Set Your Sights on San Diego
By Kelsea Russo
San Diego is a top destination for thrill-seekers and romantics alike. La Jolla, just 20 minutes outside of downtown San Diego is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. This small, coastal community is ideal for adventure, relaxation and year-round sunshine.
Day 1
Stay at the La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, one of the few hotels in the area. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis, the amiable hotel is nestled on beachfront property. Ninety-eight guestrooms, 12 hard-surfaced tennis courts and a 9-hole golf course are just moments from the San Diego Underwater Park, a600-acre ecological reserve. August is Texas month! Snooze amid the sounds of waves crashing on the Pacific shore while the Lone Star Flag waves in the breeze above you.
La Jolla activities are abundant. Start your day with a soothing session of yoga on the beach. Trained professionals lead you through stretches and meditations for an hour of mental and physical relaxation in the cool, San Diego morning. Once you’re rejuvenated, embark on a free fall bike tour with San Diego Bike and Kayak Tours. Feel the wind on your face as you glide2 invigorating hours from the top of the historic Mt. Soledad to the famous seal harbor, an open community where dozens of endangered seals seek shelter.
For a peaceful afternoon, visit the Grand Del Mar, San Diego’s only 5-star and 5-diamondresort. Slightly east of the coastline, the resort combines Mediterranean charm and modern elegance; and activities that don’t involve the beach. Saddle up at the equestrian center for a romantic trail ride through lush greens and picturesque vegetation surrounding Los Peñasquitos Canyon.
One does not survive on activities alone. We need food! Power up at The Shores Restaurant where they combine healthy seasonal/regional menu selections with ocean front views and exceptional quality. Lunch on Burger Lounge’s patio in the San Diego sun as you sip their signature Lounge Milk shakes. They use only the greatest organic and grass-fed beef in their patties. The local eatery offers vegetarians Quinoa Veggie patties and fresh salads. Brockton Villa is a fairy-tale dinner setting. Request a table overlooking the La Jolla Cove and the light breeze from the coast will compliment wine and their renowned Cioppino. Brockton Villa is known for American cuisine, seafood and Bananas Foster Bread Pudding.
Day 2
Slip into your swimsuit and head over to Surf Diva for a stand-up paddle board lesson. Surf Diva is one of the world’s premier women’s surf schools, offering year-round classes on surfing and stand-up paddle boarding for men and women of all ages. The friendly owners match you with the correct wetsuit and paddleboard, lead you to the water and walk you through each and every step of the process. With these expert instructors you’ll stand-up and be paddling in no time.
The afternoon presents mid-day coastal winds on top of the hill of Torrey Pines Gliderport. That’s right! Gliders. Sail nearly 300 feet above La Jolla’s Black Beach and take in incredible panoramic views of the ocean, as you are strapped alongside a certified instructor in a comfortable seated position. Bring a camera so you can capture the 30-minutes of highflying adventure along the sparkling coastline.
At La Jolla’s best-known restaurant, George’s at the Cove, Chef Trey Foshee presents fish tacos and George’s specialty- smoked chicken, black bean and broccoli soup along with their house-made organic tea that highlights fresh ingredients of the region. The open-air rooftop terrace is spectacular, buzzing with chatter over the sights below. For something a little more secluded, try a romantic dinner for two on the beach at the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club. They will set up a candle lit table next to the ocean so you can dine and savor wine as you watch the sunset. A barefoot stroll along the beach with your loved one is a perfect end to the day’s activities.
Day3
The Lodge at Torrey Pines staff will guide your hike in the 2,000-acre Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Get your blood pumping as you make your way through the indigenous wildlife and natural landscaping up to the vista point, where striking views of Peñasquitos Lagoon and the Pacific Ocean will leave you breathless. Snap a few photos and head back to the Lodge’s in-house restaurant, the A.R. Valentien, for one of the nation’s top ten farm-to-table experiences.
Recuperate from your adventures with a treatment at the Torrey Pines Spa. With a full menu of holistic and specialty care services, the Spa aims to utilize local marine and botanical-based products for a truly rejuvenating experience. These professionals have you feeling relaxed ad restored.
Observe life on La Jolla’s charming streets from the covered patio at Roppongi Restaurant and Sushi Bar. This contemporary fine-dining facility serves excellent Asian fusion cuisine. Wine and dine with a glass or two of true Napa Valley vino and make sure to save room for a scoop of coconut gelato for a sweet end to this trip.
LaJolla’s floating sea breeze, clean air and adventures await you. This small jewel just outside of San Diego’s downtown is paradise.
