Lake San Marcos Resort & Country Club is a Great Place to Dine, Stay or Golf in North County

Posted by Barry Berndes

Lake San Marcos Resort and Country Club is ideally situated for both activity and relaxation. Surrounding a lake, nestled in rolling hills and just 8 miles from the ocean, its climate is a perfect combination of warm and sunny with refreshing ocean breezes.

Your days can be filled with golf, boating, tennis, workouts at the fitness center, outdoor spa sessions and fun at the club’s two pools. Their scenic 250 acres are also great for running and walking. You’ll discover that this isn’t just a sanctuary for people, much wildlife can be found here too.

For a casual lunch or dinner, their restaurant, Gordon’s on the Green, provides a diverse menu overlooking the golf links. For something more customized, our culinary staff can arrange menus for poolside BBQs, a cocktail party by the lake, intimate picnics or elegant weddings.

Old California Restaurant Row in San Marcos

Posted by Barry Berndes

San Marcos is home to Old California Restaurant Row, where you will discover over 15 impressive restaurants and a diverse selection of cuisine from around the world. Many of these restaurants are great for live entertainment, dancing, happy hour and group dining. Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at the charming Village Boutique stores in their Courtyard near Friar’s Folly.

Hollywood’s Universal Studios is the Ultimate Hollywood Experience

Posted by Barry Berndes

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Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood experience! Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place:  thrilling theme park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and Los Angeles’ best shops, restaurants and cinemas at CityWalk. Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that’s fun for the whole family.

Go behind the scenes on a real working movie studio where you will get to explore where Hollywood movies are made on the legendary Studio Tour, come face to face with King Kong 360 3-D created by Peter Jackson. It’s the world’s largest, most intense 3-D experience, and experience our Special Effects Stage where you’ll learn the secrets behind the making of your favorite blockbuster movies.

This experience of a lifetime will get into the Movies! You’ll face the action head on in heart-pounding rides, shows and attractions that put you inside some of the world’s biggest movies. Prepare for the greatest battle you’ll ever ride on Transformers: The Ride-3D. Brave the world’s scariest indoor roller coaster: Revenge of the Mummy – The Ride. Hang on for your life as you crash your way through the animated world of The Simpsons™ on a revolutionary, new virtual roller coaster! Join Shrek and Donkey on an ogre-the-top adventure on Shrek 4-D.

End your day with the energy and excitement of Universal CityWalk, where everything is Always Unexpected. All this and much more. Only at Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A.

Most importantly, save on the cost of admission to Universal Studios and gain access to Southern California’s most popular attractions by purchasing a CityPass here.

Cliffhanger Cafe at the Torrey Pines Gliderport

Posted by Barry Berndes

Cliff Hanger Cafe

There is no place on earth quite like the Cliffhanger Cafe, located at the Torrey Pines Gliderport in La Jolla. While having lunch you’ll be able to watch colorful gliders flying effortlessly in the sunny San Diego skies above you. And if you are a tiny bit adventurous, for a mere ($150) you too can enjoy an adventure of a lifetime by taking a tandem glider ride with a seasoned professional above the cliffs of romantic La Jolla Shores. Be here at noon, when the wind is blowing gently through your hair on a warm, sunny San Diego day. Life doesn’t get any better than this.

Here too is Chef Miguel Fernandez, clad in his white chef’s uniform turning out one delicious made-to-order sandwich after another. In fact, each sandwich is so good that the café was proclaimed “Best sandwich with a view” by San Diego Magazine.

But don’t take anyone else’s word for it, come try one of their mouthwatering sandwiches yourself. With names like Venetian Wind, Tandem and La Jollan and filled with mouthwatering ingredients like provolone cheese, sun-dried tomatos, avocado, jicama, onion, chipotle ranch dressing, sliced turkey and fresh lettuce, you’ll surely agree that this is one chef that knows how to prepare a great sandwich.

Don’t forget to use our coupon for one free soda with the purchase of any sandwich!

Dress casually, bring a jacket if there is a cool breeze, bring your camera and you’ll definitely have a great time.

Depending on conditions, you may also see hang glider, remote control, or even sailplane activities!

