Visiting San Diego areas- Inn at the Sea Lodging in La Jolla, Dining at La Dolce Vita & Mavericks, Action Sports and Boardwalk Bikes- Jan. 2025
Lodging
The Inn by the Sea in La Jolla is an absolute gem, and I can’t recommend it enough! From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed into a serene coastal paradise that perfectly captures the charm of La Jolla.
Location, Location, Location!
This hotel is perfectly situated just a short stroll from the beach and the heart of La Jolla Village. Whether you’re looking to spend a day lounging by the ocean, shopping at the local boutiques, or dining at one of the incredible restaurants nearby, everything is within easy walking distance. The convenience of the location alone makes it worth every penny.
Stunning Ocean Views
We stayed in a room with a balcony, and the ocean view was breathtaking. Waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying coffee while looking out over the Pacific was a dream come true. The sunsets from the balcony were nothing short of magical—a perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring.
Outdoor Heated Swimming Pool
One of the highlights of our stay was the outdoor heated swimming pool. Even in the cooler evenings, the pool was a delightful retreat. It’s clean, well-maintained, and surrounded by a relaxing patio area where you can soak up the sun or unwind with a book. It felt like our private oasis!
Comfortable and Spacious Rooms
The rooms are incredibly comfortable and thoughtfully designed. The beds are plush, and the linens are soft, ensuring a great night’s sleep. Our room was impeccably clean and had all the amenities we needed, including fast Wi-Fi, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker. The decor was simple yet elegant, with a coastal touch that felt perfectly in sync with the surroundings.
Exceptional Staff
The staff at Inn by the Sea are some of the friendliest and most accommodating people we’ve ever encountered. From the front desk team to housekeeping, everyone went out of their way to make sure our stay was enjoyable. They provided excellent recommendations for local dining and attractions, which made our trip even more memorable.
Additional Perks
The hotel also offers convenient underground parking, which was a huge plus given the popularity of the area. The lobby features a cozy seating area where you can relax, and they even have complimentary coffee and tea in the mornings—a nice touch!
Overall Experience
The Inn by the Sea is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, this hotel has something for everyone. It’s rare to find a place that feels so much like home while also offering the luxury of a vacation.
We will definitely be returning to the Inn by the Sea for our next trip to La Jolla! If you’re looking for a place that combines stunning views, a fantastic location, and top-notch hospitality, this is it.
For more information or to book your stay, visit their website: Inn by the Sea in La Jolla. You won’t regret it!
Dining:
La Dolce Vita Ristorante in La Jolla is a slice of culinary heaven that delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Nestled in the charming heart of La Jolla, this gem captures the essence of Italian dining, offering guests not just a meal but a journey to Italy, especially the flavors of Sicily. From the moment you step inside, you’re embraced by a warm, inviting atmosphere, elevated by the exceptional service of Tindero, our Sicilian server who truly added an authentic and personal touch to the evening.
The meal began with a selection of appetizers that set the tone for the night. The clams and mussels were a standout, swimming in a garlicky white wine broth that begged for a piece of bread to soak up every last drop. The eggplant involtini was a delicate and flavorful dish, with tender eggplant rolled around a savory ricotta filling and topped with a rich tomato sauce. The burrata was another star, served with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic glaze, paired with fresh tomatoes and basil that practically danced on the palate. And let’s not forget the fried calamari – crispy, golden perfection with just the right amount of seasoning, accompanied by a tangy marinara sauce.
When it came to the entrées, the bar was raised even higher. The lobster ravioli was divine, with tender pasta pockets bursting with succulent lobster in a luxurious creamy sauce. The spinach cannelloni was equally impressive, a comfort food classic elevated with fresh spinach and a rich, velvety bechamel. But the true highlight for me was the crab and spinach fettuccini – a dish that struck the perfect balance of flavors, with delicate crab meat complemented by a light cream sauce and fresh spinach. Each bite was an ode to Italian culinary artistry.
The meal was beautifully complemented by an excellent selection of Italian white wines, which the attentive staff was more than happy to recommend. Their pairing suggestions were spot-on, enhancing the flavors of each dish without overpowering them.
No Italian meal is complete without dessert, and La Dolce Vita did not disappoint. The tiramisu was a textbook example of this beloved classic – light, creamy, and with just the right hint of coffee and cocoa. The cannolis were a delightful treat, their crispy shells filled with a luscious, lightly sweetened ricotta filling. However, the star of the dessert course was the limoncello cheesecake, a perfect blend of creamy richness and zesty lemon that left a refreshing finish to an incredible meal.
