travel to san diego california

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Plan Your Visit to San Diego

San Diego visitors generally fall into three categories. Some prefer to “wing it” and figure out what they’ll do only after arriving. Others have a couple of “must see and do” activities but leave time to explore and experience new things. The final group is those who plan details down to the last minute of every day.

Here are some other ideas to help you get the most out of your stay.  How deep you go on planning your visit after we tell you about them is entirely up to you!

We assume you’re already familiar with the biggest attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Zoo Safari Park, Sea World, LEGOLAND,  the USS Midway Museum, and others.  But San Diego is much more than that.  

Explore San Diego’s Neighborhoods.  Unlike many urban destinations, San Diego County spreads far and wide, covering more than 4,200 square miles.  That makes for an incredibly rich and diverse experience when visiting individual neighborhoods.  Beach close communities are hopping year-round, while small gems like South Park adjacent to Balboa Park are more earthy, with lots of unique shopping experiences.  

La Jolla is among the most beautiful of all communities, with proximity to the coast and world-class shopping and dining.  The Gaslamp District is the heart and soul of San Diego nightlife, and is easy walking distance to PETCO Park and the waterfront.   

Get Into the Outdoor Culture.  San Diego’s perfect weather, miles and miles of beaches,  protected bays, and unlimited recreation opportunities compel you to catch some sunshine and fresh air when you’re in town.  Swimming, surfing, kayaking, sunbathing, biking, jogging, hiking, boating, golfing, and dozens of other activities are easy and fun to enjoy.

Dine on World Class Cuisine.  San Diego is a melting pot of many cultures, and that continues to shape dining experiences imported from throughout the world.  You can opt for traditional fare or seek out more exotic ethnic foods at hundreds of locations.  Whether you’re heading to Little Italy for spaghetti and meatballs or to the beach for high-end seafood or killer fish tacos, San Diego is a laid-back destination, so you don’t have to worry much about “dressing for dinner.”  

Adults also have a dazzling array of craft beers and local wines you can pair with your meal, or you can go straight to the source with tours at local breweries and nearby vineyards.      

San Diego   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Billy_Dally | Getty Images

Why Go To San Diego

Consistently sunny weather and 70 miles of magnificent coastline are what draw active types and sun seekers alike to San Diego throughout the year: that and the mouthwatering Mexican cuisine, thriving nightlife and one of the country's favorite zoos . And then there are the beaches : Retreat to Mission Beach to catch a wave, to La Jolla to soak up the sun and to Coronado for a leisurely seaside stroll. What's more, San Diego offers some of the best California tours , including whale watching tours , boat tours and fishing charters . When you're ready to ditch your flip-flops and board shorts for more formal attire, you'll find pockets of vivacious nightlife throughout, especially near the historical Gaslamp Quarter .

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• # 3 in Best Summer Vacations in the USA for 2024
• # 4 in Best Spring Break Destinations for Families
• # 4 in Best U.S. Cities to Visit

See All 17 Rankings

Best of San Diego

Best hotels in san diego.

• # 1 in Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa
• # 2 in Pendry San Diego
• # 3 in Fairmont Grand Del Mar

Best Things to Do in San Diego

• # 1 in Balboa Park
• # 2 in USS Midway Museum
• # 3 in San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit San Diego are March through May and September through November. You can find some great deals on travel rates during the low seasons in comparison to the peak summer season. However, because of the warm weather, which averages about 70 degrees year-round, there's never really a terrible time to visit. But that doesn't necessarily mean sunny days abound as well. During the months of May and June, overcast days occur often, so much so that locals designate the months as "May Gray" and "June Gloom." And when it comes to rain, San Diego sees the most rainfall during the winter months, so a day at the beach is out of the question during this time (not to mention the ocean's waters are too frigid for swimming).

Weather in San Diego

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Surf's up Before diving in, make sure to check the weather and surf conditions at San Diego's beaches. Heavy tides and rough waves can make a leisurely Pacific swim unpleasant and even unsafe. The San Diego Coastkeeper website offers a handy way to check which beaches are open or subject to advisories.

Don't count on public transportation San Diego is much easier explored by car. The light rail system (trolley) has few lines and getting from point A to B via bus in this large city can yield long travel times. That said, the city does have the same array of transportation options available in other big cities, including ride-sharing, bicycling, shuttles, scooters, ferries and more.

Beware "May Gray" and "June Gloom"  If you're coming to San Diego for the sunshine alone, keep in mind that May and June are notorious for having more overcast days than other times of the year.

Take a guided tour San Diego is chock full of guided tours, ranging from food tours to whale watches to sunset sails  to Jet Ski trips  and even fishing charters . Consider signing up for a guided tour to see a different side of the city with the help of a local.

How to Save Money in San Diego

Check the calendar There are numerous events and conventions throughout the year, ushering in thousands of visitors at any given time. Plan your trip around San Diego's event calendar to avoid high hotel rates.

Skip summer This is the peak tourist season, meaning hotel rates skyrocket while availability plummets. Instead, try for an early spring or late fall getaway.

Hang your hat downtown Hotels along the beach or ones overlooking the bay charge hefty fees for their views. You'll find more affordable lodging the farther you are away from the water.

Culture & Customs

San Diego's personality is a mix of Spanish, Hispanic and American influences. Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo (memorialized at the Cabrillo National Monument ) was the first European explorer to touch down in San Diego (and the whole California coast) in 1542. The colonization of San Diego's Native Americans brought in a Spanish influence to the city for the first time. The first of the 21 California Missions developed by the Spaniards, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, was founded here in 1769 and is considered to be the birthplace of Christianity on the West Coast. Right below the mission stands Old Town, the first permanent Spanish settlement on the West Coast. Balboa Park is another prime example of Spanish influence in San Diego. Not only is the park named after a Spanish explorer, but there are a number of Spanish-Renaissance style buildings dotted throughout.

But the Spanish influence is more of a relic in comparison to the Hispanic influence that permeates the city today. San Diego’s eclectic nature as a border town has significantly influenced all facets of the city’s culture as well as its economy and politics. The U.S.-Mexico border lies just 17 miles south of downtown and can be accessed via the city’s trolley system (on the blue line).  The city has one of the biggest Hispanic populations in the U.S., and as such is one of the cities where Spanish is spoken the most in the country. 

You can find Mexican eateries in just about every neighborhood you go, and if you visit a mall on the weekend (especially Fashion Valley), you’ll likely encounter wealthy Tijuana residents that came up to San Diego for the day to go shopping. Not only that, but oftentimes their kids commute into San Diego to go to school during the week. The Hispanic community has also made an impact on the city’s tourism. Old Town San Diego is the most visited state park in California and Chicano Park, located underneath the Coronado Bridge in the Barrio Logan, was given the distinction of a National Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department of the Interior in 2017. San Diego would not be the city it is today without the contributions made by the Hispanic community it calls home. 

San Diego is also a big military town. The city is home to the fourth-largest naval base in the U.S., making it the biggest on the West Coast. There are also multiple Marine bases and training centers there as well, so don’t be surprised if you see members of the military walking about around town or training at the beach. What’s more, the world’s largest military commissary is here. 

What to Eat

With the U.S.-Mexico border sitting just 17 miles south of downtown, it should come as no surprise that San Diego is home to a delicious array of top-notch Mexican food. Mexican restaurants big and small can be found everywhere you go, from more affluent areas like La Jolla and Point Loma to strip malls off the highway. If you're looking for a starting point, go to the Barrio Logan for some of the most authentic fare. Try the California burrito, which features carne asada, cheese, pico de gallo or guacamole and french fries. You should also consider indulging in some carne asada fries, which are topped with carne asada strips, cheese, salsa and beans. And, of course, you must sample the fish tacos. While the California burrito, carne asada fries and fish tacos are staples, they are hybrids. Conchas and pan dulce (or sweet bread) found at Panchita's Bakery and chamangos, smoothie or sorbet mixed with mangos and chamoy (found at Tocumbo Ice Cream ), are more authentic to Mexico. 

San Diego has also made a name for itself in the craft beer scene. The city boasts more than 150 breweries and counting. Top craft breweries, such as Karl Strauss, Stone Brewing and Ballast Point, all call San Diego home. You can find a directory of breweries on the San Diego Visitors Bureau website . Or, for a comprehensive glimpse into San Diego's love of the brew, consider planning your trip for June, when the San Diego Brewers Guild hosts its Beer Weekend. And if wine is more your speed, check out nearby Temecula on a guided wine tour .

Seafood is another important component of San Diego's culinary character thanks to the city's close proximity to the ocean. For the best atmosphere, seek out places closest to the water, such as Point Loma Seafoods , Mitch's Seafood (also in Point Loma) and Oscar's Mexican Seafood in Pacific Beach. 

And for a comprehensive taste of San Diego's Mexican, seafood and craft beer, head to Liberty Public Market in Point Loma. This market features produce stalls, as well as ready-made meals in addition to a few restaurants. For a crash course in the city's eclectic dining scene, sign up for a guided food tour . 

Getting Around San Diego

The best way to get around San Diego is by car. You'll find that the trolley and bus routes aren't as well-connected as in other big cities, so to fully experience everything, you're better off being the one in complete control for getting to point A and B. You can rent a car at the San Diego International Airport (SAN) – located about 2 1/2 miles northwest of the city center – or you can take a taxi and then rent a car once you arrive in town. Taxi fares from the airport to downtown San Diego can fluctuate depending on traffic, but you should expect to pay about $12 to $15 for a one-way ride. 

San Diego's world-famous surfing may have inspired the Beach Boys tune "Surfin' USA:" several of the spots mentioned in the iconic song are located in San Diego, including Del Mar, Trestles and Swami's.

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San Diego Travel Guide

With a string of hot new hotel openings and a legit Baja-Med food scene, San Diego is stepping out from the shadow of its big sister due north, earning world-class destination status beyond its famous theme parks. Come for the sunshine, but stay for the perfect lunch-time tacos you’ll burn off at the beach later that day. 

Plan Your San Diego Trip

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The Best Things to Do in San Diego

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Your Trip to San Diego: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• San Diego International Airport Guide
• Neighborhoods to Know
• San Diego Trolley Guide
• Driving in San Diego
• 48 Hours in San Diego
• Day Trips From San Diego
• Top Things to Do
• Free Things to Do
• Things to Do With Kids
• Best Beaches
• Where to Shop
• Hiking in San Diego
• Balboa Park Guide
• Top Museums to Visit
• Must-Try Food in San Diego
• Best Restaurants
• Nightlife in San Diego
• Top Breweries

California’s first tourist, Spanish conquistador Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo , stepped ashore in San Diego in 1542. Visitors haven’t stopped coming to the Plymouth Rock of the West Coast, now America’s eighth-largest city, ever since. Its 70 miles of scenic coast, favorable year-round climate boasting 267 days of sunshine  , endless outdoorsy offerings, singular craft beer scene, plentiful bounty of quality produce and seafood, family-friendly attractions, diverse cultural population, and general laid back vibe make it a quintessential Golden State getaway.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit :  San Diego is a true year-round destination so it depends what kind of vacation you’re after. Sun and sand? Go August through mid-October. Fall, non-holiday winter weeks, and early spring bring the shortest lines at family-friendly attractions and generally cheaper hotel rates. Avoid Comic-Con week unless superheroes and sci-fi are your reasons for living. 
• Language:  English, but you’ll also hear and see lots of Spanish.
• Currency:  US Dollar
• Getting Around:  Driving is the most common mode of transportation in this giant county although many people rely on rideshare apps to avoid having to find/pay for parking or limit alcohol intake when going out at night. Walking, if your destination is close enough, is usually safe in the best neighborhoods to visit. There is also a bus line, mass transit trolley, and app scooter rentals.
• Travel Tips:  Layer, layer, layer as this beach-meets-desert location , is subject to bright sun, marine layers, ocean breezes, hot Santa Ana winds, occasional rain, and post-sunset 10 degree temperature drops even in the summer, sometimes all in one day. Everyone keeps it pretty casual, especially clothing-wise, but with an abundance of dogs, babies, military personnel, and fitness gurus the city tends to get an early start on the day.

Things to Do

Whatever floats your boat, even if that is literally floating in a boat, San Diego has you covered. It’s easy to fill an itinerary for a family vacation, a romantic retreat, an active or outdoorsy adventure, or a city excursion.

• Play Outside: From sunny sea-level scenery to mountaintop panoramas, from the lushest of the 90 golf courses to the desolate Anza-Borrego Desert , and from the gnarliest wave to the calmest lake, San Diego’s a gorgeous place for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts to roam. Hike the five-peak challenge at Editor's Choice Award winner Mission Trails Regional Park, selfie at Potato Chip Rock , or step back in time at Carlsbad Calavera Nature Preserve. Spend a Sunday 'funday' at these 12 beaches . Get out on the water by whatever means necessary, be it a surfboard, kayak, sailboat, or paddleboard. Go apple-picking, golfing, paragliding, mountain biking, rock climbing, snorkeling, or kite-surfing. Heck, you can even join a naked volleyball game at the unofficial nude beach. 
• See Animals: It’s easy to make furry friends here. There’s of course the San Diego Zoo and their sister attraction, the Safari Park. Something’s fishy at Birch Aquarium and LEGOLand’s SEA LIFE. You can also experience animals in the wild while hiking, birding, taking a whale-watching tour , or simply going to a beach seals call home. La Jolla and Cabrillo National Monument also have excellent tide pools.
• Explore pocket neighborhoods: Downtown is a good place for your trip’s home base, but it by no means paints the full picture of what the city has to offer visitors. Little Italy has a great farmers market, trendy nightlife, and quality cafes. Hillcrest is the heart of the LGBTQ community . The historic Gaslamp Quarter buzzes at all times of the day thanks to museums, theaters, restaurants, bars, and clubs. North Park, South Park, and University Heights are hipster havens with taprooms, taquerias, boutiques, and thrift shops. Barrio Logan, once plagued by a bad reputation, is the epicenter of the city's Mexican-American culture and has become a hotspot for art. La Jolla, Del Mar, and Coronado are upscale enclaves with luxury hotels. And the beach-side hamlets, such as Ocean Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Solano Beach, are some of California’s chillest.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best free fun things to do with kids , Balboa Park’s coolest attractions , and where to catch an outdoor concert .

What to Eat and Drink

Like most of California, the San Diego culinary scene is culturally diverse and heavily influenced by the immigrants who work there or have moved there. Given the city’s proximity to Baja—the border is less than 20 miles away from downtown—you can gorge on Mexican cuisine all day, every day. There’s gourmet, fast-casual, fusion, and even vegan options. Area eateries especially excel at fish tacos aka battered and fried goodness wrapped in a soft tortilla with cabbage, salsa, crema, and lime. Also like the rest of California, there’s an emphasis on farm-to-table and pole-to-plate sourcing, which is easy to accomplish with access to fresh produce and seafood year-round. It’s home to 5,000 farmers and the county is the leading avocado producer in the nation.   Don’t forget to eat uni plucked straight from the sea, creative donuts, and the region’s other must-try dishes and ingredients .

It’s also the Craft Beer Capital of the US. There are so many breweries in town whipping up batches of West Coast IPAs, fruit sours, and just about every other suds style you can think of, that if you tried one a week it would currently take you more than three years to check every one off the list. These are 10 of the best . If you prefer a chardonnay to a coffee stout, there are a handful of wineries in the county like Bernardo and both Temecula wine country and Baja’s Valle De Guadalupe are short road trips. Also, if you are looking for something harder, craft cocktail bars like False Idol , Madison , and Noble Experiment are worth their weight in gold swizzle sticks.

Still hungry for ideas? Read about the best places to get fish tacos , five restaurants for romance , and the bars with the best views .

Where to Stay

It’s a big, busy city. Besides folks who come to enjoy everything we mentioned above, the city is also a military hub, home to several college campuses, and a popular convention city. Hotels are about 75 percent full on average,   and more than 85 percent during the busiest months like July when 150,000 characters descend on downtown, which drives up rates.  

Downtown has a lot of variety and is conveniently located near the airport and attractions. The enormous Hilton San Diego Bayfront recently updated its rooms and public spaces and is a great choice for people going to a convention or a baseball game (Petco Park is across the street). The Pendry is a luxury boutique in the center of late-night fun. The Intercontinental and The Guild Hotel offer chic stays within walking distance of Little Italy and the USS Midway. 

Other hotel clusters occur near the airport, in Mission Bay, and in Hotel Circle (just off I-5 or I-8). Beach resorts and posh properties can be found in Coronado, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla. 

Renting an Airbnb can be a cheaper option. Many of the available rentals in Ocean Beach, Bird Rock, and other seaside cities are a short stroll from a beach or have private pools. There’s also many great campgrounds .    

See the 10 of the best hotels, the best hotels catering to LGBTQ travelers , and the best beach hotels .

Getting There

San Diego International (SAN), the second certified carbon neutral airport in the country, is less than three miles from the downtown core. There are nearly 500 flights a day to and from more than 60 nonstop destinations in the U.S. and abroad on 17 airlines.   The city is also serviced by Greyhound and Amtrak, the latter of which has a gorgeous historic station in the heart of downtown and a track that often looks directly at the Pacific Ocean.

Public transportation is limited to a couple of Trolley lines, local commuter trains, and buses. Rideshares from companies like Uber and Lyft are readily available as are rentable bikes and electric scooters. But if you want to explore further afield (i.e. to go surfing in Encinitas, apple picking in Julian, wine tasting in Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe,) or are traveling with a large group, you’ll want the convenience of having a rental car.

Money Saving Tips

• Family fun can be had at a discount in October through the Kids Free San Diego program, which started 30 years ago with the zoo letting children in for free to celebrate the month it was founded. Now more than 100 companies including popular attractions like LEGOLAND and the USS Midway, restaurants, and hotels participate. Usually, kids get free admission or food, but some of the deals revolve around welcome gifts or product rentals. Age limitations vary between partners. 

• The almost year-round good weather means that visitors can opt outside and take advantage of free activities like going to the beach, hiking, running through Balboa Park or along the San Diego Bay waterfront, or bird-watching on a free Sunday walk at the Tijuana River Estuary.

• Be art smart by investigating which museums offer free-entry days or hours. Some only have free days for residents but having a local friend might be enough to get you through the door. The street art scene is also thriving thus creating an al fresco exhibition. Downtown, Little Italy, University Heights, and Barrio Logan (check out Chicano Park ) are all neighborhoods with lots to look at and post to Instagram. 

• Invest in a Go San Diego pass. It promises to save holders up to 55 percent on gate and ticket prices at 55 attractions, tours, and experiences. To make the most of something like this, you and your travel companions have to be willing to pack your days fairly full.

• San Diego County is sprawling. In fact, it’s bigger than two states (Delaware and Rhode Island). If you want to see a lot of it, there’s no real option other than having a car. But if a trip is focused on a particular area or event, especially if said area is downtown or the Gaslamp Quarter, visitors should book a hotel in the area like the Hilton Sand Diego Bayfront and then walk, call a rideshare, rent a scooter or city bike, or use the MTS Trolley.

• SanDiego.org has compiled this list of 25 free things to do in town. See how it compares to ours . 

San Diego Tourism Authority. "San Diego Official Fall 2019 & Winter 2020 Visitor Guide." Page 10. Fall 2019.

San Diego County Farm Bureau. "Why Is Farming Important to San Diego County?"

Tourism Economics. "San Diego Travel Forecast." Page 5. December 2019.

San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. "Nonstop Destinations from San Diego."

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San Diego Travel ~ Go Visit San Diego

Neighborhoods

Locate Different Attractions

San Diego has something to interest every visitor. People seeking a relaxing afternoon can work on their tan at the beaches or walk along the shoreline, while those interested in something a little more active can try their hands at surfing , paddle boarding , or beach volleyball.

There’s plenty to do inland as well no matter what neighborhood you’re in. Visit some of the more historic districts to learn about what life was like when the city was first founded .

Continue your education at one of the many museums, where you can learn about topics like transportation, natural history, science and technology, art, and more. You can also spend the day watching a live performance at a theater, visiting a botanical garden, or learning about marine life at SeaWorld San Diego.

In San Diego, there’s something fun for everyone!

Explore San Diego’s Diverse Neighborhoods

Each of San Diego’s different neighborhoods offers something new to visitors and local residents alike! The beachside of Del Mar , La Jolla and Pacific Beach offer a different feel from the very popular Balboa Park or neighborhoods in the Downtown San Diego area. With so much to do, there’s always something exciting to explore within a short distance, no matter where you are in San Diego!

Plan a Trip to San Diego

While San Diego is full of activities and attractions, it’s not all that large. There are many areas you can explore just by walking through them, so you don’t have to worry about traffic, driving or the hassle of parking.

One especially walkable area is Balboa Park and the nearby neighborhoods of Downtown San Diego which include the Gaslamp Quarter , Embarcadero and Harborview , located on the San Diego Bay .

Stroll through the Balboa Park, visit one of its educational museums , stop by the world-famous San Diego Zoo, have lunch at a sidewalk café in Bankers Hill, immerse yourself in the history and architecture of the Gaslamp Quarter and learn about the city’s naval history at the USS Midway Museum in the Embarcadero.

With so much to do in such a small area, San Diego will prove to be the perfect vacation destination for you and your family!

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More about san diego.

Whether you’re after a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed vacation, San Diego checks both boxes. Known for its dramatic sea cliffs, there are numerous spots to take in the sweeping ocean view, from Sunset Cliff to La Jolla Cove. A weekend drive down the coast alone is worth the visit. San Diego is also home to plenty of art galleries, delicious seafood restaurants and championship golf courses. If you're looking for more of a thrill, surf lessons are widely offered, or check out Belmont Park, a historic amusement park that opened in 1925. Who said history has to be boring?

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 66° to 66° (Winter)
• March through May: 67° to 69° (Spring)
• June through August: 72° to 77° (Summer)
• September through November: 77° to 70° (Autumn)

Top Experiences

Balboa Park : This historic urban park spans 1,200-acres and includes several museums, theatres and even the San Diego Zoo.

Belmont Park : Grab a cotton candy at this historic beachfront amusement park, open since 1925, and strike a pose next to the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster for that classic California selfie of your dreams.

San Diego Zoo : San Diego Zoo is committed to saving animals from around the world by offering a protected haven for breeding and specialized care. The conservation zoo is home to more than 3,500 species so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to say hello to everyone.

USS Midway Museum : Docked at Navy Pier, this historical naval aircraft carrier is home to an extensive collection of aircraft.

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8 of the best things to do in San Diego

Jun 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Experience the best of San Diego with our guide to the city's top things to do © Created by MaryAnne Nelson / Getty Images

Roughly two hours south from the hustle of Hollywood (depending on LA traffic), oh-so laid-back San Diego offers a different Californian experience.

Despite being the second largest city in the state, you'll find innumerable quiet corners and scenic views – an ideal destination for having your cake and eating it, too, when it comes to enjoying both city and nature in one go. Around 50 miles of pristine beaches offer plenty of variety, making it enticing to sneak away for some blissful solitude or indulge in the opposite by grabbing a drink at a buzzy beach bar. It's easy to hop between many different realities here.

There aren't so many large cities we'd readily describe as "relaxing," but San Diego is one of them. The city is anything but sleepy, though – with nightlife ranging from elegant to eclectic – luring in socialites to sample its myriad bars, breweries and events of all styles. Whether you're looking for a packed bar blasting early 2000s hip-hop or a sparklingly fancy rooftop with skyscraper views, you'll find both (and everything in between) here. 

Here's our guide to the best things to do in San Diego. 

1. Explore the arts, culture and gardens of Balboa Park

Think of it as the Central Park of San Diego: the leafy Balboa Park sprawls over 1200 acres in the heart of the city, bordering both downtown and the neighborhoods of North and South Park. More than a beautiful green space (although that reason alone is definitely worth visiting for), it's also home to multiple museums , the beloved San Diego Zoo , a Japanese garden , arts and crafts shops, plus eateries. Head over and picnic under the shade of a massive pine tree, or make a whole day of it and tick off the park's attractions one by one.

Planning tip: If you want to do it all, the park's Explorer Pass is the most simple and cost-effective way.

2. Discover your favorite San Diego beach

Every beach in San Diego has its own personality, and whichever one you prefer says something about you (if you were to ask a local). Whether you're a surf enthusiast or prefer to be horizontal under the sunshine with minimal movement, there's a coastline for you. 

Up north around La Jolla, Windansea Beach beckons with salty rock formations and dazzlingly bright sand greeted by strong waves. It's an idyllic place to unwind, seemingly far from any city. Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are two classic San Diego beach picks, neighboring each other northwest of downtown. A long boardwalk frequented by cyclists and skaters creates a lively feel, and you're never too far away from a place serving margaritas. There's plenty of party to be had, not to mention a giant roller coaster steps from Mission Beach. Expect crowds, especially at sunset.

