The solely problem you’ll run into when deciding on enjoyable issues to do in San Diego will probably be narrowing down your choices. I dwell in La Jolla and assist individuals plan holidays to San Diego. So, I can wholeheartedly affirm that locals benefit from the theme parks, breweries, seashores, water sports activities, hikes, museums, and extra on this checklist that guests come from far and large to discover.
You’re in luck since you’re about to search out out which actions are really thought of the most effective. These are actions that individuals really do and never random concepts in far corners of the county. They are cool, enjoyable and straightforward to entry. Some are even free.
This checklist is split by pursuits, however you’ll discover hyperlinks to much more detailed guides, lodge suggestions, and concepts for saving cash that can show you how to drill down on precisely what to do in San Diego.
See additionally: 15 San Diego Discounts: Experience the City for Less
You can save on tickets, excursions, and lodges by means of my affiliations. If you make purchases by means of the hyperlinks on this publish, I could also be compensated.
Top San Diego Beaches
Visiting the seashore is actually one of many prime 10 issues to do in San Diego. The water is ideal for wading, browsing, and swimming throughout many of the 12 months.
Wetsuits might be simply rented throughout the winter when Southern California’s ocean water temperature runs on the chillier aspect. San Diego seashores function prominently on most vacationers’ itineraries particularly as a result of they are often loved year-round and are one in all our finest free sights.
What you do on the seashore depends upon the climate and private desire, however these are the seashores I like to recommend that you simply add to your San Diego itinerary.
1. CORONADO CENTRAL BEACH
With often calmer shore breaks and a large, flat stretch of sand, this can be a nice Coronado seashore for households and is rated as among the finest within the nation. Plus, it’s an excuse to go over the well-known Coronado bridge or ferry.
2. LA JOLLA COVE
La Jolla Cove is likely one of the most photographed locations within the San Diego area for a superb purpose. Yes, there’s a small seashore right here that’s often waveless, so a straightforward entry to the underwater park (extra on this beneath).
However, individuals come right here to benefit from the ocean views and stroll alongside the boardwalk. There are barking sea lions, attractive sea birds, the sounds of waves, a giant grassy space known as Ellen Browning Scripps Park, belvederes (small inexperienced huts) to sit down in, and you’ve got varied issues to do in La Jolla close by.
3. LA JOLLA SHORES BEACH
The (often) softer method the waves break right here makes La Jolla Shores Beach an excellent place to study to surf, and there are lifeguards on obligation till nightfall.
The seashore is split into browsing and swimming and is a launch level for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving excursions. It’s very fashionable for sunbathing and common beachgoing.
4. PACIFIC BEACH
A enjoyable boardwalk runs alongside this stretch of sandy seashore that’s widespread with younger professionals and faculty college students. There are a lot of seashore bars close by although the Law Street part of Pacific Beach is extra family-friendly.
5. DEL MAR BEACH
There are loos, showers, and lifeguards at this very fashionable seashore for sunbathing and swimming. The north finish is Dog Beach (leash-free enjoyable for Fido) and likewise has seashore volleyball courts.
6. TORREY PINES STATE BEACH
Visit this gorgeous seashore after exploring the climbing trails at adjoining Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
7. MOONLIGHT BEACH
You’ll discover every little thing you want at this Encinitas seashore, from picnic tables, hearth rings, lifeguards, and restrooms to volleyball courts, a snack bar, and tools leases.
If you’re staying in a North County San Diego lodge, lots of the lodge concierges will advocate Moonlight Beach as a result of it has probably the most facilities of any seashore within the space.
8. OCEAN BEACH
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park above Ocean Beach is one in all our finest locations to observe the sundown over the Pacific Ocean (maybe after fish tacos at close by South Beach).
Best Beach Activities: From Seals to Seasonal Fun
We all know that you could sunbathe and swim on the seashores listed above, however right here’s what else you are able to do.
9. LEARN HOW TO SURF
One of the quintessential Southern California experiences vacationers mustn’t overlook is a browsing lesson. They’re given right here year-round (because of heat wetsuits) on virtually all the seashores talked about above.
Take one by yourself or as a bunch. You’ll doubtless use a foam board and really be capable of arise inside a lesson. Budding surfers might be as younger as 5 years previous. We have a listing of browsing faculties and places.
10. SEE THE LA JOLLA SEALS & SEA LIONS
While you’re within the La Jolla Cove space you won’t be able to overlook our chatty sea lions who hang around on the rocks right here.
