10 Jul 2025

Guide to the Best Taco Shops in San Diego

By The Dana

If you’re looking for a true cultural and culinary experience during your vacation in San Diego, you are definitely going to want to check out the local taco scene and take advantage of the delicious offerings from our unique San Diego taco shops.

We asked the team members here at The Dana for their “go-to” taco spots in San Diego, and we’ve shared their favorites along with some of the other popular San Diego taco shops for you to explore during your stay at our Mission Bay hotel.

Mission Baja Tacos (Local Favorite) 2.0 Miles from Hotel

For the ultimate seaside taco escape, head to Mission Baja Tacos. Serving up some of the best tacos in San Diego, this beachside establishment is known for their Birria Tacos, El Pastor Tacos, and Lettuce Wrap Tacos. They also deliver to The Dana on Mission Bay, which makes them a great choice when you want tacos in a jiffy! Enjoy these amazing tacos and a side dish of tradition from their family recipes passed down through generations. Great food with an excellent location, cool beach vibe, and local delivery make Mission Baja Tacos one of the most popular San Diego taco shops.

Puesto (Liliana, Sales Admin's Pick) 4.9 Miles to Hotel

Known for their blue corn tortillas and creative taco offerings, Puesto is often on the list of best taco shops in San Diego. This family-owned establishment offers multiple San Diego locations, including one in Petco Park as well as the one in Mission Valley, which is the closest to The Dana. Puesto has a variety of taco choices, from innovative flavors to treasured family traditions that are handed down from generation to generation. Try their award-winning Mexico City-style tacos, margaritas, and a cold Mexican lager from their onsite brewery!

The Taco Stand (Carolina, Front Desk Agent's Pick) 6.7 Miles to Hotel

Serving up some of the best tacos in San Diego, The Taco Stand offers a quick, delicious bite to eat in a casual environment, and they have lots of loyal fans. Inspired by Tijuana's bustling taco stands, the first Taco Stand was founded in San Diego in 2013. The Taco Stand has several California locations, with the B Street location being the closest to The Dana. They offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and your choice of traditional tacos or those with a twist, including Baja Tacos, Mushroom Tacos, Nopal Tacos with cactus, and more at one of the most popular local San Diego taco shops.

Tacos El Gordo (Local Favorite) 7.4 Miles to Hotel

This highly popular taco establishment offers several San Diego locations and is open late, which makes them popular with night owls! In business for over 40 years, Tacos El Gordo is known for offering an authentic Tijuana taco experience and some of the best tacos in San Diego, featuring handmade corn tortillas, made-from-scratch salsas, and fresh guacamole daily. When dining at Tacos El Gordo, you must try their specialty, Adobada tacos, which are made from spiced pork on a corn tortilla. Also popular at this San Diego taco shop are the Suadero tacos, using delicious brisket along with fresh toppings for a cultural treat!

Lolita’s (James, Guest Services Supervisor's pick) 11.0 Miles to Hotel

Consistently named as one of the best taco shops in San Diego, Lolita’s is passionate about serving delicious, authentic Mexican food from Señor Joaquin’s decades of culinary experience, with a touch of innovation from his children. They use only the highest quality, locally sourced ingredients for their tacos. From the Carne Asada and Grilled Shrimp Tacos to the unique and delicious Potato Taco and the ever-popular Carne Asada Fries, Lolita’s is the perfect place for tacos in San Diego. This popular taco shop has several locations, including one near the San Diego stadiums, making it a great choice for grabbing your favorite tacos before or after a game or event.

These locally-owned restaurants offer some of the best tacos in San Diego in a variety of regional styles and are definitely worth a visit during your stay at The Dana on Mission Bay.

Enjoy the Best Tacos in San Diego & Stay at the Dana on Mission Bay

Whether you’re visiting for a culinary tour of the best taco shops in San Diego or want to spend some downtime in the California sunshine in our coastal paradise, The Dana on Mission Bay is the perfect place to stay. Not only will you be close to all the best taco purveyors in the city, but you’ll also experience resort-style amenities, pet-friendly accommodations, amazing views, and the best hotel in San Diego. Our near-perfect waterfront location is a great escape and offers everything you need for the perfect beach getaway. Don't forget to stop by our own on-site restaurant to savor fresh, flavor-packed tacos with a coastal twist at Firefly Eatery & Bar — perfect for pairing with bay views and a cold drink.

Book your stay at The Dana on Mission Bay today for an unforgettable vacation (and the best tacos) in San Diego you won’t soon forget! Plan your escape today with these Special Packages and offers to help you save!

09 Jan 2025

Wellness in Winter – Staying Active and Healthy in the New Year in San Diego

By The Dana

Although many of us resolve to be healthy in the New Year, staying active during the winter months isn’t as easy to do when you live in colder climates that have harsh winters and few sunny days. That’s why San Diego is the perfect winter escape and is just what you need to beat the wintertime blues!

