Danielle Negroni
Licensed Realtor
Coastal Premier Properties

North County San Diego Summer Camps

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Summer is here and for many families, that means finding ways to keep your kids entertained while they’re out of school! Check out my list of some of the best summer camps in North County San Diego that will help keep your kids happy and active until school starts again in the fall:

Del Mar Sol Surf Camp

Have your kids been begging you to learn to surf? Enroll them in Sol Surf Camp this summer in Del Mar! All levels of surfers are welcome, but campers must be six or older. Your children will improve their surf skills, grow more confident in the water, and learn about the ocean while having fun with other kids their age! For more information about the camp, click here: http://www.delmarsurfschool.com/surfcamp.html

San Diego Danceworks Summer Camps

San Diego Danceworks offers dance camps for kids four and up in Clairemont. The full day and half day camps allow dancers to experience a range of styles and improve their skills while having fun. They also offer an intensive ballet camp, choreography, and musical theatre camps. For more information on how to register, click here: http://www.sddanceworks.com

Encinitas Beach Kids Camp

Encinitas Beach Kids is a half-day, two-week program that is perfect for SoCal kids! The Beach Kids Camp, located at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, teaches kids about beach awareness, safety, marine animals, water etiquette, teamwork, and more. This camp is best for children ages 6-8. For more information about the Encinitas Beach Kids program, click here: http://encinitasbeachkids.com

Del Mar Junior Lifeguards Sessions

The Del Mar Junior Lifeguards program emphasizes physical fitness, lifeguarding skills, teamwork, environmental awareness, sportsmanship, and more! There are two and four week programs for kids aged nine to seventeen. Basic swimming abilities are required, but otherwise the program is open to all. There is also a more intense lifeguarding academy for teenagers fourteen to eighteen who may want to get hired as a lifeguard in the future. Click here for camp dates and more information on the lifeguarding requirements: https://secure.delmarjg.com/guards

Encinitas Lux Art Institute Summer Camps

Is your child more into art than the outdoors? Lux Art Institute in Encinitas might be the perfect match! The Lux Art Institute has a full-day, week-long camp for students age 4- 17. The camp hosts arts and crafts projects based on different art eras each week. Campers will also learn about art history and get to explore different mediums of art throughout the program! Click here for more information about the Lux Art Institute’s Summer Camp: http://www.luxartinstitute.org

San Diego County Technology Adventure Camp

The Technology Adventure Camp is a great opportunity for students to continue their education over summer break. Students will learn about innovative technology trends while building core fundamental skills in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. This camp is open to children ages 7-13, with individualized programs for each age group. These camps are offered at a number of locations across San Diego County including Carmel Valley/Del Mar, Carlsbad, 4S Ranch, and more. Click here for more information and to find a camp near you: https://www.techadventurecamp.com

Escondido Little Explorers Museum Summer Camp

The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum in Escondido will host weeklong camps this summer. The Little Explorers Summer Camp is great for kids in Kindergarten to 3rdgrade. Weekly camp themes include space, coding and engineering, art, and more. Click here for more information: http://sdcdm.org/programs/camps

Carlsbad House of Air Active Summer Camps

House of Air is an action-packed camp located in Carlsbad. Campers will get to go rock climbing, play dodge ball, slack line, and more. Choose from morning, afternoon, or all day camp sessions. House of Air is also hosting a cheer camp this summer. For more information on their camps, click here: https://houseofair.com/carlsbad/

Carmel Valley Rec Center Summer Camps

The Carmel Valley Rec Center is offering a number of summer camps and programs for kids and teens this summer. From dance to yoga to gymnastics and karate, there’s something for every child. Click here to view the summer schedule of activities and pricing: https://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/carmelvalley.pdf

IFLY Oceanside Summer Flight Academy

The IFLY Summer Flight Academy is an awesome summer experience for kids age 4-16 years old. IFLY is offering two 5-day camps this summer in Oceanside that will allow your kids to experience the thrill of indoor skydiving. Click here for more information about the camp experience and details on how to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ifly-oceanside-summer-flight-academy-2-sessions-tickets-60228740785

Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch Summer Camp

The Leo Carrillo Historic Ranch sits on twenty-seven beautiful acres that are filled with adobe buildings, gorgeous landscapes, and even peacocks! But during summer, The Ranch transforms into a camp for kids ages 5- 12 years old. Camp activities include art, cooking, sewing, animal encounters, and even archaeology. Click here for more information: 

http://www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/parks/facilities/south/carrillo/default.asp

Carlsbad IceTown Summer Camps

Looking for a unique, fun way for your kids to get their exercise while also improving their coordination and balance? IceTown, located in Carlsbad, is offering summer hockey and ice-skating camps. The programs are designed for beginners, so no experience is necessary! For more information about IceTown’s summer camps, click here: https://www.icetowncarlsbad.com

There are dozens of summer camps happening across San Diego County this summer. Which camps will your kids be attending? Leave me a comment below! 

Why Now is a Great Time to Buy a Home in San Diego

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If you’ve been waiting for a sign that now is a great time to buy a home in San Diego, this is it! We are currently experiencing the Real Estate Trifecta of perfect home-buying conditions: increasing inventory, homes spending more days on the market, and low interest rates. But how does this Real Estate Trifecta really affect you as a prospective home buyer? 

Increasing Inventory

If you’re in the market to buy a home, increasing inventory is a very good thing especially if you’re looking to buy in one of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods. Unlike years past where too many buyers competed for too few homes, buyers today have a lot more properties to pick from. While some homes still receive multiple offers, overall there is less competition. This is particularly true over the past few weeks with the recent surge of listings.

Longer Days on Market

Across the county, homes are taking 6% longer to sell than they were a year ago. While that increase might not seem like much, homes now spend an average of 35 days on the market – too long for some sellers. In an effort to get their home into escrow, many sellers resort to lowering their asking price. This is good news for you! Not only will you potentially pay less for your home, the sellers may be willing to further negotiate with you to get the property under contract. 