If you stroll south alongside the seashore boardwalk a couple of minutes to the Children’s Pool Beach, that is the place our well-known La Jolla seals rookery awaits.
11. GO TIDE POOLING (WINTER)
A free and enjoyable San Diego expertise outside is tide pooling throughout winter months when low and minus tides happen within the late afternoons.
I’ve a listing of finest San Diego tide swimming pools, however the spots we like are La Jolla and Cabrillo National Monument.
12. SWIM WITH LEOPARD SHARKS (SUMMER)
We have the largest annual aggregation of leopard sharks on the earth within the shallow ocean water close to The Marine Room restaurant on La Jolla Shores Beach.
They come to incubate their infants within the heat water right here whereas feeding within the close by submarine canyon at evening. They’re innocent, and you’ll swim and snorkel across the sharks.
13. TRY A GRUNION RUN (SPRING AND SUMMER)
Are you an evening owl? Grab a headlamp or flashlight and head out to the sandier seashores to see a grunion run. The schedule is right here however make sure to be aware of when you possibly can go fishing for them and when it’s commentary solely.
14. STAY IN A BEACHFRONT HOTEL
If you like the seashore, it’s price wanting into the beachfront San Diego lodges. These are a number of the finest:
Learn extra and e-book: 17 Best San Diego Beach Hotels
San Diego Theme Parks and Amusement Parks
Our prime Southern California theme parks and amusement parks make San Diego, CA, a very fashionable household trip vacation spot.
15. SAN DIEGO ZOO
The world-famous San Diego Zoo is a deal with for all ages. And it’s not your typical zoo, which is why it has a popularity for being among the finest on the earth.
There are greater than 3,500 animals representing 650 totally different species and 700,000 plant species on the Zoo’s 100-acre property. Many of those animals and crops are uncommon or endangered. The Zoo could be very lively in conservation analysis and species preservation and has been a pioneer within the idea of open-air, cageless reveals that re-create pure animal habitats.
Many guests come to see the Australian Outback habitat, Polar Bear Plunge, Elephant Odyssey, and the Children’s Zoo (at present closed for renovation). Its small hills and valleys, along with the shade supplied by foliage, make it a preferred place to easily stroll, although the Skyfari tram and bus excursions lower down on strolling in case you’re not up for it.
Even in case you solely have half a day to spend right here, it’s properly definitely worth the value of admission, although a full day is advisable (or keep till the children run out of steam).
Buy San Diego Zoo low cost tickets with my particular low cost beneath.
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16. LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA
LEGOLAND California is a must-visit attraction for households with youngsters ages 2–12. Older siblings and fogeys can get in on the enjoyable, too. There are greater than 60 rides, 4-D motion pictures, and constructing actions. Kids notably love buying and selling mini figures with workers across the park, studying to drive in kid-sized LEGO automobiles, the Dragon Coaster and Miniland USA with its LEGO skyscraper.
In the hotter months, LEGOLAND Water Park is a superb place to chill off, and SEA LIFE Aquarium is a variety of enjoyable year-round. In summer time, particularly when the water parks are open every day, LEGO-loving households can and do spend a number of days right here.
Tip: Before planning a visit to LEGOLAND, it’s VERY essential to examine their calendar as a result of the park is closed on choose Tuesdays and Wednesdays between September and February. The water parks are additionally open on weekends or seasonally throughout the faculty 12 months.
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17. SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO
Families from around the globe come to San Diego particularly to go to SeaWorld San Diego.
In addition to its marine reveals, SeaWorld San Diego additionally has a number of thrilling rides just like the Manta curler coaster and Shipwreck Rapids. Plus, there’s the favored Sesame Street Bay of Play for younger youngsters, making it one of many finest issues to do in San Diego for households as a result of it caters to all ages of children.
Other highlights at SeaWorld San Diego embrace Turtle Reef, Penguin Encounter, sea lion feedings (visitors should buy a tray of fish and toss it to them), Otter Outlook, and varied contact swimming pools. The once-famous dwell orca reveals have been changed by lovely documentary movies of orcas within the wild on a three-story display screen, and there are nonetheless dwell sea lion and dolphin reveals.
Like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego can simply be visited in half a day, although a full day is really helpful to benefit from the actions right here.
Buy SeaWorld San Diego low cost tickets utilizing one of many following strategies:
- Go San Diego (Use promo code LJM10SDO for 10% off )
- aRes Travel (good discounted SeaWorld San Diego tickets and ticket/lodge packages)
- Promotions on SeaWorld San Diego (they, not like different native theme parks, usually run ticket specials)
18. SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK
Consider additionally visiting the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, which is unquestionably one in all San Diego’s finest vacationer sights. It’s a part of San Diego Zoo Global and provides a really totally different expertise than the Zoo as a result of lots of the animals roam in massive environments that mimic the African and Asian savannas.
