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Partner Content FEBRUARY 20, 2024

Best Vitamins For Healthy Hair, Skin & Nails In 2024

Vitamins play a major role in improving our skin texture and hair. Here are some of the best vitamins for healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Best Vitamins For Healthy Hair, Skin & Nails In 2024

We all want lustrous hair, radiant, glowing skin, and strong nails, but achieving these can often feel like an uphill battle against genetics, time, pollution, and the environment. But have you ever thought that the problem lies in what we eat and the creams and conditioners we apply?

It has already been proved in several studies that incorporating the best vitamins for hair, nails, and skin brings life to them and helps you achieve the hair, skin, and nails you always wanted. However, as we live in a world where choices are more abundant than ever, zeroing down on the best vitamin supplements can be rather daunting. 

Thus, today, we are bringing you a list of the best hair, skin, and nail vitamins that target common beauty hurdles like brittle nails, lifeless hair, and dull skin. Our team has researched several brands available in the market and curated this list with all its supplements surpassing the most similar products in terms of how safe they are and how well they work. 

Our Choice For Best Vitamins For Hair, Skin, And Nails

1. Riti: Overall Best Vitamins For Hair, Skin And Nails

2. Nuzena: Best Vegan-Friendly Vitamins For Hair, Skin And Nails

3. Doublewoodsupplements: Best Hair, Nail and Skin Supplement with Biotin & Collagen

4. Vitboosts: Best Vitamin In An Easy To Consume Liquid Form

5. Nature’s Bounty: Best For Enhanced Metabolism Along With Hair, Skin & Nails

6. Nature Made: Best Vitamin Supplement For Skin 

7. Olly: Best Vitamin For Hair, Skin, And Nails In Delicious Gummies Form

#1. Riti – Overall Best Vitamins For Hair, Skin And Nails

Riti is the first brand on our list of the best hair, skin, and nail supplements for the uncompromising quality of its products. 

The ingredient list of the supplement is an impressive blend of the best and most treasured compounds for beauty enhancement and repair. Compounds like vitamins A, C, E, B6, B12, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, sodium, zinc, iodine, fish collagen, PABA, and silicon from bamboo leaf extract work on strengthening your hair and improving skin texture.

These vitamins for hair, skin, and nails are curated to support your beauty regime from the inside out.  The biotin present in the supplement is often called the ‘hair growth vitamin’, and rightly so, as it is great for promoting hair growth and strengthening your hair’s keratin structure. 

The fish collagen, on the other hand, promotes elasticity in the skin and makes it youthful and firm. The silicon from bamboo leaf extract also helps in the collagen synthesis process. The vitamin mix in these gummies is known for improving hair vibrancy and volume and allowing the scalp to absorb nutrients faster. 

Available in the passion fruit flavor, Riti hair, skin, and nail gummies are a perfect solution to all your beauty issues. 

Pros:

  • 25% off on subscription
  • Impressive compound mix with potent ingredients
  • Third-party lab tested for quality
  • Promotes collagen synthesis for improved skin texture
  • Non-GMO and no artificial additives
  • Gluten-free and gelatin-free

Cons: 

  • It contains added sugars

Price

$49.95 for one pack of 60 gummies 

Serving Size

2 gummies once daily 

Form

Gummy

=> Click here to visit the official website “Riti”

#2. Nuzena – Best Vegan-Friendly Vitamins For Hair, Skin And Nails

Gluten-free, vegan-friendly, non-GMO, sugar-free, dairy-free, soy-free, eco-friendly, and lab-tested – and all of that is what makes Nuzena supplements find the 2nd spot on our list of the best supplements for hair, skin, and nails. 

All the ingredients used in the supplement are natural and clinically proven. Thus, the product comes without any harmful additives and allergens. The primary ingredients in the supplement are biotin and B vitamins.

Biotin helps improve hair quality, volume, and growth by producing amino acids (essential for hair growth) and is also a good ingredient for improving nail strength and skin nourishment. Other B vitamins like B12 and B6 encourage healthy cell rejuvenation, reducing acne and inflammation and balancing the hormones to support skin and hair health. 

Pros:

  • Free shipping over $50
  • Non-GMO formula
  • No added hormones
  • High concentration of biotin 
  • Suitable for both men and women
  • Includes a variety of vitamins and minerals to enhance skin and hair health

Cons: 

  • It may take time to show the results
  • High concentrations of biotin may not be suitable for everyone

Price

$30 for a bottle of 60 gummies 

Serving Size

1 capsule daily 

Form

Capsule 

=> Click here to visit the official website “Nuzena”

#3. Double Wood Supplements – Best Hair, Nail And Skin Supplement With Biotin & Collagen

The 3rd brand on our list of the best hair, skin, and nail vitamins is Doublewoodsupplements, which is popular for its quality and vegan-friendly ingredients. 

Their hair, skin, and nail supplement is rooted in science and backed by technology. Not only are they transparent about their third-party lab test results and Certificate of Analysis (COA), but they also place utmost importance on the quality and sourcing of their ingredients. 

