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SURF’S UP!! Take a (Southern California) dream holiday to San Diego

Sun, sand and surf on the Southern Californian coast – and we're not talking Malibu or the OC – it's time to take a trip to San Diego.

Sun, sand and surf on the Southern Californian coast – and we’re not talking Malibu or the OC – it’s time to take a trip to San Diego.

San Diego is a surfer’s perfect getaway, a beachside hub where you can hit the waves, grab some of the best Mexican food north of the border – and then wash it all down with a glass of killer craft beer.

Time seems to go a little slower on the sun coast, moving to the beat of a different drum; unless you choose to ramp things up a bit by visiting some of the local attractions. And San Diego is an easy drive or a quick flight from the hub of LAX. San Diego is a fusion of beautiful beaches, vibrant Mexican influence, world-class attractions including the USS Midway Museum and 100 district neighbourhoods with a local laid-back Southern Californian vibe.

Here are the most fun things to do in San Diego:

 

Get on board

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You can’t resist the surf in San Diego, so grab a board and jump in, the water’s fine. In fact, the warm weather, super-consistent surf quality and beach lovers making the most of the coast are a key part of any visit.

The gem of the San Diego coast is La Jolla beach – which actually means The Jewel – and what a sparkling treasure it is. The surf break here is huge and is not for beginners but there is plenty to do on dry land; wander the tidal pools, head to the local fish market or just watch the surfers taking a spill.

If you are new to surfing try the beach at Oceanside where the easy waves are matched by the easy-going locals hanging out in the beachside diners and cafes.

 

Take your taste buds south of the border

Given its proximity to Mexico, it is not surprising that the big draw in San Diego for foodies is the city’s authentic tacos – made with fresh corn and stuffed with beef barbacoa – burritos and tamales. This is Mexican done right, a far cry from the Tex-Mex mash-up in other parts of the state.

Whether you dine at an award-winning restaurant like Puesto, known for its ceviche and range of mescal, or grab-and-go at one of the city’s many food trucks this is the place for taco-lovers.

 

It’s a gas, gas, gas: party at SD’s attractions

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The city’s Gaslamp Quarter has packed the historic Victorian buildings with food, fun and dancing making this district an “urban playground” where you can hit a nightclub, catch some live music or even see some stand-up; and it is all accessible by the famous trolley cars.

Kids will go ape (and tiger, lemur and panda) for the San Diego Zoo which is fighting hard to help end extinction for animals in the wild. Behind the world-class exhibits is a serious side where the keepers and wildlife experts are fighting to save the planet; check out the San Diego Safari Park which focuses on African animals.

Balboa Park will get the kid’s heads spinning with 16 museums – like the Fleet Science Center and the San Diego Automotive Museum – in the grounds of this huge park as well as venues, food and drink and nature trails to explore.

 

Join the race to visit San Diego

SoCal

There’s no better time to book your clients a San Diego experience than now – start booking and earn those bonus points for your spot on the Qantas Holidays Race Around.

Now in its 4th year, the Qantas Holidays Race Around will see 40 Agents heading to SoCal in September for a six-day trip.

 

San Diego is on sale with Viva! Holidays

SoCal

Book your clients a SoCal adventure today, 2 nights from $189 per person twin share, for selected travel dates from 6 April 2018 – 31 March 2019. Offer Ends 1 June 18, unless sold out prior. Availability is limited.

For more information contact Qantas Holidays or check out the Southern California Dreaming deals.

READ: 10 things to do in California’s Lake Tahoe

READ: KarryOn launches digital destination guide for California

What is your dream SoCal getaway?

Written by Paul Chai, KarryOn contributor

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