Update: about half of those improvements have been executed.
This morning, I got special security clearance and a little sticker from the TSA to tour the new Terminal 2 at San Diego International Airport. Many changes, all positive!
As of March 20, the security line that used to jam up in that round rotunda is gone. A ginormous area has opened up to the left. Breath of fresh air!
The new concessions (yes, Tender Greens!) won’t open until August, but the planned area is big enough—with plenty of eating options—to have its own name (Sunset Cove).
Between at least one set of men’s and women’s rooms there is a “pet relief” room, with a “puppy patch” where your dog can go to the bathroom (see photo). Hey, a lot of San Diegans travel with animals!
There’s also a really cool art installation, entitled Donde Esta? by Rhode Island-based artist Erik Carlson. It hangs at the entrance of every restroom. It’s a looping video of surfers riding waves. Carlson filmed at several local beaches. The video plays behind glass panes that fog up in a timed pattern. It’s very San Diego and the flushing action of the ocean water seems apropos.
Anyway, that’s what’s happening at Lindbergh Field. Enjoy your next trip!
I’m standing in a hotel lobby with a carry-on suitcase packed with three pairs of flats, two pairs of heels, a dress I hope isn’t wrinkled for TheNutcracker later, and a handful of outfits perfect for wandering a multi-story mall. Light Christmas music floats through the air, mingling with the scent of pine and the gentle hum of holiday chatter. The lobby of The Westin South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa is dotted with festive vignettes: a twinkling tree here, a cozy red-ribboned seating nook there, and even a mailbox for letters to Santa. I glance down at my boyfriend, his backpack-size suitcase at his feet, and silently question whether I truly needed all this.
Then, a couple glides past us: he in a maroon suit, she in a matching floor-length velvet dress, both stopping for a quick drink before TheNutcracker. I know instantly I made the right call.
Courtesy of Marriott The Westin South Coast Plaza
I’d heard of South Coast Plaza before—my boyfriend, a UC Irvine alumni, swears it’s the best mall in California—but I’d never had the chance to explore it for myself. By chance, the weekend doubled my birthday getaway, making it feel perfectly serendipitous.
We’re greeted by the hotel receptionist with a warmth that matches the lobby’s glow, informing us that our room awaits on the 15th floor, overlooking the city. From our window, it spreads below us, a sky of lights crowned by a towering Christmas tree. To the right, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts; to the left, the sprawling luxury of South Coast Plaza.
Courtesy of West Coast Plaza
A note to overpackers: it’s never too much. My boyfriend realizes he has nothing to wear, but luck is on our side. South Coast Plaza houses over 280 upscale shops, from Harry Winston to Zara Man, Dior Beauty, and Max Mara. We weave through boutiques and storefronts, leaving with a polished outfit for him—socks and shoes included.
Dressed and ready, I slip into my black long-sleeve, ballerina-esque dress with white heels and a red bag, while he looks freshly pressed from head to toe (thank you, H&M). The short walk to Segerstrom Center for the Arts feels like a scene from a Hallmark movie.
Courtesy of Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Segerstrom Hall, with its crimson interior and 3,000 seats, has welcomed the world’s greatest dance companies, Broadway productions, and operas since 1986. Until Dec. 23, Segerstrom Hall’s 8,500-square-foot stage transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland for The Nutcracker, where dancers soar and twirl with precision and the Tchaikovsky score fills every corner. Outside, fountains ripple alongside the Palm Collection, a curated botanical display of 87 unique palms celebrated for their diversity.
Post-performance, we attend the cast’s after-party and learn about the mall’s nearly 60-year history as a West Coast luxury landmark, its dedication to the arts, and its continuous innovations to ensure guests keep coming back for much more than just shopping.
Courtesy of Knife Pleat
The next morning, the hotel offers breakfast in the Great Room, but we make the tough decision to skip it. We somehow have bigger plans. Holiday tea at Knife Pleat, the Michelin-starred restaurant just across the way, awaits. Seasonal, beautifully plated, and thoughtfully executed, it reminds you that South Coast Plaza is as much a dining destination as it is a shopping one.
Knife Pleat’s Holiday Tea begins with caviar, pomme gaufrette, toasted brioche, and silky scrambled eggs with chives, followed by a tiered tower of savory and sweet bites—from Persian cucumber with herb cream cheese, squash buckwheat tartlet, deviled eggs with smoked trout roe, and Maine lobster éclair, to orange-glazed spice cake, peppermint macarons, pistachio financier, and tropical choux. We devoured it entirely (not as gracefully as we should have, but it was too good to care).
