closer to me!!
Everything on the menu seemed so tempting from savory breakfast & lunch items, to mouthwateringly delicious sweet brunch and pastries!! I even had to order two entrees just for me since I was so indecisive.
This place is focused on providing only the freshest and most nutritious dishes and while being healthy everything is unimaginably delicious!! And the presentation of each item was spectacular, with every entree being plated so intricately and having such colorful and bright ingredients!! Each dish I tasted had such a vibrancy and freshness to it that I wish I could find easily at more places!!
Also no matter what dietary needs you have they have something for everyone!! From vegan and vegetarian dishes, gluten free options and more.
Blue Ocean Harumama
If your looking for amazing Japanese cuisine with the freshest sushi @harumamasd in La Jolla is the spot to visit. This place has one of the most gorgeous ocean front dining views and none of food ever disappoints. In fact I always have dinner here whenever I’m in San Diego and I make sure to order all my favorites from Japanese style small plates, sushi, ramen and their most popular items the character steamed buns!!
Little Italy Farmers Market
If you love farmers markets or finding fun activities to do on the weekends the Little Italy Farmers Market is the perfect spot. This event takes place every Saturday & Wednesday and lines the streets of Little Italy.
The small business here are absolutely amazing and offers almost anything you could think of from specialty foods, jewelry, home goods, clothing, desserts, cold pressed juicess and so much more. And aside from all the cool items you can find, this market is one of the largest farmers markets I’ve ever attended and extends across multiple streets. This is definitely a fun activity to come yourself or with friends and family, and is a must visit if you’re in San Diego.