shellyrogersrennOn a budget but looking for something fun to do in San Diego County this weekend? Fortunately, San Diego County has a lot to offer and there are many things to see and do with little or no money at all. With so many inexpensive, wonderful things to experience you won’t want to waste a moment of the blue, sunny skies or phenomenal sunsets. To follow are 10 ideas for you to try out.
Ride the Coronado Ferry
Did you know you can take a leisurely scenic 15 minute ride between San Diego Bay and Coronado Island for just $5 each way? The Coronado Ferry is an inexpensive, yet fun way to make the trip while enjoying the incredible views and impeccable weather. While at the Coronado Ferry Landing you can enjoy browsing among the many quaint shops, perhaps grab a bite at any of the wonderful restaurants or just take some amazing photographs of the city of San Diego from the other side of the water.
Visit La Jolla Cove
Although La Jolla (pronounce la HOY-ya) actually doesn’t mean “the jewel” like it’s pronunciation suggests, there are people…I among them…who would still argue that La Jolla is definitely a jewel. I’m sure you will agree that there are many gems to be found in the local area.
La Jolla Cove is part of The San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park & Ecological Reserve. The Underwater Park encompasses an amazing 6000 acres with rocky reefs, sand flats, submarine canyons and kelp beds. There is also a large amount of wildlife, such as sealions, seals, and numerous fish and bird species.
The Cove sits on the La Jolla coast and is easily accessible by foot. As you travel down the short ramp or stairs just passed the grass park above, you come in view of a small bay with normally calm waters near jutting cliffs and dramatic caves. There, next to the small sanded beach in which sea lions often come to rest is a small cove with tiny sea creatures scurrying amongst the rocks.
La Jolla Cove is a popular spot in which many people love to snorkel, scuba dive and kayak. Although the wildlife is very near, please head the many posted signs and leave them in peace as there are fines up to $11,000 for disturbing them in any way.
Visit a farmer’s market
Farmer’s Markets are an incredible place to visit to buy not only healthy, organic produce grown locally and offered at its peak, delicious baked goods, as well as the freshest seafood and meat products available, but also to support local artisan businesses and their creative, unique, and sometimes unconventional wares.
In addition, not only can you browse for free, but with the fantastic weather in San Diego County you get the added bonus of shopping out of doors.
There are many farmer’s markets throughout San Diego County to visit this weekend. Get out there and enjoy!
Saturdays
Little Italy Mercato 8 am – 2 pm Located on West Date St. between Kettner Blvd. and Union St., San Diego
City Heights Certified Farmers’ Market 9 am – 1 pm on Wightman St. between Fairmount and 43rd St., San Diego
Del Mar Certified Farmers’ Market 1 – 4 pm 1050 on Camino Del Mar (Civic Center), Del Mar
Fallbrook Main Ave Farmers Market 9:30 am – 2 pm Fallbrook on Main Avenue, between Hawthorne & Fig
Pacific Beach Certified Farmers’ Market 8 am – 12 noon 4150 Mission Blvd between Reed & Pacific Beach Blvd., Pacific Beach
Poway Certified Farmers’ Market 8:00 am – 1:00 pm 14134 Midland Rd. cross street Temple, Poway
Rancho Penasquitos YMCA Certified Farmers’ Market 9 am -1 pm 9400 Fairgrove Ln and Salmon River Rd., San Diego
Vista Certified Farmers’ Market 8 am -12 noon County Courthouse 325 S. Melrose Drive, Vista
Sundays:
Hillcrest Certified Farmers’ Market 8 am – 2 pm 3960 Normal Street at Lincoln (Adjacent to the DMV) San Diego
La Jolla Certified Farmers’ Market 9 am -1 pm 7300 Block Of Girard Ave At Genter St La Jolla
Leucadia Certified Farmers Market 10 am – 2 pm Paul Ecke Elementary-185 Union St (cross street Vulcan) Encinitas
North San Diego (Sikes Adobe) Certified Farmers Market 10:30 am-3:30 pm 12655 Sunset Dr., Escondido
Rancho Santa Fe Certified Farmers’ Market 9:30 am – 2 pm 16079 San Dieguito Rd – Del Rayo Village Center, Rancho Santa Fe
Santa Ysabel Certified Farmers Market 10 am – 6 pm 21887 Washington St at Hwy 78 & Hwy 79 Santa Ysabel
Solana Beach Certified Farmers’ Market 12 noon – 4 pm 410 S. Cedros Ave Solana Beach
Explore Coronado Island
Whether you take the scenic drive across the San Diego Bay via the 200 foot tall bridge made of 20,000 tons of steel and 94,000 cubic yards of concrete known as the Coronado Bridge, or travel by private boat or ferry, you will will be delighted at arriving to Coronado Island. Many people are surprised to learn that the beloved island is actually a peninsula connected by the low, sandy isthmus called the Silver Strand.
