San Diego is an thrilling and vibrant place that is stuffed with lovely nature, unbelievable tradition, thrilling nightlife, and extra. It’s the good place for any trip or getaway, and is very thrilling if you select to dig deep and discover the hidden gems in San Diego.
And this metropolis is full of fantastic hidden gems! These embody superior little eateries, quirky museums, and beautiful seashores and parks that only a few individuals know to take a look at.
That stated, increasingly persons are discovering that San Diego is extra than simply the handful of sights that made town well-known. The consequence? A latest surge within the quantity of people that select to RV in San Diego as a way to keep longer, discover the key nooks and crannies, and actually get to know this unbelievable SoCal metropolis.
Wish to hop on the bandwagon? We will’t say we blame you. Right here’s every part you’ll want to know to plan your good RVing in San Diego getaway.
RVing in San Diego
As we talked about above, persons are discovering that RVing is the right method to see San Diego. It’s because RVing provides you the liberty to camp completely anyplace, affording you the chance to take a look at lesser-known areas. It is usually way more reasonably priced than lodge stays, which means you possibly can keep longer within the metropolis and reside a bit extra like a neighborhood, supplying you with the prospect to essentially join with town.
In fact, should you’re going RVing in San Diego, you will have an RV to deliver alongside. When you’ve got an RV of your individual, that’s nice—you must deliver that. Nevertheless, those that don’t already personal RVs ought to look into reserving a rental RV. This can permit them the liberty and adaptability of RVing with out the trouble of proudly owning a trailer or motorhome.
Unsure the place to park an RV in San Diego? Under are a few of our favourite RV parks within the metropolis.
Escondido RV Resort
Escondido RV Resort is positioned very close to all the enjoyable San Diego has to supply. It presents full-hookup websites, well-manicured grounds, a pool, a playground, and easy accessibility to a metropolis park.
San Diego Metro KOA
We all the time love KOA campgrounds, particularly when touring with youngsters or canines. The San Diego Metro KOA isn’t any exception. This park options full-hookup websites, a playground, a canine park, a pool, a leaping pillow, and extra.
Campland on the Bay
Lastly, we should point out Campland on the Bay. Set proper on Mission Bay, that is the place to go for a seashore getaway. Right here you’ll discover waterfront tenting, onsite video games, eating, water sports activities, and extra—all simply minutes from the magic of San Diego.
Hidden Seashores
Okay, everyone knows that the seashore is a must-do when in SoCal. Sadly, the seashores in and round San Diego are usually very crowded. This may be enjoyable typically, however if you simply need a quiet and enjoyable seashore day, it may be irritating.
The excellent news? There are secret seashores which can be hidden gems in San Diego. These seashores are hardly ever crowded they usually provide all the identical magnificence you’d discover at any of the opposite, extra standard seashores.
Sundown Cliffs
Whereas not precisely a sandy seashore the place you possibly can play, Sundown Cliffs is a completely attractive place to benefit from the ocean. Because the identify suggests, this place is house to a lot of dramatic cliffs that present the right place to perch and watch the sundown over the water.
Whale sightings are widespread on this space, and sea caves, sea arches, tide swimming pools, and different attention-grabbing options make this a beautiful place to discover and {photograph}.
Windansea Seashore
If browsing is extra your fashion, contemplate heading to Windansea Seashore. This seashore options extra lovely surroundings, in addition to wonderful surf breaks brought on by underwater reefs. It’s an incredible place to deliver your surfboard or boogie board, however many individuals select to easily stroll the seashore, take photographs, and take within the views reasonably than really stepping into the water.
In case you’re going to go to a much less populated seashore, you need to go in figuring out that sure facilities in all probability gained’t be accessible. Carry your individual snacks, water, seashore chairs, umbrella, and towels, and be able to rinse off with bottled water on the finish of the day if showers are unavailable.
Neighborhood Explorations
Like many cities, San Diego is house to a lot of distinct neighborhoods, each with its personal distinctive character that’s price exploring for your self. Actually, trying out these sorts of neighborhoods is without doubt one of the greatest methods to get to know a spot!
These are the San Diego neighborhoods we advocate adventuring by way of.
North Park
Beer lovers will admire the North Park neighborhood, which claims to be the “greatest beer neighborhood within the nation.” Why? As a result of the epicenter of this neighborhood is full of such institutions as Mike Hess Brewing, North Park Brewing, and Thorn St. Beer. You too can discover craft cocktails at locations like Seven Grand and 619 Spirits.
Along with loads of fantastic drinks, you’ll additionally discover a number of superior native eateries and small retailers in North Park. Reside theater and music performances additionally occur regularly right here.
South Park
Head a bit south and also you’ll end up within the aptly named South Park neighborhood. This space places a stronger emphasis on meals, with unbelievable eating places that provide seasonal natural greens, sustainable meat merchandise, and inventive menu gadgets.
