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Nobody here needs to pretend San Diego doesn’t come with a price tag – the sunshine tax is legit, and sometimes knowing what to do without breaking the bank can stump even the most savvy parents.
Fortunately for us, local mom Bartley Chavez has us all covered. Her account @bytheseamommyandme is the ultimate guide for San Diego mommas – she maps out itineraries, hits the hidden gems, and shares the kind of plans that make a free day feel like an event.
“I have always been passionate about getting out and exploring San Diego with my kids. As a family of six, we love looking for budget friendly and free things to do around town. My passion is helping families get out and explore as well. There is so much to see and do in San Diego that you don’t have to break the bank.”
Bartley Chavez, @bytheseamommyandme
Recently, I took my kids to Solana Beach and we rolled straight from her playbook. We followed directions (including where to park!), took a kid-friendly path to a bridge overlooking train tracks, and cheered as the Coaster and Surfliner trains passed below us. We crossed over to a park with an ocean view, lunch spots, and bathrooms (with a non-gross sink situation: a key feature if we’re all honest). We stopped to share some gelato as we completed our journey, and it rounded out our day for about $12.
Every time we do one of these outings, I’m awed at the power of being present with my kids. We’re still talking about the bridge by the train tracks, and they’re asking “When is the next adventure, Mom?” The trains were fun for me too, but the real takeaway was how easy it was to bond with my babies over such a simple day.
Cardiff Day: Start at the library for storytime, grab a quick bite nearby, walk to Glen Park, end at Cardiff State Beach for sunset.
Pepper Park, National City: Pirate-themed playground, splash pad, sand play area, and free fishing off the pier – no permit needed.
Take a look at @bytheseamommyandme and you’ll find plenty more where that came from!
The heart behind her account is to give local moms and kids great opportunities to connect in our beautiful city without breaking the bank, and it’s a resource that should not be missed.
We love anything that supports families getting out and being present together. And when you need San Diego babysitters for the days that are just for you, Sitterwise has you covered – we handle the toughest part of the plan so you can enjoy being present, which is what it’s all about.
Need a Sitter for Your Next Adventure?
Sitterwise has been connecting San Diego families with trusted, vetted caregivers since 1981. Book one, then go have the day.
