If you are a San Diego hiker and haven't done this hike- WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???…read more And for those of you who see these photos and think damn I need to go do that, please be aware of the temperature because it is dangerously hot down there at lower temperatures than in other areas. The hike goes down into a canyon and the heat settles down there. Even if it's not as hot as you think coming up can be extremely dangerous. Every year I hear about somebody dying from heat stroke on that hike so don't take it lightly. I always check the weather on the actual trail using the AllTrails app. I saw that the weather out there was max 65° that day and I was like hell yeah. The hike really isn't that difficult, 3 miles down and then 3 miles back up. Lots of nice switchbacks, and there are a few sun shelters for shade. The views are gorgeous all along the trail. I've done this hike, probably 20 times over the years. It's the best in the spring and in the fall. In the winter it's way too cold. The reward for this hike is the gorgeous rock bowl and waterfall that the locals call Devils Punchbowl. This past Thursday when we did this hike, there were a lot of young folks at the Punchbowl when we got there. Some of the guys were climbing up and jumping into the water. I would not recommend it, even if the waterfall is still flowing that water is not safe to swim in. In the fall, the waterfall doesn't flow anymore after being dried out over the brutal summer, but the trees at the bottom of the canyon turn a beautiful gold color. One of the few places in San Diego you can actually experience fall.

Having lived in San Diego for so long, I honestly don't know why it took me this long to do this…read morehike. I finally got the permit online (definitely download it before you arrive since service can be spotty) and decided to go for it. I went in early May and started the trail around 8am, which turned out to be a great decision. The trail was practically empty at that time, and the downhill views were absolutely beautiful. I even saw two rattlesnakes before 9am, so definitely stay alert while hiking. At several points I had to remind myself I was still in San Diego and not somewhere in a huge national park. Once I got near the bottom, I did lose track of the trail a little and it was SOS, so having the AllTrails map downloaded beforehand was really helpful. It took me a little over an hour to reach the waterfall, and there were only two other people there at the time, which made it feel really peaceful and private. The water felt AMAZING after the hike down. There were so many fish in the water, and the whole area was honestly so pretty. By the time I started heading back around 10am, I noticed a lot more people arriving at the falls. The hike back up wasn't terrible, but the sun definitely makes it much harder on the return. I was very happy to make it back to the parking lot by around 11:30am. I would definitely bring lots of water, sunscreen, and some snacks.

The Cleveland National Forest is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. My niece drove…read moreme through part of the forest on the way to Three Sisters Falls. The mountain views were indescribable. Pictures do not due it justice. The roads were a little scary, narrow with big drop-offs on one side. I'm glad I wasn't driving lol! If you get the chance to check it out, I highly recommend you do! If you want to hike, be sure to use proper shoes and bring sunscreen and lots of water.

I love coming out here! Usually it's just driving through, but one of the most memorable hikes I've…read moredone is Garnet Peak Trail. It was just challenging enough to feel like we earned it, but was still enjoyable. We had a picnic on the top and the whole peak to ourselves for a picnic as the clouds rolled in below. Make a plan before you go, many areas have a parking fee, easily payable online. AllTrails lists a lot of trails in the area that I've bookmarked for hikes this Fall/Winter. I stay towards the beach more in the summer months, but I look forward to updating this review when I explore new parts of this beautiful forest!

Very stunning and beautiful place! It was $20 for our vehicle to enter and was completely worth the…read moreentrance fee! Things start to close between 4:00-4:30pm (some of the trails you must start before 2pm) and they will start to escort people off the monument shortly before 5pm! So plan accordingly if you want to visit more than one location or do a hike. The park rangers are super helpful and kind so don't be afraid to approach them if you have any questions or just want to know more about the area!

I've been here a few times and love this National Monument. Some people that have reviewed this…read moreplace didn't think too much about the tidepools but I disagree with their reviews. I came here recently with Environment California as they were having a guided tidepooling event so I signed up. By attending the event, you also get the $20 entry fee waived so thats really nice. I came earlier than the tidepooling event around 10:30am and had an our to check out the visitor center and then made my way to the tidepool area. If you come earlier, parking is not an issue. But, when I left around 2pm, parking is pretty difficult. My suggestion is to come early. Low tide was from 12pm - 4pm on the day I came and the science educator and the lead from Environment California both did a great job explaining the wildlife in the tidepools and the importance of marine protection areas. I had a great time here looking at all the fun little organisms that live in the tidepools. I saw all sorts of hermit crabs, a Hopkins rose nudibranch, a crab that was eating a kelp pod, and so many snails and mussels and little fishes, tadpoles! The 2 hours flew by and I thoroughly learned so much and also met some great people fighting for marine protection. I would definitely come back here again to look at the amazing ecosystem and get a dose of sun and nature. And never mind all the birds I saw too! I was completely overwhelmed and at one point had a hard time fumbling between binoculars and phone to take videos and photos! I love this place, definitely will come back!!

