Jul 06 2022

I Scream, You Scream… ICE CREAM!

Treat Yourself to Some Gourmet Ice Cream

As we head towards summer and the weather begins to warm up in San Diego, it’s officially ice cream season. But really, when isn’t it a good time to treat yourself to a scoop or two? There’s no shortage of frosty treats to be found around town, from creatively-flavored small-batch ice cream to creamy gelato, so cool down with a sweet frozen dessert at one of these local spots.

JoJo’s Creamery – Encinitas Lumberyard

937 S Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
With flavors like Bananas Foster, Cayenne Sea Salt Caramel, and Lemon Berry Shortbread, you’ll be wowed by this artisanal homemade ice cream. Cute bonus: each ice cream comes with a free mini cookie. Plenty of vegan and GF options!
JoJo’s Creamery

Salt & Straw – One Paseo

3705 Caminito Court, Suite 0580, Carmel Valley, CA 92130
For the adventurous ice cream connoisseur, Salt & Straw brings you unique flavors like Deviled Egg Custard with Smoked Black Tea and Baked Brie & Fig Cheesecake ice cream. For those with a more classic taste, there’s Double Fold Vanilla, Chocolate Gooey Brownie, and the surprising Arbequina Olive Oil.
Salt & Straw

An’s Hatmakers – Del Mar Village

1555 Camino Del Mar, Suite 115 Del Mar, CA 92014
Handmade gelato named after hat styles? It’s a yes from An’s, where flavors include Straw Hat (vegan sorbet with mango and passion fruit), Panama (a cinnamon roll in gelato form) and Fluff (wildflower honey swirled with blueberry marmalade). The shop has an aesthetic that takes you back to a 1920s art deco hat shop.
An’s Hatmakers

Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream – Encinitas

90 N Coast Hwy 101, Suite 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
For a more classic take on the ice cream shop, head over to Cali Cream. They feature over 55 homemade flavors daily. Try the Peach Ice Cream, Salty Carmel Truffle or Almond Joy. Grab a scoop and walk down to Moonlight Beach.
Cali Cream Ice Cream

Ice cream not your thing? Here’s a must try…

Crumbl Cookies – Del Mar Heights

2646 Del Mar Heights Rd, Del Mar, California 92014
Tik Tok famous Crumbl Cookies has a menu that rotates weekly with 5 different specialty flavors to enjoy. This week Crumbl has Buttermilk Pancake, Snickerdoodle Cupcake, and Lemon Blackberry cookies on the menu, but the famous Milk Chocolate Chip cookies are always available.
Crumbl Cookies

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Apr 29 2022

DAY TRIP: Point Loma

History, Views, Nature, Marinas… Point Loma!

Point Loma is a peninsula in the city of San Diego which includes Ocean Beach, Liberty Station, Harbor Island, and Shelter Island. It is known as the place “where California began” since it is the landing place of the first European expedition to come ashore in 1542. Great restaurants, activities, and stunning views of downtown San Diego’s skyline await you.

OLD POINT LOMA LIGHTHOUSE

Completed in 1855, the lighthouse is 422 above sea level.The lighthouse served for 36 years until it was realized that it’s elevation was subject to fog, low clouds and marine layer. On foggy nights the lighthouse keeper would sometimes discharge a shotgun to warn ships away. A new Point Loma Light Station (Point Loma Light) was established at a lower elevation in 1891 and still operates today. In October 1913, a presidential proclamation set aside the 1/2 acre of ground surrounding the lighthouse as Cabrillo National Monument. The monument was turned over to the National Park Service in1933.
When you arrive at Cabrillo National Monument, take a self-guided tour of the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and visit three different exhibit rooms renovated to reflect it’s original 1850s splendor. You may also see the wonders of the tidepools during the winter months, hike the Bayside Trail or just enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the city of San Diego.
More Info about Cabrillo National Monument

Fun Fact! The New Point Loma Lighthouse, located near Cabrillo National Monument, is the setting of Viper’s house in the movie Top Gun.

SHELTER ISLAND

First recorded as a “mudbank,” visible only at low tide, Shelter Island is not an island but is connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. It was built up into dry land using material dredged from the bay in 1934 and developed in the 1950s.
Per a special city overlay zone, all buildings on Shelter Island are supposed to follow a “Polynesian” theme, which was very popular in the 1950s when the area was first developed and attracted a concentration of multiple exotically themed restaurants and “tiki bars.” Still operating since 1954, the famous Bali Hai Restaurant has a tiki bar and its own yacht dock.