Here, undoubtedly decide to take a experience in one of many open-air tram safaris that circle across the varied enclosures. These are actually fascinating guided excursions that get you up shut and private with giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and different animals.
You may also do a zipline safari that gives you a one-of-a-kind fowl’s eye view of the park or e-book a behind-the-scenes tour. Refer to my detailed San Diego Zoo Safari Park information earlier than you go.
Buy San Diego Zoo Safari Park low cost tickets utilizing my unique promo code:
ACCESS MY EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT
Check for unpublished deeper financial savings on tickets by means of my partnership with aRes Travel, a licensed San Diego Zoo Safari Park ticket vendor.
*By texting the phrase SAFARI to 1-833-490-0799 you comply with obtain automated promotional messages with find out how to safe my deeper ticket low cost and this settlement isn’t a situation of any buy. Msg and information charges might apply. 2 msg/mo. Reply STOP to cancel. Read my full privateness coverage.
19. SESAME STREET PLACE
The new Sesame Place San Diego theme park provides a pleasant mixture of water park and conventional theme park actions – most with a Sesame Street theme. There are huge water slides and little ones, a lazy river, and water play areas. But you possibly can keep dry in order for you, too, on young-kid-friendly carousels and mini coasters.
You undoubtedly must examine the park calendar earlier than arriving as a result of they don’t seem to be open every day throughout the fall and winter months.
Buy low cost Sesame Place San Diego tickets:
20. BELMONT PARK — OUR SEASIDE AMUSEMENT PARK
Belmont Park San Diego is our seaside amusement park situated in Mission Beach. You can experience the historic Big Dipper curler coaster, that was inbuilt 1925, along with different carnival rides. Kids like taking part in laser tag, driving bumper automobiles, and taking part in arcade video games.
You can seize a Dole Whip or a beer at Cannonball. It’s free to enter Belmont Park, however you’ll need to purchase a wristband or sights cross in any other case, a la carte pricing provides up.
21. BIRCH AQUARIUM AT SCRIPPS
It’s technically a museum, however in case you’re searching for leisure mixed with schooling, Birch Aquarium at Scripps is one in all my favourite choices.
You’ll see sea life representing not solely what’s in our a part of the Pacific Ocean however different elements of the California Current from the Pacific Northwest right down to California, to the nice and cozy Mexico waters, and eventually, the Indo-Pacific coral reefs.
There are hands-on reveals that train the significance of caring for the atmosphere. Oh, and so they simply opened an exhibit devoted to Little Blue Penguins! They are lovable. And, don’t neglect your digicam as a result of the views from the again patio are spectacular.
Balboa Park Museums & Things to Do
Balboa Park is the nation’s largest city cultural park with a number of parks, trails, play areas, and 17 museums. It is a real metropolis treasure, and there are such a lot of issues to do in Balboa Park for nearly everybody.
Tip: It is free to stroll by means of Balboa Park to take pleasure in its climbing trails, gardens, playgrounds for teenagers, and public areas. To go to the museums, it’s best to have a cross that permits you to go to a couple of as they don’t seem to be massive.
You can check out the Balboa Park Explorer cross as a bundled museum possibility. Balboa Park museums can be included on the Go San Diego cross with many different San Diego sights.
Below we’ve highlighted prime Balboa Park museums and different issues to do.
22. SAN DIEGO NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM (THENAT)
Go to find out about our space’s natural world by means of their huge assortment, and also you’ll see why native youngsters love the San Diego Natural History Museum.
23. FLEET SCIENCE CENTER
Fleet Science Center is one other enjoyable household San Diego museum with a great deal of hands-on reveals showcasing science by means of play. They additionally present quick motion pictures in an IMAX dome theater.
24. MUSEUM OF US
Climb the California Tower for probably the most spectacular views in San Diego. Wander by means of the anthropology reveals inside that showcase the human relationship with animals, race, our ancestors, and even beer.
25. MOPA
Museum of Photographic Arts is likely one of the few museums totally devoted to pictures. Don’t neglect to browse the museum reward store for neat prints, presents, and devices.
26. SAN DIEGO MUSEUM OF ART
Our high-quality artwork museum boasts an emphasis on Spanish artwork with a set that features Goya and Rubens.
