Planning a San Diego Staycation

Warmer weather has arrived. Normalcy is beginning to return. And as many businesses reopen, attractions begin welcoming guests, and travel options are back on the table, many of us are eager to once again start planning those much-needed getaways. 

If you’re among those hoping to return to traveling, but aren’t completely ready to plan an all-out vacation, then we have a safer solution: the classic staycation. By sticking closer to home, you can minimise expenses and risks while still enjoying the benefits of an escape.

Here are some handy tips for planning a staycation that’s sure to raise your spirits. 

Become a “Tourist” in Your Own Town

You won’t be surprised to hear that we love where we live. San Diego’s perfect year-round weather, endless beaches, and exceptional attractions are all a big part of the reason why. But no matter where you are, there’s bound to be another great American city that’s within a hop, skip, and jump from where you’re sitting. So planning a getaway can be as easy as doing a little advance research in order to find out what makes your region special. Whatever your areas of interest (restaurants, museums, tours, breweries, wineries, etc.) your town is certain to have lots of great stuff to do that you’ve never explored before. So make a list of the things in your backyard that you’ve always meant to check out, and get out there!

(Photo: @sandiegoreader)

Avoid the Rut of Routine

We all like to start our day with coffee, a donut, or maybe even a full breakfast, which means it’s easy to fall into a pattern of automatically heading to the same handful of reliable stops to get the things we know we like. Frequenting the same neighborhoods, the same eateries, and the same old haunts is just human nature. So your staycation is an opportunity to be adventurous! Make the conscious choice to head to another area of town and see what other places have to offer. Every city we’ve ever been to is brimming with fun surprises, and they’re most likely to reveal themselves when you decide to take the road less traveled. 

(Photo: @visitsandiego)

What’s Your Perfect Day?

Spontaneity definitely has its place. Still, planning an itinerary of things you know you’re going to enjoy can be a great way to ensure you’ll get the most out of your time. Into live music? Check out your city’s alternative weekly newspaper or entertainment website and catch some local bands in action. Animal enthusiast? Plan a visit to a sanctuary, zoo, or aquarium. Need a laugh? Stand-up comedy is coming back in a big way. Fan of artistic expression? Your town’s art galleries and museums no doubt have all kinds of fascinating exhibits. Regardless of your hobbies and interests, your town has almost definitely found a way to indulge them. 

(Photo: @island_palms)

Indulge in Some Self-Care

Stress is an unfortunate fact of life. Family, jobs, obligations — everyone has their own responsibilities and the pressure that accompanies them. If you enjoy a little relaxation, then a trek to a day spa is a great way to enjoy your staycation time. Checking into a palace of pampering and choosing from a menu of massage, sauna, skin treatments, mineral soaks, float therapy, and other revitalizing treatments can really refresh and renew in unexpected ways. You owe it to yourself to let go and relax once in a while, and your little break from reality is the perfect time to do exactly that.

(Photo: @hautespasalon)

Unplug to Unwind

This may be the most challenging suggestion, but it’s important. Just because you’re not getting on a plane, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take your downtime seriously. If you’re going to take a staycation, then commit to it. Put in some paid time off at work. Take those vacation days! Let those close to you know that you’ll be stepping back from commitments and duties and taking a little “me time” — which means you’ll be unavailable. And then stick to that. Don’t check your email. Set an “out of office” response. Log completely out of your professional life. Obviously, emergencies are a different matter. But by committing to giving yourself a break and then following through, you’ll truly be able to dedicate the necessary time to unwinding in style.

Check In to Best Western Plus Island Palms

If you’re lucky enough to live within reach of us, then don’t miss your chance to check in with the staycation experts. Our bayside hideaway offers everything you could possibly need to enjoy your head-earned break. Plush guest rooms, a breathtaking Shelter Island location overlooking San Diego Bay, warm hospitality, on-site dining and cocktails, and everything just steps from the water. Relax in your room, stroll along the nearby boardwalk, lounge poolside with a cocktail — how you staycation is entirely up to you. 

(Photo: @island_palms)

Be sure to check out our special offers and packages, and pick the experience that’s right for you. We look forward to helping you unwind!