Give coastal California experiences from La Jolla sea cave kayak tours and surf lessons to San Diego Zoo memberships and whale watching cruises with marine naturalists. Discover three Michelin-starred dining at Addison, specialty teas from Paru Tea Bar rooted in Southeast Asian heritage, and waterfront shopping at Seaport Village and Liberty Public Market. From budget-friendly fish tacos at Lucha Libre to Balboa Park Explorer Passes, celebrate San Diego's laid-back beach culture and year-round sunshine.
Local Gift Shops
Year-round boutiques and specialty stores perfect for gift-giving (not holiday markets)
Paru Tea Bar
Specialty tea shop offering teas sourced directly from farmers with original blends rooted in Southeast Asian heritage.
- Specialty teas
- Original blends
- Tea accessories
Address: 3993 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Gaslamp Quarter Shops
Historic downtown district with unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops along 5th Avenue.
- Unique boutiques
- Local art
- Specialty gifts
Address: 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Seaport Village
Waterfront shopping complex featuring local artisans, specialty shops, and unique San Diego souvenirs.
- Artisan crafts
- Souvenirs
- Waterfront shopping
Address: 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Liberty Public Market
Artisan marketplace in Point Loma featuring local vendors, gourmet foods, and unique gifts.
- Artisan foods
- Local products
- Specialty items
Address: 2820 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106
Pigment
North Park boutique offering unique home goods, gifts, and locally-made art and accessories.
- Home goods
- Local art
- Unique gifts
Address: 3801 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Local Experiences
Give the gift of unforgettable experiences
La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour
Guided kayak adventure through kelp forests and sea caves with opportunities to spot seals and sea lions.
Included: Kayak rental, gear, and expert guide
Price: $60-$80 per person
Address: 2199 Avenida de la Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037
Surfing Lessons
Learn to surf at La Jolla Shores or Pacific Beach with all equipment and expert instruction included.
Included: Board, wetsuit, and professional instruction
Price: $75-$120 per person
Address: La Jolla Shores, San Diego, CA 92037
Whale Watching Cruise
Eco-friendly cruise to observe gray whales and dolphins with expert marine naturalist guides.
Included: Cruise admission and expert commentary
Price: $50-$100 per person
Address: 1775 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106
San Diego Zoo Membership
Year-round access to world-famous San Diego Zoo with over 3,700 animals and special member events.
Included: Unlimited zoo visits and member perks
Price: $90-$130 per year
Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Balboa Park Explorer Pass
Access to multiple museums and attractions in beautiful Balboa Park's cultural hub.
Included: Multi-museum admission and park access
Price: $60-$80 per person
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Restaurant Gift Cards
Budget-Friendly ($15-$50)
Great restaurants that won't break the bank
Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop
Vibrant taqueria serving creative California-Mexican fusion tacos in a luchador-themed atmosphere.
Address: 1810 W Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103
Wahoo's Fish Taco
Beach-inspired chain offering fresh fish tacos and Mexican-inspired dishes with a surfer vibe.
Address: Multiple San Diego locations
Buona Forchetta
Authentic Neapolitan pizzeria serving wood-fired pizzas and traditional Italian cuisine.
Address: 3001 Beech St, San Diego, CA 92102
Mid-Range ($50-$150)
Popular spots with excellent food and atmosphere
Crest Cafe
Hillcrest institution serving classic American comfort food 24/7 with generous portions.
Address: 425 Robinson Ave, San Diego, CA 92103
Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Upscale steakhouse offering prime cuts, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine collection.
Address: 8970 University Center Ln, San Diego, CA 92122
Anthony's Fish Grotto
Waterfront seafood restaurant serving fresh catches with stunning harbor views since 1946.
Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Fine Dining ($150+)
Upscale dining experiences
Lilo
Michelin-starred 22-seat tasting menu restaurant in Carlsbad offering an intimate, curated culinary experience.
Address: 2978 Carlsbad Blvd, Carlsbad, CA 92008
Addison
San Diego's only three Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined contemporary French cuisine.
Address: 5200 Grand Del Mar Way, San Diego, CA 92130
Amaya at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Elegant fine dining featuring seasonal California cuisine with Mediterranean influences.
Address: 5200 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in San Diego.