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A Guide to the Best Golf Courses in San Diego

 

If you’re looking for the perfect golfing destination, San Diego is an ideal choice. With its great year-round climate and stunning coastline views, San Diego is home to some of the finest golf courses in the country. From championship-level links to hidden gems tucked away in San Diego’s backcountry, San Diego has a course for every type of golfer. Come explore San Diego’s amazing offerings and discover the best golf courses in San Diego!

 

Read on to discover the best San Diego golf courses and find out which one is right for you.

Torrey Pines Golf Course

This world-famous golf course is a must-play for any serious golfer. The views are stunning and the course is challenging, making it one of the most popular in San Diego. It’s located along the San Diego coastline and is about a ten-minute drive from downtown San Diego. Torrey Pines has two championship golf courses, the North and South Course, for more advanced golfers. The South Course is considered to be one of the best public golf courses in California and has hosted several U.S. Opens. Our vacation rentals in San Diego offer you the comfort you need and will allow you the space for your gear, which helps to create a more enjoyable experience.

Maderas Golf Club

Maderas is a semi-private golf course that is ideal for the more experienced golfer. It is a more challenging golf course, but that may suit you well. You can also explore other parts of the city when you stay in one of our vacation rentals in Mission Hills, which are located south of this incredible golf course.

Coronado Municipal Golf Course

If you’re looking for a more affordable option, Coronado Municipal is a great choice with challenging holes and beautiful coastal views. It’s located near the San Diego bay with easy access from downtown San Diego. It is a short distance from several vacation rentals in Mission Hills, which means that you can easily make a day trip to this course and at the same time experience multiple different parts of San Diego.

 

Luxury Lodging in San Diego

If you are planning on visiting these incredible golf courses, having a comfortable place to stay is essential. Not only will you be more comfortable after a long day at the golf course, but you will also have space for all of your gear, which will make your whole experience more enjoyable. Be sure to check our availability and make your reservation now!

 

 

Visiting San Diego: A Guide to Balboa Park

 

If you are visiting San Diego, Balboa Park is a fantastic place to spend a few days. Balboa Park is a sprawling 1,200-acre green space located in the heart of the city. This unique urban park is home to numerous museums, gardens, trails and other outdoor activities. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Balboa park during your trip to San Diego. The best part – it’s just minutes away from our vacation rentals

Visit the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is home to more than 3,700 animals of over 650 species. With multiple exhibits and unique experiences like their Wild Animal Encounter, you can spend an entire day at the zoo exploring. Be sure to take a tour of the many gardens throughout the park or take a relaxing ride on the Skyfari Aerial Tram. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the San Diego Zoo! And at the end of the day, you can enjoy a relaxing evening at one of our San Diego vacation rentals.

Explore the California Tower

No trip to Balboa Park is complete without a visit to the California Tower. This impressive structure rises 210 feet high and has been designated as a National Historic Landmark since 1935. Visitors can take an elevator ride straight up the tower for breathtaking views of the city, the harbor, and beyond! The tower also houses a variety of exhibits that change periodically, so there’s always something new to discover.

Stroll through the Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Building and its Lily Pond are some of the most beautiful sights to behold in Balboa Park. Wander among 2,000 varieties of flowers and plants, including rare orchids and bromeliads. The area also features a seasonal butterfly garden that blooms with vibrant colors. Be sure to stay and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere

Ride a carousel or train ride

Take a spin on one of the carousels located in Balboa Park. These antique rides have been delighting visitors since 1922. Hop aboard the miniature train and take a journey around the park’s five-and-a-half mile double track loop, complete with tunnels, trestles, and plenty of sights to see.

Check out the museums, including the Museum of Man and Air and Space Museum

The Museum of Man is a must-see when visiting Balboa Park. Learn about ancient and modern cultures from around the world, or explore their extensive collection of artifacts and artworks. The San Diego Air and Space Museum houses an impressive array of aircrafts and spacecrafts, providing a fantastic look into the history of flight. After a long day on your feet, you’ll want to have some place to stay that’s close by. Our vacation rentals in Mission Hills are just a few miles from these incredible museums, so it makes it easy to get to and from these destinations.

Luxury Vacation Rentals in San Diego

If you’re traveling to San Diego, Balboa Park is a must-see. At the end of the day, you’ll want a comfortable place to stay that isn’t far from many of these attractions. Be sure to check our availability and make your reservation now!

