San Diego is known for its more than 70 miles of beautiful coastline, but during May Gray and June Gloom, when the changing temperatures bring the marine layer inland to cover the coast, it can definitely put a damper on beachside activities. Never fear! Here are our top picks for the best patios and outdoor areas that are not at the beach. This way, while all the beach goers are feeling gray and trying to stay warm, you can just travel inland to where the marine layer breaks and the San Diego sun is still shining strong.
1. Spitz – Hillcrest
This Hillcrest Mediterranean restaurant/bar is known for its delicious food, fun atmosphere and killer patio. Come here for some sun, handmade sangria or their extensive craft beer list, but make sure you try one of their famous doner wraps or an order of their hangover fries. With plenty of shade and spacious layout, this patio is a sure bet on any San Diego day.
3515 5th Ave
San Diego, CA
Dog/Kid Friendly? Yes
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This spot in Old Town is one of the most entertaining places to hang out for an afternoon, anywhere in San Diego. 22 craft beers on tap, house-smoked BBQ and other eats, craft cocktails and an outdoor patio filled with games. Bring your friends and challenge them to a game of ping pong, beer pong, corn hold, giant Jenga, darts, foosball and more. Don’t want to break a sweat? They have tons of board games to keep you busy too! They recently renovated their outdoor space making it bigger and better so stop by and check them out soon.
2222 San Diego Ave
San Diego, CA
Dog/Kid Friendly? Yes
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This is one of the newer ones on our list, but they have already made quite an impact on the Hillcrest food and beer scene. Not only do they have an excellent craft beer list, but they actually hold the distinction of housing the most San Diego breweries on tap in one place. Their large patio sits off of the front of the restaurant making it the perfect spot to people-watch while you enjoy the off-the-beach sun!
3683 5th Ave
San Diego, CA
Dog/Kid Friendly? Yes
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The Station in South Park is known for being a local family hot-spot. This is because they have a designated (and gated) play area where little ones can rumble while their parents enjoy craft beer, craft cocktails and delicious burgers. The menu is small but they do it up right. Make sure you order some of their garlic parmesan tots and if you aren’t into the kiddos, don’t worry, little ones usually clear out around 8 pm.
2204 Fern St
San Diego, CA
Kid/Dog Friendly? Yes!
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If the Station is heaven for kids, then the Quartyard is doggie Mecca. They have an actual dog park located right off from the main dining/entertainment area where you can bring your drinks in and sip away while your dog plays. S&M Sausage and Meat serves up delicious hand-crafted sausages and more and the bar area has an extensive craft beer list alongside refreshing craft cocktails. They have a full event calendar with concerts happening multiple times a week, food truck nights and a Thursday night market that features local vendors and music.
1102 Market St
San Diego, CA
Dog/Kid Friendly? Yes
Anna Brigham
6/10/16
