If you’re staying in San Diego for any length of time, you’ll find out that each of the areas that make up San Diego has its own cool vibe. One of the areas that I’ve spent a great deal of time in is the Point Loma/Ocean Beach zone. If you blend Ocean Beach, a scenic, laid-back, hippie beach town and Point Loma, an area conveniently filled with tons of shops, restaurants and services, you’ve got a section of town that fills many of your family-friendly, travel-related needs.

WHAT TO DO

Stroll, Picnic and Play at Shoreline Park: Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade at Shoreline Park. Stop for a picnic near the play structure and take in the breathtaking views of the Bay and downtown San Diego.

Watch the sunset at Ocean Beach: Take your toad out right before sunset and park it at Ocean Beach. You can let the kids play in the sand while you gaze at the setting sun.

Visit Old Town: This historic San Diego cultural attraction is just minutes from the area and can provide free entertainment for the family for a whole day. Old Town is chock-full of cute shops to wander in and out of and tons of restaurants to choose from.

Play at Liberty Station NTC Park: Spend a few hours getting your daily dose of vitamin D at this lovely park which features two fabulous playground areas for the kiddos.

WHERE TO EAT

Issara Thai: This great Thai restaurant is located at 2558 Laning Road in Liberty Station. It’s got a kid-friendly menu and super fresh and tasty Thai food.

Thai Time II: If you’re looking for a great lunch deal, this little Thai eatery at 3545 Midway Drive in Point Loma hits the spot.

People’s Organic Food Market: This festive food cooperative located at 4765 Voltaire Street in Ocean Beach has a hot and cold foods bar featuring a variety of scrumptious, organic foods.

Stephanie’s Bakery: This adorable vegan bakery located at 4879 Voltaire Street in Ocean Beach serves up vegan and gluten-free desserts, pizza and sandwiches. Their vegan/gluten-free brownies are delectable!

CBW: This healthy fast food joint located at 3145 Sports Arena Boulevard in Point Loma serves up yummy bowls and wraps. I especially love their condiment bar and the fact that the menu has plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

WHERE TO SHOP

People’s Organic Food Market: This great food coop, mentioned above, is also a wonderful place to buy your groceries.

Ralphs’s: This Kroger owned go-to grocery store located at 3345 Sports Arena Boulevard has everything you need.

Trader Joe’s: Who doesn’t love being near a Trader Joe’s? Thankfully, there is one conveniently located at 2401 Truxtun Road in Point Loma.

Sprouts Farmer’s Market: If you like to choose from a huge variety of fresh foods, you’ll want to visit this store located at 3315 Rosencrans in Point Loma.