It’s a Wednesday night, and I’m sitting in a living room with weed elite: the Cannabitch herself, SDM Content Strategist Jackie Bryant. As someone who wants to loosen the grip of alcohol—and has lived with anxiety for over 20 years—I realized that perhaps it’s time I tried being “California Sober.”

Last week, after posting my second installment of this Dry January series to my personal Instagram, I began having a mild panic attack. I was terrified, scared of offending people. I was worried about betraying trusts and being seen as a poser—that sharing my struggles will show that I’m not dedicated or equipped enough to really go for full, month-long sobriety.

I felt weak. I felt ashamed. I felt thirsty.

My anxiety led me to Bottlecraft in North Park, where I ordered a glass of Field Recordings’ skin-contact blend. This glass is “strike three” in my month-long quest at teetotaling. I’m immediately disappointed but relieved. It did the trick at quelling my thoughts, even one sip in. But I can’t rely on alcohol to save me from my fears. That’s the whole point of this experiment. I need to make changes in myself that will lead to changes in my relationship with alcohol.

Today, I’m staring at a can of Wynk, a THC- and CBD-infused seltzer that brands itself as the “still-social way to stay technically dry” and wondering if this could be my path forward, away from alcohol. The brand comes in 2.5 mg or 5 mg doses inside a 12-fluid ounce can. Each has an onset time of 10 to 15 minutes. 

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Honestly, I’ve always thought of being California sober as cheating. How can one drug be allowed while the other can’t, and you still get to call yourself “sober?” It was a conundrum that made me a little judgmental, but I’m not a smoker. Despite growing up in Maui, the wowie never caught my attention. We all have our vices, and mine just wasn’t weed. But because of my lack of interest, I’m curious if this will be less tempting and remain an occasional activity, rather than a more compulsive one. It’s a lateral move, sure, but one that, as of now, I’m less apt to crave. Let’s just say, I don’t think I’ll be subscribing to High Times anytime soon.

“If being California sober is the thing that’s going to keep you safe and keep you alive, why not, right?,” says Dr. Katarina Thatcher of Monima Wellness Center, which values harm reduction for people who struggle with substance use. “But it’s also, once again, coming from the idea of: It’s not the substance that’s the issue. It’s your relationship with the substance that then becomes the issue, right?”

That’s where I’m at. It’s not the alcohol that’s the problem per se, it’s my savior complex that keeps bringing me back to it; thinking that it’s the only antidote for my anxiety. In these last two weeks of not really drinking, I’ve seen a noticeable difference in my concentration and overall ambition. Drinking less has let me see how much time I’ve wasted—and, thankfully, how much time I still have left to devote to myself and my future.

My relationships have been richer and more honest. Even my editors have noticed my writing becoming stronger. We all know there are benefits to not drinking, but experiencing them and having to reflect on them in real time has taught me that this substance is holding me back from becoming the person I was truly meant to become.

“Behaviorally, I think there’s almost no comparison, and there are medical studies that back that up,” Jackie tells me as I share with her my concerns about trading one intoxicating substance for another. “The way that alcohol and THC manifest in my own body and my own behavior are completely different, and I think that’s a fairly universal truth because they are chemically different intoxicants. Stereotypes are what they are for a reason, and the stereotypes of being drunk and behaving wildly versus being super stoned and more relaxed tend to bear out in real life. Both substances lower your inhibitions, but for different reasons and in different ways with different outcomes.”

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Dr. Thatcher’s words echoed in my head all week as I reflected on my desire to drink. So, to knock me off my high horse and keep me away from the perils of consumption, I decided to delve into the Cali sober way, which means trading in weed in lieu of alcohol when those anxious cravings come—and hopefully use this alternative to wean my knee-jerk reaction to “need” something to curb the anxiety entirely.

Gummies sound fun, but I still love the act of drinking and all its social tie-ins, so I opted for a beverage. Founded by CEO Angus Rittenburg, Wynk launched in 2021 with a mission to help change the landscape of drinking and wellness in general. “People are so in tune with their health now,” Rittenburg says. “I think it’s revealing a lot about alcohol consumption that is scaring people, and for a lot of the sort of negative impacts of alcohol that you’re sacrificing to get that social buzz. These THC-infused beverages can fill that void without all of those downsides, but particularly calories and damage to your body—[THC] is not a poison.”

I opt for the 5 mg can to see how it might affect my virgin palate. My friend slyly grins as I crack open the can. I set a timer for 10 minutes. Here we go…

It creeps up on you, but subtly. The flavor is the biggest wow factor—it doesn’t taste at all like weed. While it’s not quite capturing the “juicy mango” flavor it’s purported to have, there’s a tinge of La Croix–like fruitiness amongst a robust mousse of bubbles that help mimic the feel of a White Claw or a soda-based cocktail. Basically, it goes down easily. 

Fifteen minutes in and I’m feeling very relaxed. I’m glued to the TV and the ottoman that’s holding me up. I try to make a comment about the movie we’re watching, and when I can’t back it up with facts, anecdotal evidence, or logic, I realize I am stoned. Jackie calls me out. “Stony baloney!” she crows.

But, after the movie is over, so is my high. This was the perfect mellowing out that I needed. “So, with a 2.5 mg drink, we could have one and be ourselves … or we could have six and, just like alcohol, you could build the experience you wanted,” Rittenburg explains.

I realize I am a lightweight, but much like alcohol, one builds a tolerance. For now, I’ll stick with one 5 mg can to achieve my ideal chill. Unfortunately, Wynk is only available online in California (no retail locations as of yet, thanks to state regulations), so I’ll have to stock up to have one on hand for the occasional party or dinnertime wind-down instead of a bottle of wine.

Jackie texts me the morning after. “How do you feel?” she asks. Honestly, I feel great. I haven’t slept that well in ages and I was up-and-at-’em enough to do a morning workout, which is a marked difference from the sluggish lie-in that I usually have after a night of drinking. She presses me for more info: “Are you going to stick with it? Are you going to cut back for good?”

Those questions linger in my head all day long as I navigate social gatherings, time with family, and my own anxieties. This has certainly opened my eyes to other options that make for a seamless alternative to drinking, without any of the side-effects that come with it. Will I be exclusively Cali Sober? Doubtful. But I do have one more tool in my arsenal to avoid the pitfalls of maladaptive behavior, which could unintentionally lead to dependence. 

My excursion in weed has taught me that I don’t revere substances. I revere calm. I seek peace. I want to trust myself, in my pure, unadulterated form—because, from what I’ve been told by family and friends, that woman is downright wonderful. But it’s really, really hard for me to do. I want to love myself without any help. Maybe this Cali Sober experience is the training wheels I need to get me there.

