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San Diego, California

A fusion of beautiful beaches, vibrant Mexican influence and world class attractions

Discover San Diego

Happiness is calling in San Diego, California. Less than two hours south of LA is the 8th largest US city, San Diego, a fusion of beautiful beaches, vibrant Mexican influence, world class attractions and 100 distinct neighbourhoods with a laid-back local vibe. San Diego is a modern and sophisticated city with postcard-perfect weather – averaging 22 degrees year-round – sunny San Diego is the perfect escape for Aussies looking for a quintessential luxury SoCal experience. Here’s our travel guide to get you started.

Stay at Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Stay at Kona Kai Resort & Spa

During your visit to San Diego, Kona Kai Resort & Spa has all you need for an enjoyable stay. Located in San Diego’s Point Loma Peninsula, guests can enjoy staying in the newly renovated suites which offer spectacular views near Point Loma Hillside or San Diego Bay. Each has oversized balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Enjoy a simple day outdoors with the family at its private beach, or head to the Tiki Bar or new Adult Pool.

While in Point Loma, dive into San Diego’s California history at Cabrillo National Monument, a tribute to explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo who led the brave expedition in 1542.The monument—with panoramic views of the bay and ocean—is also home to the Point Loma Lighthouse and is the access point to some of San Diego’s most impressive tide pools.

Take a trip to Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo

Take a trip to Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo

Balboa Park is a magnificent cultural oasis that includes 17 museums, tranquil gardens and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is the largest urban cultural park in the United States and a must see on any visit to San Diego. Located just blocks from downtown San Diego hotels, the park has a rich history reflected through stunning architecture, art installations, and cultural events throughout the year.

Visit the Spanish Village Art Center which depicts a charming old village in Spain: it’s one of the oldest art communities on the West Coast and is a popular art destination for a group of 200 artists 37 studios. Take a walk around the Japanese Friendship Garden, explore the magnificent architecture of the California Tower or take the kids for a fun trip to San Diego Zoo.

San Diego Zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals of 800 rare and exotic species in a beautiful 100 acre tropical garden. It pioneered the concept of open-air, cageless exhibits that recreate natural animal habitats.

The San Diego Zoo offers a unique walking experience that exhibits animals in the most natural way possible, adding shows and animal presentations throughout the day for additional enjoyment. To tour around the area, enjoy a guided tour on a double-decker bus or an aerial view from Skyfari. To make your visit even more exciting, book one of our special tours like Animals in Action where you can meet the animal ambassadors up close, learn about the Zoo’s conservation work and see what goes on behind the scenes.

Check out San Diego’s Delicious Cuisine and Beer Scene through this Neighbourhood tour

Check out San Diego’s Delicious Cuisine and Beer Scene through this Neighbourhood tour

Taco lovers – take note! Due to its close proximity to Mexico, San Diego is home to the unique Cali Baja cuisine: a fusion of the traditional Mexican and Mediterranean influences associated with Mexico’s Baja Peninsula and the abundant, fresh produce of Southern California.

Carnitas’ Snack Shack is one of the top favourite downtown restaurants in San Diego for its tasty pork sandwiches, tacos and craft beer. Located at Embarcadero, blocks away from San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter, you can enjoy delicious tacos while taking views of San Diego’s harbour and impressive ship fleet including the U.S.S Midway – the largest ship in the world until 1955 and now a popular museum for all ages.

Take a glimpse into San Diego’s history at Old Town San Diego. Old Town marks the site of the first Spanish settlement on the U.S. West Coast and features 12 acres of Mexican lore and historical sites, colourful shops, early-California-style restaurants, museums, a theatre and the newly restored Comsopolitan Hotel & Restaurant. If you’re looking for a great dinner option, Cafe Coyote, located in the heart of Old Town San Diego’s Historic Walking District, is one of San Diego’s Landmark Restaurants and has remained this way for over 29 years. Friendly staff, loyal patrons and delicious Mexican food and a festive atmosphere have contributed to Café Coyote being voted Best Mexican Restaurant in Old Town in 15 years in a row!

Visit the “Jewel” of San Diego, La Jolla. A Mediterranean style village with a dramatic coastline with breathtaking ocean view, culture and high-end shopping, and a strikingly beautiful setting complemented by endless outdoor recreational activities due to its location. Be sure to reserve a table at Puesto La Jolla. Sitting just two blocks from the magnificent La Jolla Cove, Puesto’s bright murals, exhibition kitchen and delicious smells invite you in. Enjoy award-winning La Jolla tacos which are made from scratch every day.

In between enjoying all the tacos, check out Waypoint Public, which is situated in San Diego’s North Park neighbourhood. Waypoint Public is a family friendly, chef-driven, beer restaurant with a foundation rooted in re-investing in the community. Through ‘Give Back’ Tuesdays, supporting craft beer and spirits, participating in local events and using local farm produce, Waypoint Public is focused on bringing guests quality.

And did you know, San Diego has a reputation as the Craft Beer Capital of America It boasts more than 150 craft breweries with several located within a mile of San Diego’s 70-mile stretch of coastline. Be sure to check some of these out!

Immerse Yourself at Liberty Public Market

Immerse Yourself at Liberty Public Market

Set in a 1920s-era naval base commissary in San Diego’s burgeoning Liberty Station neighbourhood, Liberty Public Market brings over 30 local artisans and retailers to one open 25,000-square-foot-space. Liberty Public Market first opened in 2016 as San Diego's first 7-day a week public market

Here you can explore, taste and experience our diverse fare of offerings from over 30 carefully selected artisan vendors. It also runs a number of local events, including a Live Music series on the lively, dog-friendly market patio every Sunday from 1pm-4pm. Additionally, in support of the Arts District Liberty Station, the market’s walls proudly feature art by local artists.

Getting There

American Airlines state of the art Dreamliner aircraft departs from Sydney to Los Angeles; with 10 connecting flights daily through to San Diego.

Our Dreamliner offers Flagship™ Business, Premium Economy, Main Cabin Extra, and Main Cabin. With AC power outlets, USB’s, and international Wi-Fi, you can stay connected all the way to the USA.