Hotel del Coronado at Christmas

A trip to the Hotel del Coronado on Christmas Eve is a tradition in our family. The hotel is decorated for the season and usually the weather is the envy of the rest of the world. We are so lucky to have a gem like the ` Del` to visit. This grand hotel has been wowing the world since it opened in 1888 as the largest resort hotel in the world (at that time). It was also the first to use electric lighting. It is hard to believe that the hotel has been around so long. The buildings and grounds are in excellent condition, which is not a minor task considering the number of people that visit each year. At Christmas there is ice skating outside by the beach and the deck overlooking the ocean is full of people enjoying a cool drink in the plentiful sunshine. This is a great place anytime of year, but Christmas Eve is even more special. Enjoy!
For more information see- http://www.hoteldel.com/

Hillcrest Farmers Market

The Hillcrest Farmers Market calls itself the best in San Diego. This is a great farmers market that takes place every Sunday from 9:00am to 2:00pm at the Hillcrest DMV 3960 Normal St. There are lots of farmers markets in San Diego and this is one of the largest. The market started in 1997 and there are currently around 125 vendors. The variety of vendors and attendees makes this one of our favorites. There is typically music and there is always great food. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.hillcrestfarmersmarket.com/

Orfila Vineyards and Winery

Orfila Vineyards and Winery is a fun place to spend a few hours. This small winery is located just a few miles east of Interstate 15 just north of Lake Hodges. Orfila produces several types of wines and is in a beautiful setting in the San Pasqual Valley. In fact, the vineyard was originally San Pasqual Winery when it started back in 1973. The Orfila change has helped take this winery up several notches. They have done a nice job with the grounds and their wines continue to improve. If you are looking for a place to taste some great wine and maybe have a picnic, this is a good choice. The vineyards have a view of the Vineyard Golf Course to the south and it`s hilltop setting allows that welcome afternoon breeze. Next time you are headed for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (formerly the San Diego Wild Animal Park) or shopping at the Westfield North County Mall visit Orfila. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.orfila.com/

December Nights at Balboa Park

It is that time of year again. The Holidays are upon us and there is a chill in the air. We will not have snow, but we can still celebrate the season in San Diego.
December Nights at Balboa Park is a free event that has been a tradition for 34 years. There are Christmas trees decorated throughout the park and lots of music, displays and food. There are even a few adult beverages sold if you do not want coffee and hot chocolate. The International Cottages sell traditional food from their respective countries. This is a fun way for the family to get into the holiday mood. The only downside to this great event is the parking and traffic. With 300,000 people expected over the two days, the roads and parking lots tend to stretch your patience a bit. But then 300,000 people would not attend something that is not fun on a Friday and Saturday in December. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.visitdecembernights.org/

Petco Park Tours

Most people are aware that Petco Park is the home of the San Diego Padre Major League Baseball team. The stadium saw it`s first regular season game on April 8, 2004. The stadium was completed at a cost of $450 million and has helped to revitalize downtown San Diego. The location of the stadium affords views of the San Diego bayfront including the Coronado Bay Bridge and the San Diego Convention Center. The tours run nearly every day and the cost is minimal. This is a great way to find out more about the stadium, the Padres and get a chance to go behind the scenes, in the dugout and on the playing field. If you are a baseball fan, you should put this on your list when you are in downtown San Diego. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.sandiego.padres.mlb.com/

Libraries

We usually try to write about somewhere that is fun or interesting as a weekend destination. Last weekend was one of those stay inside weekends, so we thought that we would mention the fantastic library system in San Diego. Libraries are a fun place to get `FREE` information. We are lucky to have two library systems here. We have a library system run by the County of San Diego and another run by the City of San Diego. They each have over 30 branches and continue to be updated with new facilities and materials. Benjamin Franklin in his wildest dreams could not have imagined such fine facilities. The branches are clean and well stocked with lots of reading and listening materials. Some have said that libraries are a thing of the past due in part to the internet. We think that they are still a great way to enjoy books, audio books, music CDs and movies. If you have not been to a libray recently, you may be surprised. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.sdcl.org/ (county libray) or www.sandiego.gov/public-library/ (city library)

