Off the Beaten Path: Solana Beach

Just because a town is off the beaten path, that doesn’t mean that it lacks unique qualities perfect for new adventures and fun. Solana Beach is one of those places. A beach town that is often overlooked in the shadows of La Jolla and Pacific Beach, Solana Beach is full of golden beaches and tons of exciting things to explore. A stunning four square miles by the sea, Solana Beach is a strikingly beautiful area. Most residents who live there live the coastal lifestyle where time goes slow.

Fletcher Cove

As the day goes on in Solana Beach, you can find all kinds of activity going on at Fletcher Cove. A popular place for picnics and pickup games, it’s also a great place to bring the kids to enjoy a day in the sun. When the sun gets low, people gather cliffside to enjoy one of the signature San Diego sunsets as surfers make their final attempts to catch the last rides of the day.

Tide Beach Park

Tide Beach Park sits on the northern end of Solana Beach and requires you to hike down a long set of stairs. While the trek there can be a little tough, it’s all worth it when you get down to the shore. At high tide, the beach is confined to the cove, but during low tide, you can explore tide pools at the north end of the cove.

Art

Heading over to Main Street in the Cedros Design District, you’ll find 85 one-of-a-kind boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Solana Beach is known for its thriving art scene, and it’s certainly evident while taking a stroll down the design district. Check out the David Alan Collection for a wide selection of one-of-a-kind antiques and artwork.

Hiking

Don’t forget to check out the hiking in Solana Beach. Head to Annie’s Canyon Trail, which was just recently restored and reopened in 2016. Named in honor of Annie, a 30-year resident of Solana Beach and conservationist, this trail features grand views of the ocean and lagoon, and the coastal weather makes for a relatively cool hike.

Food

After a long day in the sun, Solana Beach has a ton of eateries, cafes, brew pubs and wineries. Restaurants in Solana Beach place a high importance on farm-to-table dishes, making for a deliciously fresh meal. Check out Solana Beach Fish House, a local favorite spot since 1994. With a large Mediterranean influence in the recipes, you’ll be hard-pressed to find fresher seafood in San Diego.