Now through April see the Gray Whales, and from May to October see the Blue Whales, in Los Angeles, Marina Del Rey, Palos Verdes, San Pedro, Long Beach, Newport, Dana Point, and San Diego

With summer like weather upon us, Southern California is a target rich area for the whale migrations of fifty foot grays and hundred foot blue whales.  To capture this wondrous display of nature’s most magnificent creatures and inspiration in the water, or from land–here’s

Travelin’ Local’s Annual Edition of:

The Best Places in Southern California To Go Whale Watching

Including The Best Guide of Boat Tours from LA to San Diego, including the  best  land based Viewpoints

And just to pique your interest, we’ve included a special Marine Wildlife by Air Tour

Right now you can see more Gray Whales heading for their calving grounds in the breeding areas at Baja’s southern tip. Starting in May, you can see the stunning Blue Whale, the largest known animal on the planet. The Blue Whales feed off the Southern California coast and travel in pairs in their migration, which can be seen until October.

Along the way, huge pods of Dolphins are also frequently spotted off our coast near Redondo Beach, Marina Del Rey, Long Beach, Corona del Mar, and San Clemente.

For your outing take sunglasses, sunblock, a hat, light jacket, binoculars, camera, rubber soled shoes and  Dramamine for  sea sickness.

Be part of this 5,000 mile migration.  Claim your viewpoint now!

Southern California Whale Watching Tours:

Los Angeles – San Pedro – Redondo Beach – Marina Del Rey – Long Beach

American Cetacean Society Whale Watching Cruises, P.O. Box 1391, San Pedro, CA 90733-1391

Belmont Pier Sportfishing, 2939 Ocean Ave., Long Beach.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium has whale watching tours out of San Pedro. 3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro.

Marina del Rey Sportfishing . Dock 52, Fiji Way Marina del Rey

Los Angeles Harbor Sportfishing  79 Berth, San Pedro.

LA Whale Watching  Harbor Breeze Yacht Charts and Cruises, 100 Aquarium Way, Dock #2, Long Beach, CA 90802

Redondo Sportfishing,.233 North Harbor Drive, Redondo Beach.;

Spirit Cruises, 429 Shoreline Village Dr #100, Long Beach;

Newport Beach

Newport Landing Whale Watching, 309 Palm St, A, Newport Beach   

Davey’s Locker, 400 Main St., Newport Beach

Funzone Boat Company has many Newport Harbor tours including a sea lion cruise, 600 Edgewater Place, Balboa

Dana Point

• Festival of the Whales in Dana Pt. March 3-4 and 10-11

Capt. Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Safari, 34451 Ensenada Place, Dana Pt.

Dream Catchers Yacht Charters, 24450 Dana Pt. Harbor Dr., Bldg. A1, Dana Pt.

Aventura Sailing Association – one of the few whale watching tours powered by the wind on luxury sailboats. 24707 Dana Drive, Dana Pt.

Dana Wharf Watching and Sport Fishing with special notes:

•  Valentine Sunset Cruise – Dana Wharf Watching tours offers a sunset    cruise complete with champagne in search of whales and dolphins.
• Ocean Institute of Marine Mammal Cruises – check out the field trips for kids and learn more about all of the opportunities at the Ocean Institute.
• Art Lessons with famed artist, Wyland in the Wild offers dockside art lessons for kids plus a whale watching cruise.

San Diego

Hornblower Cruises and Events 1066 North Harbor Drive, San Diego

San Diego Harbor Excursions - Birch Aquarium at Scripps has twice-daily cruises with San Diego Harbor Excursions. 3- and 5-day whale watching expeditions  to Baja California are also offered… 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, California.

Sail Jada Charters, 4318 Montalvo Street, San Diego

Helgren’s Sportfishing,. 315 Harbor Dr S, Oceanside

San Diego Maritime Museum - daily whale watching tours aboard the historic yacht, America, between December and April. 1492 North Harbor Dr., San Diego

Adventure Rib Rides  – a fun, fast ride onboard an authentic Navy SEAL Rigid Inflatable Boat (R.I.B.).1380 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego.

Dennis Conner’s America’s Cup Experience‎, 1050 North Harbor Drive, San Diego

San Diego Boat Tours, Shelter Cove Marina, 2240 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego.

Blue Horizon Sportfishing, 2803 Emerson St, San Diego‎.

San Diego Whale Watching Excursions‎, 1050 North Harbor Drive, San Diego.

Best Viewpoints for Whale Watching in So. CA

Balboa/Newport Beach – Some of the most fertile waters in California are just outside Newport Bay. There you will find the grey whale migration thru April, and in the summer many blue whales.

Channel Islands National Park- Some 10,000 grey whales move through the Santa Barbara Channel between the Channel Islands and the California coast. Then off Santa Rosa Island the summer offers sightings of the blue whale.
Dana Point – One of the prime viewpoints in South Orange County, the migration season is celebrated here in March with the Festival of Whales. The Ocean Institute also provides a network of classes and hands on marine experiences for kids of all ages.

Long Beach – For LA visitors, this is an easy drive and there are several choices in tour groups.

Palos Verdes Peninsula – This is one of the best whale watching viewpoints in the L.A. area, close to Los Angeles on the Palos Verdes Peninsula at Point Vincente.

San Diego – The Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego, The city’s land-based viewing spot, with an outdoor observatory providing  a view 400 feet above sea level. San Diego has been cited as one of the best whale watching spots in the world.

Ventura – Grey whales can be seen in the Santa Barbara Channel now thru March. From July until September you may see humpback and blue whales, or killer whales.
From the Air…

Riter Aviation VIP Whale Watching Tours – Marine Wildlife Tours is a VIP whale watching tour in a light aircraft out of Torrance airport, between Los Angeles and Long Beach. Seeing whales from the air with the pilot able to scour the ocean for views puts a whole new spin on whale watching.