America`s Cup San Diego

The America`s Cup World Series San Diego is taking place November 12-20, 2011. This is a unique opportunity to see the fastest yachts in the world racing on San Diego Bay. The America`s Cup trophy was first won by America in 1851 by the schooner America. At that time the trophy was called the `One Hundred Guinea Cup`. The trophy was renamed when the America won the race against what was thought to be a much superior English team. The trophy is said to be the oldest in international sport. If you get a chance go down to San Diego Bay for this event. One of the best spots to view the event is at the foot of Broadway or on the USS Midway Museum. Enjoy!
For more information see www.americascup.com/sandiego or http://www.midway.org/

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

The Stephen Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego in La Jolla is a great place to learn about the ocean. The aquariums and other exhibits are well designed for both children and adults. There is always something new and the view from here is spectacular. There are lots of aquariums with specimens from the tropics to the cold northern waters. Besides the many smaller aquariums there is a huge aquarium and a large interactive tidepool. The admission is reasonable and there are memberships for those that would like to visit more often. Parking is free and plentiful and food and beverages are available. Each summer the third Wednesday of the month is reserved for adults only and they have a charity concert sponsored by KPRI a local radio station. The entertainers are top names and the sunset is something to remember. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.aquarium.ucsd.edu/ and www.kprifm.com/pages/green_flash

San Diego Fly Fishers

The San Diego Fly Fishers club hold a FREE fly fishing clinic every Sunday from 9:00 am until noon at Lake Murray. These experienced fly fishermen will teach you everything that you need to know to start fly fishing. They hold a class explaining the equipment, knots and terms used in fly fishing at 9:00 sharp. After this informative class you will have the opportunity to practice casting with a fly rod. They provide all of the equipment and have plenty of expert instructors on hand to help you learn enough to go it on your own. If you have never used a fly rod or if you would like to improve your skills this is the place for you. These guys really know their stuff and want to share their vast knowledge with anyone interested in fly fishing. This is a true gem for all of us in San Diego. Enjoy!
For more information go to http://www.sandiegoflyfishers.com/

San Diego Polo

Sunday October 2, 2011 was the Spreckels Cup Finals. It was also the last polo match of the season in San Diego. The San Diego Polo Field is just east of the Del Mar Fairgrounds along Via de la Valle. This is a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Admission is inexpensive and there is a nice shaded viewing area with good food and drink. You may want to tailgate on the other side of the field and bring your own food and drink including alcohol. Polo is not just for the rich anymore. The dress is casual and there is a low key fun feel to the event. You are sure to enjoy the match and the divot stomp at half time. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.sandiegopolo.com/

Pacific Beach Fest

There are always more events in San Diego than any one person could attend. The Pacific Beach Fest was going on the same day as the Miramar Air Show, several Octoberfests, Julian Apple Days and who knows how many others. We decided on Pacific Beach because we wanted to see if the red tide was still going and normally anything at the beach gets our vote. The Pacific Beach Fest was along the boardwalk with the center point near Crystal Pier. Crystal Pier is the only place in San Diego that you can rent a cottage on a pier and sleep over the ocean. When we have high surf in the winter, you can feel the pier moving with the wave action.
The `PB Fest` had two stages for music and plenty of food and merchandise booths. They had a surf competition, a volleyball tournament and of course great food and music. This is a fun `street fair` on another super weather day in San Diego. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.pacificbeachfest.org/ or http://www.crystalpier.com/

