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San Diego Faves — Local Spots You’ll Love

13 items

Melinda Mosakowski

From hidden gems to iconic must-dos, this list is my personal guide to soaking up the best of San Diego. Whether you’re craving fresh farmers markets, stunning parks, craft brews, or cozy bookstores, I’ve got the spots that bring all the local vibes ...

Map

Sections

🌞 Outdoor Adventures & Chill Spots

🍽 San Diego Eats You’ll Dream About

☕️ + 🍸 Sips & Social Spots

🎟 Things to Do & Can’t-Miss Experiences

🛍 Local Shops & Unique Finds

💪 Sweat, Sculpt & Move

🌞 Outdoor Adventures & Chill Spots

Whether you’re looking to soak up some sun, catch epic views, or just unwind in nature, this section has my favorite outdoor gems around San Diego. From scenic hikes and peaceful parks to beachside yoga and secret spots to picnic, these are the go-to...

Every Saturday, Little Italy transforms into a vibrant street market bursting with fresh produce, artisanal goods, gorgeous flowers, and the best local bites. You’ll find everything from farm-fresh berries to small-batch olive oil, plus live music an...

Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market

This hillside park is my go-to for those “wow” panoramic views of downtown, Mission Bay, and the ocean—all in one spot. The wide, grassy slopes are perfect for picnics, sunset watching, or just laying out with friends. While it is not an official dog...

🌿 Kate Sessions Park – Views, Picnics & Pure San Diego Magic

Law Street Beach is where laid-back Pacific Beach energy meets stunning coastal views. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing on the grassy bluff above the sand. The best part? On Saturday mornings, you can join free oceanfront yoga ...

🏖 Law Street Beach – Chill Vibes & Oceanfront Yoga

🍽 San Diego Eats You’ll Dream About

From legendary pizza slices and fresh seafood to cozy brunch spots and inventive local flavors, this section is all about the restaurants I can’t stop talking about. These are the places I take friends when I want them to fall in love with San Diego—...

This New York legend serves up thick, crispy-edged Sicilian slices loaded with perfectly cupped, crispy pepperoni and rich, tangy sauce. The crust is chewy yet airy, the cheese is melty perfection, and the flavor? Unreal. It’s the kind of pizza you t...

🍕 Prince Street Pizza – Home of the Iconic Spicy Pepperoni Square

☕️ + 🍸 Sips & Social Spots

From the perfect morning latte to late-night craft cocktails, this section is all about my favorite places to sip, savor, and hang out in San Diego. You’ll find cozy cafes with creative drinks, lively breweries, and bars that know how to mix a killer...

Holsem is my go-to for beautiful, elevated coffee drinks that taste as good as they look. They use high-quality, ethically sourced beans and whip up creative flavors like banana bread latte, pistachio rose, and Nutella cold brew. It’s bright, airy, a...

Holsem Coffee

This spot is a craft beer lover’s dream. Known for their hazy IPAs, creative seasonal releases, and a few award-winning staples, North Park Beer Co. nails both flavor and vibe. The space is airy and inviting, with big communal tables perfect for hang...

🍺 North Park Beer Co. – Award-Winning Brews in the Heart of North Park

🎟 Things to Do & Can’t-Miss Experiences

From catching a Padres game at Petco Park to listening to live music under the stars at The Rady Shell, this section is packed with the best activities San Diego has to offer. Think concerts, local events, cultural landmarks, and all the spots that m...

This gorgeous outdoor venue offers world-class performances with breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay and skyline. Whether it’s a symphony, a concert, or a special event, the vibe here is unforgettable — music under the stars with that perfect oce...

🎶 The Rady Shell – San Diego’s Stunning Waterfront Concert Venue

Petco Park isn’t just a stadium—it’s an experience. From the vibrant atmosphere and awesome food options to the stunning views of downtown San Diego, it’s the place to catch a game or concert with friends and family. Whether you’re a die-hard Padres ...

⚾️ Petco Park – Home of the San Diego Padres & Unmatched Ballpark Vibes

This iconic zoo is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Home to thousands of animals from around the globe, the San Diego Zoo offers immersive habitats, engaging animal encounters, and lush greenery that feels like a mini jungle in the city. W...

🐾 San Diego Zoo – The World’s Most Famous Wildlife Adventure

Every week, Belching Beaver in North Park lights up with trivia night vibes—think great craft beers, delicious food, and a lively crowd ready to put their knowledge to the test. Whether you’re a trivia champ or just in it for laughs and drinks, this ...

🧠 Trivia Nights at Belching Beaver – Fun, Friends & Fierce Competition

🛍 Local Shops & Unique Finds

San Diego is full of charming indie shops, hidden boutiques, and creative spaces that make shopping feel like an adventure. This section highlights my favorite places to browse for books, gifts, home goods, and one-of-a-kind treasures you won’t find ...

This charming independent bookstore in San Diego is my go-to spot for discovering thoughtfully curated reads across all genres. With a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff, Verbatim Books feels like a community hub where you can get lost in stories and...

📚 Verbatim Books – A Book Lover’s Cozy Sanctuary

Meet Cute is a cozy, welcoming spot packed with handpicked books, local art, and all the good vibes. Whether you’re after the latest bestsellers, unique gifts, or just a quiet nook to get lost in a story, this bookstore has your back. It’s the perfec...

📖 Meet Cute Bookstore – Your New Favorite Romance Bookshop

💪 Sweat, Sculpt & Move

San Diego’s fitness scene is full of studios that make working out something you actually look forward to. This section is where I share my favorite spots for everything from high-energy group classes to low-impact sculpt sessions and mind-body worko...

BodyRok is my go-to studio for fun, high-energy strength and conditioning classes that leave you feeling strong and energized. Their mix of weight training, cardio, and functional moves is perfect for anyone looking to level up their fitness game wit...

💪 BODYROK – Elevate Your Workout in Bankers Hill