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.

Café Bassam

An eclectic assortment of paintings, rifles, and old photos decorate the walls of this Gaslamp Quarter café. Order your special brew of espresso or tea and take it to a table to watch the world pass by. Glass jars hold over 100 different types of tea and coffee for sale.
Café La Especial

Since 1952, patrons have eaten the carne asada – a thin filet of marinated grilled beef – savory tacos, and enchiladas with gusto.
Café Pacifica

Head to this quiet bungalow for an elegant seafood dinner. Try the signature drink, a Pomerita.
Cal-a-Vie

Exhilarating programs focus on fitness, nutrition, and personal care. The Mediterranean-style villas provide the most luxurious accommodation.
California Becomes a State (1850)

The Mexican era only lasted until 1848. One bloody battle between the Americans and Californios (see Mission San Diego de Alcalá) was fought at San Pasqual (see San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park). With a payment of $15 million and the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, California became part of the US and then later its 31st state.
California Building & Tower

Bertram Goodhue designed this San Diego landmark for the California-Panama Exposition of 1915–16, using Spanish Plateresque, Baroque, and Rococo details. The geometric tile dome imitates Spanish Moorish ceramic work. An iron weather vane in the shape of a Spanish ship tops the 200-ft (61-m) tower (see California Building).
California-Pacific Exposition (1935–36)

A new Balboa Park exposition was launched to help alleviate effects of the Great Depression. The architect Richard Requa designed buildings inspired by Aztec, Mayan, and Pueblo Indian themes.
Camp Pendleton

Several endangered species and abundant wildlife thrive at the largest US Marine Corps base and amphibious training facility in the country.
Candelas

Mexican nouvelle cuisine in a hacienda ambience. Their seafood is a specialty.
Cane’s

Restaurant by day, happy-hour bar by sunset, and mainstream punk club by night, everyone from Mission Beach’s boardwalk packs in and spills onto the rooftop patio overlooking the ocean for a good time.

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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