San Diego Blues Festival

Saturday September 17, 2011 was the first annual `AimLoan.com San Diego Blues Festival` at Embarcadero Marina Park North. This is a not for profit event to benefit the Jacobs & Cushman San Diego Food Bank. The admission was $10 and two cans of food. There have been other blues festivals in San Diego, but to our knowledge none were for charity. The corporate sponsors take care of the expenses and volunteers man the event so the proceeds can go to the food bank. The setting on the bay was excellent and the weather was great (as always in San Diego). There were great bands, lots of food and drink and a very open enjoyable setting for enjoying it all. If you like music, this is for you. Look for this event next year. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.sdbluesfest.com/

Art Walk on the Bay

On September 10 and 11, 2011 there was an art show in front of the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel. This fine arts festival was a well laid out affair on a grassy area just south of the convention center on San Diego Bay. The art ranged from photography to jewelry to paintings to ceramics. There were musical performers (6 each day) and food concessions with a variety of choices.
We have walked portions the boardwalk along the bay from the San Diego Convention Center north along Seaport Village to the Maritime Museum many times, but had not gone south to the Hilton area. This newer addition is nicely planned out and not as busy as the northern boardwalk. Even without an event, this is a wonderful place to visit in the downtown area. There are great views from every vantage point. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.artwalkonthebay.org/ http://www.seaportvillage.com/ http://www.sdmaritime.org/

Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is a California State Park located just north of downtown San Diego and east of Interstate 5. Old Town has restaurants, shops and museums. It is the birth place of California and a great place to walk around or enjoy a meal and a drink at one of the 30 plus restaurants. The area is well kept and there are a number of special events throughout the year. This is a great way to discover the history of San Diego whether you are 6 or 60. If you have someone from out of town, there is probably no other place that will offer so much history, shopping and food options. Enjoy!
For more information: http://www.oldtownsandiego.org/ or http://www.oldtownsandiegoguide.com/

Carlsbad

Carlsbad California is one of those cities that has everything. The weather is fantastic due to it`s coastal location. The beaches are some of the best in California. There is also Agua Hedionda Lagoon where you can sail and water ski. The 100,000 plus residents enjoy great shopping malls, 5 golf courses, the famous Carlsbad Flower Fields, an airport, two train stations, Legoland and a great downtown area with restaurants and shops galore. That is really only part of the many attractions in Carlsbad.
Here is something for the history buffs. Back in 1886 John Frazier drilled a well and tapped into artesian and mineral springs. An analysis of the mineral water showed the same properties as the famous health spa in Karlsbad, Bohemia. Thus the name Carlsbad. Carlsbad was not incorporated until 1952. Visit Carlsbad and you will find something to get excited about. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.carlsbadca.gov/ http://www.legoland.com/   www.premiumoutlets.com/carlsbad/

Alpine, Ca

Alpine California is a small unincorporated city in east San Diego County along Highway 8.. Alpine has approximately 14,000 inhabitants. Most of us know the area for the Viejas Indian Reservation. Viejas has a great casino, entertainment venue and some of the nicer shopping outlets anywhere. Alpine is also home to the Alpine Brewing Company. The brewery was started in 2002 by owner and brew master Pat Mcilhenney. This small but popular brewery is putting out some spectacular beers and now has a small restaurant with some very good food. When you are driving out Highway 8 in east county make sure that you visit Viejas and Alpine Brewing. You will not be disappointed. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.viejas.com/ and http://www.alpinebeerco.com/

Surfing Contests at Oceanside Pier

On Saturday August 13, 2011 on the south side of Oceanside Pier there was a surfing event. The Oceanside Longboard Surfing Club had a contest and Supergirl Pro Surfing also had a contest. It is always fun to see great surfing even when the sun decides not to show itself. The longboard contest even had an event with two people riding on the board together doing tricks. The Supergirl contest consisted of some of the top female surfers 20 and under. These women own the waves. The surf was nice and there was music and lots of food for everyone. Oceanside Pier is a nice place for a stroll any day. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.oceansidelongboardsurfingclub.org/ and http://www.supergirl.com/  