The Collagen Biotin gummies by Doublewoodsupplements use a proprietary blend of ingredients like 2500 mg biotin, zinc, vitamins C and E, and hydrogen collagen. It is a potent mix because while collagen improves the healing process of the skin from within, other ingredients like vitamins and biotin work in line to improve hair texture and nail strength. 

It offers an all-round solution for hair, skin, nails, as well as joint health. For skin and nails, biotin can be extremely beneficial in improving firmness and elasticity. That’s because biotin helps in protein synthesis and keratin production, which is essential and contributes to stronger hair and nails. 

Pros:

  • Proprietary blend of potent ingredients like biotin and collagen
  • Non-GMO verified
  • Gluten-free, soy-free, vegan-friendly
  • 15% off on a subscription
  • Just 15 calories per gummy
  • Third-party lab tested

Cons: 

  • No flavors available 

Price

$19.95 for a bottle of 30 gummies 

Serving Size

2 gummies every day with or without food. 

Form

Gummy

=> Click here to visit the official website “Doublewoodsupplements”

#4. Vitboosts – Best Vitamin In An Easy To Consume Liquid Form

The Vitboosts biotin supplement is a powerhouse of ingredients to enhance your hair, skin, and nails. It uses the highest potency, 10000 mcg biotin (vitamin B7), for maximum absorption. 

Known for its role in hair growth and improving skin texture, biotin is a key compound in this formula. It produces fatty acids in our body, essential to nourish the skin and hair from within. So, it’s a perfect product for anyone suffering from hair thinning, hair loss, and hair breakage. 

It comes in an easy-to-consume liquid form in a natural flavor. The formulation is such that it is easily absorbed by the body. It helps diminish signs of aging and fortify your nails and hair. So, with regular intake of the best supplement for hair, nails, and skin by Vitboosts, you may get potential benefits like thicker and fuller hair, reduced breakage, hydrated skin, and stronger nails. 

Moreover, the VitBoost supplement is completely free of any added sugar and gluten. It is also non-GMO verified. It’s also cruelty-free and does not include any artificial fillers. This potent 10000 mcg formula is an all-in-one solution for both men and women.  

Pros:

  • Organic berry flavor
  • 10000 mcg formula
  • No added sugar or artificial fillers
  • Gluten-free, cruelty-free 
  • Non-GMO
  • Suitable for both men and women

Cons: 

  • Users may take time to see the results

Price

$17.95 for a 30 ml bottle 

Serving Size

0.5 ml daily 

Form

Liquid

=> Click here to visit the official website “Vitboosts”

#5. Nature’s Bounty: Best For Enhanced Metabolism Along With Hair, Skin & Nails

Nature’s Bounty is one of those brands that prioritizes science and innovation in their products. Their jelly beans are a complete package if you want an improved metabolism, strengthened hair and nails, and luxurious skin. 

As a part of their commitment to quality, Nature’s Bounty sources ingredients from suppliers that meet their quality requirements and GMP standards. Their skin, hair, and nail vitamins come as jelly beans in mixed berry, strawberry, and watermelon natural flavors. They are non-GMO certified and do not contain any artificial sweeteners, flavors, lactose, or soy. 

These are easily among the best dietary supplements packed with 6000 mg of Biotin, keratin, and vitamins A, C, and E. The high concentration of biotin (Vitamin B7) means that it will help your body convert food into energy and thus improve the overall hair and skin appearance. 

All of these ingredients are extremely potent in supporting hair, skin, and nail health. Adults can take two gummies daily. 

Pros:

  • High concentration of biotin (6000 mg)
  • Blends potent ingredients like keratin, Vit A, C, and E
  • No artificial sweeteners, lactose, or soy
  • Easy-to-chew jelly bean form
  • Comes in 3 natural flavors

Cons: 

  • Contains added sugars (3 mg per serving)
  • Not suitable for vegans

Price

$23.41 for a bottle of 80 gummies

Serving Size

For adults, two jelly beans daily after meals. 

Form

Jelly beans

=> Click here to visit the official website “Nature’s Bounty”

#6. Nature Made – Best Vitamin Supplement For Skin 

Nature Made’s hair, skin, and nails vitamin supplement is great if you’re looking for one that supports your overall beauty regime. It includes a blend of ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, biotin 2500 mcg, and sodium, each playing a vital role in strengthening and nourishing your hair and skin. Other ingredients include glucose syrup, sugar, water, gelatin, citric acid, sodium citrate, palm oil, lactic acid, natural flavors, and carnauba wax. 

Vitamin C is one of the top vitamins used in all kinds of beauty products as well as supplements. It has numerous benefits for your skin and hair. For example, it boosts collagen production, which strengthens your hair follicles and enhances the elasticity of your skin. It is also a powerful antioxidant, which protects your skin from premature aging caused by oxidative stress and skin damage induced by free radicals. It repairs skin, reduces the appearance of scars and marks, and brightens it. 

