The post San Diego’s Best Swap Meets appeared first on San Diego.
]]>You never know when you’re going to run across antiques, oddball offerings, low-priced goodies at a fraction of retail, or “who knows what” when you put on a pair of comfortable shoes and head for a local flea market. You’ve got several to choose from across San Diego County. Some are bigger than others, but they’re all perfect for explorers who don’t mind browsing and getting a little exercise in search of that perfect something.
Perhaps the biggest and well-known of all swap meets is Kobey’s Sports Arena Swap Meet (3500 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego). A self-described “clean, family-oriented outdoor marketplace,” you’ll find hundreds of people who flock to all types of dealers offering everything from plants and household decor to clothing, toys, artwork, and more. Kobey’s operates Friday, Saturday, and Sundays from 7 am to 3 pm with $1 admission on Friday and $3 on the weekends. Not only does Kobey’s have space for roughly 1,000 vendors, they also offer specialty events throughout the year, including car shows, non-profit days and blood drives.
Another biggie is the Spring Valley Swap Meet (6377 Quarry Rd, Spring Valley). One of San Diego’s older swap meets has been around since 1970, with vendors offering everything from antiques, fabrics, household goods, garage sale resales, and an assortment of other treasures. It runs at the same time as the local farmer’s market, so you can pick up fresh produce, flowers, and other edible goodies when you go. It’s open Saturday and Sunday from 7 am to 3 pm with a $1 admission. Go early if you can, because lines form before it opens. Be sure to keep your furry friends at home, however, as this swap meet does not allow dogs.
Further south, the National City Swap Meet (3200 D Ave, National City) has been attracting bargain hunters since 1962. Hunters rave about fabric, fresh fruit, and other goodies. And there’s the added bonus of a taco shop next door. It runs from 7 am to 3 pm on Saturdays and Sundays with a $1.00 admission.
The Santee Swap Meet (10990 Woodside Ave N Santee) features over 200 vendors and has drawn regulars for over 60 years. The Santee Swap Meet occasionally offers live music and food and coffee vendors as an added bonus for shoppers. It’s open from 6 am to 1 pm every Saturday and Sunday for a $2.00 admission. Professional bargain hunters gladly pay $5 for an early 5:05 am admission to beat the crowds.
Other popular swap meets are the South Bay Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet (2170 Coronado Ave, San Diego), featuring a whopping 300 vendors on Wednesdays and weekends, the dog-friendly San Diego Vintage Flea Market (3366 Adams Ave, San Diego), and the quirky, retro Encinitas Bazaar (459 Coast Highway 101, Encinitas).
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]]>The post San Diego Area Shopping Outlets appeared first on San Diego.
]]>One of the most well-known is the Carlsbad Premium Outlets, located in north county just west of The Flower Fields and east of the I-5, near Legoland. You’ll find 90 high-end stores and restaurants offering huge discounts, including well-known favorites such as Kate Spade, St. John, Barney’s New York, Banana Republic, Gap, Stride Rite, Coach, Skechers, Michael Kors, Juicy Couture, Coach, Dooney and Bourke, and Crate and Barrel.
You can also find great bargains for kids at BabyGap, Oshkosh B’gosh, and Stride Rite Keds Sperry. Even if you don’t find anything to your liking, you can still stroll among several top designer brand stores in an outdoor setting beautifully decorated with flowers and plenty of seating.
At the far south end of the county, Las Americas Premium Outlets in San Ysidro near the California-Mexico border is managed by the same company that manages the Carlsbad outlet location. You’ll find an excellent selection of high-end and designer brands such as BCBG Max Azria, COACH, Michael Kors, and Calvin Klein, and factory stores including New Balance, Nike, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, and Brooks Brothers. Jewelry shoppers will be dazzled with perfectly priced diamonds, watches, and necklaces at Swarovski, Daniel’s Jewelers, and Zales.
Because of its proximity to the border, you’ll also find a UETA Duty-Free Store with duty-free cosmetics, wine and spirits, handbags, and other accessories for those who qualify.
