01 Oct 2025

Sip & Stay on Shelter Island: Local Wine Bars & Nearby Wineries

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

If you’re a wine enthusiast, fall is the perfect time to experience San Diego’s local wineries and vineyards. The cooler weather and beautiful scenery make it an ideal season to sip, savor, and explore the region’s wine offerings.

Plus, we make it easy to enjoy a wine getaway with our special hotel package, which includes a bottle of wine for you to enjoy in your suite. You can also relax with a glass at our onsite restaurant overlooking the marina, or unwind outside by the firepits surrounded by our tropical gardens.

From wine bars and festivals to nearby vineyards, there’s no shortage of wine-focused activities to enjoy this fall. Let us be your guide to some of the top wine experiences near Humphreys Half Moon Inn.

Fall Wine Festivals in San Diego

San Diego Food & Wine Fest (SDFW) (5.5 Miles to Hotel)

Taking place November 7–9, this San Diego festival is as diverse as it is delicious. Enjoy an incredible lineup of cross-border chefs, winemakers, creators, innovators, and leaders during a weekend filled with tasting events, workshops, film screenings, and more. It’s the perfect itinerary for food and wine lovers planning a stay in San Diego this fall.

La Jolla Art & Wine Fest (12.1 Miles to Hotel)

This popular wine festival in San Diego offers a fun destination where wine enthusiasts and craft beer lovers unite. The wine fest on October 11-12 features over 35 international wineries, local craft breweries, and craft distilleries, as well as pet adoption stations, an all-star line-up of live entertainment and music, and unique artistic creations by artists from all over that range from painting and sculpture to woodwork and photography.

Del Mar Wine & Food Festival (22.3 Miles to Hotel)

Known as San Diego’s premier culinary event, the Del Mar Wine & Food Festival was founded by San Diego locals to celebrate the good life with the ultimate cookout. From celebrity chefs and local legends to the top craft brewers and local winemakers, this popular fall event is a great way to spend a fall weekend, from September 30 - October 4.

San Diego Wine Bars Near Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Carruth Cellars (2.0 Miles from Hotel)

Just a short distance from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, Carruth Cellars is located in nearby Liberty Station, one of San Diego’s most popular destinations. Known as a standout among Southern California wineries, Carruth Cellars invites guests to relax in its charming, modern wine garden while sampling some of the best wines near San Diego. Enjoy a bite at their wine garden cheese shop, and don’t miss happy hour Monday through Thursday with 30% off select beverages — a perfect way to unwind after a day exploring the city.

Postino in Little Italy (4.4 Miles from Hotel)

Located in Little Italy, Postino has quickly become one of San Diego’s go-to wine destinations. Known for its impressive selection and exclusive winemaker collaborations, the restaurant even offers bottles curated specifically for Postino. Alongside the wines, guests can enjoy a menu of soups and salads, paninis, tapas-style small plates, charcuterie boards, and indulgent desserts — making it the perfect spot to relax and savor great food and wine in the heart of the city.

Pali Wine Co. (4.5 Miles from Hotel)

Located in the heart of Little Italy, this family-owned winery is one of San Diego’s most popular urban wine destinations. Specializing in site-specific, critically acclaimed Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays, the winery pairs its exceptional wines with a menu of small plates. Guests can also enjoy customized guided tours, offering a full experience of one of Southern California’s standout urban wineries.

Cellar Hand (7.8 Miles from Hotel)

Located in nearby Hillcrest, Cellar Hand is a popular Southern California winery dedicated to sustainability, craftsmanship, and community. An extension of the founder’s Pali Wine Co., Cellar Hand offers an extensive wine list while highlighting connections with local artisans, farmers, fishers, and stewards. Guests can savor wines that truly capture the essence of California’s local bounty.

The Rose Wine Bar (8.4 Miles from Hotel)

This vibrant social winery is the perfect place for brunch, lunch, or simply enjoying a glass or bottle of wine. The Rose Wine Bar features a “sunset-inspired” wine list with reds, whites, pinks, ambers, and sparkling natural wines. Pair your favorite pour with their fresh, fruit- and vegetable-forward dishes — making it an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch date or a fun girls’ night out.

LJ Crafted Wines (9.0 Miles from Hotel)

LJ Crafted Wines is a unique place where you can support a low-waste, small-batch winery by enjoying your wine right out of the barrel! It’s Earth-friendly and fun when your favorite chardonnay or cab straight pours from the oak wine barrel! Served by the glass in the tasting room or taken home in reusable wine “growlers,” LJ Crafted Wines is one of the most unique wineries near San Diego that you won’t want to miss.

