a couple standing on a cliff above the ocean with a parasailer in the background
01 Feb 2024

Fun and Wallet-Friendly San Diego Date Ideas

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

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 all!), San Diego is also a particularly easy place to enjoy yourself without emptying your bank account. So if you’re on the hunt for some fun and affordable San Diego date ideas that won’t break the bank? You’ve come to the right place.

Plan a Picnic at Sunset Cliffs

a couple reclining on the cliffs over the water

(Photo: @michelledudleyphotography)

There’s just something about putting down a blanket and laying out a spread of delicious food that really makes any date one to remember. Given San Diego’s abundant public park space and endless stretches of beach, there are plenty of places to do just that completely free. However, we suggest the absolutely stunning Sunset Cliffs, a natural oceanfront sandstone formation that provides gorgeous Pacific views, and — of course — breathtaking sunsets. 

Do the Dipper

Aerial view of Belmont Park at Sunset

(Photo: @belmontparksd)

Belmont Park is a timeless boardwalk-style waterfront rides-and-games destination located in picturesque Mission Beach, and it features a can’t-miss experience: the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. The Dipper is a classic wooden coaster with more twists and turns than a mystery novel, and it’s a bucket-lister for any coaster enthusiast. Belmont Park is also home to mini-golf, rock climbing, and classic oceanside dining. Not to mention that it’s all right on the beach, which is always a romantic spot to bring a date!

Visit Our Beautiful Beaches

a couple on the beach at sunset

(Photo: @terrin.anne)

San Diego is world-renowned for its eternally beautiful beaches, and for good reason. With over 70 miles of coastline of varying types (cliffs, beaches, rocky shores, tide pools, etc.), there’s truly a beach for everyone. And since the vast majority are public, the two of you are always welcome to simply take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the warm sea breezes to your heart’s content free of charge. Not sure where to start? This handy guide from our sister property Humphreys Half Moon Inn is a good resource to help you decide.

Mini Golf at The Loma Club

a couple playing putt putt golf

(Photo: @lilyjava)

Looking for a fun date activity and a little friendly competition? The Loma Club’s nine-hole golf course draws duffers from all over the area. But locals know the club is also home to Tappers Mini Golf & Cocktails, a great place to practice your putting even if you aren’t in the mood for a round of full-sized fairways. Best of all, The Loma Club is located within Liberty Station — just a short trip away. 

Hop on the Ferry

a couple riding bikes on the landing

(Photo: @coronadoferrylandingshops)

Take a quick trip on the Coronado Ferry to visit one of the most scenic spots in the city: Coronado Island. It’s a speedy jaunt that offers a visually spectacular and economical option for getting across the bay. You’ll be able to enjoy panoramic water views while you experience one of the city’s most visited areas. For the best eyeful of the water and skyline, locals know to grab a seat on the roof of the ferry during the trek.

Explore Balboa Park

a couple sitting on the bridge over the pond at Balboa Park

(Photo: @anna_lev_95)

Balboa Park isn’t just a crown jewel of San Diego — it’s one of the largest urban park spaces in the country. In fact, at 842 acres, Balboa Park is even bigger than Central Park in New York! In addition to representing a lushly gorgeous slice of green space, Balboa is home to some of San Diego’s most acclaimed museums, restaurants, and public art — making it the ideal place to enjoy a lovely and leisurely low-cost date for two without having to spend a single cent. 

The Carlsbad Flower Fields

a couple kissing in a field of flowers

(Photo: @the_flower_fields)

Head just a bit up the coast to Carlsbad, and you’ll be able to take in one of the most jaw-dropping views southern California has to offer: the Carlsbad Flower Fields. The lovely landscape here is home to the sweeping beauty of 50-plus acres of vibrantly colorful Tecolote Ranunculus blooms stretching out as far as the eye can see. The Carlsbad Flower Fields are a popular destination for visitors due to their incredible beauty, as well as some engaging on-site activities, perfect for couples. The Flower Fields open to the public on March 1st.

