An Alfresco Affair to Remember

Make summer in San Diego extra special with these memorable outdoor experiences.

By Sarah Daoust

FINE FRENCH DINING under the stars? Watching a cheetah run at top speed as the sun rises? Cozying up at the beach for your own private movie screening? Floating over Rancho Santa Fe’s backcountry while sipping bubbly? If you’re ready to make some memories and maximize the beauty and tranquility of San Diego’s great outdoors this summer, read on. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite alfresco activities.

Permanent Patio Pivot Perfection.

Don’t get us wrong; indoor dining (which recently reopened complete with a new bar menu) at Jeune et Jolie is fabulous, too. The Bells + Whistles-designed interior of this new-wave French bistro by owner John Resnick transports guests straight to Paris. But its former parking lot, which just underwent a second, sizable remodel—is 1,850 square feet of pure outdoor dining bliss. Relax under the stars, olive trees and high-strung, twinkling lights—amid a European inspired canvas. New patio enhancements include builtin heaters; in-ground speakers; Italy-imported terracotta tiling; terrazzo-covered dining tables; concrete banquettes topped with plush pillows; and a vintage, freestanding fireplace. Pair all this eye candy with culinary decadence in the form of executive chef Eric Bost’s four-course dinner menu. Patrons can make their own selections for each course ($75 per person); along with add-ons such as wine pairings and raw seafood platters. The menu changes often, but recent dishes have included Saint Jacques (aka scallops) with asparagus, ramps and bone marrow; and A5 Japanese wagyu with cherries, oxtail and Bordelaise sauce. Oui, oui!

2659 State St., Carlsbad, 760.637.5266

Dreamy Mission Bay views can by yours with Seaside Cinema

Animal Attraction, Safari-Style

Go on a thrilling African safari … without leaving San Diego County. Home to 3,500- plus animals spanning 300 species, the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park is open and offering several one-of-a-kind safari experiences. Our pick: the Sun-Up Cheetah Safari. The private, two-hour tour includes an early-morning stroll through the park (before gates open to visitors!), from the entrance to Shiley’s Cheetah Run. Guests will be introduced to various wildlife; get a rare opportunity to see a cheetah run at top speed; and enjoy brunch at The Watering Hole at Kijamii Overlook—boasting the best views in the park. Advance reservations are required.

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, 619.231.1515

Seaside Cinema setup

Movie Night at the Beach

Enjoy a fun and romantic summer date night with your toes in the sand, thanks to Seaside Cinema. The local company creates intimate film-watching adventures on the beach and does all the work for you; simply choose your experience. For example, the Classic Cinema package includes setup and breakdown of a movie projector and 100-inch viewing screen; plus blankets, cushioned stadium-style seats, a small table and movie treats. As for what to watch, that’s up to you; just download your own viewing content on your phone or tablet prior to arrival.

seasidecinemasd.com

Sea Life Up Close

Home to 6,000 ocean animals and 60 aquarium habitats, Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a true wonderland for those intrigued by life under the sea. Birch showcases the groundbreaking research of Scripps Oceanography and UC San Diego scientists; as well as conservation breeding programs, family-friendly exhibits, sea-life-inspired art and more. The campus recently was enhanced with new animals, activities and outdoor exhibits; plus one-way pathways for safety. Peruse indoor exhibits (at controlled capacity), such as Seadragons & Seahorses and the 70,000-gallon Giant Kelp Forest— home to moray eels, leopard sharks and an endangered Giant Black Sea Bass. Outside, get a chance to actually touch small sharks, rays, urchins and more at Preuss Tide Pool Plaza; visit Shark Shores; and take a selfie with a giant (inflatable) octopus. Oh, and the dramatic ocean views from the aquarium’s perch on the bluff are pretty spectacular. Advance reservations are required.

2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, 858.534.3474

Light a Fire

Nestled in the Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, the five-star Fairmont Grand Del Mar has opened its outdoor Fireside Lounge behind Amaya restaurant. The sprawling lawn feels like its own little magical world— featuring well-spaced seating, private fire pits (perfect for toasting marshmallows), personal cabanas, craft libations, an extensive wine list, small plates and live music. Menu musts include the hanger-steak tartare with egg-yolk emulsion; the s’mores kit (for two); and the whiskeybased Almond Emery cocktail with homemade orgeat and orange bitters. Added bonus: Canine guests are welcome.

5300 Grand Del Mar Court, Del Mar, 858.314.1988

Up, Up and Away!

Soar over San Diego at sunset in a hot-air balloon with Compass Balloons. Its private and semi-private tours take you up and over the beachfront and coastal canyons of Del Mar, and the rolling hills and luxury real estate of Rancho Santa Fe. You’re also likely to catch glimpses of Torrey Pines Golf Course and Palomar Mountain in the distance. Each tour lasts three hours and 30 minutes and includes Champagne, cheese, fruit, soda and water. The magical views and memories made are priceless.

1969 Villa Cardiff Drive, Cardiff, 760.704.7407