But, however it is that you’ve arrived, there is little doubt that you will be enchanted by the many quaint stores, restaurants, parks and beaches that the island‘s resort city has to offer. A simply must see is the Hotel Del Coronado, built in 1888, as the hotel’s website states, “Hotel del Coronado is a living legend that continues to inspire“. Known also as The Del, and Hotel Del, the hotel is the second largest wooden structure in the U.S. It has been featured in books and movies, hosted many prestigious people in it’s time and has a room, 3327, that is said to be haunted.
Outside the hotel you find a wonderful beach with velvety smooth sand that glimmers as though it has been mixed with gold. It’s actually the mineral mica, but to us romantics, its mermaid gold. the area is very popular with sunbathers, swimmers, surfers and those who just enjoy a walking along the flat, often starfish laden shores.
Beaches
If California has anything, its beaches are certainly at the top of the list, and San Diego County has 70 miles of beaches to choose from. Dog friendly? Family oriented? Adult beaches? San Diego County has those and so much more. With 31 beaches to choose from, you’d be hard pressed to not find what you are looking for.
There’s beaches that allow dogs off their leashes, and beaches with piers for those who like to fish. Beaches for bird watchers, and nature lovers, and for those who want to enjoy the sun in nothing but their birthday suits.
On just about any day of the year, no matter what the weather, you will will find people surfing, swimming, sunbathing or just overall enjoying the beach…and what could be better…oh…did I mention that you can enjoy it all for free? And what’s more, most beaches are close to bars, restaurants and shopping as well as to shops to rent bikes or scuba gear. Everything you need close at hand.
It is a proven fact that beach life can improve both your physical and mental states. Perhaps it’s the salty air on the warm ocean breeze or the lull of the waves with gliding seagulls calling out from above, but whatever the reason going to the beach helps to relieve the stress of our everyday lives. With all the stress going on these days, who needs a reason better than that?
Experience Old Town
Old Town San Diego is a historic park that lets you step back in time to when the the Spanish settlers first arrived to the California coast. The town has over 35 historic sites and museums, is free to enter and offers free parking. It is also with walking distance of a major transit center.
Offering many artisan and specialty shops, as well as authentic Mexican cuisine, and strolling mariachis, Old Town San Diego is certainly a shop the whole family will enjoy.
Be sure to to visit San Diego’s oldest two story brick-house, the Whaley House. With an affordable $8-$10 entrance fee (and with kids under 5 free) if you are a haunted house buff, it should definitely be on your bucket list. Built in 1857 on a former graveyard, the building is one of the most famous reportedly haunted houses in all of the U.S. There are both day and night-time guided tours.
Explore Seaport Village
Located at 849 West Harbor Drive, just adjacent to the Bay in San Diego, is a vibrant 14 acre outdoor waterfront complex with more than 70 shops and dining areas called Seaport Village. Although you must pay to park, entrance is free and there is nearly always some sort of captivating free entertainment. From story-telling at Geppetto’s, to live music near the hand carved historic carousel, there are new discoveries at every turn for you to enjoy while taking in the salty ocean breeze and delightful sunshine.
Public restrooms and an ample amount of benches are located throughout. Stop by the koi pond to watch the ducks paddle across the water and the eye-catching koi, with their brilliant colorations and patterns, as they glide below the surface in their underwater wonderland.
Visit a National Monument
After reaching the top of the over 800 foot hill to which sits the Mt. Soledad Cross and Veterans Memorial you will understand why Mt. Soledad Natural Park is one of the most visited sites in all of San Diego County. This spot, known primarily for the veteran’s memorial, offers a spectacular 360 degree panoramic view of San Diego.
The Veterans Memorial has been hailed as “A Beacon of Freedom” since its completion in 1954. Who can not be touched by the list of over 3,400 service members who have so bravely defended our country? Open from 7am – 10 pm, it is the perfect location to view the surrounding area from sunrise to sunset. The admission is always free, and it is easily accessible by car or tour bus. The landmark is also known to attract cyclist of every caliber as there are many bicycle routes in the nearby areas.
Stroll amongst Peacocks
There is a hidden gem of a park off of Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad that few but locals have been to. This romantic, secluded ranch called Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is fantastically maintained and is home to about 40 magnificent free-roaming peacocks. Once owned by a former co-star of the 1950’s TV show, “The Cisco Kid“, this 27-acre canyon showcases adobe buildings, a stable, antique windmills and other historic structures.
Currently the property of the City of Carlsbad, the ranch is open from 9am – 5 pm daily. Although the paths are paved you’ll still want to wear sensible shoes as the grounds are quite extensive. Parking and entrance is free and this hidden treasure is most definitely worth seeing.
Visit one of the many harbors
There are many great places to visit, here are just a few:
Oceanside Harbor
Just off the 5, south of Camp Pendleton, there’s a hidden gem of a harbor in Oceanside. Oceanside Harbor is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities that make up what is known as Harbor Village.
Whether your plans include a quiet stroll or bike ride through the harbor to Oceanside’s northern beach, called Harbor Beach; or if you desire a fishing or whale watching excursion, or to make use of one of the many watersport rentals available, you can find it all at Oceanside Harbor.