The Cliffhanger Cafe is open daily (except on Christmas Day) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit on Saturdays in April through September from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for live music entertainment and BBQ at the Gliderport. They will feature up-and-coming bands and independent artists in a variety of styles!

Ramona Airport is an Aviation Center for San Diego’s Inland and Mountain Communities

Posted by Barry Berndes

With an annual average temperature of 71 degrees, nearly 340 days of ideal flying weather and its proximity to North County business and recreation centers, Ramona Airport is an ideal destination for work or pleasure. With just over 164,000 operations (takeoffs and landings) each year, Ramona is the third busiest facility among the County of San Diego’s eight airports.

Ramona Airport started as a dusty Navy airstrip in 1943. In 1956, ownership was transferred to the County of San Diego where it evolved into an aviation center for San Diego’s inland and mountain communities. At the beginning of 2003, the runway and a parallel taxiway were extended to 5,000 feet. By the end of 2003, the airport completed construction on a four-story air traffic control tower.

Sanctioned by the National Hot Rod Association nearly 60 years ago, a quarter-mile drag strip was constructed at Ramona Airport. Racers were hitting speeds of nearly 130 m.p.h. Remnants of this old hot rod playground remain alongside the airport’s runway.

Don’t miss their annual Open House on September 7th.

Ramona_open_house1

Fallbrook Community Airpark is a Gateway to the Village of Fallbrook and is Home to 125 Aircraft

Posted by Barry Berndes

Tucked away in northern San Diego County is a gem of a community: Fallbrook. The emerald hills and valley are home to celebrities and everyday people.

Fallbrook Community Airpark is a gateway to this village of 35,000. It sits atop a hill, and houses about 125 aircraft. Fuel and transient parking are available. Views from the runway and the adjacent viewing and picnicking area are spectacular: Mt. Palomar to the east, Camp Pendleton. to the west, the San Luis Rey Valley to the south and downtown Fallbrook to the north.

When you think of the area, avocados probably come to mind. True, it is a center of agriculture and avocado groves are everywhere, but Fallbrook’s Main Street is a real find, an eclectic collection of antique shops, restaurants, art galleries, jewelry stores and other interesting businesses. There’s even an historical museum which traces the community’s growth from 1886 when the Reche brothers named the area after their home in Pennsylvania (Fall Brook).

Over the years celebrities found their way to town. Hall of Fame baseball player Duke Snider, Martin Milner (Adam 12, Route 66), movie director Frank Capra (It’s a Wonderful Life), Henry Fonda, John Barrymore, Lon Chaney, Liberace and Earle Stanley Gardner all had or have homes in Fallbrook.

Golf is another attraction to the area. Some of the best courses in Southern California are in or near Fallbrook. Pala Mesa Resort, San Luis Rey Downs, Golf Club of California, Fallbrook Golf Club and Temecula Creek Inn are all popular destinations for those with a love of the game.

Mission Trails Offers Bird-Watching Hikes, Class

Posted by Barry Berndes

Mission Trails Regional Park offers two ways to enjoy our feathers friends:

• Join Trail Guide and Birder Jeanne Raimond for a free adventure in bird watching on the third Saturday of each month from 8-10 a.m.

• Join Trail Guide and Birder Winona Sollock for a free 90-minute class to learn five simple techniques for identifying birds in the field. You’ll also learn how to use a field guide, so bring one along if you have one. This free class meets the last Saturday of each month at 1 p.m. in room “A” of the Visitor Center.

Mission Trails Regional Park is at One Father Junipero Serra Trail in San Diego. For more information, visit http://mtrp.org or call (619) 668-3281.

Tamarack Beach Resort & Hotel Offers Oceanfront Rooms & Attractive Suites in a Romantic Setting

Posted by Barry Berndes

Highly recommended is the Tamarack Beach Resort (14), which genuinely captures the charm of Carlsbad. This resort, with its Mediterranean-style architecture and decor, has full service one- and two-bedroom vacation rentals and luxury hotel rooms overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean.

If you prefer, you can just relax on the sky terrace or beside the pool inside the lush tamarack courtyard. Hotel guests can also receive complimentary continental breakfast, newspaper and choice of 400 movies from their video library.

They are conveniently located near the Carlsbad Village, excellent shopping and restaurants nearby.

