San Diego Through a Local's Eye: Janet Gilbert

Janet Gilbert is a school counselor, mom, and a local of San Diego for over 20 years. After earning her Bachelor’s degree at UCSD, followed by her Master’s in Counseling, she has focused on creating a sense of calm for children and adults alike.

As Editor-in-Chief of Relaxed San Diego Janet is pairing her counseling experience and love of San Diego culture to help others find those little relaxing moments both around town and in their homes. 

Here she shares the places around town that give her ALL the chill vibes.

Gem & Tonic 

Gem & Tonic is a holistic spa in Bay Park with independent health practitioners who focus on overall wellness and getting to the root cause of any concerns using a holistic approach. It truly is a sanctuary, and as a busy working mom I just love that I can stop in and see more than one practitioner at a time – chiropractor, acupuncture and massage are a few of my favorites (the trifecta). 

Coronado Brewing Company 

While Coronado Brewing Company originally opened its doors as a pub on Coronado Island, they have since expanded outside the island and my family loves visiting their Bay Park location. Not only do they have great food, beer, and a laid back atmosphere, they are a prime location for kids. Outdoor picnic-like seating, a kids menu, and a drink (or two) for mom and dad... it’s a relaxing evening out with just the right amount of effort.

The West Bean Coffee Roasters 

The West Bean Coffee Roasters is a local San Diego coffee shop that sources their coffee from green importers (which I love!) and let me tell you, it is DELICIOUS. I love to visit their Bay Ho Roastery for the relaxed atmosphere and a special glimpse into where the magic happens. 

Pigment

Pigment has become my not-so-guilty pleasure. With locations in Point Loma, North Park, and Del Mar you can rest assured you have one semi-close no matter where you are in San Diego. Many of their items come from local artisans so it’s the perfect place to find a gift – from home decor, wellness items, plants, and even a stylish children's section! I love bringing my kids to the “Make Your Own Terrarium” station.

Mission Beach Yoga

Mission Beach Yoga is a female owned and operated studio in Mission Beach with a mission to hold space for physical, mental, and spiritual transformation. They offer land, sea and air yoga – truly “yoga for all the elements.”

Petco Park for a Padres Game 

I grew up loving baseball, so while it may not sound relaxing to everyone, there is nothing more calming than taking in a game at the ballpark. San Diego’s Petco Park has the best field in all of major league baseball and it’s super kid friendly. (May or may not be biased here.) With a kid’s field in the outfield, a “park in the park” for kids to run around, and even the fanciest mothers nursing room I have ever seen, it’s a perfect outing for the whole family. If you have time, stop by Tin Fish Gaslamp before the game for some delicious tacos! 

Island Prime/C-Level 

For a fancy date night out I love Island Prime & C Level as my husband and I were married just down the street. The view is incredible and the food is equally as delicious. 

Filipis Pizza Grotto 

At Filipis Pizza Grotto chianti bottles hang from the ceiling, bringing back good memories from past visits. (I definitely had a few fun filled evenings here back in college!) A haven for adults who need a dash of Italy in their life, it’s also super kid friendly – sometimes the waitress will even come by and bring the kids dough to play with!