When you’re planning a trip to a city as large and diverse as San Diego, choosing the right neighborhoods to stay in and visit is the key to maximizing your experience. It’s important to choose a neighborhood that suits your interests and way of life. If you’ve found yourself wondering where the nightlife can be found or the best areas for whale sightings San Diego has to offer, your questions are about to be answered. Here are five of the coolest neighborhoods to check out in San Diego, California.
1. The Gaslamp Quarter
Calling itself the “Historic Heart of San Diego,” the Gaslamp Quarter is teeming with a rich history that is evidenced by its beautiful Victorian-era architecture. The area may be home to nearly 100 buildings that hold historic significance, but the neighborhood certainly isn’t stuck in the past. The Gaslamp Quarter is a popular nightlife destination filled with plenty of options for grabbing an amazing meal or a quick sip.
2. La Jolla
If living the beach life is your thing, then La Jolla is your place. Alternate your time between lounging on the sand, playing in the waves and gearing up for adventure. When you aren’t relaxing, you could be hiking, kayaking or getting a close-up view of the native wildlife on a whale-watching tour. In fact, Carlsbad whale watching is particularly popular and is only a short drive away from the area.
3. Pacific Beach
If your idea of the perfect getaway involves sunny beach days and exciting nights spent out on the town, Pacific Beach is a must-visit neighborhood. The coastline here is picture perfect and will beckon for you to spend all day taking in the glorious views. The party really begins here when night falls and the club and social scene comes alive.
4. Old Town San Diego
Get a taste of history when you visit this historic San Diego neighborhood. The year was 1769 when the first Spanish settlement was erected on the land that now comprises Old Town. There are an impressive number of historic sites to take in here, as well as many restaurants, shops and museums to choose from to fill your stay.
5. North Park
Foodies and art lovers alike find their happy place in North Park. Although in its current state North Park is known to be a sort of popular hipster hangout, the area was at one time meant to be turned into a lemon grove. Today, residents and visitors to the area enjoy a robust selection of adorable and eclectic shops, breweries, restaurants worth raving about, art galleries and much more. Ray at Night is an ever-popular area event that takes place on the second Saturday of every month. The keystone event features live performances enjoyed out in the fresh California air and several art galleries that attendees can visit throughout the evening.
If you’re fantasizing about taking in the sunrise or sunset on some of the most beautiful beaches the U.S. has to offer or you’re realizing that finding “the best boat charters near me” sounds like a dream come true, it’s time to take the plunge and begin planning your own trip to San Diego today.