Owners Leslie and her husband have created a true masterpiece with La Dolce Vita Ristorante. Their passion for authentic Italian cuisine and genuine hospitality shines through in every aspect of the dining experience. It’s a place where you feel like family, and where every dish is crafted with love and attention to detail.
If you’re looking for a dining experience that combines exceptional food, stellar service, and an authentic Italian ambiance, La Dolce Vita Ristorante is the place to be. Make sure to visit their website for more information and to make a reservation: www.ladolcevitajolla.com.
Buon appetito!
A Must-Visit Spot in Pacific Beach!
We had an incredible experience at Mavericks in Pacific Beach! From the moment we walked in, the vibe was lively and welcoming, and the service was absolutely top-notch.
For lunch, we enjoyed a mouthwatering variety of dishes: the mahi-mahi spinach wrap was fresh and flavorful, the veggie burrito was perfectly seasoned, and the honey-glazed salmon was a standout with its rich, savory glaze. The pretzel bites were the perfect appetizer—warm, soft, and paired with a delicious dipping sauce.
A special shoutout to Abbey, who went above and beyond behind the bar. She crafted some truly amazing drinks, including a refreshing margarita and an unforgettable Mavericks coffee vodka martini. Her bartending skills and friendly service really added to the experience!
Mavericks is more than just a great spot for food and drinks; it’s an exceptional venue. The layout is versatile with multiple rooms, including a cozy side room/bar in the house and an upstairs private event area. At night, the space transforms into a bustling nightclub with a fun, energetic atmosphere. They also offer private booths with reservations for bottle service, making it perfect for celebrations or a VIP night out.
We also had the pleasure of meeting Krista, the event manager and contact person. She’s knowledgeable, accommodating, and clearly passionate about hosting everything from private events and fundraisers to social parties.
Overall, Mavericks is a gem in Pacific Beach. Whether you’re looking for a fantastic meal, expertly crafted cocktails, or a unique venue for your next event, this place has it all. We can’t wait to come back!
For more information or to book a reservation, visit their website: Mavericks Beach Club.
Activities
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in San Diego, Action Sports at the Kona Kai Resort offers incredible action sports options like kayaking and wave running that are perfect for both adrenaline junkies and water enthusiasts.
Kayaking at Kona Kai Resort:
The waters around Kona Kai Resort are ideal for kayaking, offering smooth conditions for beginners while also providing plenty of challenge for more advanced paddlers. You can explore the scenic coastline and nearby Shelter Island, paddling past picturesque views of the marina, the San Diego skyline, and even marine life like seals and dolphins. The resort provides excellent rentals, and if you’re a first-timer, the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful, offering guidance and tips to ensure you have an enjoyable and safe experience.
Wave Running (Jet Skiing):
For those craving more high-octane adventure, Kona Kai’s wave runner (jet ski) rentals offer an exhilarating way to experience the waters of San Diego. The jet skis are in top-notch condition, and the resort’s location provides access to calmer bays or a more thrilling ride into open waters. Whether you’re speeding across the bay or taking it easy and soaking in the stunning views of the coastline, the wave runners are a great way to feel the wind in your hair and make the most of your time on the water.
Both activities are well-supported with excellent facilities and top-notch safety measures. The resort’s proximity to the water makes these action sports super convenient, with easy access from your room to the rental location.
Overall, kayaking and wave running at the Kona Kai Resort are must-try activities that let you enjoy the beauty of San Diego from the water while getting your adrenaline fix. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or a thrill, the resort offers a perfect mix of both, ensuring that your adventure is as memorable as it is exciting! https://www.actionsportrentals.com/kona-kai-resort-hotel-spa/
Boardwalk Bikes in Pacific Beach is a must-visit for your next adventure! 🚴♂️☀️
This spot has an amazing selection of both regular bikes and e-bikes, perfect for cruising around Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and the entire area. Whether you’re out for a relaxing ride along the boardwalk or looking to explore a bit further, they’ve got you covered with quality bikes that are super easy to rent.
The standout experience? The manager, Angelo! He’s incredibly welcoming and accommodating, going out of his way to make sure everything was perfect for our ride. Customer service like this makes all the difference.
If you’re looking for a fun, hassle-free way to explore the beauty of PB and beyond, Boardwalk Bikes is the place to go! 🌊🌴 Check them out at BoardwalkBikes.com.
Photos by Paul Rumohr