We go to San Diego every year to visit friends in Carlsbad. When in SD, we have some must-dos:
FOOD
- Eat fish tacos at Rubios. This is a chain, so you'll find it most anywhere. They are really yummy and if you're not into fish, you can get meat tacos, burritos and taquitos as well. Good prices on Tuesdays - fish tacos for $1.25.
- Eat fish sandwiches or fish tacos at El Pescador in La Jolla. Fresh, fresh, fresh. Read the reviews on
www.yelp.com to get an idea of this place.
- Fantastic meals at Love Boat Sushi in San Marcos (and another location in Oceanside that we haven't been to yet). You don't have to have sushi. They have these amazing platter dinners (i.e. sea bass, filet mignon, etc.) for only $13.95.
- Go to Mimi's Cafe, a really good family restaurant. They are all over SoCal - check their website for locations. Also sign up on their website for a coupon for a free breakfast. Also, now thru end of Aug, they have kids eat free with purchase of adult meal.
SHOPPING
- Go to the Carlsbad Premium Outlets (on the I-5, take the
Legoland exit). This is a good one; it even has a Crate & Barrel. I've found excellent deals (including Coach purses) at this place.
- Go to Fashion Valley Mall in Mission Valley. This is one amazing mall - has everything from high-end to mid-end affordable.
BEACHES
- Moonlight Beach in Encinitas: This is a great family beach we go to for boogie boarding and surfing. It has nice washroom facilities. We just bring a picnic lunch and beach gear and spend a day out here.
- Coronado Beach: Lovely beach next to the Hotel Del Coronado. White sand and hunky navy men jogging along the beach (naval base there).

What's not to like???
OTHER TOURISTY THINGS in SD
- Scripps Birch Aquarium
- Old Town
- Balboa Park
- Torrey Pines State Park
- New waterpark at Legoland (haven't done this yet but have heard it's fun)
Hope that helps! We're going back to SD a week from today too. Can't wait!

