Visit San Diego, call a public information line or look at its official website and it is hard to avoid its official slogan: “America’s finest city” is a proud boast but one that local officials say is rooted in reality. With miles of beautiful coastline, a temperate climate and a range of popular tourist attractions such as its zoo and the Sea World water park, the city at California’s south-west tip has become known for its high standard of living.

It has also earned a growing reputation as a venue for world-class sports events, having hosted the Super Bowl three times, most recently in 2003. However, San Diego is facing its sternest test as host of the 108th US Open golf championship.