Visit the La Jolla Seals

aerial view of a beach full of seals

(Photo: @abstractseagull)

SeaWorld is always a great place to go if you want to check out some marine life. But if you’d like to get even closer to nature, a famous colony of seals and sea lions lives near the Children’s Pool in La Jolla. Be sure to bring your camera to capture these playful animals and special someone to enjoy the views with!

Mount Soledad

woman standing on top of a mountain overlooking the ocean

(Photo: @danivwc)

If you’re looking for an elevated perspective, you’ll want to head to the peak of Mount Soledad, more than 800 feet above the city. From there, together you’ll enjoy an unobstructed view of the entire area, including cityscapes, lush vegetation, and a sweeping look at miles of coastline stretching out to the edge of the world. It’s also a fantastic place to catch one of our world-famous sunsets.

San Diego Museum Month

two men in a hall of mirrors

(Photo: @thejoshramirez)

Our fair city is home to more than its fair share of truly excellent, world-class museums. And while most usually charge a nominal admission fee, every February here is San Diego Museum Month. During this month, many of our most notable institutions lower the ticket price significantly, and more than a few are completely free. It’s the perfect wallet-friendly date!

Visit Torrey Pines State Reserve

a couple standing on a cliff above the ocean with a parasailer in the background

(Photo: @mariadavisphoto)

For a truly unique San Diego experience you simply can’t get anywhere else, head to Torrey Pines State Reserve. The area is beautiful, the ocean views are spectacular, and there’s lots to check out — including the extremely rare tree from which the park draws its name. The area is criss-crossed with low-impact hiking trails, so there’s absolutely no better spot to take one of those classic, starry-eyed sunset strolls along the waterfront. So why not bring a picnic, a blanket for a little post-sunset stargazing, and your camera to catch the paragliders at the gliderport? 

Grab Some Souvenir Snapshots

a couple standing in front of a San Diego bilboard

(Photo: @odysseyoftwo)

Looking for some cost-free souvenirs? We’re sure happy couples will find that San Diego is chock-full of great places to take some “I was there” photos — both to remember their trip, and impress their friends. From lauded local landmarks to uniquely fashionable shops and restaurants, there are vivid vistas around every corner. If you’d like to hit some of the highlights, check out this post (from our sister property Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle) and get up to speed on where to find San Diego’s Most Instagrammable Spots. 

Enjoy Shelter Island at Best Western Island Palms 

a couple kissing under an archway near the marina

Island Palms makes our home on Shelter Island, one of the most picturesque areas in the city. Unique points of interest such as our fishing pier, marina, art installations, sailing charters and waterfront walking path all make our little oasis an undeniably fantastic place to enjoy San Diego together. When you’re ready to check it out, be sure to take a look at our comfortable accommodations and exclusive offers (including our Valentine’s Day Dining Package at Blue Wave Bar & Grill!

woman in a yellow sweater riding a scooter past a bright purple wall
01 Jul 2023

No Car, No Problem

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

When visiting a new city, it’s important to make a plan for how you’ll be getting to everywhere you want to be. Despite Southern California’s reputation as a driver-centric destination, San Diego offers all the conveniences of any modern metropolis. With a growing public transportation system, bike paths, boardwalks, ferries, and more to take advantage of, it’s easier than ever to discover how to get around San Diego without a car.

Getting to Island Palms

exterior of San Diego airport

First things first: you’re going to want to get to us at Island Palms! There are several ways available to reach us. If you’re flying into San Diego International Airport (which is only 2.3 miles from us!), you can make use of the skybridge from both Terminals 1 and 2, and make your way to the airport’s Transportation Plaza. At the Transportation Plaza, you will find rideshares, buses, and taxicabs — all of which are convenient, and staffed by helpful folks who know the ins and outs of the city better than just about anyone. However you reach us, we’re happy you did!

Catch the Trolley…

a red public transit train

The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System is an easy and economical way to get around San Diego County. Known as “The Trolley,” San Diego’s metro trains service over 50 areas of the city and run on three lines — including the newly expanded Blue Line, which has recently added multiple stops. Riders can use the Trolley to reach many of the city’s most popular attractions. At just $2.50 for a one-way ticket to any station, and $8 for a Day Pass (which is good for the whole day), this option is both efficient and budget-friendly. Need to find a stop? The MTS offers a handy reference map right here.

