Arnold Ceponis, MD, PhD, Associate Clinical Professor, Rheumatology Training Program Director, University of California, San Diego, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy & Immunology, and Tania L. Rivera, MD, of the Rheumatology Center of San Diego, shared some of their favorite places to take visitors to San Diego.
If there was one place or event you’d take a visitor, what would it be?
Dr. Ceponis: The whale and dolphin watching tour that usually departs from Harbor Drive close to the Convention Center. The passes through historic landmarks like the Point Loma Light House and Cabrillo National Museum. Professionally trained staff gives tours. Get tickets in advance!
What are your other favorite parts of San Diego?
Dr. Rivera: My top 10 places to go with visitors (solo and with family) are:
- San Diego Zoo (pandas!)
- Balboa Park (California Tower with beautiful views of downtown San Diego)
- La Jolla Cove (sea lions)
- Coronado (and the Hotel Del Coronado)
- Old Town (lunch at Casa Guadalajara for authentic Mexican food and mariachis)
- Torrey Pines Reserve (trail from the hills to the beach)
- Torrey Pines Gliderport (watch paragliders at sunset)
- Sunset Cliffs at sunset
- Encinitas (Botanic Garden)
- Shelter Island (famous Mai Tai at Bali Hai restaurant)
Dr. Ceponis: Downtown (Little Italy), Embarcadero, Old Town, La Jolla Cove, and Hillcrest.
What’s the best advice you have for visitors?
Dr. Rivera: If driving, be careful because we drive fast! Minimum 75-80 mph freeway, although legally it should be 65. It has always surprised the visitors.
Dr. Ceponis: Chose only one or two activities a day and do the planning and reservations in advance! Make sure you think about transportation.
What locations/restaurants really show off what San Diego has to offer?
Dr. Ceponis: In La Jolla Shores, the Marine Room is an upscale place somewhat farther from downtown. In Pacific Beach, The Fishery has excellent seafood and is one of the oldest restaurants in town.
Dr. Rivera: I like Caroline’s Seaside Cafe for brunch — not expensive, laid back, and beautiful views of La Jolla Shores. For dinner, Ki’s restaurant or Pacific Coast Grill (Cardiff by the Sea) overlooking the ocean, if you’re driving.