A favorite drive for locals and visitors alike, US Route 101, aka the Pacific Coast Highway, runs through San Diego beach towns along 70 miles of winding coastline from La Jolla to Oceanside. This scenic route is a great way to experience an authentic So. Cal lifestyle vibe and mix and mingle in San Diego's surf culture. Here are seven spot worth checking out along the way.
Torrey Pines
Take a Hike
Home to some of the best views in San Diego, Torrey Pines State Reserve is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Whether you peruse along the shore or hike one of the several trails and loops within the park, there's a path for hikers of all interests and abilities.With more than 8 miles of trails to explore, Torrey Pines is the perfect place to enjoy the diverse ecological offerings and coastal landscapes of San Diego.
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Del Mar
Dog Beach
Traveling with a four-legged friend? Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the turf of the Del Mar Racetrack lies Dog Beach, which has some of the most Fido-friendly surf around. From Labor Day through mid-June, dogs can run and play off-leash along this roughly half-mile stretch of sand between 29th Street and the Solana Beach border—under the watchful eye of their owners, of course. Leash laws are enforced for the other three months of the year.
3200 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
Solana Beach
Cedros Avenue Design District
Shop for unique furniture, fashion, art, antiques, and home decor in the boutiques and galleries that line this 2 1/2-block stretch of Cedros Avenue. The Design District is also home to a handful of cafés, a craft brewery, and live music venue Belly Up.
Cedros Ave (south of Lomas Santa Fe Dr), Solana Beach, CA 92075
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Seaside Market
Grocery shopping isn’t something you usually look forward to on vacation, but Seaside Market will definitely change your mind. This gourmet one-stop shop has it all—food, drinks, flowers, gifts, and more. Hit the deli counter for your fix of what’s affectionately known as Cardiff Crack—succulent grilled tri-tip infused with burgundy pepper marinade and served up sandwich style. What goes better with tender tri-tip than a cold beer? In the same shopping center is craft beer tasting room The Confessional by Lost Abbey. This kid- and dog-friendly tasting room offers 23 regular and seasonal brews from The Lost Abbey, Port Brewing Co., and The Hop Concept.
2087 San Elijo Ave, Cardiff, CA 92007
Encinitas
Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens
Perched above the cliffs in Encinitas you’ll find the Self-Realization Fellowship Temple affectionately known to locals as Swamis.’ Accessed through a small gate on K Street is the entrance to the Meditation Gardens which is open to the public. The gardens offer a peaceful and reflective place to relax, meditate and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Walking paths bordered by colorful plants lead to koi ponds, secluded nooks with benches for reflecting life’s journey and spectacular, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. If you’re interested in a little soul searching during your San Diego vacation, this is the right place.
215 W. K Street, Encinitas, CA 92024
Open Tues – Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 11am-5pm, Closed Mondays
Carlsbad
This kid-centric North County attraction is filled with themed rides, shows, building workshops, character meet and greets, and all things Lego. There’s also a water park and aquarium for even more Lego fun.
1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
North Oceanside
The Pier
Stroll down one of the longest wooden piers on the West Coast and check out what the local fishermen are reeling in, snap a pic of one of the many photogenic pelicans, or watch surfers hang ten just below. Stop into ‘50s-style eatery Ruby’s Diner at the end of the pier for a malt. And don’t forget to check out who’s playing at the Junior Seau Oceanside Pier Amphitheater, located just at the foot of the pier.
300 S Pacific St, Oceanside, CA 92054
Get out and explore more of San Diego’s unique neighborhoods, attractions, and experiences. View more Sunny 7’s here.
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