A few weeks ago, friends of ours tied the knot in San Diego. My husband and I just love destination weddings as it gives us the perfect excuse to travel. San Diego, in particular, was very exciting for us because we have several friends and family members who live there!

Although this trip was packed to the brim with wedding activities and quality family time, we were able to experience a few local favorites that I have to share!

La Valencia Hotel

The bride and groom had a room block at the La Valencia Hotel. (When we attend weddings, I typically book a room within the block to get the best rate and be closest to all the wedding festivities.) This boutique hotel is stunning. If you don’t end up staying at this hotel, I recommend stopping by for their weekend brunch or after dinner for a dessert cocktail called The Whaler. *The hotel’s pastry chef makes this cocktail and she leaves around 9 pm. Unfortunately, we were unable to try it, but it was recommended to us by several people.

I upgraded our room to a suite due to the length of our stay. With my husband’s hectic work schedule, we spend a lot of time in our hotel rooms. Space is key.

The one thing we didn’t love about this hotel was the lack of outlets in the room. I swear – there were hardly any! We had to ask for an extension cord. Lol.

Richard Walker’s Pancake House

Richard Walker’s is known for their incredible coffee. I thought the coffee was coffee… haha, but I’m definitely no coffee connoisseur. This place has a rather large, old school diner type of menu, but everything we ordered was fabulous. My personal favorite was the baked apple pancake! I had to order it because I had never heard of BAKED pancakes before!

Cody’s

Another awesome breakfast/brunch spot is Cody’s. When I asked the waiter what he recommended he instantly said the Awesome French Toast – literally what it’s called. With a name like that, he didn’t have to sell me too hard. It really was awesome.

Kettner Exchange

My husband’s fabulous aunt and uncle planned dinner for us at Kettner Exchange. They always find such amazing restaurants for us to try. This place did not disappoint. The cocktails were creative and delicious. I ordered the duck meatball and the A-5 Beef. The A-5 Beef was OUTSTANDING. Unfortunately, on their website I’m not seeing that item listed, but if you go and see it on the menu… order it!!!

It should be noted that this is a see and be seen place. Around 9 pm, the atmosphere shifts and the outdoor rooftop patio turns up.

PB Shore Club

The bride and groom hosted a welcome party at Shore Club. It’s an interesting place… haha. It’s right on the beach, which is awesome. There are gorgeous views from their outdoor terrace. It’s one of those places that draws a younger crowd and has sticky floors, but is always a great time. You know what I mean? Rumor has it they have goldfish races too. I don’t know how I feel about that… but we love that it’s a Wisconsin bar! Go Bucky!

Watch the Seals and Sea Lions

When we had a little bit of down time, Chris and I just strolled along La Jolla Cove. You will see an abundance of seal and sea lions just living their best lives on the beach. It’s definitely a must see.