Low Interest Rates

While the Federal Reserve initially planned to raise interest rates over the course of this year, at its March meeting the Fed announced that short-term interest rates will instead remain unchanged for the remainder of 2019. Again, this is good news for you! As of writing, the average 30-year fixed rate is hovering just above 4.0% – still historically low. And the lower the interest rate, the more home you can afford to buy. 

While I can safely say that the Real Estate Trifecta will make this spring and summer an amazing time to buy, it’s anybody’s guess what the future will hold beyond this time. So don’t wait – call me at (858) 735-5767 to get started today!

New Communities in North County San Diego

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Whether you’re a San Diego native or you’ve only been in San Diego a few years, it’s easy to see that we’re a growing city. There are lots of new home developments popping up even in older, more established parts of the county. If you’re in the market for a new home in North County San Diego, check out the list below to see some of my favorite new home developments from Carlsbad to Carmel Valley! If you’d like to go see any homes, just give me a call at (858) 735-5767! Remember, it’s always a good idea to have your own agent even if you’re buying new construction – it’s my job to advocate for you and make sure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Carlsbad: Cypress at the Preserve

  • Price: $817,990- $857,990
  • 2,286- 2,521 Square Ft.
  • 3-4 Bedrooms
  • 2-3 Bathrooms
  • 2-Car Garages

Cypress at the Preserve is a community of two-story or three-story single family detached homes. Offering up to 2,521 square feet of living space, choose from several different three or four bedroom floor plans. While most homes come with generous backyards for outdoor entertaining, the three-story homes will also feature a generous rooftop terrace on the third level. Many home sites offer fantastic views across the Buena Vista Valley and Buena Vista Creek Ecological Reserve. As for amenities, residents of Cypress will also enjoy the nearby recreation facility with fitness equipment, beach-entry pool, playground, BBQ area, and an outdoor fireplace.

Carlsbad: Acacia at The Preserve 

  • Price: $662,990- $741,990
  • 1,934- 2,011 Square Ft.
  • Up to 4 Bedrooms
  • 2.5 Bathrooms
  • 2 Car Garage

Acacia is an offering of forty-eight paired homes ranging in size from 1,934 – 2,011 square feet. Choose from Coastal Tuscan, Santa Barbara, or California Craftsman exterior styles. Residents of Acacia will have access to the community’s abundant amenities, which include a fitness center, community pool, and spa. With over half of The Preserve’s 156 acres dedicated to open space, residents will also have plenty of nearby trails to use and explore.

Carlsbad: Seascape

  • Price: $1,499,950
  • 1,628- 3,140 Square Ft.
  • 3-5 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • 2-Car Garages

Seascape is a community of luxury single-family detached homes in beautiful Carlsbad! With three to five bedroom floor plans available for both single- and two-story designs, this is a great community for residents of all ages. Some home sites also offer a detached casita for multi-generational living. Seascape is centrally located within Carlsbad and is close to nearby playgrounds, shopping, dining, and the beach!

Carmel Valley: Palomar at Pacific Highlands Ranch

  • Price: $1,934,995- $2,244,995
  • 4,542- 6,104 Square Ft.
  • 4-5 Bedrooms
  • 4-5 Bathrooms
  • 3 or 4-Car Garages

Palomar at Pacific Highlands Ranch is one new home community you to have to see to believe! The homes are breathtaking and the average lot size is 10,000 square feet! One of the newest luxury communities in Carmel Valley, these single-family view homes by Toll Brothers range in size from 4,500-6,000 square feet and feature top-of-the-line features. Palomar is a gated community nestled inside a great school district and is convenient to shopping, dining, and beaches.

Del Sur: Avanté

  • Price: $698,900- $773,000
  • 1,544- 1,787 Square Ft.
  • 2-3 Bedrooms
  • 2-3 Bathrooms
  • 2-Car Garages

Avanté is a 55+ community located in the very heart of Del Sur. This brand-new gated community offers both one and two story floor plans with the option to add great features for aging in place like in-home elevators. This luxurious community is a great choice for active adults who want to spend less time on home maintenance and more time enjoying life in San Diego!

Encinitas: Alcove

  • Price: $1,195,000- $1,275,000
  • 2,330- 2,940 Square Ft.
  • 3-4 Bedrooms
  • 2-4 Bathrooms
  • 2-Car Garages

Built by Shea Homes, Alcove is the newest addition to the Encinitas Community. Comprising just thirteen homes, Alcove offers single and two-story plans with your choice of sophisticated architectural styles. Close to all the best of Encinitas living, these homes will surely go quick!

Encinitas: Enclave

  • Price: $1,714,900- $2,092,900
  • 4,410- 5,068 Square Ft.
  • 5-6 Bedrooms
  • 4-5 Bathrooms
  • 2 and 3-Car Garages

A gorgeous community of luxury homes in Encinitas, Encinitas Enclave is nearly sold out! Located just miles to the ocean, these homes represent the best in beach living. With floor plans offering buyers up to 5,101 square feet of living space, this is one community you’ll want to put on your must-see list!

If you’re in the market for a new home, spring is a great time to be looking in San Diego whether you want to buy new construction or an existing home. If you have any questions or would like to know more about any properties you see here, please give me a call. I would be happy to help you find your new dream home!