Experience the Historic Carlsbad Village

Posted by Barry Berndes

Carlsbad Village is home to romantic restaurants and fascinating little shops. One great discovery is Carlsbad’s most photographed historic site, which is now home to the Ocean House Restaurant (7). Ocean House was originally one of two Victorian homes. This building was constructed in 1887, which was a year before the construction of the famous Hotel del Coronado in Coronado by two of Carlsbad’s founding fathers. Their Sunday Champagne Brunch ($22.95) is extremely popular.

At the opposite end of the block to the north is Witch Creek Winery (8) at 2906 Carlsbad Blvd. (760-720-7499). Come in and taste their delicious handcrafted wines, including their award-winning red wines. Tastings are ($5) and you can keep the complimentary logo glass. The tasting room is also home to special events such as intimate concerts, dinners and mixers. They’re open Sun.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–5 p.m. and Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. with extended summer hours. See San Diego Wineries chapter.

While in the Village, don’t miss the Carlsbad Village Farmer’s Market (3) held at 2930 Roosevelt St. between Grand Avenue and Carlsbad Village Drive. Local vendors gather to sell everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to flowers, specialty foods and crafts. It takes place Wed., 1 p.m.–5 p.m. and Sat., 1 p.m.–5 p.m. rain or shine. Plus, it’s California Certified, which means only the freshest produce from local farmers is offered.

Filippi's Pizza Grotto is a Classic Italian Family Restaurant in San Diego

Posted by Barry Berndes

This restaurant has yet to be viewed by San Diego’s Dean of Restaurant reviewers. Browse our restaurant page to find other great restaurants around San Diego.

Kearny Mesa
5353 Kearny Villa Road
San Diego, 92123
(858) 279 – 7240 		  Chula Vista
82 Broadway
Chula Vista, 91910
(619) 427 – 6650		   Escondido
114 West Grand Avenue
Escondido, 92025
(760) 747 – 2650
         
Jamul
13881 Campo Road
Jamul, 91935
(619) 669 – 1080		   Mira Mesa
9969 Mira Mesa Blvd.
San Diego, 92131
(858) 586 – 0888		   Mission Gorge
10330 Friars Road
San Diego, 92120
(619) 281 – 3511
         
Napa Valley
645 First Street
Napa, 94559
(707) 254 – 9700		   Pacific Beach
962 Garnet Avenue
San Diego, 92109
(858) 483 – 6222		   Poway
13000 Oak Knoll Drive
Poway, 92064
(858) 748 – 1800
         
Little Italy
1747 India Street
San Diego, 92101
(619) 232 – 5094		   Santee
10767 Woodside Avenue
Santee, 92071
(619) 562 – 7878		   Temecula
27309 Jefferson Avenue #110
Temecula, 92590
(909) 699 – 8900

The Pennant Bar Has Been a Local Mission Beach Favorite For Drinking & Dining For Over 60 Years

Posted by Barry Berndes

This South Mission legend has been a local favorite for 60 years. What makes it so great is that it is the epitome of a San Diego beach bar and restaurant.

The regular clientele is a mixture of neighborhood regulars and San Diego natives, including school teachers, flight attendants, nurses, lawyers and local college students. In the summer this place is flooded with beach visitors from all over the nation, especially Arizona. The popular rooftop patio is the perfect place to soak up the sun, quench your thirst and satisfy your hunger with a refreshing, frosty beer and tasty food. The food comes from Chef Greg’s grill called the G Spot.

They serve beach favorites like juicy half pound cheese burgers, crispy french fries and their famous grilled cheese sandwich. The house speciality, posole, is served all day. It’s a fragrant soup made with pork, hominy and chilies and served with tortillas. For breakfast order the McGregor, which is eggs, bacon and plenty of cheese on sourdough toast with breakfast potatoes. For a great day at the beach, do as the locals do and come to The Pennant for food and fun.

The Pennant, South Mission Beach . Open Mon., 11 a.m.–2 a.m.; and Tues.–Sun., 8 a.m.–2 a.m. Breakfast is served Sat.–Sun., 8:30 a.m.–noon.; dinner daily at 5 p.m.