Especially for hair, vitamin C and biotin is an intense combination. While vitamin C increases the absorption of iron in your body, which is an essential mineral for hair growth, biotin supports the keratin production of your hair, making it healthier and stronger. 

Moreover, Nature Made has received numerous reviews from happy customers who have seen tangible benefits from using this product regularly. 

Pros:

  • A powerful mix of biotin and vitamin c
  • Third-party tested
  • USP verified
  • Gluten-free
  • No artificial flavors, sweeteners, or synthetic dyes

Cons: 

  • Contains added sugar
  • Not vegan-friendly

Price

$10.69 for a bottle of 90 gummies

Serving Size

2 gummies daily for adults

Form

Gummy

=> Click here to visit the official website “Nature made”

#7. Olly – Best Vitamin For Hair, Skin, And Nails In Delicious Gummies Form

Packed in yummy little red gummies, the Olly vitamin supplement for hair, skin, and nails is another popular product on our list. Olly has an extensive ingredient list, including biotin, keratin, vitamin E (d-alpha tocopheryl acetate), and vitamin C (ascorbic acid). There are also a few other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the gummies, like beet sugar, citric acid, pectin, glucose syrup, natural coloring, and carnauba wax. 

Olly is one supplement that targets your hair growth more than anything else. It balances biotin and keratin to reduce hair thinning and improve conditions like scanty and oily scalps. The vitamin C in the mixture is a key ingredient that you’ll find in most supplements because of its benefits, like boosting collagen production, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation, protecting the skin from UV damage, and brightening the skin with a healthy glow. 

These gummies have a delectable grapefruit taste that’s neither overpowering nor too bland. So, it’s ideal if you prefer flavored gummies. They’re colored using natural ingredients like apples, radishes, sweet potatoes, cherries, blueberries, and carrots. 

Olly supplements are also NSF certified, which means these have been independently tested for safety, quality, and claims. 

Pros:

  • NSF certified
  • 15% off on a subscription
  • Intense ingredient list with biotin, keratin, and essential vitamins
  • Delightful grapefruit taste
  • No artificial colors or fillers
  • Gluten-free
  • Fast shipping & easy returns

Cons: 

  • Not-vegan friendly
  • Slightly more expensive than similar products

Price

$13.99 for a bottle of 60 gummies

Serving Size

Chew two gummies daily

Form

Gummy

What Are The Best Vitamins For Hair, Skin And Nails?

You don’t need a cabinet full of fancy supplements for your skin, nails, or hair; only the right ingredients would work great. Our research says you require a few key ingredients like omega-3s, biotin (vitamin B7), zinc, and other vitamins like C and E to maintain your skin and hair.

Biotin (Vitamin B7): If you’re struggling with thinning hair or brittle nails, biotin or Vitamin B7 is your best bet. By strengthening your hair’s keratin (protein) structure, it boosts hair growth and reduces hair fall. For the skin, it improves the production of fatty acids, nourishing and revitalizing your overall appearance. 

Omega 3: Omega-3 fatty acids go beyond just hydration. It manages oil production in your skin, reduces signs of aging and inflammation, and prevents acne. It is a key component of supplements that treat skin diseases like eczema and psoriasis. Apart from its benefits in maintaining healthy skin, it also improves scalp health and nourishes the hair follicles, reducing problems like itchiness, dryness, and flakiness. 

Vitamins: Vitamins like C and E are vital for your skin’s elasticity and firmness and are thus used in most anti-aging products. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that aids collagen (protein) synthesis in your skin. So, it protects the skin from UV and pollution damage, heals it, and reduces wrinkles. 

Zinc and Iron: These minerals are also ingredients to keep on your radar for their cell regenerative properties. These work well if you want to ease inflammation and repair the skin. 

With our research, we figured that Riti’s gummies are the best hair, skin, and nail vitamins because of their exceptional ingredient list that blends all these key compounds to support skin and hair health. 

But then again, it’s important to remember that supplements are but supplemental. That means you must also focus on maintaining a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting good sleep. 

How To Choose The Best Hair, Skin, And Nails Vitamins?

The market is flooded with products claiming to be the best supplements for hair, skin, and nails. But how many of them really live up to the claim? Only a handful. 

So, it’s vital that you research the best fit product, know the ingredients you must look for, and understand their usage before you invest in any product. 

Ingredients:

Focus on the key ingredients, like omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, vitamin C, and zinc. So, if you’re facing hair fall or damaged skin, go for biotin and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin C is useful if you want something to help with wrinkles and aging.  You can also look for products that combine these ingredients to give you a more balanced nutrient mix. 

Also, check for any compound you may be allergic to, and if you find any, look for a different product. 

Forms:

Hair, skin, and nails vitamins generally come in forms like gummies, tablets, powders, and even capsules. The form does not essentially impact the efficacy of the product but may have different absorption rates. With several forms available, you can choose the one that best suits your consumption preference.

