Shells & Swells: La Jolla Adventure Date

One of my favorite days spent in San Diego was when I went snorkeling and kayaking in La Jolla. I used a company called San Diego Bike and Kayak Tours and they did a fabulous job. My trip was about 3 hours long and around 50 bucks a person. It is definitely worth the price. Included in the price, you get an intro to kayak and snorkeling, a tour guide, and all the gear, (life jacket, snorkel, fins, mask, wetsuit if needed, paddle and kayak). And if you are still up to it , you can keep the snorkel gear for a half day after the guided tour part and explore on your own.

On your voyage, you kayak out to the 7 Caves in La Jolla. Once there, you link your kayaks together and have time to snorkel. You get to see beautiful local fish and see seals up close lounging on their rocks. If you go when the timing is right, you can even see some leopard sharks! You do not have to be experienced in snorkeling or kayaking to enjoy this. It was actually my very first time doing either and I felt very competent with the help of the guide and the introduction they give on land before you hit the water. The staff is friendly and really give you an enjoyable experience. I suggest bringing a water resistant or underwater camera to capture some of your memories made on your adventure.

For those of you who don't just want the typical formula for date, (dinner and a movie type deal), than this is the date for you. You are able to experience the beauty of La Jolla on the water, as well as under the water. An active couple or a new couple looking for an activity to break the ice would be perfect for this. This date provides an all day activity and plenty of fun and adventure!

Links

• San Diego Bike and Kayak Tours
• Kayak and Snorkel Tour

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Barkers & Burgers: Ocean Beach Date

There is nothing better than having some of your favorite things combine to make the perfect day, or date, in this case. Dogs, the beach, and great food all work together to form another one of my Go-To Girl Designed Date Nights.

Ocean Beach itself is a spectacular place to visit. I feel like it has a little bit of a different personality than the other popular beaches in San Diego. It doesn't have the party scene like Pacific Beach or the upscale beauty of La Jolla, but it sure has character. Unique shops, such as The Black feature Rastafarian knick-knacks, candles and incense, clothes, posters and unique books. The streets are usually filled with locals or visitors from the hostel nearby. The beaches are nice as most San Diego beaches are. But the one that we are going to visit today is Dog Beach.

Dog Beach is one of my favorite places because it just so happens--dogs and the beach rate pretty high on my favorite things. This beach not only has the beauty of San Diego and the character of Ocean Beach, but also the sight of miles of dogs frolicking to and from the ocean with their owners. The reason I think Dog Beach would be a perfect place for a date, (whether you have a pooch of your own or not,) is because it is a such a great sight to see. Being a dog-lover, there is nothing better than watching so many dogs playing and enjoying the sun just like their owners. Families and their dogs roam the beach, playing ball and exploring the water. Dog Beach provides a comfortable setting and plenty of things to talk about. (see below for directions)

After you fill your dog quota, it is time for dinner. Get ready for the best burger of your life. Hodad's. I guarantee that there will be a line outside. Once you finally get inside, take your big yellow menus and seat yourself where you can. License plates fill up the walls and loud music is always on. The servers are to the point and when they are busy (which they usually are) don't expect any special treatment. Hodad's has the best and biggest burgers, amazing onion rings, and delicious vanilla shakes. I am not one to order a burger at a restaurant but Hodad's is simply amazing.

Dog Beach and Hodad's is perfect for a comfortable and casual date. Both places are unique and fun settings that you or your date will not be disappointed with.

Directions to Dog Beach:

8 West to the end. Turn left and follow the signs for Sunset Cliffs. Turn right at W Point Loma Blvd. and follow it as it curves around until you can turn right at the second stop sign into the beach parking lot

Directions to Hodad's from the Dog Beach parking lot:

Head southeast on Brighton Ave toward Abbott St. Turn right at Abbott St. Continue on Newport Ave.

Links

• Hodads http://www.hodadies.com/

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Fish & Cliffs: La Jolla Date Night

I am so excited to launch my new blog series-- Go-To Girl Designed Date Nights! Please give me feedback and let me know what you would like to see or what your perfect San Diego date is. I hope this helps you find new things to do in San Diego with that special someone so you can start creating your San Diego experience.

So for my first post, I wanted to do something that is one of my favorite things to do in San Diego. La Jolla is one of the most beautiful parts of SD. My sister lived here during her college years and we did quite a bit of exploring. Every nook and cranny of La Jolla is gorgeous. The coastline is remarkable and the streets are filled with upscale boutiques, restaurants, and hotels. There are coves to explore while snorkeling and endless miles of water to kayak on. The soundtrack of seals plays on repeat as you are walking along La Jolla Cove with the view of tourists and locals alike playing Frisbee and flying kites on the grass. A perfect place to spend a San Diego day.

There are 2 spots in particular I need to point out that in combination make the perfect date. The first stop in El Pescador Fish Market (open until 8pm). This little spot nestled on Pearl St. (Show map of 627 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA) offers the best and freshest fish and a variety of ways to eat it. Fresh fish to be cooked at home can be bought here and they also have an extensive, and delicious, menu. There is only a small parking lot in front of it so try parking on the next street over if needed. When you walk in, you are greeted by a wide display case of fresh fish and several wooden tables. If you go at a peak time like lunch, don't expect to get a table right away! The staff here is extremely friendly and laid back.

My personal favorite is the Lemon-Butter Swordfish sandwich. It is served on sourdough with lettuce, tomato, green onion, and if your request it, avocado. This sandwich full of fresh and natural ingredients to make the perfect combo of yumminess. You get a large portion of fresh fish on your sandwich which will leave you more than satisfied. My dad always gets the catch of the day and has yet to be disappointed. If you like fish, I promise you will be in heaven at El Pescador Fish Market.

Your next stop is this secluded spot where you can see all of La Jolla's coastline and if you are lucky, a few hang-gliders. A perfect spot for a romantic sunset. After you climb under the gate, you will led to a dirt path that will originally look less than spectacular. But I promise if you keep going you will not be disappointed. Soon you will see the ocean and have your breath taken away. This is my favorite view of the ocean. There are some benches made of tree stumps to sit on, but bring a blanket if you want to cuddle :) Usually there are not very many people so you can enjoy your thoroughly enjoy your date and take in all the beauty. Feel free to explore the area around there because there are many little trails and wildlife.

With the combination of El Pescador Fish Market and the amazing cliffs, I promise you and your date will have unforgettable experience.

Directions to the cliff from El Pescador:

Head east Pearl St. toward Draper Ave. Turn left at Girard Ave. Turn right on Torrey Pines. Turn left to stay on Torrey Pines. Turn left on La Jolla Shores Dr. Right on La Jolla Farms Rd. Park in the residential area but be aware of street signs to make sure you can park there legally. It is the first turn in on your left. You will see a dirt path and a gate.

Links

• El Pescador website http://www.elpescadorfishmarket.com/home.htm

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