Casa de Bandini Mexican Restaurant in South Carlsbad is a Local Favorite for Fiesta & Fun

Posted by Barry Berndes

Festive south-of-the-border cuisine served by attentive servers in colorful attire has made Diane Powers’ Casa de Bandini the most popular Mexican restaurant in North County. Adding to the ambiance are strolling mariachi that serenade you at your table while you dine.

A great beginning to any meal are warm tortilla chips and a frosty margarita. Their colorful five page menu is filled with wonderful dining selections. Hard to beat are their famous combination plates.

A great recommendation is their carne asada and shrimp combination served on a bed of Mexican rice with black beans and savory guacamole on the side. No less delicious is their burrito de Bandini, which is a longtime customer favorite. It’s a large burrito filled with juicy seasoned shredded beef and frijoles. Then it’s topped with a savory cheese sauce and lots of sour cream, served with tasty Mexican rice.

They also offer a “Healthy Dining Menu” featuring grilled chicken, fish burritos and vegetarian delights as well as a Mexican stir-fry. So come join the fun and dine like you are in Old Mexico at the festive Casa de Bandini in Carlsbad.

Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Happy hour is served Mon.–Fri., 3 p.m.–5 p.m. in the cantina. Breakfast is served all day.

The Landings Restaurant Offers Views of planes Taking Off & Landing at the McClellan Airport

Posted by Barry Berndes

The fabulous $24 million McClellan Airport got even better with the opening of The Landings Restaurant. This popular dining destination called the Landings offers both airline travelers and locals a unique opportunity to have a meal while watching airplanes take off and land. Early birds will like their menu because it is packed with everyone’s favorite breakfast items including omelets, hotcakes, French toast and waffles topped with strawberries or blueberries.

Lunch and dinner continue the hit parade at the Landings Restaurant with tasty appetizers, soups, chef’s salads and gourmet sandwiches and wraps.

Also on the menu at the Landings Restaurant are south-of-the-border favorites such as tasty fish tacos. Big, delicious and easy to recommend is their hot pastrami sandwich with Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut served on grilled rye bread. All of their sandwiches at the Landings Restaurant include your choice of fresh coleslaw, a tossed salad or French fries, which can be substituted with fresh fruit, cottage cheese or onion rings. For a delicious meal with a view of planes taking off and landing at the airport, this is a popular destination.

Hours & Days Open: Sunday 8 a.m.– 4 p.m.Mon. – Thurs. 10:30 a.m. –8 p.m. Friday 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. & Sat. 8 a.m. –9 p.m.

CREDIT CARDS: AE, DISC, MC, VISA.

Grande Colonial Hotel Offers Majestic Ocean Views and is Home to a World-Class Restaurant

Posted by Barry Berndes

Ideally situated in the beachfront village of La Jolla, California, The Grande Colonial Hotel is a 2012 AAA Four Diamond Award winner and a historic beauty that honors its traditions yet offers contemporary amenities and services beyond other La Jolla hotels near San Diego. Built in 1913 as the Colonial Apartment and Hotel, the Grande Colonial was a trailblazer in its day. Its original white wood-framed building was the first lodging facility in downtown La Jolla and saw today’s tourist town grow around it. The hotel is footsteps away from lovely beaches, including Blacks Beach, La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores, and Windansea Beach, and is the preferred choice of boutique hotels near San Diego attractions such as Torrey Pines Golf Course and State Park. The Grande Colonial hotel has played an integral role in the La Jolla beach community for nearly a century.

Commanding views of the California coastline, this landmark boutique hotel overlooks the shores of the Pacific Ocean and is ideally located just steps away from miles of beautiful beaches renowned to Southern California. Soak up the sun on Blacks Beach or La Jolla Shores Beach, and explore the natural beauty of Torrey Pines State Park while staying nearby at our luxury accommodations. The historic Grande Colonial Hotel is within walking distance of world-class shopping, dining and entertainment and only a short drive away from an abundance of golf, recreation and visitor attractions.

