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The 18 Best Things to Do in San Diego, From Art Museum Visits to Scenic Hikes

By Archana Ram and Marie Tutko

Some may scoff at its nickname—"America's Finest City"—but when it comes to things to do, San Diego offers more than just temperate weather year-round. Yes, as befitting any city in Southern California, there are pristine beaches; but there's also a vibrant arts scene; food and music that embrace the diversity of cultures here; and a rich military history that lend San Diego its distinct charm. As for that temperate weather—well, it means it's easy to get outside and enjoy some of the country's best hiking, biking, and surfing spots. Whatever has brought you to town, be sure to stop by the places on this list, a roster of the best things to do in San Diego.

Read our complete San Diego travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Arrow

A short 30-minute drive outside of downtown San Diego , this 1,750-acre oceanfront reserve promises sweeping ocean views for hikers. ( See our  favorite San Diego area hikes, here. ) The reserve is dedicated to preserving its namesake tree, the Torrey Pine, and surrounding wildlife, but travelers and locals come for the miles of trails through pine forests and sandstone canyons, and the 4.5-mile Torrey Pines State Beach. Torrey Pines is no hidden secret, but there's a reason crowds flock here. Plans to go are easy to make: The reserve is open 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset, and all entering cars must pay an admission fee, which ranges from $10-$25 (or free with a California State Parks Vehicle Day Use Pass ), depending on whether you park in the the North or South Beach parking lots. Keep in mind the visitors center is currently closed and guided hikes aren't offered at the moment.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego — Museum Review Arrow

This local institution devoted to showcasing modern art is perched right across from the Pacific Ocean in the tony coastal community of La Jolla just outside San Diego , and recently reopened its doors after an extensive $105 million overhaul. This is the flagship location for the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (there is a second location downtown), and the building was originally designed by architect Irving Gill as a home for philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps–it was later converted into a museum in 1941. Today, MCASD has more than 4,000 pieces from renowned and emerging artists in its collection. If you’re pressed for time, be sure to check out what’s on display in the special exhibition gallery, as well as the paintings by Andy Warhol.

San Diego Zoo Arrow

The world-renowned San Diego Zoo spans 100 acres and houses more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Plan to spend at least a half-day at the zoo to get the full experience, which includes shows and animal presentations. During the summer, Nighttime Zoo event series allows visitors to stay later into the evening. There are plenty of restaurants throughout the park where parents can recuperate with a much-needed afternoon beer.

Torrey Pines Golf Course Arrow

The iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course is known for its two 18-hole championship courses that sit on a cliff overlooking the Pacific. From the scenery and challenging greens to the prestige factor, this course is a bucket-list destination for avid golfers—Tiger Woods has clinched career-defining wins here, and the word is former President Obama has teed off here, too. Every January, it hosts the Farmers Insurance Open, one of the top events in the PGA Tour, and the U.S. Open was held here in 2021. There's diverse terrain, ocean views, and hang gliders usually floating around holes 12 and 13 on the south course.

CNT Editors

Todd Plummer

Caitlin Morton

Lale Arikoglu

Belmont Park Arrow

Amusement parks can be kitschy, indulgent, and a little cheesy—and at Belmont Park, we embrace it. The ocean-adjacent mini amusement park is hard to miss as you drive west on Mission Bay Drive, thanks to the towering Giant Dipper, a 2,600-foot-long roller coaster that soars above the park and offers ocean views. If you're ready for more, have a go on other classics like the Tilt-a-Whirl, zipline, or bumper cars. For lower-octane pursuits, there's also an arcade and carousel.

Balboa Park Arrow

Balboa Park is the cultural heart of San Diego , filled with world-class museums, restaurants, and beautiful greenery. The lush, 1,200-acre urban oasis is also home to nearly 30 museums and cultural centers, plus the world-famous San Diego Zoo. There are more than a dozen attractions in the park, each with its own events and special exhibitions.

La Jolla Cove Arrow

Luxuriate in SoCal splendor in the upscale seaside village of La Jolla Cove, a quick 20-minute drive from downtown San Diego . Wind through Prospect Street to browse shops like the iconic Warwick’s, the nation's oldest family-run bookstore, or dine with an ocean view at high-end restaurants like seafood-centric George’s at the Cove. Walk along seaside Coast Boulevard for primo photo ops of the cliffs, stopping at the Children’s Pool to watch sunbathing seals camped on the rocks. Head to Peter Lik fine art gallery for awe-inspiring landscape photography . And, if you need to, recharge your battery at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a grassy area ideal for picnics and watching the sunset. Fun fact: It's the most-photographed place in San Diego.

Little Italy Arrow

This quaint neighborhood is the place to go for charming Italian restaurants and bakeries, wine bars, and boutique shopping. The main thoroughfare along India Street is home to trusty favorite Italian spots like Barbusa, Buon Appetito, and Civico 1845, but the neighborhood has made room for several non-Italian restaurants in recent years, such as Ironside Fish & Oyster , Juniper & Ivy , and Queenstown Public House. There's also a popular farmers market on Saturdays. The nightlife scene in Little Italy draws people in their thirties and forties.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá Arrow

There are 21 missions dotting the California coast, and San Diego lays claim to the first. Established in 1769, Mission San Diego de Alcalá is the physical representation of Christianity's birth on the West Coast. Even today, you can worship here—it's an active parish with Mass held daily—but even if you aren't a practicing Catholic, the mission is still a sight to behold, with white stucco walls, Spanish roof tiles, and grand archways. It stands on a hill overlooking Old Town with gorgeous views.

Petco Park Arrow

Petco Park is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening in San Diego , but the appeal doesn't stop at baseball. The stadium was named the best MLB ballpark to watch a game at by USA Today in 2022, and is among the few in the nation with a water view–it's a stone's throw from San Diego Bay. Hop heads will love the stellar local craft beer options: there are more than 40 different varieties poured at stalls and restaurants around the stadium. And with more than 50 dining options, Petco Park's culinary appeal stretches far beyond hot dogs. Many local restaurants run operations in the stadium, including Carnitas’ Snack Shack, Hodad’s, and Grand Ole BBQ. Some notable eateries that opened here in the past year include famed soup dumpling purveyor Din Tai Fung, Sambazon (acai bowls), Jack in the Box (the company was founded in San Diego) and San Diego’s Finest Hot Chicken.

Sunset Cliffs Arrow

Set atop jagged, postcard-worthy sea cliffs, San Diego 's aptly named Sunset Cliffs neighborhood rewards visitors with panoramic ocean views. Hands down San Diego's most popular spot at dusk, Sunset Cliffs attracts a crowd nightly for its serene, picture-perfect views. Part of the neighborhood overlaps with Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a 68-acre reserve known for its sea caves, rock arch formations, and extremely steep bluffs. Follow a path along the cliffs for a scenic walk, while making note of the sprawling homes nearby. Head up the hill to the nearby Little Lion Café for a healthy, Cali-bistro fare to-go or dine on their small patio. Or grab classic French dessert with a Cuban twist—like passion fruit caramels and a mango cheesecake—at Chef Vivian Hernandez-Jackson's excellent neighborhood patisserie Azucar and head to the water for a sweet sunset.

Del Mar Racetrack Arrow

The Del Mar Racetrack is a spectacle for high rollers and casual gamblers alike, with lightening-fast horse races that'll get your heart pumping. The track is open Thursday through Sunday, holding about eight to 12 races daily. There are 30 minutes between races to place your bets or refill your drink. In general, it's mostly adults here, but during the track's non-racing hours, the venue holds special events like food truck festivals and concerts that can bring a more diverse age range. General admission tickets are $8.

USS Midway Museum Arrow

This 971-foot-long floating museum is the best way to learn about and honor San Diego 's significant naval community. The decommissioned aircraft carrier is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego. Visitors can get a taste of navy life by visiting the plane-packed flight deck, sprawling hangar bay, mess hall, and berthing. The museum hosts about 400 active-duty military events annually—including reenlistment, retirement, and change-of-command ceremonies—which are all open for the public to observe.

Cabrillo National Monument Arrow

This nature preserve and historic site at the edge of the Point Loma peninsula is one of the most picturesque spots in San Diego . It’s about 20 minutes from downtown, with the scenic ocean views starting from the moment you drive in. Once you park at the visitor center, you’re treated to panoramic views of San Diego Bay, downtown, Coronado, and the naval station on North Island. On clear afternoons, you can see all the way to Tijuana, Mexico. The park spans 140-plus acres, and there’s plenty of outdoor activities here from hiking trails to exploring tide pools, or just enjoying the views from one of the many overlooks. Cabrillo National Monument is a landmark where several milestones in San Diego’s modern history converge.

The Whaley House Museum Arrow

The Whaley House Museum has been called one of the most haunted houses in the United States. The two-story Greek Revival-style home was built by businessman Thomas Whaley in 1857, and the Whaleys experienced several tragedies after moving into the home, including the deaths of two of their children. The property was already rumored to be haunted before the home was built since the grounds were once an execution yard, and paranormal activity is said to occur in the house to this day. A guided evening tour is the way to go here. Being in the home after sundown adds to the spine-tingling effect, and the guides–who are dressed in Victorian-era clothing–are enthusiastic storytellers. The details they share about the neighborhood’s history, the Whaley family, and the tragedies that happened on the property makes it all engaging and brings the house to life.

Barrio Logan Arrow

One of California's 14 Cultural Districts, this historic, artsy neighborhood is rooted in Mexican and Chicano cultures. The most obvious proof is Chicano Park, the neighborhood's collection of more than 80 outdoor murals painted onto the concrete girders of the Coronado Bridge. The larger-than-life portraits depict iconic cultural figures, like revolutionary Emiliano Zapata and Aztec goddesses. Many of the hip, modern businesses that have landed are still rooted in the community's culture. There's Por Vida for coffee, Border X Brewing for Mexican-inspired craft beers like a horchata brew, Salud! for street tacos that garners long (long) lines, and Simón Limón, which sells beauty and home goods. And for old-school flavor and some of the best Mexican food in San Diego , don't miss a meal at Las Cuatro Milpas , but get there early—they usually sell out by lunchtime.

Coronado Arrow

The dreamy city of Coronado is an island (technically, a peninsula) stronghold of hotels, resorts, and beach-front restaurants. Make the short, two-mile journey over one of San Diego ’s most recognizable structures, Coronado Bridge, or take the ferry to get there. The main business district, which hugs Orange Avenue, is filled with shops, restaurants, and family-friendly hangouts like MooTime Creamery, so it's a popular spot for families. And, of course, the famous Hotel Del Coronado continues to be a draw.

Cedros Avenue Design District Arrow

Take a stroll down the palm tree-lined Cedros Avenue Design District in sunny Solana Beach to shop at eclectic local independent boutiques, galleries, and home goods stores. With more than 85 shops jam-packed into a petite two-and-a-half blocks, this condensed district can be easily traversed within an afternoon. But you might want to spend more time: there's plenty of local art to catch at the galleries, along with great stores for clothing, and a fantastic farmers market on Sundays.

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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.

1. Balboa Park

2. san diego zoo, 3. gaslamp quarter, 4. midway aircraft carrier museum, 5. seaport village, 6. san diego beaches, 7. old town state historic park, 8. point loma and cabrillo national monument, 9. mission beach, 10. sunset cliffs natural park, 11. san diego harbor cruises, 12. mission basilica san diego de alcala, 13. san diego museum of art, 14. san diego whale watching cruises, 15. san diego air & space museum, 16. outdoor adventures, 17. the new children's museum, 18. seaworld san diego, where to stay in san diego for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to san diego, map of tourist attractions in san diego, best time to visit san diego, ca.

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.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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.

More on California

77 Best & Fun Things to do in San Diego, California [2024]

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Last updated: April 14th, 2023

From exploring unique attractions to finding the best beaches and tacos, here are 97 things to do in San Diego, CA.

San Diaaago! America’s Finest City, Ron Burgundy’s place of work, and one of the sunniest places in California .

There’s a lot to love about this city. And with so much to see and do in San Diego for all ages, it’s no wonder that it’s such a popular place to visit. 

I spent five years living in San Diego, going to school and working at internships and a myriad of jobs to stay afloat during my time in college.

Over that period, I grew to love the city for its perfect weather, beaches, tequila, desert landscape, unique historical nature, and delicious Mexican food.

On top of that, my fiance grew up in San Diego and we go back for regular visits, so you could say I’m a wealth of knowledge when it comes to knowing all the best things to do in the city.

San Diego will always have a soft spot for me, which is why I wanted to write this San Diego bucket list, so you can enjoy my favorite local spots and things to do around the city too. 

From the most popular attractions in San Diego to unique local experiences, these are my picks for the best things to do in San Diego, California!

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Table of Contents

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is the top attraction in San Diego and the place to visit if you want to experience many sights in one place. 

I’ve spent probably a dozen or so sunny afternoons in this sprawling park and I still haven’t seen everything it has to offer.

There are 16 museums in the park; some you can even get into for free on certain Tuesdays if you’re a San Diego resident or in the military.

Besides the museums, Balboa Park also houses 16 gardens and beautiful historical architecture best described as Spanish Colonial Revival.

Caricature artists, balloon animals, and fair foods, such as cotton candy and popcorn, line park boulevards. 

The world-famous San Diego Zoo is also here (which should definitely be on your San Diego to-do list). 

And you’ll sometimes find cool old cars (Chevy Impalas!) parked around the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.

One of my favorite parts of the park is the random carousel near the zoo, which lets you feel like a kid again.

There are so many things to do in Balboa Park that it’s one of the best ways to spend a day in San Diego if you’re trying to see a lot in a short time.

I’d recommend spending at least an afternoon here, if not an entire day.

Check out a few of the different attractions and discover why it’s the most popular place to visit in San Diego. 

Below are the top sights I’d recommend seeing at Balboa Park.

San Diego Zoo

If you love animals, the San Diego Zoo is the place to see a wide variety. 

The huge, 100-acre San Diego Zoo has a reputation for being the best in America and ranks among the top zoos in the world.

The worldwide renown of San Diego’s zoo makes it one of the top things to do in San Diego, California.

There’s plenty to see at the San Diego Zoo, with over 650 species and more than 3,700 different animals.

My favorite exhibits include the panda bear family (be prepared to wait in line to see them) and the Polar Bear Plunge.

The Polar Bear Plunge allows you to see these fantastic creatures in their natural habitat, swimming playfully in the water or hamming it up on the ice.

I had never seen a polar bear swim underwater before visiting the San Diego Zoo and it was magical.

The San Diego Zoo is open 365 days a year. Just note that the hours vary depending on the season.

You can grab your San Diego Zoo tickets ahead of time here . 

Grab your FREE San Diego Travel Planner! You’ll get instant access to printable checklists for what to see in San Diego, as well as travel itineraries and key local travel tips.

