UCSD - University of California - San Diego

12/04/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 12/04/2025 11:04

From La Jolla With Love: The 2025 Triton Holiday Gift Guide

Published Date

December 04, 2025

Article Content

Alumni-founded brands, sustainably minded gifts and uniquely UC San Diego experiences come together in this year's Triton Holiday Gift Guide. Discover 11 ways to spread blue-and-gold cheer all season long:

For the Host With the Most

Brighten someone's table with a stunning arrangement from Native Poppy, the beloved San Diego flower shop founded by alumna Natalie Gill '10. Known for artistic designs and seasonal selections, Native Poppy offers a daily flower menu as well as beautiful holiday centerpieces and handcrafted wreaths. With shops in South Park and Solana Beach and local delivery available, it's an easy way to send a little joy - and a lot of style - this season.

For the Coffee Connoisseur

For the friend or family member who treats coffee like a love language, Wild Goose Coffee Roastershas you covered. Every bag, which is freshly roasted to order, supports local food banks - with more than 4 million pounds of food provided to date - thanks to alumnus and founder Nathan Westwick '97. Choose from comforting blends and adventurous single origins, or give a subscription that's tailored to their taste. Use code UCSD10 for 10% off sitewide, including home espresso equipment.

For the Lover of Experiences

Treat the culture seeker in your life to an unforgettable night out on campus. Start with dinner at Dora, the new coastal Italian restaurant in UC San Diego's Theatre District, where handmade pastas and seasonal dishes set the tone for an evening well spent. Then head steps away to the La Jolla Playhouse, home to groundbreaking productions and world-premiere performances that spark imagination and conversation.

Looking for more ways to curate memorable moments? ArtPoweroffers a dynamic lineup of unforgettable concerts and events - many at the stunning Epstein Family Amphitheater. Through Jan. 10, use code NEWYEAR26 for a 26% ticket discount on select eventsand craft a gift that celebrates time together, not just things.

For the Triton Who Loves a Throwback

Give the gift of campus history with the limited-edition Triton Legacy Collection, available now at the UC San Diego Bookstore. Inspired by a 1960s illustration of King Triton, this vintage-styled line features laid-back shirts, sweatshirts, hats and more in adult and youth sizes. Perfect for fans of classic Southern California style, each piece brings a bit of UC San Diego heritage into the everyday.

For the Aspiring Surfer

Founded by UC San Diego alumnae (and twin sisters) Izzy Tihanyi '89 and Coco Tihanyi '89, Surf Divahas been teaching the joy of surfing at La Jolla Shores for more than two decades. Whether your recipient is a total beginner or ready to level up their skills, Surf Diva's lessons, stand-up paddle sessions and expert instructors make the experience fun and confidence-boosting. And for younger ocean lovers, the shop even offers a Holiday Surf Campfor kids and teens over winter break - an unforgettable way to spend the season.

For the Sun Seeker

If you're shopping for someone who never leaves home without their shades, alumni-founded Knockarounddelivers style without the splurge. Created by Adam "Ace" Moyer, MFA '08, these San Diego-born sunglasses (and snow goggles!) pair durability with a laid-back California vibe. With tons of colors and frame styles - many $35 or under - it's easy to find the perfect pair for any adventure.

For the Future Triton

Give the young fan in your life a season of Triton spirit with a Junior Triton Clubmembership. Kids receive free admission to regular-season games, meet-and-greets with scholar-athletes, birthday perks, exclusive events and more. Two membership levels are available, including one that comes with a San Diego Zoo or Safari Park ticket.

For the Beauty Enthusiast

Freshen up their makeup bag with award-winning essentials from Tower 28, the clean beauty brand founded by alumna Amy Liu '99. Inspired by her own lifelong struggle with sensitive skin, Liu set out to create high-performance products that are safe, gentle and fun to use. From TikTok-famous SOS skincare to cushiony LipSoftie treatments, Tower 28 delivers dermatologist-approved staples that feel as good as they look. Even better? Every product comes in packaging made with at least 50% recycled plastic, making this a gift that's kind to both skin and the planet.

For the Crafty and Curious

If your gift recipient loves learning by doing, a class at the UC San Diego Craft Centeris a perfect match. Workshops span pottery, woodworking, stained glass, surfboard shaping, cooking, jewelry fabrication and more - like the popular two-day silver ring workshop where participants measure, solder, shape and polish their own custom jewelry. The center also offers custom experiences for groups large and small who want to sample a mix of crafts. Whether they're building confidence or leveling up existing skills, this is a gift that inspires creativity long after the class is over. Discounts are available for students and campus affiliates.

For the Wellness-Minded

Give the gift of stronger bones and cleaner ingredients with Seen Nutrition, co-founded by alumna Jennifer Han '13, PharmD '17. Their Calcium Chew Complete is formulated specifically for women and made from just four real foods: organic dates, milk minerals and protein, roasted California almonds and vitamin D-rich mushrooms. No synthetics, preservatives or added sugar, ever. It's a thoughtful pick for anyone committed to long-term health and a daily routine that actually tastes good.

For the Ocean Explorer

For a gift that truly makes waves, pair wonder with impact. At Scripps Institution of Oceanography, researchers continue to discover new deep-sea species - and you can be part of that discovery. When you support this effort by naming a newly identified organism, you're helping advance marine biodiversity research while giving someone a story unlike anything else.

If you're looking for something closer to shore, a Birch Aquarium membershipoffers a full year of ocean adventure, including the newly unveiled Adam R. Scripps Living Seas Gallery. For a limited time, receive $20 off a Coastal Explorer, Coastal Ambassador or Ocean Protector gift membership. This special offer is valid through Dec. 31 and can be redeemed online with code GIVEAGIFT or in person at the aquarium's Guest Services office.

UCSD - University of California - San Diego published this content on December 04, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on December 04, 2025 at 17:04 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]