The Grande Colonial Hotel features a five-story main building, as well as three separate suites buildings, all encompassing air-conditioned, non-smoking guest rooms and luxury suites (some with fully-equipped kitchens and fireplaces). Also offered is 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space (most with ocean front views), accommodating up to 60 people for lunches and dinners and 120 people for cocktail receptions. And the highly acclaimed, award-winning NINE-TEN Restaurant at the Grande Colonial Hotel boasts nationally acclaimed chefs, “Evolving California Cuisine” and a Wine Spectator-recognized wine list.

With its ideal location, gracious service, and environment of extraordinary comfort, the Grande Colonial Hotel is the premier destination among La Jolla hotels near San Diego.

NINE-TEN is an Award Winner of the Prestigious Top 10 Molecular Restaurants in America

Posted by Barry Berndes

An ongoing commitment to innovative cuisine using only the freshest local produce makes NINE-TEN a must visit for culinary aficionados. This intimate restaurant, led by award-winning chef Jason Knibb (a 2010 Rising Star Chef winner) and pastry chef Jack Fisher (San Diego’s 2010 Best Chocolatier), offers the perfect combination of sophistication and casual elegance and an ideal location along La Jolla’s historic Prospect Street.

Every visit to NINE-TEN will tantalize with fresh, seasonal cuisine. Enjoy the best of the harvest from local artisan farmers, where produce is selected daily for the restaurant’s Evolving California Cuisine, recognized with a 2011 “extraordinary to perfection” rating by ZAGAT. The bounty of the sea is also featured with local fish selections and items arriving daily from Hawaii and the North Pacific and Atlantic regions.

Special prix fixe menus are available daily and feature matching wines from the extensive, Wine Spectator-awarded wine cellar. Enjoy dining indoors or al fresco on the sidewalk patio or terrace. A separate bar offers limited menu and happy hour specials daily. NINE-TEN is open daily for breakfast and lunch. Dinner is served nightly from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays.)

$5 valet parking is available with validation. Street parking is also available.
festyles Magazine

Inn at Sunset Cliffs Offers a Panoramic View of the Ocean and the Scenic Ocean Beach Pier

Posted by Barry Berndes

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs is the best oceanfront hotel in San Diego and is located in historical Point Loma, California. They are one of only a few San Diego hotels truly located on the Pacific Ocean, just steps away from Ocean Beach. The Inn at Sunset Cliffs is truly one of the only San Diego beach hotels that is actually a waterfront hotel. Oceanfront suites with the sea breeze just outside your door.

Sunset Cliffs creates scenic atmospheres all year long, with million-dollar views everyday. San Diego Beaches are near, being just a few blocks away from the hotel. Experience the great San Diego surfing with an awesome location to scope where to ride for your session just a few steps away from your room. Wake up to the sounds of the waves crashing onto our property. Look out at the Pacific Ocean to see the beauty San Diego has to offer. When you feel like relaxing, their two ocean view terraces allow you to view out over the horizon of the Pacific Ocean. Kick your feet up and let the wave take you away.

The Inn at Sunset Cliffs has on going opportunities for their customers customers. From relaxing massages on our ocean view terraces with Therapie Day Spa to local rentals for water sports, we want to accommodate all and have you take a piece of our real San Diego living experience with you to spread our way of life. Pure relaxation and comfortable atmospheres.

Coronado Plaza is in the Heart of the Coronado Village With Ocean Views & Delicious Dining

Posted by Barry Berndes

Coronado Plaza is located on the west side of the Coronado Island prominently located in the heart of “Coronado Village “ which features quaint palm tree lined streets, filled with boutiques, shops and restaurants. Coronado Plaza has 17 shops and restaurants located on two levels with a third floor of executive suites and offers under ground parking.

It is across the boulevard from the historical Hotel Del Coronado. The picturesque beauty of Coronado Island attracts over 2 million visitors annually and is located a short 15 minute drive from downtown San Diego. The building itself contains three, elevator serviced floors over an underground parking garage. Future renovation plans include lowering the sidewalk facing the Hotel Del Coronado to allow for new storefronts and enhancement of the exterior common areas.

Street parking is available and paid parking is also available at the rate of $1 for every half hour with a maximum of 2 and a half hours or
$5.00 for all day.