Fleet Science Center

The Fleet Science Center is in the very center of Balboa Park, surrounded by numerous other fantastic museums. 

This museum features over a hundred interactive exhibits that demonstrate scientific concepts in a fun and kid-friendly way. 

But the Fleet Science Center isn’t just for kids–people of all ages will find something exciting to discover here.

In addition to the exhibits, the Fleet Science Center also has a planetarium called the Eugene Heikoff and Marilyn Jacobs Heikoff Giant Dome Theater.

You can see IMAX movies, documentaries, and more in the dome theater.

Just note that tickets to showings at the dome are separate from the regular museum admission.

San Diego Natural History Museum (the NAT)

If you’re passionate about science, Balboa Park has a lot to offer.

Just across from the Fleet Science Center lies the San Diego Natural History Museum , where you can dive deep into the natural world.

Dinosaur bones, gems, fossils, shells, and diorama displays are always on view at this museum.

Plus, a rotating series of special exhibitions and unique events (like Dinosaurs of Antarctica) round out the programming.

San Diego Air & Space Museum

The San Diego Air and Space Museum is down towards the park’s southwest corner. 

Here, you’ll find exhibitions that detail everything related to the history of flight–from the first hot air balloon all the way up to modern space exploration.

Currently, there’s a special exhibition on American Women of Flight, which you can visit with your general admission ticket. 

There’s also the Max Flight Interactive Ride, which is a fun flight simulator that requires a separate ticket purchase.

Spanish Village Artist Center

The Spanish Village Artist Center is a colorful corner of the park that showcases every type of local art imaginable.

This historic Spanish Village dates back to the 1936 California Expo. Today, it houses an artists’ collective. 

The buildings are all artist studios that visitors can stroll past along brightly-painted cobblestones that create a magical atmosphere. 

For a more hands-on experience, check out their classes, workshops, and public events roster. 

Museum of Us

Another San Diego museum worth visiting is the Museum of Us . 

Formerly called The Museum of Man, this unique anthropology museum displays exhibits that ask tough questions to explore the human experience.

One of the museum’s ongoing exhibits is the popular community art project, PostSecret.

Other current limited-time exhibits include Cannibals: Myth & Reality, Hostile Terrain 94 (about the humanitarian crisis at the US-Mexican border), and Living with Animals (about our complex history with animals).

Another reason to check out the Museum of Us is that the building includes the California Tower, an intricate piece of architecture that dates back to the 1915 Panama-California Exposition. 

The California Tower is nearly 200 feet tall and an iconic San Diego landmark. You can learn more about the tour that allows you to climb to the top here .

San Diego Museum of Art and Institute of Contemporary Art, San Diego

As you’ve probably noticed already from this list, Balboa Park is chock-full of museums, including some fantastic art museums. 

Just next door to the San Diego Museum of Art is the Institute of Contemporary Art, San Diego .

While the San Diego Museum of Art houses collections from around the world dating back thousands of years, the ICA displays artwork by artists living and producing today. 

Encinitas has a second location known as “ICA North,” while the Balboa location uses the moniker “ICA Central.”

Both locations are free every day through a pay-as-you-wish initiative.

Exhibitions frequently rotate at the ICA San Diego, so there’s always something fresh and new to see. Check their website to see what’s currently showing. 

Visit the San Diego Museum of Art and the ICA back-to-back for an art-filled afternoon! 

Pro tip: If you meet the requirements, you can enjoy Balboa Park Free Tuesdays. This is where different museums offer free admission for San Diego residents, active military personnel, and their dependents. You can find the list of rotating Balboa Park free museums here . 

Japanese Friendship Garden

Another sight located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is a relaxing spot to spend an afternoon in San Diego.

The garden was built to represent the friendship between San Diego and its sister city in Japan, Yokohama, and provides visitors with a unique and chilled-out experience. 

Besides its zen atmosphere and impressive garden and architecture designs, the Japanese Friendship Garden hosts regular events throughout the year.

These events include yoga classes, meditation sessions, and San Diego Sake Day.

If you’re looking for a break from the city without actually needing to leave it, this is a good place to visit in San Diego. 

Organ Performance at Spreckels Pavilion

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One of the more unique things to do in the San Diego area that is completely free is seeing an organ performance at Spreckels Organ Pavilion .

Spreckels Pavilion in Balboa Park hosts free organ concerts every Sunday at 2 pm.

One cool fact is that this organ has been playing in this location for over 100 years, since 1915 when the Panama-California Exposition came through San Diego.

It’s also the largest outdoor musical instrument in the world with 5,019 pipes. 

During the San Diego summer, there are additional Monday evening concerts and silent movie nights accompanied by the live organ.

Old Globe Theatre

Another Balboa Park attraction, the Old Globe Theatre houses a popular theater company in San Diego.

It produces around 15 musicals and plays yearly, providing some solid San Diego entertainment year-round. 

San Diego’s Old Globe Theatre was built in 1935 and was modeled after Shakespeare’s Old Globe Theatre in London. 

If you’re visiting San Diego in December, don’t miss out on their annual production of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas . 

In case you didn’t know, Theodor Seuss Geisel (more commonly known as Dr. Seuss) lived in San Diego for four decades and throughout the height of his writing career.

To give you an idea of how much San Diego loves Dr. Seuss, the library at my alma mater, UCSD, is named Geisel and features Dr. Seuss statues.

Belmont Park

A Mission Beach amusement park, Belmont Park is reminiscent of a summer fair with a fun atmosphere and unique rides that are good for all ages.

My favorite ride at this historic park would probably have to be the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster.

Built in 1925, this wooden coaster rivals the Giant Dipper in Santa Cruz.  

Other favorite rides include the Beach Blaster (a very tall spinning swing) and the Octotron (another spinning ride but one you can control with a joystick).

Pro tip: Belmont Park is one of the best things to do in the city at night if you’re under 21 (for all you younger college kids or parents traveling with teens).

Presidio Park 

San Diego’s Presidio Park is the site of the first European settlement in California, dating back to the eighteenth century. 

This historic park still contains the landmark where Junipero Serra planted a palm tree upon his arrival in 1769. 

To learn more about this Spanish missionary, you can visit the Junipero Serra Museum, located in the park. Or, simply enjoy a picnic on one of the park’s sprawling lawns.

Liberty Station Park

At the site of a former naval training center not far from the airport, Liberty Station Park is more than just a city-run historic park. 

Apart from grassy areas for playing sports and walkways overlooking a San Diego Bay inlet, Liberty Station Park is a public space surrounded by lots of shopping and art. 

Open studios and outdoor public art installations happen on the first Friday of every month, so that’s an excellent time to visit.

And Liberty Public Market is just a few blocks away if you’re looking for a wide array of lunch options. 

Liberty Public Market is another old navy building that has now been converted into a bustling gourmet food court.

Chicano Park

The colorful Chicano Park in Logan Heights is the oldest Mexican-American neighborhood in San Diego.

This area is where you’ll find tons of incredible murals under the San Diego-Coronado Bridge.

In fact, Chicano Park features the largest concentration of Chicano murals in the world.

In Chicano Park, there are seven acres worth of murals and sculpture gardens, as well as galleries and brewpubs now (because of gentrification).

It’s also important to note that the local community valiantly fought for Chicano Park after the city of San Diego took away much of the surrounding land and added freeways from the 1940s through the 70s.

It’s a special place to visit in San Diego to honor the Chicano community and appreciate the history found at the park and the greater Logan Heights neighborhood. 

• The Embarcadero & Seaport Village

One of the aspects I love about San Diego is that you’re never too far from the water, no matter which neighborhood you’re in.

The Embarcadero is probably one of the most well-known seaside areas in San Diego.

It’s home to many popular waterfront attractions, including one of the best museums in San Diego–the USS Midway Museum. 

Located right next to downtown San Diego, the Embarcadero is the cruise ship hub of the city, so you can expect it to be touristy.

However, it’s also a beautiful spot to walk around during the day or at night for a good dose of San Diego vibes. 

The Embarcadero is also where you’ll find Seaport Village , full of souvenir shops and good views.

And it’s where you’ll find The Headquarters, an old police command post now full of trendy restaurants.

USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway is in the top five coolest museums I’ve visited, and the history behind the vessel and its purpose are just as intriguing.

There are over 60 exhibits on the huge ship and 29 restored aircraft, including everything from fighter jets to rescue helicopters. 

The informative free movie near the entrance goes through the history of the Battle of Midway, which is where the ship got its name.

You can tour multiple levels of the carrier, view old living quarters and pilots’ ready rooms, and even step inside World War II fighter jets. 

And similar to the Air & Space Museum at Balboa Park, the USS Midway Museum also has flight simulators for an additional cost.

Before or after seeing the museum, I’d recommend grabbing lunch at the Fish Market Restaurant for mouthwatering fish tacos. 

Before you leave the area, don’t miss walking underneath the Unconditional Surrender statue near the museum for that perfect photo op.

You can grab tickets for the USS Midway Museum ahead of time here .

Maritime Museum of San Diego

San Diego’s Maritime Museum has one of the world’s most extensive collections of restored historic ships. 

Located in the San Diego Bay next to Waterfront Park, the proudest piece in the Maritime Museum collection is an 1863 ship called the Star of India. 

Visitors to this floating maritime museum can walk the Star of India’s decks along with many other historic vessels.

General admission will get you on to most of the museum’s ships.

Coronado Island

That island you always see across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Island has been a popular staycation destination and tourist attraction in San Diego for decades. 

What used to be an old ferry landing has become a sunny playground for immaculate beaches, palm-lined walks, and open-air San Diego fun.

Plus, you get a great view of the San Diego skyline from the island. 

On the island , you can go shopping in one of the local specialty shops or art galleries, devour fresh seafood from one of the many restaurants, lay on the beach, or rent a kayak to explore the bay from the water.

You can also take a guided walking food tour around the island or maybe even go on a Coronado Cruise Bike Tour .

There’s plenty to keep you busy around the island, whether you’re traveling with a family, as a couple, or by yourself.

Coronado Island is also where one of the most famous San Diego hotels is– Hotel del Coronado –if you’re looking to stay on the island (or simply want to tour the property). 

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is similar to the San Diego Zoo but on a smaller scale and is located on the opposite side of the county, up in Escondido.

I visited the San Diego Zoo Safari Park on my last San Diego trip because my Go Card included it, but if you had to choose between the two, I would spend my time at the original San Diego Zoo.

I find the zoo more enticing because it offers a greater variety of animals to see and interact with.

With that said, the Safari Park offers a completely different animal experience with its many safaris. 

I also like the fact that the enclosures are much larger for a more comfortable living arrangement and daily roaming for the animals.

At the Safari Park, I experienced the Africa Tram, which is included in the admission price. The downsides to this tour are the wait times and the fact that the animals are so far away.

All other safari options are an additional cost to the admission price, but if you’re willing to splurge, they would be well worth it compared to the Africa Tram. 

I saw other visitors feeding giraffes on their Caravan Safari, but if you want that experience, it will cost you upwards of $100.

The Zoo and the Safari Park are worth seeing if you have time for both San Diego attractions.

You can grab your Zoo and Safari Park combo ticket ahead of time here .

Read my complete guide to the San Diego Zoo vs Safari Park .

Note: You’ll notice that SeaWorld is missing from this list. In response to controversy following the 2013 documentary, Blackfish , SeaWorld has taken steps to improve its conditions and eliminate the orca breeding program. Still, I’ve decided not to include them on this bucket list due to their history of animal abuse and the questionable ethics of having animals perform for crowds.

San Diego Botanic Garden

San Diego’s Botanical Gardens in Encinitas sprawl over 37 acres and contain over 5,300 different types of plants.

Explore San Diego and the surrounding area by getting to know its native plants.

Or take an exotic tour of the world by viewing the Botanic Garden’s endangered plant species.

The SDBG also has a robust calendar of events, including plant-related shows, art exhibitions, parties, and summer evening concerts.  

• Birch Aquarium

San Diego’s Birch Aquarium is an extension of the Scripp’s Institution of Oceanography at UCSD.

Birch Aquarium showcases over sixty marine habitats filled with colorful undersea life. 

Visit sharks and penguins or a two-story giant kelp forest.

Or, check out the living tide pool plaza, where you can stick your hands into pools containing starfish, anemones, hermit crabs, and more.

Drive Up the Coast Highway

One of the best day trips from San Diego is a simple drive because the area is blessed with miles and miles of stunning coastline. 

And my favorite way to see the beauty of North County beaches is along the Coast Highway, also known as Hwy 101.

Starting around Torrey Pines Reserve, the Coast Highway goes through some of San Diego’s lovely scenery and suburbs, including Del Mar, Solana Beach, Leucadia, Carlsbad, and Oceanside .

One of my favorite parts of the highway is a little further outside the city, just past San Clemente.

Along the way, stop at the local staple, Pizza Port, for its delicious pizza and beer.

There’s a reason it’s so popular with locals, the fare is mouthwatering, and the vibe is very much surfer.

When you get to Encinitas, Pannikin Coffee & Tea is one of my favorite coffee shops in San Diego.

It’s located in a cute cottage, complete with a white picket fence and outside seating.

In general, I recommend taking your time and stopping as much as possible as you go up the coast.

Each little city has a unique personality and plenty of sights, beaches, and foodie spots. 

If you don’t have a car or don’t want to worry about driving, another good option for seeing this beautiful part of the coast is taking the Amtrak Coaster train.

I’ve taken it multiple times to visit my sister in Los Angeles and it’s still the most beautiful train ride I’ve been on.

Carlsbad Flower Fields 

Another stopover just off the highway is the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, where you can frolic in Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers. 

If you drive north from downtown San Diego, passing through Del Mar and Encinitas, you’ll shortly wind up in Carlsbad. 

There, you’ll find Carlsbad Ranch and its nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flower fields.

From March to May each year, these flowers bloom in vibrant shades of red, yellow, orange, and pink. During this time, you can visit these very Instagramable fields for a small entry fee. 

The front entrance area also has several smaller gardens, restrooms, and a pizza trolley.

Looking for more flowers in California? Read my guides to the best California flower fields , lavender farms , sunflower fields , and where to see California poppies in bloom.

Legoland 

Legoland is another compelling reason to make the trip up to Carlsbad. 

This California resort includes a theme park, aquarium, water park, and hotels based on the popular toy brand.

Throughout all of this fun are numerous models made with LEGO bricks. 

You can visit Legoland as a San Diego day trip or make a weekend getaway out of it by purchasing a vacation pass. 

Make sure to plan ahead, as you’ll need reservations to get into Legoland.

If you can swing it, I’d also try to go as early in the day as possible and avoid school breaks. The last time I visited Legoland, it was packed and the lines were pretty long.

You can purchase your admission tickets ahead of time here . 

Del Mar    

Del Mar is a beautiful beach town located pretty far north of downtown San Diego but still within the county of San Diego.