Further south, Ocean Beach draws volleyball enthusiasts and a typically chill crowd. You might even encounter a random drum circle if you're lucky. Even further south, Coronado Beach might be the chillest of the lot, a short drive over a long bridge from downtown. The views do not disappoint. This non-exhaustive list should be enough to get you started – though we highly recommend exploring on your own to discover the rest.

Local tip: Check out the farmers market on Wednesdays on Newport Ave just off of Ocean Beach. It's a vibe.

3. Walk around Torrey Pines Nature Reserve

Twenty-ish minutes from downtown San Diego, Torrey Pines Nature Reserve is simply chef's kiss when it comes to seaside hiking and staggering cliffside views. This coastal state park is still within the city limits, but feels far from it. The meandering sandy trails, together with the fresh scents of pine trees and sage shrubs, give off the vibes that you're on a camping trip and should be setting up a tent at any moment. Hike around the rolling hills, then descend down the steps to the beautiful Torrey Pines State Beach.

Detour: While you're in the area, check out the Birch Aquarium . It's just south of Torrey Pines, home to some lovely marine life and equally as lovely views of the sea.

4. Enjoy art and great food in Barrio Logan

Barrio Logan, an area south of downtown, is full of Mexican-American heritage and arts at every corner. It's full of delights for the senses, from galleries and large-scale murals to fragrant taco joints and craft breweries. In the heart of Barrio Logan, Chicano Park lies under the Coronado Bridge, a historical landmark where settlers from Mexico arrived back in 1890 – and is now essentially an outdoor art museum doused in vibrant hues of color across dozens of intricate murals.

Planning tip: Arrive hungry. Barrio Logan is definitely a foodie's destination, with incredible Mexican cuisine that's worth saving room for. The tacos and tamales at Las Cuatro Milpas are the real deal. If you're wondering what to eat in San Diego, let this be the first place you try.

5. Check out La Jolla Cove

The cheerful neighborhood of La Jolla sits right on a rugged coastline, where jagged rocks form tide pools full of tiny little undersea worlds. La Jolla Cove is one particularly gorgeous strip of the coast, where you'll understandably encounter plenty of onlookers for the postcard-like vista – and oftentimes a plethora of sea lions lazing about onshore. Order a scoop of Bobboi Natural Gelato (the most delicious in San Diego) and enjoy it while you walk around the cover area.

Planning tip: After too many accounts of selfie-stick-wielding people getting way too close to sea lions, the city decided to close La Jolla Beach to the public – meaning you can't access the actual beach but can observe the views from above. It's still 100% worth a visit, but plan on posting up on the sand elsewhere.

6. Hang out in North Park and South Park

Most visitors stick to the coastal neighborhoods, missing out on North Park and South Park. These two neighborhoods blend into one another, full of funky hangouts and minimalist-chic coffee shops that would make any hipster proud. Though mostly residential, the main drags of North Park (University Ave and 30th St) are replete with restaurants of all cuisines, creatively designed bars, and little boutique shops. It's quieter down in South Park, but you'll encounter the same charm. Grab a drink at Part Time Lover , a bar and record shop combination with an opulently designed interior.

Local tip: Parking in North Park can be a nightmare on the weekends. Plan to walk a little bit, or just Uber or take public transportation into the area.

Shopping in South Park? Visit this vintage store, and other independent shops in San Diego

7. Watch a game or attend a concert at Petco Park

Even if you're not a baseball enthusiast, watching a game at Petco Park is pretty iconic. Backed by shiny skyscrapers, this stadium is home to the San Diego Padres, embodying the spirit of the city and all its hometown pride. Petco Park is busy year-round, even when the team is away. The stadium also hosts plenty of concerts by big-name artists and newer performers.

Detour: The Gaslamp Quarter is right next to Petco Park – a lively area full of restaurants, bars and clubs. Things can get rowdy at night, and if you're looking for a party, you'll find it here.

8. Wine and dine in Little Italy

Upscale cocktail bars and inviting restaurants with al fresco dining line the streets of Little Italy, a neighborhood that earned its name from generations of Italian heritage. You will, indeed, find Italian food – but also a whole collection of international fare from top chefs, putting this area on the map as one of San Diego's finest dining destinations. In the heart of the neighborhood is Piazza della Famiglia – a European-style plaza – that makes the name "Little Italy" all the more convincing. 

Planning tip: Visit on Saturdays or Wednesdays for the Little Italy Mercato: the largest farmers market in town, spanning six blocks.

This article was first published Jun 17, 2021 and updated Jun 3, 2024.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Diego

Written by Karen Hastings and Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 20, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Located in Southern California, not far from the Mexico border, San Diego is the oldest town in California. It has an enchanting natural beauty and a mild Mediterranean climate, with plenty of sunshine – perfect for outdoor adventures.

Some of the city's most popular tourist attractions are the museums, gardens, and Spanish Colonial-style architecture found in Balboa Park; the world-famous San Diego Zoo; and the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum.

For a little history and shopping, you can stroll the streets of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park or wander through the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you want to soak up the year-round sunshine and sea breezes, San Diego beaches are some of Southern California's best , with more than 68 miles of coastline in and around the city for sunning, swimming, and surfing.

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in this beautiful SoCal city with our list of the top tourist attractions in San Diego.

Balboa Park

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Balboa Park is a one-stop wonderland for tourists. This 1,400-acre site encompasses historical buildings, numerous museums, gardens, and green space. The park was created for the Panama California Exhibition of 1915-1916, and most of the buildings remain from that event. The predominant architecture is Spanish-style, with low-rise buildings that blend in with the natural surroundings.

Among the highlights of the park are the botanical gardens and lily pond, the Museum of Man, the Museum of Natural History, the San Diego Museum of Art, and the famous San Diego Zoo . Even if you never go into a building, the park is simply a beautiful place to visit.

Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, California

Official site: http://www.balboapark.org/

A top tourist attraction in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is one of the largest and most famous zoos in the United States . Visiting this family-friendly attraction is also one of the top things to do in San Diego with kids . Plan at least a whole day here to really get the most out of your visit.

You can see all kinds of exotic animals here, including gorillas, grizzly bears, koalas, leopards, bonobos, polar bears, rhinos, and sloths. The zoo attempts to replicate a natural environment for each animal, such as rocks for Amur leopards and a chilly pool for the polar bears.

The San Diego Zoo includes a Safari Park . In this area, all the animals roam free within large-enclosure natural settings. For instance, giraffes graze in a savanna; cheetahs dart through a jungle; and elephants wander through a sheltered valley. Because the Safari Park offers guided tours in an open-air truck or cart (with no walking required), it's a good option for families with kids. (Some tours have a minimum age requirement of three years and older.) Insider's Tip: Bring binoculars!

The Safari Park's carefully designed habitats support the zoo's mission to educate visitors about protecting the environment. The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance invests in conservation projects around the world that are dedicated to restoring wildlife populations in their natural habitats.

Spread out along a beautifully landscaped canyon, the zoo also displays an impressive botanical collection – more than 700,000 plants from around the globe grace the grounds.

Want to have more time with your favorite animals? You can upgrade your experience by signing up for behind-the-scenes and close-up animal experiences.

If your feet get sore from walking around the park, you can always hop on the Kangaroo Bus or glide over the exhibits in the Skyfari Aerial Tram . Better still, purchase a Skip-the-Line San Diego Zoo ticket , which includes admission, as well as unlimited rides on the bus and tram. You'll also avoid any long lines at the entrance.

The San Diego Zoo is about a 40-minute drive north of downtown San Diego.

Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, Balboa Park, San Diego, California

Official site: http://www.sandiegozoo.org/

Adjacent to Petco Park and the Convention Center, the Gaslamp Quarter National Historic District is the hub of the city's nightlife. It's a great place to visit if you're looking for things to do in downtown San Diego – especially after dark.

Restored late-19th- and early-20th-century Victorian buildings house buzzing entertainment venues, trendy shops, art galleries, and restaurants serving every kind of cuisine you can imagine, from Persian food to pizza. This is a great place to catch some live jazz, comedy, or theater performances.

The district runs for about 16 blocks, from Broadway to San Diego Bay, and it's easily walkable, but you can also hop on bike taxis if your feet need a break.

Thanks to its great location in the heart of the city, the Gaslamp Quarter is also a great place to stay. High-end hotels range from boutique properties like the Pendry San Diego to big-brand properties like the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego , a short stroll away from all the action.

Official site: http://gaslamp.org/

Walking along the San Diego waterfront on the Embarcadero, you might be surprised when you come across one of the US military's largest ships. The decommissioned USS Midway is permanently berthed at Navy Pier.

The highlights of a visit to the USS Midway Museum include more than 60 exhibits and over 30 restored aircraft. More than 225,000 military service personnel served on the ship, and you can take a self-guided audio tour to learn all about its history. For an additional fee, you can also try a flight simulator on board.

To save time on your busy sightseeing agenda, consider purchasing a Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket . This will allow you to bypass the crowds at the entrance, so you have more time to visit other top San Diego attractions.

Address: 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, California

Official site: http://www.midway.org/

San Diego's Seaport Village is a delightful place to stroll around and spend an afternoon. Located right on the waterfront, this area of unique shops and restaurants is one of the city's must-sees.

Picnic tables, benches, and waterfront patios are sprinkled throughout the area, and weekends can be very busy. Eclectic performers take to the outdoor stage regularly in the afternoons. Kids love riding the historic carousel with hand-carved wooden horses.

The area is easily accessible on foot from many of the nearby attractions, including the USS Midway . Since there is limited and expensive parking at Seaport Village, it might be best to park a little distance away and enjoy the stroll along the waterfront to the site.

Address: West Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, San Diego, California

Official site: http://www.seaportvillage.com/

Year-round sunshine and miles of beautiful surf-washed coastline make San Diego a perfect place to visit for a beach vacation. No matter what you like to do, San Diego's best beaches offer conditions for every type of activity.

For basking in the sunshine and people-watching, head to Mission Beach with its buzzing beachfront boardwalk and seaview cafés. Ocean Beach delivers a dose of hippy chic, and pet owners can let their pooches run off-leash here at the aptly named Dog Beach . Surfing is also popular at these famous beaches.

If surfing is your top priority, Del Mar is one of the most consistent locations. Other popular surf spots include Pacific Beach, Trestles, Swami's, and Black's Beach, and beginner surfers should head to Oceanside or La Jolla Shores .

Want to take the kids for a day of sun, sand, and sea? The best family-friendly beaches are Del Mar, Silver Strand, Coronado Beach, and La Jolla Shores . And if you prefer a wild and rugged slice of coastline, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve fits the bill, with scenic hiking trails and soaring sea cliffs.

Wondering about the best time to visit San Diego for a beach vacation? It depends on your chosen activity. If you're a surfer, winter storms bring big swells. If you're a swimmer, summer is the best time to take a dip, and if you're headed to the coast to soak up some sunshine or stroll along the shore, you can do that at any time of the year.

At the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, you can travel back in time and soak up some of the rich culture from San Diego's early days. The park recreates the feel of the Mexican and early American periods, from 1821 to 1872, when this settlement grew from a small Mexican pueblo.

Visit a working blacksmith studio, shop for authentic Mexican crafts, browse the art studios, enjoy live Mariachi music, and dine on a sunny patio at one of the atmospheric restaurants. Many of the historic buildings, including five original adobe structures, have been repaired, and newer buildings that have been added are in the same historical architectural style.

The Old Town State Historic park is one of the most visited state parks in California. There is no admission fee, and many of the attractions are free. You can also sign up for free walking tours offered twice daily (at 11am and at 2pm).

Address: 4002 Wallace Street, San Diego, California

Official site: http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=663

Breathtaking views out over San Diego and the Pacific Ocean make Point Loma one of the best places to visit in this beautiful city. You can start soaking up the vistas on the scenic road up to Point Loma. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mexico, and you might even be lucky enough to spot dolphins or whales.

This is where Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo first landed on the west coast of the United States in 1542. You can learn about the history of his incredible "Voyage of Discovery" through a variety of displays and exhibits at the Cabrillo National Monument. A large statue dedicated to Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo gazes out over the land he discovered.

Also located on Point Loma is the Old Point Loma Lighthouse , built in 1858. Visitors can tour the refurbished lighthouse building.

Hiking the scenic trails is another popular thing to do here. If you have children in tow, take the one-mile Bayside Trail to the tide pools.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm

The seaside neighborhood of Mission Beach epitomizes San Diego's sunny Southern California lifestyle. The beautiful blonde-sand beach is the focal point here.

Swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beach volleyball are popular things to do, and a three-mile scenic boardwalk skirts the shore. Come here on a sunny day, and you'll see locals rollerblading, skateboarding, strolling, and cycling along here, or dining at one of the many beachside cafés or restaurants.

A highlight of Mission Beach is Belmont Park , an East-Coast-style seaside amusement park complete with a historic roller coaster, excellent restaurants, fairground eateries, and street performances. It's a favorite San Diego attraction for kids.

Romantics will appreciate the awe-inspiring experience of a Southern California sunset. One of the best places to visit is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, which stretches for 68 acres along coastal bluffs above the Pacific Ocean. The location provides an incomparable viewpoint to take in the ocean panoramas as the sun transforms the horizon from blue to glorious rosy-toned hues.

During the gray whale migration season, the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park offers a chance to spot these graceful creatures as they migrate to Baja California in Mexico.

San Diego sits right on the water, and boat tours are a great way to do some sightseeing while soaking up the sunshine and fresh air. Hopping aboard a San Diego harbor cruise also gives you a fresh perspective of this beautiful seaside city. On this one- or two-hour narrated cruise, you can learn a little history, see the city skyline, and possibly spot some seals and sea lions basking along the rocky shore.

Tours include a cruise under the Coronado Bridge, and you can choose to sit either indoors or out on deck. Snacks and beverages are also available for purchase.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala was California's first mission. In 1769, the Spanish Franciscan Father from Majorca, Junipero Serra, founded the mission stations, the first of which was built in San Diego. A few years after it was founded, however, it was moved six miles inland because disputes had arisen between the Spanish troops and the Indians.

In 1775, the Indians set fire to the new mission, the Fathers sought refuge with the army, and it wasn't until 1777 that they built a new mission station with the help of the Indians.

Today, the mission is a National Historic Landmark , and it's a wonderful place to learn about San Diego's early history. Highlights include visiting the old church with a bell tower, declared a basilica in the 1970s; strolling around the peaceful gardens ; and browsing the fascinating exhibits at the Padre Jayme Museum .

You can take a self-guided tour or book a guided tour in advance through the website.

Address: 10818 San Diego Mission Road, San Diego, California

Official site: https://www.missionsandiego.org/

Art lovers looking for a dose of culture should head to the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park. Its distinctive facade is a copy of the 17th-century University of Salamanca, in the so-called plateresque style, with finely-chiseled terra-cotta work. Busts of Spanish painters adorn the entrance, and their artworks are among the many eclectic exhibits displayed here.

The museum's collection covers a broad spectrum of works from around the world, including pieces that date back 7,000 years. Highlights include works by Spanish and Italian old masters, along with South Asian paintings and art from the Americas, including 19th- and 20th-century paintings and sculptures.

Address: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, California

Official site: http://www.sdmart.org/

San Diego is one of the best places in Southern California to spot migrating whales. Blue whales, gray whales, humpbacks, and minke whales swim these waters at different times of year, and you also have the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and even orcas.

Whale watching trips are one of the top things to do in San Diego from December through April , when the gray whale migration kicks into gear. Blue whales usually migrate during the summer months, from mid-June through September .

The best way to see these gentle giants up close is aboard a San Diego whale watching cruise . This 4.5-hour cruise takes place aboard a replica of the old sailing schooner that won the 1851 America's Cup. In addition to an exhilarating sailing experience, you'll also learn about the different species of marine life, as well as US Navy sites you pass along the way. Drinks, snacks, and a whale sighting guarantee are all included in the tour.

For anyone interested in aviation and space flight history, this museum in Balboa Park is not to be missed. The museum educates the public about aircraft and space-age technology, with exhibits that help visitors understand the chronology and the pace of progress.

The museum begins its presentation of flight history with a model of the first hot air balloon, launched by the Montgolfier brothers in 1783, and a reproduction of the Wright brothers ' gliders. The presentation continues with exhibits of rare historical aircraft that date back to World War I. Also on display are mint-condition military aircraft from World War II, including the Navy F6F Hellcat and the A-4 Skyhawk Jet.

With a wide variety of collections, from aircraft, spacecraft, and flight simulators to photographs and film archives, the San Diego Air & Space Museum pays tribute to the rich aviation heritage of San Diego.

Visitors can stop at the museum's gift shop to pick up flight-themed souvenirs, such as books, puzzles, T-shirts, telescopes, model airplanes, and astronaut-autographed plaques. The gift shop even sells mini spacesuits for your little aspiring astronaut.

Address: 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, California

Official site: https://sandiegoairandspace.org

With its year-round balmy weather and sunshine, San Diego is a top destination for outdoorsy types. Local residents enjoy an active lifestyle in all seasons, but tourists can also take advantage of the many things to do in San Diego during a visit.

Travelers can participate in outdoor adventures , from biking along coastal trails and sailing in the bay to hiking in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The wide range of water sports and other activities will appeal to all types of outdoor enthusiasts.

A world of creativity and exploration awaits at The New Children's Museum. This innovative museum delights kids with engaging play areas and interactive exhibits, designed to encourage the imagination and critical thinking.

Contemporary artists developed the art installations for this unique museum. Each exhibit takes up the space of an entire room. Children enjoy looking at the art, as well as playing in the rooms. There are also art studios and workshops , where visitors can make their own art such as clay objects and paintings. Parents can participate in the art projects with their kids.

The multi-level modern building provides an inviting space for the museum exhibits. Eco-friendly construction techniques were used to build the 50,000-square-foot museum.

The New Children's Museum has a store that sells art supplies, games, puzzles, educational toys, children's books, and whimsical apparel.

As amusing as the museum's exhibits, the Bean Sprouts cafe offers healthy, organic seasonal meals and snacks designed to wow kids. The café serves breakfast and lunch with a special children's menu, plus allergy-friendly options. Kids love the café's "Imaginibbles," which feature fun, creative presentations, such as the "Grilledzilla" grilled cheese sandwich and the "Crocamole" avocado hummus, resembling the face of a crocodile.

Official site: https://thinkplaycreate.org

One of the top things to do in San Diego with kids, a visit to SeaWorld is sure to be a memorable experience for the youngsters in your family. Little ones delight in watching the friendly dolphins and frolicking otters, while bigger kids are awed by the shark exhibits and killer whale presentations.

SeaWorld San Diego combines the features of an aquarium and an amusement park . There are sea animal exhibits and thrilling roller-coaster rides, as well as more gentle rides for the little ones. Set on 100 acres of Mission Bay Park grounds, SeaWorld gives kids the chance to learn about sea animals such as walruses, sea lions, sea turtles, penguins, and flamingos.

Besides the sea animal shows and exhibits, SeaWorld also offers close-up encounters with dolphins (by reservation).

A new attraction at SeaWorld, Sesame Place is designed for kids who love the Sesame Street television show. Sesame Place includes Sesame Street -themed rides, a wave pool, character shows, and a musical play area.

Parents will appreciate the facilities at SeaWorld, including restaurants such as Big Bird's Bistro (suitable for children aged two years and older) and The Waterfront restaurant overlooking Mission Bay. SeaWorld also has several gift shops and boutiques where visitors can purchase T-shirts, sweatshirts, sea animal plush toys, and other souvenirs.

Address: 500 SeaWorld Drive, San Diego, California

Official site: https://seaworld.com/san-diego/

In San Diego, the prime tourist attractions are spread out over a large area. However, staying downtown affords easy access to many of the top sites, including the Gaslamp Quarter; Balboa Park; San Diego Zoo; the harbor; Horton Plaza shopping; Little Italy; and Petco Park, where the Padres play. From downtown, it's about a 10-minute drive to the quieter shores of Coronado, a popular weekend escape. Here are some highly rated San Diego hotels in a convenient, central location .

Luxury Hotels:

• In San Diego, luxury-seeking travelers don't have to sacrifice sea views for a central location. The Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego overlooks the sparkling San Diego Bay, a short hop from Seaport Village, the Gaslamp Quarter, and the USS Midway Museum.
• In the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, The US Grant is steeped in historic elegance, while the Omni San Diego Hotel is connected to Petco Park via a pedestrian skywalk. Both are near other top attractions, such as Balboa Park and Little Italy.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the Gaslamp Quarter, with views over Petco Park, the hip Hotel Indigo San Diego - Gaslamp Quarter is a pet-friendly property with an eco-friendly roof garden.
• Also in the Gaslamp Quarter, the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown resides in an evocative 1920s bank building. This three-star hotel has a restaurant, fitness center, and concierge.
• Not far from here, The Bristol Hotel San Diego is a stylish boutique hotel within walking distance of all the downtown action, as well as the USS Midway Museum and Horton Plaza.

Budget Hotels:

• Travelers watching their wallet but still seeking a central location should consider the Comfort Inn Gaslamp Convention Center , in the heart of its namesake district, and the Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego , five minutes by car to Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.
• Another affordable, good-value option is Old Town Inn , a 10-minute walk from Old Town, with easy access via the trolley to Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and the harbor.

Sightseeing Tours :

• To see all the top sights in San Diego, the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is the way to go. With the city's year-round mild climate, this is the perfect tour in any season, and it allows for complete flexibility. Get off and explore the areas that interest you or just stay on to see the city at a leisurely pace without having to worry about driving or parking. One or two day passes are available.

Since the city's weather is warm and sunny for most of the year, the best time of year to visit San Diego is from March through May and September through November, when the rates for hotels and airfare are cheaper. The weather is typically warm and sunny during these times of year, and the chance of rain is low for most of these months - except March, which can be wetter than the rest of spring and summer.

In April through May , spring weather usually brings warm weather, with temperatures in the 60s. Flowers bloom in local gardens, including the botanical gardens in Balboa Park, and you'll find fewer crowds. Keep in mind that May can be a little foggy - locals often refer to this as "May Gray," but saving money on accommodation and airfares might be worth visiting at this time.

In the fall, from September through November , you can expect crystal-clear sunny days; warm daytime temperatures, which can sometimes exceed summer temperatures in September; and fewer crowds at the city's top attractions. October and November (excluding Thanksgiving) are the cheapest months to travel at this time of year.

Peak season is June through August, during summer break, but June tends to have less sunshine than all the other summer months. At this time of year, warmer inland temperatures suck moisture in from the ocean, creating a thick blanket of fog along the coast , which the locals call "June Gloom." Early summer is also when crowds tend to swell as schools close for the summer high season. But the late summer — July, August, and September — brings the best beach weather .

Low season is typically during the winter months, from January through March. Rain is more likely during these months, but if no storms are in the forecast, you can expect the weather to be clear and sunny, with no fog, so it's worth taking a chance if you want a Southern California city fix at this time of year.

No matter what time of year you visit, it's also a good idea to bring layers because nights can be cool, even in summer.

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More Things to See and Do near San Diego : If you have more time up your sleeve, you might want to include some San Diego day trips in your travel itinerary – you can even take a quick trip to Mexico. Looking for an active vacation? Check out some of the top outdoor adventures in San Diego , from kayaking and sailing to hiking and biking the beachfront bike trails.

San Diego Family Travel : If you're traveling with children, San Diego has plenty of rewarding things to do with kids . Wondering where to stay in San Diego for a kid-friendly vacation? Check out some of the best resorts for families. And if you're also bringing your furry family members, San Diego has some excellent pet-friendly hotels.

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50 Best Things to Do in San Diego (California)

California’s birthplace and the first spot in the Western United States where Europeans stepped ashore, San Diego is a city with universal appeal.

To go with the comfortable climate and laid-back style, San Diego Bay and its natural harbour have a rich military heritage.

The colossal aircraft carrier USS Midway speaks to this, and stands as the mother of all museum ships.

San Diego’s easy-going culture and miles of beach breaks may awaken the surfer dude in you, while Coronado and La Jolla have two of the best family beaches in the whole country.

Set just north of the border, the city has a Mexican influence that spreads to its delectable cuisine, and there’s a deluge of culture at the museums, monuments and theatres of Balboa Park.

Let’s explore the best things to do in San Diego :

1. Balboa Park

You’ll keep returning to this 1,200-acre urban park for its world-class zoo, restful cultivated areas, museums in refined Spanish Revival buildings and live shows.