The post Dry January: Going Cali Sober appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Dinner with a View

There’s no shortage of oceanfront dining in San Diego, but a Valentine’s meal deserves an extra-special setting. For a classic La Jolla sunset, head to George’s at the Cove. Prefer a hip rooftop vibe with Italian fare and Aperol spritzes? Garibaldi is your spot. And for a unique experience, book a table at Tom Ham’s Lighthouse for waterfront dining with a touch of novelty.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is chock-full of date possibilities, thanks to its wide variety of museums, gardens, and dining options. Learn something new together at the Nat, take a romantic stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden, or simply lay out a picnic on one of the park’s relaxing grassy knolls.

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South Bay Drive-In

All those teens in the 1950s can’t have been wrong: There’s something quite intimate about a drive-in movie theater. South Bay Drive-In shows up to six flicks on three screens, seven days a week. Cuddling up in the comfort of your own car while watching a story unfold is a classic date activity that has stood the test of time.  

Belmont Park

Up the adrenaline next date night with a trip to Belmont Park. The iconic Mission Beach amusement park is packed with heart-pounding thrill rides (which science says can turn up the heat in your relationship), plus fair games where you can charm your cutie by winning them a prize.

Get Artsy Together

This Valentine’s Day, channel your inner Patrick Swayze and create something meaningful (and messy) with your partner. Instead of the predictable paint-and-sip classes, opt for a hands-on pottery class at Pinch Pottery Studio downtown. This special Valentine’s Day class is $150 and will leave you each with a handmade piece to cherish as a keepsake.

Wine & Dine

Nothing says romance like a good wine and charcuterie pairing. The Rose in South Park is an adorable spot for sipping cabernet while nibbling on meats, cheeses, and breads from Secret Sister Bakery. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of South Park for a perfect end to the evening. Want more wine bar inspiration? We’ve got you covered here.

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Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Are you and your honey outdoorsy? Then Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve may be right up your alley. The expansive reserve offers breathtaking environs, multiple trails to explore, and access to Torrey Pines State Beach.

Farmers Market

You can find an abundance of farmers markets across the city almost any day of the week. They’re a great place to wander hand-and-hand, scoping local produce and buying ingredients to make a fun, fresh lunch together after. 

Liberty Station

Whether it’s a first date or your weekly couples night, the romantic outing options at Liberty Station are endless. You can enjoy a luxury cinema experience at The Lot or have a friendly mini golf competition at Tapper Mini Golf. Round out the evening with dinner at Liberty Public Market.

Indulge in a Spa Day

Treat yourselves this Valentine’s Day with a couples massage at one of San Diego’s most luxurious spas. The Spa at Fairmont Grand Del Mar offers a decadent Restorative Couples Massage for $930, complete with a mineral-rich bath, moisture wrap, and foot massage. Your skin—and your special someone—will thank you.

Take the Leap

Besides marriage, paragliding might just be the ultimate declaration of love. Soar side-by-side from the Torrey Pines Gliderport, where professional instructors will guide you on a tandem flight over La Jolla’s stunning coastline. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline and awe for you and your adrenaline-seeking partner. Flights start at $200—commitment optional.

Coin Haus

If your date night takes you to East County, pop by Coin Haus in La Mesa. The arcade bar features self-serve taps and retro games, making it perfect for a cool and nostalgic outing. You can also team up with your main squeeze or double-date with friends at Coin Haus’ weekly trivia night.

Rooftop Cinema Club

A trip to the movies is a quintessential date night activity. Take it to the next level with Rooftop Cinema Club, an open-air experience at the Manchester Grand Hyatt featuring new flicks and older classics. The city views, theater snacks, and personal headphones offer a more immersive viewing opportunity.

Have a Bougie Picnic

Elevate your picnic game with a touch of luxury. If your charcuterie skills are a little lackluster, let the pros at San Diego Picnics handle it. They’ll craft an Insta-worthy glamp for you and your boo in picturesque spots like Sunset Cliffs, Mission Bay, or Kate Sessions Park. Ready to take things to the next level? Opt for their proposal package and pop the question.

Kayaking in La Jolla 

If you really want to bond with your boo, try something adventurous that requires a little teamwork. Kayaking around the waters of La Jolla really fits that bill—plus, you’re likely to catch amazing views of sea lions and tiger sharks.

Sip and Stroll at a Winery

Skip the grocery store wine and taste varietals fresh from the vine. Bernardo Winery’s Valentine’s Day festivities, running February 12–16, feature live music, themed cuisine, and specialty drinks. Reserve a tasting or tour the 136-year-old vineyard for a date steeped in history—and wine.

Punch Bowl Social 

Gaslamp Quarter hotspot Punch Bowl Social is a great place to bring a date, as endless opportunities for fun are right at your fingertips. Cap off ten frames of bowling at Punch Bowl with a menu full of late-night bites, comfort food, and cocktails.

San Diego Zoo

At the San Diego Zoo, you and your date can spend hours peering at elephants, orangutans, and other fascinating creatures. For a new fling, it offers plenty of time to chat and get to know each other. For those in an established relationship, it’s a great place to spend quality time together and have some wholesome fun. 

The Pearl Hotel 

Let me grab my swimsuit probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think “movie night”—unless, of course, you’re headed to The Pearl Hotel. The Point Loma lodging’s Wednesday Dive-In movie nights in the pool often include cult classics, as well as the opportunity to dine at the onsite restaurant.

Eco Boat Rentals

Tired of meeting for drinks? Try something new: Eco Boat Rentals in Point Loma offers great day and evening boating opportunities. I personally enjoyed taking their pedal boat for a ride during the afternoon, laughing along with my husband as we tried to keep our pedaling in sync. You can also check out their nighttime “glow ride” option to take in the lights of San Diego’s skyline from the water.

The post 20 Fun Valentine’s Day Ideas in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

His affection for Honma Golf is understandable. Clubs from the BERES line, with smooth metals dyed silver, gold, and red, look more like pieces of jewelry than they do sporting goods. It’s Moon’s job, as the company’s ecommerce and customer service manager, to sell those clubs, although that title doesn’t fully capture his role running Honma Golf’s three-person Carlsbad operation. 

Founded in Japan in 1959, the company developed a devout following, mostly in Asia, for its meticulously designed and unusually sophisticated golf clubs. They aren’t manufactured so much as they are crafted, but for decades that luxury went largely unnoticed in North America. In an effort to grow in Western markets, Honma Golf setup shop in Torrance in Los Angeles County, then Cyprus in Orange County. Finally, in 2019, the company landed in Carlsbad, known as the “golf equipment capital of the world.” 

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That may sound like a roadside oddity or an obscure Guinness World Record, but in Carlsbad the moniker is serious business. A block from Honma Golf is Titleist’s Carlsbad office. TaylorMade and Callaway are headquartered on the other side of Palomar Airport. That makes three of golf’s “Big Four” brands within two miles of each other, and you can’t swing a club without hitting dozens of smaller companies like Cobra and Honma. “It’s good to be in the mix with the big companies,” Moon says. “We’re not moving any time soon.” 

