Nothing is more satisfying than finding a diamond in the rough — a hidden gem that’s yet to be discovered by the masses. This is all the more satisfying in a city like San Diego, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southern California. If you’re looking for a secret spot where you can take your significant other and impress them with your insider knowledge, a romantic dinner cruise San Diego is one of the best bets. Dinner cruises offer the best of everything — gorgeous city views, the peaceful appeal of the ocean, and a delectable meal that’s catered by the best culinary talent in San Diego.
Living Like a Local
The only thing better than discovering a secret spot is knowing the popular places where all the locals hang out. There are many of these places in San Diego, but one of the most popular is Old Town. Old Town is located in the heart of San Diego’s historic district, and it’s known as the site where the first European settlers arrived in California. Although it’s a popular destination for tourists, it’s also home to many haunts where locals like to hang out and have fun. This is especially true if you’re on the hunt for the best bars and restaurants in San Diego.
There is much debate regarding what eatery claims the title of the best restaurant in Old Town, but there are several top contenders. Casa De Reyes features delicious food, but the ambiance is its true appeal. Enjoy your meal by fire pits or in the garden area of the restaurant. If you’re looking for a quicker, more casual option — like a taco stand — try Las Brasas. This spot’s menu is renowned for its array of unique choices as well as the high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
Best Hidden Beaches & Parks
Of course, you can’t go to San Diego without visiting the city’s beautiful beaches. You could hit the obvious tourist spots like Ocean Beach or Pacific Beach — and to be fair, they’re popular for a reason. If you’d rather seek out the road less traveled — or beach less traveled, in this case — these spots won’t be the best bet. Instead, you should look for secluded beaches such as La Jolla Cove Beach or Swami’s Beach in Encinitas. Both of these offer a quieter experience than many of the usually-packed shores found elsewhere in San Diego.
There are plenty of parks that offer a respite from San Diego city life, too. Miramar Overlook Park is one such spot, and visitors say that it’s quiet, secluded, and sparsely populated. Some of the top activities you can enjoy at the park or the beach include biking, hiking, or indulging in a picnic. These are great ideas for tourists looking to take in the slower side of San Diego, but they’re also great San Diego staycation ideas for local residents, too. Discover everything this city has to offer — including all of its hidden gems. read more about on this story