 

With dozens of dynamic neighborhoods throughout San Diego, figuring out where to stay can be challenging. We have already put together a Neighborhood Guide for First-Time Visitors, and today, we will focus on Mission Hills. Known as one of San Diego’s finest neighborhoods, Mission Hills features architectural diversity, thriving commercial districts, and unforgettable character. Stay with Rental With A View in our Mission Hills vacation rentals, and you will be minutes away from everything America’s Finest City has to offer!

Things to Do in Mission Hills San Diego

Even though Mission Hills is primarily a residential neighborhood, there are restaurants, bars, and shops to explore near your vacation rental:

Dining in Mission Hills

Most restaurants are located along Washington Street, with everything from coffee shops to pizzerias and nightclubs. 

Mission Hills Shopping

Find the perfect souvenir for your San Diego getaway at a boutique or art gallery in Mission Hills. 

Other Things to Do in Mission Hills

Stay in Mission Hills Vacation Rentals

Staying in Mission Hills also offers convenient access to top attractions like Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Old Town, and the Gaslamp Quarter. Most of our Rental With A View vacation rentals are located in Mission Hills on peaceful streets, just five minutes from the heart of downtown. From our three-bedroom Luxury Bay View Retreat to the five-bedroom Hilltop Hacienda, our Mission Hills vacation rentals are the perfect place to host your group!

Today we will compare the San Diego Zoo vs. the Safari Park, so you can help narrow down which zoo is right for you! Both world-class zoos offer something for everyone, with an impressive array of animals and experiences for every traveler. Rental With A View is here to help you plan the perfect San Diego vacation with our properties throughout Little Italy, Mission Hills, and Banker’s Hill. Read on to discover which zoo you should put on your vacation itinerary today!

San Diego Zoo VS. Safari Park: What’s the Difference?

Both destinations offer a great addition to your getaway; here are a few of the significant differences between the San Diego Zoo VS the Safari Park:

What’s Included at San Diego Zoo?

See more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals at the San Diego Zoo. Discover all the wildlife you can see during your visit, including koalas, polar bears, apes, elephants, tigers, giraffes, and much more! Here are the other activities available with your general admission ticket:

Add-On Experiences

If you want to learn more about particular wildlife at the zoo, you can add a special experience to your trip, like the Crazy About Cats experience, to get an up-close look at the zoo’s most iconic cats!

What’s Included at the Safari Park?

The Safari Park is home to 3,600 animals in expansive savanna habitats. Famous wildlife includes rhinos, camels, elephants, giraffes, lions, kangaroos, fruit bats, and tigers. Here are other activities included with your ticket: 

Safaris

If you are interested in up close and personal adventures, we recommend purchasing one of their safaris for an additional fee. These experiences include knowledgeable guides who will share stories of plants and animals in the park. 

San Diego Vacation Rentals with a View

Now that you have more information about the San Diego Zoo VS the Safari Park, you may wonder where to stay during your visit. Rental With A View have you covered with our stress-free guarantee when booking with us! Browse our luxury vacation rentals in San Diego and plan your escape to America’s Finest City today!

California is chocked full of romantic destinations, and San Diego, America’s Finest City, is no exception! But, with so many attractions and activities available at your fingertips, figuring out what to do first is the biggest challenge. That’s why Rental With a View is here to narrow down your options with date ideas in San Diego for every type of couple, from outdoor adventurers to foodies. Whether you want to set sail during a romantic dinner cruise, witness Broadway performances together, or enjoy all the free things to do in the city, there is something for everyone!

 

1. Embark on a Sunset or Dinner Cruise

San Diego is known for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in the country, offering a romantic backdrop for your date night. Flagship Cruises provides a wealth of dining cruises around San Diego Bay, including champagne brunches and sunset cocktail cruises. If you want a more intimate experience, sign up for a private sunset cruise with Sail San Diego

 

2. Attend a Live Performance

San Diego offers an astounding arts, culture, and music scene. Plan in advance to experience a Broadway production at Civic Theatre or Balboa Theatre. If music is more your style, check out a classical performance at San Diego Symphony or Music Box if you want to listen to big names in an intimate venue.

 

3. Free Date Ideas in San Diego

If you are traveling to San Diego on a budget, no worries; plenty of free activities are available for couples. Spend an afternoon strolling along our beautiful beaches, hike to Sunset Cliffs to witness a picturesque sunset, have a picnic at Balboa Park, or wander the streets of our diverse neighborhoods.

