The Hotel del Coronado

Last weekend was not one for day tripping. So let`s talk about one of the best (if not the best) single destination in San Diego County. The Hotel del Coronado or simply `The Del` ( www.hoteldel.com )   is probably that place. The hotel was completed in 1888 and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977. It has been visited by 11 United States Presidents and countless other dignitaries and celebrities. Although this has nothing to do with why we love the Del, it is of interest. The hotel is located on one of the widest beaches in San Diego County. The view from the poolside deck is great at any time of day throughout the year. We tend to enjoy the Del at Christmas because it is decorated so spectacularly inside and out. The tree in the lobby is decorated differently each year and the outside ice skating rink is fun for everyone. You do not need to stay at the hotel to enjoy a visit. So do yourself a favor and take a drive to The Del anytime of year. Have a drink, a sandwich or a great meal at one of their fine restaurants. You will thank yourself later. Merry Christmas!

Bernardo Winery

Sunday was an exceptionally great day for weather. The temperature was in the 80s, the sky was clear and the sun was bright. We get these days here and there each winter, but they still amaze me. Especially when you see a football game in New England or Chicago with snow and 20 degrees.
We decided to take a short drive to the Bernardo Winery and take a walk. This family owned winery is located in northeast Rancho Bernardo. There are about a dozen various shops and of course wine tasting. This is a very pretty place to visit throughout the year. The buildings are old but clean and there are lots of interesting antique tools and gadgets displayed. This is also a great place to experience an arts and crafts show or a concert. It is not really much of a winery anymore, but you will enjoy the unique shops and landscaping.

Old Town and Sunset Cliffs

We had not been to Old Town for some time and decided to have lunch there on Saturday. Old Town is a great place to have Mexican food and walk around. For those who do not know, Old Town is considered by some to be the birthplace of California. This is where Father Junipero Serra built the first of 21 missions in California. The site of the mission is on a hill overlooking Old Town. It was built in 1769. Old Town is a California State Park and has plenty of restaurant choices and even more shops and museums to explore.
After lunch we decided that it would be a good day to head to the beach. The sun was out and there was a low tide that afternoon. The beaches along Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma seemed like a great idea. We were right. We were lucky enough to be two of only a few beach goers to enjoy the beach at low tide. This is a great place to see tide pools and stroll a nearly deserted beach. If you are lucky you may even find some sea glass. I hope we get another chance to go there soon.