San Diego’s Most Anticipated Restaurants of 2019

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Lots of new restaurants are ready to open their doors in San Diego in 2019! Here are all the new restaurants opening across the county this year:

Animae, Downtown

In the spring, the Puffer Malarkey Collective will open this upscale Asian-inspired restaurant on the ground floor of Bosa’s new luxury condominium tower Pacific Gate. The menu will be contemporary Asian-American featuring the cuisines of Japan, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, with options including raw seafood, coal-roasted Kobe beef and exotic proteins. 888 W. E St., San Diego. animaesd.com

 

Blade 1936, Oceanside

Local Italian restaurateurs Mario Cassineri (Bice San Diego) and John Carlo Ferraiuolo (Caffè Calabria) will open this modern Italian restaurant in the first quarter of 2019. The name comes from its historic 1936 building, built by architect Irving Gill for the former newspaper The Blade-Tribune. Chef de cuisine Chris Narvaez will oversee a menu of Neapolitan-style pizzas, fresh pastas, desserts and mix of Italian and local beers and wines. 401 Seagaze Drive, Oceanside. blade1936.com

 

The Bungalow, Westfield UTC

Two powerhouse restaurant companies, Bungalow Hospitality Group and Michael Mina’s the MINA Group, have teamed up to open The Bungalow La Jolla in late 2019/early 2020. The freestanding, indoor/outdoor 10,000-square-foot restaurant will serve a Mina-directed menu of small and large shared plates and specialty cocktails. It joins locations in Santa Monica and Huntington Beach. 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla. thebungalow.com

 

Casero Taqueria, Carlsbad

Craig Applegate and Clayton Wheeler will open this scratch-made modern Mexican restaurant in the soon-to-open The Square at Bressi Ranch center in April or May. The menu will feature housemade corn and flour tortillas for wrapping its gourmet carne asada, line-caught fish and carnitas tacos. The shop will also offer a take-home market. 2674 Gateway Road, Suite 195, Carlsbad. caserotacos.com

 

Ciao Plaza Restaurant, Vista

The 20-year-old north Vista restaurant is building a massive 10,000-square-foot expansion at its current location, with plans for completion in mid-2019. The 300-seat location is in the midst of adding a bakery, deli, gelateria, enoteca and large banquet hall. 2015 E. Vista Way, Vista. (760) 630-7333. ciao2.com

 

Draft Republic Brewing Co., La Mesa

San Diego’s Cohn Restaurant Group is getting back into the beer-making business in fall 2019 with the opening of this 12,000-square-foot, 15-barrel brewery that will also feature an outdoor 13,000-square-foot, fast-casual “eatertainment” event space with food service, a beer garden, a high-end miniature golf course, shuffleboard and bocce courts and children’s play yard. 9160 Fletcher Parkway, La Mesa. cohnrestaurants.com

 

Eggies, Pacific Beach and East Village

Rise & Shine Restaurant Group will open two locations in 2019 of this new fast-casual/grab-and-go concept that will open next door to the company’s existing Breakfast Republic restaurants. The menu will include breakfast sandwiches, egg-centric entrees served in Mason jars, coffees and cajeta-stuffed churros. The first will open in the spring at the Pacific Beach location at 4465 Mission Blvd. Still to come: 707 G St., East Village. eggies.com

 

Feast & Fareway, Coronado

The longstanding restaurant at the Coronado Golf Course will be replaced in April by this new eatery created by Johan Engman of the Rise & Shine Restaurant Group, John Rudolph of Harry’s Coffee Shop and Tom Penn of Real Restaurant Solutions. It will serve breakfast, lunch, dinner and grab-and-go options as well as offer catering services. 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado. golfcoronado.com/feast-and-fareway

 

Fort Oak, Mission Hills

Trust Restaurant Group co-founders Steve Schwob and chef Brad Wise will open this new restaurant/bar in January. The restaurant, which will anchor the mixed-use The Fort complex, will specialize in seasonal small plates spotlighting the chef’s wood-fired cooking techniques. The restaurant will feature a 16-seat chef’s counter. 1011 Fort Stockton Drive, San Diego. fortoaksd.com

 

Gravity Heights, Sorrento Valley

Whisknladle Hospitality, Alesmith co-founder Skip Virgilio and brewer Ryan Trim are collaborating on this large project that will combine a 7,000-square-foot restaurant and tasting room and 5,000-square-foot beer garden. It is set to open in January. 9920 Pacific Heights Blvd., San Diego. gravityheights.com

 

Hold Fast Temaki Bar, Liberty Station

Carlsbad restaurateur and sushi chef Rob Ruiz will open this quick-service seafood stand inside the Liberty Public Market in February. It will only serve locally caught seafood to support San Diego’s commercial fishing fleet. The menu will feature bite-size, portable sushi handrolls as well as gourmet yakitori bites. There will also be several vegan options. landandwaterco.com

 

Herb & Sea, Encinitas

A summer opening is planned for the Puffer Malarkey Collective’s expansion of its successful Herb & Wood Little Italy concept to North County. The 6,500-square-foot restaurant will open inside a 1920s-era art deco building that is being restored with a New England lighthouse-inspired theme. The menu will be seafood-focused with a custom oyster and raw bar, as well as a mix of wood-fired proteins, pastas, pizzas and desserts. 131 D St., Encinitas. herbandsea.com

 

Himmelberg’s, East Village

The Patio Group is revamping its now-shuttered Harvest by the Patio restaurant in East Village. It will reopen in February as a rock ’n’ roll surf-style fast-casual restaurant/bar. It will serve a sustainably sourced menu and Himmel Brew beer. Both the restaurant and beer are dedicated to owner Gina Champion-Cain’s late friend Joey Himmelberg, who died in 2016. 369 Tenth Ave., San Diego. (619) 541-8301. americannationalinvestments.com/divisions/the-patio-group/

 

Huntress, Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego’s RMD Group aims to open this “sophisticated steakhouse and whisky society” venue in the former Grand Pacific Hotel building in the spring. The two-story restaurant will have an in-house dry-aging program for its beef and one of the largest selections of Japanese whisky in Southern California. Executive chef will be James Montejano. 376 Fifth Ave., downtown. rmdgroupsd.com/huntress/