Courtesy of Knife Pleat
We also meet chef Tony Esnault along with his wife, restaurateur Yassmin Sarmadi. Behind the scenes, the kitchen is stacked with top-tier talent, the freshest locally sourced ingredients, and a service staff who never let our teacups run dry.
Courtesy of Visit Buena Park
Stomachs far too full, we wander the mall again, exploring the newest additions—Manolo Blahnik, Skims, Bottega Veneta—and soaking in the curated holiday displays: two story-tall Christmas trees, Santa workshop setups, and garlands lit along every railing. And, just when you think they have every store imaginable, you turn a corner and discover a niche shop you didn’t even know existed in a real-life mall.
On the drive home, I’m already plotting my next escape, maybe dinner at one of South Coast Plaza’s trendiest spots like Water Grill or a return for a concert at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. I’ll give it to my boyfriend… South Coast Plaza is an insane mall. But it’s more than that. It’s an experience that blends luxury, culture, and the quiet thrill of discovering something new, just a car or train ride from home.
Isabella Dallas is a freelance writer for San Diego Magazine and the Arts and Culture Editor at The Daily Aztec in her final year at San Diego State University. She previously worked as an editorial intern for SDM, but when she’s not writing, you can find her trying the best coffee spots in SD, devouring the latest rom-coms, and indulging in anything and everything pop culture.
From coastal retreats to inland adventures and everything in between, here are some of our favorite destinations within driving distance or a quick flight away
Living in San Diego, we’re spoiled with options when it comes to easy road trips and spontaneous weekend escapes. While everything is 30 minutes away in-town, drive a little further and you can be wine tasting in rolling hills, wandering red rock canyons, or lounging on picturesque beaches south of the border. Whether you’re after a quick reset or a full-on adventure, these destinations are within driving distance or less than a two-hour flight away.
Newport Beach, CA
Where to Stay: Pendry Newport Beach
Newport Beach in Orange County has a little bit of everything. Visitors can enjoy a mix of activities and experiences that cater to every type of traveler, including both beginner-friendly and powerful surf breaks; casual, beachside dining spots and upscale chef-driven restaurants; and designer shops dotting the coast next to mom-and-pop boutiques.
Locals heading north can check into the Pendry Newport Beach for an easy weekend getaway just two hours from San Diego. The four-star property features chic accommodations, a mix of casual and fine dining, a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and a members-only club, The Elmwood Club. The latter boasts a private restaurant and bar, a pub with golf simulator, a cabaret, a screening room, a members-only boardroom, and a rare art gallery.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Nearby, guests can also visit South Coast Plaza (about a 14-minute drive away) to enjoy fine dining, luxury brands, and world-class arts and culture experiences at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, South Coast Repertory, and the Orange County Museum of Art. Or, for those looking for outdoor adventures, Newport’s many beaches—including The Wedge (known for its massive waves)—are only about a 20-minute drive away. Families can catch the ferry to explore Balboa Island and check out classic arcade games or the ferris wheel before trying a local fave: a frozen banana.
Santa Barbara, CA
Where to Stay: Rosewood Miramar Beach
Santa Barbara feels like California’s little slice of the Mediterranean. Between its Spanish Revival architecture, sprawling vineyards, and palm-tree-lined coast, this seaside city blends easygoing SoCal charm with a refined, European edge. It’s perfect for travelers who want equal parts culture, wine, and sunshine.
Start your day in Santa Barbara, strolling down State Street and make a quick detour to the Funk Zone, a revitalized warehouse district filled with tasting rooms, surf shops, and open-air cafés. From there, head to the waterfront for kayaking, sailing, or whale watching around Stearns Wharf. For history buffs, the Old Mission Santa Barbara—founded in 1786—offers a glimpse into the region’s colonial roots.
Courtesy of Santa Barbara, CA
Base yourself at the Rosewood Miramar Beach, an elegant oceanfront resort where white cabanas, two sparkling pools, and an on-site spa make it easy to settle into vacation mode. The property also features eight restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Caruso’s, a sushi bar, and even an old-fashioned ice cream shop for post-beach treats. Off-property, grab oysters and a Bloody Mary at Brophy Bros., or enjoy local wines at Deep Sea Tasting Room right on the pier.