Certifications:

Most hair, nails, and skin supplements are not FDA-approved, so you need to be extra cautious. Look for certifications and third-party lab results to see if the product is worth what it claims to be. Certifications like non-GMO or USP-verified are good indicators of safety. 

Dosage:

Remember, more is not always better when it comes to potent ingredients like biotin or vitamin C. If you thought gulping down a couple of pills every day would give you faster results, that’s not going to happen, or the situation may worsen. 

The best supplements for hair and skin have a suggested dosage on the product label or their official website. Try to follow the recommended dosage or, better, get help from a healthcare professional. 

Pricing: 

Pricing will vary from brand to brand. So, keeping in mind your budget, look for the best hair, skin, and nail supplement brands that use ethical and high-quality ingredients at affordable prices. But do not compromise on the quality of ingredients for cheaper options. While cheaper options are easier on the pocket, they may not eventually offer the same value or results you’re looking for.

Brand Reputation:

Researching a brand is more important than you think. For example, a brand that has never received a review or has no footprint other than its official website may not be the best choice. Not only do you not know if their ingredients are genuine, but you also do not have any reviews to support their claim. A reputed or renowned brand is more likely to have better quality check procedures to ensure their product is effective and safe. 

How We Made The List Of Best Hair, Skin, And Nail Vitamins?

Whenever we create a list of recommended products, our focus is to do our due diligence in researching the products, their efficacy, and whether they’re genuinely beneficial to buyers, and a similar procedure has been followed while curating the list of the best supplements for hair, skin, and nails

Research: In the case of finding supplements for skin and hair, our first step was in-depth research. Even before we started vetting products, we analyzed the market to understand what our audience was struggling with, what they wanted in a product, and why. 

People struggle with hair thinning, hair fall, brittle nails, and skin issues like premature aging or excessive dryness. These problems can stem from several issues, like environmental factors, genetic disorders, or even nutritional deficiency. This meant only topical treatments wouldn’t be enough to fill these nutritional gaps. So, we started looking for supplements that can help. 

Ingredients: Now we know the issues users face and the ingredients needed for hair and skin supplements to treat them – biotin for hair and nails, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C for skin, etc. We found products that included most of these key ingredients in a balanced nature without any unnecessary fillers and additives. 

Products: We combed through hundreds of products, reviews, feedback, and expert opinions. We evaluated several good hair, skin and nail vitamin based supplements on ingredients, quality, sourcing practices, certifications, brand reputation, and reviews. 

Certifications and Brand Analysis: Our preferred products were tested by third parties and ensured quality and safety. We looked for supplements with certifications from institutions like ConsumerLab, USP, and NSF. Apart from these indicators, we also conducted an independent brand analysis for each product. While not all of our recommendations are third-party tested, they are backed by genuine consumer reviews that vouch for the efficacy and safety of the product. 

Price: We ensure our products cater to different budgets and provide the best value for money. 

Finally, our team of reviewers validated the brands and products for their quality and safety. We aimed to provide a list of the best hair and nail vitamins that are both effective and reliable. 

Potential Side Effects of Using Vitamins For Hair, Skin, And Nails

Supplement brands and manufacturers don’t need to produce proof of quality or safety for such products. That’s because beauty supplements are categorized as dietary supplements and are regulated as foods by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). So, taking care of the potential side effects when using vitamins for hair, skin, and nails is a serious concern. 

Potential side effects of hair, skin, and nails vitamins may include stomach issues like constipation, upset stomach, and diarrhea. They can also have severe allergic reactions like swelling, itching, rashes, dizziness, and even breathing problems. 

If you face any side effects when consuming supplements for skin and hair, contact your doctor and get immediate help. 

FAQs About Hair, Skin And Nails Vitamins

Q1. How does vitamin C benefit the skin?

Vitamin C is touted as one of the most sought-after ingredients for its anti-aging properties. It’s a potent antioxidant that boosts collagen production in your skin and keeps it from sagging, maintaining elasticity and firmness. Since it’s highly acidic in nature, it helps heal your skin, hydrate it, reduce inflammation, and fight UV damage. Moreover, it is extremely beneficial in treating skin problems like hyperpigmentation and the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. 

Read more about the supplements that are perfect solution for sagging skin

Q2. Do hair, skin, and nail vitamins really work?

Although there hasn’t been a lot of research about the effectiveness of vitamins for nails, skin, and hair, there are genuine reviews by consumers who have benefitted from such supplements. 

Most of these hair, nails, and skin supplements are packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, vitamin C, and zinc, which help support healthy hair, nourish skin, and strengthen nails. So, if you are complementing these supplements with adequate sleep and a balanced diet, you may see potential results with consistent usage. 

Q3. Do hair, skin, and nail vitamins help in hair growth?

Deficiencies of certain vitamins (like B12, A, and D) cause hair fall. Also, nutrient deficiencies like biotin, zinc, iron, and selenium can induce hair loss and thinning. 