 

International Smoke, Carmel Valley

One of the most high-profile projects slated for North County’s One Paseo project, this restaurant is the shared vision of Michelin-starred San Francisco chef Michael Mina and Food Network star Ayesha Curry. A modern steakhouse, International Smoke will explore global approaches to cooking with fire, grilling and smoke. The local restaurant, the third for the San Francisco-based company, will open in the spring. 3387 Del Mar Heights Road, Suite 0100, San Diego. internationalsmoke.com

 

Kairoa Brewing Co., University Heights

Kairoa Brewing Co. will open a two-story brewpub in January on a prime corner location in University Heights. An ownership team of New Zealand expats are creating a lineup of beers using imported New Zealand hops and dishes inspired by the cuisine of both New Zealand and the U.S. The venue will offer a second-story rooftop patio. 4601 Park Blvd., San Diego. kairoa.com

 

Louisiana Purchase, North Park

Grind & Prosper Hospitality will open this New Orleans-inspired courtyard restaurant and Southern cocktail bar in January. A recent graduate of the Culinary Institute of New Orleans, chef Quinnton Austin will introduce a menu featuring alligator cheesecake with crawfish cream sauce, Andouille-fried red beans and rice with chipotle mousse and Southern-style BBQ shrimp. 2305 University Ave., San Diego. louisianapurchasesd.com

 

Medina Moroccan Baja Kitchen, North Park

Chef/owner Alia Jaziri credits her North African and Chinese/Indonesian heritage and her passion for Baja cuisine for the eclectic Mediterranean/Mexican menu at this new fast-casual restaurant and wine bar opening in February. It will offer lunch and dinner service and brunch service will be added in the spring or summer. 2850 El Cajon Blvd., Suite 4, San Diego.

 

The Morning After, Gaslamp Quarter

Nightclub impresario Jamie Johnson will open this unique dual-use bistro/bar in January, serving breakfast, brunch and lunch by day and serving as a sports bar by night. Featured daytime dishes will include Fruity Pebbles pancakes and red velvet waffle with cream cheese icing and bar offerings will include chicken and waffles, sliders, buffalo wings and more. 531 F St., Downtown. themorningaftersd.com

 

Morning Glory, Little Italy

CH Projects, the company behind the ultra-fancy steakhouse Born & Raised, is taking breakfast upscale with this glamorous, cocktail-forward brunch spot opening near Little Italy’s Piazza della Famiglia in late January. The menu will include caviar, smoked fish dishes, daytime cocktails and a coffee and pastry bar. 550 Date St., San Diego. consortiumholdings.com

 

My Yard Live, San Marcos

In mid-2019, the city-owned restaurant that long ago housed a Home Town Buffet will become a sustainable, family- and dog-friendly community gathering spot and brewpub that will offer food, beer, leisure games, fundraising events and live entertainment. Partners on the project are longtime business partners Jamie Minotti and Mark McLarry, SweetWater Brewing co-founder Freddy Bensch and George McKerrow, co-founder of Longhorn Steakhouse and Ted’s Montana Grill. Pat Korn will lead the brewing program. The 17,500-square-foot indoor/outdoor project will break ground in mid-January. 288 Rancheros Road, San Marcos. myyardlive.com

 

Oculto 477, Old Town San Diego

A hidden speakeasy will open in late February inside the recently opened Tahona mezcal tasting bar in Old Town. The candlelit, 25-seat space is designed to honor the spirits of the 477 early San Diegans buried in the El Campo Santo Cemetery next door. Its Old Town-inspired cocktails, like the Whaley House Punch, will celebrate agave spirits. 2414 San Diego Ave., San Diego. tahonabar.com

 

The Outpost Urban Food Hall, Poway

In fall 2019, North County’s 3LB Restaurant Group will open a two-story 21,000-square-foot food hall in Poway’s mixed-use The Outpost development. The creator of Urge gastropubs, Mason Ale Works and other hospitality properties will oversee the leasing of 14 vendor stalls and will operate some of their own concepts at the 171-seat property. 13247 Poway Road, Poway. 3localbrothers.com

 

Pan y Sal, Barrio Logan

The historic Bread & Salt venue will soon become home to this food hall featuring vendors from South Bay and Northern Baja California. The centerpiece is a 120-seat-square-foot bakery and cooking school run by Via International’s Elisa Sabatini and Natal Hospitality. There are plans for pop-up demonstrations by regional chefs and more. 1955 Julian Ave., San Diego. breadandsaltsandiego.com

 

Park Commons, Sorrento Mesa

Whisknladle Hospitality is taking over the former San Diego Tech Center building to create a 10,000-square-foot food hall and event space. Chef Ryan Johnston will oversee the multi-concept food stations that will serve salads, Middle Eastern wraps, street tacos, poke, sandwiches and coffee, plus an evening bar. A summer opening is projected. The Park, 9645 Scranton Road, Sorrento Valley. whisknladle.com

 

The Plot, Oceanside

Oceanside husband-and-wife restaurateurs Davin and Jessica Waite (Wrench & Rodent Seabasstropub/The Whet Noodle) are teaming with Carlsbad’s Christopher Logan of Creative Flavors Catering to open this entirely plant-based, zero-waste restaurant. The Plot, focused on locally sourced and seasonal produce, will offer quick-casual breakfast and lunch and full-service dinner. The first will open in summer 2019 with plans for more around the county if the concept is a success. theplotrestaurant.com

 

Sisters Pizza, Bankers Hill

Emily Green will open an East Coast-style pizzeria this spring in a former beauty salon space in Bankers Hill. It’s named for her late sister, Kate, who died in 2016. Chef Alex Carballo (former chef/owner of URBN Coal Fired Pizza) is helping Green develop the menu, which will include pastas, salads, sandwiches and more. 3603 Fourth Ave., Bankers Hill. (858) 228-6822, sisterspizzasd.com