27. SAN DIEGO AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM
Here, you’ll see actual and reproduction and unique plane and spacecraft along with MaxFlight simulators and different hands-on reveals all ages love.
28. JAPANESE FRIENDSHIP GARDEN
The Japanese Friendship Garden is a beautiful place for a stroll throughout any season however notably fairly when the leaves change within the fall or cherry blossoms bloom in spring. Keep a watch out for particular occasions.
29. TAKE A HIKE
Pick one of many Balboa Park trails in case you’re searching for outside issues to do in San Diego. You can take a brief hike or one so long as a number of hours. Grab the path information.
30. EXPLORE THE GARDENS
Be positive to take discover of the assorted gardens scattered all through the Park. There’s the Zoro butterfly backyard, the Trees for Health Garden (medicinal crops), the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, and a number of other others.
31. DINE AL FRESCO
Plan to eat when you’re right here as a result of there are some fantastic eating places in Balboa Park.
Alfresco eating at both the Japanese Friendship Garden for Japanese meals favorites or Panama 66 with its craft cocktails are our favourite decisions. But, after all, I’ve a information for consuming in Balboa Park.
Our National Park and State Reserves: Hikes, Views, and More
Our prime sights in San Diego are must-see state parks and Cabrillo National Monument, which is our solely National Park. They are outside actions that supply way more than fairly surroundings.
32. CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT
Cabrillo National Monument on the finish of Point Loma pays tribute to the invention of California by Spanish Eyou’llr Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo. Here, you’ll discover a statue that pays tribute to Cabrillo with a backdrop of panoramic ocean and metropolis views right down to the Coronado bridge.
A community of climbing trails wraps across the Pacific Ocean aspect of Point Loma within the park, the place ocean views abound. Along the best way, you’ll cross some historic constructions like WWII bunkers and the Old Point Loma Lighthouse.
During winter low tides, you’ll additionally be capable of discover a few of San Diego’s finest tide swimming pools right here. The solely admission payment that you simply pay is to park your automotive, and you’ll seize a map on the Visitor Center.
Tip: From right here, its’ not that far to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. Or you possibly can cease for lunch on the best way in or out of Point Loma at LIt’sty Station Public Market on Rosecrans Avenue.
33. TORREY PINES STATE NATURAL RESERVE
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one other widespread spot with guests and locals for its family-friendly gentle to reasonable climbing trails and ocean views. It’s one in all two locations the endangered Torrey Pine tree grows. You can pair a go to right here with Torrey Pines State State Beach.
There’s a steep path right down to Black’s Beach although it’s simpler in case you’re a surfer carrying a surfboard to entry it from Torrey Pines State Beach or La Jolla Shores (albeit an extended stroll from both).
Tip: The close by Torrey Pines Gliderport is the place you’ll fly tandem on a first-come, first-served foundation with an teacher. Grab a sandwich or salad on the informal cafe right here to eat on the picnic tables when you watch the colourful gliders fly throughout the sky in Southern California’s sunshine.
Downtown San Diego: From the Embarcadero to Gaslamp Quarter
Spend a day or half-day in downtown San Diego’s waterfront Embarcadero leisure space.
Some of our hottest vacationer sights are right here, the views over San Diego Bay are incredible, and also you’ll have easy accessibility to a few of our greatest eating places on the Embarcadero (there are a number of within the new Portside Pier to attempt). Plus, you possibly can stroll in between every little thing, which makes sightseeing a breeze.
34. USS MIDWAY MUSEUM
If you’re occupied with army historical past, you should go to the USS Midway Museum. The plane provider is completely docked within the bay and is likely one of the most unusual museums on the earth.
Take the self-guided audio tour and look out for docents. Many of them really served on the USS Midway. You’ll additionally take pleasure in wandering across the army plane on the flight deck. During regular instances you possibly can climb into a number of the cockpits.
35. MARITIME MUSEUM OF SAN DIEGO
The Maritime Museum of Diego is residence to what’s thought of one of many world’s finest collections of historic ships. This can be an awesome cease for historical past followers.
You can see genuine and reproduction ships at this floating maritime museum and be capable of stroll on board the Star of India, the world’s oldest lively ship. It’s docked proper on the Embarcadero, so an awesome spot for images.
36. WAR MEMORIALS AND STATUES
On the south aspect of the USS Midway Museum, you possibly can’t miss the Unconditional Surrender kissing statue. But as you stroll towards it, check out a number of the struggle memorials which are a part of the “Greatest Generation Collection.”