Why go to a chain Mexican restaurant when you can happily indulge in Taco shops without ever crossing the International Border?

With a slew of options to choose from, it can be hard for visitors and locals alike to find a stellar place to grab the standard of Mexican food–a good, street style Taco!

That being said, there’s one place just next to Downtown that offers up great street style tacos to fill your belly with delight: It’s “El Paisa” and it’s located just off 25th St. and Imperial Avenue.

Heading over into this neighborhood might make you raise an eyebrow or two because although it’s definitely not the nicest part of town, it’s definitely worth the experience. And dessert will be waiting for you right across the street if you visit in the evening!

El Paisa is a 24 hour Mexican restaurant serving up some of the best Carnitas I’ve ever had. I typically order 3 of the “Mini Tacos” aka “Taquitos” (street style tacos). They cost about $1.70 per taco.

They are served on small corn tortillas, with a mess of onions and cilantro and a couple dabs of guacamole. Also, you’ll get a to add from a little tray of salsas, limes, radishes and a small bowl of chips to munch on while you wait for your order to come out.

The carnitas come out perfectly golden and delicious. Carnitas are a very sweet, tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork and the carnitas here are simply outstanding. They have a wonderful outer crisp and are so tender and delicious. I typically add a little dash of salsa for a tiny kick of spice, but they really don’t need much else than that. Pure porky heaven!

If you’re looking for a purely “California” dish and are not in the mood for tacos, then consider ordering the Carne Asada Fries, which are essentially a bunch of french fries served up with Carne Asada (seasoned beef), guacamole, sour cream and cheese. It’s a mountain of food and typically best shared with a friend or two and may send you into a food coma right afterwards.  It’ll be worth it though.

After you’ve finished up with your tacos and it’s in the evening, head across the street towards the market. There’s a little stand set up outside of the market serving up some deep-fried goodness for you to savor: Churros!

Churros El Tigre serves up freshly made churros for the masses, although it’s just a tiny little stand with a funnel system and a fryer. You can stand and actually watch your own churros as they’re cooked as the gentleman cranks out the dough and it drops it right into the hot fryer.

He then turns the churros over and over again, until they’re golden brown and crisp. He then scoops up the hot churros into a basket, which he then passes over to the next person who tosses then immediately douses them into a cinnamon-sugar mixture. The churros are now fully coated with cinnamon and sugar goodness and are put into a little baggie for you.

A mere $2.50 will get you 8 pieces of freshly made churros. They’re not as large as the typical churro you are used to, as these are a bit smaller and thinner. They have a wonderful exterior crunch and a soft center. The cinnamon-sugar mixture melts right onto the churros and they have the perfect ratio of spices and sugars to just make it such an outstanding treat and delight.

Getting street style tacos and churros is the perfect way to wind down an evening in San Diego and is also one experience you can savor without hassling to cross the border into Mexico.

Then San Diego might qualify in Priceonomics‘ top-ten list of the “Most Hipster Places in America.”

But for now, San Diego finished 11th, just behind Honolulu.

The price-guide website compiled the list of most-hip cities by looking at the number of fixed-gear bicycles (aka “fixies”) for sale per capita in 96 cities across America. (Don’t ask why).

“Fixies (fixed gear bikes) are considered to be a strong indicator of hipsterness,” read the post. Because of the minimalism of this fixed gear system, the bikes tend to be aesthetically pleasing but somewhat challenging to ride. This enigmatic combination may be what draws hipsters to the bikes, or not.”

To the surprise of many, including those at OC Weekly, Orange County finished at the top of the list. (You may ask me why, on this!)

The good news. California’s a pretty hipster friendly state! In all there were 7 cities in California that  finished in the top ten.

The San Diego Museum Council annually prepares the city’s month-long promotion Museum for February, presented by Macy’s, this year.

The following Museums are participating for this annual San Diego’s Museum Month:

• Adobe Chapel Museum
• Barona Cultural Center & Museum
• Birch Aquarium at Scripps
• Bonita Museum & Cultural Center
• California Center for the Arts, Escondido
• Coronado Museum of History & Art
• Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum
• Heritage of the Americas Museum
• La Jolla Historical Society
• LUX Art Institute
• Maritime Museum of San Diego
• Marston House
• Mingei International Museum
• Mingei International Museum North County
• Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – Downtown
• Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego – La Jolla
• Museum of Making Music
• Museum of Photographic Arts
• Oceanside Museum of Art
• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
• Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
• San Diego Air & Space Museum
• San Diego Archaeological Center
• San Diego Automotive Museum
• San Diego Botanic Gardens
• San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
• San Diego History Center Museum, Library & Junipero Serra Museum
• San Diego Model Railroad Museum
• San Diego Museum of Art
• San Diego Museum of Man
• San Diego Natural History Museum
• The New Children’s Museum
• Tijuana Estuary Visitors Center
• Timken Museum of Art
• USS Midway Museum
• Veterans Museum & Memorial Center
• VisionsArt Museum
• Water Conservation Garden
• Whaley House Museum
• Women’s History Museum and Education Center

Along with its sheer physical beauty, its many other places to go and things to do—from shopping, dining, and its beaches—-San Diego’s has its own substantive and wide, and art and cultural infrastructure.

FromSan Diego’s iconic Museum of Photographic arts and its two San Diego Museums of Contemporary Art—downtown and inLa Jolla—San Diegomuseums offer exploration and education for a diverse interests. So now there are 40 new reasons to visit San Diegoalong with the other many fun and free things to do here.