The Half Moon Inn, with its attached Humphrey’s restaurant and summer concert venue, also retains a Polynesian theme. Humphrey’s Concerts are a unique and wonderful experience. Situated right on the bay, the intimate 1,450 seat venue features international performances with an incredible backdrop of sunsets and moored sailboats.
Shelter Island is known as a destination for superyachts because it contains one of the few marinas in San Diego Bay with a deep enough harbor for these oversized vessels.

Fun Fact! Point Loma hosts the biggest sport fishing fleet in Southern California.

LIBERTY STATION

Liberty Station was built upon naval roots and was originally the Naval Training Center (NTC) that opened in 1923. NTC transitioned into Liberty Station and became a cultural hub of art, leisure, and history—creating a timeless destination. Today, Liberty Station is San Diego’s signature neighborhood, inviting residents, the community and visitors to connect through events and experiences while discovering and exploring all of Liberty Station’s offerings. The neighborhood features an array of boutiques and shops, over 70 local galleries in the ARTS DISTRICT, and dozens of delectable dining spots. Built by design, Liberty Station creates an authentic experience—encompassing beautifully landscaped promenades, restored historic buildings that have been preserved for today’s commerce, storied corridors, historic landmarks, and spacious plazas.

Be sure to head to Stone Brewery for lunch where you can sit at a table where the US Navy mess hall once was or play bocce ball while you enjoy a famous Stone IPA.
Visit Liberty Station

Fun Fact! During the 1920s there was a dirt airstrip known as Dutch Flats in what is now the Midway neighborhood of Point Loma. That is where Charles Lindbergh first tested and flew his airplane, The Spirit of St. Louis, which had been built in San Diego by the Ryan Aeronautical Company.

SUNSET CLIFFS

Sunset can’t be beat at Sunset Cliffs. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a 68-acre regional park which extends 1½ miles along the Point Loma peninsula’s western shoreline. This unique coastal environment features expansive ocean views, dramatic cliff and rock formations, and caves, and a fascinating intertidal area, which provides connectivity to the adjacent Point Loma Ecological Reserve.
With its rugged coastline and panoramic views, this area is popular with surfers, ocean-gazers, and folks who like to cruise Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, which offers breathtaking views and the most amazing sunsets that you will ever see.
Fun Fact! Sunset Cliffs has 120,000 year old sandstone on the top layer, known as the Bay Point Formation. The 75-million year old darker shale and sandstone mix in the deeper layers, is known as the Point Loma Formation, and contains dinosaur fossils from the Cretaceous Period.

Apr 19 2022

DAY TRIP: Del Mar

Del Mar History

Colonel Jacob Taylor purchased 338 acres of beautiful coastline in 1885 with visions of building a seaside resort. Del Mar (“Of the Sea”) incorporated in 1959.

First renowned during the golden era of the movie industry, Del Mar was the retreat for Hollywood’s biggest movie stars who came to enjoy its peaceful ambiance, pristine beaches, and exhilarating thoroughbred horseracing.

Not much has changed since the 50’s. Del Mar is still a hot destination for vacationers and celebrities alike.

Where the Turf Meets the Surf

In 1937, Bing Crosby greeted the first fan through the gate at Del Mar Race Track. The well known Seabiscuit – Ligaroti match was held in 1938 with the famous “by a nose” finish. The 40’s mark a heyday with celebrities like Ava Gardner, Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, and Red Skelton cheering on the thoroughbreds. Today, race fans can compete in an opening day hat contest or attend a Friday Night Concert aside from placing bets or just enjoying the horses.

Summer Season – July 22 – Sept 11
Bing Crosby Season – Nov 11 – Dec 4

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club

Del Mar Village

Along Camino Del Mar (aka Highway 101) you’ll find Del Mar Village. This beach side town touts award-winning cuisine, unique shops and outstanding views. Dog friendly beaches are the icing on the cake for this upscale community.

Be sure to make reservations at Poseidon Restaurant on the beach or Pacifica Del Mar at sunset for dinner with an ocean view.

Shop at Del Mar Plaza for boutiques and coast-inspired decor while savoring the open-air ocean view plaza.

Visit Del Mar Village

FUN FACT: Desi Arnaz maintained a residence in North Del Mar on the beach west of Highway 101 near the Del Mar Racetrack after his divorce from Lucille Ball. He was arrested once for brandishing a firearm and ordering people off of his beach area. He resided there until his death.