There’s a tapestry of gardens around the park, planted with more than 350 plant species hand-selected at the turn of the 20th century by the botanist Kate Sessions, the “Mother of Balboa Park”. An emblem for the park and San Diego is the Botanical Building, one of many splendid holdovers from the 1915-16 Panama-California Exposition.

Among the largest lath buildings in the world, the Botanical House contains 2,100 individual plants and is fronted by a pond with annual displays of lilies and lotuses.

Suggested tour : San Diego Walking Tour: Balboa Park with a Local Guide

2. Embarcadero

San Diego’s walkable harbour-front is brimming with shops, interesting sights and eateries, and looks across the bay to Coronado Island.

A lot of the Embarcadero’s interest is literally floating on the water, at the USS Midway and the heritage ships belonging to the San Diego Maritime Museum.

This is also the place to board tour boats around the harbour and out in the ocean to spot whales.

When the mercury rises kids can go wild at the interactive fountains in the Waterfront Park and adventure through the creatively designed playgrounds.

In November the Embarcadero stages the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival, while the San Diego Symphony Orchestra plays the Bayside Summer Nights from late-June to the start of September.

3. USS Midway Museum

The longest-serving aircraft carrier in the world has been permanently moored at San Diego’s Embarcadero since 2004. Commissioned in 1945, the USS Midway served in the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm, before becoming the largest museum dedicated to aircraft carriers and naval aviation anywhere.

GetYourGuide.com offers a self-guided audio tour of this humungous vessel, during which you’ll see over 30 restored aircraft, including 8 propeller planes, 14 jet aircraft and 8 helicopters.

You’ll be led through the galley, brig, crew’s sleeping quarters, pilots’ ready rooms and engine room, and hear exciting snippets from people who served aboard the Midway.

You’ll have lots of chances to get involved, testing simulators, climbing into cockpits and watching films documenting the dramatic events that took place where you stand.

4. Point Loma

The west side of San Diego Bay is embraced by a long rocky peninsula that merits a visit for jagged topography, thrilling history and views you won’t soon forget.

We’ll touch on a few of the sights on Point Loma later, but in 1542, this was the landing point for the first European expedition to what is now the West Coast of America.

Given the peninsula’s setting, protecting the west flank of the harbour, Point Loma has a military presence going back to the 19th century.

The 77.5-acre Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery (1882) is on the grounds of a former coastal artillery station.

There are more than 100,000 graves here, and solemn memorials like the USS Bennington Monument, recording an accident in San Diego Bay that claimed 66 lives in 1905. Head to the marina for whale watching expeditions, and to Osprey Point were climbers scale the rocks and fishers camp over the water.

Available tour : GPS Talking Tour Cars: Point Loma & Beaches Loop

5. La Jolla

The upscale oceanfront community of La Jolla is on a rocky headland poking out into the Pacific and surrounded by water on three sides.

La Jolla means fine dining, cliffs with sea caves and little coves where seals and sea lions rest on the sand.

We’ll stop by La Jolla many times on this list, visiting the famous Torrey Pines and its State Reserve, beaches and golf course.

La Jolla proper has a cosmopolitan, European feel in its cafes, boutiques, low-rise houses and steep stairways.

At Ellen Browning Scripps Park by La Jolla Point you can contemplate the majesty of the Southern Californian coast, catch open-air concerts on summer evenings and see the fireworks on the Fourth of July.

Make a detour to the Legends Gallery on Prospect Street, which has original art by former La Jolla resident Theodor Seuss Geisel (Dr Seuss).

Available tour : Segway Tour in La Jolla

6. Food and Drink

San Diego’s Spanish past and proximity to Mexico makes for amazing food.

We’re talking about some of the best fish tacos, carne asada, enchiladas around.

These dishes are underpinned by ultra-fresh ingredients like avocados, tomatoes, eggplant and fruit, all grown locally.

San Diego is the birthplace of the comforting California Burrito, which has French fries and carne asada.

Oscar’s Mexican Seafood makes a mean fish taco and great ceviche, and has four locations around the city.

The craft beer scene in San Diego is something to be reckoned with, and the Toronado craft pub (56 rotating draughts), and the multi-award-winning Societe and Ballast Point production breweries need to be in the plans of any beer aficionado.

Surf culture is woven into San Diego’s identity and the county’s 70 miles of open ocean coastline has more surf spots than we could list here.

Much of the shore has southwest facing beach breaks, while there are rockier sections with reef breaks at La Jolla and Point Loma.

Avid surfers are always ready to travel for the perfect wave, and this might mean a trip up to the highly popular Swami’s, which was mentioned in the Beach Boys’ Surfin USA. The river mouth point break at Trestles is world renowned and hosts WSL competitions from May to September.

Honourable mentions go to the beach breaks at Oceanside and the spacious Del Mar, where you won’t have to jostle for a wave.

There are shops for gear rental near every major spot.

And if you’d rather keep your feet on dry land, you can watch some great surfing action from the rocks at Windansea in La Jolla.

8. Cabrillo National Monument

At the southern tip of Point Loma you’ll stand where a European person first set foot on the West Coast.

Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo’s expedition arrived here on 28 September 1542, and he named the bay San Miguel (this would change to San Diego in 1602). The original heroic statue of Cabrillo was donated by the Portuguese government in 1939, while the current replica has stood since 1988. The national monument’s visitor centre has a movie and exhibits to retrace Cabrillo’s voyage along the Californian coast.

Outside you can still see the old coastal batteries that protected the harbour and check out the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which has been converted into a museum.

But maybe best of all is the widescreen view of San Diego’s skyline, the harbour, across to Coronado and down to Tijuana.

9. San Diego Old Town

The site of the first European settlement in present-day California, the San Diego Old Town is a visitor-friendly neighbourhood with historic adobe buildings from the city’s early days between 1820 and 1870. There’s wonderful set of preserved streets in the State Historical Park, which we’ll talk about next.

In the 40-acre Presidio Park you’ll be at the site where the San Diego Mission and the San Diego Presidio, the first settlements in modern day San Diego, were founded in 1769. The Old town is a great place to go for real Mexican food and brims with specialty shops and art galleries.

There’s lots of colour during annual festivities like Fiesta Navidad, Cinco de Mayo and Día de Muertos in November.

Suggested tour : Old Town San Diego: Hop-on Hop-off Narrated Tour

10. Old Town San Diego State Historical Park

A time warp back to the mid-19th century, the State Historical Park in the Old Town is scattered with restored historic buildings, including five original adobes, as well as detailed replicas.

The finest of the adobes is the Casa de Estudillo from 1827, one of the oldest remaining pieces of Spanish architecture in California.

The park is free to enter and gives a sense of the intersecting cultures, as a Mexican pueblo became an American settlement.

There’s constant activity, with burros to pet, shopkeepers happy to share their stories, and artisans showing off their knowhow: At the Black Hawk Smithy & Stable you can see a blacksmith working the forge.

There are shops, little museum and restaurants, while the Historic Plaza has a full schedule of cultural celebrations and events.

11. San Diego Zoo

Founded by the physician Harry M. Wegeforth after he was inspired by the roar of a lion at the Panama-California Exposition in 1915, the San Diego Zoo is rated among the best in the world and houses more than 650 species.

This was one of the first zoos to build cageless exhibits, and opened the first ever moated lion enclosure in 1922. You can beat the heat and get around on a guided tour bus that covers three quarters of the park, or the Skyfari tramway from 1969. As with the best zoos, the enclosures tally with natural habitats, so there’s African rainforest inhabited by gorillas, some of the world’s largest free-flight aviaries, as well as Arctic woodland and tundra for polar bears.

The San Diego Zoo is one of only four zoos in the United States to have Giant Pandas, and these are in the Panda Trek, while the Giant Panda Discovery Center has clever multisensory exhibits revealing how these creatures sound and smell.

Book online : San Diego Zoo Ticket: 1-Day Pass

12. San Diego Harbor Cruise

At the Embarcadero in the shadow of the USS Midway you can set sail on a 1-hour cruise around San Diego Bay with GetYourGuide.com.

A great way to get to know San Diego quickly, the cruise will give you a fresh angle on more than 50 landmarks and ships immortalised by movies and popular culture.

You’ll get a rare chance to see the San Diego-Coronado Bridge from the water, and spot wildlife like pelicans, herons and sea lions.

All the time there will be in-depth and entertaining commentary by an experienced guide, passing on anecdotes about the navy in San Diego and the work being done to improve the bay as a marine habitat.

13. Whale Watching

Between December and April the California Gray Whale migrates from Northern Alaska to Baja California to give birth in warmer climes, passing by San Diego.

In this season you can head to the Embarcadero for a whale watching cruise, up to four hours long.

On this comfortable voyage with indoor and outdoor seating, you’ll be joined by a qualified naturalist from the San Diego Natural History Museum, giving riveting insights about these cetacean visitors.

The likelihood of seeing a dolphin or whale is high, to the point where you’ll get a free pass for another tour if you don’t see anything.

But you are guaranteed to spot plenty of sea lions and harbour seals, and can soak up San Diego county’s extraordinary Pacific coastline from the ocean.

Recommended tour : San Diego Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruises

14. Little Italy

Right in downtown San Diego, Little Italy is a neighbourhood that has its roots in the city’s once lucrative tuna industry.

The last of the canneries closed in the 1980s, but those facilities and the boat fleets were manned by immigrants from mainland Italy and Sicily.

From the 19th century they settled close to the Embarcadero in what is now a congenial area of galleries, one-of-a-kind design shops, pizza spots, restaurants, bodegas, breweries and cafes that spill out onto patios.

The Saturday “Mercato” street market shuts down several blocks and has become a San Diego institution.

Get a snap of the “Little Italy” sign and take a piece of paper and pencil to the tables at Amici Park, which have bronze tablets with recipes for dishes like stuffed artichokes, fava bean spread and fish tacos.

15. Petco Park

Right in downtown San Diego, the state-of-the-art Petco Park is lauded as one of Major League Baseball’s best stadiums.

In the stands you’ll get incredible vistas of the Sand Diego skyline and San Diego Bay at one of 81 regular season games (more if the Padres have a successful season). Petco Park opened in 2004, before which the San Diego Padres had to share the Jack Murphy Stadium with NFL’s Chargers.

There’s a real feeling of ceremony as you approach the steel and sandstone facade of this venue, passing through a palm court and water walls.

Petco Park has an entertainment zone to keep kids engaged, and you get to know the Padres’ history and great players at the new Hall of Fame.

Food is an essential part of the baseball experience, and you can get anything from sashimi to fish tacos, Roman-style pizza, BBQ, oysters and gourmet hotdogs at Petco Park.

16. La Jolla Cove

This compact north-facing cove in La Jolla is one of the most photographed pieces of the California coast.

And with good reason as the scenery is breathtaking: The beach, within a 6,000-acre ecological reserve, is hemmed by rocks hollowed with caves by the relentless ocean.

Being a natural park there’s lots of wildlife from the seals and sea lions sunning themselves on the beach and rocks, to the barracuda, batfish and giant sea bass in the waters.

The surf can be powerful, so La Jolla Cove isn’t ideal for swimming.

But if you’re in the mood for adventure you can go diving to discover the ecological park’s underwater life, while kayak and bike tours are also on the agenda.

End the day at an oceanfront restaurant watching the sun go down.

17. Coronado Beach

Pack a picnic in a cooler, and cross the monumental San Diego-Coronado Bridge for a day at one of the best beaches in America.

With the sophisticated architecture of the Hotel del Coronado and a parade of beachfront mansions in the background, Coronado Beach is long, flat and soft.

These sands even seem to glisten, an effect caused by their high mica content.

Point Loma in the west helps defend Coronado from the strongest Pacific swells, so the beach is safe for swimming and has a team of lifeguards on duty.

You can rent a bike or pedal cart and drift along Ocean Boulevard, while there are fire rings on the north end for smores as the sun sets.

Available tour : San Diego: Coronado Bay & the Beach Small Group Walking Tour

18. Mission Beach

San Diego’s easy-going beach town is adored by 20-somethings for its party atmosphere and two miles of Pacific beach.

This is lined with a boardwalk, enlivened by Belmont Park’s vintage rollercoasters and amusements.

If you’d prefer peace and relaxation, the South Mission Beach area is a little more tranquil.

There’s prime beach weather in San Diego from June to September but the season extends to the spring and autumn months, and you’ll even see people lazing on the beach in December if the sun is out.

You can rent a bike and see the sights on the boardwalk, sign up for whale-spotting cruises, while there’s adventure golf, a string of playgrounds, surf shops and lush gardens with lofty palms.

19. San Diego Museum of Art

An almost overwhelming medley of Spanish Renaissance and Baroque painting awaits at this museum in Balboa Park.

El Greco, Murillo, Goya and Zurbarán are all here, together with Italian and Dutch Masters like Veronese, Canaletto, van Dyck, Rubens and Frans Hals.

In the last few years, the museum was donated a raft of paintings from the Symbolist, Expressionist and New Objectivity movements, by Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, Robert Delaunay, Otto Dix and Alexej von Jawlensky.

The venue is striking too, with an appropriate Plateresque (Spanish Renaissance) facade, taking cues from the Cathedral of Valladolid.

This was built in 1926 to harmonise with Balboa Park’s buildings from the 1915-16 Exposition.

The museum has a busy programme of cocktail evenings, film screenings and after hours viewings, as well as fun activities for kids on school holidays.

20. Belmont Park

A Mission Beach linchpin, Belmont Park was opened by the sugar magnate John D. Spreckels back in 1925. This amusement park has 12 rides, three oceanfront eateries, an 18-hole Tiki-themed mini golf course and a host of smaller attractions.

But the king of Belmont Park has to be the time-honoured Giant Dipper.

This wooden rollercoaster arrived with the park and is a National Historic Landmark of its own.

Riding the giant dipper is a rite of passage for kids growing up in San Diego, but there are also high-octane rides like Control Freak, Octotron and Beach Blaster to keep the adrenaline pumping.

At the Sweet Shoppe, see if you can handle a Monster Waffle Cone ice cream.

21. San Diego Natural History Museum

One of the first ports of call at Balboa Park is the San Diego Natural History Museum, the oldest scientific institution in Southern California.

The museum was established in 1874, and its current Spanish Revival home (1933) was given a Postmodern facelift at the start of the new millennium.

The exhibitions are compelling for people of all ages.

Take Fossil Mysteries, examining California and Baja California’s rich prehistory, and packed with spectacular fossils, models, dioramas, interactive stations and murals.

You can venture through Southern California’s varied ecosystems at Coast to Cactus, and study the state’s complicate relationship with H2O at Water: A California Story.

One medium-term show open until 2020 preserves the 130,000-year-old mastodon bones and tusks unearthed at a site in San Diego.

You can also watch eye-popping 2D and 3D presentations at the giant theatre, showing the wonders of the ocean and taking you back to the Ice Age.

Online tickets : San Diego Natural History Museum

22. Mission San Diego de Alcalá

Set up in 1769, this was the first Franciscan mission in the Californias, and was the location for the region’s first execution and its first Christian burial.

Beneath the chancel also lies the body of California’s first Christian martyr, Father Luis Jayme, killed by Native American Kumeyaay warriors in 1775. The current church is from the early 19th century and was restored in 1931 following a long abandonment.

The largest bell in the campanile is original, dating to 1805 and cast with a crown representing the King of Spain.

There are daily tours of the compounds, where you’ll the remnants of the “convento”, which housed the friars in the early 19th century.

In the church, see the 15th-century choir stalls, carved with vegetal patterns and strange beasts.

The Mission Museum has archaeological finds like tools, pottery and weapons, as well as examples of Kumeyaay handicrafts and photographs of their elders.

23. San Diego Air & Space Museum

In Balboa Park’s fabulous Streamline Moderne Ford Building (1936) the San Diego Air & Space museum chronicles the evolution of human flight with models and genuine artefacts.

At this Smithsonian affiliate you can get in touch with the interwar Golden Age of Flight, represented by aircraft like an Aeronca C-3 Collegian, a Consolidated PT-1 Trusty and a Ryan STA. There are gleaming engines from this period and artefacts for the likes of Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh.

You can go back further to see faithful reproductions of the Wright Brothers’ gliders, and zoom forward to the Jet Age, represented by a Douglas A-4B Skyhawk, a Boeing GPS-12 Satellite and a the canopy of the game-changing North American X-15 rocket plane.

There are also flight simulators, an “Action Hangar” play area for little ones and a 3D/4D theatre for pulsating shows.

24. Gaslamp Quarter

There are 94 historic buildings in this 16 block heritage area in downtown San Diego, bordering Petco Park and the Convention Center.

The Gaslamp Quarter, heralded by a gateway arch on Fifth Avenue, dates from 1867 when the real estate developer Alonzo Horton envisaged a new city centre nearer the San Diego Bay.

If you’re in San Diego to sample the food scene and nightlife you’re sure to find yourself in the Gaslamp Quarter at some point, in a neighbourhood of more than 100 sidewalk restaurants, craft breweries, concept cocktail bars and rooftop lounges.

There’s lots going on here during Comic-Con in July, as well as big street parties for Mardi Gras and St Patrick’s Day.

Recommended tour : Gaslamp and Downtown San Diego Segway Tour

25. Birch Aquarium

Roosted on a bluff over the campus of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, this noted aquarium reveals the spectrum of marine life of the Pacific Ocean.

You can get there in 20 minutes from downtown San Diego, and start with the Hall of Fishes.

This has an array of habitats, from the brisk waters of the North West to the tropical climes of the Indo-Pacific.

There’s a 260,000-litre kelp forest tank, coral reefs and a much-loved loggerhead turtle that was rescued.

At the Tide-Pool Plaza, youngsters can get to know the creatures inhabiting Southern California’s tide pools like starfish, hermit crabs, lobsters and sea cucumbers.

There’s Something About Seahorses is a showcase for this peculiar creature, while Feeling the Heat is a jolting look at the effects of climate change.

26. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Conserving some 2,000 acres of rugged Pacific coastline north of La Jolla, this National Natural Landmark is on a plateau skirted by high cliffs for a awesome views of the ocean.

There are eight miles of trails, and you can use the Beach Trail to get down to natural un-touristy beaches with almost no signs of civilisation.

The park is a vital habitat for the endangered Torrey Pine, which only grows in this location and off the coast of Santa Barbara on Santa Rosa Island.

During the migration season you may get to see gray and blue whales from the cliffs.

Stop by the charming pueblo-style visitor centre, which is the departure point for guided on walks on weekends and holidays at 10:00 and 14:00.

27. Torrey Pines Gliderport

On the cusp of the State Reserve is a public platform for hang gliding and paragliding posted on cliffs above the Pacific.

If you’re intent on taking to the skies but have no experience you can take part in a tandem hang gliding or paragliding flight, starting at a couple of hundred dollars.

But most of the visitors to the Gilderport are here just to bask in the scenery and feel the ocean breeze.

There are benches to linger over the views of the Pacific and the coastline down to La Jolla, and you can watch the gliders take off, tuck into an outsized sandwich at the Cliffhanger Cafe and enjoy some live music on Saturday afternoons.

28. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

On the west flank of Point Loma is a glorious 68-acre park protecting rough-hewn ocean bluffs, caves, natural arches and tidepools.

There’s no mystery to the name, as you may not find a better spot within easy reach of downtown San Diego to watch the sunset.

And as with many high vantage points on the Southern Californian coast, there’s a good chance of spotting gray whales between December and April.

By road the scenery is sensational on the Sunset Cliffs Boulevard between Adair Street and Ladera Street.

29. San Diego Museum of Man

Set in four imposing Spanish Revival buildings from the Panama-California Exposition, the Museum of Man has just celebrated its centenary.

Here you can study pre-Columbian history, getting to know local Native American cultures, as well as Mesoamerican civilisations like the Mayans.

The exhibitions approach these topics in fun, enlightening ways.

Take, BEERology, looking into the 10,000-year history of beer brewing and featuring a solid gold beer cup belonging to an Incan king some 600 years ago.

Monsters! is a family-oriented exhibition about mythical beasts like the Kraken, unicorns, dragons and the Yeti.

You can also delve into the origins of race on the second floor, and delight in one of the United States’ greatest collections of Egyptology, with masks, pottery, sarcophagi and two authentic mummies.

30. Hotel del Coronado

The pride of Coronado is a magnificent Victorian beachfront hotel and National Historic Landmark, now owned by the Hilton brand.

When the Hotel del Coronado opened in 1888 it was the world’s largest resort hotel.

Counted among its distinguished list of guests are Rudolph Valentino, Charlie Chaplin, Mae West, Clark Gable, Babe Ruth and Edward VIII (then Prince of Wales). No fewer than 16 presidents have stayed at the Hotel de Coronado, in an unbroken line going back to President Eisenhower.

The building, easily identified by the conical roofs on its towers, has appeared in 12 films, most famously Some Like it Hot (1959). You don’t have to book a room to get the inside track, as there are daily 75-minute tours through the building and its ornamental gardens.

31. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Out in the semi-arid environment of the San Pasqual Valley you may wonder if you’ve stumbled into the real savanna at the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park.

In 1,800 acres, you’ll take road train and truck caravan rides through vast landscapes of the African Plains and Asian Savanna to view wildebeest, springboks, gazelles, giraffes, antelopes, rhinos and many more.

The recent Tiger Trail is a walking exhibit where you’ll come within inches of Sumatran tigers, while the Nairobi Village and Gorilla Forest have an aviary and habitats for meerkats, lemurs and the formidable Western Lowland gorilla.

The Lion Camp is home to a family of 13 lions, and you’ll see just how fast a cheetah can move at the Cheetah Run at the African Outpost.

For something unforgettable, take the Flightline Safari, a zip-line more than 40 metres over the giraffes and rhinos in the park’s African Plains.

Book online (skip the line) : San Diego Zoo Safari Park 1-Day Pass

32. Mormon Battalion Historic Site

The Mormon Battalion was the only unit formed along religious lines in the history of the United States military.

It comprised between 534 and 559 followers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

This infantry unit was commanded by Mormon company officers who answered to regular U.S. Army command.

The Mormon Battalion served for a year during the Mexican-American War of 1846-48 and is remembered for an almost inconceivable 1,900-mile march from Iowa to San Diego, together with 80 women and children.

The newly revamped visitor centre at the site of the battalion’s arrival point in the Old Town gives free daily tours and has interactive multimedia displays and artefacts shining a light on the unit.

You can also learn more about the livelihoods of the day, like panning for gold and brick-making, and get to know the inner-workings of muskets and cannons.

33. La Jolla Shores Park

Pushing on for a mile in northern La Jolla, this beach may be the best in the San Diego area for families.

While many of the beaches around La Jolla are sequestered little coves, La Jolla shores has an accommodating crescent of pale sand.

The beach is trimmed with grass and a line of towering palms, and blessed with majestic views north to the 30-metre cliffs of Torrey Pines.

What makes La Jolla Shores such a hit with families is the low surf and very shallow gradient.

In summer the waves are the gentlest of any San Diego beach, and this is down to La Jolla’s rocky headland screening the southwest side of the beach.

The light surf is just right for sea kayaking and diving, and passing by at night you’ll see the shore glinting with beach fires.

34. Fleet Science Center

A planetarium and interactive science museum, the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park was a trailblazer when it opened in 1973. Younger children will get the most out of the self-guided permanent exhibitions where they can explore outer space, learn the ins and outs of San Diego’s water system and discover the unseen world of nanotechnology.

For toddlers the Little Learners’ Lab is a play zone with varying shapes and textures, while the Ball Wall has a little world of shoots, tracks and moving objects.

The Heikoff Giant Dome Theater has three IMAX shows screening several times a day.

In summer 2018 these were “Aircraft Carrier”, “Great Barrier Reef” and “Pandas”.

35. Pacific Beach

Next door to Mission Beach and on the way to La Jolla, Pacific Beach is another belt of dreamy Pacific coastline, edged by Ocean Boulevard and its many amenities.

The beach seems never to end, continuing past the Crystal Pier where it becomes North Pacific Beach, preferred by families for its lifeguard supervision.

The area, Pacific Beach, has been gentrified since the 1990s and partying college students have moved down to Mission Beach to be replaced by plush condos, upmarket restaurants and a slightly older crowd.

Go for a stroll along Crystal Pier, which is flanked on the landward end by quaint weatherboard holiday cottages.

If you can avoid the many fishing rods, you can watch the waves break from the end of the pier and look back to the city and up to La Jolla.

36. Maritime Museum of San Diego

On the Embarcadero’s Waterfront Park, a few steps from the USS Midway, is one of the nation’s largest collections of historic vessels, all ready to be boarded.

