Mother’s Day calls for some truly special treatment. So, what should you plan for one of the most important people in your life? The San Diego area offers plenty of unique ways to celebrate her special day.

Things to Do on Mother’s Day in San Diego

1. Dinner at Juniper and Ivy

Juniper and Ivy offers American cuisine at its best. Imagine your favorite comfort foods with inventive twists, followed by mouthwatering desserts. Buttermilk biscuits with smoked foie gras butter, barbecue carrots, and Tuna Wellington are just a few of the classics re-imagined here. You can’t leave Juniper and Ivy without trying Yodel, a devil’s food cake-based dessert decked out in white chocolate, hazelnut crisps, and warm chocolate sauce. The menu contains some gluten-free items and if you can manage it, sit at the chef’s table. You’ll get an intimate view of the kitchen and perfect lighting for your social-media food pics.  

Where: 2228 Kettner Blvd, Little Italy, San Diego, CA

2. Claire’s on Cedros for Brunch

If you’re looking for an alternative to too-cool-for-school brunch spots, give Claire’s on Cedros a try this Mother’s Day. From the cheerful ambiance to its pet-friendly outdoor seating area and trademark shortbread cookies at checkout, the warm vibe (along with the outstanding food) might just have you joining the throngs of regulars at Claire’s. You’ll find every variation on Eggs Benedict imaginable, ranging from hot pepper- and salsa- topped quinoa cakes to salmon cakes finished with arugula and tomato atop a flaky croissant. Fuel your Mom’s Day with bottomless coffee, and indulge in the restaurant’s lemon ricotta Clairecakes guilt-free. We’re not referring to the calorie count here, but rather the fact that San Diego’s first LEED® Platinum certified restaurant is always looking for more ways to operate sustainably. Gluten-free options are available.

Where: 246 N Cedros Ave, Solana Beach, CA

3. Spa Day at Rancho Valencia

Treat Mom to a well-deserved day of R & R. Whether you opt for a spa package or a la carte services, you can’t miss with a spa day at the luxurious Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa. The atmosphere here is incredibly quiet and serene — the perfect setting for letting your troubles slip away. Spa services come with access to all spa facilities, including yoga and other classes. Custom botanical formulations allow for maximum effectiveness of targeted treatments. Whether you want to look more radiant or restore balance after a particularly stressful few weeks, bond with Mom over the spa treatments of your choice.

Where: 5921 Valencia Cir Rancho, Santa Fe, CA

4. Wine Tasting in Temecula

Make the short trip to the Temecula Valley Wine Country for an afternoon of tastings. Savor each sip, as the area’s ideally suited soil produces truly flavorful wines. With 40-plus wineries vying for your attention, choosing may be your biggest challenge. The area is designed for short rides between wineries, so you may be able to visit a few in a day’s time. If you can, plan for a two-day excursion to maximize your time here. Some wineries have on-site lodging and dining, and many hotel chains around Interstate 15 offer affordable, no-frills accommodations. Consider taking one of many back-roads options for a scenic beginning and end to your jaunt.

Where: Temecula Valley, CA

5. Shopping in La Jolla

Break out the plastic and plan for a leisurely day (or weekend) of retail therapy with your mother. Shop for wares of all kinds in lovely La Jolla, from unique artisan finds to high-end baubles. Whether you browse independent specialty retailers or designer boutiques, it’s almost impossible to walk away empty-handed. 

Where: Village of La Jolla, La Jolla, CA

6. Carlsbad’s Weekly Farmers Market

Enjoy a variety of flavors and spend some quality time with Mom. Whether you’re picking up organic fruits and veggies to cut and freeze for a special Mother’s Day meal or indulging your senses during a day on the town, the Wednesday farmers market in Carlsbad is just the ticket. Crafts, local honey, specialty mushrooms, fresh fish, packaged foods, and handmade chocolates are just some of the surprises awaiting you. Sample away, but be sure to save room for a drink and a bite from Barrel Republic. Dance off your indulgences to live music.

Where: 2930 Roosevelt St, Carlsbad, CA

7. 40th Annual Spring Arts and Crafts Fair

If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind items, head to this local outdoor bazaar hosted by Bernardo Winery. Held every Mother’s Day, the fair offers hand-crafted items from over 125 artisans. Even if you’re not in the market for soaps, crafts, paintings, sculptures, pottery, and other works of art, the lively atmosphere and on-site activities are worth the trip. Live music, wine tastings, and a food court round out the festivities. Admission is free, and parking and shuttles are available.

Where: Bernardo Winery, 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA

Whether an afternoon sipping wine or strolling through a craft fair speaks to your Mom, you’ll have no problem finding something fun to do together this Mother’s Day weekend in sunny San Diego.