Coronado Restaurants at the Coronado Plaza
Stores & Businesses at the Coronado Plaza

333 Pacific Offers Spectacular Sunsets

Posted by Barry Berndes

333 Pacific

 

 

 

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If you are looking for San Diego Restaurants with ocean views, look no farther than 333 Pacific in Oceanside. It’s one of North County’s most spectacular restaurant. It overlooks the Oceanside Pier and at sunset the view is unsurpassed! They serve fresh seafood and steaks nightly with an emphasis on presentation and innovation. For example, a sensational appetizer is their crab, shrimp and lobster cake ancho aioli with a mango salsa. It’s a winner!

Another delicacy is the spicy tuna eggplant tempura. And their main course selections are equally spectacular! You can’t go wrong with their grilled king salmon with a mushroom-spinach risotto or their sizzling 16-oz certified angus New York steak with mashed potatoes. Equally delicious is the tapenade roasted organic half chicken with broccolini, polenta cake and a tarragon.

Then there is steamed Alaskan king crab legs. You will love this place. They also have two private dining rooms and a spacious patio to host your next big event.

 

John Beran Specializes in Carlsbad, Oceanside & North County San Diego Coastal Real Estate

Posted by Barry Berndes

John Beran specializes in all types of Carlsbad and Oceanside real estate properties, from single-family homes to estates within many incredible neighborhoods and planned communities. Ask about highly prized Carlsbad homes that are perfect for a wide range of first, second and vacation home buying needs; or survey the Oceanside real estate market for the perfect family friendly setting. Whether you are searching for rare properties in the renowned Saint Malo Beach or a modest home in Carlsbad.

No matter what your needs or goals, you will be treated with the highest caliber of professionalism and integrity. Visit and explore his website and learn more about North County San Diego, the way of life and to begin your search for Carlsbad and Oceanside real estate. When you are ready to take the next serious step towards securing your dream home, John Beran will be there to answer your call.

North County San Diego and the cities of Carlsbad and Oceanside are a breathtaking coastal area that is an acclaimed resort destination that has long been one of the finest places to live work and play. Featuring the quintessential Southern California weather, exceptional natural surroundings and access to a wonderful selection of attractions and activities, this community is perfect for people of all ages.

Locally renowned Realtor® John Beran will guide you through the area, neighborhoods, and way of life while looking forward to showing you the finest North County San Diego homes for sale in the Carlsbad and Oceanside real estate market. John Beran has served the community for over 30 years and understands the significance that any real estate venture can hold for your life. Thus he strives to provide both buyers and sellers with the level of professional services and personal attention that enhances every step of the experience.

Expect a partner that not only has the knowledge and experience you need, but also makes himself available to answer all of your questions, address your concerns, manage solutions to all challenges and provide advice that is always in your best interests. You can also continue to depend on him as a local resource and friend long after your Carlsbad & Oceanside real estate transaction is complete.

Costa Azul Coronado, Grill & Cantina Has Top-Rated Farm-to-Table Mexican Cuisine

Posted by Barry Berndes

Costa Azul Coronado, Grill & Cantina is Home of the Swordfish Taco and #1 ranked by Zagat as Coronado’s top rated Mexican Restaurant. Join their VIP Club for great savings on food and drinks (Text Costa 91944). They have happy hour daily 3:30–6:30 p.m. with live music almost nightly and Taco Tuesdays with Latin guitarist Mario Olivares and Friends. On Wednesday, they offer 20% off food if you are in the military. Friday and Saturday, live music starts after 8 p.m.

This lively south-of-the-border, cantina-style restaurant is a local favorite for its great tasting, California fresh, farm-to-table entrees made with local ingredients, including locally caught fish. Diners love sitting on their spacious street front patio with its lush, tropical plants and ocean breezes. And they never tire of watching locals and vacationers along Orange Ave. on foot and by car along Coronado’s world famous main thoroughfare.

Comfortable seating is also available inside the cantina with its spacious booths and large table. Their large cantina-style bar is another great place to sit with its sweeping view of the entire restaurant. You’ll definitely enjoy this south-of-the-border dining experience.

Of course, no meal would be complete without having their signature Costa Rita margarita or one of their popular house favorites, such as a refreshing, minty mojito. And you absolutely can’t go wrong with an ice-cold Mexican beer with a slice of lime.