According to a report from the city’s economic development division, there are no less than 116 firms in the sports innovation and design industry cluster, which includes the city’s world-renowned golf equipment manufacturers. “We’re claiming over 2,300 employees in that sector, which is more than six times the national average,” says Bret Schanzenbach, president and CEO of the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce. “It also generates good income—averaging $130,000 per employee per year in annual earnings.”

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Callaway and TaylorMade together earn over $5 billion annually, or about $5 for every golf ball the world manufactures in a year. And the story of selling golf balls is inextricably linked with the story of Carlsbad.

Long a farming town, Carlsbad didn’t incorporate until 1952. Its population as of the 1960 census was just over 9,000, and not many people outside of San Diego County had heard of the town until the La Costa Resort, opened in 1965, began hosting the PGA’s Tournament of Champions in 1969. A 34-year-old Gary Player, at the height of his legendary career, fended off the likes of Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Lee Trevino for the trophy that year.

“I believe it is the way courses should be set,” Player told The New York Times after his victory at La Costa, now known as the Omni La Costa Resort & Spa. “It’s as fine a course as I won on.” High praise from a man who had taken the crown at the British Open nine months prior. La Costa would go on to host the tournament for the next 30 years, and the city grew around it.

That’s due in large part to Ely Callaway and Gary Adams. A textiles executive from Georgia, Callaway brought his fledgling golf club company to Carlsbad in 1983. A year later, Adams came to town with TaylorMade, a company he started in Illinois that had some success hawking “metalwoods,” a departure from the traditional all-wood sets. 

In 1991, Callaway took the novel idea a step further and invented the Big Bertha driver, the first made entirely of stainless steel. The club head was massive yet light in the hand. It felt like the future, because it was. The story of golf—and Carlsbad—became centered around engineering, research and development, and technological advances. It mirrored the digital revolution rooted in Northern California. The Bay Area had Silicon Valley. Carlsbad had Titanium Valley. Honma Golf resides on Innovation Way. 

“If you’re a golf company, do you want to be based in Illinois, or are you going to go to a place like California where you can golf year round?” Schanzenbach says. Carlsbad has “infrastructure, plus the weather, plus the quality of life, and the ability to bring in top [golf] professionals to your facility to test out your equipment,” he adds. “You want to bring them to a place where, afterwards, you can go out to a really nice course with beautiful weather and treat them.” 

But the local industry has hit the rough in recent years. According to the city, employment in the sector declined 16.3 percent between 2018 and 2020, a trend that started back in 2013, despite overall golf participation being up 30 percent since 2016, according to the National Golf Foundation. While the weather in Carlsbad is still perfect, some of the factors that fueled its explosive growth, especially cheap land and plentiful labor, are today tilting against it.

“Coming out of Covid, one of the biggest things we were hearing from our membership was the challenge with finding and then retaining talent for their companies,” Schanzenbach says. “I know TaylorMade has done a good job with it. But [for] the middle-tier companies, it’s hard.”

Honma Golf felt this firsthand.

PGA tour pro Justin Rose signed with the company in early 2019, and a few weeks later, he won the Farmers Insurance Open in San Diego. Honma was finally making inroads in the US, then Covid hit. “All the momentum stopped,” Moon says. 

Sales slumped, then the company struggled with staff turnover and recruiting executive and marketing teams to achieve its goals in North America. The realities of high costs, intense competition, and hiring challenges set in, but Honma Golf is undeterred. By reorganizing its marketing team and refocusing on its core market segment of golfers interested in premium clubs, the company feels there are better days ahead. “2025 is going to be a good year,” Moon predicts.

It’s a retrenchment not unlike Callaway Golf’s. In September, the company announced it was spinning off Topgolf, the chain of entertainment-focused driving ranges it acquired just four years earlier. The company wants to focus on its traditional golf equipment and apparel business, the one based in Carlsbad—the one that helped make Carlsbad. 

After Covid’s industry-wide disruptions, the future of the local golf manufacturing industry is coming into focus. So far, it looks a lot like the first 40 years: You can’t play golf without Carlsbad.

The post How Carlsbad Became the Golf Equipment Capital of the World appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

People touch your life for brief moments, with varying degrees of intensity—and sometimes the short-lived ones hit the hardest. Strangers morph into best friends. Lovers fade to strangers. Friends move on with the demands of their opposing lifestyle. Or they die from it. 

I recently found out a new friend had passed at the age of 42 after checking himself into rehab. He was my age. I listened to the voicemail he sent me on December 26. I’ll get back to him soon. I’m traveling. I’m busy. But here I sit with a ghost trapped in my phone, a constant reminder of my shortcomings as a friend; for not calling him back and, really, for not telling him to stop.

I didn’t cry—I’m not sure why—but I was heartbroken for his friends and the community he had built. As I grieve him, his loss is serving as a reminder to love and take care of myself. 

And that’s what my Dry January is all about.

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Then comes January 8. I was feeling so proud that I had spent a whole week without alcohol for the first time in quite a while. I was waking up early. I was tackling my tasks with gusto. I had so much time to devote to myself and my new routine. But my pride was paused when I found out about the severity of the Palisades and Eaton fires. 

I lived in Los Angeles for nearly 20 years before my move to San Diego, from a freshman in college at Malibu’s Pepperdine University to becoming a bona fide adult attempting to live out her dreams in northeast LA’s Highland Park, just southwest of Altadena. My heart is utterly shattered for my former home, my friends who have lost it all, and the city’s history that has been scorched. This ache for Angelenos is compounded by the fact that Lahaina is my hometown. I’ve been through this before.

Anybody else need a drink?

Dr. Katarina Thatcher, an addiction specialist and therapist at Monima Wellness Center, San Diego’s first female-only therapeutic recovery center, notes that “a lot of the times, I noticed that people typically start getting into a maladaptive relationship with substances when their mental health is on the decline. And, to be honest, substances work. That’s part of the reason that we gravitate to them.” There’s the rub. 

Depending on the severity of one’s use, Thatcher cautions that when choosing sobriety “it’s really important that you get a health care team involved … because it can get very scary and people can get very sick.”

Overall, she says, “I think what is important for people to realize is when you’re challenging your relationship with a substance, [ask] what function does it serve? Or, what is it that keeps me coming back to this thing?” Most of us know what we’re numbing but naming it out loud can be the hardest thing to do.

My sister invited me out to dinner on January 9 for my niece’s birthday. I knew this would be the hardest hurdle I’ve faced. My sister and I grew up in restaurants together, always surrounded by the normalcy of drinking. Cocktails to start and a bottle of wine (or two) to finish was the liquid cadence of every meal. My sister is my best friend—and neither of us can deny an Aperol Spritz. The co-signing on questionable behavior is real. She texts me the wine list as I’m driving to the restaurant. I walk into the clamor of kids and the din of the other diners. She’s sitting there smiling through the cacophony with a Sauvignon Blanc. 