Another border outlet destination is Outlets at the Border, also in San Ysidro. It’s worth a stop to shop for bargains at 25 stores, including A’GACI, Armani, Justice, O’Neill, and more.
The Viejas Outlet Mall in the San Diego foothills of Alpine offers bargains at popular stores such as Coach, Nike, Chico, Black and Decker, and others. Viejas is also a family-friendly destination filled with fun things to do, including an arcade, bowling alley, ice skating rink, and mini golf course. Shoppers also head next door for more adult-themed fun at Viejas Casino.
If you’re willing to travel a bit farther, head to the Lake Elsinore Outlet Center, where you’ll find 70 stores, including major retailers like Nike, Levi’s, GAP, Sketchers, and many others.
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]]>The post San Diego Area Malls appeared first on San Diego.
]]>And others come to shop.
One of the best things about San Diego is how many choices you have to indulge yourself if you’re a shopper. San Diego is filled with unique boutiques, small enclaves of one-of-a-kind stores, and commercial districts where you can spend hours strolling, exploring, and hunting for perfect bargains of every kind.
But if you really want to make a day of it, head for shopping at one of the indoor or outdoor shopping meccas at San Diego area malls.
Here are some of the best…
Westfield UTC Mall is an upscale, open-air shopping complex in San Diego’s Golden Triangle, west of La Jolla. Macy’s and Nordstrom are anchors, but recent high-end additions like Tiffany & Co, J.Crew, Jo Malone, and others have upped the ante. This is a gorgeous place to spend a day with several sitting areas amidst lush greenery, water fountains, fire pits, sculptures, and chic furniture. Restaurants such as Tender Greens, Shake Shack, Great Maple, Larsen’s Steakhouse, Din Tai Fung, and Joe and the Juice have created a prime lifestyle destination.
Flower Hill Promenade is another north county mall destination in Del Mar, highlighted by fashion boutiques for men, women, and children. You’ll also find several unique shops, such as the Dallmann Chocolate Boutique, Venissimo Cheese and Wine Bar, Nothing Bundt Cakes, and the Three Dog Bakery, serving oven-baked treats and pastries for your canine buddy.
Fashion Valley in Mission Valley beckons you to lose yourself for hours among 200+ stores that include well-known stalwarts such as Macy’s, Nordstrom, Tiffany & Co., Bloomingdales, and Neiman Marcus. Then add luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, Henri Bendel, and others for an unrivaled San Diego shopping excursion. Amenities include a children’s play area, electric vehicle charging stations, and valet services.
Immediately to the east is the Westfield Mission Valley Mall. Fashion Valley is the more upscale of the two, and Westfield provides a more budget-friendly shopping experience focusing on entertainment, electronics, books, toys, and more to shop and enjoy.
Downtown also has a pair of popular malls. The 14-acre Seaport Village features over 50 specialty shops and galleries. You’ll find interesting handmade soaps, nautical collectibles, jewelry, hot sauces, toys, sportswear, books, hammocks, and more. The target audience is tourists, but it’s an easy walk from downtown hotels and cruise terminals.
Horton Plaza attracts visitors with a colorful five-story outdoor shopping mall and quirky open-air architecture just a stone’s throw from the Gaslamp Quarter. Dozens of major retailers, shops, and restaurants draw downtown workers for shopping, lunch, and dinner.
One of the best family and kid-friendly malls in San Diego is the Grossmont Center Mall, located 20 minutes from downtown. It’s home to Chuck E. Cheese and Smart Kids Time, an indoor child-learning play center. The mall is anchored by Target, Sports Authority, Walmart, and dozens of fashion, shoe, health and beauty, and home goods stores.
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]]>The post San Diego Farmer’s Markets appeared first on San Diego.
]]>One of the best ways to go direct to the source is at more than two dozen weekly Farmer’s Markets. You can find organic, fresh-picked produce seven days a week in all parts of San Diego County. The best part is that Farmer’s Markets are certified by the County Agricultural Commissioner, ensuring that produce sold by the grower is grown in California and meets all California quality standards.
