Spend the day at one of San Diego's premier outdoor malls, such as the revitalized Westfield UTC mall, with its great dining options and such anchor stores as Macy's and Nordstrom, along with sought-after specialty stores that include Anthropologie, Apple and Tiffany & Co. Or try Mission Valley's venerable Fashion Valley mall, whose stores include Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and all the big-name designer outlets.
Other inviting outdoor shopping centers around the region include Carmel Valley's beautifully designed One Paseo, which features a mix of local and nationally known brand stores; and the nearby Del Mar Highlands Town Center, with its Sky Deck restaurant collective and popular boutiques.
> It's All About Outdoor Shopping
For the best deals of all, the San Diego's outlet centers offer something for everyone, with outrageous bargains as well as a festive holiday atmosphere for all to enjoy. Throughout the holiday season, Carlsbad Premium Outlets, located in the North Coastal area, and Las Americas Premium Outlets, located in South Bay, have special offers on extraordinary brands such as Coach, Calvin Klein, Sunglass Hut and more. Get the most out of your holiday outlet shopping in South Bay by continuing your shopping at Plaza Palmera, conveniently located right next to Las Americas, and pop into such amazing stores as Armani Exchange, Express Factory Outlet and H&M. For those in East County, Viejas Outlet Center offers high-end brands at incredible prices.
For your friends and family members who weren't lucky enough to join you in San Diego, the gift of a great local keepsake is the next best thing. Check out our full roundup of perfect places to find uniquely San Diego souvenirs that the folks back home are sure to treasure.
Beyond the local spots listed in that guide, additional places where you just might find the ideal San Diego item include Seaport Village and The Headquarters at Seaport on the beautiful Embarcadero; the Coronado Ferry Landing and Shops At The Del - Hotel Del Coronado on Coronado; Liberty Station in Point Loma; and Bazaar del Mundo and Fiesta de Reyes in Old Town.
And for the beach-lover on your gift list, try Everyday California and Surf Diva Surf School & Surf Diva Boutique.
For a more exclusive setting, peruse the high-end shops on Prospect and Girard in the beautiful seaside community of La Jolla. Or, stroll through the hip, urban boutiques in Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Hillcrest, North Park and South Park.
> Shopping Blocks Not To Miss
When: Nov. 3, 2024
Find unique gifts from one of the hundreds of arts & crafts and antique vendors while enjoying a sunny Southern California afternoon at the Carlsbad Fall Village Fair.
When: Nov. 23, 2024
Just in time for the Holidays, come support local San Diego businesses and find the perfect gifts!
When: Dec. 5-27, 2024
The Holiday Market in Gallagher Square is a fun night for the whole family and will feature local and European artisan shops, magical lighting displays, seasonal food and beverage, Santa and other holiday characters!
When: Dec. 6-7, 2024
San Diego's largest free holiday festival invites you to find the perfect gift and festive decor from any of the Museum gift shops or vendors that line the Prado.
When: Dec. 6-8, 2024
This exciting holiday event will feature more than 100 makers, craft cocktails, beer, gourmet food trucks, live music, photo trailers, styled lounges, door favors, and more!
When: Dec. 7, 2024
Magical décor, Christmas trees and the time-honored traditions of seasonal vendors at our Christmas Village, perfect for your holiday shopping, live music, holiday treats, while Santa checks in virtually throughout the night from the stage's LED screen!
When: Dec. 8, 2024
The festive and fiery SoNo Fest & Chili Cook-Off promises everything a person could want in a fun day including craft beer, wine, shopping music and chili!
When: Dec. 14, 2024
Walk the streets of La Mesa's historic downtown while exploring dozens of local craft vendor stands, then cozy up with artisan and craft food and snack specialties.