For starters, be sure to order their fresh guacamole dip with tortilla chips, while you study their extensive menu filled with close to 100 delicious entrées. A house favorite is their traditional Mexican chicken soup. Others include fresh salads, sandwiches, their great “build your own” Mexican combination plates and lots of south-of-the-border house specials, which rival each other for being the best of the best.

And, believe it or not, they also serve tender steaks and to-die-for baby back ribs, smothered in their house made barbecue sauce. There is no doubt about it; this local favorite definitely has an unforgettable entrée for virtually every taste. So what to order is never a problem.

Many diners set their eyes on having one of their south-of-the-border specials, which are hard to beat! A local favorite is their hard-to-beat Carnitas Ole! This mouth-watering entrée consists of large chunks of seasoned, seared and braised pork, cooked in Mexican beer, citrus and spices. It’s served on a large oval platter with a mound of delicious guacamole, salsa and warm tortillas. It’s mouth-watering, delicious and totally filling!

Burrito lovers will rave about each one of their six delicious burritos, be it their shrimp burrito, lobster burrito, carne asada burrito, chili verde burrito or veggie burrito made with their fresh salsa fresca topped with their savory chili Verde sauce! Wow!

More local favorites on their extensive menu, which can undoubtedly satisfy everyone’s appetite, are their totally satisfying Mexican combination plates, which offer diners a choice of one or two item combos. These include tacos served four different ways, quesadillas served with three different ingredients, three kinds of enchiladas as well as tasty tostadas made with your choice of carne asada, chicken, shredded beef, ground beef or beans. Ole!

But their menu doesn’t stop with just Mexican cuisine! So, if someone in your party isn’t in the mood for Mexican food, don’t worry. Costa Azul is also well-known for their American fare with another dozen equally delicious, mouth-watering entrees, such as grilled salmon, tasty chicken fettuccini alfredo and their world famous Pacific Swordfish. Plus, baby back ribs smothered in their house made barbeque sauce, fish and chips and a tender flat iron steak grilled to perfection, topped with gorgonzola butter and served with sautéed spinach and mashed potatoes. Plus, they offer kids meals like corn dogs and mac and cheese.

And a fitting conclusion to a memorable meal at Costa Azul Coronado is to order one of their memorable desserts, be it a slice of their delicious cheesecake or an ice cream sundae. Dining at Costa Azul Mexican Restaurant is yet another good reason to come to Coronado to enjoy great tasting Mexican food and have fun discovering this historic seaside resort town (circa 1886), which is across the bridge from Downtown San Diego.

IMAX Films Play Almost Everyday at Reuben H. Fleet Science Center's Giant Dome Theater in Balboa Park

Posted by Barry Berndes

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park shows IMAX films that are both awe-inspiring and educational almost everyday in their Eugene Heikoff and Marilyn Jacobs Heikoff Giant Dome Theater. Regular adult admission to each of the IMAX films is $17. Discounted admission is available for members of the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, children and seniors. For information on current and upcoming IMAX films at the Giant Dome Theater and to purchase tickets, visit rhfleet.org.

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is located at 1875 El Prado in San Diego’s Balboa Park. Click here for directions.

Reuben H. Fleet Science Center's IMAX en Español

Posted by Barry Berndes

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center presents IMAX en Español, a monthly event where popular IMAX films are shown with a Spanish soundtrack. IMAX en Español is the first monthly Spanish IMAX film event to take place in the U.S. Once a month, an IMAX film is shown with a Spanish soundtrack in the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center’s Eugene Heikoff and Marilyn Jacobs Heikoff Giant Dome Theater. For information on upcoming IMAX en Español films, visit rhfleet.org.

General adult admission is $17. Discounts are available for children, seniors and members of the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. Click here to purchase tickets. Admission includes one IMAX film as well as access to the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center’s exhibit galleries, which feature more than 100 hands-on exhibits for all ages. Many of the exhibits feature bilingual explanatory text.

For those unable to make it to an IMAX en Español event, headsets are also always available free of charge for audiences to listen to available Spanish soundtracks at IMAX films with English soundtracks.

The Reuben H. Fleet Science Center is located at 1875 El Prado in San Diego’s Balboa Park.

