Best of San Diego Summer Continues...

Indulge in Frozen Treats

Slater's 50/50

“Research” may not be a word that kids on summer break like to hear, but if the assignment is to find the best spots around the county for ice cream, shaved snow and other frozen treats, it has a better ring to it, don’t you think? Some of our favorite go-to spots include Handel’s, Holy Paleta and Bobboi, but don’t take our word for it—have some fun doing research and drawing your own conclusions. Access our whole list of Frozen Treats to Beat the Heat at www.sandiegofamily.com/ things-to-do/out-about/ice-cream-shops.

Catch an Outdoor Flick

There are so many fun outdoor movie options around town! The South Bay and Santee Drive-In theaters are a thrill for kids and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for parents. Rooftop Cinema Club (pictured) offers comfortable seating and incredible views from the roof of the Manchester Grand Hyatt downtown. And of course, free Summer Movies in the Park (through the end of October) are offered weekly around the county. See the schedule at www.summermoviesinthepark.com.

Embrace the Spirit of Aloha

Sunset Luaus on the Bay at the Catamaran Resort are back! After a two-year hiatus, visitors and locals are once again able to indulge in an evening of Polynesian delights—an all-you-caneat buffet, music and authentic dance performances right on Mission Bay. Tuesdays and Fridays through Sept. 2. www.catamaranresort.com/sunset-luaus

Get Wet

San Diego beaches are the most popular spot to get wet, but don’t forget about all our local splash pads and spraygrounds this summer. The year-round splash pad at Santee Lakes (shown here) is a favorite, as it has many fun water features, including a bucket that fills and dumps on the kids’ heads. Plus, Santee Lakes is such an awesome destination!

Playgrounds, duck feeding, fishing, pedal boats and 190 acres to explore. Need we say more? Find our full list of splash pads and spraygrounds at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/ out-about/parks-withwater-splash-pads-sandiego.

Think Outside. No Box Required.

Plan a picnic, go hiking, watch the sunset, spend the day at the beach and take a walk along the bay. Take advantage of these lazy days of summer and do it all. The physical and mental health benefits of being outdoors in the fresh air and sunshine are extensive. So, get outside!

Visit a Theme Park

The San Diego Zoo’s new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

(downtown) is all the rage for families! Kids love to explore the interactive, educational play space. In Escondido, celebrate the San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s 50 th anniversary with close-up wildlife experiences in (or over) expansive savanna habitats.

Be a Happy Camper

Campers (and glampers) rejoice! Those who don’t want to drive any further than Chula Vista, have two great local options:

San Diego Metro KOA is a hidden gem, offering a variety of Camping Cabins, Glamping Tents (no bathroom) and Deluxe Cabins (full bathroom with shower) that sleep up to six people, in addition to RV and tent sites. Resort amenities include tons of family fun, including a playground, jumping pillows, pool, climbing wall, on-site café and a full-time activities director.

Sun Outdoors Resort San Diego Bay offers comfortable furnished cottages with front and back patios (each with its own gas barbecue and firepit), an on-site café and bar, playground, pool and splash pad, pickleball court and activities for families. You really never have to leave the property. But if you do, consider visiting the Living Coast Discovery Center right next door.

Play Ball! (or watch)

Catch a ball game this summer— and don’t miss KidsFest when the Padres have a Sunday home game (remaining dates: Aug. 21, Sept. 11, Oct. 2). Arrive up to two hours before game time for bounce houses, face painting, balloon artists and more kidfriendly fun. Learn more at www.mlb.com/padres/tickets/ specials/kidsfest.

Uncover a Hidden Gem

Take a family “daycation” at one of San Diego’s favorite resort destinations. ResortPass offers single-day access to local pools, spas, cabanas and more at dozens of hotels and resorts across the county. Prices and amenities vary by location. www.resortpass.com/hotelday-passes/San-Diego-3

Access our entire list of fun hidden gems at www.sandiegofamily.com/thingsto-do/out-about/hidden-spots-insan-diego-for-families

Lisa Gipson is the managing editor of San Diego Family. You’ll often find her “researching” the area’s frozen treat shops with editorial assistant, Adrienne Sigeti.

August 2022 • SanDiegofamily.com • 23