Sometimes you need a break from the ins and outs of daily life, but don’t necessarily have the time to get out of town. Enter the staycation – the perfect way to take a holiday without having to leave your city. What could be better? Especially when you have a dedicated team of fastidious Plum Guide home critics vetting every property on our website to make sure it’s up to your standards.

The San Diego area is full of chic and sleek Plum Guide homes just waiting for you to call yours for a few days. Some have swimming pools, others hot tubs; all have well designed kitchens, comfortable mattresses and the type of water pressure that will make you never want to get out of the shower. With the option to so easily live in this type of luxury so close to home, you might consider making your San Diego staycation a regular thing.

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When choosing where to staycation in San Diego, it’s key to find a place that offers you as much if not more luxury than what you have at home. Otherwise, what’s the point? We both know you live pretty well already - that’s why you keep slaving away at that job that gives you anxiety every Sunday.

Sea Bass Cove located in everyone’s favourite fancy neighbourhood La Jolla represents everything there is to love about a coastal staycation. Just a short stroll from the beach as well as the beautiful cliffs and coves of La Jolla, this cozy beach house is traditional but also contemporary. Waking up to sea views will have you feeling as refreshed as the day after your in-laws leave your house after the holidays.

Razor Clam in Pacific Beach is also within walking distance to the sand and has an old-school charm that will make you feel like you’re really on holiday. The fire pit in the yard is the perfect spot to relax at night and maybe even have some romantic moments with your better half.

For a house with a sleek upscale feel, why not spend your San Diego staycation at Beachy Touch? The high ceilinged wooden beamed living room is a highlight of this home as is the open air fire pit and serious barbecue station on the patio. The funky turquoise subway tiles in the bathroom mean you’ll always know where your tweens are as they make the perfect background for a TikTok.

If it’s space you’re after, don’t look any further than My Blue Breeze in Mission Beach. Shaded by glamorous tropical trees, you’re within steps to South Mission beach where you can enjoy the fabulous array of restaurants, bars, and markets. After a long day reacquainting yourself with your city, there’s nothing better than soaking in your own personal indoor hot tub. You’re welcome.

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When it comes to your staycation, San Diego offers a plethora of great activities you may not have given yourself the time to enjoy for quite some time while living there.

Soak up some culture at one of Balboa Park’s 17 impressive museums. A few of our favourites include the San Diego Model Railroad Museum (for the nerds academics), The San Diego Museum of Art (for the pretentious arty types) and the San Diego Natural History Museum (for the little monsters angels). You’ll love the opportunity to take your time as you explore these institutions because you’re on vacation, instead of just passing through on the way to your next work meeting or playdate drop-off.

Play a round of golf at Torrey Pines Golf Course. It’s likely you drive by the place pretty often, but when was the last time you took the time to practice your swing and really take in the beauty of the course’s incredible nature? Similarly, take a stroll in Balboa Park and take the time to truly look around. There is so much more to see than you realise.

Speaking of which, when’s the last time you went to the beach? And we don’t mean for a jog or to drop your kids at a surf lesson. Chances are you haven’t really been to the seaside in a while and nothing will bring out the youth in you like a full day spent on the sand.

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When it comes to eateries, you of all people know how many great restaurants San Diego has to offer. But rather than hit your usual spots, why not try something new on your staycation? We know you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but humour us here and let us try.

Dija Mara in Oceanside offers diners a carefully curated menu informed by Chef Ryan Costanza’s training and travels. The fare here is based on Southeast Asian cuisine but rooted in California sensibilities. Dishes are both beautiful and absolutely delicious. Try trendy Campfire in Carlsbad where wood-fired cookery reigns supreme, even when it comes to the cocktails. This spot is appropriate for either date night or family dinner so if you ask us, it’s a win win.

For a bit of a dining adventure, don’t miss George’s at the Cove, a three-floor ocean view spot for choose-your-own-adventure dining. You’ll be able to select between a rooftop terrace, craft cocktail-focused gastrobar, and a fine dining restaurant. Or try all three to really get the party started. Hey, you live here so as far as we're concerned you can do whatever you want.

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• San Diego itinerary

• Best homes for families in San Diego

• A travel guide to San Diego

• Things to do in San Diego