Considered as one of the most modern cities of California, San Diego has beaches and lots of parks to explore such as the SeaWorld theme park, the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. San Diego is the nearest gateway to those who wish to stay away from the frantic frenzy of the city of Los Angeles. With plenty of cheap flights to San Diego, arriving here could be quite easy and hassle free.

Well, before arriving, do check out for the weather conditions in order to experience a pleasant stay in San Diego.  Since San Diego is a coastal city, the weather most of the times is quite cool but, in case you travel eastwards or towards the valley, the weather might get slightly cooler especially during the evening times.

The Kuumba Fest is a three day festival highlighting the African-American existence through workshops, African marketplace, health fair, community leadership awards, Hip Hop Showcase and much more.  This event is one of the longest running and premier celebration which has been taking place in San Diego for almost 2 decades and is usually held during the first quarter of each year.

Coinciding with the Christian season of Lent, Mardi Gras is held on Fat Tuesday in downtown San Diego at the Gaslamp Quarter.

The annual Lakeside Rodeo event is held every April which comprises of multiple events such as Miss Rodeo Lakeside Pageant, BMX bicycle races, Lakeside Chili Cook off, barrel racing exhibitions, weddings and many more events.

San Diego offers lots of things to do and enjoy especially if you are traveling along with your family.

Popular beaches include Central beach, Ocean Beach, La Jolla Shores, Moonlight Beach and many more, each of them are ideal to be visited by families. The Moonlight Beach is an extremely friendly beach for there are lifeguards, playgrounds, picnic tables, firepits and much more for families to enjoy.

The San Diego Zoo is a must visit for it is a well developed zoo with numerous animals, exhibit areas and animal themed events. The children can pet animals, feed them and lots more. With a couple of options of exploring the zoo, you could do it by foot or through a double-decker guided tour buses, or the Skyfari Aerial Tram, you could simply take choose your preferred way out.

If you wish to take your family out on an all entertaining and exciting trip, simply plan your trip to San Diego. With cheap tickets to San Diego available online, you can book them while you schedule your trip by referring to the travel portals online.

Having fun in San Diego doesn’t require a lot of money; in fact, many things to see and do here are absolutely free. With 70 miles of beautiful beaches, near-perfect weather year-round, and a variety of magnificent settings countywide, San Diego offers a fun and inexpensive getaway during all seasons of the year.

Free Activities for Kids and Adults in San Diego

1. Head to San Diego’s many beaches, all free to the public, to swim, body surf or hang-ten. Play in the sand, collect seashells or just bask in the sun.
2. Visit La Jolla Cove and see the magnificent sunset on the ocean. La Jolla Cove is one of the most spectacular natural settings in the world.
3. Visit downtown San Diego’s Seaport Village for hours of free entertainment, leisurely strolling and window shopping. Enjoy a laid-back day of hanging out in the grass and watching the many passing yachts and ships on picturesque San Diego Bay, or take in the sights from one of the many bay-view eateries.
4. Stroll through the 16½-block historic Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego and view the renovated turn-of-the-century Victorian architecture, home to boutiques, art galleries, specialty shops and more.
5. Fly a kite along the grassy field in the Tecolote Shores of Mission Bay Park, a 4,600-acre aquatic park. Here, away from trees and overhead wires, friends and family gather to launch colorful kites into the bay breezes.
6. Enjoy free organ concerts at 2:00 pm on Sundays at the Spreckels Organ Pavillion in Balboa Park. The Organ Pavillion features one of world’s largest outdoor pipe organs, a San Diego landmark since 1914, where organists play traditional favorites, waltzes and show tunes on enormous 32-foot pipes.
7. Visit Old Town and witness the living legacy of San Diego history. Guests are also invited to wander free through Old Town’s historic buildings, including the blacksmith shop, Seeley Stables, Stewart House, Estudillo House and the oldest schoolhouse in San Diego.
8. Bike or jog along Mission Bay Park’s many trails. Joggers and walkers share more than 20 miles of scenic running paths that wind through sunlight and shade near the shoreline and feature workout courses at planned stations along the route.
9. Visit the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista for a free tour of the 150-acre facility, including training fields and tracks, athlete dorms and the Otay Lake Reservoir. Tours are offered from the Copley Visitor Center at 11:00 am on Saturday. Self-guided tours are available daily between 9:00 am – 4:00 pm.
10. Stargaze outside the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park on the first Wednesday of every month. The San Diego Astronomy Association sets up huge telescopes to offer guests a great view of all the stars in the night sky.
11. Take a scenic, one-hour drive to Mt. Laguna. Once there, hop out for an invigorating hike and enjoy the fresh mountain air whispering through the pines.
12. Step back in time with a stop in Julian, a century-old gold mining town in the Cuyamaca Mountains. Pick up a free map at the Chamber of Commerce for a self-guided walking tour of the area’s historic sites and later enjoy a slice of homemade apple pie – a Julian specialty!
13. Grab your picnic basket and head to Torrey Pines State Park where you can watch talented and daring hang gliders do tricks in the strong winds that sweep along the coastline cliffs.
14. The 59-Mile Scenic Drive allows travelers to take in all of the must-see places in San Diego.
15. Rollerblade, skateboard or bicycle along the Mission Beach Boardwalk, a scenic 3-mile boardwalk along picturesque Mission and Pacific Beaches.
16. Visit Mission Trails Regional Park to explore the cultural, historical and recreational aspects of San Diego. Stop at the Visitor’s Center and learn about the wonders of nature and the people who once lived on the land. Or, roam through the park’s 40 miles of natural and developed hiking and biking trails.
17. Go scuba diving or snorkeling off San Diego’s shores and see spectacular creatures of the sea. La Jolla Cove offers some of the clearest waters on the California coast, as well as miles of protected underwater preserves to explore.
18. Go bird watching at the Torrey Pines State Reserve. Located high above Torrey Pines State Beach, the area is home of the rare and ancient Torrey Pine as well as a beautiful protected habitat for swifts, thrashers, woodpeckers and wrentits.
19. Stroll through Balboa Park and marvel at its beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. While there, take advantage of the park’s variety of offerings, including 15 museums (select museums free on Tuesdays for San Diego residents), free daily park tours, public organ concerts (Sundays), and spectacular gardens (seven are free daily).
20. Visit other museums around town that offer similar free days. Both the downtown and La Jolla locations of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego are free on the third Thursday of each month from 5:00 – 7:00 pm.
21. Gather family, friends and firewood for a cozy beach bonfire at one of the beaches in San Diego County, including Coronado Beach, La Jolla Shores and Mission Beach.
22. Explore the tidepools in Point Loma at low tide and get up close and personal with flowery anemones, scampering shore crabs, elusive octopus, spongy deadman’s fingers and many other magnificent sea creatures.
23. Drive to the top of Mt. Soledad in La Jolla for breathtaking, 360-degree views of San Diego, including the gently curving La Jolla coastline and Mission Bay. Spectacular views of San Diego’s East County communities also await guests at the top of Mt. Helix.
24. Visit the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and experience the natural beauty of the desert. The 600,000-acre park is one of the largest state parks in the United States and each spring, following winter rains, explodes into a rainbow of colorful wildflower blossoms.
25. Take a scenic walk along The Big Bay, San Diego’s “largest attraction.” With 27 miles of waterfront featuring bayside parks, marinas, hundreds of shops and restaurants, and miles of promenades and bikeways, the Big Bay appeals to all ages and interests.

