San Diego Through a Local's Eye: 91X's Hilary Doneux
Chances are you already know Hilary Doneux’s voice. She’s been on San Diego’s airwaves for over 25 years!
You can currently hear her from 10am-3pm, Monday through Friday on 91X (where she’s also the Music Director).
A boss lady in every sense, she’s also mom to Fin (a high schooler), stepmom to Seth and Jack (both in college), dog mom to David Lee Roth (a lab/shepherd mix), and wife to 4th generation PB local Chris Doneux.
We caught up with the San Diego radio icon and asked her to share her favorite ways and places to chill in San Diego…
The Open Air Theater at SDSU
Summertime shows here are my favorite, because the sound is good, you really feel tucked in, and the trees surrounding it always make the air smell so good.
Wayfarer Bread
Wayfarer in Bird Rock makes the most delicious bread & pastries. Even waiting in the ever-present line feels peaceful to me; get the Kouign-amman if you go, it’s unbelievable!
Song Exploder
Usually only about 20 minutes per podcast, Song Exploder is my go-to when I need a mental break. Artists give the back-story behind one of their songs, explaining what went into the writing and recording of it. The Fleetwood Mac “Go Your Own Way” episode made me cry!
Sunsets and Sunrises
My daughter and I love to walk our dog, Dave, at Sunset Cliffs. It’s beautiful at sunset, of course, but sunrise is our favorite time to go — it’s just so peaceful! We usually drive over Hill and Talbot Streets to find the rising sun on the bay side before we head home. We also love to watch the sunsets in Cardiff, grab takeout at Surf Brothers Teriyaki and park at the top of the field above Swami’s.
Fathom Bistro, Bait, and Tackle
Also in the Shelter Island Area is one of my husband and my favorite places to get a beer and a snack, a tiny spot on the pier just south of Humphrey’s called Fathom Bistro, Bait, and Tackle. They have a great beer selection on draft (ask owner Dennis about his connection to Russian River Brewing if you get the chance)! FUN FACT: There really is a bait and tackle shop on the other side of the outdoor tables.
Local Beer
I love local breweries, and we’re lucky to have so many great ones in San Diego. Unpretentious vibes, great beer, good food – what’s not to love? Ballast Point in Little Italy, Societe in Kearny Mesa, Bayside Brewing (head upstairs before a Padres game), and Mcilhenney in Alpine are some of our favorites.
Bird’s Surf Shed
Bird’s Surf Shed is a shop, temple, and surfboard library all in one. If you’re lucky enough to catch Bird or his son Jackson when you walk in, you’re in for a treat. They are the nicest, most knowledgable, most generous San Diegans and will surely share the stoke! It’s one of my favorite places to take surfers from out of town.