Reasons to Visit San Diego
A couple of years ago, my family and I took a quick weekend getaway to San Diego—and it ended up being one of our favorite trips. It was a short escape before my husband and I headed back to school, and we wanted something close, relaxing, and easy to enjoy. San Diego delivered on all fronts.
We stayed at the Intercontinental San Diego, and I can’t recommend it enough. The hotel was modern and welcoming, with floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy beds, and stunning views. One of the highlights of our stay was the view of the USS Midway right from our room—an iconic sight and a fun touch of history to take in during our downtime.
Another great part of our stay was the location. The hotel was just minutes away from Little Italy, one of San Diego’s most charming neighborhoods. Even though we didn’t have a ton of time to explore it fully, just driving through was a treat. With over 70 restaurants, bars, and fine dining spots, it’s a food lover’s dream. If we had more time, I would’ve loved to try more of the local favorites.
While our visit was short, it reminded me just how much San Diego has to offer—great weather, beautiful views, walkable neighborhoods, and an easygoing vibe that makes it perfect for a weekend recharge.
If you're looking for a city that blends beachy relaxation with great food and culture, San Diego should definitely be on your list.
Visiting the Coronado Island Marriott
One of the main reasons we chose San Diego for our trip was to visit Coronado Island. I hadn’t been there since I was a kid, and I was curious to see if it was still as magical as I remembered.
The morning after we arrived, we made the short drive over the iconic Coronado Bridge, which always feels like the perfect way to enter a little slice of paradise. When we got to the island, we spotted ducks, flamingos, and a few other fun creatures roaming near the water—it immediately felt peaceful and picturesque.
Although we didn’t stay at the Coronado Island Marriott, we did stop by to check it out. It’s a stunning property right along the water, with a relaxed resort vibe and beautiful landscaping. One of the most charming details? The flamingos that just casually wander around in front of the hotel.
As much as we would’ve loved to stay there, the price was a bit higher than our hotel across the bay. Still, it’s definitely worth visiting or keeping in mind for a future splurge-worthy trip.
Visiting the Hotel del Coronado
No trip to Coronado Island feels complete without a stop at the Hotel del Coronado—easily the most iconic and historic hotel on the island. Built in 1888, this stunning Victorian-style resort is as grand as it is legendary.
One of the most interesting things about the hotel is its haunted reputation. It's said to be home to a few friendly ghosts, which makes it especially popular around Halloween—so much so that it’s often completely booked that time of year. Spooky or not, the hotel’s atmosphere is unforgettable.
Even if you’re not staying there, the Hotel del is absolutely worth a visit. The wood-paneled lobby gives you a rare glimpse into old-world charm, and the property as a whole feels like stepping back in time. You can wander through the shops, stroll the beachfront, or just take in the architecture and ocean views.
Whether you're into ghost stories, history, or just appreciate beautiful places, this hotel is a must-see when visiting Coronado.
