San Diego, California is a veritable playground for visitors of all ages and interests. With its combination of gorgeous natural topography, vibrant city facilities and historical importance on the Pacific coast line, this sunny state capitol has something to offer that will attract any traveler.
Begin at the iconic Balboa Park, home of the world-famous San Diego Zoo. As a world leader in the care of endangered animals, it is home to hundreds of species and thousands that face extinction. In addition, the park contains several museums and galleries showcasing Spanish-style homes and crafts rendered in what seems like uncannily familiar concrete.
San Diego offers endless options for enjoying the great outdoors, so those of you who LOVE to be outside could do THIS…. Tackle the trails within Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for scenic Pacific Ocean views or paddle through calm waters at La Jolla Cove, with its sunning sea lions. Coronado BeachKnown for its bright and airy golden sand and epic sunsets, Coronado Beach is one bayside paradise that any beach-goer will appreciate.
The USS Midway Museum is a popular stop for history buffs looking to board the aircraft carrier turned museum and its interactive exhibits that tell the story of naval history. The Gaslamp Quarter, home to San Diego’s old-town which includes Victorian-era buildings that now house shops, cafes and entertainment options.
An exploration in variety, the attractions of San Diego range from vibrant neighbourhoods to relaxing beside the sea and culinary offerings for any taste. Whether you are vacationing with family, planning a fun getaway or simply trying to go on an adventure yourself, San Diego always has something exciting for everyone at every corner.
Top Things to Do in San Diego
1. Watch a Padres Game at Petco Park
With the San Diego Padres calling downtown home, there is never an off-season in the Gaslamp Quarter with views of PETCO PARK. Definitely check out for a fun afternoon! Go to a baseball match and enjoy this well-loved experience while sipping on an overpriced beer.
2. Discover the Historic Hotel del Coronado
Popping over the bridge to visit the world famous Hotel del Coronado is a must! This hotel has been featured in several movies, the most famous of which is Some Like It Hot starring Marilyn Monroe.
If you ever have a special night, this hotel is more expensive however it may be worth considering. It is a special kind of different. Room prices, you can find here.
In either case, here are tours to make the most of it:
Coronado Sightseeing Tour– Indulge in luxury with a tour of Hotel del Coronado, the renowned beach institution, also as waterfront properties just like the attractive Glorietta Bay Inn.
Coronado Island Segway Tour: Ride the Coronado Loop and journey over to downtown San Diego and the Embarcadero on a thrilling Segway tour.
3. Mount Soledad Cross Panoramic City Views
Take a drive up the winding roads to Mount Soledad Cross, one of San Diego’s most iconic monuments and perfect viewing point for 360-degree views of America’s Finest City. The most disconcerting exhibit may be A Forgotten Victory, featuring a photo of my grandfather in what also serves as a Korean War memorial.
4. Explore Cabrillo National Monument
Visit Cabrillo National Monument for stunning views of the San Diego harbor and skyline. Do not forget to introduce you with the real history of San Diego in Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
During the months of January to March, this spot turns into a great place for seeing the migration as gray and blue whale make their way from Baja California to Alaska. There is a $10 vehicle entry fee. Check the Cabrillo National Monument website for the most current info before you go.
5. Explore Seaport Village
Seaport Village, located along the bayside of downtown San Diego, is a charming destination sure to delight visitors of all ages. In fact, it is a lively place in general with many shopping and dining places as well as outdoor entertainment. Decorated with elegant decorations, the village truly comes to life during Christmas surrounded by a million reflections.
6. A Day at Mission Bay Park
Appreciate the balmy San Diego weather in beautiful Mission Bay Park. Here you can have a picnic, light up a bonfire bay side, bike ride or jog on the trails that line the park, paddle out on your kayak or paddleboard (rentals are available), rent sail boats for an afternoon of fun all around! Outdoor Dining Chicago Diner -© Open Air QuestIt Is A City Where You Can Outdoors Almost Everywhere!
7. Explore Old Town San Diego
Old Town – The place where it all began, Old town is the perfect starting point to delve into California’s historical and cultural roots. There are also plenty of activities to do in this area: shop at traditional crafts stores selling candles and soaps, try your hand at gold panning or take the Old Town Tequila and Tortillas tour.
This tour features a walking immersion in the area, knowledge of the locals while delighting yourself with delicious tastings such as handmade tortillas, tequila or any other drink you prefer and chips, salsa & street taco- a typical San Diego treat.
8. Southern California Tecemecula Wineries
Visit Temecula Valley is the region’s official tourism marketing organization and resource for visitors across southern California, aiming to identify Wine Country as Southern California’s wine country vs. Northern California neighbors Sonoma & Napa Valleys.
Enjoy award-winning wines and dine in delicious restaurants or relax in decorative bed & breakfasts Temecula Sunrise hot air balloon rides are available, which you absolutely will not want to miss a direct flight over the valley in such an amazing view. For wine lovers, here are the tours to combine with your stay in Burgundy:
Guided Sightseeing & Wine Tasting Tour: A 1/2 day outing with lunch, accompanying commentary and hotel transportation.
Grapehopper Tour: Flex Pass with round-trip shuttle to multiple wineries.
Horse-Drawn Trolley Venue Tour: Cruise through the vineyards in style on a chauffeured trolley tour.
9. Hang Out with Seals in La Jolla
The coastline of La Jolla boasts much of the most beautiful nature, with gorgeous sea cliffs, coves and crannies isolated rocky reefs as well as extensive sandy beaches. While there, you have to visit La Jolla Cove- the only place I imagine could be better than viewing seals and sea lions lounging on a large rock.
