San Diego

Took an overnight trip to Chula Vista/Imperial Beach in San Diego and decided to stay at the Pier South Resort. Since the pandemic, I haven't traveled and this is my first hotel stay since the stay at home order. San Diego is not known for its concern about the pandemic and it was apparent that most people didn't seem concerned enough to wear masks despite the state mandate.

I have never been this far south in San Diego and Imperial Beach is a cute area with a small strip of restaurants, bars, and novelty stores within five minutes of the hotel. Unfortunately, the water has been deemed unsafe for the last eight months due to shared waters with Mexico. Despite the water issue, the beach looked welcoming and the people in the ocean didn't seem to care about the water cleanliness. It was funny to hear the lifeguards warn folks that the water was unclean and that any water rescue would result in a fine.

Pier South Resort Balcony view

Luckily, the hotel has a pool so I was able to splash a little bit. It isn't a large pool so it was only good to be in for a little bit before moving on. I was given a lovely oceanfront room and the balcony was lovely to sit and watch the sunset.

Imperial Beach

Dining

Sea180 Coastal Tavern - hotel restaurant with fantastic views of the beach and good food. I ate for happy hour, breakfast, and lunch at the hotel. Given the short stay, it was easier to just stay close to the hotel. The prime rib and cheese "grilled cheese" sandwich was really tasty, highly recommend.

Doggos Gus - hole in the wall hot dog place offering bacon wrapped hot dogs and elote, it hits the craving salty food spot if you're craving it. I tried to order over the phone and pick up but it was faster to walk across the street from the hotel and order. They are not great with picking up the phone and multi tasking.

BabyCakes - It was on my list of places to check out in Yelp but I didn't find the cupcakes that compelling. I don't know if it is because the cupcakes were cold and would have tasted better warmer. It was next to the hotel and readily accessible. 

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