Take Some Time to Yourself and Explore These 9 Quiet Places
Solo dates are like creative currency—the more time you take to reflect on life and allow yourself space to dream, the more the juices will continue to flow. Whether you’re strolling through the open spaces of the Museum of Contemporary Art or you’re treating yourself to coffee at Grange Garden, a sweet treat at Mutual Friend Ice Cream and a literature reading at The Book Catapult, you’re sure to walk away refreshed and inspired. Take yourself out for a solo day you’ll never forget as you enjoy “me, myself and I” time at one of our favorite San Diego spots below.
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art
Throw on your Joseph Gordon-Levitt headphones (“500 Days of Summer,” anyone?) and take yourself on a quiet, contemplative date to the Museum of Contemporary Art. This sprawling, light-filled space provides a perfect backdrop to upwards of 4,700 pieces of work within the painting, sculpture, paper art, photography, video and installation genres from the 1950s to today. The clean architecture offers ample negative space to appreciate what’s before you, while sunny, beachfront views perfectly complement the indoor eye candy. Find something that inspires you or simply take the time to reflect on the beauty of your own life.
Location: La Jolla
Stroll Around the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum
Embrace Japanese culture and learn about the beautiful relationship between the United States and Japan when you step foot in the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum. Intertwined with the story of a serendipitous friendship that was formed between a US Naval crew and a Japanese orphan girl in 1951, these gardens are rich in history. Let your eyes soak in the sights of whimsical cherry trees and luscious green plants while the sounds of trickling fountains sing to your ears. You’re sure to channel some much-needed peace as you meander through the plants and artifacts of this calming space.
Location: Balboa Park
Lunch at Elixir de la Lune
Eclectically decorated, Elixir de la Lune is the perfect lunch spot for your next solo day in San Diego. With four walls that are bursting with whimsy, it almost feels like you’re walking into the fairy-tale version of the North Pole. Treat yourself to a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich, a pesto chickpea wrap or a simple bowl of seasonal soup. And don’t forget to snag one of their delightful elixirs, meant to do such things as calm you, boost your focus and more. Eat in peace knowing that Elixir uses only organic ingredients and non-refined sugar to nourish your body and excite your taste buds.
Location: Bird Rock
Explore Grange Garden
What better way to continue your day than with coffee and bunnies? Find everything from a comforting vanilla chai latte (The Harvester) to a classic cappuccino at this sweet little space where you can pamper your taste buds while petting a few new furry friends. Grange Garden also offers delectable treats—think cinnamon rolls, quiches and more. If you thought caffeine was a good pick-me-up, just wait until you get the extra shot of happiness these bunnies will bring!
Location: Solana Beach
Browse at The Book Catapult
Nose-dive into waves of pages and imaginary worlds set between book covers. The Book Catapult is a locally owned shop for all you readers—even offering community gatherings like book clubs, open mics and literature readings. When you visit this quaint haven, you’ll certainly feel the family-like vibe (you can even read from staff members’ favorite current books!). Grab yourself a cup of coffee on your way over, pop in your AirPods and spend the day perusing.
Location: South Park
Snag a Scoop at Mutual Friend Ice Cream
If you’re looking for quality craft ice cream, then make a pitstop at Mutual Friend Ice Cream. This shop offers unique flavors like spumoni, guava sorbet and strawberry balsamic. Even serving up vegan and gluten-free options, Mutual Friend packs a punch that will make for the perfect pick-me-up. Get ready to brighten the skies of your solo day when you experience the vibrant hues and overall feeling of happiness in this shop where “ice cream is your friend.”
Location: South Park
Sound Bath at Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara
Treat yourself to a solo self-care day at Miraval Life in Balance Spa in Carlsbad, San Diego. Step into this plant-filled space and instantly feel your muscles relax—then take it to the next level when you introduce singing bowls for a sound bath. Let the reverberations fill your ear drums and resonate with the beating of your heart. All the while, you’re welcome to meditate, practice mindfulness or simply be…whatever suits your style. Set some intentions for this date with yourself, and walk away feeling ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
Location: Carlsbad
Sunset at Torrey Pines Preserve
Meet yourself for a sunset date at Torrey Pines Preserve. Awaiting you are 1,500 acres of land that have been preserved since before San Diego was developed, speckled with rare Torrey pines, a lagoon and miles of beautiful beaches. Get your heart pumping as you travel the trails and look over the cliffs for an epic ocean view, sighting seabirds along the way. The preserve does not allow food, but feel free to bring some hydration along for the hike and then pack your supplies for a sunset picnic at the beach.
Location: Torrey Pines
Solo Dinner + Tarot Card Reading at The Seventh House
Romance yourself when you visit The Seventh House for dinner with a side of mysticism. A high-end, French-inspired ambience will treat your eyes even before you take a taste of the menu, which is excellent as well. Indulge in squid ink linguine, salmon or summer truffle mushroom risotto—and choose from craft cocktails, beer or wine to sip on as you savor this experience. Perhaps you’ll even glean some interesting ideas from a private Tarot card reading as you enjoy your evening.
Location: North Park