Courtesy of Fontainebleau Las Vegas
Las Vegas, Nevada
Where to Stay: Fontainebleau Las Vegas
While San Diegans are all too familiar with a quick weekend trip to Las Vegas, sometimes posting up at your property for the entire stay is the best way to enjoy Sin City. Leave the Ubers and walking between casinos to the birds.
Opened at the end of 2023, the Fontainebleau Las Vegas is one of The Strip’s most glamorous and, now, its tallest hotels (it clocks in at a cool 67 stories). The property feels like its own destination with 36 restaurants and bars, a casino, designer shopping, six outdoors pools with a separate 21+ section, a 55,000-square-foot spa, a full service fitness center, and LIV, the sister nightclub to its Miami location.
Courtesy of Fontainebleau Las Vegas
For dining options, check out Chyna Club, which features a special peking duck tasting menu offering five ways to enjoy this rich and savory meat. Or book a reservation at Papi Steak, set inside a nightclub-like space with an old Hollywood vibe. Everything here is a show, including the full performance (illuminated signage, a dedicated entrance song, and staff hyping up your table) any time the $1,000 tomahawk steak is ordered.
What’s nice about a stay here is that everything is modern and upscale—even the casino floor feels like a dress-up occasion. Everything about the Fontainebleau promises a more elevated and sophisticated Vegas, the kind that doesn’t require an unofficial NDA afterwards.
Cole Novak is an award-winning writer with a passion for highlighting local figures, small businesses, and nonprofits. Born and raised in San Diego, Cole is passionate about photography, surfing, art, the local food scene, and the great outdoors.
Many people view San Diego as the ultimate vacation destination. But as residents, we need our own getaways, too. Thankfully, living in San Diego means that we’re never too far from our next adventure. With costs across the country on the rise, however, we put together a list of nearby destinations that are less than four hours from San Diego and attractions that won’t break the bank once there. In fact, all activities are $30 or less, so now you really have no reason to escape the city this year. Here’s our list of budget-friendly travel destinations near San Diego:
Courtesy of the County of Los Angeles
Los Angeles
Less than two hours north of San Diego (traffic permitting, of course) sits the entertainment capital of the world: Los Angeles. In a city that’s bustling with unique and memorable experiences, it’s actually a great getaway that doesn’t have to drain your bank account.
A must-do on the budget-friendly LA itinerary is Griffith Park. With over 4,000 expansive acres, Griffith Park is chock-full of hiking trails and picnic spots. One of the park’s hotspots is Griffith Observatory, an iconic landmark that is free to visit. Close by is Runyon Canyon, a popular hiking destination that is frequented by celebrities and known for its views of the Hollywood sign. LA is also home to a range of museums that offer free admission, including The Broad, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the California African American Museum.
If you’re looking for a more one-of-a-kind experience, consider checking out the swan pedal boats in Echo Park that cost $13 per hour. Then, just outside of LA is the well-known Huntington Library and Botanic Garden that features a vast library, art museum, and 16 themed gardens. Adult tickets cost $29, while children four and under can visit for free.
Courtesy of Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica
Just west of LA is Santa Monica, another easily accessible city that evokes images of sunshine, beach days, and a laid-back attitude. This makes it a great place to spend time if you’re looking for money-saving activities.
One of the city’s most visited landmarks is Santa Monica State Beach. With over three miles of sandy space, beachgoers can enjoy an inexpensive day lounging in the sun or playing in the water. The iconic Santa Monica Pier also offers plenty of affordable fun, from amusement park rides and arcade games to good old-fashioned people watching. Want to take in more picturesque views? Make the short drive over to the Venice Canals and enjoy a serene walk along the historic waterways.
Courtesy of Catalina Express
Catalina Island
If you’re looking for an island getaway, then Catalina Island might be the answer you’re looking for. It is one of California’s Channel Islands and offers a welcome blend of adventure and relaxation.
