San Diego, California

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My views do not necessarily reflect the views of my employer.

June 15-17, 2025

With three days in San Diego, it was obvious that I would get in touch with my mom’s cousin Susie, who has lived in the San Diego area for as long as I can remember. I recalled visiting with Susie several times growing up when she came to Sacramento, but I didn’t have any specific memories of San Diego itself- except for her big Victorian House filled with treasures. Susie and her husband are archeologists and I marveled at how she can give meaning to things people left behind long ago. I tried to remember when I last saw her, and the only time I could track was when we stopped in San Diego during our big cross-country road trip in 2001. Had it really been 24 years? It felt like I had seen her more recently than that, but if I hadn’t been to San Diego and I hadn’t seen Susie in Sacramento, then it really had been that long. My mom and Wendy told me about their visits to see Susie’s daughter Rachael (with the same spelling as my middle name) in a couple of plays. Their recollections made me feel like I had been there too.

We docked in the late morning in the center of town, and Susie picked me up – with her Afghan hound – in her mom’s red Toyota Corolla. It reminded me so much of the ’89 Toyota Turcel that my mom once gave me. She brought me back to her Victorian House, where the outline preserved in my memory was suddenly filled in with detail. Susie told me about the protests she had attended the day before, despite both of her feet being in braces. She fed me exotic berries from her garden and we chatted in her kitchen until her friend was ready for lunch.

We went out for Mexican food, and although I had just been in Mexico, I appreciated the chance to have the good stuff- California-style Tex-Mex- before returning to the ship for my evening desk hours.

That night I was able to sneak back off the ship with Meg and Gidea for late night snacks and cocktails. We shared appetizers, including a steak that I dreamt about for days afterward.

One of the things I love about this ship (and its itinerary) is the overnights. It’s especially fun when we’re docked right in the center of town. During my first years at sea, when I went ashore I always carried the awareness of needing to get on time to be ready for work. On vacation, I could feel the weight of that awareness lift off of me. On Princess, I quickly gave up on being excited about overnights, since I would usually have to stay onboard to run activities, and by the time I finished work, it was too late to go out. Here, I love having the freedom to balance my shipboard duties with the chance to explore the places that I’ve researched. It feels so luxurious to silmply hang out with friends off the ship.

The next day began with a drill in the morning.

This iconic statue was outside the museum right next to our ship.

That afternoon I had another fantastic visit with Susie, and I absolutely loved hearing her stories. When she asked what I wanted to see, I told her I wanted to see San Diego through her eyes. Others could go to the tourist attractions – Susie’s San Diego was an exclusive tour. We drove around, and she showed me the places where she had done archaeological digs. That evening we went to the old town where there was an exhibition of the artifacts she had uncovered.

That night, Rachael happened to be performing in a staged reading. I had heard from my mom and Wendy how talented she was- one of those performers you’d go see even if you weren’t related. Rachael belongs to a group (which I highlighted in my port talk) that celebrates literature and art in the community while also but also conducts workshops in schools to encourage creativity inspired by reading. The group holds staged readings throughout the year, each one focused on a different theme. This performance was extra special, as both Rachael and her husband were participating.

Rachael and I share a name, a vocation, and we grew up in the same state, but this was the first time I had the opportunity to see her perform.

It was awesome.

I loved how she subtly and seemingly effortlessly gave each character both physical and vocal personality. Wendy and my mom were right – Rachael was fantastic. I noticed small details in her performance that revealed her skill, and I appreciated the subtle connections between the stories as well as the performances themselves.

On the last day, Susie drove me through downtown San Diego, pointing out more of the places where she had worked on digs, before taking me to the border.

I found it fascinating that on the US side of the border there was so much open space – regulations prevent building or owning property too close to the line. The plants, understandably, did not look very traversable either. On the Mexican side, buildings stood right on the edge. There was also a sculpture made of found objects that Susie had created with local kids. The landscape was beautiful.

Spending those days with Susie was such a gift. I loved hearing her stories, seeing the places that hold meaning for her, and getting a glimpse into her San Diego. It was also special to reconnect with her family—I got to meet her son Aaron (and his partner), who I hadn’t seen since we were kids. The highlight, of course, was finally seeing Rachael perform. She was every bit as talented as I’d been told, and I left determined to make it a priority to see her again whenever I’m in the country. This visit reminded me how much I value those connections, and it left me already looking forward to the next chance to return.

