Local San Diego Tips & Recommendations from the Island Palms Team

When you stay with us at Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina, it’s easy to fall in love with the waterfront views, marina breezes, and relaxed Shelter Island atmosphere. But what truly makes a stay memorable is the team behind the scenes who bring the Island Palms experience to life each day.

From our chef crafting bold island-inspired dishes at Blue Wave Bar & Grill to the guest services team sharing their favorite San Diego hidden gems, every department plays a role in creating the laid-back vibe guests feel the moment they arrive. We recently sat down with a few members of the Island Palms team to learn their insider tips, favorite experiences, and what makes our waterfront San Diego hotel such a special place to visit.

From Our General Manager: What Guests Should Do This Spring

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Shelter Island, and our General Manager, Barbara, has a few favorite experiences every guest should try during their stay.

One of the most memorable things guests can do is attend a show at nearby Humphrey Concerts by the bay, our sister hotel's outdoor concert venue on Shelter Island. “A Humphreys' concert is an unforgettable experience if you’re lucky enough to be here on a concert night,” Barb says. Guests can start the evening with drinks, tapas, or dinner at our very own waterfront restaurant,Blue Wave Bar & Grill, then take a short walk down the street to enjoy the show. Plus, they just dropped their new 2026 season lineup, and it's one you don't want to miss!

Another great way to explore the area is by taking advantage of the hotel’s complimentary bicycle rentals. Shelter Island’s mile-long waterfront path is perfect for a relaxing ride along the bay. “Keep an eye out for the Navy training the dolphins in the bay,” Barb says. “It’s amazing to watch.”

For a true maritime experience, Barb recommends booking a sailing excursion with Next Level Sailing, which departs right from our Shelter Island Marina, just steps from the hotel. Guests can even order lunch from Blue Wave Bar & Grill and have it delivered before boarding the tour.

Barb also shared a fun historical fact about the area. Shelter Island wasn’t always the boating hub it is today. “It was originally a small sandbank that was built up using dredged sand to create the island we know today.”

As for her favorite part of working here? “I try to walk around the waterfront every day. It’s a beautiful way to take a break and re-energize.”

How would she describe the Island Palms vibe to someone who has never visited? “The minute you walk into the lobby and hear the bubbling water, you can feel the laid-back atmosphere. Guests immediately relax and slip into vacation mode.”

Blue Wave Bar & Grill: Island-Inspired Dining

Dining at Blue Wave Bar & Grill is an essential part of the Island Palms experience. Executive Chef Andrew Mroz draws inspiration from island cuisines around the world, while also keeping an eye on global culinary trends.

“I like to look at what’s happening around the world,” Chef Andrew says. “Sometimes trends appear in places like Japan, and six months later they show up here. I like to stay ahead of the curve.”

Guests will find a wide variety of creative dishes on the menu, but a few items stand out as must-tries. Our tableside guacamole is a guest favorite, and almost every table orders one for the fun presentation. Chef Andrew also recommends the Grilled Lemon Barramundi, an Australian sea bass served with lemon butter pan sauce, and the rich Braised Short Ribs from our Dinner Menu. A new addition to the spring menu is the Fondue Burger, a smashed burger served alongside a bubbling cauldron of melted cheese.

Brunch is another highlight at Blue Wave. While weekday breakfasts stay simple, our Weekend Brunch Menu features bold and creative dishes like Short Rib Hash and a Chilaquiles Torta that guests love to photograph and share.

Chef Andrew also takes pride in offering a wide range of vegan options. “We like taking our regular menu items and spinning them into vegan-friendly versions,” he says.

The restaurant even serves a unique treat inspired by Disneyland. “Dole Whip. It’s a staple here now, and we’re the only restaurant around here that has it.”

Planning a Meeting or Corporate Retreat by the Bay

Island Palms is not only a favorite for leisure travelers. Our hotel’s marina setting also makes the ideal destination for meetings, retreats, and group getaways. According to our Sales Director, Steve, one of the biggest advantages of planning an event here is San Diego’s famously reliable weather.

