San Diego Scenic Drives That Will Make You Swoon

Who remembers going on a scenic Sunday ride as a kid? It could be somewhere local or to a destination just a few hours from home. The anticipation would build as to what would lie around the next bend in the road. And often the journey was just as important as the destination because of all the sights along the way. In San Diego we’re fortunately blessed with beautiful year-round weather in four distinctive climate zones and landscapes–the coast, inland, mountains, and desert. That makes for lots of choices for some fun and fascinating road trips. And the best part is you don’t even need to drive very far to experience the magnificent and picturesque San Diego scenic drives. Whether it’s heading to one of our iconic Southern California beach towns, lush wine valleys, snow-capped mountain peaks, expansive forests, or untamed desert, you’ll love these scenic drives in San Diego County. Just don’t forget your camera as there are many “must-capture” shots you’ll encounter along the way.59-Mile Scenic DriveOne road trip that guarantees spectacular views of everything San Diego has to offer is the very organized 59-mile drive. The entire journey can take several hours, though much of this depends on how many “honey, stop the car moments” you encounter. Or it can be broken up into smaller sections to allow for even more exploration time.Stop by the San Diego Visitor Information Center on 996 North Harbor Drive operated by Old Town Trolley Tours. Pick up your map or other brochures, and you’re off to spend a perfect day taking in some of San Diego’s best sites. Road trippers will be treated to favorite places like Balboa Park, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, Ocean Beach, Mission Bay, and La Jolla just to name a few. On a clear day, you can even catch some splendid distant views of Mexico and its surrounding mountains. And of course, you’ll view the impressive San Diego skyline, and the sparkling azure waters of the Pacific along the way.La Jolla CoveThe looped route is clearly marked by blue and yellow signage reading “scenic drive” and the entire trip with 27 possible stops is all within San Diego city limits. It’s also an ideal way for visitors to get acquainted with the lay of the land and decide which sites they may want to spend more time exploring.Sunrise Highway Scenic BywaySpring, summer, and fall are the ideal times for a leisurely drive up to the Laguna Mountain Recreation area. The 24-mile trip passes through East San Diego and winds up through the Cleveland National Forest bordering the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.  Known for its wide panoramas and picturesque mountain meadows, the drive begins from the intersection of I-8 and County Road S-1 just east of Descanso. After meandering through the beautiful Laguna Mountain area, the drive ends at the junction of Highway 79.Desert View sports some of the most astonishing vistas of the Cleveland National Forest and Anza-Borrego Desert Park (California’s largest state park). So be sure to stop here and admire the landscape and all that Mother Nature has to offer within this scenic region.Best time of the year to come? Well, spring has its magnificent flowers and verdant meadows, autumn sports stunning color changes, and summer is ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Take all three, or take your pick.Pacific Coast HighwaySo many times, when we have family and friends in town, they want to see the “cool beach towns” of San Diego County. We admit, we love them too.The “iconic Highway 1,” also known as the Pacific Coast Highway or Route 101, runs from San Diego north to Mendocino County and up to the treasure troves of the Big Sur Coast and Northern California’s towering redwood forests. But the great part is that we don’t even have to leave San Diego to get some incredible views of our stunning Pacific coastline. As Carly Simon’s 1987 hit single says “it’s the stuff that dreams are made of.”70 miles of Historic Highway 101 in San Diego County feature some really cool SoCal beach towns along with stunning coastal scenery along the drive. If you really want to experience its Victorian homes, surf shops, eclectic boutiques, a 1950s gas station, local cafes and coffee houses, and miles of stunning beaches, plan a day trip (or two), slow it down, and just take it all in.There is no more spectacular site in San Diego County than driving south along PCH 101 from Del Mar to Torrey Pines. The Pacific Ocean vista