 I’ve enjoyed many sunny summer afternoons and date nights in Del Mar throughout the years.

This charming seaside community offers the best of the Southern California coast with beautiful beaches and oceanside restaurants.

The town’s other attractions include the Del Mar Racetrack and the San Diego Fairgrounds–the site of the annual County Fair, which draws over a million visitors yearly. 

Taco Tuesday in Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is a bustling neighborhood just above Mission Bay, packed with surf shops, bars, and restaurants.

Taco Tuesdays in Pacific Beach are one of the best things to do at night in San Diego if you want to experience the local college nightlife.

You can expect cheap shots of tequila, Mexican food, sombreros here and there, and strong margaritas that are bigger than your head.

During the winter months, it quiets down a bit, especially when the universities are out.

But if you happen to stumble upon a Taco Tuesday in the fall or spring, get ready to party.

It’s a lot of fun for college students, especially those newly 21-year-olds because everything is cheap and there’s a lot of craziness, dancing, and shots.

The nice thing about going out in Pacific Beach is that it’s easy to do a bar crawl.

Most of the bars line Garnet Street side by side or are close by off the side streets.

Pacific Beach Alehouse and Tavern at the Beach are a bit more laidback than the usual bars-turned-clubs for the slightly older crowd. 

If you’re looking for more of a Mexican vibe, head to Cabo Cantina, which is overflowing on Taco Tuesdays.

Moonshine Beach is probably the best option if you’re looking for a good place to dance.

Or, if you want to avoid the Coronas and have some craft beer instead, Bub’s at the Beach is one of my favorites in Pacific Beach.

One thing to note is if you’re after a nice dinner of cheap tacos before going out on the town, I would suggest getting to PB as early as possible since places fill up quickly during the busy months.

My recommendations for tacos in the neighborhood include Cabo Cantina, World Famous, and the taqueria stands that always seem to pop up on the streets outside the bars on Tuesdays.

North Park is considered the hipster neighborhood of San Diego, California. It has a fun and quirky side that is easy to fall in love with.

I’m convinced I will move here if I ever move back to San Diego.

I saw one of my favorite concerts ever in North Park (The Tallest Man on Earth) at the beautiful old Birch North Park Theatre.

And the bars offer a little bit of everything for whatever style of nightlife you’re going for.

It’s an excellent neighborhood to check out if you’re spending the weekend in San Diego and want to explore some of the best San Diego nightlife.

One of my favorite bars in North Park is Seven Grand, a whiskey bar that hosts live music and has black and white movies playing on a loop.

The bartenders look like they just stepped out of the 1920s.

Seven Grand has an entire wall of whiskey , taking up 15 pages on their drink menu, with the top shelf reached by a rolling ladder.

Another bar to check out in the area is The Office.

Half bar, half club (as are many establishments in this city), The Office gives off the feel of a smoky cocktail lounge that’s lively with a bit of an older crowd. Their decent beer list is a bonus.

North Park is one of those places to go out in San Diego that is trendy yet feel-good.

The neighborhood offers a fun night out without the constant over-intoxication in Pacific Beach. 

And if you’re not as interested in the nightlife, there are plenty of things to do in North Park that don’t involve drinking.

This includes checking out the many trendy cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops during the day. 

Microbrewery Tour

It’s no secret that San Diego, California has one of the best microbrewery scenes in the US.

You can find a brewery in just about any suburb, so no matter where you are, you can get a taste of the San Diego beer scene.

I usually do a self-guided brewery tour with a combination of walking and Uber while I’m in town.

But if you’re after a more organized tour, this San Diego Brewery Tour is an excellent place to start.

Visiting breweries is one of the best local things to do around San Diego, especially if you’re a fan of good beer.

And with over 100 breweries in greater San Diego County, you’re spoiled for choice.

My favorite breweries include Ballast Point (give me a Sculpin IPA any day), Green Flash, and Stone for their classy brewery and rock garden.

Other recommendations include Coronado, Lost Abbey, Latitude 33, Modern Times, Mother Earth, Half Door Brewing, and Mission Brewery.

Looking for more brewery recommendations? Read my guide to the best California breweries (there are quite a few San Diego breweries mentioned). 

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Old Town San Diego , also known as the birthplace of California, is where you’ll find a bustling Hispanic community. 

It’s also where the indigenous Kumeyaay people lived 9,000 years ago before the Spaniards arrived. 

There are many fun things to do in Old Town San Diego. You’ll find local artisan shops, many Mexican restaurants, and some cool historic buildings.

If you’re a history buff, Old Town is a good historic neighborhood to explore, especially compared to the rest of the city, which leans more into its modernness. 

You can find the complete list of historic sites in Old Town San Diego here . 

Gaslamp Quarter

Whether you’re after some of the best shopping in San Diego, bar hopping, classy restaurants, architecture, or simply people-watching, the Gaslamp Quarter is the city’s heart. 

If you’re wondering what to do in downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is where you should start.

This is especially the case if you enjoyed the historical side of Old Town and you’re hungry for more.

The Gaslamp Quarter’s beginnings go back to 1850 when William Heath Davis began developing land in the hopes of creating a town on the waterfront.

You can still visit his house in the Gaslamp Quarter as it’s now a museum.

I would recommend exploring the Gaslamp Quarter during the day and at night to see the difference, especially on Friday and Saturday nights when it comes alive with nightlife (don’t miss The Shout House!). 

There are plenty of things to do in the Gaslamp Quarter to keep you busy for the day. 

Some fun activities include checking out the historical architecture around the neighborhood, bar hopping, eating at some of the trendiest restaurants in San Diego, and perusing art galleries. Take your pick!

Little Italy

Little Italy is the historic Italian neighborhood in downtown San Diego that was originally the center of the city’s tuna fishing industry. 

These days, Little Italy is a lively and walkable neighborhood packed with trendy bars and restaurants. 

If you have a sweet tooth, check out Extraordinary Desserts, a dessert-only cafe serving gourmet sweets.

Otherwise, some of the best things to do in Little Italy are its many outdoor events.

There’s the ‘Mercato’ Street Market , which takes place every Wednesday and Saturday.

And there’s the Little Italy Summer Film Festival , which screens Italian-language films every Saturday in July and August. 

Read our complete guide to Little Italy, San Diego .

Ocean Beach Farmers Market

A very popular farmers market in San Diego, California, the Ocean Beach Farmers Market is not as bustling as the Little Italy Street Market but it is more local.

This market happens every Wednesday from 4-8 pm and features the same vibe as the one in Little Italy but on a smaller scale.

It’s also a bit more hippie in nature than the one in Little Italy, which, if you know anything about OB, goes well with the overall atmosphere of the neighborhood. 

Have your pick of fresh produce and enjoy the local art and live music.

Once you finish perusing the market, you can walk to Ocean Beach to enjoy a sunset near the pier. 

San Diego Hiking Trails

Although completely opposite to the climate I grew up with in Northern California with its lush redwood forests , desert-like Southern California is where I really started to get into hiking for the first time. 

Hikes in San Diego are a whole different style: dusty and hot with wide expanses of multicolored earth tones for miles and miles.

That said, I grew to love the many hikes I did around the county while I was living there.

Here’s a list of some of my favorite hiking trails within San Diego County:

• Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma (Bayside Trail) – 2.8 miles, 400 ft elevation gain.
• Mount Woodson (aka Potato Chip Rock) – 6.4 miles, 2,000 ft elevation gain.
• Torrey Pines State Reserve hikes – Varies, but most trails at the park are under two miles. 
• Cowles Mountain at Mission Trails Regional Park – 3 miles, 950 ft elevation gain.
• Three Sisters Falls – 4 miles, 1,000 ft elevation gain. The trail is only accessible from November to June. Bring proper hiking boots and gloves for climbing the ropes.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve 

Speaking of hikes and stunning outdoor places in San Diego, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve deserves its own section–it’s that beautiful. 

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a state park just north of the city, nestled below Del Mar. The park’s 2,000 acres of coastal land offer numerous cliffside trails for hiking.

Of San Diego’s many parks and hiking areas, Torrey Pines is one of the prettiest and it’s super close to La Jolla and the UCSD campus. 

Once you’ve had your fill of hiking–or lounging on the beach if that’s more your style–Torrey Pines State Beach is a pristine place to stroll, swim, sunbathe, or watch the sunset. 

Read my detailed guide to hiking Torrey Pines . 

Mount Soledad Lookout

One of my favorite free things to do in San Diego, California is to watch the sunrise from the Mount Soledad Lookout.

We used to go up there every year to welcome new members into our sorority with the sunrise.

I’ve also watched many sunrises and sunsets up there with friends, talking about life over delicious California burritos.

Considered by some to be the best San Diego viewpoint, Mount Soledad looks out over La Jolla and honors American veterans and fallen soldiers.

The road to get there can be hard to find in the winding hills of La Jolla, but once you see the view, it’s more than worth it. 

It’s also beautiful to go up there at night to witness the twinkling lights of La Jolla and hear the ocean below. 

Point Loma Peninsula

San Diego has so many good views that it’s sometimes hard to keep track or prioritize which ones to see first.

One of the best views in San Diego that you shouldn’t miss is from Point Loma Peninsula and the Cabrillo National Monument .  

Start at the southern tip of the peninsula to visit the Cabrillo National Monument, where Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo landed at San Diego Bay in 1542.

At the monument, you’ll find the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, one of the first of its kind on the West Coast.

Today, the Point Loma Lighthouse is a museum that lets you peek back into history.

As you spend the day exploring the many things to do around the peninsula, you’ll find trails and tide pools, and learn more about California history.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Before you leave the Point Loma Peninsula, head to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park to watch the sun go down with the locals. 

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a gorgeous stretch of cliffs that overlook the Pacific Ocean. 

Natural erosion has shaped these golden sandstone cliffs into dramatic formations, so be sure to watch your step as they can also be unstable in places. 

As its name suggests, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a beautiful place to watch the sunset over the ocean, but it’s also a worthwhile place to take a walk any time of day. 

Stretching for three miles along the coast between the neighborhoods of Ocean Beach and Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a city park, making it one of the best things to do in San Diego for free.

Cuyamaca Peak

As the second-highest peak in San Diego at 6,512 feet, Cuyamaca Peak features fantastic views that stretch for 100 miles on a clear day, all the way to Coronado Island and Mexico.

This area is a popular local place to visit and worth the time if you’re looking for outdoorsy things to do near San Diego.

The trail to the viewpoint climbs over 1,000 feet, so be prepared for a decent amount of uphill work, but it’s okay for beginner hikers in relatively good shape.

To reach the peak, go to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park and take the Stonewall Peak Hike. 

The Stonewall Peak trail is 5.4 miles, takes around 2.5 hours to complete, and is one of the more accessible trails to get up to the top.

Also, don’t forget to check the weather before you tackle the hike. 

The peak gets 3x more rain than any other place in San Diego and can either be very hot in the summer or very cold in the winter. Pack appropriately. 

San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge

The San Diego Bay State Wildlife Refuge is a salt marsh that provides urban refuge for local wildlife. 

Numerous trails make the San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge a peaceful spot to hike and learn about the species that live there. Just be sure to leave no trace if you go!

Seasonal tours are available if you want a more guided educational experience.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala

Founded in 1769 by Spanish friar Junípero Serra, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala was the first Franciscan mission in California and still operates as a working Catholic church today. 

The Mission is a beautiful historic building to explore, regardless if you’re religious or not. 

Guided tours happen Monday through Friday at 9 am, 11 am, and 1 pm, and you can request a group tour ahead of time here . 

San Diego Beaches 

One of the best free things to do in San Diego, California is to spend the day at the beach!

There are over 50 beaches in San Diego County and all of them offer a different experience depending on the neighborhood in which they’re located.

I spent a lot of time exploring the North County beaches in San Diego when I was going to school, specifically in the La Jolla area, which is known for its many manicured beaches. 

A few favorites near campus include La Jolla Shores, Black’s Beach, and Torrey Pines State Beach. 

Other fantastic beaches to check out around San Diego County include: 

• Windansea Beach
• Ocean Beach
• La Jolla Cove + Children’s Pool Beach
• Pacific Beach
• Coronado Beach
• Mission Beach
• Solano Beach
• Del Mar Dog Beach

Ocean Beach is a great place to watch the sunset from the pier and meet all of the old hippies and stoners walking around. It’s also a popular place for surfers and skaters alike.

Coronado Beach is stunning and offers excellent views of the San Diego skyline. 

Mission Beach has the Belmont Amusement Park touching the sand and a scenic boardwalk to walk along. And Del Mar’s Dog Beach is an ideal place to take the pooch.

If you’re a fan of sea lions, head to La Jolla Cove, where sea lions regularly lounge along the shore.

La Jolla Shores is another scenic and pristine beach and a fun place to take the family.

Above Black’s Beach, before you walk the steep path down, you’ll find stunning coastal views and paragliders.

Once on the beach, you’ll find a secluded stretch of sand (although you should note that part of it is a nudist beach as well). 

The options are limitless, and it would be a shame to not visit one of these best beaches in San Diego while you’re in town.

Plus, there are plenty of water activities at most beaches if you don’t just want to sunbathe, such as paddle boarding, kayaking , surfing, and snorkeling.

Swim with Leopard Sharks in La Jolla

Wondering what to do in La Jolla that’s a bit more adventurous? 

Every year, thousands of leopard sharks come through La Jolla to mate and lay eggs, sometimes staying for up to six months. 

If you want to see this magical experience up close, you can snorkel alongside the sharks when they’re in town, usually from early June to the end of September/October. 

You’ll typically find the highest concentration of them at the end of August and through September. 

And in case you’re worried, leopard sharks have a ferocious name but are completely harmless. 

You can rent a snorkel from one of the many shops in La Jolla and go with a friend or go on a guided tour with a local company .

You’ll find the sharks along most of the La Jolla coastline, but usually, La Jolla Cove is the best for leopard shark spotting. 

This is what you can expect from the experience: 

Tide Pools 

The San Diego coastline has countless tide pools, which isn’t surprising since the warm waters of San Diego make excellent tide pooling conditions. 

You can get an up-close-and-personal look at lush sea life in many places in the San Diego region.

The best time for tide pooling in San Diego is during fall and winter at low tide.

One of the top places to go tide pooling is Coronado Beach, directly in front of the Hotel del Coronado. At low tide, you’ll find a ton of anemones, starfish, barnacles, and more.

La Jolla also offers abundant tide pool opportunities. 

After visiting the sea lions at La Jolla Cove, head down to Shell Beach in Ellen Browning Scripps Park, then to the La Jolla Tide Pools. They’re all within a short walk from each other.

You’ll also find Point Loma tide pools at the southern tip of its coastline.

This area is where you’ll find the national monument and Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which could round out your day near the water. 