Torrey Pines Reserve & State Beach

Torrey Pines SB in Del Mar is one of only two locations where the Torrey Pine tree naturally occurs. The Torrey Pine is the rarest pine in the United States; only two populations of this endangered species exist, in Del Mar and on Santa Rosa Island near Santa Barbara.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a wilderness island in an urban sea. The park preserves not only the trees, but also one of the last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges in Southern California. The reserve features high broken cliffs and deep ravines on headlands overlooking the ocean. Hikers can follow trails through stands of wind-sculpted pines.

Torrey Pines Reserve

FUN FACT: Del Mar is the first surfing location mentioned in the 1963 Beach Boys song “Surfin’ U.S.A.”

Del Mar Highlands

Grab your wallet and head east a mile or two for more unique shopping and restaurants! Del Mar Highlands Town Center is a recently renovated open air shopping center. The new “Sky Deck” features nine different restaurants featuring tastes from around the world. The upscale atmosphere has multiple fireplaces with lounge seating and live music on Fridays from June to October.

You can catch a movie at Cinepolis, get a massage, do yoga or acupuncture, or check out the cute locally owned shops.

Del Mar Highlands Town Center

One Paseo

Also located in the Highland area of Del Mar is One Paseo. The coastal vibe includes comfortable places to gather and one of a kind finds and services. The hand selected shops showcase artist-driven brands and local designers. A variety of dining options available including modern Mexican, sushi, Italian and French pastries. Enjoy “Weekend Tunes” on Friday and Saturday evenings.

One Paseo

Apr 01 2022

TREAT YOURSELF – Spas in North County San Diego

Everyone needs a little self care and these spas provide the ultimate in luxury and pampering. Be sure to book your spa day in San Diego.

The Spa at Torrey Pines

Enjoy Timeless Craftsman Charm

On a quiet perch in view of coastal cliffs that tower above the Pacific Ocean, The Spa at Torrey Pines is a destination defined by relaxation and revitalization. Experience the serenity of the spa with an array of massages, facials, body wraps, and nail care treatments.
Within walking distance of the treasured Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, The Spa and its treatments are inspired by its location and indigenous plant life found in the reserve. Unwind and experience the healing nature at The Spa at Torrey Pines.

Located within the Lodge at Torrey Pines

Spa at Torrey Pines

The Center for Wellbeing – Grand Del Mar

Immerse yourself in the art of well-being

The Center For Wellbeing specializes in the arts of quieting the mind, soothing the body and emboldening the spirit. Rooted in the healing traditions of the past and the regenerative science of the present, the award-winning menu of services at The Center For Wellbeing is designed to calm, balance, and naturally restore health and beauty from the inside and out.

Grand Del Mar Center for Wellbeing

The Spa at Rancho Valencia

Forbes 5-Star Rated, Newly Renovated

Tucked away amid lush gardens and olive groves lies an enchanting oasis of self-discovery, wellness, fitness, and relaxation—The Spa at Rancho Valencia. Celebrating the revitalizing benefits of herbs, minerals and oils along with leading edge product lines and offerings, The Spa offers a vast array of choices to soothe the spirit, rejuvenate the body and enrich the mind.

As you relax and listen to the sound of the soothing waterfalls at our Rancho Santa Fe spa, you feel a close connection with your natural surroundings. It is this connection that inspires the rejuvenating menu of offerings.

The Spa at Rancho Valencia

The Spa at La Costa

A Full Spa Day Awaits

Experience you in a whole new light. Named “Favorite Resort Spa Nationwide” by American Spa Magazine, The Spa at La Costa offers a unique opportunity to experience yourself from a relaxed perspective.
Enjoy a relaxing massage or soothing facial in one of the spa’s 42 treatment rooms. Treatment options include an array of exotic massages, facials, body wraps and new clinical treatments. Turn your treatment into a day of relaxation. The courtyard offers a tranquil spa pool, Jacuzzi, al fresco waterfall shower, lounging areas, a Spa Café, Reflexology Path and herb garden.

The Spa at La Costa

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Feb 02 2022

Your Guide to Whale Watching

It’s the perfect time for whale watching in San Diego!

Every winter, about 20,000 Pacific gray whales travel 10,000 miles round-trip (the longest migration of any mammal on earth) from Alaska to the lagoons of Baja California, Mexico. That makes San Diego, with its 78 miles of coastline directly in the migration path, the perfect place to watch.

If you’re staying in one of our oceanfront or ocean view properties, you have a great chance of seeing these incredible creatures. Since our condos are up high on the bluffs, you’ll have a great view of the ocean. All you need is a little patience! Be sure to grab some binoculars for a closer look.

SPOTTING WHALES

The whales are migrating south towards Mexico, so they will be moving from the north to the south. Expect them to be moving at a steady clip of about five miles per hour, and although some whales swim close to shore, most swim in an area that extends past the kelp beds (about three-quarters of a mile out) to the horizon.