While a one-way ferry ticket does cost more than $30, once you’re on the island, there are plenty of free and reasonably-priced activities. Whether you bring your own gear or rent it, Catalina Island offers great opportunities to snorkel and spend time in the water, or simply just sunbathe on one of the many beaches. For ticketed options, visit Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden that features plants that naturally grow on one or more of the Channel Islands and nowhere else in the world. Adult admission costs $14, with discounts available for seniors, children, students, and veterans. Then, take the family to Mini Golf Gardens where adult tickets are priced at $15 and a child’s ticket costs $12. If museum culture is more your vibe, check out the Catalina Museum for Art & History. Tickets are priced at $12 for adults, while admission for children 15 years and younger is free with a paid adult ticket.
Courtesy of Kayak
Julian
Nestled in the Cuyamaca Mountains is Julian, a charming town that’s overflowing with personality. Located just over an hour east of San Diego, it’s an accessible and peaceful destination away from the hustle-and-bustle of the city.
One of the things Julian is known for most is pie. A slice from Mom’s Pie House costs less than $8, while a majority of the full pies from Julian Pie Company are under $30. For some good family fun, head to Julian Farm and Orchard where, no matter the time of year, you can enjoy budget-friendly activities. Seasonal offerings include daffodils in early spring, berries in the summer, apples in late summer, and pumpkins in the fall, with farm pricing at $5 for general admission and add-ons available. For a truly distinctive experience, look into Eagle Mining Co., with tours priced at $15 for adults and $8 for children aged 5 to 11. If you’re still looking for more plans to fill your day, wander down Julian’s idyllic main street or drive out to nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.
Jordyn Berg is a freelance writer whose favorite topics include food and travel. A Pacific Northwest native, she delights in exploring the best of San Diego, by searching for hidden gems, experiencing must-try restaurants, and soaking in the city’s amazing views.
For Executive Chef Emily Brubaker, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa feels like home. She grew up just a mile-and-a-half away from the 400-acre property and fondly recalls walking the golf course perimeter as a kid. Though her ambitions led her away from San Diego for nearly two decades in which she honed her craft in some of the highest of high-profile Las Vegas restaurants—including triple Michelin-starred Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand—they ultimately brought her back to North County.
Courtesy of Omni La Costa
Today, the classically French-trained chef, who’s fresh off a victory on NBC’s Yes, Chef!, judged by Martha Stewart and José Andrés, oversees Omni La Costa Resort & Spa’s seven distinct dining concepts. Her goal is to elevate the resort’s culinary program with her creative, hyperlocal ingredient-driven approach while maintaining the Spanish- inspired flavors and fresh California coastal cuisine that are the bedrock of its culinary identity.
“The San Diego food scene is really growing, and in North County alone, it’s really exploded in the last five years,” Brubaker says. “There are Michelin stars, beautiful tasting menus, craft bakers, and all this food—when I was growing up in La Costa, it was fish tacos. Now there are really cool things popping up, and I’m so happy to be here to see where it’s going to go.”
Brubaker gives chefs de cuisine at each individual restaurant autonomy, however, her influence is evident across the resort.
For example, lobby restaurant Bar Traza serves as Omni La Costa’s culinary centerpiece and features bold Spanish flavors in a lively, social atmosphere. Brubaker overhauled the menu to be more consistent and centered on casual bites with that signature vibe. Think smoky paprika, vibrant citrus, and Spanish meats and cheeses.
At VUE, the focus is on seasonal offerings, California coastal cuisine, and Baja-inspired dishes. She and Chef de Cuisine Cameron Dixon change the menu biannually, which heading into summer, will highlight farm-fresh produce and hyperlocal ingredients—the resort even has its own herb garden and honeybee hives.
Courtesy of Omni La Costa
Poolside dining options are leaning into the country’s 250th this summer with a selection of classic American dishes with an Omni La Costa twist. And Bob’s Steak & Chop House (Brubaker is a trained butcher) offers a classic steakhouse experience with elevated service.
The chef and company also plan menus for special events at the resort where her creativity can really shine. For an upcoming National Ski Association dinner, the banquet hall will be transformed into an Alpine-themed winter wonderland complete with a snow machine, savory sausages, and melty, decadent raclette. A recent dinner was built around the Carlsbad Flower Fields and each course was matched to a color of ranunculus (Did you know pink dragonfruit are grown in North County? You do now.).
“It’s my zen to be in the kitchen playing with food,” Brubaker says.
Omni La Costa’s culinary program is a key part of the resort experience. And with Brubaker’s leadership, it’s becoming a draw for visitors and locals alike.