Tide pools are fascinating at any age, but it’s an especially fun (and educational!) activity if you’re wondering what to do in San Diego with kids.

San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park

Did you know that San Diego has its own underwater park?

It just shows you how dedicated the city is to local marine life and how interconnected its ties are to the ocean. 

If you’re a water person at all, the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park is a sight to see and one of the best water activities in San Diego.

The park covers 6,000 acres of ocean and tidelands and is home to four distinct marine habitats.

Either rent a snorkel and explore it yourself or go on a group tour with a local company . You can go kayaking on top of the waterpark and around La Jolla Cove as well.

The waterpark is also a popular spot for scuba diving in San Diego if you’re certified. 

Mission Beach Boardwalk

The Mission Beach Boardwalk is another fun and free thing to do in San Diego, California, and easily one of the best things to do in Mission Beach.

The boardwalk brings all of San Diego’s best parts together in one place–sunshine, a beautiful beach, active locals, and those endless summer vibes.

I actually only recently discovered the Mission Beach Boardwalk on my last trip to San Diego, but I quickly fell in love with the local atmosphere.

You can walk or run along the boardwalk to get a full view of Mission Beach or rent cruiser bikes to feel like a true Californian.

Walk or ride down to Belmont Park and hop on the Giant Dipper roller coaster once you get your exercise in for the day. 

Paragliding at the Gliderport in La Jolla

Paragliding at the Gliderport is one of the most popular things to do in La Jolla for the more adventurous traveler. 

When I was in college, my friends and I would always comment on how we’d one day go paragliding off those cliffs next to campus.

Sadly, it didn’t happen back then (one day!).

However, it’s still an activity in San Diego that I would wholeheartedly recommend and one I hope to do myself someday.

Torrey Pines Gliderport is located near the UC San Diego campus and allows you to glide out over the cliffs and beautiful Black’s Beach below.

It costs $175 to paraglide for 20-25 minutes and you’ll have to call the day of to book because it all depends on wind conditions.

59-Mile San Diego Scenic Drive

One of the more under-the-radar free activities in San Diego is driving the San Diego Scenic Drive .

As I’ve mentioned, San Diego is known for its breathtaking views.

This scenic drive is basically the highlight reel of some of the most beautiful parts of the San Diego Coast.

You shouldn’t miss it if you’re serious about sightseeing around San Diego. 

It’s one of the best things to see in San Diego if you truly want to grasp just out beautiful the city can be. 

You should give yourself at least three hours to do the full drive, but probably more if you’re like me and like to jump out to take a lot of pictures along the way. 

These are some of the sights to include along the drive: 

• Harbor Island
• Point Loma & Cabrillo National Monument
• Mission Bay & Mission Beach
• Mount Soledad
• La Jolla Cove
• Presidio Park
• Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo

If this sounds like too much to fit into one day, you can break it up into different days to see some of the most beautiful spots in San Diego. 

To find the drive, look for the blue and yellow signs with a white seagull that are markers along the drive every quarter mile.

Silver Strand Bikeway

If you’re looking for free things to do in San Diego and you’re into biking but don’t want to race around the track at the Velodrome, the Silver Strand Bikeway is an ideal alternative. 

It’s a gorgeous ride through 12 miles of sunshine along the coast.

It’s also perfectly accessible for beginner and casual cyclists, unlike the Velodrome. 

The bikeway takes you from Coronado Island to the southern tip of the San Diego Bay, providing great views and an ocean breeze along the way. 

The trail is relatively flat and well maintained, so it’s perfect for riders of all skill levels.

Some people even ride the path on a cruiser bike, so no crazy gears are necessary.

Midway through your ride, make sure to take a dip at Silver Strand Beach to cool off and break up the bike ride on a hot day.

Rooftop Cinema Club

I absolutely love rooftop cinemas!

While living in Europe, I went to quite a few, so I was excited to learn that San Diego started doing them through the Rooftop Cinema Club. 

They play everything from cult classics to recent movies, and you’ll get your personal set of headphones, city views, cozy blankets, and a selection of food and drinks to enjoy while watching the film. 

The Rooftop Cinema Club actually has a few locations around the US now (and one in London), including LA, Houston, and New York, and their popularity only continues to grow.

I can’t think of many better things to do in San Diego than go to a rooftop cinema because the weather is gorgeous year-round.

Plus, it’s a fun romantic thing to do in the city if you’re looking for a good date night idea. 

You can find out what’s currently playing here . 

San Diego Padres Game at Petco Park

I always recommend seeing at least one baseball game when you visit San Diego (if it’s the right season) because the downtown Petco Park stadium has such a unique atmosphere.

Baseball might not be the most exciting game for a lot of people, especially if you didn’t grow up watching or playing the sport.

However, it’s a completely different experience when it’s live and you’re at Petco Park. 

The Padres don’t have quite the same die-hard fan base that the LA Dodgers or San Francisco Giants have.

That said, Petco Park is a beautiful modern stadium to watch a game from, right near the ocean and downtown.

I’ve been to a few baseball games at Petco Park and I always have a blast, even if the Padres don’t win a ton.

If you’re looking for San Diego things to do and you happen to be there during baseball season (March/early April to late September/early October), don’t miss out on a game at Petco Park.

Humphreys Concerts by the Bay

Located on Shelter Island on the Point Loma Peninsula, Humphreys Concerts by the Bay is a beloved local outdoor music venue hosting popular music and comedy acts since 1982. 

Concerts run from May through October and feature anything from rock to jazz, folk, blues, international music, and even comedy shows.

Seeing a show at this beautiful outdoor venue is one of the most popular things to do in San Diego for couples and a great date night idea in the city. 

You can find a complete list of their upcoming shows here . 

South Bay Drive-In Theatre

If you’re looking for another good date night idea in San Diego, look no further than the drive-in.

I went on a date here a while back to see the zombie rom-com, Warm Bodies , and it was a unique date night idea that was very fun.

Drive-ins are not common around the US anymore; most have gone out of business (although they’ve started making a comeback again since 2020 ). 

Because of this, I’m always excited when I find a drive-in that’s not only still in business but also a popular local thing to do.

Head to the South Bay Drive-In any day of the week for a double feature that you can watch from the comfort of your car.

They usually play newer movies and it’s also one of the best cheap things to do in the city.

Ticket prices are only $9 for adults and kids 5-9 years old are only $1. Talk about a deal!  

La Jolla Playhouse

Located on the UCSD campus and showcasing talented acts throughout the year, the La Jolla Playhouse is a non-profit theater worth seeing a show at if you’re in the area.

Some of the more unique events they offer at the La Jolla Playhouse are their audience engagement events.

These include Talkback Tuesdays and Discovery Sunday, where you can interact with the actors on stage after the performance.

The La Jolla Playhouse is a staple in the San Diego theater scene and a fun local venue to experience while you’re in town. 

Grab Brunch and Walk Around Downtown La Jolla

La Jolla is a stylish neighborhood on the northern end of San Diego where you’ll find miles of coastal cliffs and stunning beaches. 

It’s also where the UCSD campus is located, as well as fashionable boutiques and plenty of brunch spots.

Numerous delicious restaurants offer brunch along Prospect Street adjacent to Shell Beach and Children’s Pool Beach.

Two of my favorites include Brockton Villa Restaurant and The Cottage. 

The Cottage was always a huge hit with students when their parents were visiting.

I was always partial to Brockton Villa though for their eggs benedict and ocean views. I spent many Sundays going to brunch there.

After eating, you can stroll around the surrounding area, peruse the shops, and take in some artwork at Legends Gallery. 

Then, head over to one of the beautiful La Jolla beaches, such as La Jolla Cove or La Jolla Shores.

Fashion Valley 

Many people like to shop while on vacation. If that sounds like you, be sure to pay a visit to Fashion Valley , San Diego’s largest shopping mall.

Whenever I needed a new outfit for an upcoming party or simply wanted to go shopping with friends, I’d always head over to Fashion Valley because of its plethora of options.

It’s where you’ll find all the luxury brands such as Cartier, Gucci, and Prada. But you’ll also find Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters if that’s more your style. 

In other words, you’ll find brands at every price point, plus a similarly comprehensive selection of restaurants.

San Diego Harbor Cruise 

It’s hard to visit San Diego and not partake in at least one harbor or whale watching tour because these cruises highlight the best part of the city–its proximity to the water. 

If you’re visiting San Diego from May to early December, I’d recommend going on one of the popular harbor cruises to take in the San Diego skyline from the water. 

You can grab tickets here for a popular inexpensive San Diego harbor cruise that lasts an hour or two.

Whale Watching Cruise

If you’re looking for things to do in San Diego during winter, I’d recommend adding a whale-watching cruise to your San Diego itinerary.

This was one of the first activities I ever did in San Diego when I was a freshman in college, and that experience was the first time I was able to see whales up close. It was very cool.

Grey whales migrate near the city’s shores from mid-December through April. 

If you want to try to see the cute babies, early spring is when you’re more likely to see female whales with their calves. 

You can grab tickets to an environmentally-friendly whale watching cruise here .

This four-and-a-half-hour cruise leaves from Shelter Island and the San Diego Bay, then heads out onto the Pacific Ocean.

With the price of your ticket, you’ll also get sodas and snacks, plus a whale-watching guarantee: if you don’t spot any whales during the trip, you can try again for free.

They offer four daily trips, leaving throughout the morning and early afternoon.

San Diego Trolley Tour

If you only have one day in San Diego, California, a San Diego Trolley Tour is an excellent way to see a lot quickly.

The Trolley Tour Leaves from Old Town and takes you over the Coronado Bridge on a twenty-five-mile loop. 

You can hop off any time at one of the 100 San Diego attractions along the way, then hop back on as the next trolley passes your stop.

Buying a one-day or two-day pass gets you free entry to 10 museums across San Diego, California, which is a fantastic value.

If you want to pack in a lot of sights, the Trolley Tour is cost-effective and one of the best San Diego tours to experience if you’re new to the city. 

San Diego Food Tour

Hop on a San Diego food tour to explore the local cuisine.

San Diego’s cuisine is heavily influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cooking dating back to the formation of the city.

Food tours are always a fun thing to do in San Diego because there’s such a delicious foodie scene in the city.

I have two favorite tours in particular that are chock-full of food and history.

The first food tour takes place in the Gaslamp District, where your tour guide will take you to five different eateries for a stomach jamming day of large portions and plentiful flavors.

Or you can choose a tour that dives fully into the area’s tequila and Mexican food and stops by multiple restaurants along the way.

The samples and drinks add up faster than you think, so watch out!

Mormon Battalion Historic Site

While you’re in Old Town, visit the Mormon Battalion Historic Site .

It commemorates a group of 500 Latter-day Saints who joined the U.S. Army in 1846, forming the Mormon Battalion.

The battalion marched 2,000 miles across the southwest, improving trails on their way to California.

Soldiers who found gold also played an important role in the California Gold Rush, which drew other settlers to the region.

While at the historical site, you can also see demonstrations on brickmaking and gold panning.

The Battalion Historic Site is just off the freeway, down the street from the Whaley House Museum.

Ghost Tour Around the City

Alright, it’s time to get a little spooky.

San Diego is known as one of the most haunted cities on the West Coast. So, naturally–or supernaturally (sorry, couldn’t resist)–you have to go on a ghost tour while you’re there.

Haunted tours are one of the more unusual things to do in San Diego but in the best way. My favorite tour starts at Old Town Corral Plaza, across the street from a cemetery.

From there, you’ll travel by foot and by private bus to five haunted locations: Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House, the Horton Grand Hotel, the Villa Montezuma Museum, the Whaley House Museum, and El Campo Santo Cemetery.

These sites were chosen with the help of local ghost hunters who say that right now the Gaslamp Museum is the most active location in town.

All of the museum admissions are included in the tour price.

Bring your camera because people on this tour frequently feel and see paranormal activity.

Who knows, maybe you’ll catch a floating orb or feel a hand on your back. I’m getting the chills just thinking about it! 

The Haunted Whaley House Museum

If you’re looking for spooks but aren’t interested in a full tour, sign up for a Whaley House Museum Paranormal Investigation .

Known as America’s Most Haunted House, this is a hot spot for ghost hunters.

The investigation takes place after all of the day-time visitors return home to their comfy beds. You’ll work alongside a professional paranormal guide, using real ghost hunting equipment.

This is not a tour for the squeamish.

If you want to watch videos featuring the Whaley House and learn more before going, I recommend checking out Ghost Adventures, Ghost Files, and Buzzfeed.

Otherwise, if you want an in-depth tour of the Whaley House Museum, but the after hours tour seems a little too scary, there are also self-guided day-time and evening tours.

Barona Cultural Center & Museum

When you visit San Diego, pause to learn about the Kumeyayy/Diegueno People who have lived on San Diego land since long before settlers arrived.

The Barona Cultural Center and Museum aims to protect cultural practices, language, art, and objects for future generations.

The cultural center is located on the Barona Band of Mission Indians’ Reservation and everyone is welcome to visit the museum and learn.

The Barona Cultural Center and Museum is only open on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

I suggest calling ahead to confirm that they’ll be open when you stop by. You can also ask ahead of time for a tour of the museum.

Saturday Farmers’ Market

In the mood for something fresh? If you’re looking for things to do in San Diego this weekend, walk around the Saturday Farmers’ Market at Old Poway Park.

You can buy fruit, veggies, flowers, and more straight from the farmers who grew them.

These are the highest quality products, certified inspected by the agricultural commission.

Plus, there are mouth watering food vendors cooking up the freshest street food around.

From January through August, I recommend visiting the market on the first and third Saturdays of the month so that you can also peruse the Boardwalk Craft Market.

During the fall, the craft market is open every Saturday.

After shopping, take a ride on the Old Poway Park railroad, which the kids will go nuts for.  

Train Rides at the Old Poway Park

Hop aboard the Poway-Midland Railroad for a loop around Old Poway Park.

With vintage and antique tracks, this railroad is more than a theme park ride–it’s a piece of town history.

In the late 1800s, there were plans to build a railroad in Poway to transport produce across the valley.

This never happened, but in the 1960s, a local Poway resident built his own narrow gage railroad.

After his death, the city acquired the locomotive and a volunteer organization formed in order to run the railway.

Today, there are three different trains, which run on alternating weekends. You’ll get to ride either the Locomotive, the Speeder, or the Cable Car.

The Locomotive runs on the first and third Saturdays of the month and is ADA accessible with a wheelchair lift.

Poway-Midland Railroad is one of the best things to do in San Diego if your traveling with multiple generations.

Everyone loves a good train ride and it’s slow enough for grandma and grandpa, but still exciting for the kids.

Plus, you can rest your feet and have a picnic in the park afterward.

Kobey’s Swap Meet

Looking for cheap things to do in San Diego? Dial up your vintage wardrobe or sneaker collection at Kobey’s Swap Meet .

