San Diego Surf, Suds, and Spas

Ron Burgundy was wrong.  San Diego means warm sunshine, beautiful beaches, and epicurean experiences.  Ok… well, it really means “Saint Diego,” but for visitors to this fabulous city, it might be all about the San Diego surf, suds, and spas!

Surf.

San Diego has 70 miles of the most magnificent coastline on the Pacific.  Its beaches beckon visitors of all kinds.

Here are a few favorites that are worth a shout-out.

Del Mar

Del Mar’s commanding cliffs and sweeping sandy beaches bordering the historic Highway 101 are a stark contrast to the charming seaside village.

Spend the day playing in the waves and the night enjoying fine cuisine and cocktails at sunset!

La Jolla

This “jewel” sparkles from its rocky reefs to its golden sandy beaches.  Catch a wave for some of San Diego’s best surfing or grab your snorkel for adventure below the surface.

It’s also a perfect place for an evening bonfire!

Encinitas

Encinitas is an eclectic mix of hippie beach culture and a contemporary spiritual vibe.  Vintage cars, surfers (sometimes vintage, too), great food, boutique shopping, and a laid-back attitude dominate the scene here.

Encinitas is made for California dreamin’.

Guide to the Beaches of San Diego

Whether you’re looking for the perfect bonfire beach, a family play day, fun on the boardwalk, or some serious surfing, you’ll have an amazing time in the San Diego sun!

Suds.

You’ve had a day in the sun and surf.  Now it’s time to wash away the sand with San Diego’s finest brews.

San Diego has a reputation as the Capital of Craft.  It’s home to 150+ breweries and countless varieties- making it a beer lover’s dream.  West Coast IPAs are popular with locals, but there’s no shortage of lagers and sour beers on tap either.

While you’re in town, check out

San Diego Brewing Co.®

San Diego Brewing Co.® was one of the city’s original breweries when it opened in 1896.  More than 125 years later, you can still stop in for a drink.  There are more than 50 beers on tap daily, along with fresh beers brewed on the premises.

Karl Strauss Brewing Company

While San Diego Brewing gets credit for being the oldest brewery, Karl Strauss is credited with starting the city’s craft beer movement.

In 1989, the brewery opened and has been a leader in independent brewing ever since.  In 2020, the company brewed more than 140 beers.  They’re brewing up liquid gold!

10 Stop Brew Hop

Get in on a 10 Stop Brew Hop tour of some of the best breweries in the eastern part of the county.  Make it a half-day or a whole if you’re up for it!

The Complete List of San Diego Breweries

Oh- and when you do hit the tasting rooms, be sure to check out the incredible food trucks that are often parked right outside!

Spas.

When you’re ready to hang up the surfboard and put down your beer mug, relax and rejuvenate at one of San Diego’s world-class day spas.

Treat yourself to luxurious pampering in spectacular settings.  The spas here cater to every whim – from berry facials to algae body wraps!

Get in touch with your inner yogi at one of these magnificent retreats.

Spaterre at Kona Kai

Kona Kai Resort and Spa is situated right on the water with thatched-roof cabanas, sparkling blue water, and its own stretch of white sand for zen moments in the California sun.

Indulge in a signature Thai Herbal Therapy session or a massage on the Crystal Quartz Table to detoxify while you decompress.

If a mani-pedi is more your speed, the oversized massage chairs will lull you into a stupor as you get your toes flip flop ready.

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

Tucked neatly into lush green gardens, olive groves, and eucalyptus trees is the Spa at Rancho Valencia.  This magnificent hacienda-style property gets five shining stars for its unique spa experiences and delectable, fresh fare.

Wellness professionals are on hand to ensure that every detail of your day trip is perfect – from luminous facials to a state-of-the-art yoga nook.

Everything here melds together seamlessly making it the ultimate haven for peace and tranquility.

The Spa at Omni La Costa

The Spa at Omni La Costa is one of San Diego’s original retreats.  It opened in 1965 and has been innovating ever since.  Organic ingredients and sustainability are at the heart of this sunny retreat, and full-body wellness is on full display.

San Diego Surf, Suds, and Spas

San Diego is the perfect spot for anyone with a passion for surf, suds, and spas.  It’s also a great destination for groups!

Check out the latest episode of Destination Dispatch as Ruben Labin from the San Diego Tourism Authority joins Stevie, Keith, and Jim with fresh ideas for your group trip to San Diego!