]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/25-fun-free-things-to-do-in-san-diego-2/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/the-top-10-reasons-to-visit-san-diego-in-2012/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/the-top-10-reasons-to-visit-san-diego-in-2012/#comments Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:38:48 +0000 D. J. Schwartz http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=32890

View from Torrey Pines Cliff

The coastal strip of San Diego is more than a hundred miles long, and with its Mediterranean climate of mild wet winters, and warm dry summers, results in a long growing season, and probably the best weather anywhere in the world.

San Diego’s average temperatures, range from a January minimum of 45F, to an August maximum of 80F, with a yearly average of 62F!

Hey, Life’s a Beach.

The majority of rainfall comes during the winter and early spring, with a seasonal average of less than 10 inches.

Located to the south are Blacks beach and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography pier.

San Diego Skyline

As we celebrate the start of 2012,here is the top ten reasons  you should visit San Diego in 2012.

1. The Best: In Travel + Leisure’s recent America’s Favorite Cities Reader Poll, San Diego was voted the #1 Destination for Best Weather and Best Spring Break. We also scored #2 for Best Summer Vacation, Family Vacation, 4th of July Destination and Most Attractive People.

2. Fabulous Food: A slew of restaurants are slated to open or have recently opened to offer visitors amazing culinary choices. Hot on the radar is UnderBelly which recently opened in Little Italy, Saltbox inside thePalomar San Diego hotel, and Brian Malarkey’s latest venture, Gingham.

3. A Whale of a Time: Majestic California gray whales make their annual migration from the Arctic waters to the warm lagoons in the Gulf of California for breeding. These “peaceful giants of the sea” come within miles of San Diego’s coastline.

4. Worth the Money: Budget Travel Magazine came out with it’s Top 10 Budget Travel Destinations for 2012, and named San Diego among them. Be sure to check out our 25 free things to do in San Diego. One of my favorites…Mission Bay Park.

5. The Great Outdoors: San Diego’s temperate weather allows for outdoor activities all year round. Go hiking along the water in Torrey Pines State Reserve or mountain biking through the natural landscapes of Mission Trails Regional Park. Here are a few more ideas to get outdoors. There is no reason you should stay inside while in San Diego!

6. Craft Brew: San Diego is home to the nation’s best brew pubs including Pizza Port which just recently won Small Brewpub of the Year at the 2011 Great American Beer Festival.

7. The Beach…enough said: With over 100 miles of beaches, it’s no wonder that in June 2011, The Travel Channel’s famed “Dr. Beach” announced his annual picks for the Best Beaches in America and Coronado Beach was named No. 2.

8. San Diego Nightlife: San Diego’s nightlife scene has never been hotter. San Diego was among the top 10 hottest New Year’s Eve destinations according to a hotwire.com survey. Visitors can celebrate all year long in the Gaslamp Quarter with over 100 restaurants and clubs, it is the place to be any time of year.

9. Get Your Culture On: Be sure to visit Balboa Park and its 85 cultural and recreational organizations. My favorites are the San Diego Model Railroad Museum and The San Diego Museum of Art. Not to be missed this year is the new exhibit at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, Black Holes: Space Warps & Time Twists.

10. Surf Culture: San Diego is widely known for its laid back vibe with some of the best surfing spots in Southern California. To top it off, we are also home to the world’s first Center for Surf Research at San Diego State University (not a bad way to spend your college years!)

As they say, in San Diego, “Life’s a Beach”.

Frankly, walking is really the best option to enjoy downtown Carlsbad and its sundry shops, restaurants, and architecture, and historic buildings and other points of interest.

When I stopped by the Shipley-Magee House, my tour guide handed me a brochure of the many historic sites in Carlsbad.

Therefore, based on this, I took the tour and then created a self-guided walking tour, using the brochure as a reference guide.

Keep in mind that most of these houses are now private residences, so please respect the owner’s property.

