Patch’s Picks: 5 Great Staycations for Spring and Summer

This isn’t news, but sometimes we need a reminder: Our home is one of the top tourist destinations in the world!  People save for months on end just to be able to spend a day in San Diego, and when they get here, they envy those of us who live here year-round.

It’s easy to get caught up in the grind and forget all the cool and actually free activities right in our own backyard. So next time you get a break in your schedule, save money and the hassle of flying somewhere else to have fun; check out some of these great staycations right outside your door!

For a charming country excursion, look no further.  The Bernardo winery is the oldest running winery in Southern California and is a favorite place for local and out of town guests to eat, drink, shop and peruse the many galleries on-site.

Spend a day soaking up the sunshine at this upscale 18-hole championship golf course and even take lessons or participate in clinics held by PGA professionals.  Then, for a little more relaxation, head on over to the outdoor garden oasis for a luxurious spa treatment.

• Rancho Bernardo-Glassman Recreation Center and Park

This beautiful recreation center offers 40 acres and several hours of outdoor fun with six tennis courts, lawn bowling, two outdoor basketball courts, eight ball fields, a two acre dog park and a large gazebo. An indoor gymnasium is also available to catch some shade.

• Lake Hodges Reservoir

Fishing, boating, sailing, biking and horseback riding are just some of the activities you can do in this beautiful setting by the water. You can even take a nice morning or afternoon hike on the dirt trail around the lake and then replenish your energy with a picnic.

• San Diego Zoo Safari Park

With 1,800 acres, 3,500 species of unique plants and more than 3,000 wild and endangered animals, this nearby San Diego hot spot (formerly named the San Diego Wild Animal Park) is one attraction you can never visit too many times!