Summer in San Diego: The Highlight Reel

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Advisor - Tasha Holladay
Curated By

Tasha Holladay

  • Beaches

  • Boutique Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Family Travel

  • San Diego

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Sightseeing

A picture of a woman holding a baby near a beige mountain on top of a rocky beach at daytime.
Curator’s statement

Between wildflowers, sand dollars, surfers and a safari park, San Diego is the gift that keeps on giving. There are so many options in forms of entertainment. You could spend a lifetime exploring, and still only scratch the surface. Ideal for both young families and multi-generational alike. Excellent as a romantic jaunt. Perfect for that girl's getaway. Wonderful to wander solely on your own - San Diego is its own splendid highlight reel!

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Where to stay in San Diego

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Things to do in San Diego

A picture of two children's silhouettes while they look at the aquatic life at an aquarium.

Downtown La Jolla is a quintessential charmer. Aptly named "The Jewel", this coastal retreat features boutique shops, beautifully curated bookstores, trinket troves and art galleries. My personal favorite being Images of Nature. Stop in for both the eye candy and the deliciousness at Queenstown for lunch. Create lifetime nostalgic memories by staying at The La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, down in the heart of the La Jolla Shores, neighboring another delicious sandwich eatery: The Cheese Shop. The Birch Aquarium is world famous and sits above La Jolla Shores offering sweeping panoramic views.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa is a family's one-stop-shop. Located on a private island in Mission Bay offering spacious bungalows, five pools and a range of family-friendly amenities, this resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Paradise Point offers summer camps for the kiddos, as does the San Diego Zoo. Truly is the best of all of the worlds for each and every family member. Catch a concert at nearby Humphreys and The Shell and don't forget to take a boat ride to really soak up San Diego’s splendor.

Historic Hotel del Coronado remains a legendary beachfront resort that has been welcoming guests for over a century. Iconic, for a reason, this hotel offers a plethora of activities for families, including beach bonfires, sandcastle building lessons and outdoor movies under the stars. Kids will love exploring the hotel's sprawling grounds and playing in the surf on Coronado Beach. Grab a local bike and start your cruising adventure.

Sand Dollars make a prevalent appearance along the coastline of Coronado too!

L'Aurberge Del Mar: A beauty of a boutique hotel in the center of charming Olde Del Mar. Perfectly located across from both the beach and the Del Mar Plaza, which boasts numerous restaurants and specialty shops.

Take a morning hike at Torrey Pines, grab a quick Board and Brew sandwich and head to the beach. Or, settle in for an excellent Amuse-bouche at Monarch during their evening sunset ceremony, "cheers to me, cheers to you, here's a toast to a hell of a view". A daily ritual that brings joy to every sunset.

This hotel is bustling during the summer with both The San Diego Fair and the Del Mar Horse Races. The Beyond Van Gogh experience is a wonder to be experienced by everyone in the family. Don’t forget to catch a concert at The Sound.

The Land of Legos and the LEGOLAND Hotel are a must for any family that has an extensive "brick" collection! Dive into a whirlwind of excitement with thrilling rides, interactive attractions and incredible Lego creations. Meander through Miniland USA, where famous cities and landmarks are brought to life with countless Lego bricks.

For the ultimate Lego adventure, check into the LEGOLAND Hotel just a hop, skip and jump away from LEGOLAND California Resort. With themed rooms, nightly entertainment and early park access, this hotel is a dream destination for families who are Lego aficionados. There is also an amazing aquarium complete with lego aquatic elements woven throughout.

Places to eat & drink in San Diego

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Advisor - Tasha Holladay

Travel Advisor

Tasha Holladay

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to San Diego. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Kelsie Holt's guide, A Day in North County, San Diego: Encinitas.