A Bookish Afternoon in San Diego: Writing and Book Shopping
San Diego is the perfect city for a quiet, relaxing afternoon filled with writing, books, and great coffee. During a recent visit, I spent my day exploring cozy coffee shops and independent bookstores, each offering a unique experience. If you’re a book lover or just enjoy a peaceful afternoon surrounded by stories and caffeine, here’s how my day unfolded at Selva Coffee House, Meet Cute, and La Playa Books.
First Stop: Selva Coffee House
I began my afternoon at Selva Coffee House, a peaceful oasis perfect for getting some writing done. Tucked away in San Diego, this coffee shop has a welcoming, jungle-themed décor that instantly put me at ease. I ordered a refreshing iced latte—it was a hot day, so something cold was a must. With my drink in hand, I found a comfortable corner with plenty of natural light, set up my notebook, and got to work.
There’s something incredibly inspiring about writing in a coffee shop. The steady hum of conversation, the smell of freshly brewed coffee, and the relaxed atmosphere all come together to create the perfect setting for creativity. At Selva, I managed to get lost in my writing for a couple of hours, with breaks to sip my iced latte and people-watch.
Second Stop: Meet Cute
After a productive writing session, it was time to indulge in some book shopping. I headed over to Meet Cute, an adorable romance-focused bookstore. If you’re a fan of love stories, this is a must-visit. The shelves are packed with contemporary romance, historical love stories, and everything in between. The vibe was cozy and intimate, making it easy to get lost browsing the various titles.
I spent time exploring the different genres within romance and picked up a few books that caught my eye. What made Meet Cute special was not just the selection, but the personal touches, like staff recommendations and author-signed books. It’s the perfect place to find your next swoon-worthy read or discover a new favorite author.
Final Stop: La Playa Books
To finish off my bookish afternoon, I made my way to La Playa Books, a charming indie bookstore that offers both new and used books. This shop has a welcoming community feel, with knowledgeable staff and shelves filled with books in every genre. Whether you're into fiction, non-fiction, or local authors, there’s something here for everyone.
I spent some time browsing and chatting with the staff, who recommended a few titles. Before leaving, I found a quiet spot in the store to start one of my new books. La Playa Books has that rare mix of character and charm that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden treasure.
A Perfect Afternoon in San Diego
My afternoon in San Diego, spent writing and book shopping, was the perfect blend of productivity and relaxation. Starting with a creative burst at Selva Coffee House, indulging in romantic reads at Meet Cute, and finishing with a literary adventure at La Playa Books, I couldn’t have asked for a better day. If you find yourself in San Diego, I highly recommend spending an afternoon exploring these bookish gems—whether you’re there to write, read, or just soak in the atmosphere, they’re sure to inspire.