As the official first day of summer approaches next week, another special day is also on the horizon – Father’s Day. June doesn’t just bring sunny skies, warm breezes, and sand-filled days at the beach, but it also gives us the chance to celebrate the men in our lives – the dads, husbands, grandfathers, great-grandfathers, and other special men who’ve been there for us for a lifetime. If you’ve yet to come up with the perfect ideas for gifts and activities that express the level of gratitude you have for your personal hero, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of some of the best places in San Diego to celebrate the day with your favorite man, as well as a few great gift ideas.
Take Dad out to Eat
Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge
This Pacific Beach hot spot has partnered with Spa Kingston to provide an ocean view lunch and afternoon massage package for the hardworking dad in your life. For $70, dad will receive a one-hour massage, followed by a delectable Firehouse burger paired with a Bloody Mary. Spend some special time with dad and get him a relaxing Father’s Day gift all in one easy package.
Café Sevilla
Have big plans for Father’s Day, but still need the perfect place to eat out? Treat him to “Father’s Day in Spain” at Café Sevilla. They’ve planned an epic nine-course tapas brunch for $29.50 per person. Dad will love the tortilla Española, chimichurri, seven-hour braised rioja short ribs, and other tantalizing courses. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, this is a great place to kick off the day before heading out on a fishing excursion or a brewery tour.
Red O La Jolla
The Red O La Jolla restaurant is the perfect eatery for an upbeat and fun brunch experience. For $49 per person, they are offering a special Father’s Day brunch buffet filled with Mexi-Cali dishes that will not disappoint. You’ll find everything from chilaquiles and made-to-order omelets stations to lobster mac & cheese and prime steak carving stations. You can also add on bottomless mimosas, sangrias, tequila sunrises, and Bloody Mary’s for just $20 more.
Spend Special Time Together
Cinema under the Stars
This is the ideal evening out for dads with young children. This Mission Hills outdoor movie venue is family-friendly at under $20 per person, with the option of purchasing snacks and beverages for $2 each. Dads can nestle under cozy blankets with their loved ones while the stars twinkle above them as they watch a classic movie. Share the nostalgia of an outdoor movie with dad, and make new memories with the kids at this screening of Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark.
Flagship’s Father’s Day Cruise
For dads who appreciate a touch of nautical luxury, take them on Flagship’s Father’s Day Cruise, leaving from North Harbor Drive in Downtown, San Diego. Experience cruising across 25 miles of picturesque ocean scenery as a live soloist beguiles the ears. You and dad can indulge in Beer N’ Brats brunch on a day cruise, or enjoy a three-course Prime Rib dinner on a later cruise. Dad gets a mimosa upon boarding the ship and unlimited domestic beers along the ride, all for under $80.
This Coronado Island event is the perfect setting for your favorite military dad. This annual Father’s Day concert and barbecue is open to everyone at under $80 per person and supports America’s military and veteran families. It kicks off with an amazing skydiving show by members of the Naval Warfare community, and is followed by a delectable barbecue. To top it off, live music is provided by Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band who cover hits from well-known artists like The Police, Bruno Mars, and Bruce Springsteen among others.
Give Dad Something Awesome
Noise-cancelling Headphones
Let’s be honest, our dads adore us, but everyone needs a little peace and quiet now and then, an escape from life’s hectic pace. That’s where BOSE QuietComfort Wireless Headphones come into play, although they may be on the pricier side of gifts, they will most certainly never go out of style, or usefulness.
Portable Gas Grill
You’ll be the outdoorsy dad’s favorite when you gift him the RoadTrip Portable Gas Grill from Coleman. It’s great for summer camping and fishing trips, and a must-have for NFL weekend tailgating. It folds out for easy grilling, and folds into a pull-cart for easy transporting. This moderately priced gift is lightweight and easy to use. Take Dad to Mission Bay Park and initiate it with a Father’s Day cookout.
Gear VR Headset
Is your dad a total techie? If so, look no further than the Gear VR Headset from Samsung; a virtual reality headset that is sure to impress. He gets to sit back and totally immerse himself in an alternate reality without ever having to leave his favorite chair. It boasts 360-degree panoramic views and works for games, videos, and images.
How about you? What’s on tap this weekend for your dad?