The Maritime Museum of San Diego has 11 heritage boats and submarines.

The most noteworthy is the Star of India (1863), believed to be the oldest ship in the world that still sails regularly.

Launched at the Isle of Man, this iron-hulled windjammer was built to carry cargo between Britain, India and New Zealand.

Fans of military hardware will waste no time boarding the Soviet B-38 and US Navy Dolphin submarines.

One ship you may have seen before is HM Surprise, a modern 18th-century British Navy frigate replica that appeared in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

The museum puts on a military-themed 45-minute harbour tour in a Vietnam War-era Swift boat.

37. Old Point Loma Lighthouse

One of San Diego’s oldest monuments, this lighthouse was raised in 1855 just five years after San Diego’s admission to the Union.

Its life as a beacon for ships navigating San Diego Bay was quite short and it was deactivated when the new lighthouse was built by the water, 120 metres down the cliffs in 1891. After the foundation of the Cabrillo Monument in the 1930s the complex was restored and is now a prominent landmark and museum.

You can see the keeper’s living quarters, log books, service equipment, turning mechanism and the original Fresnel lens that once had a range of 24 miles.

On certain days you may also be greeted by a re-enactor playing Captain Israel, a lighthouse keeper in the 19th century.

38. Point Loma Tide Pools

Something we haven’t mentioned about Point Loma is the richness of the nature residing in the tide pools at the foot of the cliffs on the western tip of the peninsula.

The rocky shoreline here is in the boundaries of the National Monument, which has kept it clear of development.

Check the tide charts and keep them in mind, because when the ocean withdraws you can scramble down the terraces of stratified rock to poke around the sea caves and look for ocean life in the rock pools.

You should spot sea anemones, starfish, lined shore crabs, hermit crabs, kelp crabs and maybe even an octopus.

39. Liberty Station

The humongous former Naval Training Center San Diego on Point Loma has been transformed into an exciting waterfront development.

That naval base was founded in 1923 and is on the National Register of Historic Places, with rows of interesting former mess halls and barracks.

The open space along the base’s old ship channel has become a waterfront park with play areas and jogging trails.

Liberty Station is divided into an array of districts: Office, Hotel, Educational, Retail and Residential.

For food, the Arts District, South Point and the Quarter are loaded with independent bars, eateries and cafes, well as nationwide chains like Five Guys, Tender Greens and Cold Stone Creamery.

The NTC Promenade at Liberty Station is a non-profit arts area, home to the San Diego Comic Art Gallery and Women’s Museum of California, as well as theatre companies, four dance groups and the LOT at Liberty Station theatre.

40. Whaley House Museum

San Diego’s first two-storey brick-built building, the Old Town’s Whaley House dates to 1857. What kindles fascination about the building is its spooky goings-on.

This National Historic Landmark was designated “haunted” by the U.S. Commerce Department in the 1960s.

It appears that the house’s owner and designer, Thomas Whaley chose San Diego’s former gallows as the plot for his home.

He claimed to hear one criminal, “Yankee” Jim Robinson (d.1852) stomping around on the top floor, and Whaley and his wife are believed to still be around, announcing themselves by the scent of cigar smoke and perfume.

In the same ensemble is the French mansard-roofed Verna House (1870s), moved to this spot to save it from demolition in 1965 and housing the gift-shop.

The interior, which also served as a courtroom for a period, has been frozen in time to the mid-1870s.

41. Children’s Pool Beach

The ocean in San Diego is always a thrilling sight, but the surf can be unsafe for children and less accomplished swimmers.

In La Jolla one solution was to construct a big concrete seawall to the west, shielding this beach from the waves and creating a scallop-shaped cove with calm waters.

The was gifted to the community by the philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps in 1931, but what nobody anticipated was how attractive the beach would prove for seals and sea lions.

December to May they come to wallow in the gentle waters and give birth to pups on the beach.

Access to Children’s Pool Beach is discouraged in this season, but you can head along the seawall to get a good look at the winter residents with their babies.

42. Seaport Village

Call it a tourist trap, but this waterfront mall has a few things to recommend it.

For one, there’s a series of restaurants like the Pier Cafe and Edgewater Grill, each with a front-row view of the bay.

Seaport Village is on the south end the Embarcadero within walking distance of the downtown.

You can make your way around a circular network of lanes lined with buildings in varying architectural styles from replicas of haciendas and adobes to Victorian houses.

There are more than 50 shops for twee souvenirs like hand-painted tiles and mugs, and you can enjoy some live music on summer weekends.

Look out for the carousel, dating to 1895, with beautifully rendered animals and mythical beasts to ride on.

43. Pacific Surfliner

If this railway line has a romantic sounding name that’s because it clings to the Southern Californian coastline between San Diego and San Luis Obispo.

The most scenic stretch is through the San Diego and Orange Counties when the train has a near constant view of the Pacific.

These carriages are so accustomed to surfers that there are even special racks for surfboards.

You could use the train for a day in Los Angeles, making sure to sit on the right side of the train on the return to San Diego to catch the sunset.

There are multiple departures each day, and you can get to Disneyland in Anaheim in two hours and Los Angeles Union station in three.

44. San Diego-Coronado

An abiding feature of the San Diego cityscape, the San-Diego-Coronado Bridge swoops across the San Diego Bay, carrying the State Route 75 to and from the island for a spellbinding perspective of the city.

The design came from the Modernist architect Robert Mosher and the bridge opened in 1969, just two years after construction began.

The reason for bridge’s signature 80° curve is that the Navy required a clearance of at least 61 metres for its aircraft carriers, and the structure needed extra space to reach this height on a safe gradient.

If you need to see the bridge up close there are guided kayaking tours under the bridge from Coronado.

45. Mission Trails Regional Park

This whopping 5,800-acre natural preserve is inside San Diego’s city limits to the northeast, and is the sixth-largest municipal park in the United States.

Snaking off into this rugged wilderness of scrubby hills and canyons are 60 miles of marked hiking, cycling and horse riding trails.

One route will take you to the summit of Cowles Mountain, the highest point in San Diego at 486 metres and with a panorama of San Diego County that merits the climb.

You can also track down a riveting piece of San Diego’s early history at the Old Mission Dam, a National Historic Landmark.

The dam impounded the San Diego River to irrigate fields owned by the Mission San Diego de Alcalá.

This modest construction represents the first colonial irrigation project on the United States’ Pacific coast.

46. Old Globe Theatre

Established in Balboa Park during the California Pacific International Exposition of 1935-36, the Old Globe Theatre is a pillar of culture in San Diego.

Among the top regional theatres in the country, this Tony-award winning institution puts on 15 productions of classic, modern classic and new works each season, with Shakespeare at its soul.

The complex has three stages: The flagship Old Globe Theatre, the outdoor Lowell Davies Festival Theatre, both seating around 600, and the smaller Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, a theatre in the round.

For a snapshot of what to expect, there are two performances a day during the week and three on weekends.

In July 2018 you could catch a family-friendly production of Dr.

Seuss’s The Lorax, or live the drama of Shakespeare’s The Tempest.

47. Liberty Public Market

One of the former navy buildings at Liberty Station has been adapted for this enticing food destination.

Open seven days a week, 11:00 – 19:00, the Liberty Public Market is like an urban central market, showing off the best of the region’s wine, beer, fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, pastries, prepared foods, sauces and arts and crafts.

It’s a place for people who are concerned about food provenance to do their food shop, but is also a must for on-the-spot dining, with a dash of pop-up eateries and stands.

Think lobster rolls, jambalaya, craft sausages, farm fresh salads, Thai-style streetfood and cold-pressed juice.

48. Torrey Pines Golf Course

The 36-hole municipal golf centre at Torrey Pines was established in 1957 and has real prestige.

This totally public facility played host to the 2008 U.S. Open, which as of July 2018 was the last major title claimed by Tiger Woods.

The U.S. Open is scheduled to come back to Torrey Pines in 2021. Plotted by the famed course architect William P. Bell and his son in 1957, Torrey Pines has two championship courses (North and South), and one of the largest golf shops in the Western United States.

The South course was remodelled by Rees Jones in 2001 and has since staged a host of big events.

You can be sure that this course is in demand, and to book a tee time non-residents have to sign up with San Diego’s parks and recreation department and book online up to three days in advance.

49. Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market

Saturdays from 08:00 to 14:00 more than 200 tents take over Little Italy’s Date Street, between Kettner Boulevard and Front Street.

Local producers lay out regional meat, poultry, fruit, eggs herbs and vegetables, all seasonal and fresh from the farm, while there’s also fish, plants, spices, coffee beans, cheese, homemade sauces and relishes.

Bring an appetite because you can indulge in oysters shucked on the spot, and sea urchin caught hours earlier.

If that sounds too adventurous you might be tempted by paninis, crêpes, cheesecake in a cup, or go healthy with a green smoothie.

Amazingly, this is just one of 20 weekend farmers’ markets in San Diego.

50. Comic-Con

What started as the Golden State Comic Book Convention, attended by 200 comic book fans in 1970, has burgeoned into the world’s largest annual pop culture festival attended by some 150,000 people.

If you don’t already know all about Comic-Con you’re sure to have seen its legions of cosplayers online or on TV shows.

Held at the San Diego Convention Centre, Comic-Con (roughly speaking) is a four-day extravaganza of seminars, panel Q&As, table reads, workshops, gaming events, award ceremonies, as well as an independent shot film festival, collectibles market, studio/TV company trade exhibition and a cosplay contest.

And where the scope was limited to comics in the festival’s early years, Comic-Con encompasses almost all forms of entertainment, even if there’s still a slight accent on comics and anime.

50 Best Things to Do in San Diego (California):

• Balboa Park
• Embarcadero
• USS Midway Museum
• Food and Drink
• Cabrillo National Monument
• San Diego Old Town
• Old Town San Diego State Historical Park
• San Diego Zoo
• San Diego Harbor Cruise
• Whale Watching
• Little Italy
• La Jolla Cove
• Coronado Beach
• Mission Beach
• San Diego Museum of Art
• Belmont Park
• San Diego Natural History Museum
• Mission San Diego de Alcalá
• San Diego Air & Space Museum
• Gaslamp Quarter
• Birch Aquarium
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
• Torrey Pines Gliderport
• Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
• San Diego Museum of Man
• Hotel del Coronado
• San Diego Zoo Safari Park
• Mormon Battalion Historic Site
• La Jolla Shores Park
• Fleet Science Center
• Pacific Beach
• Maritime Museum of San Diego
• Old Point Loma Lighthouse
• Point Loma Tide Pools
• Liberty Station
• Whaley House Museum
• Children's Pool Beach
• Seaport Village
• Pacific Surfliner
• San Diego-Coronado
• Mission Trails Regional Park
• Old Globe Theatre
• Liberty Public Market
• Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Little Italy Mercato Farmers' Market

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• Destinations

This California Destination Is the 8th Largest City in the U.S. — and It's Home to Casual Beach Towns, Family Theme Parks, and Beautiful Golf Courses

Best Times to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

San Diego, one of 18 cities in Southern California's San Diego County, is the eighth largest city in the United States. Sharing a border with Mexico, San Diego is known for its mild, dry climate, with a year-round temperature average of around 68 degrees F (20 degrees Celsius) and low rainfall, occurring mostly between December and March. Coastal areas are generally cooler than inland parts of the city.

Like most large cities, San Diego encompasses a variety of neighborhoods and communities, including casual beach towns, downtown business areas, and both new and historical sections. Tourism is a major industry, attracting visitors to its 70 miles of beaches, family theme parks and attractions, museums, golf courses, craft breweries, restaurants, and stellar hotels .

San Diego is home to several military installations, dating back to the early 20th century when the U.S. Navy established a base there. The Coast Guard has a base on San Diego Bay, and the U.S. Marines have installations at Miramar and Camp Pendleton. The aircraft carrier U.S.S. Midway is a museum and tourist attraction.

Pacific Standard Time (Daylight Savings Time, seasonal; dates vary)

Moderate temperatures year round along with minimal rainfall make just about any time lovely in San Diego. Summer is beach season, and visitors enjoy sunny weather and warm water in the ocean and bay for water sports like surfing, paddle boarding, swimming, and boating. The sea and air are cooler during winter months, still pleasant for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and walking along the shore.

The San Diego County Fair, an annual event at Del Mar Fairgrounds, was first held in 1880, and the most recent fair saw more than 1,500,000 visitors.

San Diego is a dog-friendly destination, with a variety of hotels, restaurants, parks, beaches, and activities that will welcome your furry friend.

In the town of La Jolla, you can watch the seals and sea lions that have taken over the Children's Pool Beach. They can be seen from the cliffs at La Jolla Cove.

In San Diego, you can find both ocean beaches with waves for surfing and calm bays for easy swimming.

Buses: For bus schedules and information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System website. Refer to the map and timetable to plan your trip. In San Diego's North County, the Breeze System provides service.

Trolley Service: Three trolley lines (blue, orange, green) service downtown San Diego communities and beyond. They run an average of every 15 minutes. For information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System website.

Waterfront Shuttle: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, the Waterfront Shuttle makes eight stops along the Bayfront from Harbor Island to the South Embarcadero near the San Diego Convention Center. For information visit the website.

Mission Bay & Beachfront

The catamaran resort & spa.

Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-1081 Book Now

Tropical landscaping and decor create an elegant atmosphere, and with a patio or balcony in every room, views are guaranteed. Set on a sandy beach on Mission Bay, the resort includes refrigerators, coffee makers, pool, jacuzzi, and bike rentals.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Address: 1404 Vacation Road, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (855) 463-3361 Book Now

This family resort on Mission Bay near SeaWorld features five pools, a mile-long beach, tennis courts, bonfire pits, putting course, beach cruisers, two waterfront restaurants, and a private marina on its 44-acre island. Bungalow-style rooms are set among lagoons and tropical gardens.

Bahia Resort Hotel

Address: 998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-0551 Book Now

The Bahia is set on a private 14-acre peninsula on Mission Bay less than five minutes from SeaWorld. Amenities include a pool, arcade, tennis courts, shuffleboard, beachfront cabanas, and complimentary cruises on the Bahia Belle, its Mississippi-style sternwheeler.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Address: 1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 Phone: (619) 452-3138 Book Now

Located on the tip of Shelter Island near the Point Loma neighborhood, the Kona Kai offers waterfront accommodations, a fitness center, two waterfront pools, and locally sourced cuisine served at Vessel with sea breezes and views.

Hotel del Coronado

Address: 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118 Phone: (619) 435-6611 Book Now

The iconic hotel offers a variety of accommodations including rooms, suites, newly renovated cabanas, and beachfront suites at the Beach Village with patios facing the sand and ocean. A variety of dining venues, shops, and expansive beach make a stay at the Del a memorable experience.

Downtown/Gaslamp District

Manchester grand hyatt.

Address: 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 232-1234 Book Now

This waterfront hotel near Seaport Village offers a resort-like feel in the midst of downtown. Visitors love having views of the sea along with a convenient location and upscale amenities.

Andaz, San Diego

Address: 600 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 849-1234 Book Now

Set in a historic 1913 building and updated in contemporary style, the Andaz offers guestrooms and suites, pool, private cabanas, Andaz Wine Bar, and a rooftop bar and lounge with views of the San Diego skyline.

Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Address: 509 Ninth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (877) 846-3446 Book Now

Conveniently located near the Convention Center and Petco Park, this pet-friendly boutique hotel boasts a roof garden and Level 9 Rooftop Bar with cozy fire pits for chilly evenings.

The U.S. Grant, San Diego

Address: 326 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 232-3121 Book Now

This historic hotel dates to around 1910, and a major renovation retained its vintage style and elegance. Visitors enjoy cocktails in the Grand Grill Lounge or French-inspired Rendezvous Bar. A spa, fitness center, and luxurious guest rooms and suites make it a popular choice.

Pendry San Diego

Address: 550 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 738-7000 Book Now

This modern hotel offers a spa, rooftop pool, and several dining and entertainment venues, including a beer hall and fine dining restaurant. The Pool House, their rooftop lounge, provides poolside service and sunset views from the pool or hot tub.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 453-4420 Book Now

The elegant Lodge offers early California Craftsman style with expansive public spaces with fireplaces, overstuffed furniture, leather chairs, and views of the Pacific and Torrey Pines Golf Course.

La Valencia Hotel

Address: 1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 476-6870 Book Now

Set atop the La Jolla Cove among fashionable shops, galleries, and beaches, the Mediterranean-style La Valencia, nicknamed "the Pink Lady," offers luxurious accommodations, romantic courtyards, Spanish mosaics, ocean views, and lush tropical landscaping.

La Jolla Shores Hotel

Address: 8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 923-8058 Book Now

Set directly on the beach for a romantic oceanfront stay, the hotel's amenities include an outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, year-round kayaking, s’mores nights, bike rentals, and yoga classes. Savor Baja-inspired coastal cuisine and epic ocean views at The Shores restaurant.

Estancia La Jolla

Address: 9700 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 318-7602 Book Now

The hotel is set among nine acres of lush gardens, featuring a spa, saltwater pool, and outdoor wellness activities and yoga classes. Its prime location near elegant La Jolla's attractions and University of California San Diego make it an attractive destination.

Inland - Mission Valley and Old Town

Town and country san diego.

Address: 500 Hotel Circle N, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 291-7131 Book Now

With a complete renovation, the 1953 property has added a host of new amenities while retaining its mid-century modern charm. A sun-drenched pool complex with the new Twister, a four-story-high water slide, colorful artwork, bright yellow accents, and new furnishings make the hotel a delightful place to stay.

San Diego Marriott Mission Valley

Address: 8757 Rio San Diego Drive, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 692-3800 Book Now

Conveniently located near San Diego State University, Old Town, and SDCCU Stadium, the hotel offers a fitness center and outdoor pool with a waterfall. There's casual dining at DEN and an upgrade available for access to the M Club Lounge featuring complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks.

Downtown, Gaslamp District, and Little Italy

Rustic root.

Address: 535 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

American cuisine with a modern touch and a menu of locally sourced meats, produce, and seafood is their specialty. Craft cocktails and a rooftop with skyline views add to the experience. Reservations are recommended.

Address: 366 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Helmed by Michelin-starred celebrity chef Akira Back, Lumi offers creative Japanese dishes and sushi along with views of the city from his rooftop. Cocktails, Japanese whiskey, and DJ beats provide a lively atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

Herb & Wood

Address: 2210 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 955-8495 Website

The extensive menu includes seafood, meat, salads, pasta, toasts, wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, and a dessert menu that might tempt you to start there first. Brunch is also a treat at this popular spot. Reservations are suggested.

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Address: 1654 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Their menu of shellfish, finfish, chowders, small plates, big platters, lobster, cocktails, beer, and wine along with weekday happy hours make this a popular spot. Reservations are suggested.

Juniper and Ivy

Address: 2228 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 269-9036 Website

Set in a renovated warehouse, the atmosphere is relaxed, and dishes are tasty and artfully presented. Their imaginative food is based on seasonal local ingredients treated to the creativity of a team of chefs. Reservations are recommended.

Born and Raised

Address: 1909 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Elevated steakhouse cuisine with a menu that includes luxurious dry-aged steaks and Wagyu beef. Retro touches like tableside presentation of Caesar salads and steak tartare make for a delicious and entertaining experience. Reservations are recommended.

Civico 1845

Address: 1845 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 431-5990 Website

Civico 1845 serves traditional southern Italian dishes, an expansive menu, and a selection of cheeses and cured meats in addition to a separate vegan menu. Their outdoor patio offers a pleasant spot for al fresco dining. Reservations are suggested.

Little Italy Food Hall

Address: 550 W. Date Street, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 269-7187 Website

Located at the Piazza della Famiglia , the food hall features six food stations and a full bar. Choose to dine on pizza, tacos, pasta, Asian dumplings, or lobster and save room for Bobboi's Natural Gelato for dessert.

Nine-Ten Restaurant and Bar

Address: 910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 964-5400 Website

Recognized with awards for chef Jason Knibb, sommelier Chris Russo, its wine list, cocktails, and more, Nine-Ten serves an eclectic menu of creatively prepared farm-to-table ingredients. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch provide a variety of opportunities to sample its dishes, from salmon benedict in the morning to butternut squash risotto at dinner. Reservations are recommended.

A.R. Valentien

Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 453-4420 Website

Set in an elegant craftsman-style dining room, A.R. Valentien serves regional cuisine overlooking the 18th hole of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the California Coast. Outdoor seating is available, and reservations are recommended.

Address: 1025 Prospect Street, Suite 210, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 459-0040 Website

The breakfast menu includes French toast, blueberry pancakes, chilaquiles, crab cake benedict, omelets, and more served on their ocean-view patio. Choose from the breakfast menu at lunchtime too, or take advantage of their weekday happy hour.

Louisiana Purchase

Address: 2305 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 255-8278 Website

They serve the best of Creole and Cajun classics like gumbo, po' boys, crawfish, catfish, collard greens, and Southern flavors along with cocktails and unique shareable punches.

The Smoking Goat

Address: 3408 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 955-5295 Website

This intimate French bistro has an enthusiastic following of fans of their baked brie and duck fat truffle fries served during happy hour. The dinner menu includes seafood, steak, and lamb with seasonal additions and an extensive wine list.

Shank & Bone

Address: 2930 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 458-9085 Website

Traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes include a selection of pho, spring rolls, bowls, rice dishes, and banh mi sandwiches. The colorful, casual atmosphere includes a large mural, and outdoor tables are available. Reservations are suggested.

Mission Hills

Farmer's bottega.

Address: 860 West Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 458-9929 Website

They serve traditional Italian dishes with a focus on organic, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is vintage, with the rustic feel of a farmhouse. Come for weekend brunch and daily happy hour.

Blue Water Seafood

Address: 3667 India Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 497-0914 Website

This is the place for fresh local seafood, tacos, sandwiches, salads, soups, oysters, and sashimi — all from the nearby seas. There's an Ocean Beach location too.

Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar

Address: 902 West Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 955-8451 Website

They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Weekly specials include Maine lobster Thursdays, Taco Tuesdays, Prime Rib Fridays, and Southern Fried Chicken Saturdays.

Barrio Logan

Address: 2196 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113 Phone: (619) 255-3856 Website

Tacos and street food-style offerings are the specialty at this popular dining spot, and their "not tacos" menu includes ceviche, fries, quesadillas, and more. Sip a margarita, horchata, or michelada, and stop in for weekday happy hours.

Barrio Dogg

Address: 2234 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113 Phone: (619) 546-7889 Website

This popular spot is open all day serving high-quality, organic, 100% Angus beef hot dogs embellished in Chicago, TJ, Asian, Cuban, and German style, along with fries to match. Side dishes include Elotitos sweet corn, nopalitos, and mama's macaroni. Enjoy along with local beers.

Multiple Locations around San Diego

Crack shack.

Address: 2266 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 795-3299 Website

Chicken is their specialty — fried, sandwiched, smoked, grilled, served in bowls and salads and accompanied by Mexican poutine, fries, and biscuits. Other locations include Encinitas, Costa Mesa, Pasadena, and Las Vegas.

Buona Forchetta

Address: 30001 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92102 Website

They serve a full menu including antipasti, salads, pastas, and vegan selections, but their specialty is Pizza Napoletana baked in authentic wood-fired Italian ovens. Locations in the San Diego area include Encinitas, South Park, Coronado, and Liberty Station.

Belmont Park

Address: 3146 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109 Website

Go back in time to an old-style beachside amusement park with rides, arcades, and views of the Pacific. The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster was originally built in 1925, and its restoration in the early 1990s included all new tracks, thousands of board feet of lumber, and two new trains with modern restraint systems. It retains the vintage look of its original era of wooden roller coasters.

While you're at the Mission Beach amusement park, stop for a snack or play a game at the arcade.

Sharyn Umana-Angers/Travel + Leisure

Address: 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 795-5555 Website

Conveniently located in downtown San Diego, this magnificent baseball stadium is home to the Padres, and it's also a venue for concerts, soccer, and special events. A delightful place to watch baseball, the park also provides views of the city and delicious foods including grilled fish tacos, BBQ, burgers, pizza, and of course, hot dogs and ice cream. Visit for a behind-the-scenes tour, sit in the dugout, and see the pressbox, Visitors' Clubhouse, and more.

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Address: 1492 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

The museum features a world-class collection that includes sailing ships, steam-powered ships, and submarines. Sailing ships include the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, and the 555 USS Dolphin, the deepest diving submarine in the world. Permanent exhibits cover sea monster myths, photography, navigation, and lots more.