Horse Racing at Del Mar

The races are here! They started on July 20th and the last race of the season is September 7, 2011. This is my favorite time of year in San Diego. There is nothing quite like a day in Del Mar. I like to start with some beach time in the morning. Then possibly some lunch either at the beach or one of the many nearby restaurants. The races do not start until 2:00 on most days so this leaves plenty of time for beach time and lunch. The Del Mar Races are more than horse racing. They have concerts after the races, the infield has activities for children and there are few better places to see the beautiful people. The races are on my `A` list for summer fun. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.dmtc.com/

Bocce Ball

Bocce Ball is a game that was developed in Italy and has become popular in many parts of the world. San Diego has a number of bocce ball courts throughout the city. The photo above is Balboa Park.  Some people even play bocce ball on sand. In fact, last weekend was a Bocce Ball Charity Tournament at dog beach in Del Mar. This tournament has been played for 26 years and has raised around $350,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Carlsbad. There were nearly 500 people participating in this years tournament. There are  formal bocce ball courts in Balboa Park, Encinitas, Ranch Bernardo and of course Little Italy. This is a fun game that can be played at all levels and does not require a formal court to be enjoyed!
For more information see www.bocceballrules.net

La Jolla Cove and Open Aire Market

La Jolla Cove is a very small beach that is best known for great snorkeling. It is also a great place for a long swim. `The Cove` as it is called by locals is in a protected marine reserve and no fishing is allowed. This is possibly the most beautiful beach in San Diego. The water is typically clear and calm. The beach area is small but there is a large grass area above the cove for sunbathing and picnicing. On most summer Sunday afternoons there is live music.This is a great place to see garibaldi, lobster, seals and a variety of other marine life. We like to come here just for a walk when the water is cold, but to really appreciate the beach you need to go out in the water. `The Cove` is a must for everyone to see. Enjoy!                                                    Go to www.sandiego.gov/lifeguards/beaches/cove.shtml

Another great way to spend a few hours in La Jolla is at the La Jolla Open Aire Market from 9:00AM to 1:00PM on Sundays. The market is at La Jolla Elementary School at Girard Avenue and Genter Street. This is a large farmers market with lots of produce, prepared foods and other miscellaneous items for sale. We think it is one of the best in the county because of the variety and comfortable setting. Check this one out. You will not be disappointed.  See http://www.lajollamarket.com/

San Diego Harbor Drive

One of the best places to enjoy a walk along San Diego Harbor is Harbor Drive between the Maritime Museum and the Convention Center. The Maritime Museum is the home of the Star of India, the Berkeley and several other vessels including a submarine. This walk will take you by the cruise ship terminal, the Midway Museum, the tuna fleet and Seaport Village. There are several great restaurants along the way including Anthony`s and The Fish Market. You can take this walk at any time of the year and parking is abundant. Plan on a meal and don`t forget to take a boat ride. This is definitely a great way to spend a day. Enjoy!
For more information see: www.sdtunaboats.com http://www.midway.org/ www.sdmaritime.org www.seaportvillage.com www.thefishmarket.com www.gofishanthonys.com and www.sandiegotours.us

KPRI Private Listener Concerts

KPRI is a locally owned and operated San Diego radio station. They play a variety of current and classic rock music. One of the coolest things about the station is what they call `Private Listener Concerts`. These are small venue concerts with artists that are on their way up. These are not necessarily new artists. But they are normally artists with a current hit. Past venues have been- Bernardo Winery, Rancho Bernardo Inn, Lexus Escondido and everyone`s favorite Hornblower Yachts. The Hornblower Yachts are a fleet of yachts on San Diego Bay. Hornblower does sightseeing cruises for whale watching, brunch, weddings and other special events. San Diego Bay has lots to see and the music on these cruises has been stellar. On Sunday June 26, 2011 the band was `Burlap to Cashmere` and as always they were great. You`ll need to sign up on KPRI`s website to get an invitation. Enjoy!
For more information see http://www.kprifm.com/ http://www.hornblower.com/ and http://www.burlaptocashmere.com/