Information - San Diego
There are lots of good reasons why San Diego boasts the title of "America's Finest City" (one of which is that it didn't bother to take a poll of "finest cities" -- it just declared itself the finest)!
Here are a few features of this fine city that you may want to take advantage of during your visit; they're listed roughly in order of proximity to the church, but we've put stars by some of Kristen's personal favorites!
Closest beach to the church; the quintessential California beach! Very family-friendly, and good for beginning surfers, boogie boarders, and ocean kayakers. A big open grassy park area makes this beach a must-visit!
Best aquarium of its size in the country. Fantastic for kids and ocean lovers of all ages :-)
If you're into golf, this course consistently gets ranked among the best in the world. (It's also pretty to look at even if you're not into golf.)
**Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Beach
Prepare to be wowed -- this breathtaking slice of nature has some of the best beach hiking on the West Coast! It's also home to the endangered Torrey Pine tree, and is perfect for a brisk trail run, a sunny hike, or a contemplative stroll.
Villa La Jolla Drive shopping centers
Closest shopping centers to the church. At these two shopping centers (they straddle Nobel Drive), you'll find tons of restaurants, grocery stores, drug stores, dry cleaners, banks, coffee shops, and other retail stores.
Downtown La Jolla
One word: chichi! This is the seaside playground of wealthy San Diegans, and the stores and restaurants cater accordingly. There is, however, a beautiful park right on the ocean, and one of my favorite cafes as well.
Closest major mall to the church, right across the freeway. All the normal "big mall" stores.
If you're not afraid to venture further away, here are a few more options:
The premier San Diego location for water sports: jetskiing, waterskiing, sailing, windsurfing... you name it! (If you bring your bike, and like to ride fast, Fiesta Island is also pretty fun.)
If you're into that sort of thing :-) Word to the wise, though: it's $65/person.
BEAUTIFUL downtown park, with great museums, gorgeous gardens, and the world famous...
We have a spectacular zoo! $35 (one day)/$40 (two days) is pricey, but it's well worth it (as long as you pack a lunch - beware of expensive zoo food!).