Cabrillo National Monument

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 Website

This national park celebrates the 1542 arrival of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the U.S. It's a great place for tide pool exploration, hiking, history, and spectacular views of downtown San Diego.

San Diego Zoo

Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 231-1515 Website

This world-famous zoo in Balboa Park houses more than 4,000 animals including giant pandas from China and many rare and endangered species. Take a guided tour on a double-decker bus or a ride on the Skyfari for an aerial view. For a special experience, try the Early Morning Photo Expedition or Sunrise Surprise Stroll before the zoo opens for the day.

SeaWorld San Diego

Address: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (619) 422-4732 Website

SeaWorld's dolphins, orcas, Beluga whales, otters, turtles, penguins, fish, and other sea creatures entertain, educate, and make us appreciate their beauty and value their presence.

You'll also see flamingos, macaws, and have an opportunity to watch animal specialists feed the penguins, sea turtles, and others. Watch sharks from their amazing underwater tunnel.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027 Website

Take a wildlife safari in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck with an expert guide to get a close-up view of a variety of birds and mammals. You can enjoy wide-open views of giraffe herds, rhinos, and a variety of African wildlife in a private cabana with a dedicated host to share stories about the animals. See beautiful cheetahs at Shiley's Cheetah Run on an early morning stroll along with an experienced guide.

Balboa Park

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Balboa Park is home to 17 museums, more than 10 performing arts spaces, nearly 20 gardens, shops, dining spots, and attractions like the carousel, miniature train, and the San Diego Zoo. Start at the Visitors Center to plan your day or days — you could spend a week there and not see it all. Decide on a museum or two, stroll through a garden, and download the Balboa Park app to your smartphone to guide you all day.

Mission Bay Aquatic Center

Address: 1001 Santa Clara Place, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-1000 Website

At one of the world's largest instructional waterfront facilities, you can learn surfing, sailing, water skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, stand up paddleboarding, and more. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, sailboat or other water sports equipment, and if you're new at it, this is the place to learn how to enjoy watersports safely.

U.S.S. Midway Museum

Address: 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 544-9600 Website

This historic aircraft carrier is open for self-guided audio tours and guided tours of the bridge and more. Exhibits include more than 30 restored aircraft, flight simulators, flight deck, admiral's cabin, and more. As a bonus, the flight deck provides views of San Diego's downtown skyline, the San Diego Bay Bridge, and active U.S. Navy ships.

Mission Bay Bike Path

Address: 850 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Website

Nearly 12 miles of flat, scenic paved paths wind around Mission Bay, taking you through public parks and wildlife reserves. You'll ride past SeaWorld and Belmont Park, enjoying the sea breeze and views on the way. Bike rentals are available along Mission Boulevard.

Address: Caesar E. Chavez Parkway at Main Street, San Diego, CA 92113 Website

The historic neighborhood is home to artists, designers, galleries, and a growing display of public art — the largest collection of Chicano murals in the world. Authentic Mexican food is another good reason to visit Barrio Logan. Enjoy homemade tortillas, spicy tacos, refreshing paletas (ice pops), and agua frescas or a local craft beer.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Address: San Diego Avenue at Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA Website

Learn about life in the early days of San Diego in the early 19th century when it began as a Mexican pueblo. Visit the Whaley House Museum, one of only two officially designated haunted houses in California. Enjoy authentic Mexican food, mariachi entertainment, and shopping for souvenirs and snacks.

Swim With Sharks

Address : La Jolla Shores Beach, northern end of La Jolla

When you tell your friends you swam with sharks in San Diego, you might forget to mention that they were harmless Leopard sharks , named for their yellow and black markings. The creatures, from four to five feet long, arrive in early June and peak in numbers during August and September when they seek the abundant food in the warm, shallow water of La Jolla Shores. All you need is a snorkel and swim fins to watch the sharks swim by below.

Coronado Ferry

Address: 990 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 234-4111

A bargain at only $5, this scenic boat ride takes you across the bay to the Coronado Ferry Landing for shopping, dining, and exploring Coronado Island. Enjoy the views and sea air during the 15-minute ride.

Rent a Boat or Take a Boat Tour

In a city bordered by the ocean and home to a huge bay, a cruise is a natural way to see the sights from another perspective. With so many to choose from, you'll find one that's just your speed. Whether you want a sailboat, speedboat, dinner cruise, whale watching trip, or sunset harbor cruise, don't miss a chance to see San Diego from the sea.

Whale Watching

If you visit during the whale migration times of year, you can see the amazing creatures from land or sea. From mid-December through April, more than 20,000 gray whales travel between Alaska and Baja California, passing San Diego on their journey. Blue whales, the largest creatures on earth, can be found off San Diego's coast from mid-June through September. The blue whales travel further out to sea, so a boat tour is a better way to view them.

Hiking in San Diego

The moderate weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and San Diego offers many hiking trails with a range of difficulty. Mission Trails Regional Park , just 12 miles from downtown, provides a variety of hikes as well as Lake Murray. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla is another favorite of hikers who enjoy views of the ocean and the reserve along with wildlife that includes birds, rabbits, mule deer, lizards, and snakes.

Balboa Park Museum Shops

Throughout the park, museum stores and artisans provide the opportunity to take home a prized item, gift, or souvenir. For example, the Spanish Village Arts Center is a community of more than 200 artisans offering paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photographs, prints, baskets, as well as glass, clay, and fiber art. The San Diego Museum of Art store offers books, prints, handmade jewelry, toys, games, and even chocolates in art-decorated tins. The San Diego History Center Museum Store features books, historic photographs, memorabilia, jewelry, and handmade items by local artisans.

Liberty Station

Address: 2850 Womble Road, San Diego, CA 92106 Website

In San Diego's Point Loma community, Liberty Station, once the Naval Training Center dating back to 1923, is now a venue for art, entertainment, dining, and shopping. The multi-use community is home to restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries, museums, office spaces, and parks.

Address: 3725 Paseo Place, San Diego, CA 92130 Phone: (858) 523-2298 Website

You can live, work, and shop at One Paseo, and it's a pleasant place to browse the boutiques or stop for a bite. A variety of specialty shops offer apparel, home decor, beauty and wellness products, swimwear, jewelry, shoes, and more.

Seaport Village

Address: 849 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 530-0704 Website

For waterfront shopping and dining near downtown, Seaport Village offers casual browsing, souvenirs, clothing, and specialty shops. Look for toys, collectibles, games, novelty items, kites, beach apparel, and more. Grab a bite to eat or a glass of wine while you're there.

Westfield UTC (University Town Center)

Address: 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92122 Phone: (858) 546-8858 Website

Recently renovated, this open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination offers luxury brands, excellent customer service, and a family-friendly experience. Nordstrom, Macy's, and more than 200 shops and restaurants make it a favorite with locals and visitors alike.

Fashion Valley

Address: 7007 Friars Road, San Diego, CA 92108 Website

This trendy destination in Mission Valley features Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Macy's, and designer houses like Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo, and Saint Laurent.

Westfield Mission Valley

Address: 1640 Camino Del Rio, North San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 296-6375 Website

This open-air mall features Bloomingdale's Outlet, Nordstrom Rack, Macy's Home, and Vans as well as restaurants and a movie theater.

Las Americas Premium Outlets

Address: 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Diego, CA 92173 Phone: (619) 934-8400 Website

Located about 20 minutes south of downtown San Diego, the outlet mall includes 125 stores in an outdoor courtyard setting. Name brand and designer stores as well as a variety of eateries make it a popular shopping stop.

La Jolla offers beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, luxury hotels, and outdoor recreation. La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve thrives with marine life, and in Torrey Pines, there's hiking and an array of native wildlife. Internationally recognized Torrey Pines Golf Course is nearby.

Gaslamp Quarter is a 16-block area in the historic heart of downtown San Diego, a lively dining, entertainment, and shopping district. More than 100 restaurants, 40 bars and nightclubs, theaters, art galleries, and shops as well as luxury hotels make it a popular destination.

Little Italy was once home to the tuna fishing industry and Italian families who settled there. Now the lively neighborhood is filled with restaurants, pubs, art galleries, and boutiques. India Street is the main thoroughfare, and Kettner Street is the place for new, popular restaurants.

Barrio Logan is home to Mexican street art, focused on Chicago Park beneath the San Diego-Coronado Bridge overpass, where a display of colorful murals are painted on the bridge's pillars. Authentic Mexican food, artist studios, bakeries, and a brewery attract visitors as well.

Hillcrest is located next to Balboa Park, minutes from downtown. The hub of San Diego's LGBTQ+ community, Hillcrest is known for eclectic nightlife, casual dining, chic boutiques, and vintage clothing stores. The main thoroughfares are University Avenue and tree-lined Fifth Avenue.

University Heights , adjacent to Hillcrest, features historic and renovated craftsman-style homes, shopping, nightlife, and dining. Its main thoroughfare, Park Boulevard, is home to popular eateries, shops, and lounges.

Coronado is located across the bay from downtown San Diego. Beaches, shops, and the historic Hotel del Coronado attract visitors. Orange Avenue, Coronado's main thoroughfare, is lined with restaurants, galleries, and theaters.

San Diego is known for its moderate, near perfect climate . Temperatures vary, with warmer areas inland and cooler near the ocean often with morning clouds. Annual precipitation is rarely above ten inches, with the majority occurring between December and March.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 48 - 65 February 65 - 76 March 61 - 73 April 54 - 69 May 67 - 76 June 65 - 75 July 62 - 71 August 59 - 69 September 56 - 67 October 53 - 66 November 51 - 65 December 49 - 65

A variety of smartphone apps are available to make a visit to San Diego convenient and easy.

Balboa Park Official Mobile App is an interactive guide to the park with details on museums, eateries, schedules, and more.

For transportation, apps for Uber and RideYellow make getting around easy.

SpotAngel helps drivers find street parking and understand local rules.

SeaWorld 's app provides GPS navigation, search, show times, and up-to-date wait times for rides.

Legoland 's app provides a park map and overview of rides, shops, dining, and ticket information.

Related Articles

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

With so many things to do (and almost guaranteed great weather to do it in!), planning the perfect trip to San Diego can seem a bit overwhelming.

San Diego is one of the most wonderful cities in the entirety of the United States. With countless things to do, perennially beautiful weather, and a laid-back lifestyle that is instantly infectious, San Diego is one of the most the best places to visit in California .

This itinerary will ensure that you get the most out of your trip to this dynamic coastal city whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation — the only problem is that it’s sure to make you long to return!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in San Diego?

If you’re in the beginning stages of planning your trip to San Diego, you’re likely wondering how many days you should spend in this Southern California city. San Diego is kind of the ultimate tourist destination, especially when compared to Los Angeles , with a seemingly endless array of things to do, so really no matter how long you’re able to spend here, you can ensure that you will always be occupied.

However, there is such a problem as spending too little time in San Diego! The city is massive and full of great activities and if you try to cram too much into too short a time period, you’re likely to burn out and exhaust yourself — not a recipe for a good holiday!

If you only have, say, 2 days in San Diego, then make sure to pace yourself and prioritise what you’d like to see. The 2-day itinerary in this article covers some of the highlights of central San Diego but omits any beach time, so if that’s what has drawn you to the city, then make sure to prioritise what you’d like to do.

Spending 3 days in San Diego or more is ideal as it will allow you to cover a lot of ground, see some sites, but also enjoy some time on the beach — and San Diego has a number of amazing beaches that you don’t want to miss!

If you have time for a 4-day itinerary, then you’re really in luck. This is the ideal amount of time to spend in the city as it allows you to really explore but also gives you a bit of time to relax if that’s what you’re after.

You honestly can’t go wrong if you want to spend more than 4 days because there is just so much to do in the city and the surrounding area. If you have more than four days, you can venture further afield, spend more time on the beach, or even take the time to visit cool places like the San Diego Zoo Safari Park!

Getting To & Around San Diego

San Diego is home to its own international airport and, though small, it serves numerous airlines and has countless direct connections to many US cities, making San Diego an easy destination to reach from the majority of major cities in the United States.

If you’re coming internationally, it’s likely that you will end up flying into Los Angeles . San Diego is about a 2 to 3-hour drive from LA and there are lots of interesting places to visit along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by train in about three hours.

Once in San Diego, it’s easiest to get around the city if you have your own car, but it isn’t entirely necessary, especially if you only plan on spending time in the downtown area.

This area is easy enough to get around on foot and the extensive San Diego Trolley System can take you, inexpensively, to most places a bit further afield.

If you’re keen to venture outside of the downtown area, even to the beaches, then having a car in San Diego is going to prove the most convenient way to get around.

If you’re planning on renting a car before heading to San Diego, we suggest using Rentalcars.com to find great prices. The platform aggregates deals across many major car rental companies and saves you time and money when it comes to hiring a car.

2, 3 or 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary

If you only have two days, spend them exploring some of the highlights of the city. Day 1 concentrates on the sites in Downtown San Diego where day two brings you to Balboa Park, which is chock-full of some of the best of San Diego attractions.

If you’re planning on visiting many of San Diego’s fantastic attractions, consider investing in a San Diego Go City Pass . These city cards can offer up to 50% savings on many attractions across the city and can be an incredible value for money if you visit even just a handful of places.

Day 1 – Explore Downtown

Spend your first day in San Diego exploring the dynamic downtown area. There is so much to see and do in Downtown San Diego that you’re sure to be entertained and having fun all day long.

San Diego Maritime Museum

Start your day along the harbour at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Historically, San Diego has been a very important port and you can learn all about its seafaring history at this super cool museum.

Situated on San Diego Bay, the maritime museum is home to a number of different ships that you can tour and learn about how they worked and functioned back in the day. Visiting this museum is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in San Diego.

The most famous of the ships at the museum is the Star of India , an iron-hulled ship built in 1863 that sailed from Britain to India and New Zealand before being acquired by the US to haul salmon from Alaska to California. This ship is fascinating and really worth exploring.

Also in the collection include the Californian , a beautiful tall ship and the HMS Surprise , which is known for its movie appearances in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Master and Commander .

USS Midway Museum

Another museum on San Diego Bay is the USS Midway Museum and this is another great way to learn more about San Diego as an important Naval base.

Often lauded as one of the top museums in the entirety of San Diego (and there are a LOT of museums in the city!), this museum is actually based on a former aircraft carrier that you can tour and learn more about how an aircraft carrier functions.

In this museum, you can tour the ship itself and see everything behind the scenes, but you can also check out the aeroplanes and even try your hand at a flight simulator!

Both the Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum are excellent places to visit for both kids and adults alike because they’re interactive and educational.

Little Italy

From the Midway Museum, you can easily reach cool and trendy Little Italy on foot, and this is a great area to grab a bite to eat for lunch! Traditionally home to a number of Italian immigrants to San Diego, this area is now one of the most trendy neighbourhoods in the entire city.

Packed with both traditional Italian shops and delis, there are also ultra-hip restaurants, cool boutiques, awesome gastropubs and so much more.

Little Italy is definitely a neighbourhood worth exploring for a little bit as it is incredibly pedestrian-friendly and packed with cool things to see, do and eat! If you’re interested in exploring the culinary history of this cool area, check out this Little Italy food tour!

Seaport Village

Looping back toward the bayside area of downtown, it’s time now to head to Seaport Village.

This is an outdoor shopping centre that is situated directly on the water and it is packed full of restaurants and cool shops. This is the perfect place to pick up some fun souvenirs from your trip to San Diego!

Though there are certainly lots of shops in Seaport Village that shill mass-manufactured tourist souvenirs, there are plenty of local shops where you can pick up unique things as gifts or as mementoes from your trip to this lovely Southern California city.

Gaslamp Quarter

And finally, it’s time to head into one of the most iconic and well-known areas of San Diego’s downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter.

Comprising about sixteen city blocks, this area is known for being home to historic, Victorian-era buildings and the eponymous gaslamps, this district is known to be the foremost nightlife area of San Diego.

There is a lot of history in this picturesque and walkable district, especially considering it fell into complete disarray in the mid-20th century and became synonymous as San Diego’s red-light district.

Starting in the ’80s and ’90s, the district saw some new investments and a resurgence and is now a thriving and safe area of downtown San Diego and home to many iconic landmarks, including the massive Petco Park — home of the San Diego Padres!

The Gaslamp Quarter is ripe for exploring and, if you’re not travelling with kids, it’s also one of the best places to go for a night out in the city. If you’re interested in the culinary scene of this neighbourhood along with learning a bit about its not-so-savoury past, consider going on this food tour of the Gaslamp .

Day 2 – Visit the Attractions of Balboa Park

On your second day in San Diego, it’s time to head to Balboa Park. Home to beautiful gardens, seventeen museums and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, you can easily spend days in Balboa Park and still not see it all.

San Diego Zoo

If you’re an animal lover or travelling with kids, no visit to San Diego is complete without heading to the incredible San Diego Zoo. As the most visited zoo in the entirety of the United States and considered by many to be one of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is a place that you could easily devote an entire day to.

Famous for being one of the few zoos in the US that have successfully bred Giant Pandas (the two pandas that used to call the zoo home, however, have now been repatriated to their ancestral home in China), the San Diego Zoo is home to 650 species and more than 3,500 animals.

With exhibits spanning the entire globe, the zoo has the most koalas outside of Australia, and everything else from monkeys to elephants to polar bears.

So, if you are an animal lover, you absolutely can’t miss the San Diego Zoo.

Visit the Museums

Balboa Park is also famous for its many museums housed within the area and if you and your family aren’t keen to visit the zoo, then make sure not to miss one or two of the many museums located within the park.

My personal favourite museums include the Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Man, the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum, however, there are countless others that encompass everything from science to art and you’re sure to find a museum that suits your own interests.

If you want to visit the zoo and the museums in Balboa Park, this is where the San Diego Go City Pass can come in handy and end up paying for itself, as many of these attractions are included in it.

Explore the Gardens

Balboa Park is also home to some incredibly beautiful botanical gardens and if you’re looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, spending time exploring these gardens is the perfect antidote!

Some of the most beautiful gardens include the Japanese Friendship Garde, the Australian Garden, the Alcazar Garden, the Desert Cactus Garden and the beautiful Botanical Building. Take the time to wander (you can even do a walking tour of the area!) and enjoy the plant life and beautiful landscaping of these gardens — you won’t be sorry!

Day 3 – Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches

If you’re spending three days, it’s time to hit the beach! There are countless beaches in San Diego that all have different things to offer travellers.

Depending on your travel style, pick one beach area to spend the whole day in or take the day to explore the little towns and nature surrounding San Diego’s three main beach areas! For those who aren’t too interested in the beach, you can also use this time to explore Old Town San Diego.

Pacific Beach

The northernmost beach on day three, Pacific Beach is a beautiful, wide expanse of sand and is one of San Diego’s most beautiful beaches. Located just south of La Jolla and a bit north of Mission Bay, Pacific Beach is about a 20-30 minute drive from downtown San Diego, depending on the traffic.

The beach at PB is arguably the main attraction here and it is one of the most beautiful in the city. However, the town around it also has some nice attractions and maintains a classic, Southern California vibe.

There are lots of cool shops, restaurants and cafes that are worth popping into and, of course, you can’t go wrong with splashing around in the Pacific while here.

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is arguably San Diego’s most popular beach area and it really isn’t hard to understand why. The expansive Mission Beach is wide and beautiful, with calm enough waters that make it the perfect place to try your hand at surfing. There is also a great boardwalk area that is lined with various restaurants a surf shops.

Another major attraction of Mission Bay is Belmont Park, a classic seaside amusement park complete with a picturesque wooden roller coaster, countless other rides, arcades and more — the perfect place to entertain both young and old alike!

There are also some great restaurants in MB and the main attractions are very family-friendly, making this beach a great option for those with young kids as everyone is sure to be entertained here!

Ocean Beach

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe on the seaside, then you can’t go wrong with Ocean Beach. A beach suburb located about fifteen minutes from Downtown San Diego, you would be forgiven if you feel as if you’ve been transported back to the 1970s when wandering through this cool area.

This is one of the least touristy of beaches included on this itinerary and it is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a more local, mellow vibe rather than bustline Mission Bay or upscale Pacific Beach.

OB is famous amongst surfers and has some great surf spots and it is also home to some great, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, as well.

All in all, Ocean Beach is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for mellow, hippie vibes.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Located in Ocean Beach just a bit south of the beach itself is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a perfect place to head if you want to, well, watch the sunset.

These dramatic cliffs jut into the Pacific Ocean and provide absolutely stunning views. It is also a very popular area for more experienced surfers as there are large waves at the base of the cliffs.

There are also countless walking trails where you can meander along the cliff edges trying to seek out the perfect view, or you could opt to climb down the steps to the beach area and search for sea creatures in the many tide pools. If you’re fortunate enough, you may see some of San Diego’s many sea lions frolicking in the waves!

Cabrillo National Monument

A bit further afield along Point Loma from Sunset Cliffs lies the Cabrillo National Monument. Boasting many walking trails, tide pooling opportunities, and the potential for excellent views of the entirety of San Diego’s downtown area all the way to the Coronado Bridge.

Here you can also visit the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse and, at low tide, climb down to the sea and hunt for cool sea creatures in the tide pools. This is the perfect place to visit in the city of San Diego if you want to get a bit off the beaten tourist trail and experience some of the best views of the city.

Day 4 – Explore the surrounding area

If you have a full 4 days, there are numerous different options that you could follow. All of these options lie quite a bit further afield from downtown San Diego and each option should have an entire day devoted to it.

Coronado Island

The first way you could spend day four of your San Diego itinerary is to visit the lovely Coronado Island. Located across San Diego Bay and accessible via the iconic Coronado Bridge, this island is home to a charming downtown area, historic architecture, and the famous Hotel Del Coronado.

As the second-largest wooden structure in the United States, this Victorian-Era beach resort is absolutely beautiful and worth exploring even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

Coronado Beach is also, arguably, one of San Diego’s nicest — a vast expanse of sand with fairly calm waters, making it perfect for families. Coronado is also the perfect place to rent a bicycle and pedal along the seaside promenade and enjoy the lovely beachy vibes. You can also get great views of the San Diego skyline from Coronado Island, as well.

Those who want to do more than wander around the hotel or lounge on the beach may like this walking tour of historic Coronado . Or, if you just want to enjoy the beach from a distance, you can take a 2-hour cruise that goes past Coronado.

If you want to be a bit more active and explore one of San Diego’s most beautiful suburbs, then head a bit further north to explore the beautiful La Jolla area. Known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, great restaurants and expensive real estate, La Jolla is an elite neighbourhood but also absolutely gorgeous.

On any given day, you can see people paragliding from the iconic cliffs or kayaking in the waters below. This is the perfect place to explore San Diego from the water’s edge and to check out the sea caves and wildlife that live there.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding through La Jolla Cove are popular activities in the area and you can choose to do a two-hour guided kayaking tour to explore the sea caves or take a surfing lesson.

La Jolla is also home to the well-regarded Scripps Aquarium, where you can check out endemic sea life while staying nice and dry! Nearby, you can also visit Torrey Pines State Reserve, which has a number of great hikes and gorgeous views if you still want to be a bit active.

Day Trip to Baja California

If you’re looking for a complete change of scenery, then consider going on a day trip south of the border to lovely Baja California, Mexico! It is incredibly easy and fun to head to Mexico for a day and you have the opportunity to sample some of the best gastronomy in the world! For example, this full-day tour of Baja California packs a lot if you’re short on time!

Tijuana makes for an incredibly easy day trip as you can reach the border crossing at San Ysidro easily from the San Diego Trolley system and walk across the border in just about ten minutes — just make sure to bring your passport! Alternatively, you can take this intro to Mexico organised tour!

If you’re interested in heading further afield, you can easily hop on a bus to Ensenada , a lovely seaside city about an hour south of Tijuana. Ensenada is famed for being the birthplace of the fish taco and the fresh seafood in the city is second to none.

And finally, if you’re a wine fan, then you may be interested in touring the vineyards in the Valle de Guadalupe, located just inland from Ensenada. This area grows some fantastic wine and you can opt to go on a guided tour or drive yourself there — just make sure that your rental car allows you to cross the border!

Where to Stay in San Diego

Urban Boutique Hotel – Situated in cool and trendy Little Italy in the heart of downtown San Diego, this boutique hotel is a great place to base yourself in this Southern California city. Located within easy walking distance of many major attractions, they have numerous rooms available to suit all kinds of travellers. 

Hotel Del Coronado – One of the most iconic hotels in the country and not just San Diego, if you’re looking for a luxury stay in San Diego, you can’t go wrong with the Hotel Del. This hotel is not only absolutely beautiful and historic, it is situated on the lovely Coronado Beach, as numerous fantastic restaurants on site and also boasts countless other amenities that are sure to make your stay a great one.

