ALEXIS GAUTIER |
handmade right here in San Diego .
If you ’ re looking to do a little shopping that also feels good on the soul , check out Lotus and Luna on Garnet Avenue . With a mission to aid impoverished women , this store carries gorgeous handmade accessories from a team of female artisans based in villages in northern Thailand . The selection includes bracelets , anklets and other pieces that incorporate significant meanings and messages , and every product purchased provides fair and consistent employment to the women who help bring these products to life .
To take in even more SoCal vibes , enjoy the sun as you explore the shops on Pacific Beach ’ s oceanfront boardwalk that runs along the coastline for nearly 3 miles . Start at Wahines , which is filled with surf apparel just for women , including everything from flip-flops to boho chic clothing from the biggest surf brands .
When you ’ re ready to refuel , it ’ s time to enjoy San Diego ’ s renowned craft beer — the city is home to more than 150 operational brewhouses , plus most local bars and restaurants feature a tap list with at least 20 beers that bartenders can ’ t wait to tell you about . Pacific Beach Ale House is one ideal
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place to stop for a sip , it has an in-house brewery where they process all of their own raw materials and even grow their own grain . PB Ale House offers seasonal craft beers and cocktails and even has a second story rooftop patio to enjoy the views and weather of Pacific Beach .
BOUTIQUES AND BRUNCH IN BIRD ROCK Less than 10 minutes away from Pacific Beach , you will find a completely different vibe , yet one that ’ s still just as representative of San Diego . Bird Rock , located in La Jolla , is known for being quirky , cozy and refined .
According to local legend , the neighborhood was named after a rock that resembled a bird , which you can actually find at the end of Bird Rock Avenue . Although it once had an arch with an opening under it , erosion from the waves caused the arch to collapse a few years ago .
To start your shopping day , you ’ ll want to get a cup of joe at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters . This award-winning roaster serves green coffee and also gives back to the community , including the farmers from whom it sources its beans as well as Bird Rock itself . Head north on La Jolla Hermosa Avenue to find the Bird Rock
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Bike Path , which makes for a nice stroll to take in views of the Pacific . From there , explore the “ Street of Dreams ” on Camino de la Costa , where you can marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of the water as much as the oceanfront mansions .
When you ’ re ready to pursue some shopping , stop by Mimi & Red . It is the place to go for casual , beach-chic fashion . This women ’ s boutique carries an array of well-priced , thoughtfully selected clothing that matches the light aesthetic that welcomes in the ocean air . A similar shop that dots the neighborhood is Bobbi Rocco , which is slightly higher end . For more mainstream surf apparel and goods with that definitive San Diego vibe , venture over to Bird Rock Surf .
Whatever your style may be , you ’ re sure to find the perfect outfit for brunching at Beaumont ’ s , Bird Rock ’ s go-to for California cuisine . The neighborhood joint and central meeting spot has brunch on weekends , live music on Thursdays , Fridays and Saturdays , hosts a great bar scene and amazing food in a casual , yet contemporary atmosphere .
For the perfect San Diego weekend , there ’ s nothing better than a bit of sun , sand , surf and shopping in Pacific Beach and Bird Rock . g
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MISSION : BEACH ! 19 |