This 15-acre swap meet is open from Friday to Sunday every week at the San Diego Sports Arena.

Kobey’s draws a whopping 1,000 vendors and 20,000 shoppers.

It goes without saying that you better drink your coffee in route so you don’t miss out.

Plus, every third weekend, Kobey’s hosts Vintage Alley. This is a specially themed weekend that brings in 300 sneaker and vintage clothing vendors.

Parking is free and plentiful. Friday admission is $1 while Saturday and Sunday admission is $2. How’s that for cheap!

Listen to Live Music

Disconnect your earbuds and immerse yourself in the heartbeat of the San Diegan music scene.

One of the best things to do in San Diego for young adults (or really any age) is to visit one of the nightly live music shows.

I should know. Back in my college years, I did an internship at one of the local San Diego magazines as a concert reviewer and music writer, so I would go to shows around the city a lot.

And there are dozens of music venues to choose from.

Sometimes it can feel a little overwhelming with so many options, but I’d start planning my night by checking the line-up on Casbah’s website.

Other spots I’d recommend are Belly Up Tavern, House of Blues, and The Observatory in North Park.

Cedros Avenue Design District

If you like live music and shopping, Cedros Avenue Design District will be your happy place.

Stretching along Solana Beach, Cedros Avenue has over 85 boutiques and artisanal eateries.

It’s also home to San Diego’s famous Belly Up Tavern, mentioned above.

After a day of shopping, you can sip a local beer and listen to the next big stars perform their hearts out.

If I’m not planning around seeing a specific band at Belly Up, I try to visit the design district on a Sunday so that I can also do a little bit of shopping at the Cedros Avenue Farmers’ Market.

There, you’ll find 60+ vendors with organic produce.

Bahia Belle Cruise

Let me start by saying that if you get married on a Bahia Belle Cruise , I expect an invitation.

The Bahia Belle and the William D. Evans sternwheelers are antique cruise ships that can be booked with full catering for parties, corporate gatherings, and weddings.

The Bahia Belle is a 19th-century paddleboat with hand-carved oak furnishings and a stunning polished brass ceiling.

It’s big brother, the William D. Evans, is a 100-foot private boat that features a two-ton paddlewheel and the most elegant stained glass dining room ceiling I’ve ever seen.

Sesame Place Theme Park & Waterfront Park

Bring to life the magic of Sesame Street at the Sesame Place San Diego theme park.

Yes, you heard me right. San Diego is home to Big Bird, Elmo, and the crew.

This is one of the best things to do in San Diego with kids who aren’t quite old enough to appreciate some of the slower-paced historical destinations.

The Sesame Place San Diego park is geared toward little ones with Sesame Street characters walking about and amusement park rides for the whole family.

But if it’s super hot, I suggest packing your swimsuits and taking the kids to the water park within Sesame Place. It has slides, a lazy river, and even a splash castle.

Otherwise, if you’re looking to go somewhere else on a hot day, Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego is completely free and open to the public.

Only a 20-minute drive from Sesame Place, you’ll find interactive fountains for the kids to play in, play structures, green fields, and a garden space.

Something that really stands out among these two locations is their dedication to providing accessible fun for kids of all abilities.

Villa Montezuma Tour

Touring the Villa Montezuma is a special treat for any literature and architecture fans. The Villa Montezuma was built as a “Palace of the Arts” in 1887.

It was originally owned by famed author, Jesse Shepard, also known as Francis Grierson.

While touring the villa, you’ll step back in time.

Each room has been restored with impeccable attention to detail, from the original fleur-de-lis wallpaper to the imported English fireplace tiles.

And don’t get me started on the stained glass windows.

If you’re looking for more of San Diego’s ghosts, head back to the Whaley House. Villa Montezuma is said to be enchanted, rather than haunted.

Comic-Con International: San Diego

To say that the San Diego Comic-Con is a big deal would be an understatement. It began in the 1970s and now attracts over 130,000 attendees.

In recent years, it’s outgrown its home at the San Diego Convention Center and has expanded to include satellite events at neighboring hotels.

San Diego Comic-Con is a hot spot for dressing up as your favorite comic book character and meeting like-minded people who share an appreciation for the genre.

You’ll find comic books and readers from around the world.

Eat All of the Tacos

Maybe you slept in and missed a morning tour. That’s okay!

If you’re looking for fun things to do in San Diego today that don’t require a reservation, discover the best taquerias and taco trucks around San Diego.

I taste-tested a ton of taco spots during my five years living in San Diego and I came away with the understanding that you mostly can’t go wrong with wherever you choose to go.

However, some of my favorites are Puesto , Tacos el Gordo , and the Taco Stand . 

Sunset Sailing Cruise

Sunset sailing cruises on the San Diego Bay are one of the best things to do in San Diego for adults who want a peaceful date night.

From Shelter Island, you’ll cruise the San Diego Bay listening to music and watching San Diego’s skyline during golden hour.

With beer and snacks included, this is a dreamy adventure. And since there’s a maximum of six people, it makes for an intimate sailing experience.

I recommend booking early, as this is a popular tour.

Learn to Surf

What better way to enjoy the sun than from atop a surfboard?

With San Diego Surf School , you can arrange group or private lessons for just the right amount of personalized instruction.

The 90-minute beginner lessons focus on pop-up, wave timing, and efficient paddling.

This should be at the top of your list if you’re traveling with friends and want to do something active.

You’ll learn at one of San Diego’s calmest beaches with well-trained instructors who prioritize safety.

Plus, the wetsuit and surf board are included with your lesson price.

Mini Day Trips from San Diego

If you’re looking for additional fun things to do in San Diego, maybe it’s time for a mini day trip.

Within San Diego County, you can visit Julian , Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, and Lake Hodges. 

If you’re willing to go a little outside the county, Temecula is the prime wine-tasting destination near San Diego. It’s also a great place to go hot air ballooning.

Julian is an adorable quaint town that’s fun to walk around and take a break from the rushing city.

When I did a day trip there, I spent it eating apple pie, drinking apple cider, and walking around the cute downtown area.

If you’re looking for a more outdoorsy day trip, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Lake Hodges have some gorgeous hikes to tackle.

Grab your FREE San Diego Travel Planner! You’ll get instant access to printable checklists to help you plan your trip, plus more restaurant and hotel recommendations and a full San Diego itinerary. 

Looking for more Southern California travel inspiration? Don’t miss our related articles below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

6 thoughts on “77 Best & Fun Things to do in San Diego, California [2024]”

Thanks for the info, to return the favor… In Balboa Park the formerly Museum of Man is now The museum of Us

Thanks for letting me know! I just updated the whole article, including that mention of the Museum of Man (now Us) after my recent trip down to San Diego this past weekend. 🙂

Great article! You definitely covered everything – and more!

Thanks, Dino!

I haven’t been to the California Missions down there yet, good recommendation, Maureen!

WOW, great article as well as images. For part 2 you can add some of California Mission near San Diego and Oceanside too. Thanks!

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The best things to do in San Diego right this minute

This city is much more than beaches. From parks and museums to its famous zoo, check out the best things to do in San Diego

San Diego is much more than Los Angeles ' super chill cousin to the south. This multicultural city has an international border and some of the world's best beaches. There's also incredible culture and world-class museums, amusement parks, a strong military footprint, authentic Mexican food, and more than 150 craft breweries. You'll love the laid-back surfer vibe here.

San Diego's year-round temperate climate is a big draw for visitors since they can usually count on the weather being an optimal 72 degrees and sunny. There are major events like San Diego Comic-Con, San Diego Beer Week, and several marathons and triathlons that draw folks to America's Finest City.

While here, don't miss attractions like Balboa Park, the world-renowned zoo, farmers markets, and water activities like whale watching, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding. San Diego's 70 miles of coastline are made up of charming beach towns with diverse offerings. But one thing is consistent throughout the county: the beautiful landscape. 

Here we've compiled the very best things to do in San Diego right now. If you're here with the family, there are also plenty of things to do with kids . 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️  The best restaurants in San Diego 🏨  The best San Diego hotels 🍹  The best bars in San Diego 🏘️  The best Airbnbs in San Diego

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Fun things to do in San Diego

1.  Balboa Park

• Attractions
• Park Laurel

San Diego is not short of beautiful parks, but Balboa is the undisputed king of them all. You’re going to want to factor in at least half a day for this, as the 1,200-acre park is home to 18 fantastic museums, some international houses, organ pavilion concerts, and the unmissable Old Globe Theatre. You could get lost for hours strolling through gardens and admiring architecture, but if you want to do it properly, book a walking tour of the park. 

2.  San Diego Zoo

Oh yeah, Balboa Park is also home to San Diego Zoo. Did we mention that? Well anyway, add it to your list, because this zoo is a must-see in San Diego. The first zoo to introduce cageless, open-air exhibits, San Diego Zoo pioneered these natural animal habitats, which are really something to behold. It’s one of the only places outside China where you can spot Giant Pandas, and the zoo offers everything from strolls at sunrise to overnight camping. And if you can't get enough, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park  is nearby too. 

3.  Belmont Park

• Mission Beach

The thrilling centerpiece of this vintage amusement park in Mission Beach is called the Giant Dipper—and it's a national, historic landmark in its own right. Why? Because the construction of this incredible wooden roller coaster dates back to 1925, the so-called "Golden Age" of wooden coasters, but it can still be ridden today thanks to a $2 million restoration. For just $8 per person, you can ride its famous dips and turns (at 48 mph!) while you take in beautiful views of neighboring Mission Bay and the Pacific Ocean — if you keep your eyes open, that is.

4.  San Diego Whale Watch

Whale-watching trips from the city are both plentiful and fruitful, with blue whales at the center of attention between June and September and their gray cousins taking over from December through April. San Diego Whale Watch offers year-round excursions for $59 per person. Don't worry—if you don’t see a whale or dolphin during your tour, your next trip is free!

5.  La Jolla

Dubbed the “jewel of Southern California,” La Jolla is a curiously quaint Mediterranean-style village just a few minutes drive from downtown — but feels like you’ve accidentally taken the exit for Greece or Italy. There’s plenty to keep you entertained here, including some of the city’s finest restaurants like Nine-Ten in the Grande Colonial Hotel. Don't miss the nearby Legends Gallery , which boasts a nice collection of artwork by former La Jolla resident Dr. Seuss, or the Instagram-friendly La Jolla Cove , where you’ll almost always find groups of seals and sea lions sunbathing.

6.  Torrey Pines Gliderport

• Sports and fitness
• La Jolla Shores

Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of San Diego’s exceptional Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve by swooping serenely overhead in a paraglider. Torrey Pines Gliderport is home to one of the most successful paragliding schools in North America, and flight experiences start from $175 ($165 if paying with cash). You’ll be strapped to a qualified pilot so there’s nothing to worry about except enjoying the sweeping ocean views of the 2,000-acre reserve, its numerous hiking trails and sandstone cliffs beneath you.

7.  Petco Park

Home to the San Diego Padres MLB team, Petco Park baseball stadium is located smack-dab in the middle of downtown San Diego, and it's a great family-friendly destination to watch America's favorite pastime. Sure, hot dogs and beer are par for the course here, but some of San Diego's top restaurants also have food stalls within the stadium for a high-end culinary experience. And there's no shortage of craft beer options, so it's also a great chance to try different local brews. Depending on the game, tickets can be found for as low as $18, and from certain seats you can even spot the ocean or catch a sunset. 

8.  Gaslamp Quarter

• Greater San Diego

As the alluringly charismatic and historic heart of downtown San Diego, the 16-and-a-half-block Gaslamp Quarter blends Victorian charm with a 21st-century entertainment, shopping and nightlife scene. Impressively, the Gaslamp Quarter celebrated its 150th anniversary in recent years. As the former site of San Diego's red light district in the 19th century, the area has been revitalized over the last 25 years and is now home to more than 100 retail stores.

9.  Del Mar Racetrack

Opened in 1937 by singer Bing Crosby, Del Mar Racetrack was once a playground to the stars who rode the train down from Hollywood for a day of fun on the turf. General admission tickets are just $8 and minimum bets can be made for only $2. So it doesn't cost much to put a little skin in the game by picking your favorite pony to win each race. The summer racing season runs from July through September, and the fall season is typically held through the month of November. 

10.  USS Midway Museum

The monumental USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. Navy history when it was decommissioned in 1992. Now the feted ship—the size of a floating city—is a maritime museum open to the public, berthed along San Diego Bay in downtown. Climb aboard for a fascinating insight into what naval life is really like, courtesy of a self-guided audio tour narrated by some (refreshingly honest) former Midway sailors. Plus, if you've got young ones who love being onboard, you can find activities for little skippers.

11.  Barrio Logan neighborhood

You’re tantalizingly close to the border, but you don’t need to cross it for some seriously authentic Mexican food. Beeline for the Barrio Logan neighborhood, the epicenter of San Diego’s Hispanic community, for lunch or dinner. The city’s freshest handmade tortillas can be sourced at Las Cuatro Milpas , an unassuming eatery with lines often extending around the block. For dessert, stroll to nearby Panchitas Bakery , which holds legendary status among San Diegans for its homemade Mexican pastries and steaming hot chocolate.

12.  Whaley House Museum

The Whaley House in San Diego’s Old Town is one of only two officially designated haunted houses in California (yes, official!). Built in 1857, on the town’s former gallows’ site, the house was once home to the wealthy but troubled Whaley family—and rumor has it that various members of the clan never left. Other ghosts said to haunt the house include a grand larcenist who fought ferociously to keep himself alive at the gallows.

13.  Cabrillo National Monument

• Wooded Area

Sitting proudly amongst the astonishing cliffs of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the historic moment when Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay under the Spanish flag in 1542 . The monument boasts spectacular 360-degree views of San Diego Bay, downtown and the surrounding region. On a clear day, you can even see the hills of Tijuana, Mexico. Once you've taken in the incredible vista, check out the quaint exhibit hall next to the monument, which is dedicated to the Cabrillo's life.

14.  San Diego Museum of Art

The region’s oldest, largest and most-visited art museum, San Diego Museum of Art has a nationally renowned permanent collection that includes Spanish and Italian old masters, as well as 19th-century American paintings and sculptures. They also throw some of the best after-hours parties in the city, including Culture & Cocktails and Bloom Bash. Don't miss the outdoor sculpture garden!

15.  Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market

To get a feel for the real San Diego, do as the locals do: Grab your reusable bag and head for the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market, where you'll discover an array of beautiful, fresh, local produce and straight-outta-the-ocean seafood. There's also live music and made-to-order food. If you can't make this one held Saturdays and Wednesdays, farmers’ markets take place every day of the week, with more than 30 held across the city every weekend. For a complete schedule, visit the San Diego Farm Bureau .

16.  Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá

The first and grandest of the California missions is Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, founded by the Spanish in 1769. The Basilica—nestled down in stunning Mission Valley near the San Diego River—is a beautiful and serene place to visit. History buffs can make reservations for a tour, attend mass in the original chapel, visit the mission’s museum and stroll the oldest known cemetery in California.

