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.

Father Luis Jayme (1740–75)

California’s first martyr died in an Indian attack (see Mission San Diego de Alcalá).
Ferries in San Diego Harbor

On a sunny day nothing beats a ferry ride on the harbor, gazing at the white sailboats against a blue sky.
Ferry Landing Market Place

At the foot of the Coronado Ferry (see Meade House), find an eclectic selection of souvenirs, clothing, and galleries. A great farmers’ market sets up on Tuesday afternoons.
Filippi’s Pizza Grotto

At this Little Italy favorite, the dim lights, the red-checkered tablecloths and hundreds of Chianti bottles hanging from the ceiling haven’t changed in decades. Enter through the Italian deli in front to get to the spaghetti and meatballs and hand-tossed pizzas.
Fingerhut Gallery

This gallery showcases the etchings and lithographs of masters such as Rembrandt, Chagall, and Picasso. Also featured are the brilliant serigraphs of Jiang, one of the founders of the Hunan school of painting, and works by La Jolla’s own Theodore Geisel (see Theodore Geisel (1904–91)). Other artists represented are Peter Max, Joanna Zjawinska, Mackenzie Thorpe, and V. Montesinos.
Fleet Week

Navy ship tours and air and sea parades honor the military.
Flying into San Diego

You can almost see what people are having for dinner as you fly in directly over downtown San Diego.
Four Seasons Resort Aviara

With impeccable service and a superb setting, this hotel is one of the most highly rated in Southern California. Choose between indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, or a couple’s suite with a whirlpool.
Four Winds Trading Company

This Old Town store specializes in authentic Indian pottery, weavings, jewelry, dreamcatchers, and paintings of Native American themes.
Fourth of July Fireworks & Parades

Nearly every San Diego community has its own July 4th festivities, such as fireworks, surfing contests, parades, and street festivals. Since the ban of home fireworks, commercial fireworks shows are the way to go. The biggest show in the county is held over San Diego Harbor.

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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