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.

Azzura Point

Enjoy the memorable California-French cuisine while looking out onto the bay.
B&B Inn La Jolla

This delightful home with its individually decorated rooms was designed in 1913 by renowned architect Irving Gill, and Kate Sessions (see The Mother of Balboa Park) planted its original gardens.
Babette Schwartz

Find a wacky item to make you the life of the party. Flashing “Kiss Me” buttons, guns that launch plastic pigs, Wonder Woman memorabilia, and Tikis are the favorites.
Bahia Resort Hotel

This venerable Mission Bay Hotel is right next to the bay and Mission Beach. At night, you can enjoy live music on the Bahia Belle, a stern-wheeler that floats on the bay every evening.
Balboa Park

This landmark destination and heart of San Diego offers an array of superb activities. Visit its gardens and museums for inspiration, to play sports, or to watch a concert. Although crowded, Sundays are good days to experience the community at leisure (see Balboa Park).

Fountain at Balboa Park
Balboa Park & San Diego Zoo

San Diegans take pride in having one of the finest urban parks in the world. Its famous zoo, fascinating museums, and exquisite gardens offer endless activities (see Balboa Park).
Balboa Park & San Diego Zoo

Home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, 15 unique museums, theaters, countless recreational opportunities, and exquisite landscaping, Balboa Park creates an indelible impression. No matter the time of year, vibrant flowers bloom in profusion and pepper tree groves and grassy expanses provide idyllic spots for picnicking. Allow a minimum of a few days to soak in the park’s attractions (see Balboa Park).

White floss silk tree flower at the Zoo
Balboa Park Inn

This B&B is housed in Spanish-Colonial style buildings constructed in 1915. The Orient Express room features a Chinese rosewood bed, and the Tara Suite pays tribute to Gone With the Wind .
Ballast Point

In 1542, while Kumeyaay Indians waited on a beach at Ballast Point, Juan Cabrillo (see Point Loma) stepped ashore and claimed the land for Spain. In 1803, the “Battle of San Diego Bay” took place here, after Spanish Fort Guijarros fired on an American brig in a smuggling incident.
Bay Books

This independent bookstore has helpful staff, an ample selection of books of local interest and international papers and magazines.

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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