San Diego Escapes For Grownups

In our first post this month, we envisioned what it might look like to let the kids plan a San Diego vacation. We don’t want to neglect the “big kids”, though! So if you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a friend group, we thought we’d point out some great ways for funseekers of the more grown variety to enjoy a spring break escape to “America’s Finest City.” Read on for some fantastic getaway ideas.

Beach House Bar (1.1 Miles)

One of San Diego’s premier beach bars is located less than a mile from our hotel. Beach House Bar encompasses 30,000 square feet of combo bar, restaurant, and oceanside relaxation. Here, you’ll discover fire pits, entertainment, delicious food and cocktails and endless amounts of SoCal sunshine. You’re also just steps from Belmont Park, San Diego’s boardwalk fun zone where everyone feels like a kid. So if you’re down for hitting the midway or riding the Great Dipper, you’re already here!
3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 9210

Cannonball and Draft (1.2 Miles)

After visiting Beach House, head out to the boardwalk. Then take a left and walk just a few steps. In moments, you’ll make landfall at a beachfront bar called Draft. And with sushi bar Cannonball located directly upstairs, you’re covered for some of the best food and drinks in the city. Directly overlooking the Mission Beach Boardwalk, Cannonball can lay claim to having the largest beachfront rooftop in the city, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. They also serve always-fresh sushi, seafood, and fresh California cuisine. So order up, kick back, and enjoy the stunning view. Draft is a wonderful spot to catch a game, grab a beer or just watch the carefree rollerbladers coast on by.
3105 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109

El Prez (2.4 Miles)

(Photo: @elprezpb)
If there’s anything better than tacos, tequila and beachside sunsets, we haven’t found it yet. Thankfully, El Prez serves up all three in grand fashion. This festively colorful neighborhood hotspot is a closely-guarded secret among locals. Once you dive into their menu and drink specials, it won’t be tough to see why. So whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner for two or a night out with the crew, you’ll want to make El Prez a stop.
4190 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109

The Grass Skirt (3.4 Miles)

(Photo: @thegrassskirtsd)
As one of the more popular spots within the city’s Polynesian bar scene, The Grass Skirt is a breezy neighborhood speakeasy festively festooned with torches, tiki art, and — of course — hula skirts. The menu is brimming with deceptively potent punches and flaming potions, some of which seem to have a mystic effect on the environment itself when ordered. And in contrast to many of San Diego’s undercover taverns, The Grass Skirt has an excellent food menu full of island-style eats. Secret Tip: Check out the freezer at the adjacent poké bar to make your way inside.
910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

Captain’s Quarters (3.4 Miles)

And speaking of speakeasies (sssh!) The Grass Skirt has opened up a new concept just adjacent to their original hush-hush hideaway in Pacific Beach. Captain’s Quarters is a swashbuckler’s paradise, with pirate-themed décor, drinks, and attitude. It’s one of the city’s newest clandestine taverns, but given its pedigree, it’s also poised to become one of the most popular. So grab some grog, peer out one of the portholes, and get ready to have your rigging raised.
910 Grand Ave, San Diego, CA 92109

Coin-op Game Room (9 Miles) 

(Photo: @coinopsd)
“Barcades” are big in San Diego, and they’re exactly what they sound like. Specifically, a big kids’ playground where you can grab a burger, a beer and a handful of quarters and play all night. Classically old-school arcade gaming is always on offer here, as are specialty drinks like the “Kentucky Stucky” and “Guava the Hutt”. You can even order an tipsy pouch drink (just like what used to be in your lunchbox, but for big kids) if you’re feeling, well…punchy. Hungry? Dig into a “Goomba Burger” (with a grilled mushroom cap, natch), or a Shrimpy Boy po’ boy-style sub. Just be sure to wipe the remoulade sauce off of your fingers before you start mashing buttons. San Diego is chock-full of fun bars for the young at heart if you know where to look!
3926 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Stay and Play at the Dana

When you’re ready to plan your grownups’ getaway, The Dana on Mission Bay would love to host your kick-back. Our competitive rates, central location and guest-first amenities (like our dive-in movies!) make us an easy choice for your escape. Take a look at our special offers page, reserve the San Diego travel deal that’s right for you, and plan your visit today.