View Downtown Carlsbad Historic Walking Tour in a larger map

I’m also featuring a few of my own original photographs of Downtown Carlsbad during the tour; and if you click the map’s icons, you’ll be able to see more photos and historic information:

St. Michael’s Episcopal Church

Frazier’s Well/Alt Karlsbad

Twin Inns/Ocean House

Cohn House/Norte

Gage House/Monterey Condominiums

I hope you enjoy walking the Downtown Carlsbad Historic Walking Tour, as much as I did, and for more on Carlsbad’s rich history, here’s a great video:

However, in addition to all of the great components of my stay at and around the Hotel, another fantastic part of staying at the Hilton Garden Inn in Carlsbad, is the creative, delicious, and on-spot meals they serve, and which I greatly enjoyed eating.

After checking in, I immediately went out to investigate the city.

Upon returning, I was exhausted, so I turned on the TV, laid down on the big, comfy bed and relaxed a little.

And knowing I was going to eat dinner at the hotel’s Carlsbad Beach Bistro just off the front lobby, was going to satiate my hunger and thirst, added to the pleasure of my relaxation.

I was fortunate to be joined by two family friends who drove up from La Jolla, which is only a short drive to the hotel.

So, as soon as they arrived, we sat down to dinner.

I had already looked over the menu in my room, so I knew exactly what I was going to order, but my friends took their time perusing their choices.

For starters, I ordered the Crunchy Shrimp with a subtle Chipotle Lime Aioli sauce:

One of my friends ordered the Papas & Pollo Quesadilla:

I get my love of steak from my Father, so the 12oz. New York Strip with Garlic Mashed Potatoes it is:

For dessert, the three of us shared two different desserts, the Strawberry Cheesecake:

And the Apple Crisp ala Mode:

I can tell you, none of us were disappointed in the quality and quantity of the food cooked and served to us. The food was all melt-in-your mouth savory, and my juicy steak was cooked perfectly.

The addition of the Lemon Chive Butter added to the aroma and its lovely mixture of flavors.

After some quiet conversation, I had to bid adieu to my friends and went to bed.

Upon awaking, and knowing I had to drive back to Los Angeles shortly; I stopped by the restaurant for Their breakfast.

The breakfast menu was divine and included many marvelous and delicious choices:

From cereal to fresh fruit; and omelets cooked to order with a myriad of potently delicious toppings of your choice, breakfast has a new meaning at the Carlsbad Beach Bistro:

Divine and Sublime.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/delicious-food-from-the-hilton-garden-inn-in-carlsbad/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/early-southern-californias-historic-carlsbad/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/early-southern-californias-historic-carlsbad/#comments Fri, 23 Sep 2011 14:15:15 +0000 D. J. Schwartz http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=30511 During my recent weekend get-a-way to the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad, my aim was to soak up and absorb as much of the local community as possible; while relaxing as well.

So, I ended up going to the local historical society, of course.

Located at 258 Beech Avenue in downtown Carlsbad, the Historical Society calls the Shipley-Magee House its home.

If you’re fortunate to be in Carlsbad on Friday-Sunday from 11:00am until 3:00pm, you can stop by the Shipley-Magee House for a guided tour. That’s what I did.

However, if you’re not available to personally see the house–here’s a few of the photos I took while I was there; and some of its background and history:

Originally built in 1887, this Craftsman’s Kit home was owned by Samuel Church Smith. Upon the discovery of mineral water, Smith along with Gerhard Schutte, D.D. Wadsworth, and Henry Nelson organized the Carlsbad Land and Water Company.

The mineral water was tested and so closely resembled the water from the famed Karlsbad Spa in then Bohemia, the name of the new town became clear, with just a hint of Westernization.

Ergo, California’s City of Carlsbad was born.

In fact, you can still obtain the water from the famed well today. Indeed, it’s located right across the street from the Shipley-Magee House.

In the late 1890s, Alexander Shipley, a retired Foreign Service diplomat, purchased the home and lived in it with his wife Julia and daughter Florence. In 1912, Florence married Hugh Magee and moved to Pala. Upon the death of her father and husband, she returned to Carlsbad in the 1940′s.

Most of the period furniture in the house was donated to the Historical Society by the previous owners of the nearby Twin Inns, which was built in 1917.

As sole inheritor of her parents’ estate and having no children of her own, upon her death in 1974, Florence donated the Magee house to the City of Carlsbad as a historic and recreational park.

Today, in Magee Park, you will not only find the Shipley-Magee House, but also Heritage Hall, which was built in 1926 as St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, but when the city of Carlsbad incorporated in 1952, the Church then began as Carlsbad’s first City Hall and Police Station.

Also located in Magee Park is the Granary, which was originally part of the Twin Inns.

One of the Twin Inns signature dishes was their famous fried chicken. They raised the chickens themselves, hence the Granary. In order to promote their chicken, the Twin Inns used to have huge plastic chickens standing in front of the building.

You can catch a peek at them through the Shipley-Magee barn window and the Granary is behind the barn.

Each of these buildings are available for private events. For more details, just click the links above.

Carlsbad is full of early Southern California History–and next week Travelin’ Local will take you on a walking tour of many of the highlights from this famed beach town.

And, during my stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach, my room faced the aquatint of this magnificent stretch of beach; so I was blessed with both the Pacific’s view; as well as its breeze and crashing of waves which lulled me to sleep.

Here, being near the ocean surfing, is but one option one may have here at Carlsbad State beach–which is literally across the street from the Hilton Garden Inn.

With its nearly seven miles of unspoiled, uncrowded, and sun-drenched beaches, including Carlsbad State Beach aka Tamarack Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach, visitors can swim, fish, surf, or just soak in the sun as you walk along the water’s edge.

Carlsbad has an extensive 30 mile trail system of both paved and unpaved trails, one of which follows the coast highway.

Most of Carlsbad trails are dog-friendly–with leash restrictions–and many of the trails are open to bikes.