San Diego, California

Welcome to sunny San Diego, California! You’re in for a few days of seaside charm, urban culture, and laid-back coastal living. With nearly perfect weather, a walkable downtown, and a cruise terminal that puts you right in the heart of it all, San Diego is an ideal place to relax, explore, and enjoy a bit of Southern California flair.

Why Are We Here?

San Diego is a strategic port city and one of the most pleasant places to visit along the Pacific Coast. It’s a city rich in naval history, multicultural influences, world-class food, and stunning outdoor experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, art, science, wildlife, or just lounging in the sun, San Diego has something for you.

History:

San Diego is often called the birthplace of California, and its story stretches back thousands of years. Long before European ships arrived, the region was home to the Kumeyaay people, who lived along the coast and inland valleys for at least 10,000 years. Their deep connection to the land is still visible today through archaeological sites and local traditions.

In 1542, Portuguese explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, sailing under the Spanish flag, became the first European to land on what is now the U.S. West Coast, entering San Diego Bay. However, it wasn’t until 1769 that the Spanish established a permanent settlement here, with the founding of Mission San Diego de Alcalá, the first of California’s 21 missions, and a military presidio.

When Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, San Diego became part of Mexican territory. That lasted until 1848, when the U.S. acquired California at the end of the Mexican-American War. San Diego officially became part of the United States and was incorporated as a city in 1850.

Its growth was gradual until the arrival of the railroad and the rise of the U.S. Navy presence in the early 20th century. The city played a major role in World War II as a military hub, which sparked a population boom and helped transform San Diego into the vibrant city we know today.

Today, San Diego is known for its binational culture, influenced by its proximity to Mexico, and its strong ties to military, biotech, and tourism industries—all while retaining the easygoing coastal charm that makes it one of California’s most beloved destinations.

Itinerary:

Arrival: Sunday, June 15 10:00am(Please allow time for port clearance)

Departure: Tuesday, June 17 All aboard: 6pm  Sail away: 7pm

June Weather

• Average Temps: 65°F to 75°F (18–24°C)
• Sunrise/Sunset: ~5:40 AM / ~8:00 PM
• What to Wear:
  • Light layers and sun protection by day
  • A sweater or light jacket for the evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandal

Address of Broadway Pier:

1000 N Harbor Drive, San Diego CA

Near the Pier:

The San Diego Cruise Terminal is centrally located on B Street Pier, right in Downtown San Diego. The location couldn’t be better—you can walk to many attractions right from the ship.

About ½ mile from the ship to the port gate

About 1 mile from Town Center

Nearest Shop/Pharmacy: Rite Aid – 1411 Kettner Blvd

Nearest ATM: Bank of America – 655 W Broadway STE 101

Right off the ship, you’ll find:

• Walking Tour (Pay what you want) 10am daily at 222 Fifth Ave
• USS Midway Museum – A retired aircraft carrier turned interactive museum, just a short walk away.
• Seaport Village – A waterfront shopping and dining area with boutiques, street performers, and ocean views.
• Waterfront Park – A relaxing green space with fountains, sculptures, and great views of the harbor.
• Maritime Museum of San Diego – Featuring historic vessels like the Star of India.

Getting Around:

• Walking: Little Italy, the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and Waterfront Park are all within a 10–20 minute walk.
• Public Transit: The San Diego Trolley (light rail) has nearby stops and is a great way to access Old Town, Balboa Park, and even the border with Mexico.
• Ride Shares & Taxis: Readily available and affordable.
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Trolley: These sightseeing buses stop near the cruise terminal and are an easy way to get oriented with the city.
• Bike and scooter rentals throughout the area.