Biotin improves the keratin structure of our hair, which is an abundant protein in our hair. So, a biotin deficiency can directly relate to hair loss and scanty scalp. So, supplements that have these ingredients in the blend may improve hair quality and promote hair growth. 

Q4. How does biotin improve the health of hair, skin, and nails?

Biotin, or vitamin B7, has many benefits for skin, hair, and nails. Studies show that biotin deficiency in the body can cause reactions like hair thinning, hair loss, brittle nails, and rashes, although biotin deficiency is rare if you eat a healthy and balanced diet. 

A study also reported 18 cases where patients consuming biotin supplements for hair loss and brittle nails showed improved hair growth and strengthening of nails. However, there is only limited research and data to prove that biotin supplements are effective in hair growth. 

Q5. How long does getting hair, skin, and nail vitamin results take?

The time hair, skin, and nail vitamins take to show results depends on a few factors, including the ingredient blend, dosage, and your overall diet. These vitamin supplements work best when complemented with a balanced diet, sufficient water intake, and adequate sleep. 

On average, you can start seeing results within two to six months of continuous consumption. 

Q6. What is the best time to take hair, skin, and nail vitamins?

There is no strict rule about when you should take these hair, skin, and nail vitamins. But it’s best not to take them on an empty stomach because any supplement or medicine, when taken after meals, improves the absorption of the nutrients and reduces the chances of stomach issues. 

So, you can follow the recommendation of the product or your doctor. But it’s more important to be consistent with the vitamins than when you take them. 

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Concluding Thoughts: What Vitamins Are Best For Hair, Skin & Nails?

You can find a lot of brands in the market that offer vitamin supplements. However, The key is not chasing endless products on shelves but identifying which ones work best for each of us. It means doing your homework, understanding what vitamins you need, and which products can offer you those. 

But then again, no matter what product you choose, it’s hard to see results without consistency. So pick your best fit and keep at it to see visible changes. Also, the best supplements for hair, skin, and nails cannot work on their own. They work only in tandem with a well-rounded diet and a healthy lifestyle; maintain that, and you can achieve your goal of beautiful hair, strong nails, and bright and radiant skin.

 

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Studio S JUNE 8, 2026

Seven Restaurants, One Rising Star

Yes, Chef! winner Emily Brubaker leads the robust culinary program at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Seven Restaurants, One Rising Star

For Executive Chef Emily Brubaker, Omni La Costa Resort & Spa feels like home. She grew up just a mile-and-a-half away from the 400-acre property and fondly recalls walking the golf course perimeter as a kid. Though her ambitions led her away from San Diego for nearly two decades in which she honed her craft in some of the highest of high-profile Las Vegas restaurants—including triple Michelin-starred Joël Robuchon at MGM Grand—they ultimately brought her back to North County.

Courtesy of Omni La Costa

Today, the classically French-trained chef, who’s fresh off a victory on NBC’s Yes, Chef!, judged by Martha Stewart and José Andrés, oversees Omni La Costa Resort & Spa’s seven distinct dining concepts. Her goal is to elevate the resort’s culinary program with her creative, hyperlocal ingredient-driven approach while maintaining the Spanish- inspired flavors and fresh California coastal cuisine that are the bedrock of its culinary identity.

“The San Diego food scene is really growing, and in North County alone, it’s really exploded in the last five years,” Brubaker says. “There are Michelin stars, beautiful tasting menus, craft bakers, and all this food—when I was growing up in La Costa, it was fish tacos. Now there are really cool things popping up, and I’m so happy to be here to see where it’s going to go.”

Brubaker gives chefs de cuisine at each individual restaurant autonomy, however, her influence is evident across the resort.

For example, lobby restaurant Bar Traza serves as Omni La Costa’s culinary centerpiece and features bold Spanish flavors in a lively, social atmosphere. Brubaker overhauled the menu to be more consistent and centered on casual bites with that signature vibe. Think smoky paprika, vibrant citrus, and Spanish meats and cheeses.

At VUE, the focus is on seasonal offerings, California coastal cuisine, and Baja-inspired dishes. She and Chef de Cuisine Cameron Dixon change the menu biannually, which heading into summer, will highlight farm-fresh produce and hyperlocal ingredients—the resort even has its own herb garden and honeybee hives.

Courtesy of Omni La Costa

Poolside dining options are leaning into the country’s 250th this summer with a selection of classic American dishes with an Omni La Costa twist. And Bob’s Steak & Chop House (Brubaker is a trained butcher) offers a classic steakhouse experience with elevated service.

The chef and company also plan menus for special events at the resort where her creativity can really shine. For an upcoming National Ski Association dinner, the banquet hall will be transformed into an Alpine-themed winter wonderland complete with a snow machine, savory sausages, and melty, decadent raclette. A recent dinner was built around the Carlsbad Flower Fields and each course was matched to a color of ranunculus (Did you know pink dragonfruit are grown in North County? You do now.).

“It’s my zen to be in the kitchen playing with food,” Brubaker says.