Speaking of bikes, many of the roads here, including Carlsbad Boulevard, have a bike lane. So when you plan your visit definitely pack your bike, if you have one. Of course, there are places to rent a bike here as well. One of my favorite sights during my pampered stay here, was being able to watch a family of 6, all riding bikes, including a preschooler who rode a bike extension with her father.

In addition to the beach, Carlsbad has over 1,000 acres of protected lagoons and nature preserves. Obviously, popular spots for fishing and hiking–this open space provides everyone a chance to enjoy nature, exercise, relax and take in its fantastic views.

And of course, Tamarack, has some of the best surfing in all of Southern California.

It appears to me as one of those win-win-win-win-win-win situations.

And you know what? I ain’t gonna complain cause I know that every time I make my sojourn to the the Hilton Garden Inn, I get to enjoy both the gorgeous hotel and all of its amenities and all else that wonderful Carlsbad has to offer. I’m just not one to turn down a great thing.
]]> http://www.travelinlocal.com/surfing-swimming-and-hiking-at-carlsbad-state-beach/feed/ 0 http://www.travelinlocal.com/a-weekend-getaway-to-the-gorgeous-and-tres-chic-carlsbads-hilton-garden-inn/ http://www.travelinlocal.com/a-weekend-getaway-to-the-gorgeous-and-tres-chic-carlsbads-hilton-garden-inn/#comments Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:18:25 +0000 D. J. Schwartz http://www.travelinlocal.com/?p=30428 Living in LA is work, more work, and more work; which of course induces major stress. To be sure, on the weekends here, often enough, a new event, adventure, or just the choice to stay at home become our options.

But, often times along with those options comes traffic, crowds, and if one decides to spend time around the house–again more stress–work, cleaning, et. al.

But all we really want is to get the heck out of dodge for some real down time.

Not too far from Los Angeles, a relaxing and perfectly relaxing getaway weekend awaits you at the beautiful and stunning Carlsbad, California.

Just 90 minutes south of Los Angeles, Carlsbad is a small beach town that’s home to a little over 100,000 people. A tony beach enclave, it’s also one of the wealthiest communities in both CA and the USA.

Carlsbad welcomes tourists, shoppers, and beach lovers alike.

Located right across the street from world the famous Carlsbad State beach, the Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach, just happens to be but a stone’s throw from the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, and only three miles from the very popular Legoland®.

From the welcoming smiles that greet you as you enter, to the plush pillows on the bed, to the professional Herman Miller chair that adorns your private office space, the Hilton Garden Inn can is the perfect location for your next business meeting, or family vacation, or perhaps a lovers retreat.

Its features include:

Hilton Garden Inn Carlsbad Beach also includes:

• Carlsbad Beach Bistro open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Evening room service
• On-site catering with over 5,000 square feet of meeting space
• 24-Hour Pavilion Pantry® convenience mart
• Pavilion Lounge
• Complimentary shuttle service within five miles
• Complimentary self parking
• Complimentary 24-Hour Business Center
• Complimentary wireless Internet access in the lobby, pool, and restaurant

And a

• Wonderful outdoor heated pool and whirlpool

, and a

• Complimentary workout facility

Sounds like a place you never want to leave and that’s exactly how I felt.

Upon your arrival what’s in store for you?

From the indoors:

And outdoors:

No want or need becomes necessary after you enter the Carlsbad Hilton Garden Inn, plus some.

There’s much more to do, see and experience here, so this is just a brief introduction to paradise. More stories are on their way!

At the left edge of this piece of paradise, is its long and unique jetty, extending thousands of yards, and one may walk it without too much trouble, because its well worn rocks and boulders are fairly close, and traversing it just requires paying attention.

To the right of the South Mission Jetty, the waves mostly break large to the right, making it one of the more exciting waves in the world to ride. But for those that don’t know the break, when it’s breaking large, you should paddle out next to the jetty to get to the breakers.

Many a surfer has gotten hurt on a big day paddling out in the middle just to get pulled and then slammed against the foreboding jetty when the waves are large.

Another trick is that after you ride the larger and longer waves to the north, the best way to paddle back out is to literally walk back to the jetty again and start the process one more time.

Another little known fact about South Mission is that in less than an hour the surf can change from flat to 14 or more feet—so if you surf here you always have to be on guard.

Situated at the southernmost tip of Mission Beach, the area is tony, fun, and there’s always something to do here for everyone—catch some rays, go for a bike ride along the boardwalk, play some hoops or volleyball, or just enjoy the beach and its park.

The greatest thing about most of San Diego’s beaches is that they’re easy to get to,there’s typically plenty of free parking, the people are friendly, and for all of you you horn dogs out there—the women are undeniably attractive.

If you surf, however, I must warn you that guys at South Mission have been surfing here for literally decades, and its localism is notorious. Be that as it may, show respect, let the more experienced surfers get the larger waves, and over time, prove your abilities.

There are plenty of hotels and other inns to stay in and around South Mission, so what’s your excuse for not experiencing a bit of paradise in Travelin’ Local’s backyard.

Albeit, there’s always some new store, building and development that’s built in and around the area, one thing is for sure—Pacific Beach’s character and inviting waters never waiver to those that are its local beach lovers.

Above we can clearly see the famous PB Pier and its delicious aquatint water and waves from the coast.

Looking further to the north, we can see the beach’s coastline and beach extend all the way to the furthermost tip, and to the north of that would be Tourmaline. (You could actually paddle your way there, but why bother).

The beach is notoriously mellow—in its break, its inhabitants, and its reputation, so it’s not hard to see its allure for beach lovers year round.

In 1902, when Pacific Beach was in its infancy, beach front lots measuring 25 usually sold in pairs for between $350 – $700; but if you wanted to live two to five blocks from the ocean, the prices started at $150. By 1950, the population of Pacific Beach reached 30,000, and the average home sold for $12,000.

