We stayed for six days in the Zen. Rick was very timely throughout every communication, and was a fantastic host. This is an incredible historic home, with every detail has been considered in providing the utmost comfort for your stay. The views are breathtaking as you enjoy a meal or wine in front of the large picture window. This location can't be beat--it is in the heart of the Bankers Hill area, walking distance to everything! And if you choose to drive around San Diego, you will ALWAYS find a parking spot in front of the Zen when you return any time of the day or night.
Thanks to Rick and the Zen--we could fit all of these activities into our 6 days in San Diego. We were always well rested, and traveling was a breeze due to the accommodations and location of the Zen!
Activity Suggestions Close to the Zen:
This home is a 1/2 mile (5 minute) walk to BALBOA PARK--The zoo, botanical garden, and every other museum imaginable are tucked into this park! Not to mention, the grounds are impeccable, offering a variety of nature paths to explore if museums are not of interest. Grab a cup of coffee and walk to the park each morning just to enjoy this beautiful park!
Interested in the Midway Tour--a 7 minute walk from the Zen!
BEST RESTAURANT NEAR THE ZEN: MIA TRATTORIA @ 3401 1st Avenue which is also a short walk or drive just around the corner--rated 5 star ---Italian cuisine that you will seriously want to come back to San Diego for. Casual atmosphere.
BEST SUNSET DINNER over the water: 11 minute drive to WONDERLAND OCEAN PUB--the food is outstanding and the views magnificent from every table! Casual beach atmosphere.
BEST SUNSET VIEWING without a meal: 11 minutes to SUNSET CLIFF---not to be missed! Wear your walking shoes and try to get to there 15 minutes before sunset to take in the views!
BEST VIEWS OF THE SKYLINE: 14 minute drive to FORT ROSECRANS NATIONAL PARK ---walking paths around the perimeter of this peninsula provide breathtaking views of the pacific ocean and the surrounding Bay area! Capture incredible photo opportunities of the SD skyline, sailboats, and Navy aircrafts taking off. The historic fort is worth the trip alone.
BEST VIEWS OF THE COAST by WATER: "Gone Sailing Charters" --5 Minutes from the Zen, this family owned business is run by Captain Dan (retired US Navy), who has lived in San Diego for over 30 years.
Magnificent Southern California WINE COUNTRY: GO TO TEMECULA VALLEY: a 40- minute drive from the Zen and worth the trip just to see the breathtaking countryside! If you are interested in Wine tasting and taking in jaw dropping views--I suggest going to CALLAWAY VINEYARD AND WINERY, FALKNER (make lunch reservations) and MOUNT PALOMAR. There are bus tours of this area too---we were thankful to have our car to take in the immense diverse scenery.
BEACH DAY: beaches are less than 5 minutes away from the ZEN with the exception of the CORONADO which is about 14 minutes. It would be worth taking a day to head over to the Coronado to take in their expansive beaches, lunch at the Del Coronado, drinks and music at the Beach Shack, and shopping /dinner in the town of Coronado. Street parking is available along the beach and the shopping district.