Finca (10.3 Miles from Hotel)

Finca is a San Diego neighborhood wine bar with good food and a welcoming atmosphere. Located in North Park, Finca is brought to you by three of the top restaurateurs in San Diego. They specialize in wines from Spain and small California growers and also offer an outstanding yellowtail crudo and patatas bravas. Great place for Happy Hour, which starts each day at 6pm.

Wineries Near Your Suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn

There are a variety of wineries near San Diego, including those in North County and Temecula. Here are some local favorites near Humphreys Half Moon Inn.

North County Wineries (Approximately 30 Miles from Hotel)

Temecula Wineries (60+ Miles from Hotel – Perfect for a Daytrip from San Diego)

Are You Ready to Sip and Stay Near San Diego’s Wine Scene?

Plan your stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn to be close to the best Southern California wineries, wine bars, and wine festivals in San Diego. Our waterfront, resort-style hotel offers everything you need for the perfect fall wine getaway. From acclaimed local wineries to charming San Diego wine bars, you’ll enjoy exceptional wine lists, delicious dining, and guided tours of unique vineyards — all just a short distance from our hotel. Make sure to check out our special offers and packages to book your perfect fall getaway to America's Finest City today!

11 Jul 2025

The Ultimate Vacation Playlist

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Just about everyone loves music, has a favorite band, and understands how the perfect song at just the right time can make all the difference in that friends’ road trip, waterside pool and beach day, or a romantic evening bonfire by the beach.

There’s truly nothing like a live concert or hearing your favorite beach songs to put an instant smile on your face and transform the event into something magical. And if you’re a music fan, Humphreys Half Moon Inn is definitely the best place to stay to hear your favorite beach songs artists live in concert at our amazing onsite waterfront venue!

We invite you to check out these creative beach music playlists that set the tune for a beach getaway in San Diego. Here are some fun ways to enjoy live music in San Diego, as well as a nod to some of our favorite bands and artists who definitely belong on our favorite beach music playlist!

Pick the Perfect Beach Music Playlist or Create Your Own for Your San Diego Vacation

From upbeat poolside tracks and tropical beach songs to romantic evening tunes and all-time dance favorites – there is a perfect playlist for every event, occasion, and activity of your San Diego vacation. Check out Spotify or Apple Music to download or create your own vacation playlist to keep you jamming and in a good mood during your adventures in San Diego.

Best Beach Songs and Beach Music Playlist for Your San Diego Vacation

Pool and Beach Day Vibes from Apple Music and Spotify – If you’re looking for the perfect tunes for a relaxing day at our sparkling onsite pool or a day at one of our amazing local beaches, check out these beach music playlists that give off summer fun in the sun beach vibes for a great day of music in the sunny California coast. These beach songs and upbeat tunes go great with a day in paradise and a tropical craft cocktail while soaking in the sun and vibrant atmosphere in San Diego!

Beach Bonfire Vibes from Apple Music and Spotify – If your mood is an amazing beach sunset with an evening of chilling by the water with a roaring beach bonfire, these playlists have the perfect mix of pop and beach music for a memorable night of ocean breezes and a cozy bonfire along the California shore.

A Walk on the Beach Vibes from Apple Music and Spotify – Nothing goes better with a long walk on the beach than your favorite someone and an amazing playlist of your favorite beach songs. Let the music move you and set the mood as you experience a romantic walk on one of the best beaches in San Diego!

Best Beach Playlist of All Time from Apple Music and Spotify – There are typical beach music playlists, then there are amazing beach music playlists…and these two amazing beach music playlists are filled with all the most popular beach songs from the artists you love most. Grab your shades, your favorite frozen concoction, and prepare to jam with these upbeat beach tune faves.

See a Concert in San Diego

If you’re looking for live music in San Diego, you’re definitely in the right place at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. We have not one, but two music venues onsite at the hotel that you don’t want to miss! Everyone loves the live music venues at Humphreys including Stevie Wonder, Ringo Starr, Willie Nelson, Jimmy Buffett, ZZ Top, Bob Dylan, and more, who have all graced the stage at Humphreys in San Diego with their presence!