Today, some of the very same homes sell for millions.

It’s located just off Mission Blvd from either Grand or Geffner, and I used to surf here for years—among the many other fine San Diego Beaches.

Although typically a predictable beach break where there’s usually some surf–occasionally it awakes from its slumber and the entire beach becomes a surfer’s paradise—with the entire coastline breaking into circular, high, and endless lines of offshore ‘glassy” surf.

Nonetheless, even when the surf isn’t breaking here, PB has a particular draw unlike most other San Diego beach towns. The local’s are friendly, there’s always a cool pub, restaurant, or other attraction to go to; and the beach is always a cool place to hang and to catch some rays.

Its picturesque location and beach also hold true for its world famous Pier—routinely photographed, pictured, and traversed by all that pass by.

So the next time you’re visiting San Diego’s Pacific Beach, be sure to remember these 3 important tips:

1. Have Fun
2. There’s always something to do in the area
3. Go for a swim, surf, or dip in the waters here, as its allure will always be something you’ll cherish and remember.

A tiny bit to the south of Windansea Beach, Tourmaline is a favorite for both both seasoned wave riders and the less experienced. Its rolling mellow waves and large beach, make it a favorite for mostly longboarders of all ages.

Although its waves are typically temperate, when a large swell hits the place, it explodes into a surfrers paradise. Indeed, that’s when the northern tip of Tourmaline creates waves that only the most seasoned surfers are able to navigate.

Surrounded by 75 foot cliffs which create its natural break, Tourmaline Beach, in 1963, became the first surfing park in the USA–which means that lifeguards don’t use blackball flags to reserve any area for swimmers because at Tourmaline Canyon Surf Beach, surfers are able to use the entire beach, year-round.

With a small, dedicated group of locals looking out for it, Tourmaline Beach has seen several improvements over recent years.

First, the mural on the public bathroom was revitalized, after that, a memorial bench honoring Skeeter Malcolm, a legendary local waterman who surfed throughout his life until his death in 1993, at age 70; and most recently, the installation of the “monument honors the past and present surfers at Tourmaline Canyon Surfing Park who have embraced its beach, surf and camaraderie.”

Raising money by selling dedication bricks, the Tourmaline Tailgaters Surfing Association mission is:

committed to the betterment of Tourmaline Canyon Surf Park and to the people who surf there. To that end, we have banded together to provide assistance in maintaining the park, offer help to member of the Tourmaline community who are in need and contribute to the social interaction between club members and the extended tribe of Tourmaline surfers

To that end, they have also helped raise funds for several people who are faced with immediate and severe medical problems. Considering they’ve never been “formalized,” yet, the Tailgaters are doing great work.

Lastly, we’ll leave you with this tag line from Tourmaline Beach’s monument,

Surf Well, Spread Aloha, Share Waves Without Judgment

Originally constructed in 1946 by Woody Ekstrom, Fred Kenyon and Don Okey, this palm covered shack aka "The Surf Shack at Windansea Beach" was designated as a historical landmark by the San Diego Historical Resources Board (PDF) on May 27, 1998.

Extending north of Palomar Avenue and south of Westbourne Street, Windansea Beach is a surfer’s paradise with winter waves as high as six to eight feet, if not frequently larger. Indeed, this Point Break, is one of the few beaches in the world where the waves resemble the larger Hawaiian North Shore surf.

To just walk the beach, hearing its waves crashing and feeling the cool ocean breeze makes for a fabulous day.

Within the vicinity of Windansea Beach there are various sections of reefs including Middles, Turtles, and Simmons, named after Bob Simmons (who died at the northern break in 1954), and Big Rock.

Windansea’s Beach contribution to the development of modern surfing as we know it, is stranger than fiction:

It’s where Bob Simmons, who tragically died at the northern reef named after him posthumously, was the first person to develop resin and polyurethane in lieu of the extremely heavy balsa wood surfboards, changed the nature of surfboards forever.

It was home to the notorious Butch Van Artsdalen (January 31, 1941 – July 18, 1979), a legendary surfer, a pioneer of surfing 25-foot waves at such North Shore locations as Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach; and tube riding in Hawaii during the early 1960-1970s. He was a member of the Duke Kahanamoku Surf Team.

But, beyond all these accomplishments, he was the first surfer to ride Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu, thought unsurfable. The challenging waves of Oahu’s North Shore soon became Van Artsdalen’s home. He was among the first to master the powerful, hollow waves at Ehukai Beach known as the Banzai Pipeline. This, along with his reputation for riding switchfoot in the large surf at Waimea Bay, earned him the nickname “Mr. Pipeline.”

The Pump House Gang” a book by author, Tom Wolfe, chronicled the wild anti-establishment surfers, and its legendary surfers along with their wild antics.

Windansea served as home break to Pat Curren, Mike Diffenderfer, Chris O’Rourke, Joey Cabell, Mickey Munoz and Butch Van Artsdalen. Steve Pezman, former publisher of Surfer magazine and current publisher of The Surfer’s Journal, called Windansea locals in the early 1960s–”the heaviest surf crew ever.”

The Windansea Surf Club was founded by Chuck Hasley in 1962, and included members such as The Endless Summer star and first Vice President Mike Hynson, Skip Frye, Joey Cabell, Del Cannon, Mike Purpus and Rusty Miller, Andy Tyler, Tom Ortner, Brew Briggs, Chris O’Rourke, Richard Kenvin, Miko Fleming, Debbie Beacham, Peter King, Saxon Boucher, Karl Engstrom, Randy Lind, “Big Steve” Jones, Ian Rotgans, “Big George” Felactu & Longboard Larry.

