San Diego's most popular attraction spans 70 miles and draws millions of visitors yearly — these three beach towns are a must-visit during a trip to San Diego.

The beautiful community of La Jolla is known as "the jewel" of San Diego, and it certainly lives up to that description. This upscale seaside community is known for its gorgeous ocean views and pristine beaches. It's also known for its shopping, offering everything from luxury labels to unique designers, as well as one-of-a-kind boutiques.

Hillcrest has always been known for good food. The epicenter of the LGBTQ+ community could arguably be considered San Diego's first foodie neighborhood. Before the tide of craft breweries, artisanal doughnuts and design-conscious bistros, the area offered a wide variety of tastes, cultures and price points. Hillcrest — along with neighboring Balboa Park and Bankers Hill — keeps things fresh and exciting, welcoming adventurous flavors from all corners of the world.

From San Diego staples to new kids on the block bound for distinction, these neighborhoods are filled with so many top restaurants, you may never get to them all. But there's no reason not to try! Restaurants of every genre fill cozy corner spots, high-ceilinged expanses and mood-lit nooks — and finding the best is a worthy endeavor. Here are a few stars to point you in the right direction.

Whether you're shopping for yourself or hoping to bring home a special gift for a loved one, San Diego has you covered. The key is to find those unique items that create lasting memories. Check out these 12 hidden gems to achieve exactly that!