From a local’s point of view, a lot of
San Diego landmarks might just seem like over-glorified places that people come to see on vacation. To an outsider, these places can hold a completely different significance. Whether you are a local or out-of-towner, there are places that San Diego has to offer that signify the essence and very character of what San Diego is as a state. These aren’t just the local popular tourist attractions that people flock to every year. These are the areas that truly represent what the state is. Where are these areas and how do you go about visiting them?
Mount Soledad
To some, this might just be an 800-foot hill, but it is so much more than that. It might be an 800-foot hill, but it sits across the top of La Jolla and provides a totally encapsulating 360-degree view of the city and the Pacific Ocean. There is no place on earth better to see San Diego or the Pacific Ocean. The mount is only accessible via a winding road that offers mountaintop parking along with a beautiful grassy area for a picnic. Whether it is breathtaking views, picnics, some time away, or something different you are looking for, you’ll likely find it here at
Mount Soledad.
Mount Helix
Many would say that
Moun Helix is just an East County counterpart of Mount Soledad, but it is so much more than that. It sits right at the top of Interstate 8 and is accessible via a winding road that weaves and bends through an exclusive residential area. Once at the top, you’ll have 360-degrees views of the entire Eastern part of San Diego County. What makes the entire area even more interesting is, there is an amphitheater located at the top of the mountain. It’s commonly used for theatrical events as well as popular Easter sunrise services. Neither of these will be something you’ll want to miss if you have the opportunity.
Torrey Pines State Reserve
Looking for a little nature coupled with true beauty? That’s what you’ll get at
Torrey Pines plus a whole lot more. This area is a 2000-acre preserved wilderness that offers some of the area’s most beautiful views. It offers the best of the best of Southern California. It’s the largest stretch of nearly pristine land that is full of hiking trails, gorgeous forestland, and unparalleled vistas. Whether you are an aspiring photographer, looking to capture postcard-like photos, or just want to be left with your jaw on the ground, you’ll get exactly what you are looking for here.
This one is also known as “The Kiss” and when you see it, you’ll understand why. It’s a full-color state located on the San Diego waterfront that brings to life a returning sailor sweeping the love of his life off her feet. This one is located near the USS Midway Museum so you can hit it up on the way there or the way back. The statue commemorates the end of World War II and the true joy that the returning soldier and sailors experienced when returning safely to their loved ones.