…Or the Bus

a city bus

MTS also offers an extensive series of bus routes that can take you just about anywhere you need to be all around the city. The best part? Your transit pass can be used all day on any route MTS offers — which includes both the bus, and the Trolley. So if there’s somewhere you’d like to go, MTS can get you there! And that includes within steps of Island Palms right here on Shelter Island. 

Take a Trolley Tour 

a green and orange trolley

Speaking of trolleys — when you’re looking to do a little sightseeing, Old Town Trolley Tours offers excellent hop-on / hop-off “transportainment” tours through some of San Diego’s most can’t-miss areas. Every tour is narrated by friendly local historians who know the city inside and out, so expect fun stories, informative trivia, more than 100 points of interest, and a relaxing ride. Every tour also includes complimentary admission to 10 of the city’s best museums, so you’ll have something to look forward to even after you de-board! 

Hop on Commuter Rail

a commuter train

Looking for a quick trip either to, or along the beach? You’ve got some very handy options in the form of light rail. The COASTER line offers both transportation, and breathtaking beachside scenery as it traverses between Oceanside and downtown. Trains depart the station at numerous points  every day, so check here for pricing and schedules. Additionally, the Pacific Surfliner connects downtown and Old Town with the coastal communities north of the city (including Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Oceanside). These trains offer visitors car-free access to some of the most charming beach communities in the region, as well as a relaxing ride with stunning views.

Take A San Diego Seal Tour

an amphibious vehicle

…And we don’t mean the adorable flippered animals (although you can visit them in La Jolla Cove, at SeaWorld San Diego, or at Birch Aquarium). San Diego SEAL Tours offers an experience you simply can’t have anywhere else. A “seal” is the term used to refer to an amphibious vehicle that’s half bus, half boat, and 100% fun! During a Seal tour, the whole family can climb aboard, drive directly into the water, and see the city sights. It’s truly one of the best times you can have on land and sea. 

Explore by Bike

rental bicycles

(Photo: @island_palms)

San Diego is ranked as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the nation, so getting around town on two wheels is a popular transportation option. Riders can enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze, and get some exercise while they’re at it. Going to the beach? Cruise the route known as the Bayshore Bikeway, a 24-mile path reserved for cyclists, providing riders with a convenient way to commute safely without having to worry about sharing the road with motor vehicles. Need a bike? You’re in luck! Island Palms offers guests complimentary two-hour bike rentals. Just ask the front desk, and we’ll get you on the road!

Take a Walk

a public walkway next to the beach

Stroll along Shelter Island for scenic views of the marina, or head to the shore and discover the bustling stretch of boardwalk between Mission Beach and Pacific Beach. The Boardwalk connects these popular destinations and is brimming with restaurants, specialty shops, bars, and more. Wherever you stroll, you’ll find that stopping to smell the roses gives you time to enjoy just how spectacular San Diego’s scenery really is.

Hop on the Ferry

If you’re looking to venture across the bay to Coronado Island, be sure to hop on the Coronado Ferry. This 15-minute cruise is perfect for those who enjoy being on the water and offers a scenic, reasonably priced option for getting across the bay. Not only will you be able to enjoy panoramic water views, but you’ll also experience one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Pro tip: Grab a seat on the roof for better views of the bay.

Coronado Ferry

Share the Ride

a phone with rideshare app icons

Ride-sharing is always a great option if you need to travel longer distances than a bike or your feet can take you. Uber and Lyft are the two most prominent, but upstart rideshare service Bounce is also making inroads in the San Diego market. A ride to just about anywhere in the metro can be ordered via smartphone apps in minutes. Ultimately, you’re never far from your next ride, and the fares are usually quite reasonable.

Find FRED

three people standing next to a FRED shuttle

(Photo: @fredsandiego)

FRED (an acronym for Free Ride Everywhere Downtown) is a convenient shuttle that operates in San Diego’s downtown area. The hours and coverage area are a bit limited, but if you’re already downtown, these electric, open-air shuttles are easy to hop on and off from nearly any street corner. And if you need to travel further afield, FRED makes many stops that can connect you with other mass-transit options with a wider reach.

