San Diego City Guide with @_makenziegrace

From its picturesque beaches to its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods, San Diego is a city with a little something for everyone. Just a short drive south of us, SD is home to breathtaking landscapes, like the coves of La Jolla and the trails of Torrey Pines, the best Mexican food north of the border, and more outdoor activities than one can cram into a lifetime. To learn more about this vast and eclectic city, we tapped Makenzie Lowe, founder of the eco-minded clothing swap, The Good Loop, to see where she loves to eat, shop, and hang.

What area of San Diego do you live in?

I live in Crown Point which is a cozy neighborhood right outside of Pacific Beach that sits on Mission Bay. I am about a block from the bay and a mile to the ocean. What's really special about this section of the bay is that there are several natural reserve areas so the wildlife and vegetation is always bursting with new colors and sounds depending on the seasons.

How long have you lived there?

I moved to San Diego in 2010 for college and after graduating I lived in LA for work for a small time. San Diego really felt like home and I made my way back in 2015 and have been here since. 

What is your favorite part of living in SD?

There is something here for everyone. The sub-sects of San Diego are all so different and each have their own unique feel. You have areas in San Diego that are arts focused, music focused, walkable to great restaurants, close to the beach, close to hiking trails etc. And no matter where you end up in San Diego, you’re never more than 15 minutes from a really beautiful natural space whether that be a hike or a park, bay or ocean. We also have a ton of different communal outdoor spaces and community events that help get people together outside. 

Favorites to Eat/Drink/Get Coffee:

Pannikin has been my go-to place to get work done since college. I used to study for exams here and now it’s my favorite way to switch up my days when working from home. I always order either a chai latte with oat milk or a honey & oat milk cappuccino. Their house made frittata is also amazing!

Costa Brava is a special and almost secret little Spanish restaurant in Pacific Beach. They are known for their delicious tapas and sangria, and occasionally live music while you dine. This gem is walking distance from my house so it’s one of my favorite places to go on a warm summer night with girlfriends or for a cozy date night.

Lastly, there’s Wayfarer, a bakery and coffee shop I’m so grateful we love so close to. It simply has the best baked goods I’ve ever (!) eaten. Scones, galettes, cookies, croissants, and more; everything is made in-house by the talented Crystal White who opened Proof Bakery in LA and worked at Tartine in San Francisco. There is usually a line out the door, but it’s always worth the way. OH! And they also make incredible house-made pizzas a few nights a week. It’s a must stop-by if you’re in San Diego. 

Spots to Shop:

D.G. Wills Books has the most thoughtful collection of vintage, used, and new books. I love finding gifts for family here during the holidays or to just peruse around after grabbing coffee at Pannikin. 

Captain’s Helm is about a half hour drive from where I live, but it’s so worth it! Their vintage clothes and amazing home decor really are one-of-a-kind. We love driving up here on the weekend.

La Loupe Vintage has two locations in San Diego and has a beautiful curated selection of vintage clothes, shoes, and accessories. Whether it's the perfect pair of vintage Levi’s for me or a tee for my partner, they really come through with their quality finds. They also have great sales on the full moon so that’s always fun to watch out for!

Places to Hang:

Balboa Park is home to more than 16 museums, multiple performing arts venues, lovely gardens, trails, and botanic gardens. I used to attend a pottery class here a few years ago and coming to the Spanish Villa was the highlight of my week. Last year for my birthday, my boyfriend gifted me with a year-long explorer pass to all the museums. In the summer they also have movies in the park where they set up a giant projector screen and play iconic vintage films. 

We can’t forget about the views of the Pacific, and there’s no better place to take it all in than Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma. It’s the perfect place to walk along the ocean and end your day with the most gorgeous sunset.