One San Diego Vacation, Four Different Experiences

San Diego earned the appellation of “America’s Finest City” for a variety of reasons. There’s truly something for everyone here — no matter what brings you to town. From beautiful beaches to world-class food to amazing attractions, every type of traveler will be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding amazing things to do. With that in mind, we thought it would be fun to take a look at what your weekend San Diego vacation might look like depending on what type of traveler you are. 

San Diego for Families

Traveling with kids? You’d be hard-pressed to find a more fun-packed destination than San Diego. If you have young animal lovers in the family, you’ll want to check out the San Diego Zoo (which was recently voted the #1 zoo in the world by TripAdvisor). Kids also always have a great time learning about marine life at SeaWorld San Diego. Want to take your kids on a “they’ll have so much fun they’ll forget they’re learning” adventure? Don’t miss the many world-class museums at Balboa Park (such as the Fleet Science Center and San Diego Natural History Museum). And there’s just no beating the classic fun at Belmont Park, which offers the sort of timeless boardwalk theme-park experience only Southern California can really deliver. Activities, games, and other fun distractions can easily fill a day’s worth of sun-filled fun.

San Diego for Couples 

Thanks to our stunning sunsets, endless beaches and cozy eateries, San Diego is the perfect spot for a couple’s getaway. First, head to the famous Little Italy neighborhood where there are more romantic restaurants than you can shake a breadstick at. Taking a charming sunset cruise can be a great way to enjoy the water as you watch the daylight slip below the horizon. Then stroll hand-in-hand along one of our picturesque beaches while you stargaze to your heart’s content. Upon rising, take a trek to Barrio Logan to check out the city’s most vibrant nexus of culture, music, and art. Then, reach out to the alfresco dining experts at Hidden Picnics. They specialize in creating outdoor experiences that impress and inspire, with waterfront dining being a particular area of focus.   

San Diego for Business Travelers

San Diego is one of the country’s most popular destinations for professional travelers, and it’s not hard to see why. Ours is a very business-forward city, with several international corporations headquartered in the metro. In addition, our meeting spaces and convention centers are second to none. Of course, when the briefcases are closed and it’s time to knock off for the day, professional visitors will discover no end of fantastic ways to mix business and pleasure. Working remotely as our guest?  Put in some hours by our pool, close your laptop at 4:59 and walk over to the Blue Wave Bar & Grill for our 5 o’clock Happy Hour. Rather utilize a co-working space? San Diego has your back there, too. The lively nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter delivers on the promise of a great time around every corner, while downtown dining at restaurants like STK San Diego, Bandar, Saltwater and Huntress offer the sorts of plates those on expense accounts will appreciate. And if you’re really looking for an adventure, invest the effort to hunt down one of San Diego’s secret speakeasies. There’s truly no end to all of the ways you can work and play on San Diego Bay.

San Diego for a Friends’ Spring Break

Heading to San Diego for a friends’ spring break getaway? Good choice. Not only do our perfect year-round weather and stunning beaches offer the ideal warm and sunny escape, but no matter what your group is looking for, our fun-loving city provides an endless array of options for the best friends trip ever. Every spring break getaway should include the beach, brunch, and your besties. Check out a post from our our sister hotel Humphreys Half Moon Inn for your guide to the best brunch spots in town, as well as our blog on our favorite local beach bars. Wondering which neighborhood is best for your particular friend group? Check out this guide to San Diego’s best neighborhoods from our colleagues at The Dana on Mission Bay. Still hungry for adventure? We also recommend the fun idea of spending an afternoon on a sailing trip with our neighbors at Next Level Sailing, followed by some time spent lounging at our outdoor pool and jacuzzi.

 

Regardless of your reasons for paying us a visit here in San Diego, you’ll no doubt discover lots of reasons to love it. And there’s no better place to call home while you’re here than Best Western Island Palms. We offer a central location, competitive rates, and lots of guest-first touches you’re sure to love. Be sure to take a look at our Special Offers page to select the travel deal that’s right for you. We look forward to being your host!