Torrey Pines, La Jolla, and Pacific Beach
Just a few miles north of downtown San Diego is a string of beach towns, each offering its own unique and interesting sights. Just north of Mission Bay is Pacific Beach, a great place to stroll along the beach and explore interesting shops, bars, and restaurants. Don't miss the historic wood roller coaster. Going further north, you find La Jolla (the jewel in Spanish), where some of the finest shops and restaurants can be found. Stroll along the sea shore and see the seal rocks with live seals all year around, the cove, and the caves. The Scripps Aquarium is a fun and educational destination. Finally, stop in at Torrey Pines State Park for a quiet stroll through natural settings with breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Tip:   Be sure to check out the La Jolla cove, where the best snorkeling and kayaking can be found. Since it is a marine preserve, you will find yourself swimming with colorful fish and the seals. In La Jolla stop by seal rock and the Children's Pool where you can watch the seals frolic from a safe, but relatively close, vantage point. Also check out La Jolla's Windansea Park, where you will find shore breaks that will challenge even experienced surfers. Fun to watch and great sunsets!

Hot Air Balloon, Biplane, and War Bird Rides
Hot air balloon rides have become a traditional pastime north of San Diego, mostly near the beach communities. In good weather, the sunset skies are filled with these quiet and majestic balloons. More recently, open-cockpit biplane rides and mock combat in World War II war birds have filled the skies. You haven't really flown until you have flown one of these. Go up with an experienced pilot, and then no pilot's license is necessary.

Tip:   You will want to pick good weather for this, which is usually not difficult in July and August in San Diego.

Borrego Springs, Palm Canyon, and the Salton Sea (228 feet below sea level)
If you like it hot, San Diego's own backyard desert is just over an hour away. On a good July day you may be able to experience 125 degrees, but bring plenty of water! Yeah, but it is a dry heat. The Anza-Borrego State Park has interesting exhibits of desert plant and animal life, and the park offers many hiking and camping possibilities. Nearby is the Salton Sea, California's largest lake and located some 228 feet below sea level.

Tip:   Take the Palm Canyon hike, but be warned, it is a rugged adventure. Start early, and get back before mid-afternoon.

Presidio Park, Junipero Serra Museum, and Old Town
Just off the 8 freeway, near the 5 freeway interchange, Presidio Park offers a scenic and serene setting for a relaxing visit. To learn more about the history of San Diego, stop into the Father Junipero Serra Museum, located within the park. Adjacent to Presidio Park is the San Diego Old Town, which is not only the place where the first town of San Diego was founded, but is also known as the birthplace of California.

Tip:   There is plenty of free parking at the train/trolley station. Stroll through Old Town and visit the shops and museums. Stop into the Whaley House, where you are sure to see a ghost or two. Check out the Mexican restaurants in Old Town; this is authentic as it gets in San Diego.

Japanese Garden at Karl Strauss Brewing Company in Sorrento Valley
Looking for some of the best beer in San Diego and want to stroll through a beautiful and serene Japanese garden? Located just east of the 805 freeway off of Mira Mesa Blvd., this Karl Strauss restaurant has taken over a former Japanese restaurant located in a wonderful Japanese garden with koi pond. This is one of the best-kept secrets in San Diego!

Tip:   The restaurant is closed on Saturdays for weddings and private parties, but you can still stroll through the garden for free. They have a killer brunch on Sundays, but you must make reservations well in advance. Try for a table on the deck overlooking the koi pond.