Best Nature and Parks (RV, National, Dog, etc) in Santee

"Just fifteen minutes’ drive west of downtown San Diego, you can find a stunning stretch of coastline known as the Sunset Cliffs. Now protected as a natural park, the area is named for its steep coastal cliffs that look out over the ocean and is a very popular place to watch the sun set over the Pacific. Tumbling their way down to the ocean, the sheer cliffs and craggy coastal bluffs certainly make for a dramatic sight with hidden coves, tidal pools, and beaches lying at their foot."

"Sunset Cliffs Natural Park encompasses 68-acres of resource-based land that is situated along the western edge of Point Loma. Here you will find sea caves, arches, and coastal bluffs, and you’ll be privy to stunning ocean views. From the cliffs (be careful), you might be lucky enough to catch the California seasonal whale migrations and dolphins but be sure to see the sunsets."

"Sunset Cliffs Natural Park has been offering visitors gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean and the western edge of Point Loma since 1983, making it a staple in lists featuring the most famous things to see in San Diego."

"This two-mile strip of secluded beach below the cliffs of the Torrey Pines Gliderport (adjacent to the UC San Diego campus immediately south of Torrey Pines State Beach) is known for two things: (i) nude beach, and (ii) surfing. The beach is named for the Black family, who formerly owned a farm on the cliffs above. They later sold the farm, and it was developed into the expensive residential homes of La Jolla Farms."

"Why go: To surf or enjoy some quiet (note that some people still go nude here). Black’s Beach is a secluded section of beach beneath the bluffs of Torrey Pines, and is officially part of Torrey Pines State Beach. Black’s Beach is perhaps most notorious for its status as San Diego’s only nude beach, though that’s no longer allowed in the more southern portion managed by the City of San Diego."

"Spend some time on Coronado Beach, then grab lunch at Coronado Brewing Company before heading back on the ferry. Stroll up the Embarcadero and visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego and USS Midway Museum. After gazing at ships both antique and modern, walk north to Little Italy, where you can sample more local beers at Bottlecraft before dining at one of the neighborhood’s fantastic restaurants, such as Herb & Wood."

"This wide beach is one of San Diego's most picturesque thanks to its soft white sand and sparkly blue water. The historic Hotel Del Coronado…"

"Coronado Beach has been named the number one beach in the United States in the 2012 survey by Stephen P."

"Travelers who want to put themselves in a relaxing mood may want to head to Coronado Island, where a laid-back small-town atmosphere prevails. The quaint island community is connected to San Diego by the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. Whether strolling on the beach or riding a rental bike around the inland, visitors can partake of the charm of this community, home to the Coronado museum of History and Art, the shops and art galleries at Ferry Landing, and views of San Diego across the bay."

"Coronado Island I recommend another taste of the beach for your final day of your one week itinerary to Southern California. Drive across the bridge and enjoy your final hours enjoying this beautiful coastal town of Coronado."

"The fittingly, but lazily named, Windansea Beach in La Jolla is a mecca for surfers. This exposed stretch of coast is known for its high-speed winds and rough waters, perfect for those looking for a rush out on the waves. Windansea has appeared in many surf movies and documentaries over the years due to its reputation for huge swells."

"This unique Asian Fusion, steak, and sushi restaurant is located adjacent to the La Jolla Playhouse on the UCSD campus. Note: Closed on Mondays. Local favorites include: the Lemon roll, Don Juan roll, and the 808 roll."

"Whether it’s a group of friends meeting for weekend brunch, a family looking for a fortifying breakfast before embarking on their San Diego adventure, or a local looking to snag a quick cup of coffee on their way to work, Harbor Breakfast is a charming and quaint café everyone will love. Their menu options include dishes like the roasted red bell pepper omelet made with asparagus, green onion, zucchini, and herbed cream cheese or the corned beef hash with two eggs any style. The tantalizing menu and upbeat urban diner vibe make them a must-visit breakfast spot for travelers."

"OceansideGet here early to snag a picnic table overlooking the Oceanside Harbor. Best for brunch, this reasonably priced spot is known for fresh-baked cinnamon coffee cake, enormous pancakes, and chicken-fried steak doused with homemade country gravy."