37. PORTSIDE PIER
When it’s time for a drink or a meal, and also you’re strolling the Embarcadero, cease on the new Portside Pier, which has eating at Ketch, Brigantine, Miguel’s, and Topside eating places with a view. Or, simply cease for a photograph opp on the viewing deck.
38. SEAPORT VILLAGE
Get prepared to buy and eat on the waterfront Seaport Village which has about 50 outlets and 17 eateries, to not point out occasional busking and a classic carousel.
39. GASLAMP QUARTER
The hub of San Diego nightlife awaits within the historic Gaslamp Quarter, the place you’ll discover dance golf equipment, speakeasies, and festive bars to It’srtain all tastes.
Nightlife apart, guests love the assorted outlets and different notable eating places on this 16-block space.
40. PETCO PARK
Our Major League Baseball staff, the San Diego Padres, performs residence video games at PETCO Park which has a number of the finest sight traces in baseball. Not to say a few of our favourite San Diego eating places, so eating is a deal with.
When the Padres aren’t on the town or throughout the low season, you possibly can take a guided tour of the park.
41. NEW CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
If you go to San Diego with younger kids, they’ll love the hands-on artwork and artistic enjoyable at New Children’s Museum. Every exhibit is designed to show by means of play. Advanced reservations or tickets are required.
More Historic Neighborhoods and Places
42. OLD TOWN SAN DIEGO STATE HISTORIC PARK
Old Town San Diego is a prime vacationer attraction that encompasses OId Town State Historic Park and is taken into account the birthplace of California.
It’s free to enter, and there are a number of small museums in Nineteenth-century wood-frame and adobe buildings that showcase what life was like in early California. Even locals like to come back and benefit from the Mexican meals eating places and dwell performances right here.
43. LITTLE ITALY SAN DIEGO
Walking distance to Little Italy from the Embarcadero is only a few blocks. So, if you end up on the tip close to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, stroll a number of blocks to fulfill your cravings (examine my checklist of Little Italy eating places). Look out for the Saturday farmers market, which could be very widespread with locals.
44. HOTEL DEL CORONADO
The most continuously booked lodge in our portfolio is the historic Hotel del Coronado, inbuilt 1888. U.S. Presidents, Hollywood elite, and VIPs have all laid their heads on this San Diego lodge.
It’s our greatest and hottest San Diego lodge on the seashore. The Windsor Cottage, the place Beach Village at The Del visitors dine, is called for its previous because the Coronado residence of Wallace Simpson, the girl Prince Edward abdicated the English throne for.
If you propose to remain there, you undoubtedly must learn my Hotel del Coronado assessment and e-book in with my Virtuoso advantages at no additional value to you.
But even in case you’re not staying there, you possibly can add a go to to your San Diego itinerary as a result of the general public can entry its eating places and outlets in addition to stroll round.
Water Sports: Mission Bay, La Jolla & Beyond
45. MISSION BAY WATER SPORTS
Visitors to San Diego who’re occupied with water sports activities might need to keep close to or not less than plan on visiting Mission Bay. The artifical bay supplies calm water and waveless seashores for teenagers.
Things to do at Mission Bay embrace stand-up paddleboarding, crusing, and kayaking. Boat leases for fishing, water snowboarding, and leisure can be found, however in case you’re hungry for extra thrilling actions, you can additionally step it up a notch by attempting a water-powered jet pack.
Trails for strolling, working, and biking circle the bay, passing by a number of playgrounds and grassy areas which are excellent for picnics and play — all are free to make use of. There can be RV parking and even an city campground.
If you’re coming to San Diego particularly to surf, sail, kayak, or paddleboard, it’s best to know that a number of the Mission Bay lodges and resorts have water sports activities exercise facilities onsite in any other case, you possibly can attempt Mission Bay Aquatic Center. It takes about 10-Quarter-hour to succeed in the bay from downtown San Diego, relying on which bay location is your closing vacation spot.
You may also stroll a number of blocks on the west aspect of the bay to Mission Beach and its informal vibe, the place Belmont Park, our beachfront amusement park, can be situated.
46. SAN DIEGO-LA JOLLA UNDERWATER PARK
Believe it or not, many locals are unaware that beneath the ocean’s floor, roughly between La Jolla Cove and Scripps Pier, lies the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park.
Its 6,000 acres signify 4 habitats that embrace rocky reefs, kelp beds, sand flats, and a submarine canyon. The mixture of habitats really makes it in order that the waves listed here are light and ideal for launching kayaks and studying find out how to surf.
There are guided diving, snorkeling, and kayak excursions of the park. You may also hire a kayak or carry your personal snorkel gear and discover it your self. Plus, you possibly can even swim out to it from La Jolla Cove.