Some markets are only seasonal. Others happen rain or shine. Many are big and elaborate affairs with dozens of vendors, hot food options, ethnic delicacies, baked goods, fresh-cut flowers, artisan bread, seafood, cheeses, freshly squeezed juices, live music, coffees, gift ideas, and more. Others are intimate and geared to local neighborhoods with loyal followers. Do a little digging and find the one that’s right for you.
According to the Farm Bureau, here’s where you can find Farmer’s Markets every day of the week.
Monday
Escondido – Welk Village
Tuesday
Coronado
Escondido
Mira Mesa
Otay Ranch
Pacific Beach
San Marcos
UCSD – La Jolla
Wednesday
Carlsbad
Little Italy
Ocean Beach
Santee
Thursday
Lemon Grove
Linda Vista
North Park
Oceanside
Rancho Bernardo
Scripps Ranch
Friday
Borrego Springs
Imperial Beach
La Mesa
Rancho Bernardo
Saturday
City Heights
Del Mar
Fallbrook
Little Italy
Mission Valley
Poway
Rancho Penasquitos
Vista
Sunday
Chula Vista
Hillcrest
La Jolla
Leucadia
Rancho Santa Fe
Santa Ysabel
Solana Beach
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]]>San Diego is a great destination for incredible shopping and spa services. SanDiego.com has the top San Diego beauty and shopping locations to keep visitors looking their best on a stylish vacation. Whether you are in the market for a hot new swimsuit or hair style, these listings of San Diego beauty and shopping destinations will have the right store or spa for you!
San Diego shopping malls are more than just a string of stores persuading you to buy into the latest trend. They offer a comfortable and safe shopping experience to visitors, as well as a variety of savory San Diego restaurants. Whether you frequent the mall only on occasion or everyday, we all share memories of visiting a shopping center in San Diego.
As a teenager, many may remember flocking to the nearest San Diego shopping mall to hang out with their friends on the weekends. Although at the time, many probably didn’t have much money to shop, hours could be spent browsing different stores and trying on trendy clothes and shoes before stopping for a quick bite to eat in the food court.
During the holiday season, San Diego shopping and outlet malls come alive with jolly tunes, glistening lights, hanging garland, bows and more. With extended holiday hours and special sales, visitors can check off everyone on their holiday list all in one place while shopping in San Diego.
San Diego is home to many great shopping malls, outlets and San Diego beauty spas. Whether you are looking for high fashion boutiques, name-brand stores or great deals, San Diego shopping offers something to fit everyone’s unique style and budget.
Browse through some of the best shopping malls, outlets and spas for a great San Diego shopping vacation.
Best Shopping in San Diego
San Diego Outlet Malls
San Diego Spas
Everyone could use a little rest and relaxation every once in awhile and while you may have your own ways to unwind, here are some of the best San Diego spas.
The post Souvenir Shops appeared first on San Diego.
]]>One of the best things about souvenir shopping in the city is that many shops are at some of the most scenic spots in the area. Watch sailboats float by in the bay as you pick up a pair of socks and a bottle opener from Best of San Diego. Admire the beautiful architecture of Balboa Park after getting a hand-painted souvenir at the Spanish Village Art Center. Get down to Gaslamp Garage for what’s probably the best selection of souvenir San Diego mugs you’ll ever see.
And let’s not forget the beachfront souvenir shops. There are 70 miles of coastline in San Diego County, and it’s peppered with stores that have cultivated unique selections of souvenirs.
A unique aspect of San Diego is its diversity. It’s been called the “City of Villages” because there are so many different neighborhoods that each have its own vibe. In many ways, it’s like many small cities all in one place, and in recent years, the local government has created development plans based on the concept.
Because of the area’s diversity, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a gift souvenir for everyone on your shopping list, no matter their interests. Have fun with it and try to find a special souvenir from each village.
Want to buy a San Diego souvenir but don’t want to look like a tourist? Don’t worry. It’s a city where you’ll see locals sporting a hoodie with ‘San Diego’ across the front. San Diegans are proud of their hometown and aren’t afraid to show it by warming up with a sweatshirt they got in a Mission Beach shop while walking the boardwalk. You’ll also see locals carrying stainless steel water mugs with the city’s name emblazoned.
