San Diego’s merchant scene opens for business each day in a resort climate. That means most shopping centers are indoor/outdoor experiences typical of town squares with every thing from live entertainment to restaurants.
Fashion trends in San Diego represent an eclectic demographic — from college students to affluent residents, surfers, and border towns — all ages, all kinds of people. Don’t be surprised to see men wearing short sleeve shirts with scarves, or women with sundresses and boots. Anything goes here.
And here’s where you can go to find the hottest styles.
Outdoor Malls and Outlet Centers
Fashion Valley Mallin Mission Valley is an upscale experience, offering more than 200 world-class shops including Tiffany, Burberry, and Saks Fifth Avenue, an AMC movie theatre, and dining. Call ahead and ask about free personal shopping services in some of the finer stores.
Carlsbad Premium Outletsin north county features more than 90 stores in an outdoor village setting, with savings representing 25 to 65 percent. Viajas Outlet Center in Alpine is a popular spot with cultural Kumeyaay décor and fountains in this near-desert shopping oasis.
Resale Boutiques
Accessorize without losing bulk in your wallet and explore the hidden treasures in resale boutiques. A leisurely drive along historic Highway 101 through north county beach towns will reveal shops that specialize in high quality, gently worn labels, such as Carolyn’s Designer Resale in Del Mar, Double Takein Solana Beach, and Flashback in Encinitas.
Uniquely San Diego
Walk tree-lined paths around shops in Seaport Village, located on 14 acres of waterfront by San Diego Bay with more than 50 stores and 17 restaurants. Enter Captain’s Covefor nautical-themed relics, orWyland Galleriesfor marine life art and sculptures. Plus, you’ll find daily entertainment, including Polynesian dancing and face painting.
Enjoy a famous margarita at Casa Guadelajara restaurant in Old Town’s Bazaar del Mundo. From artisan’s jewelry to folk-art gifts and décor, unique shops await the adventurous world traveler. The
best time to browse with fewer crowds is early morning or evening. Most
merchants open their doors at 10am and some stay open until 9pm.
Shopping in San Diego transcends the typical mall experience. And with unique neighborhoods in the region, there are unlimited niches to explore. So get out there, and shop till you drop.