 

4. Go on a Gastronomic Tour

San Diego has an incredibly diverse dining scene, with endless restaurants offering mouthwatering cuisine in a romantic atmosphere. Some of the best romantic dining spots include Valentina Restaurant, Addison, The Marine Room, and Mister A’s.

 

5. See San Diego from a New Perspective

Join one of the many San Diego tours and witness the city from a new perspective. SEAL Tours offers the best way to see the city from the land and sea while experiencing history and ecology. Indulge in a romantic Gondola Cruise through Coronado Cays or magical hot air balloon rides with California Dreamin’.

 

San Diego Romantic Vacation Rentals for Couples

These are just a few date ideas in San Diego for your romantic getaway. Relax at the end of the day in your Rental With a View vacation rental. Our Modern Studio rental is perfect for couples on a budget, just five minutes from downtown’s best attractions. We recommend our Urban Oasis property if you want more space to spread out. Discover the perfect San Diego vacation rental for your getaway today!

Nothing excites outdoor enthusiasts more than waterfalls, and San Diego is a host of some of the most unique and intimate waterfalls in the state. These natural attractions are set amongst diverse landscapes throughout the region, from lush forests to rocky cliffs. While exploring San Diego, you can rely on Rental With a View to help you with any property you need for your vacation, from private villas to one-bedroom quaint homes. There are dozens of waterfall hikes in San Diego , here are three of our favorites:

3 Waterfall Hikes in San Diego

 

1. Cedar Creek Waterfall

Dubbed “San Diego’s Most Famous Waterfall Hike,” it’s no surprise that Cedar Creek Waterfalls is first on our list. The creek cascades 80 feet over a cliff into the glittering waters below to create a tiny pool of water called “Devil’s Punchbowl.”

The trailhead for Cedar Creek is located about 45 minutes from downtown San Diego, just east of Ramona. The trek is about 5 miles long and is best taken anytime outside June and October due to the scorching heat. Remember to bring water along on the hike as there is little tree cover. Hikers also need a permit, which costs $6 per group of five persons. 

 

2. Oak Canyon Falls

Oak Canyon is a seasonal waterfall in Mission Trails Regional Park, just 20 minutes driving time from San Diego. The hike is about 1.6 miles long with an elevation gain of 300 feet. The trail is one of the most tranquil in this park which is home to vegetation and mountains. 

To visit and see the cascades, the water gushing from the stream falls, the best time to visit is between November and May as they are usually dry in the summer. To avoid crowds, you should visit early in the morning.

 

3. Three Sisters Falls

Whether you’re looking for a waterfall or just in San Diego for a good time, Three Sisters Falls is a must-visit. It’s best to go early to avoid the crowd. 

The falls are located about an hour’s drive from the city and are best visited after a heavy rainy season. The trail is about 2 miles to reach the waterfall with an elevation gain of 1047 feet. For an enjoyable time, take lots of water and good clinging shoes as hiking may take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours. You can also swim at the Three Sisters.

Luxury Lodging near Outdoor Adventures in San Diego

If you want a memorable waterfall hike in San Diego, you should start from here. While you have fun in and around San Diego, you can trust Rental with a View to supply you with the perfect home away from home. We have different vacation rentals and special offers for new and existing customers. Please check availability and make your reservations now.

With more than 100 colorful and unique neighborhoods, the most challenging part of your San Diego getaway is deciding where to explore first. We have put together a helpful San Diego Neighborhood Guide for First-Time Visitors to get you started, and today we will be focusing on one of the most lively neighborhoods on the list, Little Italy. This Italian neighborhood is best known for its food and drink scene, but there are endless things to do in Little Italy, San Diego. Whether you want to eat, drink, shop, or explore museums, Rental With A View offers vacation rentals just minutes from everything Little Italy has to offer!

Restaurants in Little Italy San Diego

Little Italy is a culinary hot spot in San Diego, offering award-winning chefs and eateries around every corner. 

Piazza della Famiglia

The Piazza della Famiglia serves as the central gathering point in Little Italy. Visit the Little Italy Food Hall for an introduction to the diverse dining scene. Try a dish from one of the six food stations, serving anything from pizza to gelato! 

