Plenty to See and Do in the Great Outdoors
One of the top things that University City is known for is Rose Canyon Open Space Park. This canyon is vast and filled with native flora and fauna. It is also home to almost 100 species of birds, some of which are on the endangered species list.
It is the ideal place for birdwatching and hiking. You can check out all those birds near the vernal pools on the east end of the canyon. For hiking, you’ll find challenging terrain and plenty of trails to keep you busy.
Another stop while in this area is Marian Bear Memorial Park. This man-made park was a way for the city to hold onto its natural beauty as development began to wipe out many of the green spaces.
You cannot miss San Clemente Canyon. This canyon is fun for all ages because it has many fossils in its walls, which adds to the allure, especially for children.
There is a winding creek that runs through the canyon and is responsible for helping to widen and deepen it as the years go by. There is a lot of history found in this canyon that has been a focal point in the area for centuries.
Great Shopping & Food at UTC Mall
The newly renovated Westfield UTC Mall is one of the best shopping malls in San Diego. It is known for both its shops and its restaurants and it even has a luxury movie theater.
There are also several public golf courses in the area if you want more structured outdoor time. Many of them are child-friendly, making this a perfect activity for the whole family.
The University City Executive Golf Course features nine holes. Just a few miles south Balboa Park Golf Course also has eighteen holes, and is more challenging. This is in Balboa Park and is the oldest public course in the area. While hitting some balls, you can take in the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
No visit to Southern California is complete with checking out some beaches, and there are plenty in and around University City. Windansea Beach in nearby La Jolla is perfect for surfing or just sunbathing. If you want a clean beach with plenty to do, stop by Pacific Beach. It has a boardwalk filled with dining options and shops, but it isn’t incredibly crowded, so it is enjoyable day or night.
For something more scenic, try La Jolla Cove. Here you can enjoy watching seagulls and sea lions. You can also partake in swimming, diving and snorkeling. Stop by Ellen Browning Scripps Park, which has green huts where you can hang out and enjoy the sunset.
Sunny Jim Sea Cave and Shell Beach, which is best at low tide when you can explore the tide pools, give you a chance to explore. Don’t miss The Children’s Pool. This is the hang out for sea lions. You may not be able to get too close, though, as the beach closes during pupping season, but you should still have great views of the animals playing and swimming.