I live in San Diego--wouldn't recommend (culture is too diluted). I have stayed with family in Eureka, SLO, and SF--and they are much better choices than southe

I live in San Diego--wouldn't recommend (culture is too diluted). I have stayed with family in Eureka, SLO, and SF--and they are much better choices than southern california. Find a place where the air is breathable, the people are inspiring, and where there are few distractions. This is why I would recommend SLO because it's big enough to be hospitable but small enough to keep you focused (has a moderate climate imo).