Under $100: San Diego

Despite having outstanding year-round weather and two major league sports franchises, aside from Anchorman and Comic Con, San Diego is somewhat forgotten when it comes to major Californian cities. That’s a shame, because this laid-back locale is home to breathtaking beaches, diverse neighborhood and a craft beer culture that’s unparalleled.

Start your morning at the beach, which is free (yay!) and the perfect spot for a walk, a run, a swim (though the Pacific tends to be brisk, water temperatures are lovely in the fall), or if you’re really on the Dawn Patrol, a surf. Grab breakfast at Kono’s Surf Club Café, which is right on the boardwalk in Pacific Beach. It’s inexpensive (four different breakfast burritos are all under $6 a pop) and though it’s generally busy, the service is fast and friendly.

When you’ve had your fill, head south to Ocean Beach, another coastal neighborhood that’s known for its eclectic vibe. Check out the antique shops on Newport Avenue, and catch lunch at local institution Hodad’s. Though it’s suffered a little bit from overexposure (thanks Guy Fieri), you still can’t beat their burgers (which start at just $4.25). A truly over-the-top milkshake, featuring what can only be described as an iceberg of ice cream, is also a definite must ($5.75). If you’re feeling overly full, burn some calories walking out onto the OB pier, which lets you peep Point Loma to the south and La Jolla to the north.

As the evening rolls around, go inland to North Park, which Gawker declared the Williamsburg of San Diego. This neighborhood abounds with good eats, but for an inexpensive and insanely delicious meal, hit up Carnitas Snack Shack. Just look for the line and you’ve found it! That said, this meat lover’s paradise is worth the wait. Try the Snack Shack BLT ($8.50) or the Carnitas Tacos ($7.50), an upscale take on a local favorite.

A day in SD is not complete without sampling some of the astonishing array of locally brewed beers. North Park is actually home to a few of San Diego County’s huge number of craft breweries — the Belching Beaver, Hess Brewing Company and Thorn St. Brewery are all based in the neighborhood. But to taste of a wide range of beers — as well as the North Park bar scene — head to Toronado. They feature an ever-changing array of local beers on tap (from favorites like Stone Brewery, Lagunitas, Coronado, Alpine, Societe, and many, many more) at prices that can’t be beat — many of these microbrews are just $4 a pint.

Give a toast to America’s Finest City, then hit the hay at The Pearl, a retro-styled boutique hotel in Point Loma where rooms average just $89/night for two-person occupancy. You’ll rest up in swanky digs and be more than ready to see what your next day in San Diego has to offer.