17.  Surf Diva

With an impressive 70 miles of coastline, San Diego is a surfer’s dream. Turn up the volume and drive down to watch the action—but don’t attempt any waves yourself unless you’re an experienced surfer. If you’re a novice but want to try the sport, visit Surf Diva in La Jolla , the world’s first all-woman surf school, for a private lesson.

18.  Oscar's Mexican Seafood

Pretty much every local has an opinion on the best fish taco in town, but one definite standout is Oscars, a traditional Mexican seafood joint with three locations around the city. You might have to stand in line but trust us, the taco special (shrimp or smoked fish + your choice of scallops or octopus with cabbage, onion, tomato, cilantro and cheese) is well worth the wait. Just thinking about it has our mouths watering.

More great things to do in San Diego

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Ultimate San Diego Bucket List: 125+ Epic Things to do in San Diego

last Updated: March 24, 2023 california San Diego Southern California

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Visiting America’s Finest City and looking for the best things to add to your San Diego bucket list? I’ve got you covered – lots of iconic touristy spots, local taco and burrito spots, and stunning beachy vista points coming right up! This post is super comprehensive – there’s over 125 things to do in San Diego listed below!

San Diego is known for its endless sun, swaying palm trees, and 70 miles of pristine beaches! There’s sea caves and rugged cliffs to explore, the cutest sea lions known to man, the postcard-perfect resort city of Coronado, and you can even go snorkeling with leopard sharks.

It’s your quintessential California beach city, with tons of natural beauty, eclectic shops, world-class tacos and dining, loads of breweries, and even lots of history and culture. There’s really something for everyone here! I mean, you could easily spend a full day exploring just Balboa Park itself!

So, let’s get to it: I present — the ultimate list of things to do in San Diego (aka an epic San Diego bucket list). Whether you’ve lived here for a while and are looking for new things to do in San Diego, or are just visiting for a few days, keep this list handy and wander around.

→  Read Next: The Perfect 3 Days in San Diego (the ultimate itinerary)

Iconic San Diego Bucket List Items

1. Feast on a massive California burrito , one of San Diego’s most iconic dishes. They’re filled with carne asada, guacamole, pico de gallo, cheese, sour cream, and french fries (!!!) stuffed silly into a flour tortilla. Come hungry, because they’re huge. Lucha Libre, Colima’s, and La Puerta are some of the best spots for them.

2. Watch the most gorgeous sunset at Sunset Cliffs , with its stunning ocean vistas, untouched vegetation, and dramatic sandstone cliffs. Make it extra special by bringing a blanket and some cheese/wine for a romantic picnic! A must on any visit, even if you’ve only got one day in San Diego !

3. Spend an afternoon exploring the best of the best of Balboa Park — there’s the authentic Alcazar Garden (modeled after a garden in Spain), the Spanish Village Art Center (a San Diego bucket list must for color lovers), the (free!) botanical garden and lily pond, Spreckels Organ Pavilion (with free weekly concerts), and over 15 museums!

But whatever you do, don’t miss strolling down the Prado, full of ornate baroque architecture to admire. Up for some adventure? You can also take a San Diego Balboa Park Scavenger Hunt or go on a walking tour of the park to ensure you don’t miss anything.

4. Have drinks in the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy to experience San Diego’s buzzy craft cocktail scene! There’s rooftop bars, hidden speakeasies, and trendy/hip spots. Literally something for everyone. We love Craft & Commerce, Wolfie’s Carousel Bar, and can’t wait to head up to The Nolan next!

5. Learn about the birthplace of California at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park , a historic neighborhood created back in 1769. Check out the handmade pottery and Mexican ceramics, watch the daily mariachi band and Folklorico dancing, and try a (free) piping hot homemade tortilla. Check out t his Tequila, Tacos, and Tombstones Walking tour to get a different feel for the area!

6. Take the ferry over to Coronado Island and spend a day in the quaint coastal village — go wine tasting at Coronado Tasting Room, hang by the beach, ride bikes around the island, and see the San Diego skyline from Centennial Park. Don’t wanna miss anything? Book yourself on a Coronado Island Sightseeing Tour . 

7. Throw your hands up on the historic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster (with speeds up to 48mph with sharp dips and turns) at Belmont Park , a beach-side amusement park with phenomenal views of the ocean. Then take a walk on the boardwalk and hang at the beachfront tiki bar and cabanas!

8. Throw on a light jacket and roast marshmallows and indulge in s’mores at a bonfire on the beach — you’ll need to secure a fire pit early in the day as they’re all first come first serve. Want a gourmet experience? Rent a fire pit at Hotel Del Coronado and enjoy all the yummy treats on the menu (even a charcuterie board!) It’s been on my San Diego bucket list forever!

9. Spend a day among the 4,500 rare and endangered animals at the San Diego Zoo , and don’t miss the aerial skytram, polar bear plunge, and Galápagos tortoises — it’s world famous for a reason and their conservation efforts are really admirable (definitely not your typical zoo).

10. Kayak the La Jolla Sea Caves and through the Ecological Reserve — take a guided tour to see the best caves or explore on your own by launching your own kayak at the The La Jolla Shores Boat Launch located on Avenida de la Playa. You might even see leopard sharks, sea lions, dolphins, and more!

11. Wander around Seaport Village and go shopping for eclectic gifts and souvenirs. Make sure to grab some fudge from Seaport Fudge Factory Inc. before heading out!

12. Be wowed by the leafy (and weedy) sea dragons and the two-story, 70,000 gallon Giant Kelp Forest at the Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography — I don’t recommend giving any money to SeaWorld San Diego; the Scripps Aquarium is a much more ethical choice.

13. Watch the seals and sea lions at La Jolla Children’s Pool and Sea Wall — we found them so cute and ended up watching them for over an hour! You’ll probably smell and hear them before you see them! Visiting in winter? You may even see some baby seal pups!

14. Cheer on the Padres at a baseball game at Petco Park — a San Diego bucket list must for sports lovers! There’s even breathtaking views of San Diego and delicious tri-tip nachos from Seaside Market (so yum) so everyone will enjoy the game. You can even take a stadium tour of Petco Park !

15. Get out onto the water on a San Diego Bay Harbor Cruise , where you’ll see important landmarks such as Coronado Bridge, Downtown San Diego, Midway Aircraft Carrier, and many more. Make it extra special on a dinner cruise or sunset sail !

16. Travel in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck to get up-close and personal with a variety of birds and mammals on a wildlife safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (kinda like what I did at Safari West in Santa Rosa! )

Art and Culture

Take a stroll looking for pops of color in the East Village — there’s over a dozen new murals in the East Village . My favorite part? They’re all painted by female muralists as part of the Ladies Who Paint initiative, hoping to bring more visibility to these talented artists. We all need a little more girl power, don’t we?!

Explore the campus of the Salk Institute for Biological Studies and get your photoshoot on — you’ll find some of the best architecture in all of the city here! Expect clean lines, perfect symmetry, and neutral colors. It’s the ultimate combination of science and architecture.

Wander around the Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park, checking out the myriad of artist galleries and strolling in the colorful courtyard. If you love color, you’ve gotta put this on your San Diego bucket list.

Find and admire the elaborate sand castles at Coronado Beach by Bill Pavlacka, The Sandcastle Man. He’s a freelance artist that builds 3D sculptures out of sand and they change frequently so you’ll never know what you’ll find! Look in front of the Hotel Del Coronado as that’s where they predominantly live.

Take a touristy picture with the “Greetings from San Diego” mural in North Park, made by the same company who designed the “Greetings from San Francisco” mural in Umbrella Alley in SF !  It’s got all the iconic gems of San Diego you’d expect it to have — like the distinctive Victorian roof of the Hotel del Coronado, La Jolla cove, Ocean Beach pier, and even the U.S./Mexico border.

See a show at the Old Globe Theatre in beautiful Balboa Park — there’s tons to pick from, including Shakespeare and classic musicals to new plays. It was modeled after Shakespeare’s Old Globe in the UK, so if you’re missing London , add this to your San Diego bucket list.

Go mural hopping in the neighborhoods of North Park and South Park — some of my favorite photo spots in all of San Diego are here! Pigment, Artelexia, Fragment #35, and Native Poppy have my favorite art pieces! 

Admire the unique architecture of the Geisel Library on the UCSD Campus. It’s kinda like an inverted 8-story pyramid, filled with over 7 million books! Whoa!

Check out the 72,000 square feet of the San Diego California Temple — the two striking white spires are even more impressive all lit up at night. Even if you aren’t religious, it’s still a peaceful place to walk around and enjoy the scenery.

Find your favorite color at the aptly named Favorite Color mural in La Jolla, created by Roy McMakin back in 2010. Since you’re already in the area, why not check out some other La Jolla murals as well.

Hear a concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, the world’s largest pipe organ. We were lucky enough to watch a rehearsal performance on our last visit and it was honestly so mind blowing! The talent is real!

See the “Fallen Star” at UCSD , an art installation by South Korean artist Do Ho Suh. What is it? Literally a cute little cottage that looks like it’s been dropped from the sky and landed on the roof at an angle. Whoa. It kinda looks like Dorothy’s house from the Wizard of Oz just randomly appeared on campus! The installation is open to visitors, and yes, it’s earthquake safe.

Secret San Diego Bucket List Items

Head to the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market , a Saturday marketplace with stalls selling fish, shrimp, and more, freshly caught by local fisherman. It’s a cool place to shop for fresh seafood on the dock behind Seaport Village.

Find the Mushroom Beach House in La Jolla , a unique mushroom-shaped building hiding at the bottom of the cliffs at Blacks Beach. You can’t enter the house since it’s private property, but still fun to see from the beach!

Swing your little heart out on the hidden swings in La Jolla (one of the best photo spots in San Diego ) — park by the Birch Aquarium and make the short (and easy) hike up from Expedition Way. There’s even ocean views! 

Climb up the nearly 200-foot-tall California Tower at Museum of Us for expansive views of Balboa Park. It’s covered with intricate carvings, colorful tile, and even glass beads!

Participate in a Grunion Run at the beach! What’s that you ask? When THOUSANDS upon thousands of small silver fish swarm the beaches at night and bury their eggs in the sand — a phenomenon unique to only southern California and the northern Baja coast! I bet you’ve never seen anything like it in your life. A must for the San Diego bucket list!

Watch the brave souls jump off the sandstone cliffs at the Torrey Pines Gliderport , and then decide for yourself if you wanna take part next time!

Go on an epic adventure to the hidden Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave , a sea cave with an impressive open ceiling! It’s only accessible during negative tide, so do your research ahead of time! Add this to your San Diego bucket list if you want a true adventure!

Explore the Sunny Jim Sea Cave , the only cave in California accessible by land. You’ll need to enter via a 100-year-old tunnel from The Cave Store and walk down over 100 possibly slippery steps, but that view from the cave — omg!

See the impressive San Diego skyline from Centennial Park on Coronado Island — since the park sits right across the bay, you get perfect views of downtown. 

Walk across the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge , hidden in a residential neighborhood that sways when people walk on it. Look down below for views of the canyon!

Find the mysterious sunken ship at Coronado Beach — it’s a super rare occurrence (occurring only after big storms and during particularly low tides), and one I definitely haven’t been able to check off my San Diego bucket list just yet!

See downtown San Diego all lit up at night from Harbor Island , especially Coasterra and Island Prime (and order the fresh crab and avocado stack while you’re there!)

Climb down the potentially muddy trail from the Coast Walk to find the La Jolla Secret Swing #2 — hidden in a grove of palm trees! You’ll need to wear proper shoes if you wanna cross this off your San Diego bucket list!

San Diego Bucket List Beaches

Sunbathe on the long, sandy stretches of Torrey Pines State Beach while watching the hang gliders soar overhead (you’ll have to hike down since the beach lies at the bottom of the State Reserve).

Rent an iconic red and white striped chaise lounge and spend the day relaxing at Coronado Beach — it’s commonly said to be one of the best beaches in America (once you see the seemingly-endless white sand complete with gold sparkles you’ll easily see why). Worth checking out on a day trip to San Diego for sure.

Hang ten on a surf lesson , rent a stand up paddle , or simply relax for a quintessential Southern California beach day at La Jolla Shores Beach

Walk over to Scripps Beach and don’t miss a shot under the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier ! One for the San Diego bucket list if you’re looking for the best photography locations. You may even see an engagement photoshoot over here!

Catch some waves at Blacks Beach below the bluffs of Torrey Pines (you can see all the hang gliders in the sky here!), just remember it’s a nude beach so keep this in mind so there’ll be no surprises.

Dip your toes in the water at La Jolla Cove , one of San Diego’s prettiest spots — there’s even sea lions hanging out here sometimes!

Walk above Windansea Beach on Neptune Place to see one of La Jolla’s prettiest beaches, a local’s spot surrounded by multi-million-dollar homes (the strong shore break can be super dangerous so leave the water for the surfers)

Hikes, Trails, and Nature

Scramble and squeeze through the small sandstone canyons on Annie’s Canyon Trail then climb up the metal stairs to the viewpoint above — it’s less than 2 miles roundtrip and totally looks like the Slot Canyon Hike in Anza-Borrego State Park near Borrego Springs I recently did.

Spend the day hiking up El Cajon Mountain (El Cap) , probably the most grueling item on this San Diego bucket list at over 12 miles roundtrip and over 4,000 feet in elevation gain! The relentless journey up and down is definitely not for the faint of heart! Come prepared!

Head to San Diego County’s second highest point at 6,512 feet on the Cuyamaca Peak Loop Trail — it’s beautiful yet strenuous, with tons of spring wild flowers on the seven-mile out-and-back trail near Julian.

Make the grueling trek down from the Torrey Pines Gliderport to Black’s Beach ; just again, remember it’s a nude beach so no photos!

Leap onto the sand from the Torrey Pines State Park Beach Trail , starting high up in the cliffs and weaving your way down to the beach via a rustic footpath and then finishing off with some stairs.

Shimmy down and scramble along the natural steps of the Ho Chi Minh Trail , full of crazy sandstone formations and a deep ravine heading to Black’s Beach. (Psst — it’s also known as the Saigon Trail, Secret Surf Trail, or simply the La Jolla Trail). 

Go for a wander along the Scripps Coastal Meander Trail , connecting two overlooks via a boardwalk more than 150 feet above the beach. Expect beautiful views of the Scripps Pier down to La Jolla Cove, and north to Torrey Pines State Beach and beyond.

Work up a sweat for that instagram photo at Potato Chip Rock , a rock resembling, you guessed it — a potato chip (!) at the end of a 7 mile hike (just be sure to dedicate a full morning for this San Diego bucket list item because it’s 30 miles north of the city in Poway).