Public Transportation

WAYS TO PAY

• Local Busses $2.50
• There are multiple ways to purchase fares and get you everywhere you need to go around San Diego. The PRONTO card and app allow users to add funds instantly, and then buy a ticket when needed with a simple tap of the card or phone at a station kiosk. One-way fares are valid for unlimited transfers within two hours of activation, and PRONTO also lets you earn as you go toward a day pass on the Trolley or buses. Download the PRONTO app at the Apple or Google Play stores, or pick up a card at retail outlets, the MTS Transit Store (at 12th and Imperial avenues), NCTD customer service centers or ticket vending machines. You can also pay for transit with a contactless debit or credit card, or a contactless mobile wallet or wearable devices. Contactless card or mobile-device payments are only valid for one-way adult fares. Learn everything else you need to know about fares here: https://www.sdmts.com/fares/pronto-ways-pay

BUSES

• An economical way to navigate through San Diego is by bus. There are plenty of routes that offer service throughout the county. Be sure to check schedules and plan your routes in advance.
• For bus schedules and information, visit https://www.sdmts.com

SAN DIEGO TROLLEY

• If you’re staying in and around downtown San Diego, the iconic bright red trolley will take you in and around the city. The San Diego Trolley provides convenient services from key locations downtown, including the Santa Fe Depot and the San Diego Convention Center, crisscrossing through downtown and out to various locations like Old Town, Mission Valley, El Cajon, Santee and San Ysidro, which is on the Mexican border. The new UC San Diego Blue Line trolley extension also expands service northward to Clairemont, the UCSD/La Jolla area and the Westfield UTC shopping center.
• For trolley schedules and information, visit https://www.sdmts.com

SPRINTER

• The east-west SPRINTER light rail train system that connects Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos and Escondido. The 22-mile long rail system runs along the Highway 78 corridor, serving 15 stations, and running every 30 minutes. Adult one-way fares are inexpensive and children aged 5 and under ride free. A regional day pass, valid on the SPRINTER, Trolley and buses throughout the county, is also available.
• For SPRINTER schedules and information, visit https://gonctd.com/services/sprinter/

COASTER

• The North County Transit District’s COASTER trains connect downtown San Diego and Old Town with coastal communities throughout the county including Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad and Oceanside. These trains offer visitors car-free access to some of the most charming beach communities in the region, as well as a relaxing ride with breathtaking coastal scenery. There are more than 20 trains that run on weekdays with additional service on weekends. The entire COASTER route from Oceanside to the Santa Fe Depot downtown takes about an hour. An adult round-trip fare from downtown San Diego to Oceanside is inexpensive and children aged 5 and under ride for free.
• For COASTER schedules and information, visit https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/

PEDICABS

• Pedicabs are popular forms of transportation along downtown’s waterfront and in the Gaslamp Quarter. There are tours available as well, providing a unique way to explore San Diego’s downtown communities.

Witnessing:

Historic Gaslamp Quarter

• Distance: 10–15 min walk or 5 min ride
• Cobblestone streets, Victorian-era buildings, and a modern twist of boutiques, restaurants, and galleries. Ideal for strolling, people-watching, or grabbing brunch.
• Visit: https://gaslamp.org
• Don’t Miss: Horton Plaza Park, rooftop bars, and live entertainment.

Balboa Park & San Diego Zoo

Balboa Park in San Diego is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park that includes 18 museums, beautiful gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Zoo is located within Balboa Park and houses over 3,500 animals of 650 species and subspecies. Balboa Park is a popular destination for visitors and residents alike. 

• Distance: 10–15 min drive
• Consider a half-day or full-day excursion.
• Visit: https://balboapark.org
• Highlights:
  • Museum of Us
  • Botanical Building & Lily Pond
  • Spreckels Organ Pavilion (Concert 2pm Sunday)

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

• Distance: 10–12 min drive
• The birthplace of California! Explore preserved 1800s buildings, enjoy authentic Mexican food, shop for handmade crafts.
• Recommended Stop: Café Coyote for margaritas and hand-rolled tortillas.

Take the Ferry to Coronado Island (which is a peninsula not an island)

• Access: 5–10 min via ferry or ride over the bridge
• Upscale island with a classic resort vibe.
• Do:
  • Stroll along Coronado Beach, one of the best in the U.S.
  • Visit the historic Hotel del Coronado
  • Rent a bike and explore the scenic bayfront

Learning:

For museums and cultural sites:

• USS Midway Museum – Learn about naval aviation aboard this floating museum. Visit: https://www.midway.org
• Maritime Museum – Offers a hands-on look at ships from various eras, including submarines and tall ships.
• San Diego Museum of Art and Museum of Us in Balboa Park – Excellent collections and exhibits.
• San Diego Air & Space Museum – Also located in Balboa Park. Open Daily from 10am to 4:30pm
• Women’s Museum of California – San Diego

Visitors to the museum can explore:

• Rotating exhibitions on topics like women in wartime, suffrage, civil rights, or modern leadership.
• A permanent collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents.
• Public programs including lectures, film screenings, panel discussions, and educational workshops.
• The San Diego County Women’s Hall of Fame, honoring local women whose work has made a significant impact in their fields.