 

Social Syndicate unnamed project, Del Mar

San Diego’s Social Syndicate hospitality group will open an as-yet unnamed “social dining” indoor/outdoor restaurant in Del Mar Plaza shopping center in late 2019. Social Syndicate’s other projects include Wonderland Ocean Pub, The Local and OB Surf Lodge. Mall owner Brixton Capital said the new restaurant, which will be located on the center’s top floor, will be hip and casual but but with an upscale aesthetic. socialsyndicate.com

 

Storyhouse Spirits, East Village

Co-founders Matt Kidd and Steve Kuftinec will open this two-story urban distillery and restaurant in January. The 7,600-square-foot project will house a distillery and production facility and a full-service bar, tasting room and lounge. Chef Nick Paulerio’s menu will feature seasonal plates, mostly cooked in a copper wood-fired oven. 1220 J St., San Diego. storyhousespirits.com

 

Travis Swikard restaurant project, location TBA

Daniel Boulud protégé Travis Swikard recently left his job as executive chef at Boulud Sud in New York City to return to his hometown of San Diego and open his own restaurant serving “Cal-Med” (California Mediterranean) cuisine. The restaurant, which is receiving some investment and mentoring assistance from David and Lesley Cohn and Deborah Scott, will open in an as-yet-undetermined location in fall 2019. travisswikard.com

 

Ways & Means Oyster House, La Jolla and Carmel Valley

Orange County’s award-winning seafood bar chain will open its first two San Diego County locations in the first quarter of 2019. With locations in Huntington Beach and Portland, Ways & Means is known for its fresh seafood sourcing program that includes its own house brand oysters. It’s known for a menu with prices starting at $4 and nightly seafood specials. The first is set to open in February in the former Alfonso’s space at 1251 Prospect St. in La Jolla. In March, the second location will open at the One Paseo project at 3720 Caminito Court, San Diego. wmoysters.com

 

Wild ‘N Out Sports Bar and Arcade & iLov305, Gaslamp Quarter

Two new entertainment venues will open in the spring inside the new Theatre Box movie and entertainment complex. Comedian/actor Nick Cannon will open Wild ‘N Out, which will feature a monthly DJ appearance by Cannon and other celebrity guests. Also at Theatre Box, rapper Pitbull will open his Miami-inspired rooftop lounge and bar serving tropical drinks and craft cocktails. 701 Fifth Ave., Downtown. theatrebox.com

 

Windmill Food Hall, Carlsbad

Due to construction delays, restaurant visionary James Markham has pushed back to January the opening of his 12,000-square-foot food hall inside Carlsbad’s iconic windmill building. Once finished, the hall will have a 52-seat indoor/outdoor bar and 11 vendor booths, including Bing Haus rolled ice cream; Bread and Cheese grilled sandwiches; Cross Street Chicken & Beer; Lobster West; Taco Lady; Thai-Style Chicken; a Korean hot pot spot; and a Belgian waffle and fries shop and more. 890 Palomar Airport Road, Carlsbad. facebook.com/windmillfoodhall/

 

Zinqué, Little Italy

This L.A.-based restaurant and wine bar, with locations in Venice, West Hollywood and Newport Beach, expands into San Diego County next year with a Little Italy location. Zinqué serves European-inspired menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner, including tartines, ratatouille, paninis and soups. 2155 Kettner Blvd., San Diego. lezinque.com

 

(Article originally appeared in the San Diego Union Tribune)

San Diego Health and Fitness Guide 2019

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Do your New Year’s resolutions include losing weight, getting fit, or simply spending more time outside? Luckily, San Diego offers tons of outdoor activities that will get you off the couch and help you work up a sweat. To inspire you, I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite ways to stay active in North County San Diego!

Kayak or Snorkel in La Jolla

Kayaking is a great way to get outside and enjoy San Diego! There are seven caves you can kayak through in La Jolla. And if you’d rather get in the water, La Jolla Underwater Park is a great place to go snorkeling. There are lots of fish, leopard sharks, and other sea creatures living in and around the cove.

 

Hike Torrey Pines 

Torrey Pines offers two different hikes that both offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. You can choose to hike The Razor Point trail (1.3 miles) or the Guy Fleming Trail (0.7). You can also just choose to walk the length of the beach if you’re in the mood for a beach stroll. This is a great hike to do with your out-of-town visitors because of the stunning ocean views!

 

Surf Encinitas

Are you into surfing? Some of the best surfing in San Diego can be found in Encinitas at Swami’s, Moonlight, Beacons, or Grandview breaks. Enjoy the waves and then make your way into the heart of Encinitas for a tasty, healthy treat at Swami’s or Lotus Café.

 

Bike the Carlsbad Coastal Rail Trail

Part of a plan to connect 44 miles of trail along the coast from Oceanside to downtown San Diego, the 0.7 mile coastal rail trail segment in Carlsbad is a great option for walking or biking with your family. The wide, flat path runs parallel to the train tracks, but is fully fenced which makes it the ideal place for young children to learn to bike. Leashed dogs are also allowed on this trail.

 

Explore the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve

The San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve is a 979-acre reserve that offers visitors seven miles of hiking trails to explore. Most of the trails are moderately strenuous except for Annie’s Canyon Trail, which is more difficult than the other trails in the reserve. As you exercise, you’ll enjoy views of the lagoon, marsh, and ocean.

 

Stand Up Paddle Board in Oceanside Harbor

If you’re been wanting to give up Stand Up Paddle Boarding a try, Oceanside Harbor is the perfect spot for beginners. The water is normally calm and if you start early enough, you might not encounter many boats entering or leaving the harbor. SUP is a great workout and you can’t beat the views of the ocean, pier, and local wildlife!

