After three long days on the road, we finally arrived at our first California coast destination: San Diego Mission Bay RV Resort. We left Colorado early, making our way through the beautiful changing landscapes of New Mexico before stopping overnight in Phoenix, Arizona. By the time we reached San Diego, we were tired, excited, and more than ready to settle into the slower rhythm of coastal life.
Once we unpacked the camper and got situated at the campground, we walked over to Camp Land Cantina Bar & Grill to unwind from the drive. Sitting outdoors with the warm California air around us instantly felt like vacation mode had officially begun. I ordered a refreshing coconut margarita while we shared homemade chips and salsa, simple, relaxed, and exactly what we needed after days on the road.
For dinner that evening, we headed to Bare Back Grill where we enjoyed delicious ribs, creamy macaroni and cheese with roasted brussel sprouts. Everything was comforting, flavorful, and satisfying after travel days fueled mostly by gas station snacks and quick stops.
The next morning brought one of those moments that reminds you why you travel in the first place. We started the day with yoga by the seaside, the sound of the waves becoming the backdrop to our practice. The ocean breeze, soft morning light, and endless coastal horizon created a sense of peace and grounding that felt deeply restorative after the intensity of the drive. It was the perfect beginning to our California coast adventure.
Day 2 of our California coast adventure was everything we had hoped for, relaxed, scenic, and filled with those simple moments that end up becoming favorite memories. We started the day at Mission Beach, where we grabbed lunch at Mission Baja Tacos. Their burritos were hands down the best we’d had so far, fresh, flavorful, and exactly what you crave after a morning near the ocean.
After lunch, we spent time walking the famous three-mile Mission Beach boardwalk, soaking in the lively coastal energy. The mix of beach cruisers, surfers, oceanfront homes, palm trees, and salty air created that classic Southern California atmosphere that feels both vibrant and carefree.
Later in the afternoon, we made our way to Sunset Cliffs, and honestly, no photo could fully capture how breathtaking it was in person. The rugged sandstone cliffs stretched dramatically along the coastline while waves crashed endlessly against the rocks below. There was something grounding and humbling about standing there, listening to the power of the ocean while watching seabirds glide through the coastal breeze. It felt like one of those places that naturally quiets your mind and reminds you how beautiful the world can be.
After taking in the scenery, we headed to Wonderland Ocean Pub for a few drinks. The rooftop ocean views were absolutely unbeatable, panoramic stretches of coastline, crashing waves below, and the perfect laid-back California beach vibe. We lingered there for a while, simply enjoying the moment and letting the day slowly unwind.
We ended the evening back at our campsite, sitting quietly together as the coastal sunset faded into the horizon. After the busyness of everyday life and the long drive getting there, those peaceful moments by the camper, wrapped in ocean air and fading light, felt especially meaningful.