• Old Town San Diego – Considered the first European settlement in California, it offers historical reenactments, shops, and Mexican heritage.
• Chicano Park – A vibrant area filled with large-scale murals celebrating Mexican-American culture and activism.

Exploring:

• La Jolla – A little farther afield, but well worth it for its stunning coastline, sea caves, and chance to see seals and sea lions lounging on the rocks.
• While most tourist websites rave about The Cove in La Jolla, locals say skip the smelly seals and head south towards Windansea. The rock formations provide the same stunning views without the crowds and animal odors.
• Just about any hike in San Diego comes with stunning views and enjoyable trails. Potato Chip Rock is a favorite for those wanting a quirky photo—dangling off the edge of that wafer-thin ledge—but locals prefer to skip the crowds and head to Eagle Rock instead. It’s a bit farther from the city, but you still get that iconic photo op (yes, it really does look like an eagle), without the long lines.
• And while Torrey Pines might seem like a tourist trap, don’t be fooled—it’s genuinely beloved by locals. The sweeping ocean views are not to be missed!
• Point Loma is one of San Diego’s most scenic and historic coastal neighborhoods. It’s a rugged peninsula that juts out into the Pacific, forming the western edge of San Diego Bay. This is where the first European expedition landed on the West Coast in 1542, led by Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo—a fact commemorated at the Cabrillo National Monument, one of the area’s top attractions.
• Cabrillo National Monument – From this clifftop perch, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean, downtown San Diego, and Coronado Island. Walk along the Bayside Trail, explore tide pools (at low tide), or step inside the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, built in 1855.
• Point Loma is also a departure point for many of San Diego’s boat excursions. The San Diego Bay side of Point Loma, particularly around Shelter Island and America’s Cup Harbor, is home to marinas offering a range of water-based experiences.
• Sunsets at Sunset Cliffs – One of the most dramatic places to watch the sun dip below the Pacific.

Discovery:

Recommendations from a Local, John Thomas:

If you dare, wander across San Diego’s historic Spruce Street Suspension Bridge which sways 70 feet above Sessions Canyon. (Near San Diego Zoo)

Go San Diego Pub Crawling in a Motorcycle with a Sidecar. Check out close-by Black’s Beach, strictly clothing optional! Visit: https://sidecartoursinc.com/san-diego/ (Also listed on Groupon)

Visit the Mt. Palomar observatory with its giant 200-inch reflecting telescope, one of the largest of its kind in the world. Open daily from 9am to 3:30pm. Visit: https://sites.astro.caltech.edu/palomar/visitor/

Don’t miss the fabulous San Diego Air and Space Museum which is close to where Charles Lindberg’s “Spirit of St. Louis” was built;

Located in Balboa Park

Open Daily from 10am to 4:30pm

Visit the U.S. Navy’s Marine Mammal Program and watch while they train dolphins and sea lions to provide harbor security and explosive mine detection. 

Visiting the Marine Mammal Center:

• Free Admission: Entry is free, but tickets must be booked online in advance. 
• Open Sunday-Monday: The center is open to the public on Sundays and Mondays from 10 am to 4 pm. 
• Location: The center is located at 2000 Bunker Road at Fort Cronkhite in the Marin Headlands near Sausalito. 
• Accessibility: The facility is ADA accessible, and service animals are welcome. 
• Vaccination Requirement: Visitors ages 12+ must present proof of full vaccination upon entry. 
• Parking: Parking spaces are limited and located in front of the center. 
• Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for an enhanced visitor experience and are highly recommended. 
• Seeing Patients: Visitors can observe the marine mammals being cared for in the hospital. 
• Education: The center offers educational exhibits and programs for all ages. 

