Want to know where the locals love to hang out? We asked Camila Badaro, Ocean Beach resident, Brazilian transplant and professional food, product and lifestyle photographer.
(A FEW OF) CAMILA’S PICKS
Name
Camila Badaro
Hometown
I am originally from Bahia-Brazil, based in San Diego for 21 years (half of my life, do the math to reveal my age lol 😉
Current Neighborhood
I live and love Ocean Beach.
Why do you love San Diego?
I love San Diego weather and beach lifestyle. Coming from Brazil I really appreciate how safe we can raise our kids.
What’s a perfect Saturday in San Diego to you?
A perfect Saturday starts at my local gym @synergy180 or taking a yoga class at Elka Yoga and Wellness then a walk or bike to the beach to meet my boys surfing. Jump in the ocean, play “fresco ball” (racket ball). Then grab a bite to eat around town or barbecue with friends, family, neighbors…
When beach is not an option we also love to spend time in nature, so I am always looking for a good hiking trail, lake…specially during winter times.
What are your favorite things to do when family or friends visit from out of town?
I love taking them for a drive up and down the 101 from Oceanside to Ocean Beach.
Stopping at my favorite points:
- Oceanside Pier
- Carlsbad Village and Outlet (specially when is Spring Season and the Flower Fields are open, it’s a must)
- Encinitas (D street and Moonlight Beach, also love the restaurants and local shops around town)
- Solana Beach Design District (Cedros) is a great place to get inspired. Solana also has the Belly Up, my favorite music venue.
- Torrey Pines is a beautiful and relatively quick hike to do with all ages.
- La Jolla Shores, Cove snorkeling and kayaking is super fun, also Children’s pool to watch the seals. Love to watch the sunset and surf at Windansea beach.
- PB Pier, have and drink and appetizers at Tower 21 while watching people at Boardwalk is always fun. Also great place at Sunset.
- Belmont park is a great option for all ages. We love Mini Golfing.
Favorite date night restaurant?
My new favorite Date Night Restaurant is Cesarina in Point Loma
Favorite family-friendly restaurant?
Blue Water Grill in Ocean Beach, Belching Beaver in Vista has an awesome backyard with bonfires and plenty of space and activities for the kiddos.
Current Gig(s)
Food, Product and Lifestyle photographer
Tell us about why you started your business
My background is Graphic Design. I earned my Associate’s at Platt College-San Diego. After a few of years working with Graphic Design and traveling the world as an International Tour Manager for a Brazilian singer, I chose to come back to San Diego, start a family. I have one beautiful 10 year old son named Benton.
Photography has always been my passion. I bought my first DSLR camera in 2013, and started to take photography classes. Photos of my friends and family followed. Then one day I came across an entry level food photography opportunity with a company from the East Coast that builds websites and does marketing for restaurants and bars. Since I love food (cook and eat) I decided to take the chance. From entry level to full time. Over the last 4 years I have shot over 350 restaurants in San Diego County, now expanding to LA, Mexico and Brazil. I absolutely love what I do.