Look up at the palms along the 2-mile Palm Canyon Trail in Balboa Park — there’s over 450 palms in nearly 2 acres — a true tropical oasis right in the middle of the park!

Head to the summit of Iron Mountain for one of the best 360 degree views in San Diego. And once you get to the top, use the viewfinder to find the iconic landmarks of the city!

See amazing sea life at the Cabrillo National Monument tidepools , like starfish, crabs, lobsters, sea anemone, and maybe even an octopus! Volunteers may be there to help you identify species.

History in San Diego

Check out the USS Midway Museum with it’s life-at-sea exhibits, restored planes, and flight simulators aboard a legendary aircraft carrier.

Pay your respects at the Mount Soledad Veterans Memoria l where you can also sneak panoramic views of San Diego.

Take a ride on the Coronado Ferry , the oldest working wood ferry in the US, and only a few bucks to Coronado Island.

Walk in the footsteps of California’s early European settlers at Presidio Park , 40 acres of green space on a hill overlooking Old Town (it’s even been designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1960)!

Visit San Diego’s Natural History Museum and travel through 75 million years, learn about the unique biodiversity of Southern California and Baja California, and watch some films in the 3D theatre!

Walk along the waterfront and find the iconic “Embracing Peace” statue, more commonly known as the Kissing Sailor Statue , at a whopping 25 feet tall and 6,000 pounds. Such an iconic thing on this San Diego bucket list!

Check out Heritage County Park , complete with restored Victorian homes (from the late 1880s-1890) and the city’s first synagogue, The Temple Beth Israel. 

Explore Cabrillo National Monument at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, with the Historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse, views of San Diego’s harbor and skyline, as well as lots of history about Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo (the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the United States).

Wander around Chicano Park , home to the largest concentration of Chicano murals in the world. There’s over 80 paintings on seven acres over here; such an unexpected explosion of color!

Learn about the scandals, debauchery, brothels, and more in what used to be San Diego’s red light district on the aptly named Brothels, Bites, and Booze Tour

San Diego Bucket List Foodie Spots

Stuff yourself silly with a California burrito from Lucha Libre Tacos , kinda a mix between a street-style taco shop and a lucha libre match like we saw down in Mexico City . Don’t miss the old-school wrestling memorabilia on the walls. 

Wear your stretchy pants to Monello , my favorite Italian spot in Little Italy! I always come for the cheese wheel pasta (it’s literally tossed together in a wheel of cheese) and a gourmet pizza! The ravioli’s pretty spot on, too! This needs to go on your San Diego bucket list — promise me!

Drive a few miles south for an authentic Tijuana taco experience at Tacos El Gordo , only 10 miles from the Mexican border. Easily the best al pastor and carne asada you’ll find. Try a mula with griddled cheese — those are my favorite! 

Unleash the inner instagrammer in yourself and go snap happy at Morning Glory . Think rose-gold accents, tiled floors, Millennial-pink booths, and even a few rock ‘n roll touches. But expect a (long, long) line — the deco brunch vibes and pink interior are popular for a reason! Order the souffle pancakes and breakfast carbonara — both my favorites!

Bite into a juicy chicken sandwich from The Crack Shack — but whatever you do, order a side of biscuits (they’re so flakey and buttery!)

Stand on line with the locals at Las Cuatro Milpas for some authentic old-school, no-frills Mexican food and homemade tortillas — we got 2 huge plates of food for just over $10!

Snack on some fish tacos from Oscars Mexican Seafood , easily the best spot for fresh fish tacos in all of San Diego. 

Feast on a classic California burrito and signature carne asada fries at Lolitas Mexican Food , perfect for some late-night food or before/after a Padre’s game!

Feast on maple bacon donuts, French toast logs, popovers, mimosas, and more at Great Maple for brunch with your girlfriends — upscale and hip with a fun, retro 1950’s vibe. This place is poppin you guys! Make a reservation in advance.

Inspired by the taco stands of Tijuana, The Taco Stand is a San Diego bucket list must for any foodie like me! Definitely grab a few al pastor tacos (obviously), but try the churros and carne asada fries too!

Hit up the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market on Saturday’s from 8am-2pm. You’ll find over 150 vendors with fresh produce, meat & eggs, crafts, plants, and more. There’s also a farmers market in Hillcrest and La Jolla if you can’t make one in Little Italy.

Make a reservation at Puesto , an eclectic spot (with graffiti art on the ceiling) featuring artisanal tacos, mango shrimp ceviche, and mango margaritas. The tacos are kinda overpriced, but worth it to go once.

Have a romantic meal at Island Prime overlooking the water and San Diego skyline. We left absolutely obsessed with all our dishes, especially the crab avo stack, ribeye steak, burrata, and OMG the popovers. Drool.

Sit on the deck overlooking the water watching sailboats go by at The Fish Market – San Diego . Lots of fresh grilled fish and seafood plates on the menu!

Desserts in San Diego

Drool over a pop tart donut from the Donut Bar in the Gaslamp — the menu changes all the time so you can try something new every day! They’re HUGE and super instagrammable — I even added them to my best photo spots in San Diego post !

Build your own dessert heaven from the ground up at iDessert ; you customize the entire thing, including the meringue, gelato, and toppings (make it a Vegas bowl for a super-unique surprise).

Save some room after dinner and treat yourself to a few of San Diego’s prettiest (and delectable) desserts at Extraordinary Desserts — we’ve tried quite a few and love them all!

Make some room for some globally inspired donuts from Nomad Donuts — they’ve even got wood-fired Montreal-style bagels if you don’t want something so sweet.

Order a Hammonds Ice Cream Flight with all 32 flavors on the menu — perfect for those who can’t decide what flavor to pick! The mini cones are just too cute and perfect after a day at the beach. A San Diego bucket list must for ice cream lovers like myself!

Cool off with a handcrafted Mexican popsicle at Holy Paleta — they’ve got tons to pick from, including yogurt with fresh fruit, cookie butter, coffee stuffed with condensed milk, key lime pie, and even matcha latte.

Try a scoop or two of small-batch ice cream from Stella Jean’s Ice Cream — I fell in love with their branding and the flavors were super unique (bring a pint home if you want some for later).

Coffee and Cafes

Sip some San Francisco (!!!) Sightglass Coffee at Communal Coffee , a neighborhood coffee shop, and then take a look in the colorful, bohemian shops. Both spots are super cute and equally instagrammable, but everyone says the South Park location is cuter. Decide for yourself — of course I went to both!

Make a stylish pit stop at The Grounds Bean Bar for locally roasted beans, baked goods, & light bites — still on my San Diego bucket list! Just look at that wallpaper and branding!

Choose from single origins, blends, and barrel-aged coffee blends from Modern Times Coffee (The Invigatorium) . The whole space is super eclectic, with a life-size Ronald McDonald, golden palm trees, and a fun disco ball.

Order a Mint Infused Iced Coffee at Better Buzz , one of my favorite coffee shops in La Jolla with a massive neon BUZZ sign and the cheery pink tables. Easily one of the most instagrammable spots in San Diego !

Sip on a specialty green matcha drink from Holy Matcha ; posh and perfectly pink! The leafy green wallpaper is such a vibe (I low-key want it for my bathroom).

Enjoy some delicious coffee and ice cream all in the same place at Glazed Coffee and Creamery , a new, beachside spot in PB!

Skip the Starbucks and head to S3 Coffee Bar — California’s only 2D cafe! Not only are there 2D walls, but pink velvet chairs and a cacti mural outside, and yes the food and drinks are delicious (I loved my rainbow colorburst vanilla latte and mozzarella avocado toast).

Cocktails, Breweries, and Nightlife

Hit up Trailer Park After Dark , a dive bar serving American comfort food and beers in a funky trailer park-themed atmosphere. Such a fun vibe.

Sit at the rotating bar at Wolfie’s Carousel Bar , an immersive and whimsical new bar in Little Italy with pink, plush seats, creative cocktails, and cheesy French Onion soup. Don’t worry, it moves very slowly, making a full rotation only once every 14 minutes. Add this to your San Diego bucket list if you’re looking for some great IG photos!

Check out San Diego’s craft brewery scene , and hit up local spots like Green Flash Brewing Co , Belching Beaver (what a name, right?!), and Amplified Ale Works — you’ve surely got your pick with over 150 breweries in the county!

Have drinks by the fireplace at Hotel Del Coronado , the old-school but still very swanky famous historic beachfront hotel. If you’re not in the mood for alcohol, the agua frescas are super refreshing!

Sip a Mai tai at the Bali Hai Restaurant super slowly with views of the bay — it’s one of the strongest drinks in the entire city! Make sure to order some food to go along with it — luckily all the Polynesian-inspired meals are fantastic!

Find Noble Experiment , a hidden speakeasy! It’s swanky and secret, tucked behind a secret door in The Neighborhood. You tell them what spirits you like and the bartender whips you something right up!

Warm up by the fire at Craft & Commerce , one of our favorite cocktail bars meets gastropubs in San Diego. Just note some of their decor includes taxidermy, so stay away if that’s not your jam.

Try a few beers on tap or go for a full flight at Modern Times Beer — it’s got a cool, retro hipster vibe complete with weird post-it note art (that changes periodically), old comic books on the walls, and vintage books holding up the bar.

Make a reservation at Raised by Wolves , an upscale bar hidden in a liquor shop — yes please! There’s old-world decor and oak-clad walls giving this cocktail bar a sense of mystery and pure opulence. A San Diego must list must if you adore craft cocktails.

Watch the city transform at night, with beautiful lighting effects in Balboa Park, bright lights and Victorian architecture in the Gaslamp Quarter, and the illuminated San Diego city skyline on the San Diego City Lights Night Tour  

Sip your adult beverage of choice high above the streets of the Gaslamp — there’s plenty of rooftop bars including The Nolen, Rustic Root, Altitude Sky Lounge, and The Pool House (because drinks always taste better with a view)

Seasonal Things to do in San Diego

Spot a whale (Gray Whales migrate winter-spring, while summer sees the legendary Blue Whale) on a whale watching cruise ! You’ll probably also see pods of dolphins and plenty of sea lions! 

Smell the beautiful blooms at the Carlsbad Flower Fields . There’s rows and rows of ranunculus, a cool ocean breeze, sweet smells, and that SoCal sun. Paradise does exist — in the form of 70 million pretty blooms! I was so excited to finally check this off my San Diego bucket list last year! (Spring)

See a horse race and bet on your favorite thoroughbred at the beautiful and historic Del Mar Racetrack (Summer and late Fall)

Swim/snorkel with dozens of leopard sharks in La Jolla — peak viewing is between August and September and you can expect to find the largest annual aggregation of leopard sharks in the world (Summer to early Fall)

Skate by the Sea at the Hotel Del Coronado — the ice rink is set up right by the ocean so you get a great view and can even watch the sunset! Sounds like a San Diego bucket list item for me! (Winter)

Day Trips from San Diego

Devour a famous piece of apple pie from Julian Pie Company in nearby Julian , a cute little gold mine town and one of the best places to visit in San Diego in the fall! You can also go apple picking, sip some apple cider, and even pay a visit to the California Wolf Center .

Head to the desolate desert landscape of Borrego Springs . It’s laid back and unpretentious, with fabulous night skies and a super funky art scene with those infamous metal sculptures. We were surprised by how much we loved this little town!

Pack up the car and drive to Joshua Tree National Park for wild and wacky Joshua Trees, rugged rock formations and giant boulders, an arid desert landscape, and super dark starry night skies. One of my favorite national parks in California .

Spend a few hours exploring (and photographing) every nook and cranny of Salvation Mountain , the quirkiest technicolor mountain you’ve ever seen. It’s a true candy-colored fantasy world in the middle of the desert. 

Fall in love with Palm Springs , full of mid-century modern architecture, boozy weekend brunches, old Hollywood glitz and glam, epic pool hangs, and those chic desert vibes.

Savor some Bordeaux and Rhône varietals in Temecula Valley , and then you can treat yourself to a hot air balloon ride above the vineyards the next morning (or check out the Balloon and Wine Festival in May)! Definitely one for the San Diego bucket list!

Explore the San Juan Capistrano mission (it’s fascinating and famous for a reason), then admire the Spanish architecture, wander through the charming Los Rios Historic District, and have afternoon tea.

Rent a 4×4 and hit up Anza Borrego State Park for some off-roading adventures, including up to Font’s Point for sunset, the surreal desert badlands (California’s Grand Canyon), the remote Clark Homestead site at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, a dry lake bed surrounded by colorful mountains, and for views of Vista del Malpais. 

Hang ten in San Clemente , one of the chillest towns in all of Orange County. Expect near perfect weather, white, sandy beaches, Spanish-style architecture, a rich history, and even golf cart culture (yes, really)!

Sip big, bold, juicy, oaked reds in Valle de Guadalupe , Mexico’s very own wine country! Foodies and wine aficionados, add this to your San Diego bucket list pronto! 

Slap on some Mickey Mouse ears and stroll on into the most magical place on earth, Disneyland , of course! Full of just as much magic as you remember as a kid!

Stand below sea level at the Salton Sea , one of the lowest spots on Earth (at 227 feet below sea level) and probably the stinkiest spot on this San Diego bucket list. Don’t miss the Recreation Area and Bombay Beach Ruins. 

Feel like you’re standing on a different planet at the Glamis Sand Dunes — even Jumanji 3 was filmed right here! You can simply walk out onto the perfect sand ripples or watch the ATV and buggies race on the dunes.

Hop the border and head south to Tijuana ; do some shopping on Avenida Revolución, sip on tequila, feast on some mole tamales, walk on the boardwalk in Playas de Tijuana, and do some learning at the Tijuana Cultural Center.

Brave the traffic and head north to Santa Monica and Venice Beach , where you can walk the Venice Canals, go for a long bike ride on the boardwalk, ride the West Coaster in Pacific Park, and eat funnel cake (the ultimate boardwalk food).

Go abroad to Rosarito Beach , a resort town on the coast of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula known for its beautiful beaches, great snorkeling and surfing, adventurous outdoor activities like horseback riding and zip lining, and its vibrant nightlife. Don’t miss a sunset here — I’ve heard they’re stunning!  

Which of these things to do in San Diego are you adding to your San Diego bucket list?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 50 Best Things to Do in San Diego (California)

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

57 Best & Fun Things To Do In San Diego (California)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 22, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

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

kan_khampanya / Shutterstock

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

Sherry V Smith / Shutterstock

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

vivooo / Shutterstock

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

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

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

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

Dancestrokes / Shutterstock

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

Lucky-photographer / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

Autumn Sky Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

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

Marcel Fuentes / Shutterstock

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

ESB Professional / Shutterstock

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

Jenelle Jacks / Shutterstock

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

DBSOCAL / Shutterstock

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

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

GizaDog / Shutterstock

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

Tiago Pestana / Shutterstock

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

Manuela Durson / Shutterstock

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

FrimuFilms / Shutterstock

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

GagliardiPhotography / Shutterstock

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

Roaming Panda Photos / Shutterstock

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

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

Aleksei Potov / Shutterstock

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

Sean Xu / Shutterstock

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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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.

