📰 News Highlights

Tourism Worker Wage Proposal Moves Forward

San Diego’s City Council will weigh a proposal next week to raise the minimum wage for tourism workers to $25 an hour—but with concessions for some of the city’s biggest venues. Under the revised plan, hotels with 150+ rooms, SeaWorld, and event centers like Petco Park would phase in the increase over four years, starting at $19–$21 in 2026 and reaching $25 by 2030. The San Diego Zoo is exempt after negotiating its own wage deal earlier this year.

Supporters, including local unions, say the hike is vital for thousands of lower-wage workers in hotels, ballparks, and entertainment venues to afford living in San Diego. Business groups remain opposed, warning of higher costs for visitors and residents.

Want to learn more? Read the full article here.

Sesame Place San Diego Goes Seasonal

Sesame Place San Diego announced it will shift to a seasonal schedule, closing after this Sunday and reopening May–September starting in 2026. The news caught both visitors and employees off guard, with many learning of the change through a social media post.

2025 pass holders will receive a SeaWorld Fun Card for the rest of the year, while details for Platinum Pass members are still being worked out. Employees will be reassigned to SeaWorld during the off-season. Sesame Place says the move allows it to focus on its busiest months, though fans are disappointed to miss holiday events like Halloween and Christmas.

Want to learn more? Check out the full story here.

Want us to feature a new business in your neighborhood? 💼

Complete this form and we’d be happy to share the business in our newsletter and on instagram! 💬💛 New Business Form

Love what we do at North County San Diego? 🌞

If our videos, posts, or recommendations have helped you discover something new or made your day a little brighter, we’d be so grateful if you left us a Google review! Your support helps us keep sharing the best of North County — one beach day, bite, and hidden gem at a time 💬💛 Leave a review here! 

🎬 Reel Recap + Real Details

Terminal 1 Sneak Peek

Big news, travelers: starting next week, September 23, San Diego’s brand-new Terminal 1 officially opens its doors! For those flying on the evening of September 22, you’ll get a sneak peek with arrivals shifting into the new space, but by the 23rd, all flights will be fully transitioned. This isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a whole new travel experience. Think 13 security lanes to get you through faster, 30 restaurants and shops featuring local favorites, sun-filled spaces with bay views, and thousands of new parking spots (plus EV chargers). After years of planning and community input, SAN is making flying fun again—so pack your bags, come hungry, and get ready to start your trip on a high note.

Want to learn more? Check out this link or watch our reel here.

Parking Fees are Coming to Balboa Park

Big changes are on the way for Balboa Park visitors: later this year, paid parking will begin in park lots and along nearby streets. San Diego residents will get discounted rates (expected by January 2026), while ADA parking, employee/volunteer parking, and the free tram service will remain. Rates will vary by lot, starting at $5 per day for residents and up to $16 for non-residents in central lots.

Want to learn more? Read the plan or watch our reel here.

​​Your Guide to Weekend Fun ✨

Super Girl Surf Pro

Mark your calendars: the 19th annual Super Girl Surf Pro hits Oceanside September 19–21, 2025! This free, family-friendly festival isn’t just the world’s largest women’s surf competition—it’s a three-day celebration of women in sports, music, art, and culture.

Expect jaw-dropping performances from elite surfers, plus a festival village packed with female-powered vendors, fitness classes, live music, art exhibitions, and more. Since 2007, the Super Girl Festival Series has been all about empowering women and showcasing talent in spaces where they’re often underrepresented. With its 20th anniversary around the corner in 2026, the energy is only building.

Come for the waves, stay for the inspiration—and be part of a movement that uplifts women across every arena.

Want to attend? Check out this link!

ArtWalk Carlsbad

Get ready to soak up the creativity—ArtWalk Carlsbad is back September 20–21, 2025 on Armada Drive, overlooking the ocean and the Flower Fields. This free, family-friendly festival brings together more than 150 artists from across the U.S. and Mexico, showcasing everything from paintings and sculpture to glass, jewelry, and photography.

Beyond the art, enjoy live music all weekend (in partnership with the San Diego Music Awards), hands-on activities at KidsWalk, and plenty of food and drink options from local vendors. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just dipping your toes into the world of art, ArtWalk Carlsbad is the perfect way to explore, discover, and take home something inspiring.

Want to learn more? Check out their website here!

Local Eats and Coffee Shops ❤️ 

☕ Coffee Shop of the Week: Hunters of Hendrix

📍Scripps Ranch | 10045 Carroll Canyon Rd 

After years of serving up craft coffee, fresh pastries, and local vibes in the heart of Scripps Ranch, Hunters of Hendrix will be officially closing its doors on September 30th. Beloved for its eco-sourced brews, donut collabs with Donutopolis, and eclectic, community-driven spirit, this coffee shop has been more than just a place to grab a latte—it’s been a lifestyle hub. If you haven’t tried their specialty drinks or breakfast bites yet, now’s the time to savor this iconic neighborhood gem before it’s gone.

Check out their instagram here!

🍴 Restaurant of the Week: 508 Tavern

📍Vista | 508 S Santa Fe

Since opening in 2017, 508 Tavern has become a Vista favorite thanks to its comfort-food menu, rotating craft beers, and hometown hospitality. Founded by locals and still run with the same welcoming spirit, it’s the kind of spot where great food and exceptional service keep regulars coming back. Don’t miss their Throwback Thursday special—an XL slider, fries, and a draft for just $15 (plus $4.50 pints of Stone Buenaveza or Pizza Port Chronic). Whether you’re here for the brews, the bites, or the friendly vibe, 508 Tavern is all about community and flavor.

Check out their instagram here!

📺 New Listing, Retirement Communities & More

San Diego's BEST New & Upcoming Projects

This week on The San Diego Scoop, we’re covering the stories that actually impact your daily life in San Diego. From a massive new sports and entertainment district that could completely transform South Bay, to world-class athletes making waves in North County, and some important shifts in the housing market, this episode is packed with updates you’ll want to know before making your next move.

The MOST UNDERRATED 55+ Communities in San Diego

While everyone’s fighting for their slice of Del Mar and La Jolla, there are hidden retirement gems in San Diego that are quietly offering everything retirees need at a fraction of the price. After years of helping people find the perfect spot to retire, I can tell you the smart money isn’t going where you think.

Coming Soon! 

Mediterranean Farmhouse Retreat in the Heart of Del Sur

4 bed | 3 bath | 3,461 sqft

Step into a home where style meets comfort and every detail is designed for modern living. This Mediterranean-inspired farmhouse welcomes you with an expansive 3-car tandem garage, an airy open-concept living room and chef’s kitchen, and a bonus room perfect for hosting friends or enjoying cozy family nights in.

🔍 Search Homes for Sale in North County
Start your search here: Explore Listings 

Want to learn more or feature your home?
Reach out to Bern for personalized support, market insights, or to get your home listed and seen. 📧 Email Bern Today: [email protected]