Get Scooting

a row of rental scooters

Electric scooters from companies like Bird and Spin have recently begun to pop up in many urban centers, and San Diego is no exception. These convenient and fun “last mile” transportation options are easy to ride, and even easier to access. Just download the corresponding app, use a GPS-linked map to find a scooter, and unlock it with your smartphone. From there, you can zip around to your heart’s content — you’re only charged for the amount of time you spend on-board.

Cab It

In addition to ride-share services, San Diego is also home to many traditional taxi companies. Each is only a phone call away and will be happy to take you anywhere you’d like to be. Andy’s Cab (619-981-0621), AK Cab (619-306-9761), and City Captain Transportation (619-800-3515) are all highly rated by locals and visitors alike.

archway at entrance of Historic San Diego

Explore San Diego From Island Palms

Want to take advantage of these convenient modes of transportation to get around our beautiful city? The team at Best Western Plus Island Palms will be more than happy to help you plan your car-free itinerary. Check out our latest offers and start planning your stay today!

a fishing rod
01 Jul 2022

Best Fishing Charters in San Diego

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Anglers rejoice: San Diego has long been renowned as a vibrant global sport fishing hub. In fact, nearby Point Loma is home to the largest sport fishing fleet in Southern California! Each ship that docks here is led by an experienced crew who know where the “hot spots” are, so there’s no way you’re coming back empty-handed. Looking to get in on the action for yourself? We’ve got the inside line. Here’s where to find the best fishing charters in San Diego.

Point Loma Sportfishing (1.2 miles away)

young woman on a fishing boat holding up her catch

(Photo: @pointlomasportfishing)

Point Loma and its fleet of ships focuses on larger species like bluefin and yellowtail. Every type of charter imaginable is available from this multifaceted outlet, from afternoon jaunts, to adventures of two weeks or more. If you’re serious about your catch, the captains and crews at Point Loma can take you to spots overflowing with trophies. 

1403 Scott Street, San Diego, CA. USA 92106 

H&M Landing (1.2 miles away)

a man on a boat holding up a large tuna

(Photo: @hmlanding_since1935)

H&M has been hauling in huge catches since 1935. In addition to offering a variety of charters, H&M also has a bait and tackle shop right on-site in case you’re venturing out on your own. They also specialize in family sportfishing trips, so if you’ve got younger fisher-folks who want to get in a good day on the water, this is the place to call.

2803 Emerson St, San Diego, CA 92106

San Diego Sportfishing (1.2 miles away)

someone standing on a fishing boat with a rod at sunset

It’s tough to go wrong with this long-running charter service. San Diego Sportfishing operates a fleet of specialty craft out of America’s Cup Harbor, and is well-known for hauling back boat after boat full of yellowtail, tuna, rockfish, bonito, calico bass, sand bass, sculpin, barracuda and many more.

1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106

Fisherman’s Landing (1.3 miles away)

three friends holding a large tuna

(Photo: @fishermans_landing)

The skippers at Fisherman’s Landing have been delivering top-notch fishing experiences to San Diego residents and visitors alike for more than 50 years. In that time, they’ve delivered half-, full-, and multi-day trips to more than 100,000 fishers who have pulled in countless catches. No matter the trek you seek, Fisherman’s Landing can deliver it.   

2838 Garrison St, San Diego, CA, 92106

Pacific Dawn Sportfishing (1.3 miles away)

guests on a fishing boat holding up their catches

(Photo: @pacificdawn_sportfishing)

Fish from the deck of a 59′ boat that can accommodate up to 24 passengers. Pacific Dawn’s craft features custom, air-conditioned bunks, a full galley, two restrooms (including showers) and a friendly, experienced crew. You won’t head back empty-handed with this crew. 

2838 Garrison St, San Diego, CA, 92106

Captain Clowers Charters (4.1 miles away)

a charter fishing boat

(Photo: @captainclowers)

Want to book an experienced charter service that offers year-round trips to San Diego Bay, Mission Bay, La Jolla, and Point Loma? Captain Clowers is a fantastic choice. Hop aboard and get ready to haul in haul in tuna, dorado, marlin, wahoo and big bluefin.  