Private Rental – Another popular option in San Diego is a private rental. There are countless properties available such as this charming studio in Pacific Beach that is super close to the beach.

California Dreams Hostel   – If you’re travelling to San Diego solo or on a tight budget, this hostel is an excellent choice for you. It is located in Pacific Beach close to numerous attractions in San Diego. They have both dorm and private rooms available and great common areas perfect for meeting other travellers.  

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in San Diego!

Planning the perfect San Diego itinerary isn’t always an easy task with so many things to do in the city. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend in San Diego or have longer to devote to the city, you’re sure to fall in love. Follow these tips to ensure you have an excellent trip to San Diego!

Are you planning to visit San Diego? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

HI Maggie, Great info provided in your blog. I plan to travel in Feb 12-17 to San Diego for Business trip and with few days available with me, I would like to spend time exploring San Diego and Maybe do a quick trip to LA. I may have 12th Feb late afternoon & Feb 13th half day & 17th Full day & 18th Half day Any suggestions. Kindly share, will be helpful.

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Ultimate Travel Guide to San Diego: A Local’s Guide on What to Do, Where to Stay + More

By: Author Robyn Robledo

Posted on Last updated: March 10, 2024

San Diego is as amazing as it sounds. With seventy-degree weather year-round on average and very little rain, a visit to San Diego should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Southern California boasts numerous fantastic beach towns in greater San Diego. This guide helps tailor your visit to fit your travel style perfectly.

This blog covers San Diego neighborhoods, featuring top attractions, dining spots, and accommodation details. For a concise guide on favorite beaches, hikes, and climbs, visit our ‘Outdoor Adventure Guide to San Diego.

Save this for later, pin it!

What’s So Great About San Diego?

I’ve tried to escape San Diego.

I’ve complained about the traffic, the cost of living, and the rat race, but after four years of trying to escape this city for something smaller and with more sharp jagged mountains, I’ve learned to understand why this is America’s Finest City.

I was born and raised in San Diego.  Graduated from SDSU, ran a business in Coronado for 20 years, and delivered all 5 of my babies here. The city has changed a lot over those 43 years, but in many ways, it’s stayed true to its roots.  

I realized I’ve written detailed blogs about various places, but I haven’t tapped into my extensive knowledge about San Diego. With four decades of personal experience, I aim to help you uncover why so many are drawn to America’s Finest City.

San Diego: Surf culture meets Hispanic influence at the southwestern US border. Beyond waves and burritos, discover its diverse allure.

San Diego’s food scene boasts Kombucha and Kava bars, dog-friendly breweries, and cafes selling flowers and succulents, catering to diverse tastes.

Most importantly, don’t just think that all our beaches are the same.

Want to find some sand dollars? Head to Silver Strand at low tide. Want a sandy shore for young kids to play? Head to La Jolla shores. Want to surf a chillwave? Head to Tourmaline. Want to watch the best sunsets? Head to the pier at OB.

When to Visit San Diego

Any time of year is fantastic, but January stands out. Locals might find it chilly with temperatures in the mid-sixties on the coast and rarely any rain.

One of my other favorite times to be in San Diego is November and December, but it does get crowded during the holidays.

San Diego’s ocean stoke: Spring winds challenge surf, aim for sunrise; summer’s mellow waves are perfect for learning.

Shuffle feet in shallow waters at San Diego beaches to avoid stingrays. Seek lifeguard help if stung for hot water treatment.

Getting Around San Diego

San Diego traffic is notorious; avoid beach-to-city drives during peak hours by considering alternate transportation like the train.

More than likely you’re going to want to rent a car when you visit San Diego.

Public transportation via the bus system and trolley isn’t recommended for regular use, except for occasional trips like reaching a Padre Game. Sticking to beach towns such as Pacific or Mission Beach allows for car-free exploration, relying on Uber/Lyft and trendy electric scooters prevalent in these areas.

Use the search box below to find cheap car rentals in San Diego:

San Diego Go Card

In San Diego, numerous free activities like beaches, parks, and hikes abound, but for paid attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, and others, consider the San Diego GO Card for access to nearly 50 sites.

I’ve highlighted many of the GO Card attractions in colored boxes like this one.

San Diego’s Central Neighborhoods

Downtown: gaslamp district + little italy.

Stay in Downtown San Diego for easy access to restaurants, bars, a vibrant farmers market, Petco Park, Seaport Village, and the USS Midway aircraft museum. Don’t miss the ferry to Coronado Island!

If you are looking for some exercise, walk or run along Harbor Drive .

You can even ride the train from Downtown up the coast to Oceanside and not have to deal with San Diego traffic.

If you love adrenaline like I do, then my suggestion would be to get on the water. There are many cool ways to do that here but I think the one that appeals to me most personally is the San Diego Speed Boat Adventures . These 13 foot, 2 passenger boats are super safe and easy to drive, but what I like most is that it’s a self guided tour, which means I can go as fast or slow as I want. The San Diego Speed Boat Adventures is part of the San Diego GO Card.

If you do get out on the water, head out towards the tip of Point Loma. Besides getting views of all the tourist attractions I’ve just mentioned- Navy Ships, Midway, Coronado Bridge, Star of India, and the Seaport Village, there’s a good chance of seeing seal lions and dolphins on your way out and I think the views of Cabrillo National Park from the water are epic. You might even see some whales or surfers in the water out at the point.

A more mellow way to enjoy the San Diego Harbor is on a Hornblower Cruise, which is also part of the San Diego GO Card .

There are so many choices for food in the Gaslamp District and Little Italy. If you are uber health-conscious or vegan, you’ll want to check out Cafe Gratitude. It can be a bit pricey but they have delicious and unique vegan meals.

Now, if you don’t have dietary restrictions and you want a delicious, affordable meal, head to Filippis in Little Italy (there are 13 other locations spread out in San Diego too).

For coffee, check out James Coffee Co . This dog-friendly, totally hipster coffee shop has great coffee and a chill vibe.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by James Coffee Co. (@jamescoffeeco) on Oct 8, 2019 at 8:12am PDT

Ironically, I think the Princess Pub (yep, it’s an English Pub) has the absolute best fish tacos so if you’re in the mood for that you might want to check it out however, the other food is pretty average.

Little Italy is also famous for its numerous wine restaurants and bars .

This San Diego neighborhood is the place to go for Mexican heritage, historical sites, colorful shops, and eclectic restaurants. Two fun, popular (and crowded) events here each year are Cinco de Mayo and the Day of the Dead festival.

My favorite part of Old Town is the Fiesta del Reyes section of Old Town. It’s home to one of our favorite chocolate shops, Nibble , which not only sells the best chocolate but also has amazing coffee drinks.

You can also sign up here for a tequila, Tacos, and Culinary Tour of Old Town.

You have to make time for Point Loma’s Sunset Cliffs , an obviously great spot to watch the sunset, but I think equally wonderful at sunrise. One of my favorite things to do in Point Loma is go for a run along Sunset Cliffs.

I love surfing here when the swell is big. Tide plays a big factor though for both surfing and exploration so make sure you are aware of if the tide is coming up or down. Note though that this is not a good place for kids to play since the tide can rise quite fast.

A better option for tide pooling would be Cabrillo National Monument or if you don’t want to pay the entrance fee there, La Jolla Cove also has great tide pooling. Check here for the tide schedule.

Point Loma has an abundance of options at Liberty Station .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Liberty Station (@libertystation) on Dec 18, 2019 at 5:40pm PST

Besides the Liberty Public Market , which is a huge European Market like Torvehallerne in Copenhagen , there’s the popular brewery, Stone Brewing Co , 50’s themed Corvette Diner , Trader Joe’s , and great cafes.

North + South Park

This is where you’ll want to head to if you want to see the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. It’s also a great place to check out San Diego’s hipster restaurants, cafes, and breweries.

If you love animals, you can’t miss the San Diego Zoo . Growing up and getting to go here so often might have made me a little jaded about how amazing our zoo is. In the summer, the nighttime attractions are extra fun for kids and grown-ups alike.

If you can visit The Zoo during the school year on a non-holiday, you will love getting up close encounters with the animals. Remember they are more active in the morning and evening when the temperature is cooler so try to plan your trip accordingly.

The San Diego Zoo is big and will require a full day to take it in. You might want to consider paying for the bus tour if you don’t feel up for a day of intense hiking because there are a lot of hills here.

If you choose to visit the San Diego Zoo, it might be worth getting the San Diego GO Card.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by balboapark (@balboapark) on Aug 20, 2019 at 3:34pm PDT

Balboa Park is very pretty and a great spot for photos and enjoying a picnic. The museums are great but can be crowded on the weekends and in peak summer so if this is high on your priority list, get here right when it opens. Parking can also be challenging during those peak times.

The museums can be quite expensive when paid for individually but are part of the San Diego GO Card .

You have so many great food choices in North Park off University Avenue and El Cajon Blvd.

My favorite is Tiger! Tiger! for craft beer and pork sandwiches, although there are a lot of other great specialties on their menu. For thin-crust pizza and beer go to URBN North Park .

There’s also City Tacos for Mexican food, Poki One N Half , Street Side Thai Kitchen , and the famous Chicken Pie Shop .

For breakfast, check out the Mission North Park or Breakfast Republic .

For coffee, my absolute favorite is Dark Horse Coffee Roasters . If you love chocolate, make sure to try their mocha. And if succulents and flowers are your thing, you have to check out Communal Coffee . There’s Figaro Dessert Cafe nearby, which I haven’t tried but looks delicious.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by C O M M U N A L C O F F E E (@communalcoffee) on Nov 26, 2019 at 6:00am PST

When it comes to breweries I love Mike Hess , Modern Times , and Thorn St Brewing . You’ll have to try them all and decide which your favorite is.

In South Park, all the locals I talk to agree that hands down the best place to eat is Buona Forchetta . It’s the place to go for upscale Italian food and their wine list is incredible!

I’m usually drawn to breweries so my recommendation is Station Tavern if you’re craving beer and burgers or Hamilton’s Tavern for beer and brats.

Last, for live music and nightlife, check out a show at The Observatory .  See upcoming events here.

Where to Stay near Downtown + Central San Diego

If you’re looking to be as close as possible to the nightlife and restaurants, you’ll want to stay as close to the Gaslamp District as possible.

• For budget options, try HI Downtown Hostel Good Nite Inn , or ITH Adventure Hostel
• For mid-range try the Pacific Inn and the Hampton Inn Downtown
• For luxury accommodation stay at Sonder – The William Penn or Staypineapple in Gaslamp.

If you are traveling with kids, you’ll probably prefer staying near one of the Beach Neighborhoods listed below instead.

San Diego’s Central Beach Neighborhoods

All three of these beach neighborhoods–Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, and Pacific Beach–are my recommended places to stay on your first visit to San Diego .  From all three of these neighborhoods, you can walk, bike, or rent a scooter to get around.

It’s really not that important to see all three so I suggest you pick one and immerse yourself in its unique beauty.  There are public restrooms at all of these beaches, plenty of food options, and are still close to all the attractions listed in the above section.

Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is my fav . If you want an authentic San Diego surf town vibe, this is where it’s at. I mean, you can go up to La Jolla and Encinitas (and I do love Cardiff), but they are missing that down-to-earth SoCal vibe that you’ll get here.

PB may be known as the party town of San Diego but for the majority of the day, it isn’t true. I spend most days in PB when I’m in San Diego and don’t let the few PB crazies make you nervous. They’re harmless and if you want to avoid them, stay away from Starbucks by Grand Ave, which shouldn’t be a problem since PB has so many great coffee shops.

When I just want the best quality coffee, I go to Birdrock Coffee on Garnet (although there are other locations). If you want to sit down for coffee and some food (best scones here) then go to Brick and Bell on Cass St.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (@birdrockcoffeeroasters) on Jan 14, 2020 at 8:05am PST

Millennials might like Better Buzz which has 3 different locations within Pacific Beach. The vibe is cool but I won’t go there because it’s overly trendy, and corporate (we prefer to support local small business), and I think the coffee is mediocre. But if you like spending $10 for good avocado toast, go for it.

Hit up the Trader Joe’s in PB right when you arrive; grab avocados, sun-dried tomatoes, and sourdough for a week’s worth of savings!

I love surfing by Crystal Pie r or in front of Law Street and when the waves get too heavy, I go a bit further north to a great beginner-friendly break, Tourmaline .

Even if you don’t surf you’ll love walking the stretch of beach or boardwalk from Tourmaline to the pier. If you keep walking south you’ll end up in Mission Beach and can easily rent a scooter or Uber to bring you back.

There are so many great places to eat in PB that I can’t narrow it down to the top few, but I will say, the better restaurants are not on the beach. For the best meals, you need to check out restaurants a few blocks away from Mission Blvd.

Mission Beach

Between PB and OB is Mission Beach, which is lined with restaurants, surf shops, bike rentals, and bars. I rarely go here so I can’t fully vouch for it. Mission Beach combines the classically touristy California boardwalk with a beachfront amusement park, Belmont Park.

Belmont Park is also part of the Go Card and gives you unlimited rides on the rollercoaster, access to laser tag, sky ropes, mini-golf, and two turns on the zip line.

If you surf, check out the south jetty, but all along the beach is good for newbies on a fuller tide (stick to a 3-foot tide or bigger). There’s also the wave pool here by Belmont Park.

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is adjacent to Mission Beach and Pacific Beach and also where you’ll find SeaWorld. This is where I live half the year and growing up this was my favorite place in San Diego to go.

Weekends get crowded but during the week the vibe is super chill.

Enjoy morning runs, picnics, and kids’ play at campgrounds. Rent bikes for Bay and Fiesta Island tours. End with bonfires, Sea World fireworks at Mission Bay, Fiesta Island, or Ski Beach (my fave).

Note that the gate to Fiesta Island is locked each night at 10 pm. Many vans and RVs stay parked overnight even though it’s technically not allowed but occasionally police roll through and ticket everyone. It’s up to you if you want to roll the dice.

If you want a nice bike ride or long run, park at De Anza Cove on Mission Bay and follow the sidewalks all along Mission Bay. You can even get to OB, MB, and PB on the bike routes.

Sea World, also on the Go Card , is in Mission Bay and if you visit in the summer, you may want to look into signing your kids up for a week-long Sea World camp while you and your spouse get some adult time to explore America’s Finest City.

Ocean Beach

While you will see a lot of people living out of their cars here and there is no shortage of dreadlocks and guitars strumming, OB is the safe, fun, and fairly affordable area to stay in. 

One of my favorite things to do in OB is watch the sunset from Wonderland Bar. If you are traveling with a dog, Dog Beach in OB is where it’s at.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wonderland Ocean Pub (@wonderlandoceanbeach) on Dec 30, 2019 at 3:00pm PST

I love surfing here! Here are some tips if you come here to shred:

• The jetty, on the north side by Dog Beach, is a fast right and you must respect the locals.
• If you’re a newbie, stick to the waves directly in front of dog beach.
• Intermediate surfers will like Avalanche, the jetty in the center of the beach, or surfing the Pier.

Where to Stay near Central San Diego Beaches

If you are looking for a centrally located and affordable hotel to stay at in San Diego, check out these:

• Best budget: California Dreams Hostel + ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel
• Best mid range (beachfront): Pacific Terrace Hotel and Surfer Beach Hotel in PB + Ocean Villa Inn in Ocean Beach + Campland On the Bay campground on Mission Bay
• Best luxury: Tower 23 Hotel at the PB pier + Blue Sea Beach Hotel on the Mission Beach Boardwalk

San Diego’s North County Beach Neighborhoods

If you want less grunge and a more upscale beach scene, then La Jolla, Del Mar, or Encinitas are where you want to be.

If you like shopping, fancier restaurants, and gorgeous views, stay in La Jolla. There are two parts to La Jolla and they aren’t really easy to walk from one to the other. 

La Jolla Cove is where the seals are on the beach and is within walking distance of all the great restaurants and shopping. 

La Jolla Shores: Perfect for families and beginner surfers. Enjoy ample amenities, and gentle waves, but arrive early for parking.

Within walking distance, there are great places to eat and do a little shopping.  You’ll also find places to rent surfboards and sign up for surf lessons or kayaking tours.

If you have the GoCard , you can rent a surfboard for free at Bike and Kayak in La Jolla.

Another nice spot to check out is Windansea .  It’s not the best beach for kids, but it’s a gorgeous beach to chill at and to take pictures at sunset.  We love surfing here but it is not a beginner’s wave.

Between La Jolla and Del Mar is Torrey Pines . This is a beautiful place to hike and bike riding up Torrey Pines Road is a popular thing to do in San Diego. The views from Torrey Pine’s Gliderport are amazing and if you feel adventurous, you can do some hang gliding over the coast from here.

Del Mar is a great place to spend a few hours shopping and eating.  There are also really good surf breaks all along the Del Mar coast but they are not great for beginners.

If you want a family-friendly beach, it’s probably easier to pay to park at Seaside State Beach which is just north of Del Mar. It’s $10 for the day but then you don’t have to worry about fighting parking and there are bathrooms. The only bad thing is there aren’t a lot of food options within easy walking distance.

Solana Beach, Cardiff + Encinitas

Cardiff (or Encinitas) is runner-up for my favorite place in San Diego. You have everything here from surf shops and yoga studios to some of San Diego’s best gastropubs, açaí bowls, and coffee shops.

Solana Beach’s Cedros Design District boasts unique shops, Belly Up Tavern, and local favorites like Lofty Coffee. Highway 101 offers surf shops and diverse dining options, including Pizza Port.

Carlsbad + Oceanside

For a first trip focusing on San Diego highlights, consider staying in Encinitas or further south to avoid heavy traffic. Carlsbad and Oceanside offer great alternatives if skipping downtown, PB, the Zoo, or Balboa Park.

If you have kids under 10 years old, Legoland could be what brings you to Carlsbad. It’s also on the Go Card .

Where to Stay near North San Diego Beaches

• Best budget: Coronado Inn (or camp on the Silver Strand) + Sand Castle Inn
• Best midrange and most scenic: The Loews Coronado Bay Resort + Hotel Marisol Coronado
• Best luxury: Pier South Resort + Glorietta Bay Inn

San Diego’s South County Beach Neighborhoods

Coronado’s appeal for first-time San Diego visitors varies: skip for adventure, embrace beach luxury, dining, and boutique shopping.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The San Diego Union-Tribune (@sandiegouniontribune) on Jan 2, 2020 at 1:37pm PST

The Hotel Del Coronado is beautiful and I think running the beach in front of the hotel at low tide is one of my favorite parts of Coronado.

There’s a narrated trolley tour that you can take and if you are a history buff, you’ll probably love this.

Consider heading south to Silver Strand State Beach for a great spot to explore with kids or enjoy nature. At low tide, it’s perfect for walking or running, and I’ve found countless sand dollars along this stretch during my two years here.

For top-notch beer and burgers, head to Leroy’s Kitchen and Lounge. Enjoy a classic dinner breakfast at Clayton’s Coffee Shop. For protein-packed meals, try Lil’ Piggy’s Bar-B-Q. Satisfy your sweet tooth with French pastries from Tartine’s French Bakery.

Imperial Beach

Discover Imperial Beach’s culinary scene with must-visit spots: Coronado Brewing Company for great beer and SEA 180 for stunning ocean views and delicious food.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SEA180° Coastal Tavern (@sea180coastaltavern) on Aug 22, 2019 at 3:49pm PDT

There’s also Big Kahuna’s for cheap Hawaiian cuisine, Philippi’s Italian restaurant, Aroma Thai, and The Brigantine for seafood.

I love IB but I would still recommend the Central San Diego Beaches of Imperial Beach.  The biggest reason that I’d choose further north as opposed to Imperial Beach is if you plan on getting in the ocean due to how polluted the water is.

I know Wildcoast is working hard to fix this but I think it’s important to know that the pollution from the Tijuana River does cause beach closures in South Bay often , especially after any rainfall. If you aren’t planning on going in th water, then you’re good. 

Where to Stay near South San Diego Beaches

For an authentic Imperial Beach stay, Pier South Resort offers beachfront rooms, stunning sunset views, a pool, spa, and exceptional dining at Sea 180. Hotel Del Coronado, iconic but pricey, offers a taste of 50’s luxury if desired.

Other recommendations in Coronado and IB include:

North County Inland

North County Inland consists of the neighborhoods of Poway, Escondido, Ramona, and Julian. Some of the residential areas near here include Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, and Rancho Santa Fe. 

There are three main draws to this area.

My favorite is to hike Iron Mountain , but it can get crowded on the weekends so keep this in mind. My favorite way to hike this is starting in the dark about 1 hour before sunrise and then watching the sunrise from the top.

Another popular hike is to Potato Chip Rock . Again, it can be super crowded but if you’re dying to hike it’s a good option.

The third is to visit the Wild Animal Park, which is also part of the San Diego GO Card .

There are a few other cool things to do out here that are in our Hiking Adventures Near San Diego blog.

South Bay Inland

Explore Victor’s former South Bay neighborhood – Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, and Eastlake. Exercise caution, avoiding night walks and road rage for safety.

With that being said, I wouldn’t recommend any tourist stay in South Bay. 

Gentrification revitalized many areas, like Chula Vista with its craft breweries. However, staying there means being distant from my recommended activities. Eastlake offers pleasant Airbnb options amidst its suburban landscape. Yet, it’s packed with strip malls and fast-food joints, leading to traffic jams.

On the other hand, I would recommend Imperial Beach , especially staying at Sea 180.

Two things I do love in the South Bay though are Aquatica, the water park, and the concert venue currently called North Island Credit Union (it seems to change ownership every year).

This is a fun concert venue that we often take our kids to. I like that the seats in the grass are affordable and that even from here you can see the stage pretty well. Plus, the sunsets right before the concerts get going are quite amazing. If you want to save a lot of money, get there early to tailgate since the food and alcohol inside is pricey. Check here for a list of upcoming concerts.

Aquatica (formerly known as Knott’s Soak City) is also on the GO Card.

East County Inland

I purchased a 2003 Ford F350 Diesel truck and found my place in East County. While summers sizzle into the 90s or low 100s from July to October, the rest of the year is delightful. La Mesa, El Cajon, Santee, and Lakeside make East County an excellent base for exploration. Opt for La Mesa’s central location or consider the unique floating cabins at Santee Lakes Campground for camping. BNS Brewery and Distillery, a haven for country music lovers, offers live music, drinks, and outdoor games, and often hosts food trucks, making it a perfect spot for families.

Camp Smart: If camping at Santee Lakes, book in advance and consider the floating cabins for a unique experience.

One of the hidden gems in East County is Mission Trails . It has some pleasant hikes and a few challenging ones like Cowles Mountain, which can be insanely crowded (kinda a theme for hiking in San Diego). I think the best thing to do at Mission Trails is rock climb . If you don’t have gear or know how to climb, ask my friend Caleb at Stoneman Climbing about guiding you here for the day.

If you go further east, past East County, you’ll find the neighborhoods of Alpine, Pine Valley, Ramona, and Julian.  These areas offer some great hikes, mountain biking, camping, and cool historic main streets with a fun hick vibe. 

If you go a little further east than this, you’ll go over the mountains and drop into the desert of Ocotillo.  If you visit from November through April, I’d highly recommend spending a night or two out here.  Check out this blog for our favorite hikes and camping in Ocotillo and Ramona .

What About Tijuana

I used to go to TJ with Victor to party before we could drink legally in the States. Victor’s family loves the amazing and cheap food and drinks there! Here’s a list of some of the places our friend who lives in Tijuana recommends:

More Fun Things To Do In San Diego

Other fun things to do In San Diego include:

• Take a San Diego highlights tour of historical landmarks
• Or sign up for a walking tour
• Sign up for a scavenger hunt (we did this once in downtown and had a blast)
• Tour San Diego by sea on the Seal Tour
• If you’re here on the one day it rains out of the year, do an Escape Room

>>>Click here to sign up for any of these fun tours and events<<<

San Diego Summary

San Diego’s near-perfect year-round weather makes it a perfect vacation destination. Get a San Diego Go Card and check out all the rad tourist spots or go for the budget vacay and enjoy BBQs, bonfires, and walks on the bay and beach. Either way, San Diego will be one trip you’ll never forget!

Follow the Adventure

After living in the San Diego rat race for so long, we said forget this and bought a 30-foot motorhome to live out of.

Half the year we live in San Diego while the other half we are out exploring the world. Follow along on our adventures on Instagram and message us if you’re in the SD area and want to meet up!