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to make plans to spend some time in the California sunshine this winter and take advantage of all the exciting San Diego winter activities we have to offer! Since we are fortunate to have near-perfect weather that is sunny and 70 degrees most days, there are so many wonderful San Diego winter activities to keep you active and healthy this season. The Dana puts you right in the middle of a plethora of activities and amenities for the perfect winter escape. Here are some of the best San Diego winter activities, located near your room or suite right here on Mission Bay!

Bayside Dining at Firefly Eatery & Bar (Onsite)

Fuel your wellness journey this winter with fresh, local cuisine, and a dose of sunshine at Firefly Eatery & Bar, located onsite here at The Dana on Mission Bay. Dine al fresco on our waterfront patio, where you can soak up Vitamin D while enjoying delicious dishes crafted with seasonal ingredients. Pair your meal with a refreshing mocktail, local craft beer, or curated wine as you take in breathtaking views of our Bayside Pool, private marina, and Mission Bay. Firefly is your go-to spot for a healthy and vibrant dining experience in San Diego this winter!

Get Outside and Get Active (Onsite)

At The Dana on Mission Bay, winter doesn’t mean staying indoors—San Diego's sunshine invites you to explore the great outdoors all year long! Start your adventure by biking around Mission Bay, soaking in the crisp coastal air and snapping photos of the stunning waterfront scenery. Ready to hit the water? Adventure Water Sports, conveniently located onsite, has you covered with an array of rentals. From wave runners and ski boats to kayaks and paddleboards, there's no better way to spend a day outdoors. Whether you’re chasing thrills or enjoying a peaceful paddle, your ultimate bay adventure awaits!

Fitness February by Discover Mission Bay (Onsite & Various Locations)

Plan your vacation to San Diego this winter and join our friends at Discover Mission Bay for an exciting month dedicated to fitness and wellness all across the neighborhood, including special events right here at our hotel. Immerse yourself in a new fitness experience, or enjoy your favorite mind, body, and spirit activities. With free events that are open to all levels of experience, you can enjoy fitness activities during your San Diego winter escape. More details are coming your way soon!

Visit a San Diego Farmer’s Market (Various Locations)

With over 5,100 farms in the San Diego area, the city is a top producer of tomatoes, avocados, flowers, citrus, mushrooms, poultry, eggs, and strawberries. This means guests and locals can find an amazing local farmer’s market within minutes of the best San Diego hotel, The Dana. From the Coronado Certified Farmers Market and the Little Italy Mercato Certified Farmers Market to the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market and Pacific Beach Certified Farmers Market, you’ll definitely have your pick of the crop at these popular San Diego Farmer's Markets.

Cheers to Dry January (Various Locations)

Dry January is the perfect time to explore San Diego’s delicious mocktail scene! Stop by Miss B’s Coconut Club in Mission Beach for the tropical Ed’s No Rum Runner, or head to Kindred in South Park for their refreshing Miracle Cure, a zesty mix of pineapple, coconut, and Thai basil. For something truly unique, visit Mothership and try the floral and tangy Tracking Device with coconut and hibiscus. These wellness-friendly sips make staying dry in San Diego delicious and fun!

Wellness Experience at MCASD (6.5 Miles From Hotel)

Located in La Jolla, the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego hosts the 2025 Wellness Experience and allows guests to embark on a transformative journey of wellness with stunning views of the ocean. Enjoy a variety of unique wellness practices with a backdrop of coastal views, art, and nature. Enjoy a peaceful environment with relaxing views and enlightening experiences you won’t want to miss during your winter wellness vacation to San Diego.

Trilogy Sanctuary in La Jolla (7.4 Miles From Hotel)

The Trilogy Sanctuary was designed to provide a place that nurtures balance and inspires people to lead healthy lives in harmony with themselves and with nature. Trilogy Sanctuary offers a peaceful space that encourages connection in the heart of La Jolla for yoga (including aerial yoga!), vegan cuisine, and spiritual healing. From the rooftop aerial yoga studio to the vegan cafe that offers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, Trilogy is a great place to stay active and healthy this winter in San Diego.

Are You Ready to Plan Your San Diego Winter Wellness Retreat at The Dana on Mission Bay?

The Dana on Mission Bay is the place to be this winter to keep all of your health-minded resolutions in check. Not only will you relax and unwind at one of the best hotels in San Diego, but the prime location puts you near all the best San Diego winter activities. Our guests here at The Dana will experience stunning rooms and suites in a bayside setting in three-story buildings with beautiful views of the marina and beyond. It’s the perfect place to stay to soak up all the California sun and take part in all the best things to do in San Diego. Make plans today for your winter wellness escape to San Diego!