Guided Walks at Mission Trails Regional Park

Posted by Barry Berndes

Free guided nature walks are offered every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday at Mission Trails Regional Park in San Diego. Join an MTRP Trail Guide in the Visitor Center at 9:30 a.m. for a free guided nature walk and learn about the history, geology, plants, animals and ecology of the park.

Trail guides choose from three trails:
• The Oak Grove Trail leads to a small oak woodland with majestic coast live oaks and rare Engelmann oaks.
• The Visitor Center Loop Trail takes you through coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and riparian woodland habitats.
• The Riverside Grinding Rocks Trail leads to one of the archaeological sites in the park, where Kumeyaay Indians historically ground acorns on the rocks for food.

Walks may also include the Native Plant Garden near the Visitor Center. These interpretive nature walks are offered to enhance your appreciation of our open space and the unique beauty of San Diego’s natural environment. Walks are free and open to the public, with no reservations required. Each walk lasts about an hour and a half. The trails used are easy, but have uneven surfaces and some involve steps, so be sure to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring along water. A hat and sunscreen are also recommended.

Mission Trails Regional Park is at One Father Junipero Serra Trail in San Diego. For more information, visit http://mtrp.org or call (619) 668-3281.

Wildlife Walks at Mission Trails Regional Park Near Mission Valley

Posted by Barry Berndes

 

Beautiful wildflowers await your discovery when hiking the trails at Mission Trails Regional Park

Mission Trails Regional Park (27) (619-668-3281) http://mtrp.org is truly one of the ten wonders of the world. It is in fact, larger than Mission Bay and Balboa Park combined. And at 5,800 acres, it is the largest open space urban park west of the Mississippi River. And the spectacular, panoramic view from their 4,000 sq. ft. Visitor Center Terrace is nothing less than breathtaking.

This unique offering includes two lakes, a scenic stretch of the San Diego River and Old Mission Dam; a day-use campground for picnics; and Cowles Mountain, which is the tallest mountain in the city and from the summit offers panoramic views of the city clear to the Pacific Ocean. Plus, there are over 40 miles of trails, which easily accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, rock climbers, birders, and equestrians. There are also 600 different types of plants within the park, including over 300 varieties of wildflowers. Plus, they offer daily interpretive walks, and have a Park Ranger on staff.

The hub of activities takes place at the nearly 15,000 sq. ft. Visitor and Interpretive Center, which is open from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily except New Years, Thanksgiving and Christmas. The park itself is open every day of the year. The Center features a fascinating display of exhibits of animals and foliage in their natural habitat as well as rotating exhibitions of works by local award-winning artists. Don’t miss this unique glimpse of nature, which is only five minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Mission Valley.

The first Saturday morning of each month from 8:30 – 10:30, join a Mission Trails Regional Park Trail Guide and Tracking Team member for an adventure in wildlife tracking!

Learn the art of discovering signs left behind by resident creatures during two fun-filled hours of “dirt time.” These FREE tracking walks meet out in front of the Visitor Center and are suitable for the whole family! Don’t forget to wear long pants, for kneeling down on your knees. Rain cancels the walk.

Mission Trails Regional Park is at One Father Junipero Serra Trail in San Diego. For more information, call (619) 668-3281.

Serra Museum is an Old Town Landmark Museum

Posted by Barry Berndes

Junipero Serra Museum Balboa Park

Serra Museum, in Presidio Park, is one of the most familiar landmarks in San Diego. As a major symbol of the city, it stands atop the hill recognized as the site where California began. It was here in 1769 that a Spanish Franciscan missionary, Father Junípero Serra, with a group of soldiers led by Gaspar de Portolá, established Alta California’s first mission and presidio (fort).

Often confused for the Mission San Diego de Alcalá, Serra Museum was built between 1928-1929 for the purpose of housing and showcasing the collection of the San Diego History Center (then the San Diego Historical Society), which was founded in 1928. The structure was designed by architect, William Templeton Johnson, using Spanish Revival architecture, to resemble the early missions that once dominated the landscape of Southern California.

Serra Museum is available for school tours by appointment only Tuesday to Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. To make a reservation, please call (619) 232-6203 x112. For details of school tours offered, please see School Programs.

Serra Museum is also available for weddings and special events.