Australian-born, California-raised, pro surfer Rob Machado has spent most of his life atop a surfboard. Still one of surfing’s most iconic and beloved figures, he never strays too far from his favorite San Diego swells.

With nearly 90 golf courses in every conceivable setting from mountains to desert to ocean, it's no wonder Golf Digest named San Diego one of the Top 50 golf destinations in the world.

With San Diego’s temperate weather keeping local links in playing condition year-round, duffers and scratch golfers alike can get their fill of the wide fairways, rolling hills, stunning landscapes and challenging play that awaits players of all skill levels.

The San Diego County Bicycle Coalition's recommended route incorporates almost six miles one way of flat, scenic bike paths along the northeast corner of San Diego Bay. With the exception of one short section and the easy going roads of Liberty Station, this bike route is vehicle free.

As a professional photographer, my travel plans always include finding the best places to shoot pictures. And San Diego has a bounty of great spots. Beautiful beaches, lush gardens, interesting architecture, public art and Southern California’s outdoor lifestyle all provide the perfect background for travel pictures. Here's a list of my favorite places to shoot in San Diego.