There’s no denying that we’re pretty lucky in North San Diego.
So, instead of going over your Christmas list this Thanksgiving, take a moment to be grateful for the priceless things we’ve already got. From the perfect weather to the surf, sand and never-ending list of things to do, Yelp found it easy to create this list of “Things to be Thankful for in North County.”
Wine Country:
Oh, wine. Maybe it’s getting you through the holiday or perhaps it’s simply a reduction in your sauce. Either way, North County has an abundance of grown-up fruit juice everywhere you turn. In fact, you could say the region hits the land lottery with sand and Syrah. So, a round of thanks is in order to local wineries like Lorimar and South Coast who bring the bubbly. Also, inland inhabitants are certainly grateful for the grapes at Vindemia Estates and Wien’s Family Cellars.
Parks & Recreation:
After that turkey dinner North County locals race for the coast and the lucky ones burn off those extra Thanksgiving calories with a hike at Torrey Pines. Along the miles of coastline, surfers bob in the waves at Moonlight State Beach and the natives take their relatives for a stroll in the San Diego Botanical Gardens. When out-of-town guests watch the palm trees sway you can bet they’re thinking “Mahalo, San Diego.”
Breweries Galore:
Mashed potatoes? Amateurs! The extra holiday calories should come from an awesome local brew and North SD has plenty of breweries to choose from. Vista's Indian Joe Brewing brings the beer for the feast, while the Iron Fist Brewing Company taps kegs and fills growlers with ease. It’s a world of bountiful brews here, that’s for sure, and a reason to thank the hops ad barley gods.
Shopping Small:
Local businesses thrive with thanks up North, due to residents committed to shopping small. Yelp’s Shop Local events have people taking the pledge and storeowners grateful for the crowds. Shop Solo and Leaping Lotus in Solana Beach, The Village Faire in Carlsbad and The Lumberyard in Encinitas. Why? Because every $100 spent at an independent retailer means $58 stays local.
Community:
Incredible locals are really what make this ‘hood the bee’s knees. They’re generous and kind, volunteering and supporting local organizations like the North County Food Bank, the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation and Rancho Coastal Humane Society. With all that you get up North, it’s great to give back. Next time you’re racing your bike down the Coast Hwy or hiking the seaside cliffs take a moment lucky duck: You've got it good!
Trish Sanderson is the community manager and marketing director for Yelp North County San Diego. She leads the local community of Yelp reviewers both online and off.