Omni La Costa’s culinary program is a key part of the resort experience. And with Brubaker’s leadership, it’s becoming a draw for visitors and locals alike.

“These aren’t just hotel restaurants, these are restaurants that you should go to. They’re destinations, and I’m really hoping for the future that’s where we’re going,” Brubaker says.

Courtesy of Omni La Costa

Brubaker is also channeling her experience on Yes, Chef! into the culture at Omni La Costa—more emphasis on teamwork and collaboration, empowering her staff to share constructive critiques, and embracing different perspectives. Alongside her leadership role, Brubaker has become an advocate for mental health in the hospitality industry, serving as chief ambassador for the Burnt Chef Project and serves on the Board of Advisors for the Apex Culinary Program, where she mentors and develops future talent.

For more on Omni La Costa Resort & Spa and its dining program, please visit omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego-la-costa.

Partner Content
Partner Content JUNE 5, 2026

Beautiful Balboa Park: Nine Ways to See the City’s Crown Jewel in a New Light

San Diego Magazine's 2026 Guide to Balboa Park.

Beautiful Balboa Park: Nine Ways to See the City’s Crown Jewel in a New Light

Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart.

The iconic 1,200-acre preserve’s history dates back more than 150 years, evolving from a scrub-filled plot atop a mesa overlooking what’s now Downtown to an urban oasis—the largest of its kind in the country—filled with an array of museums, attractions, gardens, trails, restaurants, and more. Balboa Park is an epic playground where San Diegans and visitors alike can experience the great outdoors just as easily as they can enjoy a world-class performance or explore groundbreaking discoveries.

Tucked away in the Spanish Colonial Revival-style architecture are 18 diverse museums that allow visitors to spend the day learning about, well, anything. A great place to start is the San Diego History Center. Located in the Casa del Balboa building, the museum tells the story of the city’s past, present, and future through photographs and art, clothing and textiles, and interviews with people who witnessed history-making events firsthand. The San Diego Natural History Museum takes visitors even farther back with interactive exhibitions that show what the region was like up to 75 million years ago. 

Blast off on a simulated trip to space at the San Diego Air & Space Museum, then check out artifacts from aviation legends, including the Wright brothers, Amelia Earhart, and Buzz Aldrin. Discover new perspectives revolutionizing the science world, learn about an often overlooked but overutilized utility, and exercise your creativity at the Fleet Science Center.  

Calling all theater-lovers, Balboa Park has something for you, too. The San Diego Junior Theatre will present their musical take on beloved children’s book A Bad Case of the Stripes from June 26 through July 12. And laugh, cry, and marvel in awe as the pros of The Old Globe perform Kim’s Convenience, the award-winning comedy that inspired the popular series, from May 15 to June 14. 

There’s nowhere else in Balboa Park quite like WorldBeat Cultural Center. The institution celebrates African diaspora and indigenous cultures around the world using art, music, dance, and education. The building, a renovated water tower covered in colorful murals, houses a performing arts center, museum, gift shop, cafe, and outdoor classroom.

If you’d like a side of nature with your culture, Balboa Park has you covered there, too. Stroll through the gardens of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, a monument to the relationship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, Japan. Inspired by traditional Japanese design dating back centuries, the 10-acre respite features a living exhibition that showcases plants native to both cities. 

If there seems like a lot going on in Balboa Park, it’s because there is. Let the Balboa Park Cultural Partnership be your guide. The organization is the umbrella for 24 of the park’s institutions and offers an Explorer Pass that allows visitors to access multiple museums for one affordable price. The hardest part is picking where to start.

16 Museums, One Pass

Save on admission to San Diego’s top museums with the Balboa Park Explorer Pass. Explore 16 museums of art, science, history and culture across Balboa Park — all with one affordable pass. Choose the option that fits your pace: the Limited Pass (one day for up to four museums), the Parkwide Pass (seven consecutive days of access to all 16 museums) or the Annual Pass (365 days of unlimited exploring).

Looking for an experience-driven gift? Let the museum lover in your life enjoy their favorite museums all year with a Balboa Park Explorer Annual Pass gift voucher.

BuyMyExplorer.com | Phone: 619-232-7502, Press 2 for Explorer 

Fleet Science Center

Bigger experiments, brighter ideas, and boundless curiosity await at the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center. This summer, the Fleet debuts Element 8 Cafe, an expanded theater queuing and concessions space, two new gallery spaces, and, for the first time, a free entrance gallery exploring science in and around San Diego. The transformation marks a new chapter for the Fleet, keeping it a vital, innovative, and accessible science hub for the region. Visitors are invited to explore the experience this summer and connect with the power of science like never before.

Address: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: FleetScience.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Phone: 619-238-1233

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum

An accredited cultural gem, the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum brings traditional Japanese garden design to life with koi ponds, curving walkways and layers of greenery. Guests explore bonsai trees, streams and peaceful nooks while taking part in exhibits, educational programs and festivals that illuminate Japanese culture. Situated in the heart of Balboa Park, the garden doubles as a meditative retreat and a dynamic gathering place, welcoming visitors to slow their pace and connect more deeply.

