Expert: Steve Summers - 5/13/2010

Question
I will be in San Diego 6/11 to 6/15 for a conference and this is my first trip to California (even though I was born there).  Several questions:
1). What are the must do's in San Diego?
2). Would like to drive along coastline to the Monterey area - would be leaving San Diego convention center area around 3 or 4 PM - where would you recommend driving to for the night (it will be a Tuesday night)? I will be traveling alone so would want a safe area.
3).  Recommended places (not too expensive) to stay near Monterey - would plan on going to the aquarium.
4).  Any other must do's?  I will have to fly back home on 6/19.

Thanks,

Kathi

Answer
Hi Kathi,

1. I have a pretty good knowledge of San Diego, but the true master is Local Wally. He can give you info beyond the usual answers of the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Balboa Park, and Old Town. Here is his web site: http://www.localwally.com

2. Depending on how far you want to drive, I think that the Anaheim area would be a good stop. I like to recommend the hotels around Disneyland, since they are safe, popular, and you would have a lot to do if you wanted to go see things (like Downtown Disney, which is free). I usually recommend the Howard Johnson, Candy Cane Inn, or Menage.  

3. Monterey is REALLY expensive. You can easily pay $250 for a motel 6 type of room. I would first check out the Gosby House, a very nice B&B in Pacific Grove. If you're going to pay $200 for a room, it might as well be a NICE room. You also get fed there, so it's a good value in my book. Victorian Inn is also a good place to stay, very close to Cannery Row.

4. I highly recommend stopping at Hearst Castle in San Simeon, and taking highway 1 up the coast from San Luis Obispo to Monterey. It's incredibly beautiful, especially around Big Sur. Also, stop at Pismo Beach if you can for a meal. The best clam chowder is served in a bread bowl at Splash Cafe. Don't let the long line dissuade you. Santa Barbara is a cool stop, as is Solvang, a cute little Danish town. And if you have time and want to make a quick stop in LA, stop at Hollywood & Highland, where you can see the walk of Fame, Chinese Theater, Kodak Theater, and the Hollywood & Highland Complex.

Have fun!