Nothing brings out the feeling of wanderlust in us quite like spring. We can’t say for sure whether that’s because the days are getting longer and warmer or if it’s the fact that the kids have school vacation coming up, so the time to plan a trip is now. Either way, spring has sprung, and we’re here for it. And we’re also here for you with a list of some of our favorite spring travel locations.
We have suggestions for hitting up the desert when the flowers are in full bloom and the weather is still reasonable, as well as some excellent mountain spots to make the most of spring skiing. If your idea of the perfect vacation involves not leaving your amenities-heavy resort or looks more like living life as a local, keep reading for some perfect options. If you prefer your vacations with a side of active adventures, there’s plenty below to scratch that itch, too. And if distance makes a difference, we’ve got you covered with choices that include heading down to Mexico or staying closer to home — and we mean, like, really close to home. As is, you don’t actually have to leave the city for a good time. That’s the beauty of living in San Diego after all! So, get ready to celebrate spring with whatever kind of trip sounds best for you. We’re here to help figure out the planning, so all you’ve got to do is pack your bags.
Cross Border Xpress
Making a trip to Mexico has never been easier thanks to Cross Border Xpress, a pedestrian bridge that provides fast, seamless, and convenient access to Tijuana’s International Airport. You simply check-in from San Diego, then walk over the bridge to Mexican customs to catch your flight—totally skipping the time and stress that comes with a traditional border crossing process. And since the Tijuana airport has the most connections of any airport in Mexico, you can use Cross Border Xpress for trips anywhere from Cancun to Mexico City.
La Quinta Resort & Club
Everything you need for the ultimate desert getaway you’ll find at La Quinta Resort & Club. Unwind with a flight of wine and massage at a world-class spa, play a round of golf at a PGA West course, or relax at one of its 42(!!) different pools, either by wading in the water or lounging in a private cabana. The resort, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, features three on-site restaurants, serving everything from contemporary American to authentic Mexican cuisine, and there’s stunning views of the Santa Rosa Mountains all around.
Death Valley Natural History Association
Yes, DeathValley is busy in springtime, but crowds are there for good reason: This is the only time you can see the park’s wildflowers in full bloom. Spring is also the perfect season to hit the trails by foot or on a mountain bike before the weather gets too hot. But if you happen to visit on a particularly warm day, you can take a scenic (and air conditioned) drive to Dante’s View for spectacular panoramic views of desert landscapes, mountains, and salt flats.
Mammoth Lakes Mountain Club
If the start of spring reminds you that, as San Diegans, we never really get to experience winter, why not sneak away to the mountains for the weekend-or even a week? At Mammoth Lakes Mountain Club, the town’s newest private ski and social club, Ikon passes and private parking access make it easy to maximize time on the slopes, while a refined private lounge and an all-day bar offer the perfect haven for ski-tired muscles.
Drift Hotels
We love all four of Drift Hotels’ locations for their boutique feel and emphasis on authentic travel experiences, but we’re particularly keen on the Palm Springs spot this time of year. The hotel’s style is fully California cool meets mid-century modern minimalism, which is exactly what we want for our desert vacation. The complimentary beach cruisers make exploring downtown fun and convenient, but the expansive pool complete with cocktails, cabanas, and priceless views sort of makes us never want to leave the property. Grab a bite at Maleza or try some of their rare mezcal and tequila selection.
Queen Bee’s Art & Cultural Center
If the sunny weather has you feeling ready to dance, head east for the Magical Mystery Campout, a Beatles tribute fair at De Anza Springs Resort hosted by Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center. On April 4–5, spend your days hiking desert trails and making s’mores, then rock out under the stars to 20 different Beatles tribute bands for a weekend that feels equal parts festival and camping trip.
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Studio S
OCTOBER 22, 2026
Milan Design + Build Helps San Diegans Remodel Their Homes
The San Diego home remodeling company works on full homes, kitchens, bathrooms, home additions, ADUs, garages, landscapes, and hardscapes.
Most homeowners want two things before they commit to a remodel: a realistic sense of cost and a clear picture of what the finished space will look like. Milan Design + Build helps deliver both through its online remodeling estimator and personalized design consultations, supported by a showroom experience and 3D renderings.
“The online estimate gives homeowners a starting number in about a minute, and the showroom and 3D renderings let them see materials and layouts before anything is built,” says David Noriani, CEO of Milan Design + Build. “Keeping design, permits, and construction with one team helps us manage expectations and keep everyone working toward the same vision.”
Courtesy of Milan Design
Modern design is a particular focus for Milan, with an emphasis on clean lines, natural light, functional layouts, and carefully selected materials. The team adapts each design to the homeowner’s lifestyle and the character of the property. Milan Design + Build combines thoughtful design with construction expertise, creating spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful.
The online estimator covers kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, full-home remodels, and ADU construction. At Milan’s showroom on Carroll Road, visitors can review real materials, finishes, and design options, meet the design-build team, and discuss project scope, budget, and timing. Consultations can also be held virtually for homeowners who prefer to start remotely.
At Milan Design + Build, one integrated team works on the entire project. Design and construction aren’t divided between separate firms. The process begins with a consultation and feasibility review, followed by design, space planning, and 3D renderings developed from detailed measurements and digital scans. The team also coordinates architectural plans, structural engineering, city approvals, and material selection, with construction overseen by a dedicated project manager.