Award-Winning Restaurants in Little Italy

There are endless Little Italy restaurants to try during your getaway. If you are looking for a classic rustic Italian dining setting, we recommend Davanti Enoteca, Filippi’sFilippi’s Pizza Grotto, or Buon Appetito. We recommend Mona Lisa Italian Foods for delicious deli sandwiches if you are after something to take back to enjoy in your vacation rental.

Little Italy Shops & Markets

The Little Italy Mercato Farmers’Farmers’ Market is a celebrated tradition occurring every Wednesday and Saturday year-round. This is the largest market in San Diego County, featuring six blocks of vendors. The marketplace vendors sell produce, flowers, eggs, meat, fish, baked goods, groceries, and handcrafted gifts.

Bring home a piece of Little Italy with unique artwork from one of the local galleries. Browse the one-of-a-kind artwork at Mee Shim Fine Art, 1805 Gallery, and Adelman Fine Art.

Little Italy Museums & Parks

If you are interested in more things to do in Little Italy, we recommend visiting the local parks and museums: 

San Diego Vacation Rentals in Mission Hills

Stay with us at Rental With A View and easily access the best things to do in Little Italy, San Diego. Our San Diego vacation rentals in Mission Hills put you just a few miles from the Little Italy neighborhood. Enjoy the privacy of a quiet neighborhood while still being close to major attractions and our beautiful beaches. We look forward to hosting you for your San Diego getaway!

At Rental With A View, we are proud to operate a luxury portfolio of San Diego vacation rentals in the best locations in town. Never lose sight of the city lights by dining at our favorite San Diego restaurants with a view during your getaway. With our endless California sunshine, dining al fresco is a year-round experience. Whether you are looking for fine dining spots or a casual atmosphere for drinks, there is a rooftop restaurant in San Diego for everyone!

Rustic Root

Rustic Root is located in the Gaslamp Quarter overlooking vibrant and bustling Fifth Avenue. Their menu showcases American comfort food with a California twist that you can enjoy under the stars. Make sure to order one of their signature cocktails to sip on as you enjoy the views of the city below.

Cannonball

Cannonball features the largest oceanfront rooftop restaurant in San Diego! The rooftop will transport you to a pool-like setting overlooking the beautiful waters of Mission Beach. Join them every Tuesday and Thursday for live music on the rooftop and choose from their menu of innovative sushis.

Kettner Exchange

Kettner Exchange offers one of the best San Diego restaurants with a view overlooking Little Italy. The restaurant features two levels of indoor-outdoor dining with a menu of innovative dishes. They even provide rooftop cabana rentals overlooking Little Italy’s streets and exclusive access to craft cocktails and unique menu creations.

Mister A’s

If you are looking for fine dining with 180-degree views, then Mister A’s is a must-visit. Their menu is inspired by American, French, and Mediterranean influences. The outdoor deck offers upscale lounge seating and an expansive bar and cocktail menu. 

The Nolen

The Nolen is a rooftop bar and lounge offering spectacular views of downtown San Diego. Take in the sights of San Diego Bay, Petco Park, and Coronado Bridge. Join them for craft cocktails, bar bites, and unforgettable views. You can get to The Nolen from the “secret” elevator entrance at the Courtyard Gaslamp.

Kairoa Brewing Co.

Kairoa Brewing Co. brings the unique flavors of New Zealand to San Diego. The menu features American favorites with New Zealand comfort foods like sausage rolls and salmon sashimi. The rooftop patio overlooks University Heights and is designed with a modern farmhouse appeal.

Rental With A View Vacation Rentals

Enjoy exceptional views of America’s Finest City at our San Diego restaurants with a view. Choose one of our Rental With A View vacation rentals to host your getaway and continue enjoying the city’s picturesque sights. Stay in our Hilltop Hacienda with panoramic views of Mission Hills, or experience 180-degree views of the San Diego Bay with our Bay View Home

With a nickname like “one of America’s most creative cities,” it should be no surprise that San Diego is home to some of the best museums in the country. But, with more than 90 museums throughout the city, narrowing down the list of places to visit can be quite challenging. Luckily, we have museums to pique everyone’s interest, whether you are interested in fine art, natural history, science, wildlife, or local culture. Witness a historic aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum or visit America’s most haunted house in historic Old Town.

Regardless of your interests, Rental With a View puts you in the heart of the action with our collection of luxury vacation rentals. Read on to discover the best museums in San Diego that highlight the wonders of history, science, and art.