is literally jaw-dropping. If you’re heading north, you’ll pass the dramatic cliffs of La Jolla, delightful beaches of Del Mar, funky and hip Encinitas, and further north to the lagoons of Carlsbad and the iconic Oceanside pier. We are indeed blessed with an abundance of captivating coastline to enjoy.Oceanside PierShould you choose to take Scenic Highway 1 further, there are stops in Orange County and Los Angeles County you won’t want to miss. There’s the magnificent art colony of Laguna Beach, Santa Monica’s famous beach and pier, and yes, Malibu’s 21 miles of scenic beaches to explore and enjoy. But it all begins in San Diego!Palomar Mountain LoopPalomar Observatory is an astronomical research facility in the Palomar Mountain Range, owned and operated by Caltech and renowned for its Hale telescope. Not only is the observatory one of our nation’s best known for planet watching and stargazing, but the drive there is definitely part of the adventure.The trip begins on Highway 76 in Lake Henshaw, and guaranteed you’ll be making stops to take in the incredible scenery and awe-inspiring vistas. These include lush forested areas and breathtaking landscapes. Thankfully, there are several scenic overlook pullovers. A pit stop at Palomar Mountain State Park allows for hiking opportunities, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and even rainbow trout fishing at Doane Pond near Valley Center.Not accounting for the stops, the entire drive takes about an hour and a half. With crazy curves and hairpin turns, this isn’t a drive for the faint of heart, but it’s fun and it’s fantastic! Historic Julian – San Diego Scenic DrivesIt’s one of our favorite off-the-beaten path San Diego County destinations and getting there is a blast. For those who live closer to I-8, the most scenic route with lots of vista points is taking the 8 for about 40 miles to Sunrise Highway, heading north through the Laguna Mountain Recreation area where it intersects with Highway 79 north, then 6 more miles on to Julian. The drive from San Diego to Julian takes about an hour and 10 minutes.If you live closer to North County, you can drive CA-67 through Poway with its impressively massive rock formations, though small town Ramona, and continue onto a very winding but bucolic CA-78 to Julian, and arrive in about 52 minutes.So, what’s so special about Julian? It’s a pristine mountain town nestled in the beautiful Cayamaca Mountains. The discovery of gold put Julian on the map, but today, its sinfully delectable apple pies keep people returning time and again to this quaint and quirky village. Wine-tasting, cider-tasting, beer-tasting, shopping, and hiking are just some of the fun things to do here, besides eating apple pie, visiting a gold mine, or panning for riches. If you’re truly needing a four-season feel, you’ll get it in Julian. Spring brings the daffodils and tulips, autumn the true sense of fall with its colorful changing leaves and apple picking and apple festival, and winter, well…if you’re really missing it, you can certainly find it here with one of the few spots where you can enjoy snow in San Diego!Highland Valley Wine CountryThere are over 100 wineries in San Diego County, and a majority of these are family-owned and operated. The rural areas of the county are dotted with these rustic and bucolic vineyards. But some of our absolute favorites are located in the impressively picturesque rolling hills of the Highland Valley. In just 30 to 40 minutes from downtown, you’ll find yourself in the heart of this picturesque San Diego wine country. The more remote verdant, agricultural region of North County is so stunning with its zig-zagging roads and hillside vineyards, it feels as if you’ve entered a completely different world (and you have). To us, because we lived in Italy, it reminds us a lot of Tuscany.Take I-15 north to exit 26, Pomerado Road. Go east on Pomerado, and then a left onto Highland Valley Road. From here, you’ll find some of the area’s top recommended wineries. We adore Altipiano, Domaine Artefact, Speckle Rock, and Cordiano. Not just because they make great wine, but the views are absolutely spectacular and a big part of the whole experience! And sunsets here are truly stunning.Altipiano Winery San DiegoMake sure to check websites, as some wineries may require reservations, and you’ll also want to know the dates and times they are open for wine tasting.Author John Steinbeck once said “People don’t take trips. Trips take people.” Let us know where the trip takes you the next time you hop in that car for one of these San Diego scenic drives!San Diego Scenic Drives was written by Noreen Kompanik for San Diego Explorer. San Diego Scenic Drives – Pin for Later:Last Updated on July 29, 2022 by sandiegoexplorerThe post San Diego Scenic Drives That Will Make You Swoon appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