Essentially, if it’s a functional souvenir like a beverage cup or a piece of clothing you can wear, it’s something you’ll probably see locals purchase.
If you count up all of the concerts, festivals, sporting events, conventions and 5Ks, there are hundreds of special events in San Diego every year. If you plan to attend one, you’ll be able to remember the occasion with a special event souvenir. Some events are so huge you can find souvenirs commemorating them all over the city. ComicCon is a great example. During the event, many venues offer special souvenirs for that year’s event that won’t be around for the next convention.
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]]>The post Kearny Mesa Chevrolet Is the Best Place to Buy a New Silverado in All of San Diego appeared first on San Diego.
]]>In a word, they care. Kearny Mesa Chevrolet representatives take the time to listen to their customers’ needs and match them with the car of their dreams. Unlike other car salespeople who are motivated by sales and quotas, the Kearny team believes that you should drive off the lot with the Silverado that satisfies your desires while still fitting your budget.
These professionals understand that buying a new Silverado for sale in San Diego should be a positive and memorable occasion, and they make every effort to deliver the highest-quality care to their customers. Whether working within spending limits or getting that custom trim you’re craving, the salespeople at Kearny go above and beyond to make your Silverado buying experience pleasant, stress-free, and rewarding.
“I bought a 2026 Chevy Silverado here last week and couldn’t be happier with the process. An exceptional salesperson showed me the truck I was interested in, and when it didn’t meet my needs, he quickly put together some other options that would work for me. There was no haggling over a fair price, and the buying/selling process was very efficient and friendly. They even gave me a fair offer on my trade-in. All in all, a great experience.” ~Kent M. Google Reviews
When you drive off the lot in your new Chevy Silverado, the last thing you should worry about is repairs. At least, that’s what Kearny Mesa wants you to feel, because their dedicated service department handles everything you need to keep rolling down the highway safely and confidently.
They have state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge diagnostics to identify issues and address them efficiently. Their service team is highly trained and qualified to handle any mechanical problems, and they take pride in doing a thorough, professional job on your vehicle. Moreover, Kearny’s service team wants you to stay safe, so they make getting your Silverado in for routine service checks easy, on time, and tension-free.
“Fantastic service rep!! They kept me informed the whole way through our repair. I didn’t even have to ask for a rental; they just set up a reservation as soon as they found out there was a wait for getting parts. We always bring my car here for any service. Thank you again for making this a pleasurable experience!!” ~Grant S. Google Reviews

Known as the “Silverado headquarters” in all of San Diego, you’re bound to find a Silverado that makes you swoon at Kearny Mesa. With a substantial inventory boasting everything from the Chevy Silverado 3500, 2500, and 1500, plus loads of cab styles and trim selections, the mind boggles at their impressive selections. They also offer a full range of Silverado engine options, such as Duramax diesel 3.0L, 2.7L, 5.3L, and 6.2L.
But what if you have your heart set on that unicorn of a Silverado that might not be in Kearny’s current inventory? No worries. Kearny Mesa is closely connected with other Chevy dealerships, and can find you that sweet ride you’ve been aching to show off at your next car cruise or road trip.
“Really nice working with the team on my new Silverado purchase. Great communication throughout and a fair price. They were really patient and helpful in the process. The purchase was smooth and quick. Really happy with my experience and new vehicle!” Tony N. Google Reviews
Credit problems and tight budgets don’t have to hold you back from buying a new Silverado in San Diego. The team at Kearny Mesa works with low credit scores, and their finance department is adept at negotiating price points so you can get into your perfect pickup without stressing about money. Kearny understands that the financial aspect of buying a new pickup isn’t everybody’s favorite part of the process. So, their finance experts make investing in your new vehicle as painless as possible.
Not only does Kearny offer competitive financing rates, but it can also accommodate various budgets with used-vehicle or lease options. Moreover, Kearny offers significant military discounts to active-duty members and veterans (as well as spouses of retirees). They also have a Costco Auto Program that offers members exclusive incentives. Discounts, specials, and incentives are available regularly, and in some cases, they can be combined so you can make that new Silverado pickup a reality, regardless of your credit score.