Many of these surfers were later to appear in the seminal surf movie of all time, Bruce Brown’s, “The Endless Summer.”

Isn’t it time for a visit?

I decided that before anyone awoke, that it was a perfect time to put on my hiking shoes on and go exploring.

On previous visits to La Jolla, I passed by the entrance to Marian R. Bear Memorial Park, a few times; and because it’s close to where I was staying, the timing this Sunday morning was perfect to get in a little sight-seeing and for a bi of exercise.

Marian R. Bear Memorial Park, is part of San Clemente Canyon, which over 40 million years ago was covered by ocean. How times have changed because now it’s home to a population of resident wildlife including raccoons, skunks, rabbits, amphibians, reptiles, and birds, and serve as a pathway for coyote, fox, and other mammals.

Although I only was able to glimpse a few birds this morning, I’m not alone in knowing and appreciating my love of this place.

Along the length of the canyon are oak, sycamores, and willow trees alongside with their ever attendant undergrowth of native and other plant species. The canyon has an intermingling of native plant communities, some of whose range is restricted to Southern California and Northern Baja California.

The hillsides contain coastal sage scrub and chaparral, two plant communities characterized by their adaptation to survive prolonged drought and periodic brush fires.

Named after Marian Bear, an active San Diego community leader and environmentalist, who worked to preserve the canyons in their natural state, the Park consists of 467 acres. Indeed, she was the driving force behind realigning the highway from the canyon floor to the north hillsides.

Thank you, Ms. Bear for your efforts. In the name of progress, we often forget just how important saving Nature can be.

From this point, Marian R. Park, will show you her beauty:

San Clemente Canyon Hike

On Sunday, September 26^th, the show filled the Horton Event Space with Indie clothing lines, trendy music, luscious mixed drinks, stunning artwork installations, beautiful jewelry, and multiple runway shows featuring both Men’s and Women’s fashion.

Thread Show decked out Horton Event Space in luxe décor and hot brand names including 949®, Diesel®, Bumble and Bumble®, Smirnoff®, Hpnotiq®, and Red Bull®.

The event drew hip, young crowds–rocking a plethora of different styles.

Creativity and artistry maintained a strong theme throughout the event. The clothes, jewelry, and décor exhibited an impressive array of some current perspectives in fashion.

Designers and attendees alike each displayed his or her own unique stylistic stance.

The Thread Show in San Diego was a vibrant melting pot of differing fashion opinions affecting surprise and excitement for all the guests. Excited shoppers filled their bags with exquisite one-of-a-kind items.

Guests could sign up for complimentary hairstyling at the Style Lounge, featuring Bumble and Bumble® brand hair products. Specialists from the Diesel® Salon of San Diego cheerfully worked their clients’ hair into artistic designs, originating from the stylist’s own imagination.

The creative hair styles ranged from sophisticated glam to Avant-Garde.

There were many freebies offered up at the event including free mixed drinks from Hpnotiq®, Pop Chips®, and drink tastings from Smirnoff®.

I was fascinated with how the designers’ arranged their breathtaking wares. Each display was as eye-catching and creative as the merchandise therein.

The designers came prepared with steep discounts to celebrate the event. I bought two beautiful necklaces at a tremendous discount.

The runway shows were the highlight of this event. The lines featured included Women’s sportswear, bathing suits, and evening wear, as well as Men’s casual and sophisticated attire.

Models strutted down the runway to the DJ’s superbly mixed pop music. The designs were fresh and inspiring.

The Thread Show, San Diego was a trendy fashion frenzy full of excitement and intrigue.

I had an absolute blast and plan to attend the show when it visits Los Angeles in early December. I recommend it to everybody else that’s into fashion!

Sarah is the author of brokeintheOC.

It also served to mark the establishment of the sister city relationship between San Diego and Yokohama, which was the first such affiliation on the West Coast.

Standing 6 feet high and weighing in at almost two and one-half tons, the Friendship Bell is rung by being struck with the large wooden ram that’s pictured.

Added to the Friendship Bell Pavilion, The Girl in the Red Shoes, pictured on the bottom left, was presented as a gift to the citizens of San Diego to commemorate the 150^th anniversary of the opening of the Port of Yokohama, Japan.

At the dedication ceremony, on June 27, 2010, the Chairman of the Yokohama-San Diego Friendship Committee, Masayuki Suzuk, said, “It is our hope that the statue will continue to strengthen bonds between our ports, cities and countries.”

Sculpted by artist, Munehiro Komeno, the three foot tall young girl is holding a rose, which represents Yokohama and a carnation–which symbolizes San Diego.

With history, culture, creativity, and symbolism as part of the human experience, public art is everywhere–you just have to look for it.

Located just as you enter Shelter Island, this 15-foot steel sculpture by Fallbrook artist, Alber de Matteis, describes the sculpture as "inspired by the interconnection of the moon, sun and the ocean and where all these forces come into play within the shelter of the bay."

Ocean Song was funded by the Bartell Hotels as the public art component of its $3.5 million renovation project.

The amazing thing about public art and the businesses that are involved is that people are naturally drawn to it, which creates more “traffic” for the business, which in turn creates more business. It’s a circle of success.

"Ocean Song went beyond our expectations," said Richard Bartell, general manager of Bartell Hotels. "The shape and form of the piece is attracting much positive attention. It represents the quintessential Shelter Island experience."

Inscribed on the name plaque is this quote by artist, Alber de Matteis:

This sculpture is inspired by the waves breaking on the shores of the bay. It reflects the play of sunlight throughout the day on the surface of the ocean. It recalls the connection of the moons and the tides. So as the waves on the ocean it also portrays waves of sound. The mass of the sculpture transforms itself from baritone to soprano creating the song that tells the story of the place where we found shelter.