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14 Fantastic Things to Do in Laguna Beach, CA

With seven miles of stunning coastline and 27 beaches and scenic coves, Laguna Beach is one of Southern California’s most beautiful seaside towns. Towering cliffs, ecological preserves, tide pools teeming with sea life, and a vibrant art scene blend together in perfect harmony here. No matter how many times we visit, all the fun things to do in Laguna Beach seem to work their magic on us. This small beach town is enchanting us time and again with its charm and allure.The best part is that this coastal village in Orange County is a less than an hour-and-a-half easy scenic drive from San Diego up the coastal highway, making it the ideal day or weekend road trip. Adding to its appeal, Laguna Beach is ideally situated halfway between San Diego and L.A.But a word of warning. A day trip here is never enough. You’ll want to answer Laguna Beach’s siren call to return and re-experience all that makes this the perfect ‘California dreamin’ destination.Here are some of our absolute favorite things to do and see in this quintessential Southern California beach town that has a reputation as one of the most dog-friendly villages in all of California.Top Rated Laguna Beach ToursLaguna Beach Open Ocean Kayaking Tour with Sea Lion Sightings1.5 Hour Surf Lesson in Laguna BeachBest Bites of Laguna Beach Food TourLaguna Beach Backroads Electric Bike TourEnjoy the Fabulous Beaches of Laguna Beach, CAReferred to as Laguna’s “Window to the Sea,” Main Beach sits right smack in the heart of Laguna’s downtown village. Famous for its iconic Lifeguard Tower, this sandy playground is filled with happy beachgoers who sun, surf, swim, play beach volleyball, and build sandcastles. Thousand Steps Beach is one of Laguna’s largest beaches. The wide stretch of sand sports a large cave at its southern end that can be entered and walked through at low tide. There are enticing rocks to climb on behind the cave, though signs warn visitors to use caution due to its slippery boulders and holes. Though the beach stairs only number 233, the return climb feels more like 1,000 steep steps after the fun is done. Hence the name.Go Surfing in Laguna BeachLaguna Beach has been one of Southern California’s top surfing hotspots for decades. Thalia Street Beach is ideal for the novice who wants to learn to surf.  But even those who are more experienced love this beach. There are gentle waves closer to the shoreline but Thalia offers more challenging curls just a little further out.  Rockpile is ideal for the experienced surfer looking for a true challenge. The area earned its moniker because of the jumble of rocks that jut out offshore, creating a myriad of tide pools and a world-class break known for its great barrels.Brooks Street is a beach popular with seasoned and confident surfers. The left-breaking waves are some of the biggest in Laguna Beach with surf reaching 10 feet on a really good surf day. When it does, you’ll hear the surfers in town talking about it.Book a 1.5-hour surfing lesson here>> or, if you are a group, check out this group deal here. Explore Downtown Laguna BeachLaguna is an easily walkable hip town with a super cool beachy vibe. You will find charming boutiques, amazing restaurants, impressive art galleries, classy clothing ,and jewelry shops, and some of the best home-décor venues you’ll find in Southern California – mostly with a beachy theme, of course. Shopping in Laguna Beach is such a fun experience and popular pastime. There are nearly a hundred of these shops nestled in various clusters in the north part of town, the downtown village, and the very southern tip of the Pacific Coast Highway. Even for non-shopaholics, it’s impossible to resist browsing and buying something here. Trust me, I know.Pageant of the Masters – July 7-September 2, 2022Laguna Beach is not just renowned for its surfing. Art also reigns supreme here and nothing is more impressive than its Pageant of the Masters.This theatrical performance transforms art from a two-dimensional canvas to three-dimensional real life. The pageantry alone is responsible for