Humphreys Concerts by the bay – Welcome to the best live music in San Diego! The Summer Concert Series at Humphreys Concerts by the bay is the absolute best! If you want to see live music and all your favorite singers and bands, Humphreys is the place to be for live music in SoCal. Enjoy one of these upcoming concerts in San Diego at this popular waterfront venue:

David Lee Roth
Jesse McCartney
Keb’ Mo’
Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons
Jackson Brown
Grand Funk Railroad
The Temptations
Air Supply

…and more!

Check out the summer concert schedule here and be sure to purchase tickets in advance to make sure you get to see your favorite!

Humphreys Backstage LIVE – Listen to live bands at our intimate music lounge, Backstage LIVE. Enjoy unbeatable happy hours, stunning waterfront views, and nightly entertainment featuring SoCal’s top dance, R&B, and jazz bands. Choose from shareable appetizers and creative small plates that go well with handcrafted cocktails at this vibrant music venue where you can catch a show or just soak in the coastal vibe for a memorable night of music in San Diego.

A Fun Nod to Some of Our Favorite Bands, Singers, and Songs at Humphreys

When you check out the cocktail menu at Humphreys Backstage LIVE, these are some of the fun handcrafted cocktails that pay homage to some of our favorite entertainers.

Bad Bunny - Pussers rum | Captain Morgan’s Rum | coconut pineapple | Frangelico
Blackberry Smoke - La Vida Mezcal tequila | freshly made spicy blackberry purée | lime sour | triple sec | tajin rim
Smoke on the Water - Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon | pomegranate juice | lime juice | mint
Red, Red Wine Sangria - red wine | brandy | pomegranate juice | fresh fruit

Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn is the Place to be for Music Lovers in San Diego

Make plans for an incredible weekend of live music in San Diego at one of the amazing venues at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. Be close to all the exciting opportunities to hear your favorite musicians, singers, and bands at our waterside music venues in San Diego.

Escape to Humphreys Half Moon Inn for a fun experience in our laid-back resort-style hotel. Lounge poolside, sip cocktails at the Oasis Pool Bar, dance the night away at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise on Shelter Island. Lush landscaping, tiki torches and fire pits adorn the grounds creating a memorable island escape perfect for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Book here for your San Diego music escape today!

01 Apr 2024

Guide To The Best San Diego Food Halls & Farmers Markets

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Southern California is known for many amazing things and food is definitely at the top of the list for locals and visitors to the area. Whether you are looking for fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to make your favorite dish or want something delicious that has already been expertly prepared, foodies and fresh market fans will love the offerings of the local San Diego food halls and San Diego farmers markets. Don’t miss the chance to experience the culture of the city, take in the unique dining opportunities, and explore your options for creative goods offered at these popular establishments during your stay here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego. Here are a few of the most popular San Diego farmers markets and food halls in the area to visit.

Popular San Diego Food Halls

If you’re looking to experience the culture of San Diego, a local food hall is a great way to get a taste of the amazing cuisine and meet some of the locals who prepare it. Choose from a variety of different dining options in one central location, so you can try a little bit of everything. A visit to a San Diego food hall is sure to please even the most finicky eaters and entertain everyone with the unique ambiance and local fare.

Liberty Public Market (2.4 miles)

Make sure to visit Liberty Public Market, the culinary epicenter nestled within the historic confines of San Diego’s Liberty Station. This food hall offers a diverse array of culinary experiences to tantalize every taste bud. From artisanal cheese shops and freshly baked pastries to savory barbecue and exotic international fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Sip on locally roasted coffee or indulge in a craft cocktail as you wander through this vibrant marketplace, soaking in the lively atmosphere and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a delicious bite, Liberty Public Market promises an unforgettable culinary adventure.

Old Town Market (3.9 miles)

Step into San Diego’s Old Town Market Food Hall and embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Southern California. Nestled in the heart of historic Old Town, this bustling food hall captures the essence of the region’s rich culinary heritage. From sizzling street tacos and mouthwatering burritos to freshly made ceviche and indulgent churros, every corner offers a taste sensation to delight every palate. With its charming ambiance and diverse array of vendors, the Old Town Market Food Hall is a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of San Diego’s culinary soul.

Little Italy Food Hall (4.6 miles)

All the amazing tastes and the unique culture of Italy are just 4.9 miles away from your suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego at the Little Italy Food Hall. Recently named as one of the Top 10 Food Halls in the United States by USA Today, this popular San Diego food hall offers a superb taste of Italy in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy community. Located at the Piazza Della Famiglia, be prepared to be wowed by eight food stations offering everything including authentic pizza, fusion tacos, sushi bowls, Chinese noodles, Maine lobster, a donut cart, and full bar service for guests with a beautiful view of the fountain in the Piazza.