1880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101

Seaforth Landing (5.4 miles away)

fishermen on a boat full of large, silver fish

(Photo: @seaforthlanding)

Seaforth’s fleet of more than a dozen comfortable craft have a well-earned reputation for pulling their limits every time out. No matter which trek you opt for, you’ll be coming back with a haul you’ll be proud of. Check the online fish counts at their website to see what you can look forward to, then book your trip while they’re still biting.  

1717 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109 

El Gato Sportfishing (5.4 miles away)

friends holding up their catches

(Photo: @el_gato_charters_inc)

El Gato makes use of high-tech fish-spotting gear to locate the biggest schools of fish. High-capacity fuel tanks aboard mean extended charters are available for groups of up to six. Bluefin, bonito, rockfish, yellowtail and many more are out there just waiting for you when you book your adventure with the pros at El Gato.  

1717 Quivira Road, San Diego, CA 92109

Shelter Island Pier

Shelter Island Pier

(Photo: @charlieecho_cellar_mouse)

Some of the best fishing in the city is available just steps away from Island Palms. If you’re not ready to spend a day out on the water, you can enjoy local fishing right off the pier. And if you need any refreshments or fishing gear, Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle is only a short stroll away. They’ve got lures, bait, line and all the angler accessories, as well as craft beers and delicious food.

Come Ashore at Island Palms

Are you ready to discover these fertile fishing waters for yourself? Take a look at our Special Offers page, and select the San Diego angling adventure that’s right for you.

silhouette of a woman on a swing
01 Jan 2022

San Diego Local’s Guide to Secret Spots

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Like many amazing American cities, San Diego gets a generous amount of praise for its incredible attractions. Must-sees like Balboa Park, SeaWorld, and the Gaslamp/hea Quarter draw millions of visitors every year. And don’t get us wrong — you should definitely make time to check those out during your visit. That said, San Diego also has its fair share of well-kept secrets — hidden gems that locals treasure, but that don’t always show up on “best of” lists aimed at attracting visitors. Here are a few of the best hidden spots in San Diego.

The Hidden Swings

(Photo: @island_palms)

San Diego’s “Hidden Swings” are the stuff of legend around here, and for good reason. These classic playground-style tree swings often afford some of the best views of any spot in town. Nobody’s really sure who put them up. Sometimes they disappear for a while, only to reappear later — either in the same place or somewhere else entirely. It’s a mystery! One thing’s for sure: The tracking-down of these carefree playground-style delights is often an enjoyable scavenger hunt. And once you find one, you’re in for a renewed sense of childlike wonder.

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge (5.7 miles away)

(Photo: @bellpeppa)

This secret span is an adventure and a destination in one. Tucked away in the Banker’s Hill neighborhood, this pedestrian-only footpath spans nearly 400 feet across Sessions Canyon and sits 70 feet above it. The bridge was built in 1912 in order to connect a newly built trolley stop to a residential area. It has remained in place as a favorite spot for locals to take a gently swaying stroll above the treetops.

W Spruce St, San Diego, CA 92103

Harper’s Topiary Garden (5.6 miles away)

Harper’s Topiary Garden

(Photo: @regenbaby)

San Diego residents Alex and Edna Harper have spent years creating something truly special at their home in Mission Hills. Topiary is the practice of shaping shrubbery into whimsical shapes, and the Harpers have turned their front garden into one of the country’s finest exhibits of this botanical art. Their display includes countless bushes trimmed into the form of animals, geometric shapes, human figures, and more. Visitors are encouraged to stop by (as long as they respect the Harpers’ space and home while they do).

3549 Union St, San Diego, CA 92103

Balboa Park Palm Canyon (7.6 miles away)

(Photo: @gregorybergsd)

While renowned Balboa Park is hardly a secret, given its abundance of museums, restaurants, and public art, there is a hidden corner of it that many locals don’t even know about. Famed horticulturist Kate Sessions — who was responsible for introducing several plant species to southern California — helped establish a two-acre plot within the park that features a wide range of palm species. It can be accessed via a winding, secluded path and exists as a sanctuary within an oasis — tucked away, but worth the search.  