putting Laguna Beach on the radar as a stellar and serious Southern California art destination.Famous works of art are acted out in this 90-minute unforgettable star-lit theatrical performance. A live narrator guides the audience through the story of each renowned piece of art, accompanied by music from a full orchestra. This year’s performance runs from July 5-September 2 and the 2002 theme covers a kaleidoscope of international art providing a passport to distant lands, fascinating history, and cultural celebrations. It’s one of the most unique productions in the world and an absolute must-do. Get your tickets here>>Laguna Beach Festival of the Arts – July 5-September 2, 2022A top-rated juried art show, Festival of the Arts features some of Laguna Beach’s finest creative artists. Held every summer, the dates coincide with the Pageant of the Masters. This year, the festival features over 140 artists showcasing their magnificent artisan pieces in an outdoor setting just a short walk from downtown Laguna Beach. You’ll find paintings, ceramics, photography, jewelry, and much more.The event also features art workshops, art tours, nightly entertainment, jazz concerts, cooking demonstrations, wine and chocolate pairing, and more.It’s the perfect place to treat yourself to a stunning work of art or handcrafted artisan piece. It’s also great for finding that unique or unusual gift for family or friends that can’t be found elsewhere.Sawdust Art Festival – June 24-August 28, 2022There’s certainly no shortage of magnificent art shows in Laguna Beach. Since 1967, the Sawdust Art Festival has sponsored local artists who exhibit and sell their magnificent handcrafted wares in a picturesque outdoor setting in booths and tents under the trees of the magnificent Laguna Canyon.Sawdust’s Summer Festival will take place June 24-August 28 with over 200 artists, live music, art classes, foodie experiences, and more. Winter Fantasy returns again this year for five weekends in November and December (dates will be announced).Laguna Art MuseumIf nature hasn’t already blessed Laguna Beach with sheer unadulterated beauty, rest assured its talented artists have captured its splendor in many other ways. Just strolling through its downtown, we found a myriad of unique and creative works of fine art celebrating the sun and the sea.Art lovers should not miss the Laguna Art Museum situated on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This scenic spot was specifically selected by Laguna Beach artists in 1929. As the oldest cultural institution in the area, the museum’s collection covers all periods and styles since the 19th-century. We call it the perfect balance between the historical and the contemporary with more than 3,000 works of art in various forms by California artists representing the life and history of our state.Laguna PlayhouseFor a relatively small town, Laguna Beach sure has some talented actors! A historic theatre within the art colony of Laguna Beach, the Laguna Playhouse hosts live comedy, drama, musicals, and family child-friendly performances. It’s so good that it received the “Best in OC” Live Theatre award by the OC Register every year since 2015.Founded as a community theatre in 1920, the playhouse’s mission is to enrich lives through the magic of live theatre and create experiences that stimulate cultural and social interaction inspiring the community. Get your tickets here>>And with over 90 restaurants within eight miles of the theatre, it’s easy to nab a delightful pre-performance lunch or dinner.Check out this Local’s Favorite: Victoria BeachWe’re giving this beach its own special shout-out! Thanks to a local recommendation, we discovered Victoria Beach, a fairly secret place mostly known by only the locals. Surprisingly, you can get to the beach through a residential part of town. A steep and narrow set of concrete stairs descends to a secluded pristine beach overshadowed by towering rocky cliffs pounded by impressive winter waves. You can see a soaring 60-foot medieval-like “Pirate Tower” in this small beach cove, but only at low tide.  