Best Nature and Wildlife Areas in Sherman Heights

"Located in the southwest corner of San Diego, the Tijuana Estuary is a wetlands area with beach, dune, mudflat, salt marsh, riparian, coastal sage scrub, and upland habitats that are free to explore. Start at the Visitor Center to learn about the trails, flora and fauna (many are rare or endangered), and various things to do during your visit. Kids can earn junior rangers here and they offer a variety of environmental education resources online."

"At the southernmost tip of San Diego is one of the most serene places that few people know about. Where the Tijuana River meets the sea is where you’ll find the Tijuana Slough with over 2,000 acres of wetlands. Over 370 bird species have been observed there with 5 of them being endangered species that are regularly seen."

"Way down in sometimes-forgotten Imperial Beach is found a favorite landscape for many people in San Diego. This Tijuana Estuary is connected to some couple of parks. You are going to find amazing places such as Tijuana River County Open Space Reserve and Border Field State Park."

"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."

"Famous for delicious gelato, Pappalecco is a Little Italy mainstay also offering freshly baked items, coffee, and light meals. Indulge in fresh cakes and sweets, enjoy a warm panini, or go for something lighter with a salad. With other locations in Cardiff, Del Mar, Hillcrest, and Kensington, as well as long hours, your family can easily find quick, easy, and delicious treats here that are sure to hit the spot."

"With four locations scattered throughout San Diego, Pappalecco is committed to bringing a taste of Tuscany to California. Guests can choose from a wide range of pizzas, paninis, and salads and plenty of vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian options are available. The gelato is carefully handcrafted using traditional Tuscan methods and contains only five main ingredients."

"Little Italy's Pappalecco, at 1602 State St. (between Date and Cedar streets), is another top choice. Yelpers give the cafe and Italian spot, which offers gelato and more, 4.5 stars out of 2,411 reviews."

"The Cravory specializes in amazingly sweet and unique cookies. They have two shops in San Diego, one in Point Loma and the other in Carlsbad but they also sell at local farmer’s markets. Just some of their cookie flavors include “Pancakes and Bacon,” “Rosemary Balsamic” and “Chocolate Truffle.” Get some to-go for the perfect take-home dessert and enjoy with your date along with some warm, liquored-up coffee or a White Russian for a sweet night cap."

"Your fam will love digging in to The Cravory's April cookie flavors from circus animal and caramel churro to chocolate velvet and oatmeal chocolate chip. Customize your order with a mix and match box for pick-up. Even more, try the Take and Bake chocolate chip cookies to make fresh at home."

"Point Loma Blvd., Suite M (between Sports Arena Boulevard and Groton Street), is another top choice. Yelpers give the bakery and catering spot, which offers cookies and other desserts, 4.5 stars out of 1,173 reviews."

"Bobboi is rated of the best dessert places in San Diego (and is top-rated by Yelp!), and rightfully so. The shop offers the best natural gelato made with organic ingredients. You’ll find tons of gelato flavors in addition to ocean views!"