“I encountered credit challenges due to my past illness, which resulted in rejections from other dealerships. However, Kearney Mesa Chevrolet went above and beyond to assist me in purchasing my new 2026 car. I am deeply grateful to these two exceptional individuals for their outstanding service.” ~Massa G. Google Reviews

Address: Kearny Mesa Chevrolet is located at 7978 Balboa Ave, San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: (858) 866-9927
Hours: Mon – Sat 9:00 am – 8:00 pm & Sunday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
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]]>The post BMW of El Cajon Is the Best Place to Buy a New BMW X3 appeared first on San Diego.
]]>Located at 720 El Cajon Blvd, El Cajon, CA 92020 (conveniently accessible from I-8), the knowledgeable team at BMW of El Cajon is the longest-standing BMW dealership in San Diego, and they’ve been making their customers happy for over 40 years. As a veteran in the car industry, this dealership boasts leadership that understands what its customers want when purchasing new BMW vehicles.
Each of El Cajon’s representatives is highly trained to make your buying experience stress-free and positively remarkable. From exhaustive knowledge about their vehicles to no-hassle financing, this dealership is second to none. Additionally, BMW of El Cajon has a dedicated service department that can help with any service needs you may have. Not to mention their inventory, which is sensational, from the new BMW X3 for sale to M Performance Models, color combos, and equipment combinations, El Cajon can get you into a new BMW that suits your needs and matches your personal style.
“I’ve worked in the car industry for several years. Yet it is rare for me to have such a positive experience when purchasing a vehicle. Their pricing is more than fair, and they are willing to work with their customers’ individual budgets and needs. I helped a close friend buy a new BMW today, and I cannot recommend BMW of El Cajon highly enough. Honest and knowledgeable salespeople who know their products.” ~Andrew B. Google Reviews
As the team at BMW of El Cajon will tell you, the new X3 has undergone a few impressive upgrades. For instance, the interior features enhanced materials with fine dashboard stitching, luxurious Veganza seating, and slick silver door handles.
The exterior of a new BMW X3 is still as bold and breathtaking as previous years, but the newly added illuminated kidney-shaped front grill and 21-inch alloy wheels really level up this new car.
But what about performance? The pros at El Cajon were pretty stoked about the new 2.0L turbo 4-cylinder, which gives drivers a bit more acceleration than older models. And with 400 Nm torque, the new BMW X3 has pulling power that you can really feel when you hit the gas.
Additionally, the 48V mild-hybrid system offers a polished ride, a power boost you can feel, smooth stop-starts, and improved fuel efficiency. If you don’t believe us, just test drive a new BMW X3 at BMW of El Cajon today.
“I spent at least a year researching cars, and a new BMW X3 was at the top of my list. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The sales team made the entire experience exciting, enjoyable, and easy. I highly recommend purchasing from BMW of El Cajon!” ~Stephanie M. Google Reviews
If you’re making comparisons with other size models and classes, you won’t find the new BMW X3 at BMW of El Cajon lacking. For example, the new BMW X5 for sale carries some extra weight in terms of size, and to some drivers, it may feel a little excessive for everyday driving, and potentially harder to maneuver. That’s where the new X3 is a masterful machine, delivering nimble driving performance and hybrid-assisted efficiency in a slimmer, sleeker design.
What about the new BMW X7 for sale at BMW of El Cajon? It’s a good option, but when compared to the new X3, there are trade-offs. For instance, the X7 has a much larger footprint and can feel clunky for routine driving, like parking at the farmers market or picking up the kids from school. There’s also the lower fuel economy to consider with the X7 consuming around 21/25 MPG versus the X3’s hybrid efficiency touting around 27/33 MPG.
In short, if you want a responsive ride that handles brilliantly for your next road trip while also meeting your real-world life needs, take a look at the new X3 at BMW of El Cajon. It promises spectacular performance, great efficiency, practical enhancements, and a smart balance between maneuverability and design compared to other classes.
