DK Travel : San Diego

Blessed by a sunny climate that never varies ten degrees from moderate and a splendid setting along the Pacific Ocean, San Diegans can well boast they live the California Dream. Although non-stop outdoor recreation, a vibrant downtown, and world-class attractions keep the city’s spirit young, its heart lies in its Spanish beginnings as the birthplace of California.

Diving

The best spots for diving off the coast are the giant kelp forests of Point Loma and the La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve. Common sealife includes lobsters and garibaldi – the official state marine fish.
Diving at Wreck Alley

Just off Mission Beach is the final resting place for the Yukon, a decommissioned Canadian warship, the coastguard cutter Ruby E, and a barge, all deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef. A research tower here collapsed on its own, with its dangling wires and protrusions only adding to the otherworldly, ethereal atmosphere. Thousands of invertebrate marine life have taken up residence here. Charter boats will take you out.
Dizzy’s

It’s all about the music at this sparse 1913 warehouse just east of the Gaslamp Quarter. No food or alcohol are available, and no TV or neon lights distract from the live jazz bands. All ages are welcome.
Dog Beach

Leashes optional! Your dog can run loose to chase after balls, Frisbees, and other dogs with joyous abandon. The beach is open 24 hours, so you can even come here for a midnight swim. Posts with handy plastic bags help you pick up the aftermath.
Dudley’s Bakery

Boasting an almost cult-like popularity, everyone stops in this bakery and snack shop near Julian. Lines are long to buy loaves of 16 varieties of bread.
East Village

Formerly a Victorian village that fell into neglect but survived as a warehouse district and artist colony, this is downtown’s newest redeveloped area. Petco Park, the 2004 state-of-the-art baseball stadium and home to the San Diego Padres (see San Diego Padres), is the neighborhood’s latest focal point. Check out the 1909 Western Metal Supply building: architects incorporated the vintage building into the stadium’s structure. A new Children’s Museum of San Diego, a new main library, shops, restaurants, artists’ lofts, and 4,000 new dwellings are currently under construction.
El Agave Tequileria

Utter culinary magic awaits within one of the first tequilarias in San Diego. Classic Mexican food with French touches make eating here an event (see El Agave Tequileria).
El Agave Tequileria

Ancient Mexican and Spanish spices and traditions make for a unique Mexican dining experience. Shrimp, sea bass, and the filet mignon prepared with goats cheese and a dark tequila sauce are heavenly. Mole, the distinctive blending of spices, garlic, and sometimes chocolate, is a specialty, as well as 150 tequila selections.
El Cajon Speedway

Cars compete on the fastest 3/8-mile paved oval.
El Cordova

At this 1902 Spanish-style hotel, Mexican tiles line stairways and wrought-iron balconies overlook the street. A swimming pool is set amid lush landscaping. Good restaurants are next door.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$250
- $250–$300
- over $300
Restaurant price categories

For a three course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $20
- $20–$40
- $40–$55
- $55–$80
- over $80