I know I don’t have to drink. I know she’ll be fine if I don’t. She won’t shame me. She won’t get sad. But I feel the urge to keep up appearances. This is how we dine.

Dr. Thatcher calls out some of the main triggers for people on their sober curious quest. “My mind goes to people, places and things,” she says. “If you know maybe you’re going to be in a situation where you’re going to be really uncomfortable, or you know that there’s going to be a lot of drinking, and maybe you’re fresh on your recovery journey or your abstinence journey, maybe it’s best to sit that one out.”

But, again, there I sit. The waitress approaches and spews that baiting line I myself have said a thousand times, “Anything to drink?” I spy the happy hour menu and spot a Chardonnay. Despite my better wine knowledge, it’s my kryptonite. I order the $6 glass and know it’s going to be horrible.

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The waitress comes back, delivering the chintzy glass full to the brim. I think of my friend who’s gone. I think of the LA that’s gone. I think of my progress, which is seconds away from being gone. Surely one little glass won’t set me spiraling. I take a sip. Gasoline with notes of pear. This pick wasn’t worth breaking my fast, but I’m heartened by the fact that I don’t finish it. Maybe because it’s terrible or maybe because I know better.

Dr. Thatcher emphasizes that “relapse is a part of recovery, which I think can be really daunting and maybe even discouraging for folks. But also perfectionism, or the idea of doing things perfectly, is also damaging to mental health. So, if you do relapse, or if you do have those sips, and you’re like ‘That’s not for me.’ Then, okay, there’s no need to beat yourself up over it.”

Though I let myself slip, I got right back on the horse and haven’t touched a drop since. Am I disappointed with myself? A little. But this experience proves that I can allow alcohol in when I want and shut it off when I want. I think.

Next week, we give our state’s latest adult export a shot and go Cali-Sober.

The post Dry January: Relapsing and Rebounding appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Today is the day I truly begin my search for temporary sobriety. Normally, after work, I’d pour myself a glass of wine and relax. Then I’d pour another one. And another. I’d tell myself it’s harmless. But it’s insidious. If I look back to 2024, I drank nearly every day—whether it was one glass, a cocktail, or three or five. It’s my favorite hobby and, quite frankly, I’m good at it.

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In March of 2024, Fox5 San Diego reported that 21 percent of San Diegans claim to binge drink or heavy drink in 2021. That’s higher than the national average of 17 percent. And that’s only what’s voluntarily reported. According to the CDC, binge drinking is four or more drinks for women, or five or more drinks for men during an occasion, while heavy drinking is eight or more drinks for women, or 15 or more drinks for men during a week. A few cheeky glasses are cute, though, right? Not bingeing. Not a problem. Not addiction. Right?

After pacing around my apartment, I poured myself a glass of wine—but not necessarily to drink. I started at it for 20 minutes. I held it. I smelled it. I swirled it. I did everything that I could besides sip. It’s the ritual of drinking that I love. The theatre of it all. But it’s a ritual that quickly became a crutch for anxiety—which begat more anxiety. Alcohol was never a problem for me until it became one.

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Alcohol had been affecting my health, finances, work, and the romantic relationship I wasn’t even in. That’s why I’ve made the choice to cut it out of my routine before it gets any worse. The goal is 30 days for a solid reset, but the future is uncertain—after all, it takes about 90 days to really break a habit. 

Today, I’m staring at the wine I’ve poured, a skin-contact white wine from Georgia that I bought and only drank half of on NYE. I let the glass sit next to me, untouched, as I eat Thai food. It’s like flirting across the room in a crowded bar. Its presence is constant. 

I didn’t think my day would end with a standoff because it went so well. After a successful morning grabbing coffee and answering emails, by midday I was overwhelmed with work and I felt the dizzying, free-fall need for something to calm my senses. I slipped on my Reeboks and went for a walk. It didn’t work. I came home and opened the fridge to pull out my water pitcher when I saw the half-full bottle. I had pangs of desire. Phantom sips slapped my palate. Would it be so bad? Maybe a half glass? No. One would turn to two. Work would slip into tomorrow. 

I needed a plan. 

I decided to prepare myself with substitutions. I chose work and non-alcoholic placebos. I pitched more articles in two days than I have in the past six months and went to Collins & Coupe to get a pack of Ghia Spritzes, a delightfully bitter, amaro-like, fizzy alternative to alcohol in a cute, well-packaged can. 

While at the El Cajon Boulevard cocktail haven, I chatted with the salesperson. She mentioned she doesn’t drink, and we discussed the state of the NA community in San Diego. She dropped names and places that I didn’t know—I was sheepish and excited about this relatively untapped community. She let me know about Grace Mestecky—a former non-alcoholic bar owner in Denver and craft bartender by trade—who moonlights (literally) at the cacao café Maya Moon with her weekend NA cocktail bar pop-up, Moon Flower.

I sped over to Adams Avenue, walked into the plant-laden Maya Moon, a place teeming with holistic sincerity, and asked for Mestecky. Full of vivacity and curls, she was eager to chat about her own sober curiosity and show off her skills in making a mocktail, abiding by the same tenets of cocktail-making: body, balance, and flavor. She makes me “The Core of the Earth,” a textural mocktail made of matcha and golden beets that are sous-vide in verjus blanc. It’s delicious. It’s complex. And it takes a while to drink, just like a cocktail. 

This concoction won her the title of 2024’s National Monin Cup Award. The Monin Cup is a global low-ABV and no-ABV mocktail competition sponsored by the company that makes those syrups that pump flavor into your coffee. Mestecky was even flown out to France for the finals where she lost out to a low-ABV competitor but still came in fourth.

With all this care going into her program, Mestecky is still confused why people are basically still drinking sodas as the only NA option—and why bars aren’t making curated alternatives. “People are still so skeptical about [mocktails] as a concept. Like, ‘Why don’t you just drink soda water?’ ‘Why don’t you just drink, like, Shirley Temples?’ When there’s so many other beautiful options.” 

But when there’s not those artful options, that’s when the temptation arises, even for Mestecky. “But then I’ll visit bars, and I’ll look and see nothing [NA] on their menu, right? That makes me—as a person who is very sober-curious and flip flops between times of drinking and times of not drinking—want to have alcohol.” She adds, “San Diego is an incredible craft cocktail scene, and I very rarely see a non-alcoholic menu that matches the level of quality of care.”

Perhaps that’s the problem. It seems you can only either be a child with a Shirley Temple or be an adult with a big ol’ martini. To split the difference, the placebo effect may be the right approach for me. Back in my living room, I dart my eyes over to the glass of wine. I’m not interested. I take the glass to the sink and dump it out. I pull out the bottle in the fridge and do the same. I crack open a Ghia soda and settle in for the night. 

Day One is down with some distractions and resources in my back pocket but I’ve got 29 to go. Wish me luck.

