Archive for April 2007

If you're looking to get a glimpse of some Pacific Gray Whales, head out to Cabrillo National Monument for some great viewing opportunities.

The best time to spot the Pacific Gray Whale is during their migration season - from January through March. If you're up there during that time, take a short hike along the Bayside Trail up to the New Point Loma Lighthouse; the whale overlook is located just south of the lighthouse.

There is much more to see than just whales at Cabrillo National Monument. You can also enjoy picturesque views of the harbor, San Diego skyline, and of course - the Pacific Ocean. While you're there, head over to the Visitor Center and learn about the history behind Cabrillo. The Visitor Center at Cabrillo National Monument offers exhibits, films, and guided tours.

If you're arriving by vehicle, there is a charge of $5. Walk-ins, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are charged only $3. Your entrance fee is good for seven days so come back as often as you like.

Romance, much like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. One person's candlelit evening can just as easily be another person's 3 hour hike.

Therefore, when you're the one in charge of setting up that romantic date, it is important to know the person you are planning for. When you're in San Diego, the romantic date ideas are as diverse as the city itself.

Romantic Dinner

If dinner in a fabulous setting is your style then consider trying the restaurant that locals have just recently voted as their city's top romantic spot. The Prado at Balboa Park has been a trump card of love since 1915. Located in the historic Hospitality Building in the heart of Balboa Park, The Prado boasts some of the most savory cuisine in town. Customers that rave suggest taking a walk around the park with your sweetie beforehand to build a healthy appetite! (Something to note: if things go well, the Prado has also been hosting wedding ceremonies and receptions since 1935).

San Diego Adventures

If adventure is your middle name and the route you plan to woo, check out some of the activities held at the world famous San Diego Zoo. You can live out your Jane and Tarzan fantasy in style. The Skyfari Aerial Tram runs from 10am to 4:15pm and gently soars over the zoo with unique views of not only the animals but the extensive botanical gardens below. Plus kids under 8 must be with adults so the chances of an ankle biter upstaging your jungle call are slim.

The Gaslamp Quarter

Perhaps you see yourself as more of an old school dater. Someone that would like to show of their knowledge of history and architecture. If that's you then bring your date some walking shoes and get yourself over to the Gaslamp Quarter. By day you can marvel at the stunning Victorian era buildings and at night you can stop by one of the many restaurants that make up the city's "liveliest neighborhood".

The Spa

Of course there are some of us whose idea of a dream date includes luxury and pampering. If that sounds more like your angle then a visit to one of the many spas in San Diego. One that gets top marks for being couple friendly is Spa Veila, which offers a wide variety of spa services.

Because of the great weather in San Diego, there is a never-ending supply of fun dates ideas to go on in the city.

Balboa Park offers fifteen museums for you to explore with a date. There is also beautiful architecture and you can often catch a live performance from professional musicians. It is a great place just to get a cold drink from one of the many vendors and walk around. Balboa park often features special events at the museums, such as new IMAX shows.

San Diego offers two great places to view animals. The first is the world famous San Diego Zoo, which is always a fun date idea for any animal lover. You can also visit the Wild Animal Park. Here you can view animals in a simulated natural environment. If you arrange it ahead of time, you can take a special tour right into the habitat and feed the animals.

Do you like being near the water? San Diego has beautiful beaches which you can visit almost year round. There are hundreds of restaurants located right on the sand. There are places to bike and roller blade together. If you know how to surf, San Diego is a great place for it. If not, why not take a lesson for two?

Another fun date idea is to go to the San Diego Civic Center. They have year-round Broadway musical touring companies performing, and the prices are very reasonable. San Diego is also home to a large number of smaller theater companies, so if you enjoy the performing arts, there is an endless supply of shows you can take in.

If you head downtown by the airport, you will be able to see a wide variety of docked ships. There are many Navy ships, but San Diego also is a busy cruise port. You can head out for a longer cruise on one of the major cruise lines, but there are also popular dinner and dancing cruises departing each night. You should definitely spring for a whale-watching cruise. If you do not see a whale on your trip, you will receive a free pass to come back and try again. You will also be able to purchase a picture taken as your board the boat as a reminder of your special day.

San Diego is also home to Sea World. Sea World is great fun for adults and kids alike. If you want to embrace your inner child, check out LEGOLAND. You will not believe the amazing LEGO creations on display. LEGOLAND is specially designed for children up to age 12, so this makes a great spot to go if you or your date has children.

If you are into sports, you're in luck. San Diego is home to the Padres baseball team and the the San Diego Chargers. If you are looking for something a little different, check out the San Diego Gulls (Ice Hockey) or the San Diego Spirit (soccer).

San Diego is a great place for a fun date with that special someone.