San Diego Date Night Ideas

Love is in the air this month! Whether you’ve been together for years or are celebrating the start of a great relationship, San Diego is a perfect place to celebrate Valentine’s Day or simply enjoy some unique date nights. Enjoy rooftops with breathtaking views, secret bars, beachside picnics, and special Valentine’s Day celebrations at The Dana. Here are some of our favorite nighttime date ideas!

Have a Bonfire at Sunset Park (a Few Steps Away)

(Photo: @danamissionbay)
Located adjacent to The Dana, Sunset Park is an ideal place for a romantic bayside bonfire. Grab something to-go from Firefly Eatery & Bar and head to the sandy shoreline to enjoy some cozy fireside time together. Plan your bonfire around sunset to see exactly how this spot got its name.

Check Out Beach House & Belmont Park (1.1 Miles Away)

(Photo: @beachhousesd)
For a lively date, head over to Beach House Tequila & Taqueria. The oceanfront space features tiki bars, cabanas, firepits, tropical palm trees, and beachfront bars all designed to ensure you have a good time. Enjoy a menu filled with street tacos and tequila-forward cocktails. During the weekends, the laid-back spot turns into a party with live music from some of the best DJs in the area! If you get here early enough, be sure to stop over at Belmont Park to ride the famous Giant Dipper Rollercoaster, hit some bumper cars or game in the arcade!
3125 Ocean Front Walk at Belmont Park, San Diego, CA 92109

Drop in to Cannonball (1.2 Miles Away)

Sushi, the largest oceanfront rooftop patio in San Diego, and located only a short walk from The Dana make Cannonball one of the best date night spots in the area. Sip on tropical craft cocktails, sake, and local brews while indulging in freshly made and inventive sushi. For an unforgettable experience, reserve a table around sunset so you can catch the show with your dinner.
3105 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92019

Go Undercover at Oculto 477 (3.7 Miles Away)

Step back in time at Oculto 477. This speakeasy pays its respects to mixologists of the past as well as the 477 nextdoor “neighbors” buried in the adjacent cemetery. Oculto 477 politely enforces dress and etiquette codes making this an upscale and classy San Diego date night option. Just getting in is half the fun — you’ll have to visit a mock confessional to confess your sins in order to enter. Once inside, be sure to order the “Risk it All”, a drink where a literal roll of the dice determines what ends up in your glass.
2414 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110

Take in a Movie at Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero (7.2 Miles Away)

Catch a movie under the stars and city lights at the Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero. Vegan popcorn, snacks, and candy are available along with comfortable seating, this will be the best movie-viewing experience you’ve ever had! Choose from extra comfortable lounge seats, Adirondack loveseats, or traditional Adirondacks and settle in for an ultimate open-air film experience. Beanbags for kids are available making this a great, family-friendly date option.
Manchester Grand Hyatt, 1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101

Get Your Game on at a Barcade

(Photo: @punchbowlsocial)
“Barcades” are growing in popularity nationwide, and San Diego has some amazing examples. Punch Bowl Social is one such fast-growing fun zone. Imagine your well-off buddy’s basement rec room writ large, and you’re approaching the vibe. Similarly, Coin Op Game Room is a North Park staple (which recently opened a second location in the Gaslamp Quarter). It was the first barcade in “America’s Finest City”, and it remains a mandatory stop for anyone on the hunt for beer, burgers, and bytes.
Punch Bowl Social (7.5 miles) — 1485 E St, San Diego, CA 92101
Coin Op Game Room (8.6 miles) — 3926 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Take Off on the Mothership (9.3 Miles Away)

For an out-of-this-world date night, head to MOTHERSHIP, San Diego’s newest speakeasy. With a riveting backstory, creative drinks, and permanent vacation vibes, this hidden bar is a sci-fi lovers’ paradise. Pair your tropical cocktails or mocktails with delicious food, and you’re sure to have an otherworldly time!
2310 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104

Enjoy a Picnic at Ellen Browning Scripps Park (10.8 Miles Away)

(Photo: @lajolla_seals)
Considered one of the most photographed spots in San Diego, Ellen Browning Scripps Park is an ideal place for a romantic evening stroll on the beach. The sandy beaches below the park are some of the most breathtaking places you’ll ever see, even in a city that is filled with nothing but beauty. Don’t forget to snap some photos to remember your cozy evening!
1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037