Girls’ trips are always fun, but planning one with your gal pals can be a tedious task. This is especially true when you’re trying to cram so many different activities into a short vacation. So, how do you choose the best weekend getaway that allows you and your friends to enjoy every aspect of the destination?
The answer to this is none other than San Diego, California. With so many different things you could do in the city, it’s certainly a no-brainer to take advantage of this city’s beautiful weather and scenery. San Diego offers some of the best outdoor, shopping and spa experiences. Not only is there so much to do here, but everything is relatively close in proximity. With only about 20-25 minutes travel time to almost any hot spot area of this beautiful city, you cannot help but plan your next trip there. Grab your gals and mark your calendars because happiness is calling!
DAY 1: Beach Crawl
La Jolla Cove
With great beaches like La Jolla, Coronado Island, and Mission Beach, you really can’t go wrong with either! Plus, they’re all so close in driving distance that you could easily hit all three in one day, depending on your state of ambition. If you want to get an early morning workout in, head to the Aquatic Center for SUPCore Yoga at Mission Beach. Here you’ll be able to practice yoga on a paddleboard in the water. Or, if you want a little bit more of a sweat session, rent out a kayak from any La Jolla location for a great burn to your shoulders.
You can relax at the Paradise Point Spa afterwards for a traditional Swedish massage or stones massage. If you’re looking for a place to grab a bite to eat, make your way to a local favorite for lunch: Cody’s La Jolla. You can order their famous French toast loaded with candied walnuts, strawberries, and whipped cream made from scratch. This little hole-in-the-wall prides itself on being local and fair-trade. Get there early, though, because it gets packed very quickly.
To top off the evening, head over to Coronado Island and find a cozy corner with a fire pit at the vintage Hotel del Coronado. As long as you order drinks, you’re free to sit anywhere in the area. Watch the sunset off San Diego while sipping cocktails and enjoy listening to some tunes from a live band.
DAY 2: Mission Valley
Gaslamp Quarter
Now that you’ve soaked up enough sun from a day at the beach, head to Mission Valley to shop until you drop. Fashion Valley Mall and Westfield Mission Valley Mall host high-end shopping as well as some specialty stores. Fashion Valley also has some great restaurants, such as Boudin’s and True Noodles, to feed your energy and appetite.
Then, hop on the San Diego Trolley to Old Town for some traditional fish tacos and Mexican margaritas. Old Town is the birthplace of California where you’ll find historic flare with modern twists. You can’t help but notice the cultural music and environment as you walk the neighborhood’s narrow streets.
Spend the rest of your evening in downtown where the Gaslamp Quarter awaits. With a tremendous amount of great bars and eateries to choose from, there’s no dull moment here. If you’re looking for a sugary pick-me-up, pop into the Ghiradelli store/café to satisfy that sweet tooth. The crowds are a mix of tourists and locals who, depending on the season, may all be coming from a Padres’ game down the street, ready to celebrate a great ballgame.
DAY 3: Point Loma Peninsula
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park (Point Loma)
It’s the last day, and you want to wind down a bit before going to the airport. Jump start your morning by visiting the Liberty Public Market at Liberty Station. You can indulge in some fresh, local, and artisanal foods. With over 30 artisans to choose from, you’re bound to find something to satiate that appetite of yours.
Digest that amazing breakfast by lounging at the Carbillo National Monument. This intertidal zone boasts a unique ecosystem of plants, fish, and invertebrates, and you’ll be rewarded with absolutely stunning views of downtown San Diego, the bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
Go ahead ladies: pack your bags, jet set, go!
Plan Your Next Girls’ Trip to San Diego https://t.co/8rhQmIF2ge
— Uncharted101.com (@Uncharted1o1) December 31, 2016
Author’s bio: Jane Grates comes from Copenhagen, Denmark, and is a certified ultramarathon distance runner who loves to travel as well. When not preparing for a race or traveling, Jane keeps busy by managing her website Nicershoes. Aside from that, she also curates content for Runnerclick.com.
