Point Loma

POINT LOMA NEIGHBORHOOD GUIDE

Where coastal history meets laid-back marina life

Vibe & Personality Snapshot

Point Loma feels like one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets. This peninsula neighborhood is steeped in local history, from the Cabrillo National Monument and military roots to the marina culture and family-run seafood spots that have been around for generations. It’s a place where classic coastal homes, yachts, and cozy hidden pockets all blend together. Locals love the small-town feel, walkability near the bay, and the fact that you’re minutes from both downtown and the surf breaks in OB. The vibe is equal parts laid-back marina life and timeless coastal charm with plenty of new restaurants and local businesses to keep it fresh.

Local Highlights & Unique Things To Do

Liberty Station: One of the best lifestyle hubs in San Diego. This former naval training center is packed with some of the city’s best spots for dining, arts, and community fun.

The Lot Liberty Station: My go-to upscale movie theater with plush seating and dinner-and-drinks service. Makes “dinner and a movie” actually feel elevated.

Liberty Public Market: A must for a casual lunch or quick local eats. Grab something from one of the many vendors and enjoy the outdoor seating.

Cone Pane Rustic Breads & Café: One of my favorite bakeries in San Diego. Their fresh bread and pastries are next-level and perfect for a Saturday morning treat.

Ice Rink at Liberty Station: A local holiday tradition. The outdoor rink pops up every Christmas season and gives Liberty that cozy, festive village feel.

Pinot’s Palette: A fun, casual date night or friends night out. Sip wine and get artsy with a paintbrush.

Sunset Cliffs: Right next door if you want dramatic ocean views, surf, and a sunset that never disappoints.

Cabrillo National Monument: Take in sweeping views of the bay, hike the tide pool trail, or learn a bit about San Diego’s earliest days.

Concerts at Humphreys by the Bay: Catch live music on the waterfront. There’s nothing like watching a show with the marina as your backdrop or even... from your boat in the marina!

Best Coastal Spots & Marinas

Kellogg Beach: A quiet local spot tucked away off the bay. One of my personal favorite beaches in San Diego when I want low-key sand time with calm water.

Shelter Island: Walk along the marina, grab a drink, or watch the boats come in. Perfect for sunset.

Harbor Island: A quick drive away for waterfront dining and incredible skyline views.

Coffee Shops & Co-Working Spots

Moniker General: Half coffee shop, half boutique. Good vibes, great design, and solid coffee.

Portside Coffee & Gelato: The Shelter Island location is a must for a morning coffee with a harbor view.

Local Krave: Neighborhood favorite for casual coffee runs, easy breakfast bites, and good people-watching.

Selva Coffee & Kitchen: Bright and inviting with great coffee and fresh bites. One of my go-to spots when I want something chill but high quality.

Liberty Station Public Market Vendors: Grab coffee from one of the local stalls, then wander the market or sit out in the courtyard.

Locally Famous Restaurants and Foodie Spots

Point Loma Seafoods: An institution at H&M Landing. Fresh catches right off the dock, fish tacos, and a casual outdoor patio that feels like old-school San Diego.

Mitch’s Seafood: Another local classic with a laid-back waterfront vibe, amazing chowder, and boats docked right outside.

Bali Hai: Iconic Shelter Island spot known for its unbeatable harbor views and famous Mai Tais.

Old Venice: A locals’ favorite for classic Italian in a cozy courtyard. The Greek Goddess pizza is my go-to.

Juno’s Pub: The neighborhood wine pub for when you want a casual night out with good bites and good company.

Cesarina: Right on the OB and Point Loma line but it deserves a spot here. Homemade pasta, killer desserts, and the warmest vibe.

Supannee House of Thai: Great casual Thai spot that’s been a local staple for years.

Liberty Public Market: Endless options under one roof. Tacos, poke, oysters, ramen, you name it.

Solare: Authentic Italian with house-made pastas and a welcoming, family-run vibe. A Liberty Station go-to.

Cone Pane Rustic Breads: Worth mentioning twice. One of my favorite bakeries in the city.

Portside Coffee & Gelato: Shelter Island location is great for coffee or an afternoon scoop with a view.

Bars, Breweries & Nightlife

Eppig Brewing Waterfront Biergarten: Grab a craft beer, sit along the harbor, and watch the sunset.

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens: Right in Liberty Station. Big outdoor garden, great beer lineup, and the perfect laid-back hang with friends.

Harbor Town Pub: Cozy neighborhood pub vibe. Solid beer list, good bar food, and always a friendly local crowd.

Bali Hai: For Mai Tais with a view that never gets old.

The Lot: Grab a cocktail before your movie and make it a full night out.

Shopping & Boutiques

Liberty Station: Local boutiques, galleries, and artisan pop-ups. Great for unique gifts, home goods, and local art.

Point Loma Village: A mix of surf shops, local boutiques, and family-run businesses that make this area feel personal.

Wellness & Fitness Scene

Point Loma Sports Club: One of the best boutique gyms around. Top-notch equipment, great group classes, and a real community vibe.

Liberty Station Parks & Trails: Walk the trails, hit the grassy open spaces, or rent a paddleboard at the marina.

CorePower Yoga: For when you want a solid flow before brunch.

Sunset Cliffs Walks: Not a gym but you’ll get your steps in and the view is your reward.

Best Date Ideas & Experiences

Dinner and a movie at The Lot: It’s one of my favorite ways to spend a Friday.

Paint night at Pinot’s Palette: Laugh, sip, and get creative.

Pastry run at Cone Pane: Take them down to Kellogg Beach and catch the sunrise.

Craft beer at Eppig: Walk Shelter Island first, then watch the sun go down with a local brew.

Mai Tais at Bali Hai: The strongest in town with the best harbor view to match. (p.s I recommend not driving)

Liberty Public Market and a stroll through the park: This was actually my wife and I’s first date. Grab something delicious from the market, then walk it off through the grassy trails and waterfront paths around Liberty Station. Simple, easy, and kind of perfect.

Real Estate Snapshot

Point Loma blends historic coastal homes, hidden bungalows, and stunning bay-view properties that often stay in families for years. You’ll find everything from updated mid-century houses to new builds tucked behind the marinas. It’s the kind of place that feels established and neighborly with room for everyone from young families to retirees who never want to leave the water. Local connections matter here and so does knowing which pocket is the best fit for your lifestyle.

Ready to claim your corner of Point Loma?

If you want a neighborhood that balances classic San Diego charm with the best coastal access and some of the city’s best hidden gems, let’s talk. I’ll show you the local side that makes Point Loma feel like home.