 

Adventure at Lake Hodges

While most people know that you can boat and fish on Lake Hodges, you can also hike, bike, or horseback ride along the 65 miles of dirt trails! The North Shore and the Del Dios Gorge paths are part of the longer Coast to Crest trail which will encompass 70 miles from Del Mar to Volcan Mountain in Julian when complete.

 

Visit Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

Blue Sky is another fantastic ecological reserve in North County San Diego. Encompassing 700 acres, there’s plenty to see and explore inside the reserve. I wrote about the hikes inside the reserve on my blog about great San Diego hikes, but this is a wonderful place to go hiking, biking, or walking with friends or family. If you want a really tough workout, you can take the turnoff from the Green Valley Truck Trail for Mt Woodson!

 

Hike Iron Mountain 

Located just east of Poway, Iron Mountain is a challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views over San Diego County from the top! About 6 miles round-trip, the hike is tough enough for athletes to work up a sweat, but not so difficult that casual hikers can’t enjoy it. Just make sure to bring enough water as this hike can get hot! On your way back, stop for a coffee at Poway’s hidden gem, King’s Craft Coffee.

 

Bonus:

Bike the Bayshore Bikeway in San Diego

Willing to travel south for something a little more challenging? The Bayshore Bikeway is a 24-mile trail that takes you from the Coronado Ferry Landing to Imperial Beach and back to Downtown San Diego. This path also offers beautiful views as you pass by Hotel Del Coronado, Silver Strand State Beach, and the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge.

 

We truly live in one of the most beautiful cities in the country – it’s a shame not to take advantage of all San Diego has to offer! Yes, you can buy a gym membership to melt away the holiday pounds, but with so much to see and do, consider saving your money and opting outside!

San Diego Give Back Guide 2018

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As we head into Thanksgiving ready to reflect on all we have to be grateful for, I’ve put together a guide to help you give back to those who are not so fortunate in the local San Diego community. In light of the recent fires in California, I’ve also included ways you can help victims of the Camp, Woolsey, and Hill fires. In the coming weeks, I hope you’ll donate or plan some time to give back to others in San Diego and beyond.

 

 

Giving Back to Victims of the Camp, Woolsey, and Hill Fires

 

North Valley Community Foundation Evacuation Relief Fund

This fund is to support the operations of organizations that are sheltering evacuees from the Camp Fire.

Click Here to Give

 

United Way of Northern California

Those who lost their homes in the Camp Fire can get emergency cash assistance from the United Way of Northern California to help replace urgent basic necessities.

Click Here to Give

 

Ventura County Community Foundation

The Ventura County Community Foundation has set up a fund to collect donations to cover urgent needs for the victims of the Hill and Woolsey Fires.

Click Here to Give

 

Humane Society of Ventura County

The Humane Society of Ventura County needs donations to continue to house and feed the evacuated animals it has taken in from the fires.

Click Here to Give

 

Giving Back in North County San Diego

 

Boys and Girls Club of San Dieguito

The Boys and Girls Clubs of San Diego serve more than 24,000 San Diego kids annually. They help inspire disadvantaged kids to achieve academic success, make healthy choices, and grow up to become responsible adults.

Click Here to Learn More

 

Casa de Amparo

Since 1978, Casa de Amparo has been working to treat and prevent child abuse in San Diego County. They work with foster children as they age out of the system and help facilitate their transition into adulthood.

Click Here to Learn More

 

Helen Woodward Animal Center

HWAC is very active in finding homes for displaced animals due to fires.

Located in Rancho Santa Fe, HWAC has been operating its no-kill facility for 40 years. They place adoptable dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens in homes and also operation a therapeutic riding school and various animal education programs.

Click Here to Learn More

 

Solutions for Change

The mission of Solutions for Change is to help end homelessness through programs that permanently transform lives and communities.

Click Here to Learn More

 

 

Giving Back in the City of San Diego

 

ElderHelp

ElderHelp is a non-profit that works to help seniors remain independent and stay in their own homes through its unique services.

Click Here to Learn More

 

Father Joe’s Villages

Father Joe’s Villages is San Diego’s largest homeless services provider. They prepare up to 3,000 meals and provide care for almost 1,800 individuals in San Diego each day. They help babies, children, adults, veterans, and seniors.

Click Here to Learn More

 

Make-a-Wish San Diego

Make the holidays a little brighter for children with critical illnesses by helping a child’s wish come true!

Click Here to Learn More

 

Meals on Wheels San Diego

This is a great service that provides meals to seniors in need across San Diego.

Click Here to Learn More

 

San Diego Humane Society

The San Diego Humane Society is one of the largest non-profit animal welfare organizations in the region. They care for up to 50,000 animals over the course of a year. They are a no-kill shelter and also help injured and orphaned wild animals with the goal to return them to the wild.

Click Here to Learn More

 

United Way of San Diego County

The United Way of San Diego is working to help San Diego families and children grow stronger together.

Click Here to Learn More

Best Brunch Spots in San Diego 2018 North County Guide

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Is there a better way to kick off a great weekend in San Diego than with a fantastic brunch?

After a Saturday morning hot yoga class or surf sesh, there’s nothing better than a delicious brunch with friends or family. There are so many great brunch spots in San Diego so it can be hard to choose where to eat! Below are some of my favorite brunch places in North County San Diego – I hope you give them a try and maybe find a new favorite on this list!

 

Claire’s on Cedros

246 N. Cedros Ave

Solana Beach, CA

Located in the heart of Solana Beach, Claire’s specializes in homemade California-style comfort food and fresh bread and pastries! They serve breakfast and lunch every day and dinner on Friday and Saturday. You can’t go wrong if you order the Clairecakes, any of the eggs benedicts, or the French toast. And despite billing itself as “Solana Beach’s Best Kept Secret” the word is definitely out about this place as you almost always have to wait for brunch on the weekends. But it’s well worth the wait!

