Super San Diego
On arrival in the early evening I stayed in Los Angeles for the first night before heading down to San Diego first thing the following morning. The drive was great taking in the views of the Pacific highway and taking around two hours. As this was a bit of a whirlwind trip, on arrival into San Diego I headed straight into the main town and boarded MSS Medway, a huge aircraft carrier which served the American Navy in the Second World War. Now a museum in the port lined up against some cruise ships, it was a very moving but amusing afternoon. Many of the men who served on the ship volunteer their time on board now, showing you around and telling their stories of what life was like on board and during the war.
Staying at Mission Bay was beautiful. Miles and miles of white powder sand with a promenade filled with bars and restaurants. The evenings could be spent having a meal watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean – wow. During the day, San Diego has some great attractions for a family holiday including the world famous San Diego Zoo. There is also Sea World and Aquatica where I spent the next two days. Having never been to either of them here on San Diego or in Orlando I was looking forward to finding out more.
Sea World was the first visit and again a great day for everyone, of every age. The penguin house was just amazing, and lunch with the whales, let’s just say I got more than a little wet! I was lucky enough to have a behind the scenes look at how everything works, and at the rehabilitation for the ocean animals that are rescued and returned to the oceans and the importance of the background work as well as bringing the animals to the public at SeaWorld Park. This is something I can pre-book for you and your family to experience.
Day three was spent at Aquatica. A little further out of Central San Diego it took about half an hour from Mission Bay. A brilliant water park, with some huge slides and a real fun and relaxing day away from the city.
Very importantly it was close to the discount shopping mall where of course I had to check would be a good place to get some designer bargains whilst here, and it didn’t disappoint! Thanks heavens for credit cards!
San Diego is just 20 miles from the Mexican border so has a big Hispanic influence and history. This shows in the food and culture. Many of the restaurants have very Mexican influenced food and drinks. You have to try one or two of the Margaritas!
If you are looking for a busy nightlife the Gas Lamp area is the liveliest area to head to with some great live music bars and nightclubs and you can party into the early hours. For a quieter night head for Mission Bay. My favourite restaurant was Cannonballs, with an open air and open kitchen so you can sit chilled, watching your steak or lobster being prepared with a lovely glass of Californian wine – rude not to try it!
On the last day I headed across the huge and infamous Coronado Bridge across from the main city of San Diego connecting the city to Coronado Island. A quieter area than the main city and home to the most exclusive hotels that San Diego has to offer. I visited my favourite hotel The Coronado Del Rey overlooking the most fabulous beach (Baywatch was actually filmed on this beach). This hotel has hosted and entertained politicians such as JFK, Hollywood stars, and more infamously it is where Edward and Mrs. Simpson met. A huge history and just the most amazing and beautiful hotel. I shall definitely be returning for a stay here.
Returning to Los Angeles airport I felt that I had only just scratched the surface of this amazing city, but return with the knowledge that I will definitely be returning for a second visit. I can definitely recommend as a great destination for a family holiday or pre or post cruise stay. A city break with a beach holiday combined, it can make a two centre holiday without having to change destination as there is so much to explore and absorb in the city and then a relaxing stay on the beach.
Flights are available direct into San Diego or you can fly into LA and spend a few days there as well. Unfortunately not enough time for me to do that this time. Next time, definitely.