1549 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101

Coronado Sand Dunes (11.5 miles away)

(Photo: @duckysmom316)

Located on Coronado Island, the eponymous Coronado Sand Dunes are only “hidden” from a certain vantage point. But these human-engineered hills still count as a secret gem because said vantage point happens to be ground level. From overhead (a perspective many of the nearby North Island Naval Station pilots enjoy), the dunes spell out “CORONADO BEACH.” Still, even if the message isn’t visible from ground level, the dunes themselves are a fantastic place for a picnic or beach day.

Ocean Blvd, Coronado, CA 92118

The “Sin Ship” Wreckage (12 miles away)

(Photo: @coronadobeachcomber)

Tucked away in nearby Coronado lies one of the only shipwrecks in the country that’s observable without scuba gear: the SS Monte Carlo. In the 1930s, the Monte Carlo — an infamous gambling and party vessel that operated offshore during the prohibition years — was destroyed by a storm just off the coast of Coronado. For years it was buried, before El Niño storms uncovered it years later. Today it remains moored where it was destroyed.

North Pacific Ocean, Coronado, CA 92118

Sunny Jim Cave (12.8 miles)

Sunny Jim Cave

(Photo: @thecavestore)

Nestled beneath the cliffs of La Jolla Cove is a cave unlike any other you’ll ever explore. Originally hand-dug beneath the home of miner Gustav Schultz in 1902, the cave was first plumbed for minerals before being turned into a bootleggers’ smuggling passage during the Prohibition. Today, the cavern sits beneath The Cave Store, a popular La Jolla gift and souvenir shop. The store offers self-guided tours of the cave by reservation, so be sure to call ahead and set up a time to go spelunking.

1325 Coast Blvd. La Jolla, CA 92037, USA

Queen Califa’s Magical Circle (30.3 miles away)

(Photo: @cityofescondido)

Nestled in Nearby Escondido, this magical spot has been delighting kids of all ages for more than 20 years. Featuring colorful, larger-than-life artworks from noted French artist Niki de Saint-Phalle, this enchanting enclave proved to be her last major work — and her only American sculpture garden. Each piece was inspired by her late-career move to the area and reflects local legends, stories, and folklore. Don’t forget your camera!

3333 Bear Valley Pkwy, Escondido, CA 92025

Potato Chip Rock (36 miles away)

(Photo: @mimilalaa)

Hiking is certainly a popular pastime around here. The variety of terrain, the spectacular views, and the always-perfect weather are just some of the reasons why. Sometimes the reward at the end of a solid hike is a singular sight, like Potato Chip Rock. Named for its unique shape, this slim outcropping on Mt. Woodson Trail is a favorite spot for locals. Once you behold it for yourself, you’ll no doubt see why.

Mt. Woodson Trail, Ramona, CA 92065

Plan Your San Diego Scavenger Hunt

Ready to discover these hidden spots in San Diego for yourself? Take a look at the SPECIAL OFFERS at Best Western Island Palms and get the best rates for your stay.

aerial view of marina
01 Jun 2021

What to Do on Shelter Island & Point Loma

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

There are an endless number of beautiful spots in our home of sunny San Diego. Stunning sunsets, breathtaking beaches, and impressive architecture are nearly everywhere you look. That said, we’ll admit to a bit of personal bias in opining that our home of Shelter Island may just be the loveliest of them all. Shelter Island is marked by tranquil skyline, ample green space, and very little of the bustle that’s found in other parts of the city. It may not boast the energetic excitement of Mission Beach or the Gaslamp Quarter, but sometimes peace and quiet is what you really need. Read on for our take on the best things to do on Shelter Island in Point Loma, San Diego.

Biking

Cycling has proven to be one of the most popular activities on Shelter Island, and for good reason. The island’s circumference-circling bike is perfect for visitors looking to get in some physical activity while sightseeing. Whether you want to go farther out into Point Loma or are just looking for a short spin around Shelter Island, you can look forward to a pleasant ride. San Diego is a very easy city to navigate on two wheels.