 

 

 

Better Buzz Coffee in Encinitas

578 S. Coast Hwy 101

Encinitas, CA

If you’ve lived in San Diego for any length of time, I’m sure you’ve been to Better Buzz at some point or another. But while they are known for their delicious coffee, did you know their food menu is just as amazing? At the Encinitas location they serve a variety of grilled sandwiches, two varieties of avocado toast, acai bowls, pastries, and more! This is one of my go-to spots for a quick breakfast and coffee!

 

 

 

Beach Break Café

1802 S Coast Hwy

Oceanside, CA

This café has been in business since 1988 and is still locally owned and operated to this day! The décor is surf-inspired and feels like a true Californian institution. Beach Break Café serves breakfast and lunch all day, every day from 7-2pm. They offer all your favorite breakfast dishes and some California specialties like breakfast burritos and huevos rancheros. They don’t take reservations so come early or be prepared to wait a bit.

 

 

 

Pacifica Breeze Café

1555 Camino Del Mar Ste 209

Del Mar, CA

Fancy brunch with an ocean view? Pacific Breeze Café is located just down the stairs from Pacific Del Mar in the Del Mar Village, making it the perfect stop after surfing or a visit to dog beach. The patio seating overlooks the village and offers gorgeous views of the Pacific Ocean. They have an extensive menu, but the sugar spiced salmon hash, Del Mar power breakfast, and breakfast burrito shouldn’t be missed!

 

 

L’Auberge Del Mar

1540 Camino Del Mar

Del Mar, CA

If you feel like treating yourself, the Coastline at L’Auberge Del Mar is the way to do it! This upscale restaurant at the L’Auberge Hotel serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Not only is the menu amazing, but you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean while you dine.

 

 

Café Topes

3091 Roosevelt

Carlsbad, CA

Café Topes is a delicious little spot located in Carlsbad. They have a full breakfast and lunch menu, as well as fresh baked cinnamon rolls that are to die for! Be sure to allow time to wait for a table as it can get busy on the weekends!

 

Naked Café

106 S. Sierra Ave

Solana Beach, CA

This is one of my favorite brunch spots in North County, San Diego! The menu is large, but simple. They offer all your breakfast and lunch favorites, but with a healthy twist. Some of the best items on the menu are the coconut French toast, the Yin & Yang, and the Calexxxican.

 

 

I hope you enjoyed this list of all my favorite brunch spots in North County San Diego. Let me know what your go-to San Diego brunch spots are in the comment below – I’m always looking for a new place to try!

The 2018 Guide to North County San Diego Pumpkin Patches

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A visit to the pumpkin patch is a great way to get the whole family into the fall spirit! While our weather might not be very fall-like, you can still embrace the season by grabbing a PSL from Starbucks and planning a visit to one of North County San Diego’s many pumpkin patches:  

 

Del Mar Pumpkin Station 

Where: 1555 Jimmy Durante Blvd. Del Mar, CA 92014 

When: September 28th– October 31st 

Hours: Sun- Thurs 9 am- 7 pm | Fri & Sat 9 am- 9 pm 

 

The Pumpkin Station is so much more than a pumpkin patch! The Pumpkin Station features an antique carousel, petting zoo, giant slides, train rides, and so much more. Take the whole family for a full day of fun in the sun! 

  

 

Carlsbad Strawberry Fields Pumpkin Patch 

Where: 1050 Cannon Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92008 

When: Mid September- October 

Hours: 9 am- 4:30 pm everyday 

 

If you’ve never been to the Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, make this year your first (and definitely not your last) trip! This field sits just off the 5 freeway in Carlsbad, for easy access. Depending on the weather you can also pick your own strawberries! 

 

  

Tom’s Adventures Pumpkin Patch 

Where: 105 S. Rancho Santa Fe Rd Encinitas, CA 92024 

When: Mid September- October 

Hours: Mon- Thurs: 11 am- 8 pm | Fri 11 am – 9 pm | Sat 9 am- 9 pm | Sun 9 am- 8 pm 

 

Tom’s Adventures Pumpkin Patch is a great place to bring the whole family! Besides Encinitas, they also have locations in Mira Mesa, Vista, and San Marcos. Each pumpkin patch offers different attractions, but you’re sure to find something for everyone (including the perfect pumpkin!)  

 

 

Bates Nut Farm 

Where: 15953 Woods Valley Road Valley Center, CA 

When: September 22nd– October 31st 

Hours: Mon- Fri 9 am- 5 pm | Sat & Sun 8:30 am- 6 pm 

 

This historic farm in North County San Diego has been open since the 1920s! There are many events hosted here throughout the year, but their fall activities take center stage. Besides the pumpkin patch there is a straw maze, pony rides, face painting, hayrides, petting zoo, local food vendors, and more. Make a day out of it and head out to Bates Nut Farm in beautiful Valley Center! 

 

 

Lavender Hill Pumpkins 

Where: 1509 E Mission Rd Fallbrook, CA 

When: Opens September 28th 

Hours: Fri 2 pm- 5pm | Sat & Sun 10 am- 5 pm 

 

The Lavender Hill Pumpkin Patch has over 10,000 pumpkins for you to choose from! All the pumpkins are organically grown and watered with the farm’s own well water. Also, if you visit their website, it’s obvious these people really love their pumpkins – some even have names! So come to Lavender Hill, pick out a pumpkin (with or without a name), and enjoy a warm weekend day in Fallbrook. 

 

  

Mr. Jack ‘O Lantern’s Pumpkins 

Where: 6710 La Jolla Blvd. San Diego, CA 

When: Open October 1st 

Hours: Mon- Thurs 11 am- 8 pm | Fri- Sun 11 am- 9 pm 

 

Mr. Jack ‘O Lanterns Pumpkins is conveniently located in La Jolla and offers plenty of family friendly activities like pumpkin bowling, a spooky maze, photo station, and more! 