“These aren’t just hotel restaurants, these are restaurants that you should go to. They’re destinations, and I’m really hoping for the future that’s where we’re going,” Brubaker says.
Courtesy of Omni La Costa
Brubaker is also channeling her experience on Yes, Chef! into the culture at Omni La Costa—more emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, empowering her staff to share constructive critiques, and embracing different perspectives. Alongside her leadership role, Brubaker has become an advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry, serving as chief ambassador for the Burnt Chef Project and serves on the Board of Advisors for the Apex Culinary Program, where she mentors and develops future talent.
I was never a traditional vacationer. I had no interest in all-inclusive resorts or curated itineraries. I never wanted to just “get away and relax.” I felt the humdrum of corporate office life to be perfectly predictable and routine, thank you very much. In my time off, I craved spontaneity and exploration. Luckily, my husband Troy is the same. He travelled a ton by nature of his work, and we turned each of those assignments into mini explorations of American culture, drawn to discovering local folklore and pockets of neighborhood quirks.
We wandered tiny towns outside of Bloomington, Indiana while he was on filming breaks for a show. We stayed in Paradise, CA for a few days after a speaking engagement at his alma mater to explore how the town rebounded after a devastating wildfire. We extended our stay in Miami after an emceeing event and had a friend of a friend of a friend we never met take us on a food-truck tour through parts of the city I’d have never seen otherwise. Even our honeymoon was a road trip through California.
Then, we had a baby and became business owners. Three years passed without a road trip or flight to the middle of “we’ll find out when we get there.” The only thing all-inclusive I was researching was preschools. I am not complaining—merely offering context for those who can relate to doom-scrolling to-do lists. So last month, when the chores, color-coordinated calendars, and general exhaustion that comes with being a working parent in America had caught up, I felt myself longing for the weekends when we explored nowhere together.
However, time is scarce, and demands are demanding. So, we decided to just ghost our lives for 36 hours. We called in support, put our phones on Do Not Disturb, and headed to the exotic land of downtown San Diego. Here’s the itinerary we followed.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Saturday, 3 p.m. – Check-In
The Pendry is a pheromone. Leather-wrapped elevators. Lobby air that smells what I imagine Tom Ford’s private sauna to smell like. Windows that frame the city like a movie still.
From our room, we had a full view of downtown, which was abuzz with some sort of line-dancing flash mob happening three blocks away. In the lobby, we spotted a group of local news reporters dressed like off-duty cowgirls, there to celebrate Heather Lake’s 40th. We got gifted Moët coins, which felt a little gimmicky… until we were in our room with two tiny bottles, and then it felt chic. It was quiet enough to hear our own thoughts.
I sat on the bed with my sunglasses on and enjoyed one of the few moments of responsibility-free zen we’d had since taking over San Diego Magazineand giving birth to our son in the same seven-day span. I looked at Troy and said, “We could leave now and this would still be worth it.”
Local Tip: If you’re coming from North County or East County, leave extra time to dodge the I-5’s 3 p.m. personality disorder.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Saturday, 5:30 p.m. – Dinner at Provisional Kitchen
Provisional is marble-on-marble, oversized olive trees, a mood somewhere between Roman banquet and Soho farmhouse. Big windows letting that San Diego sun in. If it weren’t a restaurant, it would make a perfectly elaborate European butterfly exhibit.
I asked Troy for his food picks, or as he says, “things I’d recommend to friends I like.” Here’s what he suggests ordering:
Hamachi Crudo
Perfect-temp slices of yellowtail (not too cold, which’ll kill a good sushi-grade fish) with Sungold tomatoes, pickled fennel, citrus vinaigrette, chile oil, and green onion. The fennel makes it.
Squid Ink Linguini
Squid ink pasta can be hit or miss, usually missing when the ink tastes a tad too oceanic. But this is well-done, with a Sungold tomato sauce that’s light, bright, and a tad creamy (Sungolds are the superior tomato); pan-seared squid; and two lumps of fresh uni.
Courtesy of the Rady Shell
Saturday, 7:30 p.m. – Trombone Shorty at The Rady Shell
We walked to The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, which is one of San Diego’s best ideas in the last decade—a waterfront amphitheater that makes live music feel like a religious experience. Half picnic, half al fresco opera house. If you haven’t made it to a Trombone Shorty show, run, don’t walk. I first saw the New Orleans jazz hero at BAM in New York years ago and it was transformational. He is magnetic, a firehose of funk and soul and charisma. The show will shake the dust off your soul.
