As the world hit pause during 2020, many important life celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, baby showers, and family reunions came to a halt. However, as travel restrictions continue to lift and safety protocols are set in place, it is finally time to hit the reset button. 

Families, couples, and friends planning to redo missed celebrations should look to San Diego for inspiration. With spectacular scenery, a healthy beach city lifestyle, and diverse experiences ranging from serene to exciting, San Diego is the perfect destination to do over those special life celebrations.   

The Family Reunion

After a year spent indoors and sitting in front of screens, familymoons, babymoons, and reunion trips are an excellent way for families to create brand-new lifetime memories. Home to Southern California’s top theme parks and numerous museums, San Diego is a playground for kids and the young-at-heart where the whole clan can discover new adventures together at its most iconic attractions.

• In June, the San Diego Zoo will open two new exhibits: the Komodo Kingdom featuring magnificent giant Komodo dragons, and the Hummingbird Habitat aviary with more than 40 tropical birds. At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, families can see their favorite wildlife up close through various safari experiences. Thrill-seekers can head to SeaWorld San Diego and experience its heart-pounding Electric Eel ride. The much-anticipated Emperor will be the first, tallest, and fastest floorless dive coaster in California when it opens this year. The creative at heart can immerse themselves at THE LEGO® MOVIE™ WORLD, the newest attraction at LEGOLAND California Resort. Kids can step into Bricksburg and be part of THE LEGO Movie universe. For the ultimate SoCal beach vibe, Belmont Park, San Diego’s classic beachfront amusement park, offers families a day of play, fun rides, and dining under the sun. 

• Museums are a great way for families to experience a destination’s cultural landscape while learning about science, art, history, or even a day in the life of a naval officer. Balboa Park is San Diego’s cultural heart and one of its most photographed sites. Families can spend a whole day strolling along the park’s promenades and through beautiful gardens or exploring its 17 museums. Opening in Summer 2021, the Comic-Con Museum will bring the world of comics, film, science fiction, and fantasy to Balboa Park and pop culture fans. Located in downtown, The New Children’s Museum immerses kids with inventive and engaging experiences, while the all-time family favorite USS Midway Museum offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a historic aircraft carrier along the waterfront. 

Turning 40…Again

With an entire year on standby, milestone birthdays – turning 21, 30, or 40 years old – were probably the most-missed celebrations, and these important life occasions deserve to be commemorated. Whether looking for a relaxed beach get-together or an exciting bash, it is never too late to make up for these lost opportunities and celebrate in San Diego.

• San Diego offers 70 miles of spectacular coastline and beautiful beaches. Preferred beach towns like Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are the perfect laidback escapades. Visitors can spend the day sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, catching the sunset, and making S’mores on a bonfire at night. When hungry, the celebration can move to one of many beachfront restaurants like Pacific Beach’s Waterbar, serving a fresh seafood menu, refreshing drinks, and panoramic ocean views. 

• The city experience is also a notable part of San Diego’s lifestyle. Lively neighborhoods like North Park, Little Italy, and the Gaslamp Quarter abound with restaurants, bars, and breweries to sing and toast that special birthday person. In the heart of downtown, Lumi by world-renowned chef Akira Back is an upscale rooftop restaurant featuring a lively ambiance, delicious Japanese fare, and handcrafted libations. For a very exclusive celebration, the recently launched Young Blood is one of San Diego’s newest speakeasies; for an all-inclusive fee, guests can enjoy a unique, customized cocktail experience. 

The Romantic Escape

San Diego celebrates love, and with a challenging year like 2020, a romantic getaway is needed more than ever. Couples who missed celebrating wedding anniversaries or having special honeymoons can redo those plans and fall in love all over again in San Diego.

• Located in Torrey Pines just north of the village of La Jolla, Estancia La Jolla is a hacienda-style resort featuring top-notch accommodations, outdoor yoga classes, lush gardens, poolside cabanas, and al fresco dining options. The charming resort is also near the award-winning La Jolla Playhouse and celebrated Torrey Pines Golf Course. Couples can experience complete rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul with a Couples Bungalow Escape massage treatment at The Spa at Estancia. The romantic experience includes soaking in a private tub, massage, champagne, and chocolate truffles. 

• San Diego boasts breathtaking ocean views and romantic sunsets. Couples can delight in both while sailing around beautiful San Diego Bay on a private Sunset Sail charter with San Diego Sailing Tours. The intimate 2-hour tour includes beer, wine or bubbly, and golden skyline views as the sun sets on the water. In Coronado, The Gondola Company takes couples on a gentle 50-minute cruise around the scenic canals of the Coronado Cays in a private gondola. Wines, non-alcoholic beverages, and locally crafted chocolate truffles can be added to enhance the romantic experience.  

Happiness is calling you back to San Diego. For more information on San Diego’s offerings, including exciting vacation packages and valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit the San Diego Tourism Authority’s website at www.sandiego.org. For safe, healthy travel while in our destination, we encourage you to follow the guidance of our Safe Traveler Pledge.

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Funded in part with City of San Diego Tourism Marketing District Assessment Funds.