When one thinks of San Diego, the city probably comes to mind immediately. San Diego is a beautiful city but that’s only telling part of the story. San Diego isn’t just an urban community. There is an entire county around it to explore as well. San Diego County offers a very diverse lifestyle thanks to the many small towns that make it up. Each town has its own feel and conveniences. Think you know San Diego County? Want to know more about the area? Check out the following communities and see why so many families are looking to call San Diego County home.
Alpine
Looking to get out on the open road? The Freeway is nearby for easy travel into the city and nearby communities. There is plenty of diverse terrain for nature lovers, as well. Alpine is located near the Cuyamaca Mountains, which makes for great hiking. Alpine has a rural and rustic feel which is great for families looking for a little quiet while still only being a half hour away from San Diego itself. If you like to gamble, there are plenty of casinos in the area including Viejas Casino Hotel Resort, Sycuan Resort & Casino, Barona Resort & Casino, and more. If you want to make a trip out of it, the bright lights of Las Vegas are only five hours away.
Pine Valley
Pine Valley is a small country town in the shadows of the Cuyamaca Mountains. The town gets its name from the unique Jeffrey pine trees that grow along the Pine Valley Creek. It’s located right off Highway 8 for easy travel options. It is known for Pine Valley Park which is a beautiful day park in the Easy County. It offers picnic areas you can reserve across 17 acres of land. It’s extremely popular for family gatherings. Some of the recreational activities available to you include baseball fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, shuffleboard, horseshoes, children’s playground, and horseback riding. Imagine having all of that in practically your backyard!
Lakeside
Interested in a lake front property? Lakeside is close to three lakes: Lake Jennings, El Capitan Reservoir, and San Vicente Reservoir. Diverse wildlife calls the area home including the rainbow trout and largemouth bass. The area is known for its hiking, biking, and horseback riding. If you enjoy the outdoors, Lakeside is for you. The trailhead to the summit of El Cajon Mountain is also in the area, which is ideal for hikers. Even if you don’t love the outdoors, you’re still in close proximity to some fantastic casinos.
Ramona
It’s no surprise so many families are looking for real estate in Ramona. This community really does seem to have it all. Great weather, small town feel but still in driving distance of the hustle and bustle of San Diego, a view of the mountains…where to even start? Ramona is an outdoor paradise for those who love nature. There are many horse properties in Ramona thanks to the wide open spaces and great climate. What you may not know about the area, though, is its rich winemaking culture. Ramona is full of wineries both big and small. In many ways, it is the birthplace of the California wine renaissance. You could spend a couple weeks touring all the various wineries that have popped up in the region over the years. You would certainly be in for a tasty treat indeed. If you’re looking for a gateway to the back country, Ramona is it.
Fallbrook
Are you the kind of person who just likes to chill out? Fallbrook has that laid back small town vibe to it that so many families are craving. The cool ocean breeze keeps the weather laid back, just like you. Fallbrook is known for its rolling hills and delicious, fresh produce. It’s most famous for its avocado and citrus orchards. In fact, Fallbrook hosts an annual Avocado Festival that acts as a showcase for the region. Residents are close to the Santa Margarita River and San Luis Rey River, which creates a natural barrier and sense of privacy. That’s not to say you’re isolated, either. Interstate 15 is nearby for convenient travel options.
San Diego County has so much to offer families of every background. While San Diego proper may be famous for being a beautiful urban area, there is so much more to experience. Whatever you’re looking for in a home, there is something for you outside of the urban environment. One of the small communities listed above may be exactly what you’ve been seeking. If you’re looking for great schools, more room for your family to grow, lots of places to play, and vast spaces to call your own, San Diego County is the place to be.