“One of the benefits of holding a meeting in San Diego, especially at Island Palms, is that the weather is almost always perfect year-round,” Steve says. “Every season offers something that can create a memorable meeting experience.”

Our property’s location on Shelter Island helps groups strike a balance between productivity and relaxation. Meetings overlooking the marina can easily transition into outdoor activities that take advantage of the waterfront setting. “The variety of activities we can offer both onsite and nearby makes Island Palms ideal for corporate retreats and team-building events,” Steve explains. From sailing excursions and waterfront bike rides to casual networking over dinner at Blue Wave Bar & Grill, our property encourages teams to connect in a more relaxed way.

“Our waterfront location, sunny days, and bay breezes create an environment where people can focus, collaborate, and also decompress from the normal day-to-day routine.”

Unlike many venues, Island Palms offers something truly unique. “Not every San Diego hotel is located directly on the water while still being a short drive from everything that makes the city such a great destination.”

Weddings With a Waterfront View

For couples planning their big day, Island Palms provides a beautiful waterfront setting that feels both scenic and intimate. Our Wedding & Catering Sales Manager, Maria, says one of the biggest trends she’s seeing in 2026 is brides embracing bold and expressive styles. “Brides are choosing statement silhouettes, dramatic veils, and unique textures that reflect their personality,” she says.

What makes a wedding at Island Palms especially memorable is the variety of spaces available across the property. Couples can host their ceremony overlooking the marina, celebrate with a waterfront reception, and provide convenient accommodations for guests all in one place.

“It’s truly a one-stop shop,” Maria explains. “We offer sleeping rooms, catering, ceremony locations, and reception spaces all together, which makes the day feel seamless and relaxed.”

Her biggest piece of advice for couples beginning the planning process is simple: set a comfortable budget early and try not to get overwhelmed by too many outside opinions. "At the end of the day, your wedding should reflect your relationship and your story.”

One creative way Maria helps couples personalize their celebration is by incorporating meaningful details into the décor. One idea she loves is placing disposable cameras around the venue so guests can capture candid moments throughout the day. Another favorite is using childhood photos of the couple to match table numbers. Table five might feature a photo of each person at age five. “It becomes a fun conversation starter and tells the story of how the couple grew into the people they are today.”

Guest Services: Insider Tips for Exploring San Diego

Danny, our Director of Guest Services, spends his days helping visitors discover the best things to do around San Diego. For spring visitors, he recommends three must-visit spots:

• Balboa Park is at the top of the list. During spring, the gardens are in full bloom and guests can explore museums, historic architecture, and scenic walking paths.
• La Jolla Cove is another favorite, offering dramatic coastal views, sea lion sightings, and opportunities for kayaking along the shoreline.
• For a classic San Diego beach day, Danny suggests a quick trip across the bay to Coronado, where wide sandy beaches and charming small town streets create the perfect relaxed atmosphere.

For guests visiting without a car, Danny reassures travelers that San Diego is easier to navigate than many expect. Rideshare services, the trolley system, and bike rentals make it simple to explore the city.

When guests ask about the weather, his answer is usually the same. “If you’re visiting San Diego, you’re in luck. Spring typically brings sunny skies, mild temperatures, and refreshing ocean breezes that are ideal for both sightseeing and relaxing by the water".

As for his favorite room view at Island Palms? "My favorite room view is anything overlooking the marina at sunset. 520 being my favorite, it has the perfect balcony to sit, relax, and take it all in".

Experience Island Palms for Yourself

Whether you’re enjoying a waterfront brunch, planning a meeting with a view, or exploring the beauty of Shelter Island by bike, every stay at Island Palms is shaped by the passionate team behind the scenes. Our employees' local knowledge, creativity, and hospitality are what transform a beautiful waterfront hotel into a place guests return to again and again.

The next time you visit us here at Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina, you’ll know a few of the friendly faces working to make your stay unforgettable. We can't wait to welcome you this spring to sunny San Diego!