Related Blogs:

• 10 Fun Itineraries West Coast Road Trips
• Guide to Surfing the California Coast
• Weekend Hiking Trip from San Diego
• Outdoor Adventure Guide to San Diego
• Best Coffee Shops In San Diego

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57 Best & Fun Things To Do In San Diego (California)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Last updated: July 8, 2024

More than 35 million people visit San Diego each year, and they all go for something different.

Some flock to the beaches and their high-rise condos and resorts; others are more interested in the quirky, funky places that house the city’s art, food, fashion and music.

Why are you interested in San Diego?

Are you going for the cruises or the cocktails?

Are you dying to see the baseball stadiums or the sunken submarines?

Maybe you want to experience it all. That’s okay, too.

We can help with planning your trip until your itinerary is just the way that you want it.

Are you ready to explore one of the finest vacation spots in the United States?

Here are 57 things to do in San Diego, California!

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is one of the most photographed destinations in San Diego, and once you’re snorkeling underwater with a school of bright, colorful fish darting all around the bubbles, you’ll understand why.

The water is beautiful. The beaches are tropical.

Local marine life includes everything from starfish to sea lions, and the landscapes range from sandy cliffs to grassy hills and slopes.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of cool things to do at La Jolla Cove, too.

It’s a popular site for swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, biking and picnicking.

Since it’s part of a marine refuge area, there are restrictions against things like motorized boats, but you’ll find plenty of entertainment elsewhere.

Consider a trip to La Jolla Cove if you have a water-resistant camera and a love for photo ops.

You’ll definitely fill your reel in a place like this!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address: 31100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037, United States

Looking for more thrills around La Jolla? Be sure to check out some of the things to do in La Jolla .

2. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo

You’ve been to zoos before, but you’ve never been to the San Diego Zoo .

Home to more than 3,500 animals, the San Diego Zoo is considered one of the best in the world.

Tigers stalk around canyons. Monkeys swing from trees. Birds and butterflies flutter in open-air houses.

You don’t have to feel guilty about your patronage, either.

The San Diego Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation, so your money is going to a good cause.

In fact, they actually pioneered the “cageless” habitat design that would later become standard in zoos.

Do you love animals? Do you want to enjoy tours, shows, rides, theaters and aerial trams?

The San Diego Zoo offers such a good time that it’s basically a vacation within a vacation, so you’ll definitely want to stop by while you’re in California.

Address:  2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

3. iFLY San Diego

iFLY San Diego

Sky diving is one of the most fun things to do in San Diego, and you don’t even need a plane.

With indoor skydiving facilities like iFLY , you can experience all of the thrills with none of the risk!

The secret lies in their wind tunnel.

Built with revolutionary technology, it mimics the sounds, speeds and sensations of a death-defying dive, but you’ll actually just float in an enclosed tunnel.

There will even be flight instructors nearby to supervise.

Kids and adults are both welcome at iFLY.

There are some age restrictions for very young children, but even if they aren’t allowed in the wind tunnel, they can appreciate the demonstrations, snacks, simulations and more.

If you’re looking for cool things to experience on your vacation, stop by iFLY.

It isn’t the only indoor skydiving facility in California, but it’s one of the best, and it’s centrally located near San Diego for those who are vacationing there.

Address:  2385 Camino Del Rio N, San Diego, CA 92108, United States

4. MooTime Creamery

MooTime Creamery ( Wayne Hsieh / flickr )

Locals have been going to MooTime Creamery for generations.

Despite its popularity, it retains a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere that will take you right back to the days of neighborhood ice cream shops.

It’s the kind of place where you and your own kids can form a new tradition.

Flavors rotate daily and include the classics as well as fun, creative inventions like “brownie batter” and “black raspberry chunk.”

You can order old-fashioned cones or new-school novelties like waffle tacos and cookie sandwiches.

Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the place is always packed, so you’ll want to get there early.

Another option is to grab your frozen dessert and enjoy it on a stroll through San Diego’s sunny streets!

California can get hot.

Use the MooTime Creamery to cool yourself down amidst fun flavors and vintage-style charm.

Address:  1025 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, United States

5. Downtown San Diego

Downtown San Diego

With everything from hole-in-the-wall diners to luxurious spas and resorts, downtown San Diego is one of the most fun, diverse places in the city.

Whether you’re traveling for work or leisure, you can find plenty of activities to show you a good time.

Bars and clubs are there for the hopping.

Symphonies and orchestras can offer amazing date nights.

If you’re into history, there are gaslamp historical quarters teeming with museums, monuments and landmarks.

If you’re more modern, there are trendy cafes and glitzy boutiques located in parks, plazas and shopping malls.

The list of things to do in downtown San Diego is so large that it could be its own list, so trust us when we say that it’s a bustling place filled with possibility.

If you’re thinking about what to do on your San Diego vacation, downtown is an absolute must.

Check out these awesome things to do in downtown San Diego!

Visiting other parts of California? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Santa Cruz & things to do in Orange County !

6. Balboa Park

Balboa Park

You can’t visit San Diego without a trip to Balboa Park .

Packed with trails, gardens, museums, zoos, theaters, concert stages and recreational facilities, it’s one of the biggest tourist attractions in the entire state of California.

Nature lovers can stroll through dozens of landscapes that include everything from lily ponds to zen gardens.

History buffs can take tours through museums, memorials, art houses, science centers and cultural institutes.

Do you like culture? Someone is always hosting an open-air concert or theater production.

Do you like games? There are ballparks, bowling alleys and remote-controlled racetracks.

There are even fun and unique places to visit like archery ranges!

There are so many cool places to see in Balboa Park that you might need to plan a second vacation just to experience it all.

It’s easily one of the best things to do in San Diego, California, so give yourself plenty of time to explore it!

Check out this awesome walking tour in Balboa Park here.

Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

7. 10 Barrel Brewing Company

10 Barrel Brewing Company (San Diego)

Vacations can be stressful. If you need to crack open a cold one to relieve some stress, visit the 10 Barrel Brewing Company .

Located inside a two-story warehouse, this microbrewery is the definition of “industrial chic.”

Gigantic windows cast sunshine over hardwood floors; ceilings have light bulbs hanging from exposed wood beams and criss-crossed metal tracks. Outside, a rooftop bar is always packed with people.

If crowds aren’t your thing, you don’t have to be near them.

You can go to the brewery for nothing more than its collection of craft beers.

They have so many to choose from that you could get drunk just by sampling different kinds!

The 10 Barrel Brewing Company is one of the best spots to grab a beer in San Diego.

In a city with hundreds of bars and brewpubs, it stands out from the crowd for both style and substance.

Address:  1501 E St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

8. Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Situated on top of a cliff, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse used to be the most elevated lighthouse in the United States.

It was so tall, in fact, that the clouds often hid it from view, so lighthouse keepers would fire shotguns at approaching ships to keep them away.

Things are much less dramatic now, but the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is still great in terms of San Diego attractions.

You can take a tour, explore the grounds, visit the on-site museum and catch a show from historical re-enactors.

On the lighthouse’s birthday, the actual tower is open to the public, so you can climb the steps and gaze at San Diego from on high.

You won’t want to miss the Old Point Loma Lighthouse if you’re a fan of fun landmarks and monuments.

Just the fact that it’s still standing is a testament to its strength!

Give it a visit while you’re touring the California coast.

Address:  1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, United States

9. Belmont Park

Belmont Park

It’s hard to miss Belmont Park .

With a gigantic wooden roller coaster that winds around the San Diego coastline, it’s the kind of destination that will stop you right in your tracks.

The roller coaster is just the beginning.

For high-octane fun, you’ll have your choice of slides, carousels, ziplines, tilt-a-whirls, vertical plunges and bumper cars.

For entertainment on the ground, there are things like laser tag and mini-golf.

There’s even an old-fashioned arcade for adults who enjoy the nostalgia!

If the sights don’t get you, the sounds and smells will.

Belmont Park is the kind of place where pretzels are always cooking and grand prizes are always jingling.

It’s a must do for folks who aren’t afraid of color, noise, food, fun and excitement.

To unleash your inner child in San Diego, take a trip to Belmont Park.

It’s one of the hottest tourist spots in the state, and it’ll leave you breathless from the sun and the rides!

Address:  3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

10. The Casbah

The Casbah ( Tristan Loper / flickr )

Are you ready to rock the casbah ?

This entertainment venue is one of the best in San Diego, especially if you’re a fan of live music.

It has live performances at least 5 – 6 times per week!

Some are indie bands that you won’t recognize.

Others are famous names like Alanis Morissette and Blink-182.

The Casbah even hosted Nirvana back in the day, so it isn’t some rinky-dink stage; it’s one of the major points of interest of San Diego.

A full bar keeps the alcohol flowing.

A lounge area offers a pool table and other amenities.

There’s even a semi-secret room that’s only opened during sold-out shows when the space is needed, so there are actually benefits to going when there’s a crowd!

If you’re wondering what to see in San Diego, California, stop by the Casbah for some beer, billiards and bands.

It isn’t a place to bring the kids, but it can provide adults with a lot of fun.

Address:  2501 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Traveling to other parts of California? Why not check out our lists of things to do in San Jose , things to do in Palm Springs  & things to do in Anaheim ?

11. Cedros Avenue Design District

Cedros Avenue Design District

If you like to explore off the beaten path, let your wandering feet take you to the Cedros Avenue Design District in San Diego.

It has more than 80 vendors packed into 2.5 blocks, and most of them are local, independent artisans who specialize in homemade goods and trendy services.

Book lovers will appreciate the collections of rare and secondhand volumes.

Fashionistas will enjoy the boutiques and street stalls that sell everything from jewelry to luxury footwear.

Health nuts will appreciate the juice bars, smoothie stands and tea shops.

The atmosphere ranges from thrifty to upscale.

The businesses can be fun and trendy or old, battered and authentically vintage.

The Cedros Avenue Design District is one of the most unique things to do around the San Diego region.

There’s simply nowhere else in the city like it.

If you’ll be in town, you’ll definitely want to drop by and pick up a souvenir or two.

Address: Cedros Avenue, Solana Beach, CA 92075, United States

12. Embarcadero

Embarcadero

Located just a few miles from downtown San Diego, Embarcadero is one of the busiest waterfront destinations in California.

It has plenty of tourist attractions, including a floating maritime museum, but it also boasts a rich and colorful history as a port.

People have been flocking to Embarcadero for generations.

In the old days, they fished off its piers and docked along its harbors; today, they’re more likely to go dining, shopping, cruising or sightseeing.

The seafood is fresh. The attractions are awesome.

The bars and restaurants are always lively, and if you visit during the summer months, there’s a festival just about every week.

Consider a trip to Embarcadero if you’re looking for fun things to do in San Diego along the coast.

There’s a reason why it’s considered one of the top sites in California!

Address: Harbor Drive between Market and Grape streets Broadway Pier, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

13. Spanish Village Art Center

Spanish Village Art Center

The Spanish Village Art Center offers a sensational collection of art.

For starters, it has a constant rotation of artists who work with felt, paint, metal, beads, photos, glass and clay.

There’s always something new to see even if you’ve visited before, so the locals of San Diego enjoy it just as much as the tourists.

Thanks to the diversity of its artists, there’s also a lot of variety in its subject matter.

The displays range from sharply critical contemporary paintings to soft and mellow vintage-style prints.

A global atmosphere is very much present.

Stop by the Spanish Village Art Center for a trip into the imaginations of diverse international artists.

Their work is the definition of creativity, and you’ll have a blast as you explore it.

You can travel the world without ever leaving San Diego, California!

Address:  1770 Village Pl, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

14. San Diego Air and Space Museum

San Diego Air and Space Museum

Have you ever seen the planet from a bird’s eye view?

At the San Diego Air and Space Museum , it’s not just possible; it’s a standard feature.

This museum offers all kinds of pictures, videos, displays, exhibits and models that celebrate the intersection of science and technology.

The halls are filled with reproductions of aircraft and spacecraft.

The galleries immortalize the names and faces of pilots, astronauts, engineers and other important people in the field.

There are even interactive portals where you can watch a rover in action or snap a selfie in a space suit!

If you’ve ever watched The Martian and dreamed about having Matt Damon’s job, the San Diego Air and Space Museum is your chance to get up close and personal with the skies.

It’s easily one of the best places to visit in San Diego.

Address:  2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

15. Lake Hodges

Lake Hodges

With an activity roster that includes everything from kayaking to barbecuing, Lake Hodges is one of the most fun places in California.

It’s about a half-hour drive from San Diego, so you’ll need to be okay with taking a detour, but escaping the city lights will be worth it.

You’ve never seen a glittering blanket of stars like this one.

The lake itself is a reservoir that stretches for more than 1,200 acres.

That translates to miles and miles of shoreline that can be used for boating, fishing, picnicking and more.

A concession stand offers snacks, and a bait and tackle shop has rentals and licenses for various activities.

There’s nothing like deep lungfuls of fresh, clean air to make you feel connected to nature.

At Lake Hodges, you’ll be absolutely dizzy with it.

It’s the best lake in the San Diego region for getting away from it all!

Address: 20102 Lake Dr, Escondido, CA 92029, United States

Going on a road trip around California? Check out our lists of things to do in Santa Barbara & things to do in Sacramento !

16. Grand Tea Room

Grand Tea Room ( Genevieve Prentice / flickr )

There’s nothing like a good cup of tea, and the Grand Tea Room is the place to get it.

Nestled in the historic district of downtown Escondido, it has a quaint, cozy atmosphere where the tables are covered in lacy doilies and the decorations range from ornate portraits to padded couches straight out of a vintage novel.

The menu is just as charming as the furnishings.

If you’re short on time, have just a cup or two of chai, red bush, darjeeling or classic black tea.

If you want one of those high afternoon tea experiences that you’ve always seen on Downton Abbey, reserve a two-hour slot that includes a full platter.

You’ll be served scones, fruit bowls, petite desserts and dozens of varieties of loose-leaf tea.

The Grand Tea Room isn’t one of the flashier tourist spots.

In fact, its tucked-away location is easy to miss.

Fortunately, it’s worth the effort of finding it, especially for tea addicts who are always on the prowl for their next fix.

Go and see what flavors that California teas can offer you!

Address: 145 W Grand Ave, Escondido, CA 92025, United States

17. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

With a name like “Sunset Cliffs,” you might expect this place to be amazing.

The good news is that you’d be right.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is one of the most gorgeous locations in San Diego, so it’ll make an unforgettable memory for you during your vacation.

The first step is actually getting there.

For the best views, you’ll need to hike to one of the clifftops to watch the sun sink behind the horizon.

You can also explore caves, caverns and coastlines with amazing rock formations and colorful displays of nature and sea life.

One of the best tourist spots is an underground cave with an open ceiling where you can watch the clouds and stars drift by.

Another popular location is a bluff where you can go cliff diving into the water.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in San Diego at night, swing by Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

It more than lives up to its name with its breathtaking summits.

Address:  Ladera St, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

18. Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Are you wondering what to do in San Diego on a rainy day?

It’s a rare phenomenon for such a sunny place, but it does happen, and it doesn’t have to be a vacation ruiner.

Just visit somewhere like the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (MCASD) .

MCASD houses many different types of art, including paintings, sculptures, scrolls and 3D art installations that jut out from the walls and dangle from invisible strings.

The only requirement is that they don’t date back further than 1950.

They have to be modern.

Visitors to the museum can take self-guided tours or attend special events like lectures and auctions.

Their calendar is always packed, so it’s just a matter of choosing something that interests you while you’re in San Diego.

Don’t let a rainy day put a damper on your vacation.

With places like the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, you can still enjoy a fun afternoon in the city.

Address: 1100 Kettner Boulevard (between Broadway and B Street), San Diego, CA 92101, United States

19. San Elijo Lagoon

San Elijo Lagoon

Coastal wetlands are disappearing from California, but the San Elijo Lagoon is one of the few remaining holdouts.

It’s fiercely protected by local environmental groups because of both its beauty and its biodiversity.

Visitors to the San Elijo Lagoon are encouraged to start at the nature center.

It was built with recyclable, sustainable materials and runs on solar power, so it gets a gold seal when it comes to eco-friendliness.

It’s filled with samples from the lagoon and artifacts from the Native American tribes who used to live on it.

When you’re ready to go outside, there are ample trails for walking and hiking.

They range in difficulty depending on their length, terrain and elevation.

Some wind around the marshes and shrubs for miles; others are just short treks to see the birds.

The San Elijo Lagoon is proof that San Diego attractions don’t have to be razzle-dazzle to be awesome.

A quiet afternoon on the trails will be just as fun as some of the other things in the city!

Address:  2710 Manchester Ave, Cardiff, CA 92007, United States

20. Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is such a famous place in San Diego that its residents have their own name: “OBceans” or “OBecians.”

They’re proud to live there, and fortunately, they’re happy to welcome tourists as well.

The main draw of Ocean Beach is its potential for a shopping extravaganza.

Hundreds of vendors call it home, and most of them are small, independent retailers selling books, flowers, furniture, jewelry, baked goods, antique collectibles and all of the kitschy souvenirs that you could ever need.

Some big-name businesses have tried to set up shop in Ocean Beach, but they’ve always been stopped by the community.

People organize protests every time.

This is one of the only places to visit in San Diego that hasn’t been commercialized!

Are you visiting the coastal cities of California?

Do you want cool things to see in a neighborhood like none other?

Grab a reusable shopping bag and make a trip to Ocean Beach.

Address: Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

Visting other areas of California? Check out our lists of things to do in San Francisco  & things do in Los Angeles !

21. Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

If you’re pouring over a map of San Diego and wondering where to go, consider Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave .

Formerly a smuggler’s tunnel, it’s become one of the best known attractions in the city for folks who like cool historical locations.

Your journey starts in a small, wood-shingled beach shop.

There are hundreds like it in California, but this one has a secret exit that will lead you down sandstone cliffs and into a sea cave.

The trip will be dark, wet, humid and slippery.

There are stairs and rails, but they’re built directly into the caverns, and the tides wash over them quite often.

The danger is part of the appeal, however.

It truly looks and feels like the bootlegger’s passage that it used to be.

If you want to make some fun, lasting memories while you’re in San Diego, grab your flashlight and venture into Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave.

Address: 1325 Cave St, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037, United States

22. Bahia Belle

Bahia Belle Cruise

Travel to Mississippi without even leaving California when you take a cruise on the Bahia Belle .

It’s a gigantic, turn-of-the-century sternwheeler boat, and it meanders through San Diego’s bays and harbors like something out of Gone With the Wind.

Hours of operation are 6 PM – 1:30 AM, so it’s a nighttime adventure.

Families can enjoy a wholesome “sunset cruise” with snacks and beautiful views of the water.

Singles can mingle with “after dark” parties that include cocktails, live music and other forms of entertainment.

Bahia Belle is operated by the Bahia Resort Hotel, and it’s free to all guests.

You can also purchase one-time tickets if you aren’t staying at the hotel.

A trip on the Bahia Belle is one of the top things to do in San Diego.

It’s such a fun and unique setting that everything will feel like new, so even if you’ve taken cruises before, buy a ticket for the sternwheeler tonight!

Address:  998 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

23. Aquatica

Aquatica San Diego

Amusement parks are always a popular option for tourist attractions in San Diego, but there’s something special about Aquatica .

Maybe it’s the fact that it’s the perfect way to cool down during a hot day in San Diego.

With everything from thrill rides to lazy rivers and pools, you can swim, splash, slide and dive to your heart’s content.

Maybe it’s the fact that it offers lots of fun activities outside of the water, too.

You can catch a marine show, dine at a seafood restaurant or have a close encounter with a dolphin or penguin.

Either way, if you’re looking for family-friendly undertakings in San Diego, Aquatica is a must do.

You can buy day passes or season passes depending on the length of your vacation.

Stay for the afternoon; stay for the summer.

Aquatica will always welcome you!

Address:  2052 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA 91911, United States

24. Cardiff State Beach

Cardiff State Beach

California is known for its beaches, but with miles and miles of coastline to choose from, how are you supposed to pick the right vacation destinations?

One option is Cardiff State Beach in San Diego.

Protected by the government, it offers clean, sandy slopes and warm waves that are suitable for swimming and surfing.

You can even take the dog for a walk as long as he stays on a leash.

There are plenty of scheduled activities to choose from as well.

Do you like working up a sweat? Join a yoga class or volleyball game on the beach.

Do you live for camping? There are campgrounds nearby where you can set up your RV.

By offering endless amounts of fun, Cardiff State Beach has cemented itself as one of the best beaches in San Diego.

If you only have time to hit a couple while you’re in town, make sure that Cardiff is on your list.

Address: Highway 101, Cardiff by the Sea, CA 92007, United States

25. Legends Gallery

Legends Gallery ( cultivar413 / flickr )

Did you know that Dr. Seuss lived in San Diego?

While not a real doctor, his “prescription for fun” endeared him to the masses to such an extent that he has the place of honor in San Diego’s Legends Gallery .

Filled with all of the delightful whimsy that you’d expect, the Legends Gallery is a place where renowned authors and illustrators have their work showcased to the world.

There are early, unreleased sketches from famous books; there are 3D models of beloved characters brought to life.

Dr. Seuss isn’t the only legend on display, either.

You can learn about Tom Everhart, Mackenzie Thorpe and many others.

Some hail from San Diego; others are international creators.

It’s no exaggeration to say that the Legends Gallery is one of the best attractions in San Diego.

It fills a fun little niche that you didn’t even know existed, but once you visit, you’ll be glad that you did.

Address:  1205 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States

26. Compass Balloons

Compass Balloons

Located a few miles outside of San Diego, Compass Balloons is a hot air balloon company that offers scenic rides over southern California.

You’ll marvel at everything from city towers to remote valleys and vineyards in wine country.

Depending on your budget, you’ll also have options for public, private or group tours, so it’s the kind of experience that you can customize.

Are you hoping for a romantic date night?

Book a his-and-her ride during the sunset.

Are you traveling with co-workers and looking for team-building exercises?

Toast to a successful product launch while you’re hundreds of miles in the air.

Compass Balloons will let you experience all of the amazing sights of southern California from an unforgettable vantage point.

Anyone can take a walking or biking tour, but how many people can say that they’ve taken an aerial tour?

As long as you don’t mind a short drive outside of San Diego, Compass Balloons is one of the best places near the city to have an adventure.

Address:  1969 Villa Cardiff Dr, Cardiff, CA 92007, United States

27. San Diego Model Railroad Museum

San Diego Model Railroad Museum

You never really outgrow a childhood obsession with trains, and at the San Diego Model Railroad Museum , you can embrace that fact.

It’s a place that you won’t find in a lot of travel guides, but as the largest museum of its kind in the entire world, it’s a valuable sightseeing location in California.

Model trains cover every inch of the space.

Some are miniature replicas of historic, real-life locomotives; others are imaginative toys built for kids that have colorful pieces and moving parts.

If you like learning about trains, there’s a reference library in the back of the museum, and it includes books, videos, manuals, blueprints and antiquated footage that was saved from the ravages of time.

Visit the San Diego Model Railroad Museum if you’re looking for cool places to go that aren’t listed in every single brochure about San Diego.

Sometimes, the little-known spots can offer the best experiences.

Address:  1649 El Prado Modern and Contemporary Art and Dynamic, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

28. Children’s Pool Beach

Children’s Pool Beach

Are you looking for fun things to do in San Diego with kids?

You might like Children’s Pool Beach .

Originally commissioned as a place where children could swim without the danger of high waves, it quickly became a nesting spot for local seals.

They flocked to the area by the hundreds, and it actually became unsafe for kids to be in the water because of their bacteria.

If you visit Children’s Pool Beach this weekend, you’ll find that swimming is technically allowed but highly discouraged.

Kids still love it, however, because of the seals.

They dive, splash, call to each other, sunbathe on the rocks and generally have the time of their lives in their adopted habitat, so it’s a sightseeing opportunity like none other.

If you love animals, Children’s Pool Beach is one of the best places to visit in San Diego.

It offers a zoo-like experience of getting close to wildlife, but it’s all natural.

Your kids will be talking about this memory for years to come.

Address: 850 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037, United States

29. Petco Park

Home to the San Diego Padres, Petco Park is a baseball stadium where you can take the whole family out to a ball game.

It’s filled with state-of-the-art features that include everything from gigantic videoboards to smaller HDTVs scattered around the bars and concession stands so that you’ll never miss a moment of the action.

Baseball isn’t the only thing to enjoy at the stadium, either.

It’s also been a place for rugby, basketball, golf and tennis as well as concerts and motor sports.

It even held American Idol auditions back in the day!