San Diego History Museums

San Diego is often regarded as the birthplace of California, offering a rich and storied history. Immerse yourself in fascinating history and tales of our haunted past at these museums:

USS Midway Museum: This is the most visited museum in San Diego, welcoming over one million visitors annually. Explore over 10 acres of exhibits, including over 30 historic aircraft.

Museum of US: This Balboa Park museum highlights an interactive timeline of human history that connects us across cultures. The museum also offers tours of California Tower, a historical landmark offering 360 views of the city. 

Whaley House Museum: Head to Old Town San Diego and visit America’s most haunted house!

Science Museums in San Diego

San Diego is a city that reaches for the stars, offering several immersive museums that highlight our leaps in the science world. Unlock the wonders of science and innovation at the best museums in San Diego for curious minds:

San Diego Air and Space Museum: The Air & Space Museum highlights the history of flight and space travel with rare artifacts and exhibits.

Fleet Science Center: Discover the wonders of science and innovation with more than 100 interactive exhibits. 

The New Children’s Museum: If you visit San Diego with kids, this museum is a must-visit. The exhibits use contemporary art to empower children to think, play, and create.

Discover Art in America’s Most Creative City

San Diego is the type of city where creativity and art thrive around every corner. Discover our impressive collection of art museums during your California getaway:

San Diego Museum of Art: Visit San Diego’s largest art museum located in the heart of Balboa Park. They have more than 20,000 works of art, including an impressive collection of Spanish, Italian, and South Asian paintings. 

Mingei International Museum: Witness more than 20,000 folk art pieces from over 140 countries at this art museum. 

Museum of Photographic Arts: This is only one of three museums in the country that is solely dedicated to photography. There are more than 9,000 images in the permanent collection from over 800 photographers. 

San Diego Vacation Rentals with a View

Easily access the best museums in San Diego when you choose Rental With a View to host your California getaway. We are a leading boutique vacation rental company operating a portfolio of luxurious properties in the best locations in town. Browse our luxury San Diego vacation rentals for groups, and plan your vacation today!

When planning a family vacation, the biggest challenge is finding a destination that works for everyone in your group. Luckily, San Diego offers one of the best vacations for families in the country, offering a wealth of kid-friendly attractions. Whether you want to learn something new at a museum, spend time at the beach, see exotic animals, or explore the great outdoors, there is something for everyone in America’s finest city. Your San Diego family vacation is made easy when you choose Rental With a View to host your getaway. We offer luxury properties in the heart of the city, so your family can easily access the top attractions in San Diego!

1. San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the country. This wildlife park spans over 100 acres and is home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Purchase your tickets for the Safari Park at the same time and get up close and personal with animals like giraffes and rhinos.

2. Balboa Park

Balboa Park is the culture, nature, and science hub of San Diego. There are sixteen museums to visit here, including the kid-friendly Museum of Us, the Air & Space Museum, and the Fleet Science Center. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful gardens, ride the miniature train, and stop at one of the many local restaurants.

If you are interested in visiting a museum specifically catered to kids and learning, stop at the New Children’s Museum, just over a mile from Balboa Park!

3. Belmont Park

Belmont Park offers a historic beachfront amusement park, perfect for your San Diego family vacation! Start the day with some exhilarating rides before checking out exciting attractions like laser tag, mini golf, rock walls, and go-karts.

You can also find one of the best amusement parks just a 40-minute drive from San Diego in Carlsbad. Legoland California offers over 60 rides, a fun waterpark, and an interactive aquarium.

4. Mission Bay Park

Take your family to the largest aquatic park in the country that offers 4,500 acres of fun on water and land. Popular water activities include surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also 14 miles of trails around Mission Bay, where you can take a leisurely hike or bike together.

5. Hiking Trails

If you are a family who loves the great outdoors, there are plenty of kid-friendly trails to explore during your getaway. Mission Trails Regional Park offers 40 miles of trails, and Torey Pines State Natural Reserve offers eight miles of trails that wind through rugged cliffs, rare pine trees, and salt marshes.

Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals in San Diego

These are just a few top things to do during your San Diego family vacation. Rental With a View is an excellent choice for your family with our spacious vacation rentals and special offers. When you stay four nights with Rental With a View, you will receive a $50 gift card to use at the San Diego Zoo, Seaworld, or Legoland! We recommend our Urban Oasis property for smaller families and our spacious four-bedroom Casa Paradiso for large families. Whichever rental you choose, we look forward to hosting your family for a memorable vacation!