San Diego Travel Guide for Adventure and Simplicity
Make the most of your time in San Diego, California with this simple travel guide based on our adventures.
We have been to San Diego a few times and we are never disappointed. Being by the ocean with great weather is everything you need out of a vacation.
Since San Diego is located so far down in California we don't get to visit as often so we always make sure to make the most of our time there. We get to enjoy a packed vacation full of adventures and fun in the sun.
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Contents
Where to Stay
Hotel Z
Hotel Z is a Staypineapple hotel which happens to be one of our favorite hotel chains to stay at. They have individual European style blankets that are very fluffy and amazing to cuddle into. You also get a stuffed animal dog to borrow during your stay and the adorable themed pineapple decorations add to your experience.
The location is great as it's right downtown and they have bikes for their guests to use which means you can check out even more places. We walked almost everywhere as there is plenty to do all within a few blocks of the hotel.
Manchester Grand Hyatt
This is one of the more pricey hotels and the rooms are a little small but you pay for the location. The hotel is located right on the water and by the conference center. Plus it's a short walk to Gaslamp Quarter which has great restaurants and bars.
The best part for us was the view from our room which looked right onto the water. The fitness center is also amazing and the cafe/bar in the hotel is also a big perk.
Where to Eat
American Junkie
Since Kelsey loves brunch and Phil loves OSU football we found the perfect restaurant for us. They play every OSU football game but has a full bar and a very stacked brunch menu.
There is a full bar so you can get brunch staples like mimosas which at times is bottomless. They also have avocado toast which is always a great option. On their site, they call themselves a "casual pub".
Yummy Sushi
Located near Coronado beach it has a great view of the ocean even though it's tucked away from the main street. They have great vegetarian options including avocado wontons, vegan sushi roll, and a stir fry vegetable dish. Then you can top off your meal with saki as they have both cold and hot options.
Le Parfait Paris
They have several locations located through San Diego making it easier to make sure and stop by. The main item you need to get in their macaroons as they are AMAZING. All of the flavors taste great and there are a lot to choose from.
Some flavors are more unique like lavender honey but you really can't go wrong with any of them. There are also other bakery items to choose from but it can differ by location.
IT'SUGAR
We love a good candy store and IT'SUGAR does not disappoint. They have the staples and also have a lot of throwback candies that remind you of childhood.
The best part is that they sell candy in bulk. You grab a bag, fill it up and just pay by the ounce. This way you get to pick the ones you want.
What to Do
Coronado Beach
If you go to San Diego you should probably check out a beach. Coronado is one of the more popular options. It has great views and is right by a lot of stores.
We parked in a neighborhood and enjoyed the walk, admiring all of the beautiful houses. The water is chilly but still a lot of fun to at least put your feet into.
Whale Watching
Whale watching is very popular in San Diego since it's right on the water. There are a lot of companies right along the pier but we went with one called Hornblower.
The plus side was it's a very big boat and they had a lot of good concessions. The only negative is the line to get your ticket as you buy them online then have to get an actual plastic pass before boarding.
If you plan on doing any whale watching or even boat tours remember to dress warm and bring a jacket. It's warm in San Diego but the open ocean is very windy and chilly.
We hope our travel guide for San Diego, California will give you inspiration and help you plan your next trip. The weather is great and there is always a lot to do around the city. Happy Adventuring!
