Best hike: Torrey Pines Beach Trail Loop Easy rated trail that lets you take a loop of the entire area. Other trails branch off of here, so you can make it last even longer if you'd like to add on some miles! Some fun trails to add on: Red Ridge Trail, Razor Point, Parry Grove, etc.

Whether or not you're out hiking, be sure to check out the beach while you're here! The non-gated off street parking will be cheaper (or free?) than parking within the Natural Reserve parking lot.

• Sunset Cliffs Trail Pro tip: want to find the staircase pictures on my social channels? Head to the intersection of Sunset Cliffs Blvd and Ladera St. Park as close as you can, but it'll be very busy! Tip #2: IF the tides are low enough, you can even walk into a cave below the cliffs. We walked past this cave, as it's fenced off from above for obvious safety reasons. There are a few ways down, but do NOT attempt without checking tide charts. It's recommended for the tide to be in the negatives in order for it to be safe to go here. We did not get lucky last time around, but hoping for next time!

Location of aforementioned stairs

• La Jolla Beach Trail • Tide Pools Walk (be sure to check the tides!)

The sea cave does cost money ($10 for adults), and requires descending a long, steep, and slippery set of stairs. You're allowed 15 mins before returning to the top. The cave store where you can enter is free to go into and browse around though!

Tons of things to check out here including several trails! Highly recommend walking Palm Canyon Trail, Balboa Park Loop, and checking out the Spanish Village Art Center! Go early in the morning to beat the crowds, and don't forget to stop and look at the gorgeous architecture!

PSA: Very very slippery - use caution.

Something to be aware of is that this beach is clothing optional.

This is not a pedestrian pier, but it's a gorgeous photo spot, and you can see many surfers here!

Decently outside of San Diego, but a good honorable mention if you're in the area in spring!

Again, a bit north of SD!

Stumbled upon this place while we were staying in Mission Beach down the road. Pro tip: get the fries and/or the wrap! They also feature adult capri suns!

A bit touristy of course, but a nice homage back to Hawaii and a great view from the patio

Perhaps it was the margs, but this unassuming little resto was absolutely delicious! They were open late and very quick service as well.

Pro tip: Get the tacos and go during happy hour!

Quite literally the best donut I've ever had. Get the cranberry. And try some others for good measure. Mexican mocha coffee was also good!

Very popular brunch spot. No longer a "hidden" gem, so arrive early!

Pro tip: check out their specials and try an açaí bowl!

Pro tip: try a flight of small tasters to see what you prefer! Then, walk down the street and check out the rest of Little Italy

This place isn't outwardly labeled as a speakeasy, so you may have trouble finding the entrance if you're unaware. The entry will be in a lit shop next door. It's not really labeled and looked like you're entering into pickup food shop. They take you straight through the "freezer door" into the bar!

Moxy is a hotel, but the bar is right down in the lobby! Cool area with games and such. Not very common, but we waited out the rain here!

Try a mimosa or margarita flight!

First Native American owned brewery in SoCal

We went during the week, but I'm sure it's more lively on weekends!