Walking/Jogging

two people walking next to a marina full of sailboats

The path that runs the length of Shelter Island and back isn’t just open to cyclists. Those wishing to traverse the route on foot are also welcome to do so, and at their own pace. Whether making the trip for fitness reasons or simply as a relaxing sightseeing trek, visitors will be welcomed by ideal weather, idyllic marina views, and endless sunshine.

Fishing

a fishing boat

Looking to get a little angling in? Shelter Island has just the place for you. The Shelter Island Pier is a scenic point to take in the view and drop your hook for a variety of catches, including bonito, barracuda, calico bass, and halibut. The pier opens at 6 a.m. and closes at 10:30 p.m., and no fees are required. Finding yourself a little light in the tacklebox? No problem. Just stop by Fathom Bistro Bait and Tackle and load up on food for yourself, and the fish.

Shoreline Park

A serene swath of green space complete with a playground, Shoreline Park is always a great option for families with kids. In addition to lush picnic areas and abundant space to stretch, visitors can enjoy several slides, a swing set, and a climbing structure, plus the views of the water. Take it easy while the kids play, and don’t forget to bring your sunscreen.

Boating

people on a sailboat

Shelter Island is home to one of San Diego’s top marinas, so there are always amazing watercraft coming and going. As the point of departure for many short and long-range sportfishing trips — plus the constant presence of cruise liners — Shelter Island visitors have a lot of maritime activity to check out on the horizon. And if you’re interested in getting out on the water yourself, you’re always welcome to charter a fishing or sightseeing cruise.

Public Art

a large sculpture of three fishermen

Kidasion Boat Rafting in Mission Bay

Thanks to its scenic location, Shelter Island is home to quite a few captivating pieces of art for visitors to enjoy. At the south end of the island, you’ll discover several beautiful and moving works, including the Yokohama Friendship Bell (gifted to the city in 1958), the Tunaman’s Memorial, and the Pacific Rim Park mosaic — including the Pearl of the Pacific. Learn about their history and enjoy your journey.

Water Sports

a marina at sunset

Thanks to the abundant amount of shoreline here (and the calmer inland waters), Shelter Island is a great place to partake in your favorite water sports. Kayaking, surfing, parasailing, swimming, kiteboarding, and sport boating are all extremely popular thanks to the warm, sapphire-blue waters of San Diego Bay. There are also many locations up and down the island where equipment is available for purchase or rental. So get out there and enjoy a day on the water!

Live Music

Humphreys entrance

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of an energetic concert featuring your favorite artists, and Shelter Island is one of the best places in San Diego to see them live. Our sister property Humphreys Half Moon Inn hosts one of the best concert venues in all of “America’s Finest City” — Humphreys Concerts by the Bay. Their stage will once again be welcoming world-class bands back over the summer, so you won’t want to miss dropping in and rocking out!

Whale Watching

a whale breaching

San Diego is one of the best spots along the West Coast to spot pods of gray whales as they make their annual 10,000-mile migration to cooler northern waters. December is the beginning of the season, but the migratory patterns of these majestic ocean behemoths can last for months. Spotting whales from shore is not uncommon, but Shelter Island visitors can also charter tour boats that get them up close to our marine neighbors.

01 Feb 2020

Guide to San Diego’s Secret Bars

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Time-travel back to the days of Prohibition any time you enter one of San Diego’s secret bars. Speakeasies are popping up all over San Diego, and these eight will instantly immerse you in the debauchery of the Jazz Age — without even breaking the law. Sip sumptuous, old-school libations, take in the intimate ambiance, and admire some of the best and most unexpected design details in San Diego’s mixology scene.

Oculto 477

Oculto 477 is a respectful homage to mixologists of the past, including the pre-Prohibition and Prohibition eras, as well as the neighboring cemetery. A dress code and etiquette code are politely enforced (gentlemen, no baseball hats or flip-flops), and there’s a dedicated mezcal tasting room. The menu is arranged based on the style of cocktail, whether “sippers” or a punch bowl.

Secret Tip: The entrance is hidden in Tahona. We won’t tell you exactly where, of course — in this case, finding it is half the fun.