Oceanside Harbor is the only harbor between Orange County and San Diego. Catch a bite to eat at one of the various restaurants offering both dine in as well as outside service and enjoy the fantastic views of the various boats and yachts docked within this charming New England style landing place.
America’s Cup Harbor
In honor of the 1995 America’s Cup that was held in San Diego, the small cove which was formerly known as Commercial Basin, was renamed to America’s Cup Harbor. Located just minutes San Diego Bay, America’s Cup Harbor is found at the Point Loma Marina.
There are many shops and restaurants to be found on the Promenade at Point Loma Marina and dock and dine reservations are accepted.
Tuna Harbor
Located on San Diego Bay, Tuna Harbor is a lovely dog friendly (leashes required) promenade on the seafront where you can take a stroll, jog, or bike ride while enjoying the wonderful views of various boats in the cool blue water and the fantastic California weather.
You won’t be able to miss the 25 foot high statue of the Kissing Soldier which officially goes by the name of “Unconditional Surrender” and is is locally labelled as “Embracing Peace”. It’s not too far from the Maritime Museum which costs about $20 for adults and $10 for children 2 and up to enter. Senior discounts are available.
While you are visiting Tuna Harbor you may want to buy some of the fresh catch of the day from the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market or snack on some of the delicious food made by local vendors.
Bonus
Ok, I know, I promised you ten things to do this weekend in San Diego County with little or no money but I just cant resist. Here’s an added three that I’m sure you’ll enjoy.
Balboa Park
With so much to see and do in San Diego County, Balboa Park is something you must include on your bucket list. You many know that Balboa Park is home to 15 museums and is next to the San Diego Zoo; but did you know that admittance to the 1,200 acre historic park and it’s beautifully maintained grounds with prolific gardens, play areas, fountains and walking trails is always free, as is parking and the shuttle bus? In addition, there are many no-cost activities to which you can join in and enjoy; such as yoga classes and bike races. There are also free concerts like those performed each Sunday at 2 pm by the Spreckles Organ Society in the Pavilion to relish.
Although most of the park’s museums are pay-to-enter, the Timken Museum of Art, (closed until Fall of 2021) which showcases fine art and offers public program, is absolutely free for you to experience. The Park’s Botanical Building and Lily Ponds which offer a spectacular background to your photos with striking architecture and picturesque gardens and ponds, is also free to enter and explore. There are over 2,100 permanent plants including water lilies, orchids, cycads and palms as well as seasonal flowers that are vibrantly displayed throughout. There is even a scratch-and-sniff display within the Botanical building for those who can’t resist smelling each flower’s delicate perfume.
Butterfly Farms
Visiting the Butterfly Farms, in Encinitas, an inexpensive, fun way to help support a non-profit organization brings awareness to the decline of native California butterflies, such as the Monarch, and other pollinators. As their website states, the research they do includes Tagging, Larvae Monitoring, Observing Western Monarch Migration Patterns and Restoring Sensitive and Endangered Local Butterfly Species.
A $6.00 per person tax-deductible donation is requested although children under 2 are free, military discounts are offered and there is usually a Groupon that offers additional discounts.
The Butterfly Farms has a 3000 square foot vivarium in which you can enter and enjoy the many different species including Painted Ladies, Mourning Cloaks, of course the Monarch as well as many other species. Children of all ages enjoy their spectacular colors and graceful flight. You can even bring a packed lunch and enjoy it on the picnic tables outside of the vivarium.
Visit a Marina
There are several Marina’s in San Diego County to experience while taking in the fantastic San Diego weather, get in some exercise and just
Shelter Island
Shelter Island, originally recorded on land survey maps as a mudbank, is not really an island at all. Once barely visible at low tide, Shelter Island currently sits 7 feet above high tide. Developed in the 50’s, Shelter Island is now home to many quaint shops, restaurants, boutique hotels, a marina known for docking superyachts and a public parks. Beautifully landscaped, Shelter Island contains several art pieces such as the Tunaman’s Memorial and the Friendship Bell.
The Kona Kai Marina located on the tip of Shelter Island is only minutes from spectacular downtown San Diego and is the closest marina in the area to open ocean waters. It is due to the depths of the water near the marina that vessels as long as 250′ can be seen docked in any one of the 500 slips.
Harbor Island
Harbor Island, located in San Diego Bay is a man made peninsula with breath-taking views of the harbor, the city skyline and the Coronado Bridge. Offering ample room for a sun-filled picnic on the grass lawns, bike rides on the paved path around the shore or any number of water sports including paddle board or kayaking, Harbor Island is a place to relax and enjoy the fantastic San Diego weather.
Harbor Island’s West Marina, has 620 slips that allows for vessels from 21′ to 100′ to dock offering a stunning backdrop for your photographic genius to take hold.
Enjoy your weekend
This is just a short list of the amazing and wonderful things you can enjoy in San Diego County on a budget. Do you have a favorite? It’s a beautiful world, get out there and explore it. Remember, Happiness Starts Here.
