Coast & Laurel’s Guide to an Unforgettable Holiday Season
Posted by Coast & Laurel | December 2025
The holiday season along the San Diego coast is pure magic. From twinkling lights reflecting off the Pacific to intimate gatherings at historic venues, our corner of Southern California offers experiences that turn ordinary December days into cherished memories. As your trusted partners in home care, we spend our days in these beautiful communities—and we've discovered some holiday traditions that are simply too good not to share.
Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, here are our favorite ways to get into the holiday spirit in Del Mar, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Encinitas.
1. Sunset Cocktails at L'Auberge Del Mar: A Tradition in the Making
Why we love it: Sometimes a new tradition finds you when you least expect it. This year, we discovered the magic of pre-Thanksgiving cocktails at L'Auberge Del Mar, and we're already planning to make it an annual ritual.
Picture this: the sun painting the sky in shades of pink and gold as it dips toward the Pacific, expertly crafted cocktails in hand, and that unmistakable festive energy that only happens during the holidays. The bartenders here are true artists—every drink is made to perfection. But honestly, it's the views that seal the deal. There's something about watching the sunset over the ocean with a glass of something special that puts everything into perspective.
Pro tip: Arrive about 45 minutes before sunset to snag the best seats on the terrace. The golden hour glow is worth planning around.
📍 L'Auberge Del Mar, 1540 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar (www.laubergedelmar.com)
2. Stock Your Holiday Kitchen at Our Two Favorite Local Markets
Why we love them: Not all markets are created equal, and when you're preparing holiday meals, quality, local ingredients make all the difference.
Lazy Acres Market (Encinitas)
This isn't just a grocery store—it's a food lover's paradise. Whether you're hunting down specialty spices for your grandmother's secret recipe or sourcing local, organic produce for your holiday table, Lazy Acres delivers. Their selection of hard-to-find ingredients has saved us more than once, and their meat and seafood departments maintain standards that would make any chef happy.
Can't face cooking this year? No judgment here. Lazy Acres offers complete holiday feast packages that'll make your guests think you spent all day in the kitchen.
Cardiff Seaside Market
If you haven't explored the wine and spirits department at Cardiff Seaside Market, you're missing out. Yes, it's compact, but what they lack in size they make up for in curation. Every bottle has been thoughtfully selected—this is where you find that perfect wine to impress your in-laws or that special whiskey for your neighbor's gift.
The butcher counter is equally impressive, with high-quality cuts and knowledgeable staff who can guide you to exactly what you need. And like Lazy Acres, they offer holiday meal packages if you'd rather spend your time enjoying guests than basting turkeys.
📍 Lazy Acres Market, 1525 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas www.lazyacres.com
📍 Cardiff Seaside Market, 2087 San Elijo Ave, Cardiff www.seasidemarket.com
3. Yappy Hour at The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe: Holiday Cheer for Your Four-Legged Friend
December 12 at Bing's Bar
Why we love it: Because your pup deserves to celebrate too, obviously.
If there's one thing that makes the holidays even better, it's including our furry family members in the festivities. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe gets it. Their Holiday Yappy Hour on December 12 promises to be the social event of the season—for dogs, that is.
Picture Bing's Bar filled with playful pups, outdoor seating perfect for mingling (both human and canine), refreshing cocktails for the two-legged attendees, and plenty of toys and treats for the four-legged ones. It's a fundraiser with a festive twist, and honestly, what could be more joyful than watching dogs make new friends while you sip something delicious?
Pro tip: Bring your friendliest pup and prepare for serious tail-wagging action. This is the ultimate networking event for dog lovers.
📍 The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, 5951 Linea del Cielo, Rancho Santa Fe Yappy Hour at the Inn
4. San Diego Bay Parade of Lights: We're Finally Doing This
December 14 & 21
Why we're excited: After years of saying "we should really do that," this is the year we're making it happen.
The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is legendary—dozens of boats decked out in elaborate light displays, cruising through the bay in a spectacle that's equal parts festive and whimsical. The question isn't whether to go (you absolutely should), but how to experience it.
Our Top Viewing Options:
Waterfront Dining: Secure a reservation at a bayside restaurant and watch the parade while enjoying dinner and wine. Fish Market downtown offers great views and fresh seafood, while the Brigantine at Portside Pier provides an elevated experience with plenty of windows facing the water.
On the Water: If you can't snag a restaurant reservation (they book fast), consider joining a viewing cruise with Sail San Diego Charters. Being on the water surrounded by those illuminated boats? That's next-level holiday magic.
Two Dates, No Excuses: With parades on both December 14 and 21, you have options. Can't make the first one? The second is equally spectacular.
Pro tip: Make reservations NOW for waterfront restaurants—this is one of San Diego's most popular holiday events.
🔗 More info: sdparadeoflights.org
5. The Lafayette Hotel: Where Holiday Decor Becomes an Art Form
Why we love it: Because subtlety is overrated when it comes to holiday decorations.
The historic Lafayette Hotel doesn't do anything halfway, and their holiday decor is proof. This isn't a few wreaths and some tinsel—this is a full-scale transformation that would make Santa himself pause to admire it.
We stopped by last weekend, claimed a table overlooking the iconic pool (yes, even the pool area gets the holiday treatment), and settled in for cocktails in a setting that felt like stepping into a vintage holiday postcard. The atmosphere alone is worth the visit, but add in their tea service and various dining options, and you have the perfect afternoon escape.
Whether you're looking for a festive backdrop for photos, a unique spot for catching up with friends, or just want to immerse yourself in some serious holiday spirit, the Lafayette delivers.
Pro tip: Visit during the day for tea service and photos, or in the evening when the lights create an extra layer of magic.
📍 The Lafayette Hotel, 2223 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego
🔗 lafayettehotelsd.com
Make This Your Most Memorable Holiday Season Yet
The beauty of the holidays in North County San Diego is that you don't have to choose between relaxation and celebration—you can have both. These experiences remind us why we love living and working in these coastal communities. Every sunset is spectacular, every neighborhood has its own charm, and there's always something special happening just around the corner.
As you plan your holiday activities and travels, remember that Coast & Laurel is here to ensure your home is cared for while you're out creating these memories. Whether you're escaping for your own holiday getaway and want a watchful eye on your home to keep things running smoothly, or hosting guests from out of town and could use a little extra help with managing all the projects to get ready, we’re here to help.
Have a favorite local holiday tradition we missed? We'd love to hear about it! Share your recommendations in the comments or send us an email telling us about your favorite holiday favorites in San Diego.
From all of us at Coast & Laurel, wishing you a season filled with joy, perfect sunsets, and homes that welcome you back with open doors.
While You're Celebrating, We'll Care for Your Home
Planning to travel this holiday season? Coast & Laurel provides personalized home care services including property checks, mail management, plant care, and coordination with service providers and more. Visit our Services page to learn more, or contact us to create a custom care plan for your home.
Serving Del Mar, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, Solana Beach, Cardiff, and Encinitas with trusted, professional care.