Homeowners can explore their remodeling options, get an initial estimate, or request a design consultation at MilanBuild.com.
At any given time, there are roughly 200 research investigations and clinical trials being conducted at Scripps Health in as many as 25 medical specialties. Research and patient care go hand-in-hand at Scripps. Those studies can be categorized as clinical trials of a medication or device that are conducted by Scripps physicians and studies designed by Scripps’ physicians and clinicians. Click here to learn about three exciting studies underway at Scripps and the benefits to patients.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
Scripps has recently unveiled new features in the MyScripps patient portal and mobile app to help patients connect with their primary care team and simplify the payment process. Among the recent updates is the addition of primary care E-visits for minor conditions. Patients who have an established primary care physician can schedule an E-visit, complete an online questionnaire and, if needed, send a photo. Their doctor can then advise and prescribe medication, when appropriate. Autopay is also now available through MyScripps. Patients can enable or disable autopay, allowing them to more easily manage payments. Learn more about MyScripps and how it helps patients stay connected here.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
Farrah Adams had a persistent dull ache in her lower back that her massage therapist suggested might be caused by the way she sat or drove. That explanation seemed reasonable, but when coupled with heavy, painful periods led the then 46-year-old to seek answers. When she looks back on it now, she’s beyond grateful she trusted her gut. She made an appointment with a Scripps OB-GYN, who determined she had Stage 3 cervical cancer that had spread to several lymph nodes. Farrah was overwhelmed, but immediately found a “champion” in Scripps Clinic gynecologic oncologist Jo Marie Tran Janco, MD. After undergoing successful treatment at Scripps Cancer Center, Farrah is now using her story to inspire other women to make time for care. Read more of her story here.
For more nutrition, wellness, and healthy living tips, sign up for the San Diego Health newsletter here.
Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego To Recognize 11 Honorees at 54th Annual National Philanthropy Day in November
This year’s theme, 'Impact Through Philanthropy,’ spotlights the impact of individuals, businesses and community organizations throughout San Diego County.
“Impact through Philanthropy isn’t just a theme; it’s what we see every day in San Diego’s diverse communities,” said Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP, AFP San Diego chapter president. “The honorees show what’s possible when intention meets generosity, leadership and dedication come together. We’re honored to celebrate the honorees alongside our presenting sponsor, PNC Bank.”
“Philanthropy is one of San Diego’s great strengths—not just because of this community’s generosity, but because of what happens when people unite around the belief that our region can be better,” said Mark Stuart, President & CEO of the San Diego Foundation and Honorary Committee Chair for National Philanthropy Day. “National Philanthropy Day lets us recognize the donors, volunteers, fundraisers, and organizations who turn that belief into action, strengthening lives throughout our community. Celebrating them reminds us all of the extraordinary power we have when we work together.”
Eleven honorees, including eight individuals and three organizations, were selected from scores of nominees submitted from throughout San Diego County. Honorees were selected through a rigorous vetting process by AFP San Diego’s Honorary Committee.
2026 National Philanthropy Day Honorees:
Outstanding Development Professional, Emerging Leader – Miguel Lopez, CFRE (San Diego Foundation)
Outstanding Development Professional, Mid-Career – Amie Brown, CFRM (Meals on Wheels San Diego County)
Outstanding Development Professional, Career Achievement – David Hanses (Scripps Institution of Oceanography)
Outstanding Organization, IDEA – The San Diego LGBT Community Center
Outstanding Grantmaking Organization – David C. Copley Foundation
Outstanding Philanthropic Business or Corporation – Maya’s Cookies
Outstanding Student Volunteer – Chris Zheng (Casa de Amistad)
Outstanding Volunteer – Dr. Suzanne Afflalo (A Healthier Me)
Outstanding Volunteer – Fred Davis (Serving Seniors)
Outstanding Philanthropists – Mel & Linda Katz
Special Lifetime Achievement Award – Ingrid de Llamas, CFRE, IAP
National Philanthropy Day Supports AFP San Diego’s Empower Fund
Beyond recognizing local philanthropic leadership, National Philanthropy Day supports the Empower Fund, powered by U.S. Bank, which provides scholarships, educational opportunities and professional development for nonprofit leaders.
In its inaugural year, AFP San Diego raised $28,000 for the Empower Fund through National Philanthropy Day, with a goal of $50,000 in 2026. Contributions directly support educational initiatives for nonprofit professionals throughout the region. Donations are accepted year-round.
AFP San Diego’s National Philanthropy Day is made possible through the generous support of Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank, Empower Sponsor U.S. Bank, Focus Sponsor Sanford Institute of Philanthropy at NU and dozens of partners. View the full list of 2026 sponsors.
Event Details
Friday, Nov. 13, 2026 | 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101
Tickets and partnership opportunities are available at AFPSD.org – NPD 2026! For more information, contact Fiona King at 619-538-6605 or [email protected].
About AFP San Diego
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) San Diego Chapter has supported fundraising professionals and nonprofit leaders throughout San Diego County since 1974. Through professional education, mentorship, networking and leadership opportunities, AFP San Diego connects people at every stage of their careers while advancing ethical and effective fundraising practices. With more than 350 local members and connections to a global network of fundraising professionals, AFP San Diego invests in the people behind philanthropy to strengthen nonprofits and the communities they serve. Learn more at AFPSD.org & follow AFPSD on LinkedIn
