Things To Do
Acento Coffee Roasters
For: True espresso. This is our second favorite coffee spot in SD. Tell Luis Clint says hello.
Bahn Thai
If you've ever wanted to try authentic Thai food, this is the spot. Go early for dinner, as there is limited seating outside or take to-go.
Balboa Park Golf Course
Here for an extended stay? This is Clint's favorite location for golf whether you have time for 9 or a full 18 holes.
Born and Raised
Oh, you fancy? This is a little too-pricey for dinner if you ask us, but it's absolutely an acceptable spot for a cocktail if you're checking out Little Italy. Make sure to wait for a rooftop seat if you can.
Botanical Building
This is a newly reconstructed botanical building located in the heart of Balboa Park! You could be in and out of here in about 20 minutes to check out museums or the zoo.
Brockton Villa
Go for brunch early (before 10am). Get the "Coast Toast" to share. It will change your life. Bonus: Located across the street from another recommendation, La Jolla Cove.
Civico 1845
Our favorite Little Italy restaurant. You can't go wrong with any dish, and their white wines are particuarly tasty.
Crystal Pier
Beautiful, picturesque views of the ocean. Walk right out onto the pier and enjoy the local beach experience.
Fashion Valley
If you need a shopping experience in close proximity, this is the better of the two malls located in the Mission Valley area (The other is Mission Valley mall. That one is bad.)
Fortunate Son Chinese
This is authentic, family-style Chinese food. Get there early for dinner, as waits can get up to 45 minutes. Best for 2-4 people.
Hotel del Coronado
You've likely seen the pictures of this hotel. It's very James Bond, and you can walk right in without a reservation to see the history. It's located on Coronado Island, so it's also a good excuse to use the infamous Coronado Bridge.
House of Pacific Relations - Hall of Nations
This is such a unique place to stroll through during your visit to Balboa Park. Every weekend, the international houses set up tables to try snacks and foods (for free) from each country.
Ironside Fish & Oyster
If you prefer seafood to pasta, Ironside is your best friend. Go here for dinner, get the oyster sampler, then pop over to Salt & Straw for dessert afterward.
James Coffee Co.
For: Drip coffee + Lattes. Clint's favorite coffee shop AND best beans to take home. Get the White Owl blend.
La Jolla Cove
Get within feet of a Sea Lion and see a beautiful view all at once. We highly recommend this for Saturday or Sunday morning before 10am while you're waiting for your name at Brockton Villa just across the street for brunch.
La Puerta
Our favorite Mexican restaurant with a rock ' n ' roll theme. We recommend the tacos and margaritas.
Liberty Public Market
Got a picky eating crew? Let them decide for themselves with 20+ restaurants and plenty of seating.
Nomad Donuts
Great for more dense, cake-like donuts with seasonal flavor rotations. Honestly, though, our favorite things there are the bagels.
Old Town
It's a bit touristy, but for a good reason. This is one of the original settlements of San Diego with rich history and unique shops. Do not eat there. Go somewhere more authentic.
Oltre Mare
Hidden gem Italian spot located off the beaten path in Pacific Beach. You'll get a true Italian experience and some of the best focaccia you'll ever eat. We recommend the gnocchi. It's BYOB and no "corkage" fee if you're bringing wine.
Pop Pie Co. + Stella Jean Ice Cream
Double-threat — Freshly made pot pies and the most creamy ice cream you've ever had. Go here for an affordable, unique meal and dessert.
Rose Donuts
Go here if you prefer fluffier donuts that you can eat by the multiples.
Salt & Straw
Best ice cream in San Diego, with Stella Jean close behind. If you're on a stroll through Little Italy, this is a must-try. There's always a line on weekends, but it moves quickly.
San Diego Whale Watch
Any whale-watching company will do, honestly. They all go to the same spots. In April, you're almost guaranteed to see dolphins and have a good chance to see Gray and Humpback whales.
San Diego Zoo
It's expensive, but for a good reason. It's the #1 rated zoo in the US for a reason and located right in the heart of Balboa Park, which you'll likely want to see anyway.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
Good for a 10-15 minute stroll if you like heights, but it's not necessarily by any of our other recommendations, so you can easily skip.
Starlite
Low-lit, romantic spot if you're looking for a date night in the city. Their cocktails are next level, and the location is just off the path of the tourists.
Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station
Great for large parties. Located within the Public Market so you can walk off the brews afterwards. We recommend an early dinner and then a quick drive to Sunset Cliffs for the best sunset you'll ever see.
Sunset Cliffs
Go for one of the best sunsets you'll ever see. Dress warm in April!
Sushi Deli 1
Somehow the most affordable AND best tasting sushi we've found in 10 years. Really solid delivery options as well if you want to be an introvert in your hotel room.
Torrey Pines Gliderport
Located a few hundred feet above a private beach, this is a 15-20 minute stop to just enjoy an incredible view. If you're lucky, you may see some dolphins down below.
Tribute Pizza
Best woodfire pizza in the city. It's solid for carry-out, but dining in is also a great experience. They have excellent cocktails while you wait and the best focaccia bread we've ever had.
Wayfarer Bread & Pastry
Best pastry shop in the country, hands down. Get there before 10am and much on your pastries just two blocks away at the secluded Calumet Park for some ocean views.