People in California are on the hunt for staycations! Luckily, San Diego has plenty of fun options available to enjoy. Whether it be visiting a historical landmark, strolling a lush garden, or picnicking on the beach, there’s an abundance of fun and safe activities worth discovering.
Here are a few of the options around San Diego that are open with proper social distancing protocols.
Juilan
Julian is a historic gold-mining town nestled in the mountains of San Diego’s East County. The Eagle Mining Co. is open by reservation only and offers informative California tours that guide adventures through the world of an 1870s mining operation. Surrounded by epic hiking trails as well as a quaint main street that offers some socially distanced experiences including its homemade fresh apple pie, Julian is a wonderful place to be.
Picnic at Presidio Park
With its beautiful views of the city, the Pacific Ocean and 40 acres of natural beauty, pack up your charcuterie and have a picnic at Presidio Park. With a rich history and known as the place where the first European settlements were founded in 1769, there’s so much to explore and discover – with plenty of open space to maintain a safe distance from others.
Beaches
San Diego is known for its magnificent beaches and although anytime of the year is a great time to have a beach day, springtime brings the most perfect weather. There are 70 miles of coastline to explore, from rocky cliffs to crab hunting in the tide pools, to white sandy stretches of beach, discover the picture perfect Southern California setting that San Diego is famous for.
- Coronado City Beach
- La Jolla Cove
- Del Mar City Beach
- Pacific Beach
- Mission Beach
- Mission Bay Park
- Carlsbad State Beach
Carlsbad is like a hidden gem along the California coast, offering a little something for the whole family, offering seven miles of beautiful beaches for everyone to enjoy. Go to visitcarlsbad.com to get more info.
Bring Your Dog to the Beach
San Diego offers plenty of dog-friendly parks and beaches are a must for any pet owner. Residents and would be residents of San Diego should definitely check out some of the parks and beaches below:
- Dusty Rhodes Off-Leash Dog Park – Nimitz Blvd & Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA Map
- Nate’s Point Off-Leash Dog Park – 2500 Balboa Dr., San Diego, CA 92103 Map
- Ocean Beach Dog Beach – End of Voltaire St, Ocean Beach, CA 92107 Map
- Fiesta Island Off Leash Dog Park – Fiesta Island Road, San Diego, CA 92123 Map
Coronado Island
It may seem a little clichéd for residents, but there is a good reason why Coronado Island is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. If you haven’t been, or haven’t been lately, it’s a great choice for a couple’s getaway.
Relax and recharge on the many beaches throughout the island, rent bicycles or spend the day at Spreckels Park. The trees surrounding Spreckels Park are unique enough to garner their own walking tour! Call 619-435-1764 for details or visit Coronado Visitor Center for more information.
Camping, Hiking, & Mud Caves!
One of the great things about living in San Diego is the variety in geography and climate, from beaches to mountains and deserts, and everything in-between. Outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, mountain biking, off-roading and dirt biking can all be found within a reasonably convenient drive and are socially distant activities.
If this type of staycation sounds more like your speed, you could check out some of the natural wonders of the Anza Borrego Desert such as the Agua Caliente hot springs. To stay at the campsite requires a reservation, which you can make online. There, you can explore the local desert, go on hikes or enjoy the geothermal mineral water pools.
If you have a 4WD vehicle (recommended), you can also drive out to explore the Arroyo Tapiado Mud Caves from this location. Make sure you follow safety guidelines when exploring the caves! Other options include the Palomar Observatory campground, where you can visit Palomar Observatory and explore the cosmos. Or perhaps take a peaceful Sailplane ride over Lake Henshaw!
Read our blog post for more San Diego staycation ideas, for when the city begins to open up.