Sea kayaking is also an excellent way to explore the coastline of La Jolla. Kayakers can paddle around the area and with companies like La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks, you might see sea lions up close and personal, along with several leopard sharks as well as the iconic sea caves.
10. San Diego Zoo & Safari Park: Balboa Parks Premier Animal Refuge
San Diego Zoo is a World Renowned Safari Park Featuring more than 3,700 animals from hundreds of species. The zoo offers animal shows and 4-D theaters, as well as interactive play areas for children. It is best known for its breeding programs, such as the first to breed Giant Pandas. And you can watch the pandas through a panda cam with daily updates that will increase later from home.
The online booking in advance for the tickets keeps you away from the same waiting lines so if you are planning to go there let not it be a destroy and get your tickets earlier. If you do not have your own vehicle then I also recommend booking a tour that includes transportation to and from the hotel/resort along with entrance fees to the park…
A quick drive north of town (30 miles to Escondido) leads to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a offshoot of the zoo devoted to saving species and breeding. This non-profit situation includes huge open-fence natural surroundings that are lived in by creatures from landmasses, for example, Africa. This destination offers the excitement of a safari, bring you up close to rhinos giraffes elephants and buffalo among others.
It is also advisable to book in advance for the Safari Park. If you are going to hit both the San Diego Zoo and the Wild Animal Park, save 20% by buying a 2-site pass. If you don’t want to go for a long drive to the Safari Park, hotel transfers can be purchased, but it is additional to the price of the safari.
11. Paddle Boarding in San Diego
Paddle boarding, especially in the picturesque Bay Harbor area is a San Diego favorite pastime Paddlers can enjoy the fantastic view of the downtown skyline, as well as look out toward the Coronado Bridge. Affordable paddle board rentals and lessons are available through local providers if you do not have your own paddle board.
12. Enjoy the Little Italy Mercato Farmer’s Market
Allowing you to taste the buzz at Little Italy Mercato Farmer’s Market is every Saturday no matter its rain or shine. The market has more than 200 stalls and is full of live music and a true sensory overload.
Treat yourself to a selection of tasty treats including fresh cheeses, charcuterie, and even drinks. There is also a nice selection of jewelry, boutique clothing and plants in the market as well. The Little Italy Walking Tour with Wine Tasting might be of special interest to wine aficionados as it includes 12 tastings, plus cheese and paninis along the way.
13. It’s dark outside, Find The Gaslamp Quarter at Night
In addition to the Convention Center, visitors can enjoy restaurants, bars and entertainment in the historic Gaslamp Quarter located in downtown near PETCO Park and Seaport Village. Walk around and experience its history For an experience as unique & recommended, check out popular Gaslamp and Waterfront Segway Tour for a fun way to see the city.
14. LEGOLAND California Theme Park Discovery:
Built from the LEGO bricks, is LEGOLAND California life on a much smaller scale. A family friendly destination featuring rides, shows and a water park. To ensure you visit the best, book your tickets online and choose a package where most even pick you up from your hotel for free.
15. Driving to Sunset Cliffs at Night
The Surfside City of San Diego: Sunset CliffsThis area in Point Loma remains one of the most picturesque communities for its high cliffs and rocky, surf-dashed shores. Perfect for running or walking the sea cliffs, it is idyllic.
Nothing rivals preparing at dawn to see the empty beach; but an altogether different event is sitting as night approaches, simply staring off into space while the sun goes through a rainbow of shades and after that sinks in can turn on itself – really unique.
16. Discover Balboa Park:
Must-visit Balboa Park, with its museums, parks, lovely Spanish architecture, and beautiful gardens. You will see the stunning Casa de Balboa and Casa del Prado, and the lively Spanish Village Art Center, Rose and Japanese Friendship Gardens. Given its size, you might want to think about joining a guided tour of the must-see sites in this region.
There are walking tours, Segway tours and private options which allow you to get all sorts of info that is tailored just for you. Be sure to visit the iconic and highly photographed Botanical Building and Lily Pond too.
17. Learn to Surf in La Jolla
San Diego attracts many tourists for surfing and so does La Jolla. Here, surf schools are designed for beginners right up through amateur levels — and, yes, even with programs and classes for kids. Do bring a wetsuit, though: Pacific waters are cold.
18. Enjoy Paragliding and Hang Gliding at Torrey Pines Gliderport
The stunning cliffs of Torrey Pines are the perfect place to take a thrilling ride in the air on for paragliding and hang gliding with over at Torrey Pines Gliderport. Great for tandem flights and beginner certifications, this community pulls the active set of pilots to soar above California’s rugged coast.
19. Carlsbad Flower Fields in the Spring
See the colorful blooms at Carlsbad Ranch’s Flower Fields in bloom this spring. But it’s hard to resist the glistening fields of color, so for a mere $14.00 entrance fee per person they are attracting eager viewers. A seasonal spectacle not to be missed.
20. Explore San Diego by Water
One of the Best Things to Do in San Diego is Taking on One of its Many Harbor Cruises The selection is inclusive of one-hour trips, dining cruises, brunch cruises and wine cruises; all with a different view and trip to offer.
A highlight is the whale-watching tour, complete with refreshments, refreshments and binoculars – sunscreen as well as cooler-weather gear are also offered. It is among the many experiences that make San Diego waterfront unforgettable.
