Seeing San Diego Through Nine Iconic Walks and Eats
The best way to explore a city is on foot and by tongue
Ah, San Diego. The land of fish tacos, IPAs, and 72 degrees. Whether it’s your first or 100th time in America’s finest city, I recommend these nine iconic walks and bites:
(1) Balboa Park
Walk along “El Prado” to view stunning museums, gardens, and fountains. The museums’ facades are exquisite; many of which were constructed in 1915 to commemorate the opening of the Panama Canal during the Panama-California Exposition.
Where to eat:
Azuki Sushi: I lived in Japan for two years, which ruined American sushi for me. This is my second favorite sushi spot in San Diego. I’ll list my favorite at the end.
Wet Stone Wine Bar: a quaint date spot with tasty sangria and small plates.
(2) Coronado
Walking anywhere in Coronado is divine, but I recommend a beach walk to fully appreciate the Hotel Del Coronado, a historic beach resort and local icon since 1888.
Coronado is also a biker’s paradise. I recommend renting a bike and riding around the island’s perimeter.
Where to eat: Real talk, I don’t recommend eating in Coronado. The food is fine, but nothing noteworthy. I recommend conserving your precious stomach space for the mainland.
The Hotel Del: Have a drink on the patio for “the experience.” If you want to live large, their Sunday Brunch lives up to the hype.
(3) Pacific Beach Waterfront
Watch the surfers at Tourmaline, prance along the PB Boardwalk, bask in the sunset while eating a California burrito. Pacific Beach has a reputation for chill beach vibes, though invaded by local college students (especially at night). During the day, it’s still a favorite spot of mine to meander.
This is also one of the best running paths along the water in San Diego. Go early to avoid the crowds.
Where to eat:
Oscars Mexican Seafood: I love their breakfast tacos and ceviche. A long-time PB favorite, this taco spot never disappoints.
(4) Waterfront Park
A stroll along the downtown waterfront will allow you to see many iconic San Diego spots: the USS Midway (a decommissioned aircraft carrier), the kissing sailor statue, and the convention center (home to ComicCon).
Where to eat: Anywhere in Little Italy. See next section for specific spots
(5) India Street
I’m not a big Gaslamp gal (the heart of downtown), but I LOVE Little Italy. When I first moved to San Diego in 2016, I lived here. Walk down India Street, which is lined with San Diego’s top restaurants and fun boutiques. Kettner Blvd, which runs parallel, is also stacked with great spots. This is a food lover’s mecca.
Where to eat: SO many options, here are some of my favorite:
Crack Shack: Chill outdoor fried chicken spot
King and Queen Cantina: Trendy tacos and tasty margaritas
Craft and Commerce: Excellently prepared bougie dishes (no reservations); they also have False Idol, a tiki-inspired speakeasy around back.
Herb & Wood: Cool date night spot
Juniper & Ivy: Posh special occasion joint
RoVino: A solid happy hour and quality food
Ballast Point: Great spot to mingle and sip on a famed San Diego IPA
(6) Seal Rock
I take every San Diego first-timer here. Walk around posh La Jolla before heading to the rock. There isn’t even a barrier between you and the seals. Be smart and wear closed-toed shoes appropriate for a slippery surface.
Where to eat:
El Pescador: Their fresh fish sandwiches are to die for.
(7) Potato Chip Rock
Though an hour's drive outside of San Diego, this is an iconic San Diego hike. It’s 7.6 miles round trip and can get crowded on the weekends. In my opinion, the hike is worth the photo op.
(8) Torrey Pines
Golfers delight at the famed cliffs of Torrey Pines. There are several trails along the cliffs to take in the Pacific breeze. Parking is limited at the trails. You may have to park at the north end of Blacks Beach.
(9) Cabrillo National Monument
Nestled on the far end of Point Loma, this spot offers the most spectacular view of San Diego and the Pacific. My favorite trails include the tide pools and Bayside Trail.
Where to eat: There isn’t a good eatery within walking distance of Cabrillo, but here are my favorites in Point Loma.
Mitch’s seafood: I almost always take San Diego first-timers here. This no-frills fresh seafood joint is located at the marina. You’ll watch fishermen haul in their daily catches.
Liberty Station: The military turned an old Navy base over to the city, and the city converted one building into a food hall. Several top San Diego eateries have locations here. Liberty Station has something for everyone.
Eppig Brewing: The perfect waterfront outdoor brewery; located at the marina.
Other favorite eateries (in suboptimal walking areas)
Sushi Ota: This is hands down my favorite American sushi spot. The restaurant is in a no-frills strip mall. The quality is superb, but you will have to pay for it. Reservations are required most nights. I recommend requesting a spot at the counter/bar; this allows you to watch the chefs slice and dice.
Salud tacos: My favorite San Diego taco joint. This place blew up in popularity a couple of years ago. Go during off-hours to avoid the line.
Convoy Street: Though not a great walking street, this street is lined with San Diego’s best Asian food. Too many options to mention, but I love taking a group to Korean BBQ at Taegukgi.
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