Bordering the underwater park are seven sea caves, solely one in all which — Sunny Jim Cave — is accessible by land. You can see them by kayak or arise paddleboard, and you’ll typically kayak by means of one in all them on a guided tour, relying on the currents.
Marine life generally seen right here consists of our resident sea lions, Garibaldi (California’s state fish), shovelnose guitarfish, leopard sharks, and extra. The underwater visibility is sort of good for California. There are even a handful of sea turtle sightings in summer time.
Popular water sports activities right here embrace:
- Surfing and browsing classes on the La Jolla Shores aspect (surfers beware that you could’t use surfboards or boogie boards on the La Jolla Cove aspect)
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Kayak excursions to the ocean caves (and even for seasonal whale watching)
- Snorkeling excursions
Need gear or classes? There are a wide range of wonderful native companies within the La Jolla Shores space that hire out gear, present classes, and supply organized excursions.
Try Surf Diva for browsing and SUP classes, particularly for teenagers (studying to surf is the quintessential SoCal expertise). I additionally advocate Everyday California.
EXCLUSIVE EVERYDAY CALIFORNIA DISCOUNT
Use code lajollamom for a 20% low cost on kayak and snorkeling excursions, classes, and leases. Book now.
47. SAN DIEGO BAY WATER SPORTS
There isn’t a seashore alongside San Diego Bay, actually, however that’s okay. You can reap the benefits of water sports activities right here, too. Several shops on Harbor Island close to the airport supply jet ski, paddleboard, kayak, photo voltaic boat, and velocity boat leases.
Fun Sightseeing Tours
There are a wide range of enjoyable methods to go sightseeing alongside the San Diego Bay, which is a pure harbor and deepwater port that spans alongside Point Loma and across the downtown San Diego space to Coronado Island.
You can stroll from Little Italy, Seaport Village, and the Gaslamp Quarter to the place most of those excursions depart. Bay excursions are among the finest issues to do in San Diego. It’s a calming approach to get a broad view of the town earlier than you begin visiting sights and historic landmarks.
But these usually are not the one sightseeing excursions you’ll need to partake in when visiting San Diego. You can discover San Diego by way of hop-on, hop-off trolley, and even kayak by means of sea caves.
48. OLD TOWN TROLLEY
If you’re looking for a approach to sightsee and get round city, a day cross on the Old Town Trolley is one resolution. You can hop on and off at your leisure or simply experience its loop to take pleasure in some sightseeing.
It makes stops between Coronado and Old Town, together with the Embarcadero and Balboa Park. Buy your tickets.
49. SEAL TOURS
Kids specifically love taking a Seal Tour. The bus-boat begins off on land at both the Embarcadero or Seaport Village after which plunges into the San Diego harbor for a distinct take a look at the downtown skyline.
A cheeky information narrates the tour, and also you’ll doubtless see birds and possibly a sea lion or related within the water as properly.
50. PATRIOT JET BOAT
This is a high-speed, 30-minute thrill experience with spins, methods, and turns at speeds of as much as 50 mph. It’s operated by Flagship Cruises and Events and could be very widespread with teenagers.
51. WHALE WATCHING TOURS
Along our slice of California coast, you possibly can see gray whales migrating between December and April. Summer brings blue whales to our waters (undoubtedly take a tour as a result of they swim additional out than grey whales do).
Plus, you possibly can see pilot and different whales in between. It’s finest to take a whale watching tour from a good firm like Flagship Cruises or City Experiences.
52. SAN DIEGO BAY SIGHTSEEING AND DINING CRUISES
Head out into the bay on a one or two-hour San Diego harbor cruise that can take you alongside the Point Loma peninsula and round to the Coronado Bridge.
However, you can too e-book a themed eating cruise — like Hops on the Harbor or Champagne Sunday Brunch — that takes the same route.
Tip: It’s additionally straightforward to expertise the San Diego Bay with out taking a tour. The bayside walkway alongside the Embarcadero stretches from roughly the airport to the Convention Center.
53. SAN DIEGO SPEED BOAT ADVENTURES
You can drive your personal mini velocity boat as a part of a narrated group bay tour. The boats seat two adults an one baby and this is likely one of the hottest excursions on the bay.
54. CORONADO FERRY
See the San Diego skyline in your approach to and from Coronado Island throughout the 15-minute ferry experience departing from the downtown Embarcadero.
