24 Hours in San Diego: Sunsets, Beaches, and Business
San Diego, California—when you hear the name you can’t help but think of sunkissed skin, surfers, sunsets, and incredible beaches that go on for miles. And you’d be right! But our beach life isn’t the only thing San Diego has to offer. As a recent transplant from Los Angeles to San Diego I’ve found myself falling in love with everything San Diego has to offer. There are so many amazing things to do, but if you had to do it all in 24 hours this is what I would hit first.
Whether you are staying outside of downtown San Diego or in the heart of it, I have highlight some of my favorite spots to eat, shop and stay!
Downtown San Diego
For a downtown business trip you should:
Check In and Drop Off Your Bags
If you are coming in to San Diego for 24 hours and want to see what it is all about, check out and check into some of San Diego’s hotels in the downtown Gaslamp area which is known as a top business destination for single and family travelers alike.
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Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego is steps from the convention center (or a short Lime Scooter ride away!) and next to delicious restaurants like HI Poke and Puesto at the headquarters. You could also try The US Grant, A Luxury Collection Hotel, The Westgate Hotel, or Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. And by staying downtown there are so many wonderful things to do all in walking distance, like…
Go to a Padre’s Game
Across from the convention center, you’ll find Petco Park. Instead of the usual business meeting over coffee, you could try to score a few tickets and network in a more casual and fun setting while watching a Padre’s game—if it’s in season, of course.
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Eat Modern Organic Mexican
Eat at Tocoya Organica for a taste of Mexican, while still being health conscious. They offer a variety of flavorful bowls and you can polish off the meal with a vegan churro ice cream sandwich!
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Grab a Drink with a View
Head 22 stories above the historic Gaslamp District to the famous Altitude Sky Lounge, for a one-of-a-kind rooftop bar in San Diego, with stunning panoramic views across downtown. Settle in by the blazing fire pit and enjoy their incredible happy hour!
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Soak up the Sun
Have a free morning or afternoon? Soak up the San Diego sun by visiting Coronado, just a quick ferry ride away! If you find yourself there in the evening grab a drink at the Sunset Bar at Hotel del Coronado as you bask in the golden hour.
The Greater San Diego Area
Is your business taking you beyond downtown? Here are some other great things to do and see around the San Diego Area!
Grab a Coffee
San Diego, has so many incredible coffee shops it is hard to pick just one. Better Buzz serves up coffee next to picture perfect bites and free wifi so you can catch up on emails, while S3 Coffee makes colorful drinks that will take your Instagame to the next level. If a laid back vibe is what you’re after, sip your drink of choice at Communal Coffee while taking a break between meetings. Holy Matcha offers seating amongst its leafy and pink atmosphere that’s perfect for a one on one over lattes.
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Stop and Smell the Roses
Native Poppy is a whimsical place, perfect for grabbing a gift for your significant other or little one at home. Not only is it connected to Communal Coffee, it hosts its own array of fresh blooms!
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Get Your Hair Did
If your business takes you to La Jolla, One10 Salon is a great stop before you head out for some client entertainment over dinner. From eyelash extensions to a cut, color, or a blow dry, this all-woman owned salon can get you feeling yourself in NO time!
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Grab a Bite
Now this one is tricky there is so many incredible places to grab a bite but if you don’t know exactly what you are craving just yet, I would say stop by Liberty Public Market. It’s located in Liberty Station which in itself is a must to do and see, but for now let’s discuss the food! Liberty Public Market is kind of like Pike’s Place In Seattle but with more room and more food to choose from! Food ranging from sushi burritos from Rakiraki to homemade fresh pasta this place is a foodies dream and yes they also have incredible bar too!
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Go Shopping
San Diego has some of the best shopping don’t believe me, check these stores out yourself not only do they have incredible inventory they are an instagrammers dream! Pigment will have you swooning over the succulents, and Moniker General will serve up an amazing cocktail after you’ve perused their selection of general store goods. Creative Market Place is a one stop shop for fun handmade items from a collective of female makers.
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