La Jolla Mom

La Jolla Mom 🌴 San Diego destination expert with discount tickets and luxury hotel perks worldwide 🌴

Written almost exclusively by me, Katie Dillon, the goal of La Jolla Mom is to inspire people to enjoy the world abroad and at home with their kids. Here, I document my love of five-star hotels, premium class cabins, and kid-friendly destinations. I do take the occasional press trip, but most content is derived from our own vacations. Those planning an epic vacation to San Diego can find tips f

or the best sightseeing tours, hotels, and attractions while locals also read to find things to do around town. And, finally, I love learning about products that make my life and perhaps yours easier. From camera gear to skincare, if your business has a truly helpful product or service, it’s my pleasure to share it.

05/28/2026

If you’re doing Balboa Park with kids, Panama 66 is an easy win for lunch.

It’s tucked into the sculpture garden at the San Diego Museum of Art, so you still get the Balboa Park vibe without committing to a long sit-down meal when everyone’s already melting down.

There’s outdoor seating, space for kids to wander a little, and simple food that works for picky eaters and adults alike. Plus, you’re close to the museums, gardens, fountains, and the Zoo.

My favorite move: do Balboa Park in the morning, grab lunch here, then decide whether the crew has enough energy left for one more stop—or if it’s time for the pool.

Easy, casual, and way less stressful than it could be.

A look inside one of the San Diego resorts I book most often: Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad.I’ve stayed here multiple ti...
05/22/2026

A look inside one of the San Diego resorts I book most often: Park Hyatt Aviara in Carlsbad.

I’ve stayed here multiple times over the years and have booked hundreds of guests into the property, so this review is a mix of my own experience, client feedback, and the little details I always look for when deciding who a hotel is best for.

One of the biggest reasons to book through me is access to Hyatt Privé or Virtuoso benefits, which can include daily breakfast for two, a resort credit, upgrade priority, and more depending on your dates.

Full Park Hyatt Aviara review is on the blog with room tips, family notes, spa details, and what to know before you book.

05/19/2026

Most LEGOLAND California tips stop at “arrive early.”

That’s not wrong, but these are the details I’d actually want families to know before they go.

And of course, don’t pay full price if you don’t have to. Check La Jolla Mom for my current LEGOLAND California ticket tips and verified discount options before you buy.

05/16/2026

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is the Big Island hotel we book most, and it’s easy to see why.

This is one of those resorts where the setting does a lot of the talking: lava rock, oceanfront paths, beautiful pools, quiet corners, and that calm, polished Four Seasons service people come back for.

It works beautifully for families, couples, and multigenerational trips, which is exactly why it’s such an easy one to recommend.

And the best part? When you book through La Jolla Mom, you can access exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits at no additional cost.

Head to the link in my bio for all the details!

05/12/2026

Just checked out of The Plaza Hotel and this place truly never gets old.

I’ve stayed here quite a few times now and it still has that feeling the second you walk through the doors. The lobby buzzes, people stop for photos, kids are fully locked into the Eloise fantasy, and somehow it still feels iconic instead of gimmicky.

A full review from my stay is coming soon, but for now: if you want a hotel that actually feels like New York, this is still one of them.

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of those places we keep coming back to, and every trip with kids teaches you one more...
05/08/2026

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of those places we keep coming back to, and every trip with kids teaches you one more little thing that makes the day smoother.

After years of going with my daughter, these are the Universal tips I’d give any family before they go, from Super Nintendo World timing to Toadstool Café reservations, Child Swap, snacks, lockers, and where to stay.

Comment “UNIVERSAL” and I’ll send you my buy one, get one ticket deal 🎟️

Summer in San Diego does not have to mean doing the same three things on repeat.I rounded up what’s new, what’s worth it...
05/06/2026

Summer in San Diego does not have to mean doing the same three things on repeat.

I rounded up what’s new, what’s worth it, what to skip, and the classics that still deserve a spot on your calendar.

Save this one!

Cinco de Mayo in San Diego doesn’t have to be just a margarita special.The holiday commemorates Mexico’s victory over Fr...
05/04/2026

Cinco de Mayo in San Diego doesn’t have to be just a margarita special.

The holiday commemorates Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It’s also often confused with Mexican Independence Day, which is actually September 16.

So yes, go get tacos. Enjoy the music. Book the dinner. If you want the day to feel a little more connected to San Diego, here are some ideas!

Mother’s Day with little kids needs a plan.Something special, but still stroller-friendly, snack-flexible, and not total...
05/01/2026

Mother’s Day with little kids needs a plan.

Something special, but still stroller-friendly, snack-flexible, and not totally ruined by a nap schedule.

We rounded up San Diego brunches, hotel options, family outings, spa days, and wellness events that actually work for families.

Save this for planning, then send it to the person making the reservation!

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San Diego, CA

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https://lajollamom.travelwits.com/

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