This is the first in a four-part series. Check back next week for updates on SDM staff writer Danielle Allaire’s month-long quest.

The post Dry January: An Unsolicited Sojourn in Sobriety appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

For years, I’ve been searching for a consciousness-altering, life-changing touch. A healing pain. The kind of muscular manipulation they outlawed centuries ago. I’ve explored high-dollar spas and in-home professionals¹ in pursuit of a more perfect bodywork. But none have scratched my itch. I’m needing something more, my own vision of what a rub-down can really be.

You know those steamrollers they use to flatten fresh asphalt? I want to be driven over by one of those. Pancaked. Scooshed like a toothpaste tube. I want a grand piano lowered upside down on top of me til I go flat and squeeze out the sides like a jelly sandwich. I want to stow away inside a garbage truck and feel the sweet crunch of the compactor, after a monster truck goes back and forth over me a few times. There are more than 600 muscles in the human body—I want each of them professionally abused.

Quite simply, I want to be wrung out like a sponge.

So, with a bit of finesse and an open-minded PR contact, I shaved my back and headed out in pursuit of an All-Day Massage².

I soon find myself sitting in the golf course parking lot at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, preparing to lie on a table for four consecutive massage sessions and wondering, Is there such a thing as too much good touch? I ponder the benefits of drinking water before I go. A desire for hydrated tissues and blood flowing silken through my veins is counteracted by not wanting to have to pee. So, I sip lightly and, with the bravery of a test pilot, head inside.

Two PR reps and the spa director greet me upon arrival. I’m made to understand that mine is a peculiar request. Yes, people combine massages and facials and foot rubs for a couple hours at a time, but this is different.

When I’d pitched the idea for an All-Day Massage, I was thinking big. Searching to find the far edge of what a massage can be. I’d hinted that six to eight hours would be ideal—but that less time may still allow me a solid glimpse of the truth I seek. The Spa at Torrey Pines offered four back-to-back 50-minute sessions of various specialities. I accepted³. With four, I’d at least know if I was onto something⁴.

In the eucalyptus-scented locker room, I disrobe, robe, and head to the waiting room for tea. Entering the small, LED-candle-lit treatment room that is to be my experiment lab, a quiet excitement takes hold. After all, a good massage can change your day, a great massage perhaps your week, so what might this massage change? My life? Will this be the back-rub ayahuasca I seek? Is ego death on the table?

The journey begins with a so-called Signature Massage. My therapist, Kirstan, works me head-to-toe—fingers in scalp, thumbs in instep. She has the touch, but I am not at once feeling squeezed like a zit. If this were a normal massage, I might be in my head—anxious or disappointed at not urgently having my body’s score wiped clean. But today, I settle into a new kind of calm. Instead of the main event, Kirstan’s session feels like a warmup, and, instead of feeling jittery, I relax, knowing that three more people will be kneading me like pizza dough.

Next up is a hot stone treatment with Ian. Hot stone massage has always sounded gimmicky to me, but when he slides the warm igneous ovals down my hairless back, I convert. My muscles break free of their restrictive fascia cocoons. Long-hardened tissue becomes soft muscle marmalade. Maybe this is working, I think. I still have hours to go.

After two sessions, I am indeed called to urinate⁵. Horizontal again, I begin to leave my body in a most extraordinary way.

Sometime during hour three, I travel through a door in my imagination to a place beyond sleep. Sitting quietly on the floor of a dimly lit room, I see thousands of screens playing what I understand to be all the dreams I will have for the remainder of my life. I’m excited to stay and watch, but I am suddenly jolted back into my body with a sinewy, incisive push.

My third therapist, Jeff, is scraping my trapezius with a gua sha stone, a kind of squeegee for muscles and lymphatic tissues. I feel my body unfolding like an origami crane returning to its crease-free origins, years of poor posture sighing in relief.

Like many whose lives are spent on a laptop, I tend to sit every way but correctly. My body is healthy but posturally unwell. I also happen to have a 2-year-old who treats me like a tackling dummy and climbs my spine like a stepladder, so, at times, I am sore. This is not unique. Some 30 percent of Americans say they suffer from chronic back pain. We all need more healing in our lives.

But good bodywork is not cheap. Money-wise, this is not an inexpensive experiment. The 50-minute Signature Massage at The Spa at Torrey Pines runs $235; the other services are more. All told, my four treatments would run upwards of $1,200 with gratuity.

A decadent endeavor, yes, but not unheard of when it comes to spa-day spending. If one has the money⁶, I imagine an All-Day Massage could prove a layup gift for anniversaries or birthdays or commemorating milestones and rites of passage—graduations, promotions, divorces. Getting wrung out is a great way to start a new chapter as an empty vessel. And who among us couldn’t benefit from that?

In hour four, I ride a waft of incense smoke back to semi-consciousness. A therapist named Jackie works a spicy spot between my shoulder blades with the savoir-faire of a virtuoso. This particular ache has been plaguing me for weeks, but, despite the day’s attention, it has yet to relent. However, as Jackie gently brings me back to reality, I notice calmness where there had been fury. It took time, but perhaps time is all I needed for that knot to untie.

Back in the fireplace-lit waiting room, I am desiccated and dry, ground into a paste. Sipping tea, I do a preliminary check to see if my All-Day Massage stripped my subjective sense of self-identity or if any unfortunate psychological and physiological effects passed down from my ancestors are resonating at a lower volume. It’s hard to say. A powerful headache is setting in; the rest will have to wait.

A shower, and I’m back on the road in I-5 traffic, slugging fluids and pondering Tylenol. In the days that follow, I notice my body feeling more pliable. I stretch more, sit straighter. After hours of being oiled, pressed, shaken, rubbed, and dug into with thumbs, elbows, and hot stones, I can say the experiment was a success. For those who seek the sweet release of a sponge-squeeze, an All-Day Massage might be the move. Just make sure you’re waterlogged first.

1. Once, thanks to Groupon, I found myself in a San Francisco apartment getting a martial arts massage I was told was usually done on the floor of a dojo. The strong therapist put his feet on the wall for leverage as he pushed his elbow into my upper glutes. The pain was breathtaking. I loved it.

2. Trademarking.

3. While wondering if this technically counts as a half-day.

4. I requested that the spa arrange for the therapists to come in with no breaks between. I wanted the feel of getting one incredibly long massage. I wanted overlap.

5. Knowing I should drink more water, I fail to do so. The heated table calls.

6. And many in La Jolla do.

The post I Tried It: The All-Day Massage appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Activate House

Start the year on the right foot with Activate House, the San Diego fitness studio and gym located in North Park offers spin, sculpt, and yoga classes. Calling themselves a “new-age fitness studio,” AH emphasizes intentional training through movement and encourages mental balance and well-being. The sense of community the studio cultivates is accentuated with eucalyptus towels, a juice bar, and highly trained staff.

