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.

Bay Club Hotel & Marina

Rattan furniture and tropical fabrics give a Polynesian cast to this hotel. The best rooms are at the back, and have views of the marina and Point Loma. Breakfast is included.
Bazaar del Mundo

Lining a lushly landscaped plaza decorated in brilliant colors, quality shops offer Mexican tableware, folk art, Guatemalan textiles, and books (see Bazaar del Mundo).
Beach at W Hotel

The ultimate in cool, this spot is the next best thing if you can’t make it to the beach. Relax under the stars outside on comfortable banquette seating, order a martini and dig your toes into the heated sand, or go for a Mai Tai in a private, candle-lit cabana.
Bella Luna

A loyal clientele proves this is one of the best Italian trattorias in the Gaslamp Quarter. Sidewalk seating offers prime people-watching, but head inside if you prefer a warm, romantic atmosphere in which to enjoy your northern Italian meal.
Belly Up Tavern

Considered one of the best live music venues in the county, old Quonset huts have been acoustically altered to showcase almost famous and famous bands.
Belmont Park

This old-fashioned fun zone keeps the kids entertained for hours. They can take a ride on the Giant Dipper roller coaster, Tilt-a-Whirl, and an antique carousel; enjoy the Bumper Cars; or play in Pirates Cove, an enormous area with slides and tunnels. If the ocean is too cold, try The Plunge, a 175-ft (53-m) indoor pool (see Swimming).
Bertrands at Mr. A’s

Planes on approach to Lindbergh Field make dining a visual affair (see Bertrands at Mr. A’s).
Bertrands at Mr. A’s

A dazzling city-view and contemporary cuisine at a local favorite.
Best Western Blue Sea Lodge

Head to the pool or the Pacific Ocean for a morning swim and then down the boardwalk for breakfast. New rooms and suites have brightened this lodge, but the older rooms have the beach view.
Best Western Hacienda Suites

On a hillside overlooking Old Town, the rooms at this charming hacienda-style hotel have private balconies or look onto a courtyard. There is complimentary airport transportation.

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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