Long story short, there’s lots of stuff to do at Petco Park.

It’s just a matter of looking at their schedule and seeing what options are available to you while you’re in San Diego.

Are you ready to chomp some peanuts, watch some hoops or bang your head to some metal music?

Petco Park has it all!

Address:  100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

30. San Diego Museum of Art

San Diego Museum of Art

You can’t miss the San Diego Museum of Art .

Its front doors are located in a gigantic, cathedral-style facade that took a full two years to build, and they can be seen from every direction if you’re in the neighborhood.

They’re that big.

Inside, the collections are just as impressive as the exterior.

The museum is home to hundreds of paintings, sculptures, documents, artifacts and general historical pieces, and they date all the way back to 5000 BC.

You can explore the entire rise and fall of an ancient civilization just by passing through a particular hallway.

Tours are available, but they’ll need to be scheduled in advance.

If you’re hoping to go this week, call as early as possible.

They can get booked up quickly.

The San Diego Museum of Art is one of the major points of interest in the city.

Don’t resist the temptation to peek inside.

Once you see those humongous doors, let them guide you to a wonderful tribute to art and culture.

Address:  1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102, United States

31. Little Italy

Little Italy

You can smell the pastas and sauces.

You can hear the drifting notes of violins in the air.

This is Little Italy , and it’s located right in the heart of San Diego.

You don’t have to travel to Europe for an authentic Italian experience.

Thousands of miles away, this bustling block offers everything from food to fashion for lovers of Italian culture, making it one of the coolest places to visit in California .

Dine at the restaurants. Sip cocktails in the open bars and umbrella-covered patios.

Watch street performers do their thing, and empty your wallet at upscale clothing boutiques and souvenir stalls.

San Diego is no stranger to exotic cultures.

For example, it also boasts a Chinatown and an Asian Pacific Historic District.

There’s just something special about Little Italy, so if you’re looking for unique things to do while you’re in the city, stop by for a deep-dish pizza with all of the fixings!

Check out this awesome walking tour of Little Italy here.

Address: 1668 Columbia St From Laurel south to West A Street, San Diego, CA 92101-2502, United States

32. Villa Montezuma

Villa Montezuma

Also known as the “Spook House,” the Villa Montezuma of San Diego is a haunted mansion that has been baffling and frightening residents since its foundation in 1887.

It was built by a famous pianist who died quite suddenly after playing a single, final note of a piano performance.

His friends at the dinner party had no idea what was wrong since his fingers were still poised over the keys.

After his cremation, the mansion was passed from owner to owner, and they all reported strange incidents and occurrences.

There was a corner where nothing would grow.

There was a hidden passageway that defied all architectural logic.

Today, the Villa Montezuma is one of the biggest places of interest for supernatural spooks.

People come from all around the U.S. just to see San Diego’s haunted mansion.

If you dare, it can be a fun stop on your travel itinerary as well.

Address:  1925 K St, San Diego, CA 92102, United States

33. Mission Trails Regional Park

Mission Trails Regional Park

A hike in Mission Trails Regional Park is one of the best things to do in California .

The whole preserve spans more than 7,000 acres, and depending on where you enter, you can see everything from bare, rocky cliffs to green fields bursting with life.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the wide range of activities offered at the park.

You can walk on the trails or bike along the river; you can camp in the mountains or go picnicking in the plains.

There are even areas for horseback riding if you want to try some fun vacation activities that you can’t get at home.

The Mission Trails Regional Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in San Diego, and since it’s open 365 days per day, you don’t even have to plan your trip around it.

It’ll always be there.

Just grab your hiking boots and go!

Address: 1 Father Junipero Serra Trl, San Diego, CA 92119, United States

34. UTC Ice Sports Center

San Diego might be known for its sunshine, but there are plenty of places to go if you’re in the mood for something chillier.

One of these sites is the UTC Ice Sports Center .

Located in a shopping center, the UTC Ice Sports Center offers an indoor ice-skating rink for visitors of all ages.

Free skating is their popular pastime, but they also have shows, classes, hockey games, ice polo lessons and more.

Your skill level doesn’t matter.

You can be a complete beginner and still have fun.

They actually offer free classes if it’s your first time on the ice!

The UTC Ice Sports Center is a little piece of winter even during the blazing days of a California summer.

It’s one of the best things to do in San Diego when you’re tired of the heat, and thanks to its full rotation of shows, classes and lessons, you’ll never want for things to do.

Another bonus is that it’s located within a shopping center, so when you tire of skating, just put your regular shoes back on and hit the theater or the food court!

Address:  4545 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, United States

35. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

With breathtaking views of sandstone canyons and tree-lined beaches, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US .

Despite its popularity as a tourist attraction, it offers a glimpse into the rugged, untamed beauty of California’s wilderness.

Part of its wild nature comes from the fact that it’s protected land.

Home to the endangered Torrey pine tree, it’s monitored closely by ecologists to ensure that this precious species is preserved for future generations.

You can still find plenty of action at the reserve, however.

There are dozens of trails, cliffs, gardens and beaches for the outdoor explorer.

There’s even a nude beach for adults!

Take a trip to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve if you’re wondering where to visit in San Diego.

It has a different kind of magic than the urban sprawl of the city, but it’s still a wonder to behold.

Address:  12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, United States

36. Coronado Bridge

Coronado Bridge

Built in 1967, the Coronado Bridge is an architectural marvel.

It’s instantly recognizable as part of the San Diego skyline, and it winds and twists around the bay for a distance of more than 11,000 feet.

It even lights up at night!

You might not think of a bridge as a must see travel location, but you will after you’ve driven over the Coronado.

It offers panoramic views of blue water in every direction, and if you roll your windows down, you can enjoy a fresh ocean breeze that fills your lungs and whips the hair around your face.

It’s basically a scenic drive on a busy highway, so you can experience the best of both worlds.

The one drawback of the Coronado Bridge is that there’s no path for pedestrians, so you’ll need a car.

Another option is to find a tour or travel guide that will take you in a bus or van.

If you can find a way to cross the bridge, however, it’s worth the effort.

In fact, it’s pretty much a crime to visit San Diego without seeing the Coronado Bridge.

Put it on your to do list and get the full San Diego experience!

Address: State Route 75 South Embarcadero, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

37. Barona Resort and Casino

Barona Resort and Casino

Are you feeling lucky?

Hit the slots at the Barona Resort and Casino .

It’s a little outside of San Diego, so you’ll need to be comfortable with leaving the city limits and hitting up another region of California, but it’ll be worth the gas money if you make it all back!

Table games include everything from poker to roulette.

The restaurants offer fine dining as well as classic, comfortable fare like burgers, wings, noodles, pizzas and steaks.

The resort will be ready for you when you get tired.

The casino will be waiting when you wake up again.

The Barona Resort and Casino is one of the best attractions near San Diego.

If you’re ready to court Lady Luck, call and book a room tonight!

Address:  1932 Wildcat Canyon Rd, Lakeside, CA 92040, United States

38. Red Fox Steakhouse and Piano Bar

Red Fox Steakhouse and Piano Bar

Located in a single dimly-lit room with red walls and wooden furnishings, the Red Fox Steakhouse and Piano Bar is like a blast from the past.

It has the kind of rustic charm that defined old-school California architecture, so when you step through the doors, you half-expect to see miners or gold rushers kicking up their boots after a long day of work.

The menu, however, is thoroughly modern.

There are steaks and kebabs; there are crab legs, lobster tails and shrimp cocktails.

When you’re done with the main course, order some cheesecake or chocolate mousse pie for dessert!

Another fun thing about the restaurant is that it has a piano bar.

Several nights per week, you can enjoy live music from local musicians.

Some will even sell their music after the show if you want to take home a souvenir from San Diego.

The Red Fox Steakhouse and Piano Bar is a must see while you’re in San Diego.

Not only does it have a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, but its steak is some of the best in the city.

You’ll definitely leave this place with a loosened belt!

Address:  2223 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104, United States

39. San Diego Bay

San Diego Bay

Bursting with shops, resorts, restaurants, malls and other hubs of events and activities, San Diego Bay is one of the most vibrant waterfront communities in California.

There are so many things to see and do that your neck will have a permanent crick as you try to look at everything all at once.

Are you hungry?

Grab a bite to eat at one of the many burger joints and shrimp shacks.

Are you restless?

Hit the water with a boat, kayak, yacht or cruise ship.

Are you looking for a cultural experience?

Check out one of the floating museums or art galleries.

Depending on when you visit the city, you might also catch some spectacular annual events.

There are fireworks on the Fourth of July and a parade of holiday lights during Christmas.

Check the bay’s website to see if there’s anything happening this weekend!

If you’re wondering what to visit in San Diego, make time for the San Diego Bay.

It’s a must see for tourists, but even the locals have fun here.

40. California Tower

California Tower

With the mountains to the east and the ocean to the west, the views from California Tower have to be seen to be believed.

Not only will you enjoy a stunning panorama of sky, air, land and water that stretches in every direction, but you’ll get to do it from eight stories high.

Tours are available every day.

You reserve a ticket for a specific time, and a guide will take you up the tower while sharing facts and stories about everything that you pass on the ascent.

It takes about 40 minutes in total, and when you’re done, you’ll be at the eighth-floor observation deck.

You might also like the view from the ground.

The California Tower has an ornate and intricrate design that combines features of Baroque, Plateresque and Gothic architecture.

It’s the kind of landmark that you can admire from great distances as it looms over San Diego.

Do you like historic monuments?

Do you enjoy aerial views in 360° visibility?

Make the climb up the California Tower.

You won’t regret it.

Address:  California Tower, 1350 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Doing a road trip around California? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Long Beach  & what to do in Pasadena !

41. Liberty Public Market

Liberty Public Market

When asking people for recommendations on what to do during a trip to San Diego, they’ll probably mention Liberty Public Market .

It runs all day and every day, and it offers a staggering amount of goods from dozens and dozens of vendors.

Whether you’re looking for rare books, artisan cheeses, homemade jewelry or cheesy t-shirts saying “I Heart California,” you can find them here.

The market is housed in an old Navy building, so there’s an industrial feeling to the space even as you move among bouquets of fresh flowers and bread that’s still warm from the oven.

You can drink and dine; you can shop ’til you drop.

Every corner holds a new opportunity, especially if you’re open to trying new foods or swapping stories with stall owners.

Expect a crowd.

Liberty Public Market is one of the major points of interest of San Diego, so there are always folks milling near and within it.

If you don’t mind a little hustle and bustle, however, Liberty Public Market is definitely one of the best stops in San Diego.

It’s the kind of iconic destination that you have to visit at least once!

Address:  2820 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92106, United States

42. Del Mar Thoroughbred Club

Del Mar Thoroughbred Club

Located a few miles outside of San Diego, the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club offers the latest and greatest in horse racing.

Spectators fill the seats in their finest fashion; gamblers are allowed to bet on more than a dozen races per day.

Its southern-style charm has been transported from Kentucky to California.

There are even kid-friendly days if you’re looking for San Diego attractions that the whole family can enjoy.

Though it’s primarily a place for adults, the racetrack has also been used for concerts, carnivals, food truck festivals and more.

California’s gambling laws can be complicated, but at the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club, everything is legal and regal.

It’s a high-class attraction for folks who are ready to hit a jackpot.

Address:  2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014, United States

43. Nico’s Mexican Food

Nico’s Mexican Food

If you’ve never had fries stuffed inside of a burrito, you’re missing out on a southern California classic.

It might sound like a strange combination of ingredients, but it’s served in just about every food truck and food court in the area, including San Diego.

Nico’s Mexican Food is one of the best places to try this savory wonder.

Their tortillas come stuffed with meats, cheeses, fries and your choice of beans and salsas.

They’re tidily wrapped to start with, but once you bite into them, you’ll turn into a wild animal savaging at its kill.

They’re that good.

Other menu options include tacos, enchiladas, tostadas and sides like beans and fried rice.

Everything lives up to the “Mexican” part of the restaurant name.

Truly, though, the crowning jewel is the fry-filled burrito.

It’s known as the “California burrito.”

Once you’re converted to its goodness, you’ll never go back.

Address:  4918 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107, United States

44. Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala

There are dozens of basilicas in the state of California, but the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala is the most iconic.

Founded in 1769, it has the white stucco walls and metal bells that mark classic Spanish architecture, and it also boasts many “firsts” for the region.

It was the first basilica built in San Diego.

It was the first to martyr and entomb a Christian priest.

It was one of the first to be registered as a National Historic Landmark.

Today, the basilica still functions as a church.

You can attend mass or say your prayers under the tiled archways as the bells ring.

Tours are also available; you can stroll the grounds, listen to the stories and get a closer look at the religious history of California.

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala.

It’s one of the biggest points of interest in San Diego for both the devout and the secular.

Address:  10818 San Diego Mission Rd, San Diego, CA 92108, United States

45. Mount Woodson Trail

Mount Woodson Trail

The Mount Woodson Trail isn’t for beginners.

Let’s make that clear right away.

It’s a six-mile hike through dense and difficult landscapes, so if you’re headed to California to relax, a sweaty climb through the mountains probably won’t be your idea of a good time.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, however, and you live for the burn of your muscles as you ascend to new heights, the Mount Woodson Trail might be right up your alley.

Not only will you challenge yourself with your rise to the top, but you’ll also see amazing rock formations along the way.

The most popular is a jutting platform over thin air that you can actually stand on, but there are others as well, and they all make amazing photo ops.

Not everyone finds it fun to test themselves with new challenges.

If you aren’t afraid of a little sweat, however, the Mount Woodson Trail might be the best spot for you to get your heart pumping.

Have more time to explore California? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Solvang  & the top things to do in Fresno ?

46. Fleet Science Center

Fleet Science Center

The Fleet Science Center isn’t your usual science center.

Founded in 1973, it was the first museum to build a planetarium and IMAX dome on site, offering its guests a wide range of entertainment options even as it educated them on scientific subjects.

Other museums quickly went “hey, that’s a good idea” and copied the design, and now, you can’t throw a rock without hitting a museum dome.

The good news is that the Fleet Science Center is still just as fun as it was in the ’70s.

Offering all kinds of interactive exhibits and learning stations, it’s a place where visitors can get hands-on with science.

Kids and adults will both love it!

If you’ll be near the Fleet Science Center while you’re in San Diego, it’s worth a pit stop.

Its displays, games, events and classes are sure to keep you busy, especially if you’re already a fan of STEM learning.

Address:  1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

47. SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego is one of the top places to see in the city.

Part aquarium and part amusement park, it combines games and activities with fun learning experiences for the whole family.

Visitors of all ages will have a blast at SeaWorld!

You’re probably familiar with its popular events like orca and dolphin shows.

But did you know that it also has movies, rides, slides, gondolas and play centers?

There are even roller coasters that will send you careening all through the park!

Kids will love the interactive exhibits and animal habitats.

Adults will enjoy the more sophisticated offerings like the aquatic-based Cirque du Soleil performances.

It’s held at night, so it’ll be perfect for romantic dates with a special someone.

SeaWorld San Diego is a top 10 stop in the city.

It might be a bit cliche in terms of tourist attractions, but there’s a reason why thousands of visitors flock here every year.

It’s fun!

Address:  500 Sea World Dr, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

48. Waterhorse Charters

Waterhorse Charters

There are few things as fun as diving to the sunken ruins of a wrecked ship.

However, it can be a difficult hobby for beginners to get into, so it’s a bucket list item that usually goes unfulfilled.

Waterhorse Charters can change that.

Offering supervised dives for visitors of all skill levels, they’ll take you on ghostly underwater journeys to ships, canyons, coral reefs and kelp forests.

They’ll provide transportation to and from, and they’ll offer refreshments while you wait.

You’ll basically enjoy a mini-vacation on board while they take you to cool dive spots.

Again, it doesn’t matter if you’re a complete novice.

They’ll guide you.

They make diving a fun and accessible activity for anyone with the guts to try it.

Are you ready to swim with the fishes through the remains of the HMCS Yukon or P38 Aircraft?

It’ll be lots of fun, especially if you’re clamoring for unusual things to do while you’re in San Diego.

Contact Waterhorse Charters today and ask about their dives!

Address:  1617 Quivira Rd suite b, San Diego, CA 92109, United States

49. Oxford Social Club

Oxford Social Club

California might be known for its sun and sand, but there are plenty of establishments where you can enjoy a classier atmosphere, and the Oxford Social Club is one of them.

Like its name suggests, the Oxford Social Club isn’t the “sloppy drinks and neon lights” kind of club.

It’s an upscale place where you can socialize with others while enjoying a drink or a dance.

If you want to cut a rug, there’s an entire floor for tangos and lambadas; if you’d prefer to unwind in the lounge area, that’s an option as well.

Bottle service is available for well-to-do patrons.

Plush couches and hanging chandeliers will complement trays and trays of cocktails.

If you’re wondering what to do while vacationing in San Diego when you have a more refined palate than most, consider a trip to the Oxford Social Club.

You’ll feel like royalty as you enjoy a sophisticated club experience in one of California’s trendiest cities.

Address:  435 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

50. The Cat Cafe

The Cat Cafe

You might be familiar with the cat cafes of Asia, but they’re much rarer in the United States.

San Diego is one of the few cities to have one.

If you’ve never been to a cat cafe, they’re exactly what they sound like: places where you can chill out, enjoy a cup of coffee and cuddle with a friendly feline.

In San Diego, the Cat Cafe even works with a local animal rescue in hopes that its “employees” will be adopted.

Drink some tea. Eat a scone.

Swish a feather on the table until a calico pounces on it like a ferocious lion.

This is an average day at the cat cafe, so if you love kitties, make sure to stop by one of the most fun and creative establishments in California!

Address:  472 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Looking for more adventures around California? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Temecula ?

51. Spreckels Organ Pavilion

Spreckels Organ Pavilion

If you’ve never heard a gigantic pipe organ played in an open-air pavilion, have you really lived?

Fortunately for your bucket list, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion offers weekly performances of its outdoor organ.

You can bring a picnic blanket or enjoy the shade of its umbrella-covered tables as you listen to a variety of tunes played on 5,000 different pipes.

You see, the organ isn’t limited to just “organ” sounds.

It can mimic everything from pianos to classical horns, so you’ll get to hear a lively performance from what sounds like a full-time band but is actually a single, city-employed organist.

San Diego is one of the only cities in the world to have a designated organist.

You’ll regret it if you pass up the opportunity to hear them play, so visit the Spreckels Organ Pavilion this weekend for a rare treat!

Address:  2125 Pan American Rd E, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

52. Bernardo Winery

Bernardo Winery

The Bernardo Winery is one of the oldest in southern California.

It’s family-owned and operated, and it specializes in old-world hospitality as well as dazzling vintages that you can’t get anywhere else in San Diego.

Tastings are available by the glass and by the bottle.

Tours can teach you all about the process of winemaking, and you’ll get to explore both the winery and the outside grounds.

They’re dotted with gardens, vineyards and village shops, so there are lots of cool things to admire.

If you come out of the experience with a new favorite brand, they sell plenty of products on location, and they also have an online store that you can peruse when you get home.

Put the Bernardo Winery on your list of San Diego attractions that you won’t want to miss.

Even if you aren’t a big wine drinker, it’ll offer a relaxing afternoon among the grapes.

Address:  13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA 92128, United States

53. San Diego Zoo Safari Park

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

You’ve been to the zoo. You’ve been to the aquarium.

What if you still haven’t had your fix of nature’s coolest creatures?

Take a trip to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park .

Covering almost 2,000 acres, it’s one of the largest wildlife preserves in all of California, and it’s teeming with lions, rhinos, antelopes, giraffes and everything else that you’d expect to see on a real safari.

The Lion Camp is probably the biggest draw of the park, but there’s also a Tiger Trail and a Gorilla Forest.

Additional enclosures house everything from birds to lizards.

If you love animals, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the best place to visit for wildlife observation in San Diego.

It might even be better than the zoo and the aquarium since it’s so much larger!

You’ll have tons of fun here, and if you pay attention to the informational exhibits, you might just learn something as well.

Address:  15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, United States

54. Old Town

Take a step back in time with Old Town .

Like its name implies, it’s a historic part of San Diego where everything from the architecture to the commerce has a vintage-style charm.

It’s the oldest settlement in the city, too, and it might just be one of the oldest in the entire state of California.

The houses and hotels have adobe walls.

The old-fashioned courthouse sits next to telegraph offices and newspaper shops.

There are historical demonstrations every day from blacksmiths, farmers, jewelers and general re-enactors.

Travel in May and you’ll get to participate in the annual Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Travel in December and you can have wonderful experiences during Fiesta Navidad.

If you’re a history buff, Old Town is one of the top travel destinations in San Diego.

It’s a must do in terms of art, history and cultural significance, so you should definitely put it on your wish list.

No matter when you want to go, you’ll find something nifty to enjoy.

Address: 34002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110, United States

55. Del Mar City Beach

Del Mar City Beach

Beaches are a dime a dozen in San Diego, so they need something special to stand out.

At Del Mar City Beach, it’s the grunions.

If you’ve never heard of a grunion, it’s basically a small, silvery fish that looks like a sardine.

Every year, they congregate in the thousands to swim and spawn on California shores, and people come to watch during much-celebrated “Grunion Runs.”

Del Mar City Beach isn’t the only place to enjoy a Grunion Run, but it’s one of the best.

It gets so many fish that the water seems to turn silver, and when you’ve filled up your camera roll with all of the pictures that you can possibly take, there are other local amenities to keep you occupied.

If you’re looking for fun and unique experiences in San Diego, try a Grunion Run at Del Mar City Beach.

It’s the kind of thing that you can brag about for years to come whenever people ask about the coolest stuff that you’ve seen or done.

Address: 1700 Coast Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014, United States

56. Spruce Street Suspension Bridge

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge

Stretching for almost 400 feet across open air, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is the best way to give yourself a gut check in San Diego.

Do you have what it takes to walk the entire length?

Can you handle the swaying motions and the howl of the wind as you travel so far above the ground?

It isn’t a famous attraction.

In fact, it’s considered something of a hidden gem of San Diego since it’s hidden among cliffs and canyons.

There are local residents who don’t know about it!

If you’re looking for fun times in California, however, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge will give you a vacation story that’s worth sharing.

If you dare, you can even stop halfway across and take a selfie or two.

Address:  W Spruce St, San Diego, CA 92103, United States

57. Hotel del Coronado

Hotel del Coronado

You might not think of a hotel when making a list of San Diego’s finest attractions, but the Hotel del Coronado is an exception.

Not only does it offer lush, comfortable rooms, but its activity roster is brimming with possibilities.

Get pampered at the spa. Ride a gnarly wave during a surf lesson. Roast smores at a private beach bonfire.

You can enjoy all of these activities and more at the Hotel del Coronado.

Additionally, there are seasonal events that you won’t want to miss if you’re traveling to San Diego at particular times; from fireworks to holiday shows, there’s always something fun going on.

Ask them about their wintertime “Skating by the Sea” event where they set up an ice skating rink right there on the beach!

The best things to do on vacation aren’t always amusement parks and other screaming delights.

Sometimes, they’re relaxing mornings spent on a fold-out lounge chair as you sip cocktails and enjoy the sunshine.

Book a suite at the Hotel del Coronado for luxury California living.

Address:  1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, United States

Keen to explore other areas of California? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Big Bear  & some of the best things to do in Pismo Beach ?

Start Planning Your Trip To San Diego

Whether you’re interested in sun, surf or turf, these are just a few of the best things to do in San Diego, California.

They’ll definitely cross some activities off your bucket list, so get to packing!

Southern California is waiting for you!

Happy travels.

One more area where costs are exploding:…

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Opinion Letters to the Editor

One more area where costs are exploding: veterinary services.

Have you visited a veterinarian lately with your dog or cat? The base price of a vet visit is likely about $100 in San Diego County. Add anything to the visit, and the price skyrockets. A general examination visit for our cat was about $200, but the blood and urine work more than doubled the cost to over $500. Many people in our county are wealthy enough to pay such amounts. However, there is a segment of people with pets who eventually realize they will need veterinary services. After they pay such bills, credit card debt can significantly pinch household budgets. Less money that month for family needs! So although we love pets dearly, their medical care can result in serious family debt. Shelter workers, thank you, but some pets have become a luxury because they can burden a family during the pet’s lifespan.

— Gerald Lance Johannsen, Carlsbad

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As part of San Diego Comic Convention, the world renowned comics and popular arts convention, Comic-Con Museum is a participatory space focused on bringing together diverse audiences for shared vibrant experiences featuring comics, film, science/fiction, fantasy, TV shows, books, anime, or other related popular arts.

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