My Happy Place - San Diego

Of all my travels over the years, if there is a trip I reminisce a lot these days, it is my San Diego trip. It fills my heart with happiness and warmth akin to the soft sunshine of San Diego. The pleasant weather, gorgeous ocean views, delectable food and the company of close friends made it my happy place for the three days I spent there. Oh how I miss those days, San Diego!

We landed on the morning of our day 1 and checked into the hotel. We set off for this quaint little cafe called Little Lion cafe near Sunset Cliffs (https://www.yelp.com/biz/little-lion-point-loma). We were greeted by their friendly server who put us on the wait list. We decided to take a stroll of Sunset Cliffs while we waited for our table. The view of the ocean early in the morning instantly uplifted my spirits. Watching people do yoga, walk their dogs or simply jog along the cliff while the ocean below roared gently is a privilege I wish I had in my everyday life. Our tables were ready and we headed back to the cafe. I had avocado toast, mocha and a delicious fruit bowl with passion fruit curd. It was a perfect start to a perfect trip.

We headed back to the hotel and rested for a while. Next on the agenda was Cabrillo National Monument. We spent about 2 hours walking and hiking taking in the breathtaking views all around. 




We caught a glimpse of the San Diego skyline, harbor, Coronado island and Mexico. After the monument, we headed back to Sunset Cliffs to catch the sunset. 

Sunset cliffs are flanked by million dollar houses on one side and the ocean on the other. The locals have found a way to meander down the cliffs (dangerously) to access tiny beach areas which they have made their own. We also got front row seats to the exciting cliff jumping that only the strong of heart engaged in.


It was a beautiful evening watching sunset and the happy frolickers. We also walked around the neighborhood and went to the nearby Ocean beach pier. It was a nice long walk and by the time we reached there, we were hungry for some food. Next stop was Cesarina (https://www.yelp.com/biz/cesarina-san-diego-3). We loved the freshly made pasta and the table-side tiramisu. The owners were very friendly and were checking with all their guests to get their feedback. They really cared about the food they made and that was evident. This was a happy happy day 1 of the trip.

Day 2 started with breakfast at Cafe 222 (https://www.yelp.com/biz/cafe-222-san-diego). I had some lovely waffles and coffee. After that we headed to the ferry terminal near the Convention center to catch a short ferry to Coronado island. The picturesque island is home to the grand Hotel del Coronado and the Coronado beach. We walked across the island merrily and then leisurely strolled the beach with cold water caressing our feet. On the way back from the beach, we savored some amazing pizza at Nado Republic (https://www.yelp.com/biz/nado-republic-coronado). 




We returned back to the hotel for some rest. In the evening, we headed out for a walk in the Seaport village followed by dinner at Puesto (https://www.yelp.com/biz/puesto-at-the-headquarters-san-diego-5). The meal and the ambience was exceptional. A happy happy day 2. 




Day 3 started with one of the most extravagant looking restaurant Morning Glory (https://www.yelp.com/biz/morning-glory-san-diego-3). Loved the ambience, the breakfast and the Maple Cinnamon Hot Chocolate. From here, we walked to Balboa Park. Balboa park is home to several parks, museums and the San Diego zoo. We walked around the park and decided to visit the tranquil Japanese gardens located in the park. It was a blissful walk admiring the bonsai trees, the koi pond and little wooden bridges and benches.

We headed back to the hotel and rested for a bit after which we went for a walk to Gaslamp Quarters. We had a delicious meal at Royal India (https://www.yelp.com/biz/royal-india-san-diego-san-diego-4) and then walked to see this last monument called the Unconditional Surrender. Day 3 was another happy happy day but the thought of leaving soon was weighing me down. 



I headed to the airport knowing that this was a trip I would remember for years to come. The trip was everything I had hoped for and even more. I hope to return again some day to my happy place - San Diego.

Comments

  1. Awesome Post! Absolutely love San Diego!

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