55. LA JOLLA KAYAK AND SNORKELING TOURS
We touched on these briefly above when discussing the La Jolla Underwater Park. But I point out them once more right here as a result of individuals usually inform me that these excursions had been an sudden spotlight. Any of the tour operators in La Jolla Shores are good however we like Surf Diva and Everyday California.
56. FOOD TOURS
Some meals corporations supply themed meals excursions of particular San Diego neighborhoods that you’d need to go to anyway in your journey. For instance, So Diego provides a culinary historical past tour of Old Town and a wine stroll by means of Little Italy.
Learn extra and e-book: 11 Popular San Diego Bay Tours
Eat & Drink: From Tacos to Craft Beer
Speaking of meals, right here’s some to hunt out.
57. TAKE A BREWERY TOUR
When it involves issues to do in San Diego for the age 21+ customer, brewery excursions are very fashionable. At the time of this writing, there are over 200 breweries in San Diego. It’s probably the most breweries of any county within the United States, which makes our metropolis an ideal vacation spot for craft beer lovers.
How you discover the brewery tradition right here depends upon your tastes and site, however choices canIt’slude a non-public information, on a Social Cycle pedaling by means of the Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, by practice up the shoreline (stopping alongside the best way), and easily looking for out city breWarwick’sar your lodge. You is not going to run out of latest beer to attempt to can knock out some sightseeing alongside the best way.
58. EAT A FISH TACO
San Diego is known for fish tacos. You ought to eat a number of when you’re right here. Popular locations embrace Oscar’s Mexican Seafood in Pacific Beach, George’s California Modern in La Jolla, and South Beach in Pacific Beach, amongst others. They’re in every single place — you possibly can even discover them at Albert’s at San Diego Zoo.
59. DINE WITH A VIEW
It’s straightforward to search out eating places alongside the San Diego shoreline for sundown or Pacific Ocean views in all value ranges. For high-quality eating, attempt The Marine Room, which has particular excessive tide dinners and breakfasts the place the water crashes onto the restaurant’s home windows.
Poseidon in Del Mar can be widespread for seafood and California fare. You may even dine beachfront at Belmont Park at Cannonball.
60. BROWSE A PUBLIC MARKET OR FOOD HALL
You’ll have three to select from now. Liberty Public Market in Point Loma is arguably the most important and strives to showcase native artisan ready meals, beer, specialty cocktails, produce, and extra.
Little Italy Food Hall is of a a lot smaller scale although it options a few the identical retailers like The Mini Donut and Wicked Maine Lobster. In complete, there are 9 stations (others embrace Ambrogio 15 and Bobboi, which have shops close to my home that we frequent usually), the place you possibly can order meals to take to the patio eating or take pleasure in at one of many handful of tables inside.
Old Town Food Hall is model new, and I can’t wait to test it out in individual. As you may think, with a location in California’s birthplace the place one can take pleasure in scrumptious Mexican meals, you’ll discover a taqueria, Bthey’repired seafood, elote, presents, and extra.
Best Shopping Areas and Malls
Of course, issues to do in San Diego for some contain buying. Here’s the place San Diego residents go.
61. CEDROS AVENUE
This multi-block mixture of inside design outlets, cafes, and companies in Solana Beach is one in all my favorites on the town. You’ll discover principally housewares, presents, and clothes boutiques throughout 2.5 blocks – no huge model names, actually. Don’t miss SoLo and Bixby & Ball.
62. PROSPECT STREET AND BEYOND IN LA JOLLA
Prospect Street is called the Rodeo Drive of San Diego. It’s lined with eating places, boutiques, and artwork galleries. Several streets like Girard and Herschel intersect Prospect and are additionally lined with outlets.
We like Hi Sweetheart (Herschel) and Warwick’s America’sfts, too – Girard), amongst others. See my La Jolla buying information.
63. WESTFIELD UTC
This is our greatest shopping center with a great deal of must-eat institutions starting from Din Tai Fung to Happy Lemon boba. Designer shops are popping up like Louis Vuitton, however the principle division retailer anchor is Nordstrom.
The mall was not too long ago renovated to incorporate a bunch of outside residing areas full with attractive planters and is simply actually nice to stroll round.
64. FASHION VALLEY MALL
Honestly, I desire Westfield UTC today in case you simply need to browse a shopping center. However, that is the place you’ll discover designer shops like Gucci and Prada. And it’s residence to San Diego’s solely Bloomingdales and Neiman Marcus.
There are extra informal shops like H&M and Gap additionally scattered in between. And it’s handy to Mission Valley lodges.
Annual San Diego Events to Attend
Let’s name this #65 on the checklist for now, despite the fact that there are a number of occasions to say.
