While it might have a reputation as LA’s “little brother,” San Diego is a quintessential southern California beach city and a terrific vacation destination in its own right. Here are a few of the coolest neighborhoods in America’s Finest City:
La Jolla: Nicknamed “the Jewel,” La Jolla is a charming seaside community with a unique history and arts culture. Despite being one of the most expensive neighborhoods in San Diego, La Jolla has maintained a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere since it was first established as an artist colony in the 1890s. Come to La Jolla for the stunning beaches, but stay for the museums, boutiques, and Mexican restaurants.
Mission Bay: If you’re visiting San Diego in the summer and you want to get out on the water, we recommend heading straight for Mission Bay. Mission Bay, which offers sailing, kitesurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and so much more, is essentially the country’s largest aquatic park. It has sandy shorelines and gorgeous ocean views.
Gaslamp Quarter: Named after the gas lanterns that once lit the streets, the Gaslamp Quarter is known for high-end dining and nightlife. However, while you’ll see plenty of skyscrapers and fancy restaurants, this trendy neighborhood is also home to nearly 100 historic buildings dating back to the Victorian era, lending it a touch of old world class.
Oceanside: For a taste of classic SoCal culture, you can’t do much better than Oceanside. With a long history rooted in the skateboarding and surf communities, “O’side” has been one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets for decades. Besides the skateparks and world-famous shoreline, Oceanside now features plenty of restaurants, stores, and other draws for out-of-town tourists.
To make the most of your next trip, check out our La Jolla Cove Self-Guided Driving Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