Local Tip: Walk there. Seriously. Parking is expensive and soul-sucking. If you can’t, take a scooter. And always bring a blanket or a jacket. The magic of Shell shows is being surrounded by water with a sun that’s clocking out for the day. But that means it gets nippy.
Saturday, 10 p.m. – Asleep; no notes.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Sunday, 9:30 a.m. – The Entire Breakfast Menu & an IV
Woke up at 5:30 a.m. Blinked and must have dozed off. I came to at 10 to the sound of Troy announcing, “The IV therapy guys are here.” Mom guilt was starting to kick in, so I sent a video to our son and tried to remember the meme I saw about fastening your own seatbelt first.
Troy had ordered the entire breakfast menu. This is not hyperbole. The whole. Damn. Thing.
I got the “Hangover IV,” which felt strange to do while eating a pizza for breakfast, but it promised hydration and vitamins. I fully anticipated feeling pumped-up enough to run for office after, but honestly it mostly just made me cold. The real star of the show is the menu of in-room spa treatments you can add on. The spa director came with a suitcase that I can only describe as “Mary Poppins borrowing Gwyneth Paltrow’s carry-on luggage.” The standouts for me:
KNESKO Face Masks
Wild, jelly-like masks infused with crushed gemstones and Reiki energy. They go on cool and heavy. My face felt like it had gone through a bankruptcy and came out richer.
Therabody TheraFace
Basically the Tesla of skincare gadgets. This TikTok-viral Zorro mask retails for $650 and has more heads than Medusa—microcurrent, LED light, percussive therapy. It’s what would happen if a facial roller went to space and returned enlightened.
Local Tip: Aging is okay, but it’s fun to pretend like we’re in control.
And our room service picks:
Claire’s Pick: Breakfast Pizza
Bacon, Berkshire cream, Parmesan, spinach, over-easy eggs. You deserve it.
Troy’s Pick: Eggs Benedict
The smoked ham and that hollandaise will cure things, undo knots in your happiness.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Sunday, 11 a.m. – Spa & Meditate
The moment I’d been waiting for. What a perfectly cooked birria taco is to Troy, a Swedish massage is to me. And, damn, they have done a nice job with the spa. It’s a meditative bunker that manages to be both moody and immaculate. You can book outdoor massages in what looks like a micro wellness jungle, but we opted for a couple’s massage indoors.
Local Tip: Request that the providers dim the lights. The standard setting lets in more sun than I’m used to at a spa.
After the massage, we did a session in “The Mind-Sync Harmonic Wellness Lounger.” You sit in zero-gravity chairs and choose from a selection of tracks with names like “Soul Soak” and “Stress Release.” I opted for one called “Emotional Release.” I don’t practice meditation regularly, so I anticipated feeling uncomfortable, but I was ready to ascend the ladder of consciousness. I added red light therapy goggles because that felt like the right thing to do at the time—until the goggles began vibrating in sync with the sound therapy headset, rattling my skull. If you ever wanted to know what it’s like to have Daft Punk play a set in your sinuses, I’d recommend this. After two minutes, I took off the goggles and started over, leaning into the ambient pulsing of the sounds. I blinked and 20 minutes had passed.
I didn’t reach enlightenment, but I did feel like a human who had been debugged.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Sunday, 12 p.m. – Pool Vibes & Tom Schwartz Sighting
The elevator doors opened, and Tom Schwartz (yes, that one) walked by looking like he had just hit the gym. It was officially peak San Diego: perfect sun, perfect playlist, not a single person trying too hard. There’s something beautifully democratic about the Pendry pool. It’s got just enough scene to feel alive, but not so much that you feel like you need to be verified to get a chair. Rent a daybed. Do it. Order the rosé.
Courtesy of Pendry Hotels
Sunday, 1:30 p.m. – Nason’s Beer Hall for a Mic-Drop Brunch
On the way out, we hit Nason’s Beer Hall. It’s a sports bar in form, sleeper food hit in spirit. We expected more from the cocktails than the food. But it was shockingly good beer hall grub. I would have lost a lot of hours of my life in my 20s there. Apparently, they just reinvested into the kitchen and menu and overhauled the program.