2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110 (4.8 miles from the hotel)

False Idol

False Idol is home to more than 200 varieties of rum — a nod to the immersive Tiki theme — as well as a flaming volcano that can “erupt” at any minute. (It can also be set off by anyone who orders the Alkala the Fierce cocktail.) A grotto, wood carvings, and a waterfall are just a few of the other creative and immersive details.

Secret Tip: Reach the venue via a walk-in refrigerator in the back of Little Italy’s Craft & Commerce restaurant.

675 W Beech St, San Diego, CA 92101 (5.2 miles from the hotel)

Room 56

Room 56 is the secret speakeasy at Moxy San Diego. It hides behind a bookcase, which you will access only after conferring with the resident “librarian” and receiving the highly guarded password. Among its inventive cocktails are the Martha Mary Mercy sour, with St. George All Purpose Vodka, vanilla orgeat, blackberry, and lemon, and the food menu’s six shared items rotate daily.

Secret Tip: Access the password on the rather mysteriously designed webpage. Text it to the number provided in order to ensure you’ll make it inside.

831 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (6.1 miles from the hotel)

Prohibition

Located in the Gaslamp neighborhood, Prohibition is styled as a vintage law office owned by a man by the name of Eddie O’Hare. Once inside, you’ll be immersed in a secret underground location, with an old-time ambiance and masterfully crafted cocktails.

Secret Tip: Find the door to Eddie O’Hare’s law office on Fifth Avenue to enter the speakeasy.

548 Fifth Avenue San Diego, CA 92101 (6.3 miles from the hotel)

Noble Experiment

Looking for an intimate and exclusive bar serving unique libations among a wall of skulls? Noble Experiment is waiting for you. A reservation is the only way to get a seat in the immaculately appointed space, located inside Neighborhood eatery, in East Village.

Secret Tip: The entrance of the speakeasy is through a wall of empty kegs, stacked along the wall near the restrooms.

777 G St, San Diego, CA 92101 (6.3 miles from the hotel)

Bar Three Piece

If you’re hanging out in North Park, dip into Seven Grand Whiskey Bar for a large selection of whiskey. Need more selection? Head to the back to find Bar Three Piece, a speakeasy nestled inside Seven Grand Whiskey Bar, home to over 250 patiently curated bottles of vintage iconic whiskey. In addition to whiskey, Nicaraguan cigars are available for purchase and paired with a drink of your choosing to be enjoyed on a private smoking patio.

Secret Tip: Find a bottle you love? Bar Three Piece offers a Private Bottle Locker Program, which allows you to purchase your own bottle of whiskey and have it held in a locker for your enjoyment upon each visit.

3054 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104 (11.9 miles from the hotel)

Realm of the 52 Remedies

This 45-seat speakeasy is Kearny Mesa’s newest hotspot. Your journey starts in a white room decorated as a futuristic apothecary, inspired by an ancient manuscript of recipes and remedies stemming from ancient Chinese medicine. Continuing into the drinking den, guests are led down a portal to the past to find opulent seating, dramatic decorations and overhead sculptures to further enhance the spectacle created inside the Realm of 52 Remedies.

Secret Tip: The four-seat “Emperor’s Bar” inside the Realm of 52 Remedies offers exclusive access to a collection of premium spirits.

4805 Convoy Street, San Diego, CA 92111 (13.5 miles away)

Raised By Wolves

Recently named “Cocktail Bar of the Year” in Imbibe magazine, Raised by Wolves sits rather anachronistically in a mall, but is all nostalgia on the inside — think frescoes, polished cabinets, marble-tiled floors, and all-around dazzling design. It’s even got a rotating bar, where seasoned bartenders whip up cocktails like the Twilight Samurai (whisky, bitters, star anise, and pear eau-de-vie).

Secret Tip: This one is fittingly tucked into a liquor store, specifically, a revolving wall attached to a hidden fireplace.

4301 La Jolla Village Dr #2030, San Diego, CA 92122 (13.7 miles from the hotel)

Plan Your Trip

Now that you know where to order your drinks, it’s time to start planning your visit. Start by checking out the exclusive offers at Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina.

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