2855 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92104

Black Girls Run

Hit the pavement with Black Girls Run, a community that’s working to tackle obesity and motivate women to get out and move their bodies. Created in 2009, Black Girls Run has served the San Diego fitness scene as a resource for those looking to practice a healthy lifestyle, whether you’re an avid gym-goer or looking to start a fitness regimen. With national meet-ups already planned throughout the year, this movement is determined to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the community.

Various locations

Body University

Regardless of your fitness level, Body University in La Mesa caters to individuals’ needs and goals. The boutique gym offers small group private training services (6-8 people at a time) and focuses solely on one-hour weight lifting sessions. Though open to all gender identities, you’ll most often find it packed with women only, which can be less intimidating for women who may be new to lifting. BU also offers body building competition services as well as customized nutrition programs and lifestyle guidance. With fitness equipment including free weights, cardio equipment, personal training, and highly trained staff, you’re sure to achieve your wellness goals.

6062 Lake Murray Blvd. #205, La Mesa, CA 91942

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CorePower Yoga

A staple in the San Diego fitness scene, CorePower Yoga offers both yoga and high-intensity strength training classes. Their newest class, Strength X focuses on helping you build lean muscles via targeted weight circuits and invigorating breath work. Five San Diego studios are hosting Strength X classes currently, and the Point Loma studio also offers scholarships to the CorePower Yoga Teacher Training program for BIPOC.

Various locations

Wheelchair Dance Organization Inclusive Dance

Wheelchair Dance Organization (WDO) Inclusive Dance is making dance more accessible for everyone. The nonprofit organization works to decrease feelings of isolation among those living with disabilities by building a community of dancers at any and all levels. The variety of dance classes offered—Latin jazz, samba reggae, hip hop, Bollywood—are free, taught by professionals, and include modifications for those in wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

The Experience Fitness and Mobility Studio

When the Experience Fitness and Mobility Studio came onto the San Diego fitness scene, they were dedicated to creating a safe space for anyone wanting to reach their health and fitness goals, regardless of identity, race, age, sexual preference, or athletic ability. The openly LGBTQ, wife-owned gym offers a place to reach your fitness aspirations. With a variety of training styles and methodology, you’ll build muscle, improve your range of motion, and eliminate pain. Beyond physical fitness, studio recognizes the inclusion of mental and emotional well-being for overall health and wellness.

1264 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92103

Madhouse Dance

Spice up your workouts with dance fitness classes at Madhouse Dance. The nightclub-inspired studio is a welcome place to try out fitness choreography and get your heart racing through movement. Daily classes include chair choreography, beginners heels, and the studio’s flagship dance cardio. These classes are only open to women, non-binary, and femme-identifying individuals. If you want to try out Madhouse Dance from home, their website also features on-demand dance workouts.

1189 Morena Blvd., San Diego, CA 92110

P.volve

P.volve, a fitness company in La Jolla offers low-impact workouts paired with resistance equipment. Focusing on functional movement, P.volve (or Personal Evolution) classes work to activate and strengthen multiple muscles at once. While shaping and toning your body, you’ll also be improving mobility and balance, for a well-rounded workout.

4575 La Jolla Village Dr. #1172, San Diego, CA 92122

StretchLab

True health and strength goes beyond hitting the gym and getting your steps in. StretchLab in Little Italy opened in 2022 and promotes a balanced body through stretching to help improve posture and reduce stress. With one-on-one and group stretch classes available, the sessions will help improve sports performance, decrease joint pain, and increase your range of motion and flexibility.

880 W. Ash St., San Diego, CA 92101

Stride Fitness

If cardio is the name of your game, but you’re not a fan of running alone, are new to it, or want to change up your running game, head to Stride Fitness in Little Italy for treadmill-based interval training. Designed for walkers, joggers, and runners alike, Stride Fitness offers a full-body cardio and strength workout in three class formats: The Stride, The Combo, and The Core. The classes provide a variety of workout combinations, while a leveling system allows participants to run at their own speed.

785 W. Ash St., San Diego, CA 92101

The post 10 San Diego Fitness Classes & Activities for the New Year appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Annie’s Canyon Trail

This hike is a rare find: It’s relatively short, easy, and flat, but it also boasts truly unparalleled landscapes that you can’t get anywhere else in the region. People won’t believe they’re in San Diego instead of Zion Canyon or some other spot with steep walls and cool rock formations. It’s a white slot canyon that has become quite famous on Instagram, especially after officials worked to clean up the graffiti that used to cover the walls. Your guests will be thrilled to take cool photos to show off when they go home.

• Directions: Park at 150 Solana Point Circle in Solana Beach and follow the trail east to get to Annie’s Canyon. Don’t use Google Maps! You’ll avoid climbing a very steep hill along the highway.
• Distance: 1.2 miles out and back
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dogs: Allowed, but don’t try to bring them up the ladders in the canyon
• Details: Parking is free.

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Old Sea World Drive

This path along the San Diego River makes you feel like you’re walking straight out into the ocean. It has beautiful views of the bay and the river and cool seaside breezes—it offers the quintessential San Diego waterside stroll experience. Plus, your friends or family will think you’re an in-the-know insider when you pull up to this secluded path. Follow it out straight and west, and when you reach the turnaround point that sticks out into the ocean, you’ll get the sense you’re standing at the edge of the world.

• Distance: 4.5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Dogs: Allowed
• Details: Park on the lot just off Friars Road.

Balboa Park Seven Bridges Hike

Guests—especially kids—will love this fun, urban hike that takes you across all seven pedestrian bridges scattered around Balboa Park. It feels like taking secret passageways through the heart of San Diego. Plus, the swinging suspension bridge on Spruce Street is sure to thrill and entertain. 

• Difficulty level: Moderate
• Length: 6.5 miles for the loop
• Dogs: Allowed
• Details: Park on Park Boulevard near the San Diego Zoo and take the pedestrian bridge to the Desert Garden. Then, walk back through the park to the Cabrillo Bridge over the 163. Follow Laurel Avenue, then turn right on First Avenue to the First Avenue Bridge, then turn right on Quince Street to cross the Quince Street Bridge. From there, turn left on Fourth Avenue and left on Spruce Street to cross the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge. Walk through Hillcrest to University Avenue, then through the Trader Joe’s shopping area to the Vermont Street Bridge. Follow Lincoln Avenue to Georgia Street, and take the short Georgia Street Bridge over University Avenue, then follow Robinson Street back to Park Boulevard where you started. 

The post 3 San Diego Hikes to Wow Your Out-of-Town Guests appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Ride a Rollercoaster in Mission Bay

The century-old Belmont Park is essentially a year-round carnival right on the Mission Beach boardwalk. Thrill seekers will enjoy the adrenaline-boosting—and iconic—Giant Dipper roller coaster as it hits speeds up to 48 miles per hour as well as the views from the top of Zero Gravity before it plunges from the sky. Those looking for less thrill and more chill can climb the rock wall or play a round of Tiki Town mini golf or laser tag. No carnival-type experience is complete without the food, and Belmont delivers exactly what you’re looking for. Salty carbs? Wetzel’s Pretzels will satisfy that craving. Need something sweet? Head to the Sweet Shoppe for Moo Time Creamery ice cream. 

