Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Miramar

"San Diego Zoo Safari Park is one of the best things to do in San Diego for kids though plenty of adults go for the safaris, to see the animals, and learn more about conservation. Large free-range enclosures are designed to closely mimic the natural habitats of exotic animals like rhinos, camels, cheetahs, gorillas, giraffes, lions, tigers, warthogs, wild cattle, and zebras. More than 3,000 animals representing 300 species roam freely throughout the park, and you can see them from trams, golf carts, trucks, large helium balloons, and zip lines."

"The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is an expansive wildlife sanctuary that is home to more than 3,000 animals representing more than 300 species. Its renowned botanical collection represents 3,500 species and 1.75 million specimens. Over half of the Park’s 1,800 acres have been set aside as protected native species habitat."

"Escondido’s best-known attraction is Safari Park, the sister park to the San Diego Zoo. The Safari Park is 1800-plus acres of exotic animals and botanical gardens galore, carved out of the hills just outside Escondido."

"Hikers at Batiquitos can look forward to a low-elevation, wetland walk on a 3.25-mile trail that winds through a park-like environment. If you go, you’ll encounter lots of families, dog walkers, and more than a few bird watchers. Owls, ducks, swans and other water-loving birds make Batiquitos their home in large numbers."

"With various parking areas on the northern side, Batiquitos Lagoon is a great stop for a two-mile hike. Just east of Interstate 5, the area is home to 610 acres of lagoon space and has been preserved for public enjoyment from oceanic silt buildup. Bicycles are not allowed, though pets are – provided they are on a leash."

"You can also volunteer for monthly trail maintenance and lagoon cleanups. During normal times, docents lead tours along the trails, pointing out various flora and fauna along the way. (Location: Carlsbad)"

"After taking in some of the best restaurants in Escondido or best brunch spots in Carlsbad, head to Daley Ranch to walk off what you just ate. With over 3,000 miles of conservation area to explore, you can enjoy the natural vegetation, oak woodlands, grasslands, and more. And if you’re interested in some history, there are plenty of old buildings to explore on the property too."

"This 3,000-acre conservation area near Dixon Lake was established in 1996 to help preserve biologically unique habitats. There are six trails totaling more than 20 miles that are good for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Rangers offer tours of the Daley Ranch House and its outbuildings every second Sunday."

"The park was named after Christopher (Kit) Carson, the famous scout who guided Captain John C. Fremont over the Sierra Nevada Mountains during a government exploration expedition. The City of Escondido acquired the land for its largest regional park from the City of San Diego in 1967. Address:3333 Bear Valley Parkway, Escondido, CA 92025"

"Los Peñasquitos (“little cliffs”) is a great beginners’ trail for those who want to enjoy mountain-feel views without having to hire an expedition crew. There are two approaches (east and west), and the trailheads offer a trek of either 6.5, or 5.5 miles, respectively. The terrain is gradual and level, but the trails are surrounded by the sort of views that gave the area its name: scenic rocky outcroppings, and stony formations that ripple with rubble."

"Bring Fido to cheers a birthday or just for a fun family night out. Even more, there's a doggie menu, dog decor, and each dog gets a water bowl. Kids love this pooch-friendly place given all the dog watching, the kids coloring menu and free birthday sundae dessert."

"A favorite dish at this diner is their biscuits & gravy, with the homemade Chicken Fried Steak coming in a close second. Or you might want to try their spicy Cajun Sausage Skillet."

"I make really good gravy but everybody bragged on their gravy and I'm so glad I ordered the skillet breakfast smothered in gravy...."

"1555 Camino Del Mar Del Mar, CA 92014 858-847-2284 32 Stores Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM  Sunday: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM  Major Retailers: Specialty shops, Il Fornaio, Pacifica Del Mar, gourmet market"

"Taka Sushi’s food earns it a spot on the best sushi in San Diego lineup, and its location in the Gaslamp offers the perfect contrast to the busy, colorful spots surrounding it. The food is delicious and the atmosphere relaxing. What more could you ask for?"

"Though from the outside this Pacific Beach sushi restaurant looks like just another strip mall restaurant, it is almost undisputedly recognized as San Diego’s best sushi place. This sushi combination is just the beginning — if you’re adventurous you can try local live uni, beef sashimi and more. If you can, try and sit at the sushi bar to meet Chef Ota himself and so you can watch the masters at work and learn what’s fresh."