(Photo: @eatsamburgers)

Popular San Diego Farmers Markets

From local art and creative crafts to amazing California produce and flowers, you might be surprised at all the things you can find at a San Diego farmers market. Here are some of the most popular local markets that are near Humphreys Half Moon Inn for you to explore during your stay.

Ocean Beach Farmers Market (3.1 miles)

Open each Wednesday from 4-8pm, the Ocean Beach Farmers Market is the place for foodies who are looking for unique, local, delicious cuisine. Located just 3.1 miles from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, immerse yourself in a unique shopping experience with over 100 vendors. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market includes goods from certified farmers, chefs, artisans, and more. This eclectic San Diego farmers market offers baked bread and desserts, flowers and plants, local fruits and vegetables, and even hot-prepared meals. Hotel guests will enjoy this unique experience in a fun, beachside community.

(Photo: @aishamaephoto)

Little Italy Mercato (4.5 miles)

The Little Italy Mercato sounds like a food lover’s paradise! With over 200 vendors offering a diverse range of fresh produce and artisanal goods, it’s no wonder it’s such a celebrated market. The fact that it’s situated in Little Italy, known for its culinary excellence, speaks volumes about the quality you can expect there. From freshly baked bread to artisanal cheeses, candies, honey, and farm-fresh eggs, it seems like there’s something to delight every palate. It must be a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, perfect for exploring and discovering new flavors.

Saturdays, 8am–2pm

(Photo: @littleitalymercato)

Pacific Beach Farmers Market (7.4 miles)

Located just 7.4 miles from Humphreys Half Moon Inn, the Pacific Beach Farmers Market is open every Tuesday from 2-7pm. This popular seaside market offers everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce, flowers, and more. Visitors will also find gourmet dining opportunities as well as beautiful, handcrafted pieces by local artisans.

Hillcrest Farmers Market (7.6 miles)

The perfect way to spend a Sunday in San Diego, the Hillcrest Farmers Market is San Diego’s original and largest farmers market. Less than 7 miles from your room here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, there are over 175 vendors that offer everything from locally grown produce and flowers to unique gifts, clothing, arts and crafts, and more! This is a must-visit during your time in San Diego, as this popular farmers market hosts around 10,000 people each week!

Explore the San Diego Farmers Markets and Food Halls During Your Stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Are you ready to explore the food halls and farmers markets in San Diego for a delicious cultural experience you won’t soon forget? Book your accommodations now at Humphreys Half Moon Inn to be close to all the fun! Hotel guests can also enjoy the proximity to some of the most popular places to visit in San Diego including SeaWorld San Diego, Legoland California, the San Diego Zoo, and more. In addition, enjoy top-notch onsite amenities during your stay including our waterfront restaurant and lounge, outdoor concerts, tropical pool and jacuzzi, fitness center, bayfront location with a private marina, and so much more!

01 Aug 2021

Best Outdoor Music Venues In San Diego

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

There’s just nothing like a live performance in the great outdoors. The energy, the excitement, and the canopy of stars all add up to a beautiful night out. And thanks to San Diego’s gorgeous weather all year-round, outdoor concerts are regular occurrences here (especially at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, where we feature our own annual concert series, returning next month). If you’ve been eager to get back to checking out your favorite artists in open-air settings, take a look at our guide to the best San Diego outdoor music venues.

Waterfront Park (4.3 miles)

(Photo: @freethefiremed)

San Diego’s Waterfront Park is a welcoming patch of green space that hugs the eastern shore of North San Diego Bay. The park includes an interactive splash fountain, kids’ play zone, and multiple picnic areas. But it’s also home to a lively summer concert series that’s always well-attended. Upcoming events include performances by Jon Pardi, Cloonee, Mitchell Tenpenny, Matt Stell, ZHU, and Kölsch. Bring a blanket, bring a picnic, and soak up some great music.

1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101

Petco Park (5.9 miles)

(Photo: @petcopark)

The East Village’s Petco Park is more than just the proud home of the MLB’s San Diego Padres. In the grand tradition of stadium rock, the ballpark also hosts several live performance events every year, including music, comedy and other touring extravaganzas. This fall, be sure to look out for shows like Thievery Corporation, the Hella Mega Tour (featuring Green Day, Fall Out Boy and Weezer), Taking Back Sunday (w/Jimmy Eat World), Dropkick Murphys, and Rancid.