3146 Mission Blvd, Mission Beach

Join a Local Sports League

Just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean the fun has to stop. Consider joining Volo Sports, San Diego’s largest co-ed adult sports organization featuring volleyball, soccer, kickball, and softball leagues. Or, for the less-athletic among us, challenge other locals to lawn games like cornhole and skeeball. Volo’s leagues are organized by skill level and day of the week, making it easy to find one that fits your busy schedule. Many leagues meet after work hours, providing a convenient way to stay active and social. Membership fees start at around $25 per person or $133 per team.

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Sleep Near Lions in Escondido

If you spend the night at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Roar & Snore, you’re in for an action-packed adventure all the way till nighttime. Each sleepover includes after-hours peeks at wildlife, guided walks, meals and, of course, campfire s’mores. Accommodations range from classic tents with sleeping pads to better situated “Vista” tents with a view and cots, to full-on glamping tents with queen beds and wood floors. The Roar & Snore nights are themed to accommodate specific groups, such as adults only or families. Upgrade your visit to also include a zipline ride, a night vision safari and a wildlife ambassador meeting. Located within sight of the lion camp, you’ll likely get a lion wake-up call, er, roar.

15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido

Take the Ferry to Coronado 

Gain a new perspective on the San Diego skyline by taking the passenger ferry across the bay to Coronado Island. Catch the ferry from either 5th Avenue (behind the Convention Center) or the Broadway Pier just north of the USS Midway. Ferries depart hourly. Then walk along the waterfront to Centennial Park for a stunning panorama of downtown. Grab dinner at one of the local bay-facing restaurants—Little Frenchie for upscale dining; Village Pizzeria Bayside for a less formal bite. Afterward, snag a seasonal latte from Coronado Coffee Company or a made-from-scratch macaron at Parfait Paris French bakery. Just don’t miss the last ferry back to San Diego—9:30 or 10:30 p.m., depending on the day of the week.

1201 1st St, Coronado

Get Spooked in an Old Town Haunted House

Take a guided evening tour of the legendary Whaley House, touted as “the most haunted house in America” and as seen on the Travel, SyFy and Discovery channels. This 1857 home is said to have been destined to be haunted, as it was built on the site of the original Old Town gallows where the infamous thief James “Yankee Jim” Robinson was hanged. Later, several members of the Whaley family died in the house. 

On the 30- to 40-minute guided tour, you’ll hear all about the legacy and legends of the Whaley family, and you might even experience the paranormal (recommended for ages 13 and up). Even if you don’t believe in the paranormal, you can still appreciate this California Historical Landmark for its Greek Revival architecture and fine mahogany furnishings.

2476 San Diego Ave, Old Town

Stargaze with the San Diego Astronomy Association (SDAA)

The 60-year-old SDAA is a non-profit educational organization dedicated to teaching people about astronomy. As part of its mission, it hosts regular stargazing opportunities around the county that are free and open to anyone eager to learn. The SDAA hosts public sky viewing events outside the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center at Balboa Park on the first Wednesday of the month, as well as sky observing sessions (“star parties”) at its 10-acre site in East County. On the third Wednesday of the month, you’ll find them giving a lecture at Mission Trails Regional Park. Check the events calendar to find the latest info on an event (some are canceled due to inclement weather), then grab some hot cocoa and a warm jacket to enjoy some time under the stars. 

Catch a Show at The Old Globe

Balboa Park’s Old Globe is California’s oldest professional theater and San Diego’s largest theater organization. Its theater complex, located right behind the Museum of Us, features three stages that host 15 productions and 600 performances annually. You can view anything from Broadway hits and musicals straight from London to modern plays and Shakespearean classics. The Globe was originally built for Shakespearean productions as part of the California Pacific International Exposition in 1935, and it honors that history with a Shakespearean Festival each summer, showcasing two of the Bard’s plays under the night sky.

1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park

Cheer for the Padres at Petco Park

Will this be our year? Join thousands of hopeful Pads fans at a home game in what we will confidently declare America’s most picturesque ballpark. Enjoy the views of the Coronado Bridge, the San Diego Bay and downtown skyline from the upper decks, then enjoy some tasty local flavor from regionally based favorites. Chow down on a burger from Hodad’s, loaded fries from Carnitas’ Snack Shack or a shrimp taco from Blue Water Seafood. On Saturdays before first pitch, you can arrive early to hear the Padres House Band play a mix of country, pop and oldies in Gallagher Square, then take your seats to cheer among the Friar Faithful. 

100 Park Blvd, East Village

View Open-Air Live Entertainment at Moonlight Amphitheatre

Expect more than community theater–level performances: Moonlight Stage Productions brings high-quality musical theater to Vista’s Brengle Terrace Park by utilizing regional Broadway and professional on-stage talent, pro designers and crews, and a full orchestra. This outdoor venue has staged more than 200 shows in its four-plus decades of existence, and every summer you can expect a lineup of Broadway musical hits under the stars. 

Take your pick of lawn seating (with provided lawn chairs) or stadium-style seating, and you can bring food and nonalcoholic beverages with you for your own picnic. Or opt for a gourmet grilled cheese and a bowl of coconut curry tomato soup at the Bread & Cheese Eatery concessionaire on-site. In between musical theater performances, the stage hosts live music entertainment year-round, ranging from tribute bands to contemporary favorites.

1250 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista

Watch a Movie at the South Bay Drive-in Theater

Head south to Imperial Beach to enjoy a film at San Diego County’s last operating drive-in theater, which has been in operation since 1958. You can catch any genre, from kid-friendly animation to comedies to sci-fi, on one of the three screens. The drive-in is an affordable family entertainment option, or it can be a great way to change up your date night routine. Grab some popcorn or carne asada nachos from the snack bar (or BYO snacks and non-alcoholic drinks), tune in through your FM radio, and enjoy the show. Depending on the movie, you might even get to catch a double feature. The theater is open seven days a week year-round, rain or shine. 

2170 Coronado Ave, Imperial Beach

Listen to Live Jazz

Bop to bebop in live weekly jazz sessions hosted in a studio in Barrio Logan, adjacent to Chicano Park. And the best part? The Future Is Color Studio Sessions are free to attend, open to all ages. The “experience series” explores the power of music and art to break down barriers. Opened in 2020, the sessions have grown to support emerging artists and connect communities. Both indoor and outdoor seating are offered, and an RSVP is suggested. Select wine and drinks are available to purchase but are not central to the experience.

