San Diego is an oasis, the epitome of California living from its idyllic beaches where residents can spend the morning surfing, running and swimming and their evenings sitting by a bonfire watching the sunset to the great food and burgeoning cultural locales like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter. The area owes much of its diversity to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, the Anza-Borrego Dessert, and the Laguna Mountains, and not to mention Mexico. The county is a melting pot of culture and geography.
You can’t talk about San Diego County without also mentioning the 16 U.S. Naval and Military reserves and bases, which happen to be among the largest employers in the area.
To the residents of San Diego, the area is a secret sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. For those seeking a casual and laid-back lifestyle with an ever-accessible beach, look no further than San Diego. Here are some of the reasons why we think you should call San Diego your next home:
Location, Location, Location
San Diego is the land of opportunity. If you want to go surfing you can, if you want to go hiking or biking in the mountains, it’s just a drive away, if you want to go ATVing in the desert then by all means, AND if you want to do all of those things in a single day it is entirely possible. With ideal geographical location and mild temperate climate, San Diegans can enjoy outdoor living whenever they want.
The San Diego region is made up of several areas, each with its own distinctive characteristics and activities. The La Jolla area is great for young professionals with its close proximity to UCSD and more. Encinitas and Carlsbad are the “burbs” of SD, which is great for singles and families alike! Pacific Beach and the Gaslamp District in Downtown San Diego is where the nightlife of SD thrives. Carmel Valley is known for its low crime rates and high income per capita.
Unrivaled Outdoor Shopping & Dining
The design of The Village La Jolla, Del Mar Plaza, Westfield UTC, and other shopping centers in San Diego take full advantage of the great California weather by immersing shoppers in a unique open-air shopping experience.
Due to the close proximity to the ocean, beach cities in San Diego offer many “on the water” dining opportunities. Some of our favorites include:
- George’s at The Cove (La Jolla)
- Point Loma Seafoods (Downtown San Diego)
- Enoteca Adriano (Pacific Beach)
San Diego isn’t just known for its beautiful beaches and waves, it is also home to some of the best research universities in the Country from University of California, San Diego to the University of San Diego.
Nationally Acclaimed Private and Public Schools
While colleges excel in San Diego, so do many of the high schools. The seven high schools below all rank in the Top 50 – Best High Schools in California:
- The Preuss School (La Jolla)
- San Diego High School of International Studies (San Diego)
- Canyon Crest Academy (San Diego)
- Westview High School (San Diego)
- Torrey Pines High (San Diego)
- La Jolla High School (La Jolla)
- Coronado High School (Coronado)
Places to Go
San Diego didn’t host more than 32 million visitors in 2012 because of sheer luck – there’s an endless array of places to visit depending on what you want to do and where you may want to go. Our top favorites include:
- Scuba diving off the coast near La Jolla Cove for the sheer thrill of swimming in the expansive Pacific Ocean
- Old Town San Diego for authentic ambiance
- The Gaslamp District for shopping and food
- Little Italy for mouth-watering food and cultural experience
Food & Drinks & Craft Beers
San Diego’s close proximity to Mexico has lent itself to a unique opportunity to enjoy traditional American style dishes with a Mexican twist. When it comes to craft beers, San Diego is far ahead of LA! Our favorites include:
- AleSmith: What other brewery owner can say they’re a certified Master Beer Budge? None.
- Pizza Port: One of San Diego’s oldest breweries – and it’s still mom and pop run.
- Stone Brewery: One of the best known in the craft beer movement.
- Lost Abbey: Belgian-inspired beers with a religious theme.
The Scenery and Activities
The geography and temperate of San Diego truly lends itself to outdoor lovers. From kayaking to running, hot-air balloons and everything in between, the list is endless. Aside from the activities, if you’re a beach bum you could just lounge around at the beach or at home and enjoy the great ocean breeze and scenic views.
Local Favorites
Shhh… these local SD favorites are sure to excite:
- Pannikin Coffee & Tea in Encinitas. If you really need a jolt, opt for the “Keith Richard”
- Whale and Dolphin Watching at Torrey Pines State Park
- Balboa Park
- Quail Botanical Gardens
Where to Live in San Diego
We have communities throughout San Diego. Choose from 1- to 3-bedroom apartment or townhomes at one of our resort-style communities—boasting saltwater pools, fitness centers and outdoor fireplaces. Click on the button below to find your luxury San Diego apartment home today.