 

 

 

Do you have a favorite pumpkin patch in San Diego? Let me know in the comments below!

San Diego Real Estate Market Report: Summer 2018

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Earlier this year, I published a blog speculating on whether home prices in San Diego County were about to peak. If you missed the blog, you can check it out here. As we head into fall, there are warning signs that home prices in San Diego have now indeed peaked. Homes are staying on the market for longer, many don’t receive multiple offers, and many sellers are forced to reduce their price in order to get the home under contract.

While prices in many cities have statistically increased in 2018, moving forward, it’s unlikely the steady growth on the graphs below will continue.

So what does that mean for you as a San Diego County homeowner? It means that if you’ve been waiting to sell your home, now may be the time to prepare for a sale. It’s anticipated that our inventory will reflect a Buyer’s market by 2020 and this leaves one more strong selling season before prices reflect such a change. If you want to maximize the sales price of your home, call me at (858) 735-5767 to get started!

 

 

San Diego County

In San Diego County the median sales price for a detached single family home is up 7.1% from August 2017, making the median price now $637,000. The median price for townhomes and condos has also increased by 7% from last year, making the median sales price $417,250.

 

Carmel Valley

Carmel Valley has seen significant increase in the median sales price of homes over the last year as well. The median price for a detached single family home is now $1,315,525. This increase is up 7.8% from August 2017. Townhomes and condos are now selling for an average price of $615,500, an increase of 4.3% in the last 12 months.

 

Del Mar

The median sales price for a home in Del Mar is $2,000,000. This is a 7.5% increase from August 2017! A condo or townhome in Del Mar now sells for an average price of $1,080,000. This is up 4.9% from the previous year.

 

La Jolla

La Jolla has also seen an increase in home prices since this time last year. The price of a detached home has increased by 5.9%, making the median sales price $2,150,000. Townhome and condo prices have also gone up 4.8% since August 2017, bringing the median sales price to $712,750.

 

Solana Beach

Home prices in the city of Solana Beach are up 3.9% from last year, making the median price for a detached single family home now $1,535,000. But townhome and condo prices in Solana Beach have really skyrocketed! The median price for a condo has increased 13.5% since August 2017, making the average sales price $952,500.

 

[All data sourced from Sandicor MLS on September 13th, 2018]

5 Great San Diego Hikes

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With cooler fall weather on the way, now is the perfect time to try out a new hiking spot in San Diego! We have so many great trails to choose from, but these five include some of my personal favorites that I’ve done with my family and friends:

Torrey Pines State Reserve

(La Jolla)

 

Does it get more San Diego than hiking by the beach? But unlike other beach “hikes”, the trails at Torrey Pines are actually challenging and you will definitely work up a sweat. While spending time in the reserve, you’ll be treated to views of the ocean, maritime chaparral, and the rare Torrey Pine.

The most popular trail in the reserve is the Beach Trail, which offers beach access via a flight of stairs. Once on the sand, you can climb in and around the rocks to explore tide pools filled with living sea creatures.

For an easier hike, the Guy Fleming Trail and Razor Point Trail meander through the coastal vegetation near the top of the cliffs and offer great scenic views.

 

Mt. Woodson

(Poway)

 

Mt. Woodson is more commonly known as Potato Chip Rock – named for the peculiar rock formation that sits at the top of the mountain.

Most people access the trail from the Lake Poway side. If you go on a weekend or holiday and you are not a resident of Poway, you will need to pay to park in the lot. The trail itself is an out and back trail that is 6.9 miles round trip. It is long, strenuous, and rugged so make sure you are dressed appropriately and bring plenty of water!

There’s usually a line at the top to take pictures on Potato Chip Rock so go early or be prepared to wait. Getting on and off the rock can also be a bit difficult and is not recommended if you are afraid of heights.

For a shorter hike to Potato Chip Rock, you can also access Mt Woodson from Highway 67 going toward Ramona.

 

 

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve

(Poway)

 

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve is also located in Poway. Situated north of Lake Poway, it offers access to the Mt Woodson trail and also to Lake Ramona.

This is another out and back trail that only has one access point from Espola Road. You will start on the Green Valley Truck Trail, which takes you all the way out to a sign for the Ramona Dam. If you turn left at the sign for the dam and go up the hill towards Lake Ramona, the entire route will be 4.8 miles round trip.

Along the Green Valley Truck Trail you will also have the option to turnoff for the Mt Woodson trail. Going this way adds about another mile onto the Mt Woodson hike.

Finally, there is a third small trail called the Creekside Trail that branches off near the trailhead and parallels the Green Valley Truck Trail. If you take this route, know that it is off-limits to dogs and horses.

 

 

Mission Trails Regional Park

(San Carlos)

 

Mission Trails Regional Park offers visitors more than sixty miles of trails to explore. They also the host the 5-Peak Challenge which encourages hikers to climb to the summits of Cowles Mountain, Pyles Peak, Kwaay Paay, South Fortuna, and North Fortuna.

The most famous of all the trails in the Mission Trails system is Cowles Mountain, which offers stunning 360-degree views of the city, mountains, Lake Murray, and the ocean from the peak. This trail is normally very busy so come early to find parking. Or for a fun change of pace, bring a flashlight and hike to the peak under a full moon!

 

 

Double Peak

(San Marcos)

 

If you live further north, Double Peak in San Marcos offers a nice challenging hike with breathtaking views from the park at the summit! Round trip, you will cover more than 4.5 miles from the parking at Discovery Lake.

This is more of a residential hike as it brings you along the back of some of the neighborhoods in San Marcos, but it is still a real trail that offers a great workout and it’s not that crowded. There’s no shade on this hike though, so start early and bring plenty of water!

 

Which hike in San Diego County is your favorite? Leave me a comment below!

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