Visiting San Diego? This coastal California city is known for its natural beauty, stellar beaches, friendly locals, delicious restaurants and of course, excellent shopping. Thanks to Plum Guide's expertly curated guide of where to stay in San Diego, you can focus on enjoying your holiday while our fastidious home critics ensure your home away from home is everything you dreamed of and more.
La Jolla
Known as ‘the jewel of San Diego’, no list of where to stay in San Diego would be complete without including La Jolla. One of the most popular and posh beach towns in Cali, this spot is world renowned for its glorious coastline and picturesque views (perfect for your next Christmas card, assuming you can get the kids to stand still for long enough – good luck).
View from above of waves rolling onto the sand at a beach in La Jolla, San Diego, California
The town has an upscale village vibe complete with unique boutiques, casual and high-end restaurants, museums, art galleries and cute bars and cafes. You’ll love hiking in the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, golfing at the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course, checking out the insane views of La Jolla Cove and letting the little ones explore Shell Beach’s tide pools while you work diligently on your tan (yes, you need it). Should you be in the area for Independence Day on the 4th of July, make sure to check out the all-American fireworks display at local Scripps Park.
Evening Gem, Plum Guide home in La Jolla, San Diego
Cute and cosy Plum Guide home Evening Gem ticks all the boxes in terms of La Jolla holiday property. With space for six guests and a beautiful outdoor terrace perfect for family meals, it’s the ideal home away from home. All you Dads who fancy yourselves grill masters, you won’t want to miss barbecuing here – the serious equipment will have you wanting to upgrade whatever piece of junk machinery you currently have in your garden.
Beach Bulb, Plum Guide home in La Jolla, San Diego
If you fancy being in walking distance to the beach, we recommend Beach Bulb. You're moments away from the sand here so you can dip your toes in the water just steps from your living room. This Plum Guide property is also home to a guitar, so you former musician wannabes can embarrass yourselves showing your kids how you used to rock out. Just make sure they’re not filming you.
Encinitas
When it comes to places to visit in California, Encinitas is the quintessential California beach town. Another great option when it comes to where to stay in San Diego, it's as famous for its waves as its laid back atmosphere and jaw-dropping scenery. This classic surf town is located about 26 miles north of downtown San Diego so it’s a lovely escape from city life, while still being easily accessible.
Encinitas, California
Just a few blocks east of downtown is the beautiful Moonlight Beach. Stroll here for a day on the sand with your family and you’ll feel like you’re on a tropical island, only with all the amenities of an American city. If you’re in the mood to exercise your credit card, you’ll love the wide array of shopping along the 101 between Encinitas Blvd and K Street. Some highlights include cosy bookshop, Artifact Books, Vuori for chic loungewear and Hansen Surfboards if you want to feel like you’re living in some type of Beach Boys throwback for half an hour or so.
The Lumber Cabin, Plum Guide home in Encinitas, California
Plum Guide home The Lumber Cabin, located in the Leucadia area, features breathtaking timber construction that will have you feeling like you’re in some sort of upscale farmhouse on the beach. A wood burning indoor fireplace and an outdoor fire pit make for the cosiest of family gathering spots no matter the weather (or you can put your kids to bed and enjoy the embers glowing alone with your better half).
San Diego
We certainly can’t leave out San Diego proper on a list of where to stay in San Diego. This casual and preppy beachside city on the Pacific coast of California is known globally for its white sand beaches, family friendly parks and consistently warm and mild climate. If you're in San Diego with kids, your tots will love a day spent at the San Diego Zoo in massive Balboa Park. Elegant art galleries, museums, shops and restaurants will ensure the adults enjoy themselves thoroughly too. You’ll be right in the centre of the action, while still maintaining a sense of peace and tranquility at the Plum Guide home of your choice.
My Blue Horizon, Plum Guide home in San Diego
My Blue Horizon in the Bird Rock neighbourhood is the perfect couples escape for you and your partner to enjoy some romance and relaxation. This gated home features an ultra swanky kitchen, beautiful gardens and even a butler upon request to attend to your every need (don't mind if we do). The ocean views from this house are sure to put you in the mood for love, especially as you watch the sunset over the Pacific.
Razor Clam, Plum Guide home in San Diego, California
Razor Clam in Pacific Beach is also a great shout in terms of where to stay in San Diego. Located within walking distance to the ocean, the home features a barbecue and a fire pit for family nights in. The neighbourhood is adorable too so you’ll love starting your day with an exploratory stroll.
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