Unleashing San Diego’s Top Dog-Friendly Hangouts

If you and your favorite furry friend are looking for the best dog-friendly hotels San Diego has to offer, you will both be in “paw-radise” here at the Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina. Our newly pet-friendly bayfront resort on beautiful Shelter Island features everything you’re looking for when you vacation with pets, including…

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san diego downtown bay with boats

San Diego’s Best Sailing, Whale Watching, & Fishing Spots

Ready to soak up some California sunshine and spend some time on the San Diego Bay? Those who love the coastal lifestyle and want exciting experiences on or near the water will enjoy spending time with us here at the Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina. Our bayfront hotel on Shelter Island is…

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Balboa Park fountain in San Diego CA

Exploring San Diego’s Spring Attractions

Spring has sprung in San Diego, and with it the city is blooming with fresh and exciting new events and activities. From brand-new theme park adventures to cultural celebrations and outdoor explorations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in “America’s Finest City.” Here’s your essential guide to the hottest happenings at these spring San Diego…

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Local’s Guide to Hidden San Diego Spots

Explore the magic of San Diego with its countless reasons to visit. Sure, we’ve got the famous museums, theme parks, and awesome weather that draw crowds year after year. But beyond the tourist hotspots, there’s a whole world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Locals know all about these off-the-beaten-path treasures, and now it’s…

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couple standing on cliff at torrey pines with hanglider in background

Fun and Wallet-Friendly San Diego Date Ideas

Planning to spend some quality time with your sweetie in San Diego? Great choice! Our warm weather, miles of beaches, and breathtaking sunsets make this a dreamy place to do just that. And since much of what makes our stunning seaside city so spectacular comes without much of a price tag attached (if any at…

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beach and cliff view of la jolla

A Long Weekend in San Diego: The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

Planning a long weekend escape in America’s Finest City? With 70 miles of stunning coastline and a diverse range of beachfront, downtown, and suburban neighborhoods, deciding where to start can be a bit overwhelming. Worry not! Here at Island Palms Best Western PLUS Hotel & Marina, we’ve curated a comprehensive 3 day San Diego itinerary,…

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Best Places to Watch the Sunset in San Diego

San Diego’s postcard-perfect coastline, diverse landscapes and mild year-round weather offer a spectacular canvas for nature’s daily masterpiece — the sunset. As the sun gracefully dips below the Pacific horizon, it paints the sky with a nightly light show in hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a magical glow over our southern Californian paradise….

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Get the Dish on San Diego’s Best New Restaurants of 2023

As the sun sets on 2023, we’re taking a flavorful journey down memory lane to revisit the culinary sensations that graced San Diego over the past year. From an avant-garde sushi experience to a nautical-themed speakeasy, we’re highlighting the crème de la crème of San Diego’s local dining scene. Read on to discover the best…

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Santa Claus with a Surfboard in hand

San Diego’s Holiday Parades, Lights & Sights

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to kickstart the festivities than by immersing yourself in the enchanting world of holiday parades and light displays in San Diego! From the mesmerizing twinkling lights along the coastline to joyful parades that light up the streets, San Diego has an array of festive events…

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