According to Troy, the standouts were the Wagyu corn dog with miso mustard and chives; the birria grilled cheese (with crispy cheese melted on the outside of the bread and dipping jus); the buffalo fried chicken sliders on brioche with blue cheese and butter pickles (there are many fancy fried chicken sandwich joints, but this one would beat most of them in a blind tasting); and the “Money Buzz-ness,” a riff on an espresso martini with Ketel One, banana liqueur, Skrewball peanut butter whiskey, and espresso. Like a peanut-butter banana whiskey sandwich.
Courtesy of Visit California
In conclusion, sometimes the best escape is to just stay
We didn’t fly to a foreign country or rent a Jeep in the desert. But we did find our rhythm again. We laughed. We danced. We slept. We remembered who we were before the bottomless inbox and 24/7 chores.
Sometimes you don’t need a passport or a week off. You just need 36 hours and the guts to ghost your life for a minute.
Longtime popular cruise ship destination, the port of Ensenada has been known more for its animated tourist bars and trinket shops than as a cultural and culinary hub—but all that is changing. These days, the city is holding its own against Tijuana, Valle de Guadalupe, and other nearby food hot spots. A population of young professionals, many who work in the wineries and fine dining restaurants of Valle, are choosing to live in the more affordable Ensenada and making it their own with moody bars, contemporary restaurants, and a slew of new specialty shops.
Courtesy of Baja California Tourism Ministry
The Plaza Santo Tomás is a great example of this new energy. Built originally for Santo Tomás winery’s warehouses, the plaza and its buildings have been converted into a dozen or more locales that include the tiny Loca mezcal bar, high-end fishmongers De Garo Pescados Y Mariscos, the Tanto Santo pizza kitchen, and local cheese shop Fromagerie. La Morocha Resta Bar is a collaboration between some of the region’s biggest names in food, including David Castro Hussong, chef of Valle’s famed Fauna restaurant.
Here, comfort food like grilled cheese or arroz a la tumbada is served in a casual, Sunday-dinner-with-the-family ambiance. On the other side of the plaza is La Bête Noire, a cocktail bar and listening room dropped into a space that looks more like a secondhand shop. In the dimly lit basement speakeasy, you can sip a negroni and vibe to electronic beats.
Off the plaza, Ojo Cameleón—opened in late 2024— is filled with locals who come for the craft cocktails and guest DJs that spin all night long on the weekends. The bar Matilda is a mellower scene with outdoor tables and a cozy dining room.
Opened in 2021, it may have the best cocktails in town, with both classic and inventive options. Try the La Margaret with gin, St. Germain liqueur, sake, watermelon radish, rice vinegar, and mirin. The bar also serves a concise menu of delicious tapas and small plates.
Sakanaya Murajiro is a brand-new project highlighting the bounty of local seafood as well as imported delicacies from Japan, with an omakase menu designed by chef and owner Daichi Sato. A hospitality crowd favorite, Da Toni has become the restaurant of chefs and sommeliers on their night off. The menu weaves together dishes from northern Italy and the local influences of Baja—think tagliarini with sea urchin or calamari in anchovy and chiltepín chile sauce.
Courtesy of Baja California Tourism Ministry Bluefin tuna and prosciutto crudo from Da Toni.
The flavor of Ensenada cannot be truly appreciated with just the new and exciting. Seafood salad tostadas at La Guerrerense or a few oysters on the half shell at El Güero are required eating here. Also, stop by Hussong’s Cantina for a margarita and a heartfelt bolero from the restaurant’s musical trio, a 133-year tradition. If you’re open to making a meal yourself, stroll through the city’s tiny fish market that sets up near the waterfront for fresh-from-the-sea abalone, shrimp, and mahi-mahi.
In contrast to the luxury hotels in nearby Valle, you will find places in Ensenada that fit the more laidback style and lower price point of the city. There are several fantastic Airbnbs, but for something a little more personalized and cozy, stay at La Villa De Adelina, a small, five-room boutique hotel with both a bar and bakery on site.
Hotel Punta Morro on the waterfront has dramatic seafront views with chic, modern décor. For some nostalgia, the midcentury Las Rosas Hotel & Spa with its pale pink façade has been lovingly maintained throughout the years and draws back many returning visitors.