Annual occasions massive and small additionally carry guests to San Diego on day journeys and lengthy journeys. You’ve in all probability heard of a few of them, and it’s price seeing what’s taking place in San Diego throughout your go to so you possibly can plan forward.
Be conscious that if you’re attending a particular annual occasion in San Diego, it helps to plan properly prematurely because the metropolis can get crowded and tickets to native sights can promote out.
These are simply a number of the occasions that draw individuals right here from throughout:
- The Farmer’s Insurance Open (January)
- San Diego County Fair (June – July)
- Del Mar Racing Season (July – September)
- San Diego Comic-Con (July)
- Padres Major League Baseball Season at PETCO Park (March – October)
Note: If you’re NOT attending one in all these San Diego occasions, keep away from looking for San Diego lodges close to the place they’re taking place as a result of charges could also be a lot larger than ordinary.
The Top 10 Things to Do in San Diego
Sometimes, individuals desire a quick checklist of issues to do. With that in thoughts, listed here are the highest 10 issues to do in San Diego.
- Go to the seashore
- See the San Diego Zoo or one other theme park
- Visit Balboa Park and its museums
- Enjoy water sports activities — discover ways to surf, go snorkeling, kayak sea caves, and extra
- Eat a fish taco (pair it with a craft beer)
- Visit La Jolla Cove and see the seals/sea lions
- See Old Town San Diego
- Take a stroll or a hike someplace scenic
- See sights on the downtown Embarcadero, like USS Midway
- Dine on the water – wherever!
FAQs About Things to Do in San Diego, California
Learn much more about why San Diego is known as America’s Finest City.
WHAT CAN YOu Do FOR FREE IN SAN DIEGO?
Some of the most effective issues to do in San Diego, CA are literally free. The primary free factor to do is go to the seashore. Visiting Old Town San Diego doesn’t value a penny until you buy souvenirs or dine in a restaurant.
The identical goes for the Gaslamp Quarter and Balboa Park (most museums are at a further value). Attractions in San Diego embrace a myriad of no-cost climbing trails, parks, self-guided artwork walks, and way more to do. For extra info, see my checklist of 100 free issues to do in San Diego.
WHAT IS POPULAR IN SAN DIEGO?
The world-famous San Diego Zoo is San Diego’s hottest attraction due to its gorgeous format with reveals mimicking the animal’s pure habitat, proximity to downtown and the airport, and botanical backyard.
Outdoor actions are additionally extremely widespread whether or not you hit the seashores, take pleasure in water sports activities, discover ways to surf, and even go scuba diving.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO FOR ADULTS IN SAN DIEGO?
Aside from theme parks, grownup vacationers are inclined to take pleasure in the identical issues that children do in San Diego, just like the seashores, hikes, and waterfront leisure areas — with one exception.
We don’t have the identical nightlife as, say, Los Angeles, however we’re the craft beer capital of the United States, with over 220 breweries.
In truth, many adults go to San Diego simply to pattern beer, and our culinary choices have additionally risen to the event with incredible eating places sprinkled all through the county. Of course, there are a number of widespread speakeasies, nightclubs, and bars to discover within the Gaslamp Quarter.
WHAT IS THERE TO DO FOR KIDS IN SAN DIEGO?
San Diego household holidays might be taken year-round, because of our temperate climate and relatively-consistent sunshine. Whether your youngsters are infants or teenagers, there’s a lot for them to do right here, from theme parks to free and enjoyable outside actions.
Read my final information to issues to do in San Diego with youngsters and my checklist of widespread teen actions.
WHAT IS FAMOUS IN SAN DIEGO?
San Diego is residence to well-known landmarks but in addition reaps the advantages of getting a superb location and a Major League Baseball staff. San Diego is known for:
- 70 miles of shoreline, together with attractive seashores
- Year-round sunshine
- Hotel del Coronado (It’s one of many final remaining Victorian seashore resorts that boasts an extended checklist of notable visitors, has been in a number of well-known motion pictures, and can be rumored to be haunted.)
- San Diego-Coronado Bridge
- San Diego Zoo (it’s well-known for being one of many largest zoos within the United States but in addition for its conservation efforts, assortment of uncommon animals, and incredible format.
- Craft Beer
- San Diego Padres
What are your favourite issues to do in San Diego?
Find More Things to Do in Famous San Diego County Cities & Neighborhoods
If you end up in a sure a part of city, dive somewhat deeper into my different lists of issues to do in San Diego by curiosity, neighborhood, or journey type.