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.

Mercado de Artesanías

If you’re walking over the border, wander through these shops first to get an idea about prices. Treasures exist amidst the vast amounts of pottery, glass-ware, blankets, and baskets.
Mercado Hidalgo

Strolling through Tijuana’s open-air food market is an amazing education in exotic fruits, herbs, and chilies. Indoor shops sell housewares and the largest piñata collections ever seen.
Mexico Gains Independence (1821)

After gaining independence, Mexico secularized the California missions and distributed their land to the politically faithful. The resulting rancho system of land management lasted into the 20th century. Without Spanish trade restrictions, ports were open to all and San Diego became a center for the hide trade.
Michael J. Wolf Fine Arts

The oldest gallery in the Gaslamp Quarter features works of emerging US and international contemporary artists. Notice the surrealist acrylics of Filia, the urban landscapes of Luigi Rocca, and the mixed media paintings of Josue Castro, who is inspired by the magic and colors of the Zapotecan culture of Oaxaca.
Miguel’s Cocina

Colorfully-dressed waitresses serve up enormous plates and lethal margaritas. The enchiladas, tacos, and burritos are hearty.
Mille Fleurs

The most acclaimed restaurant in San Diego County is a culinary feast. Fireplaces, fresh flowers, and tapestries complement the exquisite and beautifully-presented food.
Mingei International Museum

This store is filled with ethnic clothes, Chinese brushes, Russian dolls, Indian chiming bells, and a good selection of alebrijes (see Mingei International Museum).
Mission Bay Beaches

Protected from the waves of the Pacific Ocean, 27 miles (43 km) of shoreline, including 19 miles (30 km) of sandy beaches, coves, and inlets, offer idyllic picnic locations. On sunny days, the water is filled with sailboats, kayaks, waterskiers, windsurfers, and rowers. Bike paths wind for miles along the shoreline, and wide grassy areas and ocean breezes make flying kites ideal.
Mission Bay Park

Mission Bay hosts many boating events.
Mission Bay Park

This aquatic wonder-land offers every watersport conceivable. You can also bicycle, play volleyball, jog, or nap on the grass. Excellent park facilities include boat rentals, playgrounds, fire rings, and picnic tables.

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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