“Purchased my first *new* car at BMW of El Cajon. They were amazing to work with. Answered all of my questions without hesitation and was extremely knowledgeable. If you are considering getting a new car, you must come here!” ~Evelyn G. Google Reviews
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]]>The post Pacific Honda Is the Best Place to Buy a New Honda in All of San Diego appeared first on San Diego.
]]>We’re talking about Pacific Honda in San Diego. There are a slew of reasons this dealership has popped up on our radar as a standout choice for anyone looking for quality customer service, great deals, and an amazing selection of autos. Here are our top six considerations that make Pacific Honda the best place to buy a new Honda in San Diego.
Most people in the market for a new vehicle know what they want, but that isn’t always the case. Thanks to the wide variety of models available at Pacific Honda, you have every option to browse and consider. From the newest electric vehicles and hybrids to hard-to-find SUVs, crossovers, pickups, and hatchbacks, this dealership’s inventory is pretty sensational. Oh, and if you don’t see what you like online, in the lot, or on the showroom floor, just ask one of Pacific Honda’s sales reps, and they’ll do their best to find it for you.
“Super helpful with showing us all the different cars once we knew what we liked. Thumbs up! This is what a car buying experience should be… Helping to choose a car that fits the buyer’s needs and allowing buyers to see the cars rather than showing only what the dealership wants you to buy.” ~Casey F. Google Reviews
If you’ve ever sat in a dealership for hours wading through minutiae and signing paperwork until your hand cramps, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised with Pacific Honda’s efficiency. They have every phase of car buying down to a well-timed science, making your purchase experience fast, easy, and seamless.
“The negotiating process was very clean and simple, and when we picked up the car, we were in and out in an hour and 15 minutes.” ~Robert S. Google Reviews
Pacific Honda believes in forging strong relationships with their customers, and that’s clearly evident in their customer service. From non-pushy salespeople to a responsive service department and friendly follow-up calls to ensure customer satisfaction, this dealership knows the value of superior customer care.
“From the moment I walked in, they listened to exactly what I needed and helped me get into the perfect car without any pressure or hassle. I truly appreciated Pacific Honda’s honesty, communication, and dedication to making this purchase easy for me.” ~Jessica G. Google Reviews
There’s nothing worse than buying a car and getting gut-punched by subpar service afterwards. You don’t have to worry about that with Pacific Honda. They have a state-of-the-art service facility with thoroughly trained technicians to ensure your vehicle is maintained and safe on the road long after you take it off the lot.
“Very thorough! I took my 2015 Honda in for servicing. Everything was explained to me: what I needed, the cost, and how long it would take. Extremely satisfied with results and will use Pacific Honda again!” ~Janelle W. Google Reviews
Another aspect of this dealership that impressed us was their flexibility with all types of budgets. From lease options and special financing to less expensive certified pre-owned vehicles and rebates, and veteran discounts, Pacific Honda gives its customers ample opportunities to get into the car of their dreams without crushing their budgets.
“Financing was less than 2 hours! We talked to the sales rep prior to going in and identified the model and price we wanted to pay for. They met our terms, no hard sell for unneeded items. Paperwork was efficient and ready to go!” ~Stephen B. Google Reviews
Serving the community since 1984 is quite a feat these days, especially in the car sales business. Pacific Honda prides itself on its 5-star customer reviews and has worked hard to earn the trust of San Diegans for excellent service and customer care.
“We’re a fourth-time customer at Pacific Honda. The reason is that we are treated like family every time.” ~Carlos M. Google Reviews
Whether you’re looking for a sweet Civic hatchback to show off on your next epic road trip or need an Odyssey minivan for your growing family, Pacific Honda is the best place to buy a new car in San Diego. You’ll find excellent selections, quality service, and you’re going to love how this dealership makes getting behind the wheel of your dreams fast, stress-free, and super-easy.
Pacific Honda is located at 4761 Convoy Street in San Diego, CA 92111
Phone: 858-694-1000
Hours: Mon – Fri 8:30 am – 9:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am – 8:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
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