Explore San Diego, California and immerse yourself in fun and relaxation anytime of the year. Cycle down the La Jolla Coast on a bike tour, or take a walking food and wine tour in the Gaslamp Quarter. If walking is not your thing, you can rent an electric bike and cruise down the streets, or rent a helicopter and view the city from above. However, if you prefer being in or near the water, spend a few hours relaxing, sunbathing, and sightseeing on a San Diego Harbor cruise. You can also embark on speed boating adventures, go sailing, or take a harbor dinner cruise with someone special. If you’re planning your trip to this beloved southern Californian city, this guide lists 10 of the best spots to book a vacation rental in San Diego.
1. Pacific Beach
Search for a vacation rental in Pacific Beach to stay close to the boardwalk and the Crystal Pier. You can sign up for a class on paddle boarding, or take a run on the beach. Bring your dog and rollerblades and get some fresh air. If you can’t find a place to park at the beach, there is always valet parking. If you get hungry, you can find both classic menu items like hamburgers and hot dogs or sample the fresh fish tacos or International fare.
2. Ocean Beach
Step back in time to the beautiful historic district of Ocean Beach. Grab a brochure in any one of the buildings and take a self-guided tour or bring your puppy and visit the nationally famous Dog Beach. There is also beach volleyball and excellent waves for surfing. If you prefer organized sports, Robb Athletic Field has basketball courts, eight softball fields, and there are tennis courts for those who want to escape the vacation rental for some fun.
3. North Park
Known as one of America’s best hipster neighborhoods, North Park is the perfect spot for choosing a vacation rental. Take a walk on University Avenue for some of the tastiest tacos around. If you need to limber up afterward, sneak into a yoga class at one of the studios in the area. There are also eclectic shops with everything from art prints and blankets to souvenirs for family. If you like exploring the outdoors, walk to Balboa Park and hike through the lush grounds, view the fountains, and then view the animals at the San Diego Zoo.
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4. South Park
South Park is a tight-knit community with friendly residents and plenty of restaurants, boutiques, and breweries. The neighborhood hosts seasonal walkabouts where all of the local businesses get together at the intersections of 30th Street and Beech Street to showcase their services. You’ll find live entertainment, complimentary treats, and plenty of special offers. Pack up your hiking gear and head out from your vacation rental early in the morning for a day of foot paths, hilly vistas, and fresh air at Juniper Canyon. You can also get in a round of golf.
5. Mission Beach
Enjoy pet-friendly rentals directly on the water at Mission Beach. If you are up for the challenge, take surf lessons from one of the local pros, or rent a bike and pedal along the boardwalk. Sample a fine selection of wines at one of the local vineyards, or make an appointment at a local spa for head to toe relaxation. Mission Beach is also home to the Belmont Park amusement park, which opened in 1925. Here you will find a laser tag arena, a rock climbing wall, and plenty of thrill rides for all ages.
6. East Village
To the east of Gaslamp Quarter lies the East Village where you can visit Petco Park to watch the San Diego Padres play baseball from April until October. Throughout the year you can also purchase tickets to a variety of concerts and performances. Spacious lofts, furnished condominiums, and beautiful apartments make the perfect vacation rental in East Village. Kids will enjoy the New Children’s Museum, which is packed with interactive exhibits, or rent a boat and head out of the waters for diving along the reefs and channel edges.
7. Little Italy
Enjoy sipping wine from the balcony of your vacation rental or explore the stalls at the local farmer’s market for local fruits and vegetables in Little Italy. The Firehouse Museum features firehouse memorabilia dating back over 100 years, there are also quaint shops, numerous boutiques, and several cafes to meander through on a warm spring day. If you plan your visit in the summer, attend the annual Little Italy Summer Film Festival, which features original flicks from artists throughout the region.
8. Blacks Beach
Blacks Beach is a remote section of beach located between the bluffs in La Jolla. Popular among surfers, this beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Put on your hiking boots and hike along the Ho Chi Minh Trail or watch the sea lions at La Jolla Cove. If it’s raining, spend time indoors at the Birch Aquarium where you can watch sea horses, vibrantly-colored fish, and other sea life in their natural habitat.
9. Point Loma
From beautiful and spacious vacation homes for the family to quiet and efficient condos, Point Loma offers a variety of vacation rentals for a San Diego beach getaway. The Cabrillo Tide Pools are an educational and fun place to view the sea creatures as they wash in with the tide. Rent a catamaran and go on a sailing adventure, or pack a picnic and head to the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park for amazing views of the Pacific.
10. La Jolla
If you want all of the benefits of a busy metropolitan area combined with beautiful beaches and serene waters, opt for a vacation rental in La Jolla. The La Jolla Shores Beach is the perfect place for swimming and collecting seashells. There is also a large playground and a huge grassy area for picnics and reading. At the LA Jolla Cove, you may even get lucky enough to see a group of sea lions on the rocks below. Head inland to the Museum of Contemporary Art for a collection of wonderful masterpieces. You can also play a round of golf at the Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course, which is located directly beside the Pacific Ocean.
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