Courtesy of Azteca Express
Ensenada serves as an incredible base for exploring the nearby vineyards, but it also has its own collection of attractions. From mid-December to April, whales swim and play along the shores, and charter boats offer a chance to catch them in action. For active travelers, there’s sport fishing, kayaking, surfing, and hiking along the coast. Though Ensenada’s downtown is dominated by the waterfront, several nearby beaches are perfect for a picnic.
Estero Beach is mellow for swimming and paddle-boarding, while the shorelines near La Bufadora are great for strolling. Northern San Miguel Beach has a volcanic rock shoreline and waves that make it a top surf spot. And, now, it’s even easier to go from San Diego to Ensenada—the Azteca Express, a ferry traveling between the two cities, officially launched last month.
Lydia Carey is a travel and food writer based in Mexico City, who has spent the last 20 years traveling the Americas and sampling its bounty. She has been published widely online and in print and is the founder of the Mexico City Streets tour company.
Visit Tuolumne County to Find the Unmistakable Spirit of Fall and Winter
Take a refreshing trip to Tuolumne County, where your senses will get their fill and your wallet will stay full with off-peak accommodation prices
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It’s that time when all of your senses are awakened by the unmistakable feel, sights, tastes, smells, and sounds of fall and winter. Experience them all in Tuolumne County in Northern California! Discover a different side of Yosemite National Park in the quieter and less crowded destinations. Watch as history comes to life with local tales and vibrant colors in Gold Country. Temperatures are dropping, but cooler adventures are found on the trails and slopes of the High Sierra and at unique events throughout the County.
Take a refreshing trip to Tuolumne County, where your senses will get their fill and your wallet will stay full with off-peak accommodation prices.
Find Serenity in Less-Crowded Yosemite National Park and Surrounding Area
Yosemite
Yosemite has quieted down, and now’s the time for national park adventures and new explorations. Find yourself in awe as you take in the sights among the giant sequoias backdropped by colors of maples and dogwoods and maybe some glistening snow in the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. Or, hike around stunning Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
Wander in Groveland, outside of Yosemite, and enjoy a warming pumpkin spice latte or a one-of-a-kind seasonal brew. Feel like shopping? Pop into some of the unique shops in town to find gifts and seasonal decor to bring home.
Discover an Era Past in Gold Country
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Explore Gold Country starting with the nooks of Columbia State Historic Park, and let your eyes and nose lead you into candle, candy, and provisional shops where their seasonal creations will warm your heart. Listen for clanging from the blacksmith shop or clinking of the authentic stagecoach as it enters town.
In nearby Jamestown, become immersed by the smells, sounds, and sights of Wild West railroad culture at Railtown 1897 State Historic Park, and stroll down Main Street where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and inns housed in picturesque historic buildings.
In Downtown Sonora, you’ll find many shops and restaurants located in historic buildings; as you step inside, you’ll see some interiors are left to show the architecture of 150 years ago. Also, take in a show at the Gold Country’s premier theater company, Sierra Repertory Theatre.
Reach the Mountain Tops in the High Sierra
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High Sierra adventures await where brisk mountain breezes are the perfect excuse for a cozy sweater. Take a hike along the Pinecrest Lake Loop Trail, and catch unreal views of changing leaves set against rugged granite mountains. Feel the invigorating wind in your face as you ski, snowboard, or snow tube down glorious mountain sides.
Visit the nostalgic mountain town of Twain Harte and enjoy a relaxing stroll to find some fun fall fashions or handy cooking gadgets to help with upcoming holiday cooking or gift giving.
Stir Up Your Seasonal Cheer
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Seasonal cheer is found in every town throughout Tuolumne County. Events include Fall Fest at Indigeny Reserve in Sonora and Harvest Festifall in Columbia State Historic Park in October. The night-time Sonora Christmas Parade, the night after Thanksgiving, and the sights and activities of Christmas Town Sonora delight all ages. The Polar Express departs Railtown 1897 State Historic Park for the North Pole on weekends following Thanksgiving.
Plan Your Trip to Tuolumne County
Rush Creek Lodge
You’ll need a place to stay during your visit. Pick from mountain resorts, historic inns, cozy vacation cabins (perfect for gathering the family), distinctive B&Bs, and full-service RV parks.
Start planning your vacation with the help of travel inspiration and information delivered directly to your mailbox. Request your FREE Tuolumne County Travel Guide at VisitTuolumne.com today. Or, call the Visit Tuolumne County team at 209-533-4420.