Dodging the powerful incoming surf to reach the tower is an adventure within itself. But it’s so worth it!Stroll the Promenade of Heisler ParkThere can’t be a more beautiful promenade on the West Coast than the incredible oceanfront Heisler Park winding along the bluffs of the Laguna Coast. Walking trails lead to stunning gardens, picturesque overlooks, and a gazebo all offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the tide pools of its lower beaches. At low tide, you’ll see locals and visitors alike exploring on the rocks or walking the series of connected long beach stretches.Each bend in the oceanside trail leads to more awe-inspiring vistas. Benches along the way invite strollers to relax and celebrate the incredible gifts Mother Nature has created. Artists with their colorful palates try to best capture the essence of their spectacular surroundings. It’s quite the treat to watch them bring their special magic to the canvas.Picnic tables and barbeques are located on the park’s grassy knolls for those who love to grill in the great outdoors and play lawn games like Bocce and bowling.   Crescent Bay Point Park   One of the most popular sunset-watching spots in all of Laguna Beach, this small blufftop park offers unsurpassed views of the Pacific Ocean, its magnificent tide pools, and coastline.The park is perfect for picnicking, whale watching, and photo shoots, but it has no restroom facilities. We love the walking path along the perimeter of the park with railings to safeguard outdoor enthusiasts from the steep cliff drop-offs.Two offshore areas known as Dead Man’s Reef and Seal Rock are popular scuba-diving locations. This is also an area where a myriad of sea lions and birds gather atop the rocks. Swimming in Crescent Bay is dangerous because of rip tides, so swimmers and snorkelers who are into more adventurous activities should definitely wear fins.Laguna Coast Wilderness ParkThere aren’t many coastal canyon wilderness areas remaining in Southern California. Thankfully, the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park created by the Natural Community Conservation Planning program is one of them Though the park is surrounded by housing developments, it’s a gift to know that this habitat was designed to protect rare and endangered species, along with the disappearing Coastal Sage Scrub community. Wildlife spotting in the canyon often includes Mule Deer, Long-tailed Weasels, Bobcats, Red-tailed Hawks, and other coastal species.Forty miles of well-maintained trails lead hikers through oak and sycamore woodlands and onto ridges providing expansive scenic vistas. Rocky bluffs towering above the canyon trails showcase panoramic views of the rolling hills, grasslands, and the Pacific Ocean with Laguna’s beaches in the distance. It’s like seeing California as it’s existed for thousands of years.  It’s no wonder the habitat is popular with not only hikers but also with mountain bikers and horseback enthusiasts traversing through miles of Orange County’s pristine natural lands.For a good place to get an orientation, trail information, and learn more about the Wilderness Park, visit the park’s award-winning Nix Nature Center. We found the rangers here exceedingly helpful and more than happy to assist visitors and offer the inside scoop on how to best enjoy this coastal wilderness park.Crystal Cove State ParkOrange County’s largest remaining preserve of open space and natural seashore is located in Newport Beach’s picturesque Crystal Cove State Park. We’re mentioning the park as it’s only a mere five miles up the coast from Laguna Beach and an absolute must-visit coastal treasure.Featuring 3.2 miles of beach and 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness, the Cove’s historic district is like taking a step back in time. The seaside colony with 46 vintage rustic cottages built in the 1930s and 40s has been authentically restored, paying homage to this earlier era. These beach gems have amazing nostalgic appeal and are available by reservation.Pacific Marine Mammal CenterThis non—profit organization rescues and rehabilitates marine mammals washed ashore on Orange County’s beaches due to illness or injury. The Pacific Marine Mammal Center also inspires ocean stewardship through research, education, and collaboration. Beach clean-ups are one of their most popular volunteer programs.The Marine Center is open every day of the week and though there’s no admission charge, donations are highly appreciated. On a recent visit, we observed California sea lions, Pacific Harbor, Northern Elephant, and Northern Fur Seals.Jacque Cousteau once said, “The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” This describes Laguna Beach to a T.Find a Hotel in Laguna BeachLast Updated on June 21, 2022 by sandiegoexplorerThe post 14 Fantastic Things to Do in Laguna Beach, CA appeared first on San Diego Explorer.

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