Lucha Libre Taco Shop is such a fun and unique spot if you're in San Diego. The whole place is…read moredecked out in colorful lucha libre decor, with masks, murals, and a super lively vibe that makes it more than just a taco shop, it feels like an experience. The menu has a great variety of tacos and burritos, with bold flavors and generous portions. Everything feels a little extra (in a good way), from the creative combinations to their famous "Surfin' California" burrito.

Food is wonderful!!!! Really love the tacos. Everything tasted fresh and flavorful, with great…read moreseasoning and perfect textures. The tortillas were soft and authentic, and the fillings were generous. Service was quick and friendly, and the atmosphere was fun. Would definitely recommend!

Legoland, the Disneyland alternative in Southern California. Amazing theme park for teens and young…read moreadults. I myself am in my 30s and I felt like I was too old for it, but I enjoyed the rides nonetheless. 1. Galacticoaster- 5/5 similar to space mountain at Disneyland but faster and more intense, it's their newest ride with the longest line, but I purchased their $170 fast pass that had 5 minute wait to save time on a busy day. Not worth it unless it's spring break or summer for the fast pass. Top 3 best attractions there. 2. Emmets flying adventure ride - 5/5 best attraction at park, it is like a journey ride where you are lifted in an 8 row seat across into a platform that allows you to watch legos in a sky city traveling through clouds. 3. Technic Coaster - 5/5 top 3 best ride there. Most intense ride with strong g forces on the drop. It's like crazy mouse coaster but more intense. Mainly for thin or small people due to small restraints. I'm skinny so fit just fine in it. 4. Ninjago - 5/5 top 5 ride at park, adventure ride with points to hitting Lego ninjas, it's a game ride and line can be long, go to it first as it is near entrance. Fun family sit down shooter for points. Great music and ambiance. 5. Coastersaurus/dragon coaster - 4.5/5 similar coasters, but for teenagers. The coastersaurus goes around twice but is short, the dragon coaster is a unique themed dragon coaster, very fun for families. 6. Coast cruise - 4/5 river boat ride with commentary, relaxing but can be hot on a summer day. It was alright, not that special but relaxing, basically "it's a small world" from Disneyland but outside. The rest of the attractions are below a 4/5. So about 5-6 rides are great. I will make honorable mention to the submarine ride, but it was like a 4/5. You go underwater in submarine and find treasure. It was decent but I would say Disneyland has a better submarine ride. Other notable mentions are that the food there is not great, my friend and I ordered hamburgers and fries, they really need better food. This place was by the galacticoaster. Below the galacticoaster has disco drop kitty and there are ramen and other restaurants in that area near emmets flying ride but I reckon it is unhealthy. An amazing family theme park overall, I enjoyed it more than Disneyland due to less crowd but also same or similar quality rides and the quantity of rides and Lego stores and activities were great. Parking lot was massive and a very odd scenery of Lego castle front. The sea life aquarium was amazing! I enjoyed touching the starfish, sea anemone and sea urchins along with looking at jellyfish glowing. Definitely a great addition. I want to come back in the future after 30 years since my last visit. Definitely worth going to when it's not busy otherwise, you're forced to purchase the fast pass which can be expensive for $170. You get on all rides at least with it guaranteed regardless of the overpacked crowds we witnessed that day we went.

Purchased the 3 day tickets from Costco used one of them on 2/22/26. Expiration says 6/6/26. Tried…read moreto go for the second day 5/16/26. Now all of a sudden the other days had to be used within 60 days of first visit. I'm not able to put into words how tragic this is to my 3 kids. I'm trying to console them while I spent 25 mins calling Legoland and NEVER being able to get to speak to an actual human. All this aside, Legoland is the biggest waste of money. It is absolutely the most boring amusement park in existence. There's barely anything to do without spending extra money. The rides are only fun for kids under 3 but you have to be taller than a 3 year old to go on any of them. The food is like cardboard. The displays are ugly and definitely not worth the cost of admission. Shame on legoland for misleading consumers, for traumatizing my kids, and for stealing my money. Same for Costco to allow this to happen to their members.