Address: 2215 Pan American Road E, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: Niwa.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily; last admission at 6 p.m.
Phone: 619-232-2721

The Old Globe

A San Diego summer favorite, The Old Globe invites audiences to experience a beloved local tradition in its outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre. 

This summer, the 2026 Shakespeare Festival presents two thrilling tales of power, passion and romance. Measure for Measure, running June 14 through July 12, 2026, is a riveting story of justice and hypocrisy that asks who holds power, who is punished and what it truly means to be virtuous. Much Ado About Nothing, playing Aug. 2–30, 2026, is a classic rom-com packed with schemes, sparks and laughter as opposites attract. Audiences can enjoy both shows for $44.

Address: 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: TheOldGlobe.org
Hours: Box office open Tuesday–Sunday, 1 p.m. to final curtain
Phone: Box office, 619-234-5623

San Diego Air & Space Museum

Aviation and space exploration come to life at the San Diego Air & Space Museum. See an airworthy replica of the Spirit of St. Louis, a Gee Bee racer and historic aircraft from World War I, World War II and the Korean and Vietnam eras. Get up close to the Apollo 9 command module — one of only 11 of its kind in the world — along with Mercury and Gemini capsules, Mission Control and space shuttle simulators, and a selfie spot beside a lunar lander on the moon. Running through 2026, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! brings oddities from around the world to Balboa Park.

Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoAirAndSpace.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-234-8291

San Diego History Center

History belongs to everyone. At the San Diego History Center, two experiences bring that history to life this summer: America at 250 and the Center for Women’s History. America at 250 traces San Diego’s place in 250 years of U.S. history, while summer programs invite children to learn and explore. The Center for Women’s History amplifies the voices of women whose leadership and creativity have shaped our region.

By understanding our past, we build a more vibrant and inclusive community together. These vital educational experiences are only possible through generous community support. Discover your roots, spark meaningful dialogue, and help keep San Diego’s stories alive for future generations.

Address: 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SanDiegoHistory.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday–Sunday
Phone: 619-232-6203

San Diego Junior Theatre

Junior Theatre is San Diego’s longest-running youth theatre program, empowering students ages 4 to 18 to explore storytelling, performance, and collaboration in a supportive environment. Through classes, camps, and productions, young artists build confidence, creativity, and lifelong skills onstage and off. Each season features a wide range of opportunities, from introductory experiences to advanced training in acting and musical theatre. 

Looking for a summer adventure? Junior Theatre’s Summer Camps deliver dynamic programs for grades K–12, including musical theater intensives, acting academies and immersive JT Studio experiences. It’s a place where imagination truly takes center stage.

Address: 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: JuniorTheatre.com
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Phone: 619-239-1311

San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)

This summer, The Nat is talking trash—literally. Their newest exhibition, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea, features larger‑than‑life marine sculptures made of ocean debris collected from beaches. It invites visitors to explore the impact of plastic pollution and discover ways to take action.

But the experience doesn’t stop at the gallery doors. Friday nights, the exhibition transforms into an ocean-themed “dive bar” during Nat at Night. Select Sundays bring something brand new: a rooftop brunch with sweeping Balboa Park views. Add two new giant-screen films and five floors of nature to explore, and The Nat is shaping up to be one of the season’s must-visit destinations.

Address: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Website: SDNat.org
Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in summer
Phone: 619-232-3821

WorldBeat Cultural Center

The WorldBeat Cultural Center is a nonprofit multidisciplinary cultural organization dedicated to promoting, presenting and preserving Indigenous cultures worldwide through music, art, dance, education, sustainability and community programs. WorldBeat elevates multicultural artists, expands opportunities for cultural enrichment and fosters deeper understanding across traditions. WorldBeat offers a holistic cultural experience that inspires pride, unity, connection and belonging for all ages.

Address: 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101
Website: WorldBeatCenter.org
Hours: Classes: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, 6–9 p.m. Exhibits and café: Friday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.
Phone: 619-230-1190


Event Calendar

Throughout 2026: Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

Step into a world of the weird and wonderful at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! at the San Diego Air & Space Museum in Balboa Park. Explore hundreds of bizarre artifacts, interactive displays and unbelievable stories that celebrate the curious and the extraordinary.

San Diego Air & Space Museum | 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101

Throughout 2026: San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods

Presented in partnership with the San Diego Museum of African American Fine Arts, San Diego’s Lost Neighborhoods uses augmented reality, oral histories, and archival materials to explore communities and residents displaced by redlining, freeway construction, and other discriminatory policies.

San Diego History Center | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101

June –Aug: The 2026 Shakespeare Festival

Spend a summer night at The Old Globe. The Lowell Davies Festival Theatre stages Measure for Measure (June 14–July 12) and Much Ado About Nothing (Aug. 2–30), offering two unforgettable Shakespeare productions for just $44.

