North County's Hot Spot 

What beach town in San Diego has countless restaurants, a design district, a theatre group and a renowned musical venue? That would be Solana Beach. From the Belly Up Tavern to the North Coast Repertory Theatre; from a perfect picnic at Fletcher’s Cove to a day of shopping in the Cedros design district, Solana Beach is more than just a popular beach town along the 101 Highway. Solana Beach has its own verve or vibe of electricity that sets it apart from its neighboring beach communities. There’s an air of 'California cool' that emulates from this town, from its residents to its business owners, whose comfortable lifestyle show us what it means to live and breath the California dream.

        Residents of Solana Beach are like any other town; some have been there for decades or more while others have moved in more recently. All share a love of the ocean, a proximity to San Diego's main attractions, and an affinity for gorgeous sunsets. Resident, Steve Ostrow, has lived in Solana Beach for over 20 years. He explains why he feels this is no ordinary train stop on the Southern California Coastline. "There is so much that goes into this small town," he says. "The residents have the ability to really touch the city by participating in community events. We have our share of sushi restaurants, yoga, night time hot spots like the Belly Up, and you must mention the North Coast Repertory. It has been there for years. If you want to take your family for a picnic, Fletcher’s Cove is within walking distance from the train station. I don’t know of any other beach town that has such a diverse culture with world class music and a design center in the heart of the city."

        With so many diverse, cultural attractions, we've highlighted the top four must-see spots that one should not miss when visiting this unique beach city:

1.      Cedros Design District

This cultural hot spot has more than just furniture shops lining its storefronts. You can spend one fabulous day walking Cedros Avenue. With countless art galleries, gift shops and antique dealers, this area attracts everyone from interior decorators to home furnishing businesses vying for their own address on Cedros.

2.     Fletcher’s Cove

This wonderful beach park with playgrounds is just steps away from the waves. There are picnic tables, bathrooms and showers all conveniently close to make a perfect day under the sun. A wonderful idea would be to bring lunch with your family and spend the day relaxing, enjoying the surf and sun.

3.     The Belly Up

Touted as one of the hottest clubs on the West Coast by Rolling Stone, The Belly Up is a local tavern that brings live music every night to Solana Beach. Internationally acclaimed and also voted "San Diego's Best Live Music Venue" by the UT, it promises to be an exciting evening no matter if you see a headliner or tomorrow's next great act. Check out their website for performances and dates at www.bellyup.com.

4.     The North Coast Repertory

Are you ready for some live theatre? North Cost Repertory Theatre, a non-profit organization, started over 29 years ago in Solana Beach. Their mission is "to create a platform where artist and audience thrive through the intimacy of live theatre, recognizing the power of theatre to challenge complacency, revitalize the imagination, nurture the unexpected and embrace the variety and diversity in our lives." The setting is intimate but do not be fooled by its size. This theatre has year-round performances with talented actors, selling around 40,000 tickets in the 194 available seats. Check the show times at their web site Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. Bring your family or a date, and be ready to experience live theatre at its finest.  How wonderful that Solana Beach supports this non-profit organization.

So, the next time you're looking for some California dreamin', take note of Solana Beach. Of course, there is always the Pacific Ocean with reliable waves, sunshine and relaxation. But don't be afraid to add a little music or theatre into the mix. When it comes to more choices, don't forget the shopping and restaurants along the 101 to end your S.B. experience on a high note.