The beachfront city break destination with 300 sunshine days, wild sea lions and champagne vending machines
OUR Spotlight On column uncovers the top things to see and do in the best holiday destinations, as well as lesser-known spots, in the UK and abroad.
This week, we’re shining the light on the already well-lit destination of San Diego, which sees more than 300 days of sunshine a year.
The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited, and said: “I love exploring Belmont theme park, which dates back to 1925, which felt like going back to the 50s with wooden rollercoasters and spinning ice cream rides.
“Then hop over to South Mission Beach for some insane sushi at Cannonball overlooking the ocean, before a drink in Part Time Lover, a very cosy listening bar with a vinyl shop at the back.
“Save time for Barrio Logan too, named one of the best neighborhoods in the world with fantastic independent stores and street art.”
Here are some of our other top tips.
MUST SEE/DO
You’ll want to take advantage of that glorious weather.
So head to La Jolla Cove which was recently named the best beach in the USA in the Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards.
The shoreline is home to crystal-clear waters that are ideal for snorkelling in – keep your eyes peeled for wild sea lions slouched on the rocks and sand, too.
If you’re not much of a snorkeller, grab yourself a kayak from one of the many rental stores or indulge in one of the gorgeous clifftop hiking trails that will take you along the coast.
HIDDEN GEM
Ditch the tourist attractions and crowded shores. Instead you should make a beeline for North Park, where the locals and creatives hang out.
Make sure you come thirsty as this area is crammed with independent coffee shops and some of the best craft beer in the States.
Make sure to admire the colourful murals splattered along the streets and pop into the vintage stores for a souvenir.
Take a look at the historic Observatory North Park ahead of your visit as you may time if perfectly to catch one of the regular gigs,
BEST VIEW
Take a stroll from Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, just south of Ocean Beach.
This dramatic 1.5-mile stretch of rugged coastline is one of San Diego’s most spectacular viewpoints, where you can watch the Pacific waves crashing into rock arches while the sun sets beyond the horizon.
If you’re not one for a nature walk, then Mister A’s is a cracking rooftop restaurant perched high above downtown with sweeping panoramic views across San Diego, the bay and the flight path into the city’s airport.
Cocktails are being continually shaken and the atmosphere is warm and buzzy.
RATED RESTAURANT
Exciting new openings are cropping up all over the city, including Ikaria in La Jolla which is due to open towards the end of this year.
The restaurant is inspired by the Greek island which shares its name and will feature a vibrant Mediterranean menu alongside wine tastings session and cooking classes.
For a slap-up brunch, Morning Glory is set a few streets back from the waterfront, near the Harbor View area, and stars in the Michelin guide for good reason.
Decorated in hues of candy floss pink, with mirrored furniture and a champagne vending machine, it’s got an air of Palm Springs about it.
Star dishes include the indulgent souffle pancakes and fried chicken and waffles.
BEST BARS
Swap your cocktail for a pint from one of San Diego’s independent breweries – after all, this city is known as the IPA capital of the world.
Mujeres Brew House in Barrio Logan is run entirely by women and offers a whole host of craft pours including crisp lagers and bold West Coast IPAs.
It hosts regular events, live music sessions and pop-up food stalls in a casual but lively setting.
HOTEL PICK:
The 4* Pearl Hotel in Point Loma is affordable and elegant, with retro-inspired furniture and decor that make it feel like its from another era.
It’s quickly become one of San Diego’s coolest places to stay with stylish rooms, excellent cocktails and easy access to both downtown and the beach.
Rooms cost from £115 per night based on two people sharing a double. See thepearlsd.com.