Hidden Gems:

Sunny Jim Cave Store – Behind this beachfront shop lies a spectacular, colorful sea cave with an equally colorful past

Whaley House – San Diego’s most historic and haunted home

Lucha Libre Taco Shop – Lucha Libre (Mexican Wrestling) themed taco shop.

1895 Looff Carousel – One of the few remaining carousels built by master amusement park carver Charles ID Loof

Villa Montezuma – A magnificent, reportedly haunted mansion built for a composer by Spiritualists

Zoro Garden – Swarms of butterflies cannot compare to the awe inspired by the publicly-funded nakedness once displayed in this sunken garden

Bali Hito – The tiniest tiki room in San Diego

Fathom Bistro, Balt and Tackle  – Get fishing gear and craft beer at this restaurant on the pier – I’m a sucker for a rhyme.

PSA Flight 182 Crash Site – An inconspicuous suburban street corner is the site of San Diego’s worst air disaster

Abandoned Freeway Stub on State Route 163 – The freeway that never was

Miniature Taco Bell

San Diego Model Railroad Museum – North America’s largest accredited model railroad museum

San Diego Police Department Jail Cells and Police Exhibit – at this local mall, visitors are ushered through a 1940’s jail exhibit

Yiddishland California – The Yiddish language stages a renaissance in a shtetl-inspired cultural center on the San Diego coast

The Girl in the Red Shoes – A statue based on a tragic Japanese nursery rhyme, commemorating San Diego’s sisterhood with Yokohama

Tasting:

San Diego’s food scene is diverse, inventive, and delicious:

• Mexican Cuisine – Don’t miss out on fish tacos, California burritos, or street-style carne asada.
• Little Italy – One of the best Italian neighborhoods in the U.S., and walkable from the pier.
• Craft Beer – San Diego is a craft beer capital. Ballast Point, Stone Brewing, and Modern Times are just a few local favorites.
• Seaport Village and the Embarcadero – Offer everything from fine dining to casual ocean-view bites.

Liberty Station Public Market

• A converted naval base turned into a gourmet food hall and artisan market. Free art galleries and peaceful walkways.

Nightlife:

Whether you’re into jazz, Latin rhythms, rock, or DJ sets under the stars, San Diego’s nightlife is alive and vibrant.

• Music Box (Little Italy): Multi-level venue featuring indie bands and well-known acts. Kid Francescoli plays at 8pm on June 16^th. Visit: https://musicboxsd.com/event/14392523/kid-francescoli/ for tickets.
• Casbah (Midtown): Iconic dive-bar-style venue for rock, indie, and local musicians. Visit: https://www.casbahmusic.com/calendar/ to see events and purchase tickets.
• House of Blues (Downtown): Great for soul, funk, blues, and gospel brunches. MARQ is playing at 7pm on June 16^th.

Rooftop Bars & Lounges

• ALTITUDE Sky Lounge (Gaslamp): Overlooks Petco Park—great views and cocktails.
• Born & Raised Rooftop (Little Italy): Art deco steakhouse with a stylish rooftop bar.
• The Nolen (Downtown): Craft cocktails and skyline views with a chic vibe.

Latin & Jazz Nights

• Café Sevilla (Gaslamp): Flamenco shows, tapas, and Latin dance.
• Prohibition Lounge (Gaslamp): Speakeasy with live jazz and craft cocktails.

Write Out Loud

The San Diego-based organization Write Out Loud hosts dynamic storytelling events that truly bring literature to life. Professional actors perform dramatic readings of stories, poems, and theatrical works, captivating audiences with passion, precision, and flair.

Beloved by locals, Write Out Loud makes the written word feel accessible, emotional, and alive. Whether you’re a devoted literature fan or simply curious to try something new, their performances offer a refreshing way to engage with San Diego’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

7:00 PM • June 16
Old Town Theatre
4040 Twiggs Avenue, San Diego, CA 92110

Visit: writeoutloudsd.com

Conclusion

San Diego is more than just a stopover—it’s a city that balances culture, nature, history, and modern California cool. Whether you want to relax at the waterfront, learn something new, explore the neighborhoods, or eat your way through tacos and gelato, San Diego is ready to impress.

So grab your walking shoes, your camera, and your appetite—this city is made for discovering.