A few of our favourite South Park eating places embody Station Tavern, the place you possibly can dine in an previous trolley station, in addition to Buona Forchetta, the place you possibly can seize genuine Neapolitan pizza. We additionally admire the native espresso firms, comparable to Darkish Horse Espresso Roasters, who serve up some sinfully scrumptious espresso.
Native artwork and boutique retailers additionally play a giant function within the character of South Park, which means discovering galleries to browse and locations to buy native items are each a cinch.
Barrio Logan
Each North Park and South Park have an arts scene that’s price trying out. That stated, Barrio Logan identifies as San Diego’s “hidden hub for artwork,” and that is fairly obvious as quickly as you arrive.
This art-centric neighborhood options colourful murals round each nook in Chicano Park, and the park performs host to cultural occasions all year long. Previous warehouse areas have been taken over by native artists and have artwork exhibitions and music performances, and the culinary arts are current within the type of Mexican meals and glorious espresso.
Unsure the place to seize meals and drinks? We advocate Las Cuatro Milpas for genuine Mexican meals, and Ryan Bros Espresso for a pick-me-up.
Eclectic Museums
We are going to by no means tire of exploring uncommon, eclectic, and area of interest museums, and San Diego is the best place to just do that. There are a selection of humorous little museums to select from and each has an attention-grabbing story to share.
Listed below are a few of our favourite museums that we consider are hidden gems in San Diego.
Museum of Us
Previously often known as Museum of Man, Balboa Park’s Museum of Us is a thought-provoking spot. The museum options reveals that put the human expertise beneath a microscope and encourage guests to problem their very own opinions and views.
Present reveals embody PostSecret (an exploration of secrets and techniques), Residing with Animals (providing ideas on our relationship with animals), and BEERology (follows the evolution of beer and human tales linked to the drink).
That is the place to go to find out about the best way people suppose and to see the world from one other particular person’s standpoint.
The Whaley Home
Constructed within the 1850s by Thomas Whaley, the Whaley Home is a superb place to be taught in regards to the historical past of Previous City San Diego or have a mystical expertise.
The home was the best within the space for a few years and served because the gathering place for your entire San Diego neighborhood from 1857 till the early twentieth century. It went from being a house to a industrial theater, to a county courthouse, after which to a bilingual common retailer. Lately, it’s thought of by many to be America’s most haunted home.
Whether or not you’re a historical past buff or somebody in search of a thrill, this museum needs to be in your to-do checklist.
Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum
Are you a fan of miniatures? In that case, the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum is the place for you. This distinctive museum options an infinite variety of functioning miniature machines.
Right here, you’ll discover teeny-tiny engines that truly run, miniature vehicles with working engines and transmissions, extremely detailed itsy-bitsy ships, and flying mannequin airplanes, amongst different wonderful miniatures.
Wandering the gathering is awe-inspiring, and people who admire consideration to element are certain to be particularly amazed.
Pure Wonders
No go to to San Diego is full with out some out of doors adventures. Clearly, you’ll need to go to the seashore areas talked about above, however we additionally advocate trying out the pure areas beneath. Each are hidden gems in San Diego and are nicely price your time.
Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve
Positioned on the coast, the Torrey Pines State Pure Reserve is without doubt one of the wildest stretches of land on the California coast, making it a great place for mountain climbing, wildlife watching, and escaping from town.
The dramatic cliffs are lined in desert brush and cacti, and overlooking the intense blue waters of the ocean makes for a fantastic setting that you just gained’t quickly overlook.
For mountain climbing, we advocate Razor Level Path. Simply two-thirds of a mile lengthy, this path is comparatively straightforward and offers glorious views of the sandstone gorge. From this path you can even entry the Yucca Level Overlook, a path that’s nicely price mountain climbing within the spring when you possibly can see the yucca vegetation flowering.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
The proper instance of the California desert, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a beautiful place to get outdoors and do some exploring. Stroll by way of a slot canyon, marvel on the park’s badlands, or calm down in an oasis. Hold a watch out for animals comparable to horned lizards, jackrabbits, bighorn sheep, and when mud rolls round, coyotes.
If you wish to hike this park, we advocate The Slot, a 2.3-mile hike by way of a slot canyon that’s really unforgettable. Fonts Level is one other good choose, particularly should you’re in search of good views.
Irrespective of the place you go mountain climbing within the San Diego space, keep in mind to pack loads of water and costume in light-weight clothes, because the climate can get extraordinarily scorching. A large brimmed hat might help provide some safety from the solar, and sunscreen is a should.
Historic Websites
The historical past of San Diego is wealthy and extremely attention-grabbing. Because of this, we extremely advocate discovering no less than a few hidden gem historic websites so as to add to your journey itinerary. Not solely will this let you be taught one thing new, it’ll additionally assist you hook up with the place.
Previous Level Loma Lighthouse
The Previous Level Loma Lighthouse is one historic website that’s nicely price visiting. Positioned in Cabrillo Nationwide Monument, this lighthouse was first lit in 1855. Sadly, the placement of the lighthouse meant the sunshine was usually obscured by heavy fog. Due to this fact, a brand new lighthouse changed this one simply 36 years later in 1891.