The Old Globe | 1363 Old Globe Way,
San Diego, CA 92101

June 8–Aug. 7: Theatre Summer Camps

Summer camps at Junior Theatre spark creativity for grades K–12 with hands-on training, musical theatre intensives, acting academies, and JT Studio experiences.

San Diego Junior Theatre | 1650 El Prado, Suite 208, San Diego, CA 92101  

June 14, July 12, Aug 9: Brunch at The Nat


A museum visit turns into a Sunday Funday with the addition of rooftop brunch, featuring mimosas, bloody Marys, and brunch bites from Wolfish by Wolf in the Woods (June 14, August 9) and Hash House a Go Go (July 12). 

San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat)
1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

June 21: Harriet Tubman Freedom Bird Walk

Celebrate Juneteenth weekend with guided birding, storytelling, soul food, native planting and an African peace drum circle.

WorldBeat Cultural Center | 2100 Park Blvd., San Diego, CA 92101

Aug 7-8: Toro Nagashi Festival

Nagashi at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum by floating a lantern to honor loved ones who have passed. Stroll merchant booths, enjoy cultural performances in the Inamori Pavilion, and sample food vendors plus a beer and sake garden in the lower garden.

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum | 1649 El Prado, Suite 3, San Diego, CA 92101


Explore arts, science, history, and culture in the Balboa Park Cultural District with one convenient, affordable Pass. The Balboa Park Explorer Pass is your ticket to up to 16 museums and endless fun! Purchase your pass at BuyMyExplorer.com.

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Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: La Gran Terraza

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: La Gran Terraza

Marbi Becerra, Chef de Cuisine

La Gran Terraza, the University of San Diego’s signature restaurant, has been a campus favorite for over 16 years, offering California cuisine with a Mediterranean twist. This summer, its gastropub, O’Toole’s, is open for evening service —perfect for sunset bites and drinks.

At the helm is chef Marbi Becerra, a Culinary Institute of America alum with roots in the US and Mexico. She now leads culinary operations for La Gran Terraza and USD Catering, bringing bold Mediterranean flavors and a fresh perspective.

Try This!

Seared Scallops: With charred broccolini oyster mushrooms corn puree herb cherry tomatoes and chimichurri

La Gran Terraza

5998 Alcala Park, San Diego, California 92110
619-849-8205  |  lagranterraza.com  |  @eatatusd

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Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: Labora Cafe

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: Labora Cafe

Lauren Thiemthath & Bao Doan, Owners

Labora Café offers so much more than premium ceremonial-grade matcha; it’s a lifestyle café where people come to feel more energized, inspired, and connected to their community. Labora partners with retailers and lifestyle brands, from local Pilates instructors to Neiman Marcus, so there’s always something new to learn about or browse when you’re here. As for the drinks, whether you’re thinking matcha or Vietnamese coffee with a specialty house-made foam on top, expect a natural pick-me-up, without extra sugars or syrups.

Try This!

Pistachio 54: Pistachio foam layered with a slow drip Viet coffee or Matcha

Labora Café

8055 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard, Suite 101, San Diego, California 92111
858-471-6970 | laboracafe.com | @laborasd

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Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: Happy Medium

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: Happy Medium

Christian Siglin, Bartender & Owner

Happy Medium lives in the sweet spot: not too fancy, not too gritty. Think dive bar soul with cocktail bar standards. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a beer and a shot, a fancy cocktail, plus a killer spirits list. The menu includes all the best bar classics along with elevated plates. Some would call it a “happy medium.” With your favorite B-side tracks always playing in the background, Happy Medium is the ultimate neighborhood hangout spot.

Try This!

Lava Flowgroni: Pineapple gin layered with strawberry Campari, banana vermouth and coconut, served over crushed party ice.

Happy Medium

4002 30th Street, San Diego, California 92104
619-310-5642 | happymediumsd.com

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Partner Content JUNE 4, 2026

Tastemakers 2026: The Fishery

Chefs, restaurateurs, sommeliers, and craft mixers - meet our 2026 Tastemakers, the minds behind the magic.

Tastemakers 2026: The Fishery

Zach Sheldon, Bar Lead & Cocktail Magician

For nearly 30 years, The Fishery has been serving some of the freshest seafood in San Diego. The cozy neighborhood spot is perfect for all dress codes and pallets, whether you’re thinking fish and chips or the whole fried sculpin. And with celebrated mixologist Zach Sheldon as bar lead, the food isn’t the only reason to visit. Inspired by Chef Mike Reidy, Sheldon employs high-level sustainability techniques to create unique European-style cocktails that pair perfectly with The Fishery’s seasonal menu.

Try This!

Agua Mágica: A gimlet made with Cara Cara mezcal, yuzu vodka, green chile vodka, aloe vera, fino sherry, cilantro eau de vie, celery, and black pepper. 

The Fishery

5040 Cass Street, San Diego, California 92109
thefishery.com@sdthefishery

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