100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

Spreckels Organ Pavilion (5.7 miles)

(Photo: @spreckelsorgan)

In 1915, the brothers John and Adolph Spreckels gifted the city of San Diego a pipe organ of such impressive proportions that the city immediately built the eponymous venue to house the instrument, and present concerts to the public. More than a century later, and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion still delights countless visitors every year with rousing concerts featuring imaginative arrangements of pops standards, and contemporary hits. Admission is always free.

2125 Pan American Rd E, San Diego, CA 92101

Adams Avenue Street Fair (9.3 miles)

Rather than being a regular venue, the Adams Avenue Street Fair is an annual event that brings some of the region’s most renowned performers to entertain crowds in a carnival-like atmosphere. The 2021 Fair takes place September 18th and 19th, and will host more than 100 acts over seven stages. Visitors can also check out carnival rides, craft beer tastings, more than 300 vendor kiosks selling arts, crafts, specialty food and more.

3366 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116

Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre (12.1 miles)

(Photo: @calcoastcuoad)

This historic, 4000-plus seat outdoor amphitheatre on the campus of San Diego State University has been entertaining audiences since its completion in 1941. As one of the city’s most beloved venues, countless visitors have flocked to the events held here ever since. Look for upcoming performances from Cypress Hill, Counting Crows, John Legend, Modest Mouse, Brett Young, Van Morrison, TLC, Willie Nelson, Primus, Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys and Matchbox 20.

5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA 92182

Humphreys Concerts by the Bay (just steps away!)

(Photo @shinyidol)

Our Own Humphreys Concerts By The Bay performance series is back, and better than ever this fall. Humphreys’ 1,400-seat open-air venue is one of the area’s most-renowned stages. It’s location right next to the waters of the bay make for a truly lovely setting — as well as affording local boaters a chance to float alongside the seating area, and take in a show from their craft. This fall’s series presents shows from world-famous artists like Cheap Trick, Dave Koz, Tower of Power, Rufus Wainwright, Aimee Mann, Chicago, Judy Collins, Michael Franti & Spearhead, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Chris Isaak, Three Dog Night, Air Supply and America. Tickets and our full schedule are available at our dedicated Humphreys Concerts site.

2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

Humphreys Backstage Live

In addition, Humphreys Backstage Live is also open once again. Our on-site lounge-style music venue hosts live music seven days a week in a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll want to take a look at our entertainment calendar, and join us for some fantastic performances.

2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

See you at the stage!

01 Mar 2021

Famous San Diego Bands and Where They Got Their Start

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

When you think of American cities where today’s leading names in music made it big, you may think of New York and L.A. In fact, some of the biggest bands and musicians of the last 50 years launched their careers right here in San Diego — including the five examples below.

Stone Temple Pilots

The grunge and alt-rock band Stone Temple Pilots was formed in San Diego, when members Scott Weiland and Robert DeLeo discovered that they were dating the same San Diego woman (and ended up rooming together in her apartment). Back when the band was initially known as Mighty Joe Young, it also performed throughout the San Diego area and gained a local fan base from 1987 to 1990.

Blink-182

The members of Blink-182 first came together in the San Diego suburb of Poway, where they had gone to high school. They were heavily inspired by the punk and skating scene in surrounding Southern California and played at local clubs such as Soma San Diego.

Jewel

Jewel moved to San Diego after graduating from Michigan’s Interlochen Arts Academy, frequently singing at SoCal venues such as the Innerchange Cafe and Java Joe’s, where she worked as a barista. It was in San Diego that she met future co-writer Steve Poltz, sang the National Anthem before Super Bowl XXXII, and ultimately performed at Live at our own Humphreys Concerts By the Bay.

Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz came to San Diego on a road trip after high school, back in 1999. He met band member Toca Rivera and performed as a part of a trio for three years in Ocean Beach, then kicked off a later tour at the San Diego Music Awards, held at our very own Humphreys Concerts by the Bay!

Switchfoot

Alt-rock and Christian-music band Switchfoot formed in San Diego in 1996. They later recorded a video here that ultimately went platinum and have been regularly involved in the local music and charity scene ever since.

Our 2020 concert season is already in full swing at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay. See the best of San Diego entertainment at our scenic outdoor concert venue on the marina. Find the full schedule of upcoming performances on our website.