Right this moment, the lighthouse has been restored to its Eighteen Eighties look and acts as an academic website, internet hosting ranger-led talks.
Villa Montezuma
A fully attractive historic house with a really attention-grabbing previous, Villa Montezuma is a superb place to go to when you’ve got any curiosity in historical past in any respect.
The home was initially constructed for world-famous Jesse Shepard as a “Palace of the Arts” in 1887, and has since been handed from one proprietor to the subsequent. Nevertheless, one factor has stayed the identical: This attractive house started as, and all the time shall be, a murals in and of itself. It options gorgeous stained glass home windows in addition to some unbelievable structure.
Right this moment, company can tour the house and be taught all about its design in addition to the historical past behind it.
Native Delicacies
One factor you must do each time you go to a brand new place? Strive the native delicacies, in fact! We’ve talked about a number of of our favourite native eateries, however we’ve saved a few our high picks (and actually, among the greatest hidden gems in
San Diego) particularly for this part of our article.
Tacos El Gordo
Mexican meals is for sure the stand-out meals in San Diego. Due to this fact, it ought to come as no shock that we selected Tacos El Gordo to be on the high of this checklist.
This unassuming taco store options genuine Tijuana-style tacos which can be certain to blow your thoughts. Our favourite? The adobada tacos, which have gained awards and in our opinion are a must-try meals whereas within the space.
Oscar’s Mexican Seafood
Some individuals don’t notice it, however Mexican meals and seafood really go hand-in-hand, and once they’re mixed, they create magic. Head to Oscar’s Mexican Seafood to see what we’re speaking about. This place serves up fish tacos which can be to die for, and their spicy shrimp Torta de Oscar is one for the books. You may even get an superior fish breakfast burrito should you’re craving a filling morning meal!
Hidden Nightlife
We talked about the superior bar-hopping scene in North Park earlier. Nevertheless, that is removed from the one place to seek out wonderful nightlife in San Diego. Actually, we’d by no means have the ability to checklist all the superior locations to get out after darkish within the metropolis. As a substitute, we’ll checklist our two favourite hidden gems in San Diego.
The Grass Skirt
A speakeasy tiki bar in Pacific Seashore in San Diego, The Grass Skirt is a laid-back native hang around that’s certain to make you are feeling welcome straight away. Right here you’ll discover quite a lot of Polynesian-inspired small plates and drinks, occasional hula performances, and a cool vibe that’s good for these seeking to have a superb time.
Well mannered Provisions
A extra trendy nightlife spot, Well mannered Provisions reminds one among an apothecary, making it an attention-grabbing place to seize a drink or two. The truth that the bar is about in a big, open atrium means you’ll by no means really feel too cramped throughout your go to, and the retro really feel of the area is certainly cool. We additionally admire the big wine assortment, beer assortment, and distinctive signature cocktails served right here.
Exploring Past San Diego
Hoping to take some day journeys to areas outdoors of San Diego as nicely? You’re in luck as a result of there are tons of nice choices. From wine nation to a overseas nation, you’re certain to seek out an superior day journey vacation spot throughout your time in San Diego.
Julian
Positioned simply an hour east of San Diego, Julian is the right place to flee into the mountains. You may see the place gold was first found in California, wander the stunning historic buildings downtown, or attempt the city’s well-known apple pie at spots like Apple Alley Bakery.
The vibe right here could be very laid again and charming, and also you’re prone to really feel as if you’ve stepped again in time, so come ready to calm down.
Temecula Wine Nation
Wine fanatics don’t have to wander far to seek out themselves surrounded by vineyards and wineries. Temecula Wine Nation options almost 50 wineries set on about 33,000 acres of lovely rural land. One can select to guide a wine tour (we advocate the recent air balloon journey) or they will select, guide, and go to wineries all on their very own.
Tijuana
Lastly, there may be the choice of taking your adventures to a different nation solely. San Diego is about proper by the US/Mexico border, making it the right homebase for a fast jaunt all the way down to Tijuana. Many individuals go to Tijuana for the day, utilizing their time there to attempt genuine Mexican meals, see the attractive cathedral, discover museums, and even get dental and medical work executed.
Bear in mind that you’ll want a passport as a way to cross the border, and Mexican insurance coverage is required should you plan to drive in Mexico. If you can be staying in Mexico for greater than 7 days, additionally, you will want to accumulate and fill out an FMM kind.
Conclusion
As you possibly can see, San Diego is completely full of fantastic hidden gems that the common vacationer would by no means even know to search for. Whereas we don’t advocate skipping must-see sights such because the San Diego Zoo and the ocean lions at La Jolla Cove, we 100% advocate including a few of these gems to your itinerary after which getting down to discover some gems by yourself.
As talked about above, staying in an RV might help with this by supplying you with flexibility and making a cheaper lodging state of affairs which will allow you to keep within the metropolis longer. Why not give it a attempt to see how you want off-the-beaten-path exploring? We’re betting you’ll like it, and since there are such a lot of hidden gems in San Diego, it’s the good place to get began!