According to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, gray whales generally travel alone or in pods of two or three but more may be seen traveling together during peak migration season (Mid-January), so keep an eye out for large pods.

The Blow or Spout

When warm, moist air exhaled from the whales’ lungs meets the cool air at the ocean surface, it creates what we call a blow or spout. A gray whale’s blow can spray up to 15 feet high, and each blow is visible for about five seconds. Anticipate that the whale will dive for three to six minutes, then surface for three to five blows in row, 30 to 50 seconds apart, before diving deep for three to six minutes again. The blow is often heart shaped.

The Flukes (Tail)

Before making a deep dive, a gray whale often displays its 12-foot wide fan-shaped flukes or tail. The weight of the tail above the whale’s body helps it to dive deep, so you’ll see it surface just before they go under.

Knuckled Back and Footprint

Gray whales do not have a dorsal fin. If the lighting is right, and if the whale is close enough, it’s possible to see the back of a gray whale during and after the blow. It’s generally shiny and black or gray, with a knuckled ridge along the spine. After the whale submerges you may note an elongated, smooth oval of calm water, known as a footprint, where the whale has been.

Breach and Splash

Gray whales occasionally hurl themselves out of the water and plunge back in with a tremendous splash. This is called breaching. Scientists don’t know exactly why they do this, but it’s incredible to watch. Sometimes other whales in the area will copy the behavior, so keep your eyes open! Typically, gray whales do not breach as often as other species of whales.

If You Do Spot a Whale…

Remember that they are migrating south — so once you’ve spotted a whale, you can expect that it will surface again to the south. After watching an individual gray whale for a while, you will be able to anticipate its unique rhythm of breaths and dives and where it will surface next.

In spring, the gray whales will migrate north again, but they are usually too far out in the ocean to see from shore.

FUN FACTS!

• Adult gray whales can be up to 45 feet long and weigh up to 33 tons! Males are slightly smaller than females. They live 50-60 years.

• A whale’s fluke (tail) has no bones; it only connects to the body and tail muscles by banks of tendons.

• Gray whales search for food such as tiny shrimp-like animals on the bottom of the ocean.

• Gray whales have plates of baleen that hang from their upper jaws and filter food.

• Gray whales rarely feed while migrating or during the winters in the tropical waters; feeding occurs almost exclusively during the summers and animals live off of fat reserves while breeding.

• During feeding, each gray whale eats about 1.3 tons of food per day.

• Gray whales were close to extinction in the 1850s and again in the early 1900s before laws were passed in 1946 to protect them. Today, eastern pacific population is going strong at 20,000+ individuals.

• Killer whales (orcas) and humans are gray whale’s only predators.

WHALE WATCHING TOURS

If you want to get up close and personal, a whale watching tour is your best bet. Book a tour through any number of whale watching companies in the area. Stubbs recommends Flagship Cruises & Events at 990 North Harbor Drive in downtown San Diego or Oceanside Adventures at 256 Harbor Drive South, Oceanside, CA 92054.

MORE INFO: Gray Whale Migration

Alaska Department of Fish and Game

I Scream, You Scream… ICE CREAM!

Treat Yourself to Some Gourmet Ice Cream

JoJo’s Creamery – Encinitas Lumberyard

Salt & Straw – One Paseo

An’s Hatmakers – Del Mar Village

Cali Cream Homemade Ice Cream – Encinitas

Ice cream not your thing? Here’s a must try…

Crumbl Cookies – Del Mar Heights

DAY TRIP: Point Loma

History, Views, Nature, Marinas… Point Loma!

OLD POINT LOMA LIGHTHOUSE

SHELTER ISLAND

LIBERTY STATION

SUNSET CLIFFS

DAY TRIP: Del Mar

Del Mar History

Where the Turf Meets the Surf

Del Mar Village

Torrey Pines Reserve & State Beach

Del Mar Highlands

One Paseo

TREAT YOURSELF – Spas in North County San Diego

Everyone needs a little self care and these spas provide the ultimate in luxury and pampering. Be sure to book your spa day in San Diego.

The Spa at Torrey Pines

Enjoy Timeless Craftsman Charm

The Center for Wellbeing – Grand Del Mar

Immerse yourself in the art of well-being

The Spa at Rancho Valencia

Forbes 5-Star Rated, Newly Renovated

The Spa at La Costa

A Full Spa Day Awaits

Your Guide to Whale Watching

It’s the perfect time for whale watching in San Diego!

SPOTTING WHALES

FUN FACTS!

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