When you’re living in Côta Vera, it’s not just the community that’s buzzing with growth and excitement—the entire surrounding city is awash in vivid color. Open possibilities are at every turn in Chula Vista and Otay Ranch. From original art and woodworking to trendy breweries and eats to gorgeous nature and hiking trails, there’s something for every kind of South San Diego explorer. Let’s dive into what your weekends could look like in the new hot spot to call home.
Art & Makers
Changemakers and craft connoisseurs will feel right at home on Third Ave in downtown Chula Vista. Murals and street art immediately radiate that artsy vibe so many love about urban living. But if you look even closer, you’ll find some hidden gems that are sure to blow you away. Here are some of our favorites:
Your eyes and ears are in for a treat at Rich Walker’s art gallery located right in the center of Third Ave. Abstract original paintings make the walls, ceiling, floor and everything in between sing with color. Pieces like these don’t just make a statement, they tell a story. As the evening hours arrive, this art gallery turns into the coolest music venue you’ve ever seen. Supporting local art has never been a more exciting experience than it is at Art on Third. Click here to learn more about concert dates and see original work by Rich.
Unique décor is always a treasure to have in your home, especially when it’s from a sustainable company located right here in your own neighborhood. Urban Timber on Third Ave in Chula Vista is filled with unforgettable finds and one-of-a-kind furnishings. All the wood they source is local, and they’ll craft it into anything you can dream up. Stop by in person or visit their site here to learn more about what they offer and how they work to make the environment a friendlier place.
Food & Eateries
There is so much local flavor in the Chula Vista and Otay Ranch area. No matter what you’re craving, there’s something that will hit the spot in just the right way. Feast your eyes on these mouthwatering options:
If you love locally soured, organic ingredients, you’re gonna be a regular at Farmer’s Table in no time. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this Sicilian inspired eatery touts long standing family recipes and an imported Stefano Ferrara pizza oven sure to impress even the most discerning wood-fired pizza fan. Pizza isn’t the only thing Farmer’s Table has perfected though. They have everything from organic eggs to vibrant vegetables to beautiful cuts of meat. Check out their website to see more about what you can expect from a meal at Farmer’s Table.
Doing good has never tasted so good. The East Lake Farmer’s Market is open every Saturday morning from 9am to 2pm and filled with so many local gems. Stock up on fresh produce. Treat your tastebuds to something completely new and inspiring. Discover the perfect handmade gift for your loved ones. You can do it all while supporting the community and those who make it such an amazing place to be. Click here to see all the vendors you’ll find at East Lake Farmer’s Market.
Breweries
Is a San Diego neighborhood really a San Diego neighborhood without a couple of craft breweries? We’d say definitely no. Luckily, Chula Vista and Otay Ranch are in no short supply of hoptastic breweries to explore. Here’s our must-sip list:
Pizza and beer. There is no better combination known to man. At Groundswell you’ll find a delicious menu of craft brews and hard seltzers accompanied by a list of fantastic pizza by the slice. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to kick back and spend an entire afternoon soaking up the atmosphere. Sunny days are well spent on the colorful back patio, and we’d argue that any day is well spent with pizza and beer. Click here to see what we mean.
This isn’t your everyday brewery. At Novo Brazilian Brewing, you get to sip on a huge variety of house brewed beer and hard kombucha while watching your favorite teams on the massive screens displayed throughout the restaurant. Even if you’re not a sports fan, the space is just as vibrant and energetic as the country it’s inspired after. Everywhere you look at Novo you’ll find interesting murals, creative writing and wonder waiting to be taken in. Take a look for yourself and start planning your next game day a little differently.
Nature & Recreation
Outdoor fun comes naturally in a place like Otay Ranch. Whether you’re into hiking, biking and running. Or maybe you’re more of a water bug that prefers boating, fishing and surfing. With over 60 parks and nearly 560 acres of park land, there’s something waiting for you right outside your door.
Explore miles and miles of beautiful lakeside trails only 10 minutes from Cota Vera. The views are breathtaking and the opportunity for connection is endless. You can even take the boat out on the weekend and cast a line or two with friends and family.
Just a few miles west you’ll find the soft sands and rockin waves of Imperial Beach. Popular for both surf and soaking in some rays, this is the perfect place for a family beach day.
200-acres of unbridled freedom. Otay River Valley is a massive park featuring 8 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trials amid salt ponds and rolling hills.
Glamping at its finest. Sun RV Resorts is South San Diego’s premiere RV and cabin rental destination. Enjoy resort amenities and upscale vacation rentals right on the water. Perfect for a family reunion with out-of-town guests or even a little impromptu staycation. Click here for more details.
This is only the beginning of what’s waiting to be discovered in Chula Vista and Otay Ranch. Follow our social channels to stay updated on new happenings in the area and in the meantime, come down and check out what all the buzz is about. You might be surprised by how quickly you’ll want to come back.