 2060 Logan Ave, Barrio Logan

Roam the Oceanside Sunset Market

Part street fair, part farmers’ market and part live entertainment venue, this market has been a favorite evening activity for locals since 2007. With more than 200 vendors spread across four city blocks, there is something for everyone. Grab dinner at the international food court, which provides options from American classics to European fare and Latin-American specialties. If you brought the family, then swing by Dorothy’s KidZone for some children’s activities. Arts and crafts vendors offer unique gifts while you enjoy the live musical entertainment.

401 Pier View Wy, Oceanside

Grab a Non-Alcoholic Beverage

San Diego’s non-alcoholic beverage scene is expanding with a few new options on the horizon. Good News bar, set to open in early 2025 in University Heights, has already generated buzz as “San Diego’s first non-alcoholic bar and bottle shop.” But, until then, check out spots like Maya Moon Collective in Normal Heights, which specializes in cacao-based, alcohol-free drinks. Open until 9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, this cozy venue doubles as a “third space,” offering weekly events like sound healing sessions, art exhibits, and cooking classes. Or Monday Morning, an alcohol-free bottle shop and tasting room in Pacific Beach to try some of the best NA beverages in town. 

The post 13 Alcohol-Free Things to Do in San Diego at Night appeared first on San Diego Magazine.

Coronado Golf Course

Coronado Golf Course, opened in 1957, is one of San Diego’s more walkable courses. Cited as a top SD course by the Golf Channel, the well-maintained public course offers views of the Coronado bridge and boats out on the water. The onsite restaurant serves American bites (including vegan options) for brunch and lunch.

2000 Visalia Row, Coronado

Torrey Pines Golf Course

Consistently ranked as one of Golf Digest’s 100 greatest courses, the challenging Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla hosted the 2021 US Open and puts on the annual PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open. Named after the rare Torrey Pine tree, which only grows along the San Diego coastline and Santa Rosa Island, the course has made its way onto many golfers’ bucket lists.

11480 N Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla

The Grand Golf Club

Located at the luxurious Fairmont Grand Del Mar, The Grand Golf Club and its 50,000-square-foot driving range are open to hotel guests. Three-hundred-and-sixty degree views of each hole are available online, helping give you a leg up if you’re trying to improve your handicap. And if your kiddo dreams of becoming a future Masters champion, this course is the perfect place to take them, as children 12 and under can play and rent clubs for free.

5300 Grand Del Mar Way, Del Mar

Aviara Golf Club

Aviara Golf Club is San Diego’s only course designed by the legendary Arnold Palmer. Situated within Carlsbad’s Park Hyatt Aviara, this layout includes strategically placed bunkers and water features that provide both pretty views and tough obstacles. And, if you’d like to level up your gear game, the course’s TaylorMade Aviara Performance Center allows you to test clubs with 3D motion analysis technology. The club offers both public and resort fees, as well as online course videos that provide insight into hole details and potential strategies.

7447 Batiquitos Drive, Carlsbad

Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course

Designed by golf course architect William Francis Bell, the Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course has hosted both PGA and LPGA events. Its 18th hole, surrounded by old-growth trees, is a fan favorite. Golf lessons are also available at the Carlsbad course, whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned golfer needing a couple tips or tweaks.

17550 Bernardo Oaks Dr, Rancho Bernardo

Singing Hills Golf Club

Singing Hills Golf Club supplies golfers with three courses in the Dehesa Valley of San Diego County. The Willow Glen course runs along the Sweetwater River and features narrow fairways, while the Oak Glen course is known for rolling greens and a beautiful, yet difficult, fifth hole. The nine-hole Pine Glen course is ideal for beginners or those looking to squeeze in a quick round. 

3007 Dehesa Road, El Cajon

Mt. Woodson Golf Club

The course at Mt. Woodson Golf Club in Ramona is tough—but you don’t need to worry about having an audience for any whiffs. Each hole is so secluded it’ll feel like you and your buddies are the only ones on the course. Open to the public and surrounded by serene, rocky hills, the club also houses a bar and grill with some of the best prices in town (hello, post-birdie BLT for under $9). 

16422 North Woodson Drive, Ramona

Goat Hill Park Golf Club

Originally built in 1952, Oceanside’s Goat Hill Park Golf Club was one of the first golf courses in San Diego County and began as a regulation-length nine-hole setup. In the early 1990s, it was redesigned into an 18-hole course, enhancing its appeal to golfers seeking a fun time on the links and a laid-back atmosphere.

2323 Goat Hill Drive, Oceanside

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Admiral Baker Golf Course

Admiral Baker Golf Course, located within the historic Navy complex near Tierrasanta, is notable for its two distinct 18-hole courses—the North and South. The lush fairways and well-maintained greens are complemented by facilities like a driving range and eatery.

2400 Admiral Baker Road, No. 3604, Tierrasanta

Carlton Oaks Golf Club

Once Phil Mickelson’s playing spot in his youth, Santee’s Carlton Oaks Golf Club has hosted a range of golf tournaments and events, including the Callaway Junior World Championships and NCAA Championships. The course tests players with pot bunkers and water hazards while still highlighting the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

9200 Inwood Drive, Santee

Maderas Golf Club

Maderas Golf Club is a championship public course that winds through the rolling hills of Poway. Its 40 acres have been recognized by numerous golf publications. Players can rent Callaway clubs and also book lessons for themselves or their little golfers.

17750 Old Coach Road, Poway

Steele Canyon Golf Club

A 27-hole championship course in Jamul, Steele Canyon Golf Club was designed by Gary Player, one of golf’s all-time greats. Three nine-hole courses—The Canyon, The Ranch, and The Vineyard—offer diverse and challenging holes, earning the club a four-and-a-half-star rating from Golf Digest (it’s one of only three golf clubs in San Diego County with that honor).

3199 Stonefield Drive, Jamul

The Crossings at Carlsbad

Named after the bridges designed into the layout, The Crossings at Carlsbad offers a variety of terrains and elevation changes. Each hole features five separate areas to tee off, allowing players to customize both the length of the hole and their overall strategy. There are also stay-and-play rates and tee times for players through specific Carlsbad hotels and resorts.

5800 The Crossings Drive, Carlsbad

Rams Hill Golf Club

Nestled in the Anza-Borrego Desert is the Rams Hill Golf Club, a previously private but now public course that features captivating views of the mountains. The design tests golfers, especially the fifth hole, which includes deep bunkers and sits next to a lake you’ll have to work hard to keep your ball out of. 

1881 Rams Hill Road, Borrego Springs

Encinitas Ranch

Perched on a sweep of bluffs, Encinitas Ranch Golf Course offers magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean from every hole, making it one of the most picturesque courses in Southern California. The course offers rates for the public, with special discounts for Encinitas and Southern California residents. Encinitas Ranch includes the usual driving range and chipping green, along with a putting course that features two sets of six holes, a windmill, and benches if you’d rather crack open a cold one and watch your friends warm up.

1275 Quail Gardens Drive, Encinitas

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