19 Unique and Fun Things to Do in San Diego

It’s time to dive a little deeper into all of the unique and fun things to do in San Diego beyond going to the beach and the Padres game (do those, too!).

San Diego has a party/beach reputation that is well…well-deserved. But that’s only one side of our city’s amazing personality – there is so much more to offer!

We don’t care if you’re just visiting for a few days, or you’ve spent most of your life here, we know there is something on this list that deserves a visit.

We’re talking about visiting salt mountains at sunset, ringing the bells on a musical bridge – and perhaps a spot or two you’ve heard of before, but haven’t gotten to yet (gentle reminder: it’s time!) .

Here’s 19 fun things to do in San Diego that everyone should have on their San Diego bucket list.

1. The Secret Swings

The Secret Swings are hidden amongst the trees above Scripps Pier on the hillsides of La Jolla. By taking a small hike up from Expedition Way, you’ll be able to sit on a handmade seat (like a bench chair or tire swing) with a stellar ocean view.

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Still curious on what makes these swings so cool? Check out #lajollasecretswings on Instagram.

2. The Spruce Street Suspension Bridge

In Banker’s Hill, you can conquer your fear of heights and give the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge a visit. Made in 1912, it rests above the treetops and moves from side to side as you walk along it.

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And while we’re on the topic of bridges, you may also want to check out all of the bridges on our Guide to San Diego’s Most Romantic Walks , including the 25th Street Bridge — created by artist Roman de Salvo and home to a railing of chromatic bells (don’t forget to bring a pipe or stick to make the noises sound).

3. The SS Monte Carlo Shipwreck

Just below the water’s surface in Coronado, with a visibility that varies depending upon the year, lies the Shipwrecked SS Monte Carlo . This 300-foot ship was a gambling casino known as the “sin ship” and crashed on shore during a winter storm on January 1st, 1937.

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4. The Meditation Gardens

The cliffside Meditation Gardens in Encinitas are free and open to the public. They rest on the grounds of the Self-Realization Fellowship Retreat and Hermitage – where you can explore the flowers, koi ponds and the Birds of Paradise all while finding your ultimate beach-side zen.

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5. Sunny Jim Cave

Sunny Jim Cave is accessible via a hand-dug tunnel through a gift shop in La Jolla. It’s $5 for adults and $3 for children (with the added bonus of a plastic sea creature to take home). For a uniquely San Diego experience, you’ll venture down the narrow staircase of 145 steps until you reach a platform leading to an incredible ocean view — where snorkelers and kayakers drift by.

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6. Harper’s Topiary Garden

In Mission Hills, behold the beautifully green art of Edna and Alex Harper’s hillside topiary garden . You’ll find exquisitely trimmed hedges in the shapes of perfectly groomed animals, like whales and elephants. They don’t call her “Edna Scissorhands” for nothing!

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7. The Inn at Sunset Cliffs

Located in Point Loma / Ocean Beach, the Inn at Sunset Cliffs  invites visitors to come swim in their outdoor heated pool for $10 a day. The bonus? The pool overlooks the expansive Pacific Ocean, and locals are encouraged to bring their beverages, barbecue and “come hang at San Diego’s best kept secret!”

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8. Ho Chi Minh Trail

This secret surf trail for the adventure-seeker is home to slot canyons, sandstone edges and wooden planks. You can access the path by a walkway next to a home on La Jolla Farms Road, where you’ll see a sign for the trailhead between two green construction fences. Keep in mind, it can be steep and slippery — so avoid it after rainfall and please be careful on your quest to see those sweeping ocean views.

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9. Stein Family Farm

The Stein Family Farm is a two-acre Living History Farm Museum with a Victorian farmhouse and a 100 plus year-old barn (in other words, maybe haunted). Enjoy what life was like back in the 1900s in National City by exploring the organic garden and playing with the farm animals (like Petunia the Pig).

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10. Shelter Island Pier

On Shelter Island Pier, you’ll a find a bait and tackle shop and also, a tap house with burgers, beer, brews and sausages. Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle is a wildly unexpected, pleasant surprise with insane food. They make all their sausages and kimchi, grind their own beef for the burgers, and have 15 taps of San Diego’s best beers and beers from around the world. So, after a day in the sand, sea and the sun, you know just where to go to unwind even further.

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11. The Salt Mountains

In Chula Vista, you can find massive 40 foot mountains of salt along the shoreline. South Bay Salt Works salt factory is home to one of only two salt ponds in California and is San Diego’s second-oldest commercial business (behind the Union Tribune). They’ve been harvesting salt since the 1870s and are eligible to be placed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. (They’d pair well with a margarita mountain, too, we think.)

12. Swami’s State Beach

In addition to being known for its surf break, Swami’s is also home to a substantial reef formation that can be seen during low and minus tides. The perfect place for tide pool exploring, you can admire oyster fossils, crabs, octopus, brittle stars, starfish, sea cucumbers and sea hares.

13. Coronado Sand Dunes

Located on the beach that stretches in front of the Hotel Del Coronado are the Coronado Sand Dunes. Locals see them as an obstacle course, but what many folks don’t know is that they spell out a secret message (one that’s not visible from eye level, but can be seen from aircrafts and Google Maps). Thanks to a creative maintenance man who was trying to get rid of sea weed after a storm back in the ’80s, these dunes are man-made and spell out the word: Coronado.

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14. Broken Hill

Though San Diego is home to many epic sunset spots, Broken Hill at Torrey Pines State Reserve just may be one of the most breathtaking. Enjoy sandstone bluffs amongst the coastline and one of the Earth’s rarest species of trees that finds its safe haven here in San Diego.

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15. The Past of Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park in Mission Hills was once home to a 19th century Catholic Burial ground known as the Calvary Cemetery. For those more faint-of-heart, simply take in the breeze amongst these beautiful trees. For those that don’t mind a healthy spook, remember that even though the gravestones were removed in the 1960s to build the park, there are still 4,000 bodies buried underground.

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16. The Torrey Pines Gliderport

Watching perfectly healthy people voluntarily walk off of a cliff takes some getting used to, but you’ll see enough of it in an hour or two at the Torrey Pines Gliderport to think it’s the thing to do! We recommend grabbing something to eat from the Cliff Hanger Cafe, then sit and enjoy the views!

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17. The Coronado Bridge…from Both Sides!

You won’t get a better view of San Diego area than the one you’ll get from crossing the Coronado Bridge (drivers keep your eye on the road)! Making the cross over to Coronado is a must. But don’t forget to see it from the other side, too!

We think that renting a boat and getting out on the water in the San Diego Bay is an absolute must while you’re in San Diego. The perspective of the City and its surroundings that you’ll get from the water is really cool, and being out on the water in a boat is just damn fun!

Whether you feel like driving, paddling, or sipping champagne while someone else does all of the work…there is an option for you.

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18. The USS Midway

You can’t say you’ve been to San Diego unless you visit the USS Midway , the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century. Named after the climactic Battle of Midway of June 1942, Midway was built in only 17 months, but missed World War II by one week when commissioned on September 10, 1945. 

Today it’s staffed largely by volunteer veterans that will share some of the most amazing stories you’ll ever hear!

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19. San Diego’s Amazing Parks

Yes, all of the major theme parks in Southern California get all of the attention, but it’s our smaller local parks that are the true gems for those who actually live here. We’ll go ahead and lump these all into one list or we’ll go on and on, but these are all absolute must-see’s in San Diego!

Balboa Park

Balboa Park , which many of us consider the jewel of the city, is home to many of the city’s most famous attractions and is worthy of as much time and attention as you can give it, simply exploring whatever draws you in.

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Belmont Park

There is nothing more ‘classic San Diego’ than Belmont Park , the perfect beachside amusement park you thought only existed in the movies. Nope…it’s in San Diego.

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The San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is always on the list for one of the best zoos in the world, and with good reason.

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The San Diego Zoo Safari Park

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park , the sister park of the main San Diego Zoo, is a bit of a drive outside of the city, but it’s worth it to see the animals roaming in an environment that’s as close to the real deal as you can imagine! We highly recommend booking a safari tour!

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See you there!

From sand dunes to tide pool explorations to Petunia the Pig, we hope this list has inspired you to get out there and explore those hidden spots that make San Diego fun, exciting, and certainly unique.

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Home » North America » San Diego

21 BEST Places to Visit in San Diego (2024)

A large coastal city in California, San Diego is famous for its long sandy beaches, great warm and sunny weather all throughout the year, and for being home to one of the best zoos in the world. There’s a wealth of amazing places to visit in San Diego, ranging from gorgeous parks and interesting museums, to historic neighbourhoods, ethnic enclaves, and cool amusement parks. With excellent shopping opportunities, exciting dining options, and a vibrant nightlife, there’s no end to the fun in San Diego. Plus, there are even more fantastic things to do and see in the wider San Diego County.

As the eighth biggest city in the USA, exploring San Diego can be somewhat intimidating. Knowing what to include on your bucket list and where to begin with your sightseeing in San Diego can be tricky.

Don’t stress though! Our dedicated team of travel writers has created the ultimate list of the best places to visit in San Diego to help make planning your holiday a whole lot easier. Including things for all types of travellers, a good mixture of popular tourist attractions in San Diego and hidden gems, and something to suit all interests, having the time of your life will be easy!

Some of these best places to visit in San Diego are sure to amaze you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in San Diego:

These are the best places to visit in san diego, faq on the best places to visit in san diego, more fantastic places to visit in san diego.

Old Town is an area of San Diego that marks the birthplace of the state of California. It is the site of the first Spanish settlement in the early-1800s and today still retains much of its historic charms and architecture.

• Visit the Junipero Serra Museum to see exhibits and displays on the life in Old Town.
• Enjoy incredible Mexican fare at Casa De Reyes.
• Visit the Whaley House Museum, which is rumoured to be the most haunted house in America.

If you’re looking for a comfortable place to stay, check out our guide to the best vacation rentals in San Diego if you need more information on where to stay in San Diego .

And, with those travel tips covered, here are the best places to visit in San Diego:

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#1 – San Diego Zoo – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in San Diego

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• Award-winning zoo;
• Home to more than 650 species of animals;
• Conservation, preservation, and education efforts;
• Various ways to explore San Diego Zoo.

Why it’s awesome: One of the best places in San Diego, the world-famous and award-winning San Diego Zoo appeals to old and young alike. Home to more than 650 animal species today, the zoo started from taking care of animals abandoned after an exhibition. A leading open zoo (whereby animals aren’t kept in cages), there are several fascinating zones throughout the large complex. The zoo is active in conservation, education, research, and preservation projects and is one of just a few global zoos that successfully breeds pandas. If you don’t feel like walking too far there is a gondola and a tour bus around the zoo, and there are plenty of places to take a break and enjoy refreshments.

What to do there: Observe a huge array of animals from around the world in the various well-designed zones around the expansive zoo. Catch the tour bus to cover most parts of the zoo and save your leg power or soar above the animals for a bird’s eye view from the Skyfari. Discover the zoo’s different areas, designed to closely replicate wild habitats.

Visit Panda Canyon to observe the cute pandas, learn more about the difficult-to-breed creatures at the Giant Panda Discovery Centre, and follow the Panda Trek to see more animals from China. Spot various monkeys from Asia and Africa along the Monkey Trails, visit Polar Bear Plunge, experience Africa at Ituri Forest, watch creatures from Australia in the Outback area, and much more.

#2 – USS Midway Museum – One of San Diego’s coolest historical sites!

• Former naval aircraft carrier;
• Displays of different aircraft;
• Informative audio tour;
• Long and interesting history.

Why it’s awesome: The USS Midway Museum is on a historic warship, the naval aircraft carrier called Midway. It was the USA’s longest-serving aircraft during the 20 th century and was in operation for the entire duration of the Cold War. It was involved in several missions and humanitarian work. After retirement, the enormous vessel was turned into a museum. It contains more than 30 aircraft and provides excellent information about war history and aviation. There are diverse activities for people of all ages and the museum regularly hosts special events.

What to do there: Follow the self-guided tour around the mighty former warship, peeking into the living quarters, kitchen, engine room, officers’ quarters, flight deck, chapel, laundry areas, and bridge, all while listening to interesting facts and personal accounts on the audio guide. See various restored planes and helicopters and discover the roles they have played throughout US history.

Take your seat in the theatre to relive the dramatic Battle of Midway, learn what it’s like to pilot an aircraft in the flight simulators, and chat with volunteers who actually served on the ship and in the military. Younger visitors can join the Junior Pilot program and there are overnight adventures for groups of 20 or more youths too.

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#3 – La Jolla – A perfect place to visit in San Diego if you are on a budget!

• Trendy seaside community;
• Long and popular sandy beach;
• Various activities and attractions;
• Relaxed atmosphere.

Why it’s awesome: La Jolla features a rugged coastline, a sandy beach, and a hip community on the hillsides. There’s no cost to bask on the sandy shores and soak up the sunshine, and it’s a great place to enjoy a day at the seaside. The town is also an interesting place for a wander and you’ll find plenty of things to see and do, with something to suit all budgets. There’s an arty vibe and the atmosphere is laid back. There’s a variety of places to eat, drink, sleep, and shop, and although close to the heart of San Diego it feels like another world completely. This is the perfect day trip from San Diego .

What to do there: One of the most popular hotspots in San Diego, head to La Jolla for a fun day at the seaside. Sunbathe, take a dip in the refreshing waves, admire the views, and take part in water sports like snorkelling, kayaking, and surfing. Spot creatures like leopard sharks, colourful fish, marine birds, and seals.

Sit around a fire-pit and watch the sun go down for a romantic evening. Let kids have fun at the play area and visit attractions like the Birch Aquarium, La Jolla Playhouse, art galleries, and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Stroll along Prospect Street and Girard Avenue for some window shopping in charming boutiques, enjoy the diverse eateries, and see interesting street art.

#4 – Seaport Village – A great place in San Diego if you love to shop!

• Good selection of shops;
• Varied dining options;
• Outdoor entertainment;
• Lovely setting.

Why it’s awesome: Seaport Village, located in downtown, is a popular place for shopping and leisure. It’s built on reclaimed land that was once used as a burial ground for sailors who had died onboard their ship from scurvy. Today, pathways lead through the charmingly designed complex, with various architectural styles including Spanish Revival and Victorian English. There are great views of San Diego Harbour too. There’s a wide assortment of shops as well as restaurants and cafes that serve diverse cuisine. Street performers are scattered through the complex and there are regular free music performances in the afternoons.

What to do there: Browse in the varied shops, with goods that range from clothes, art, and toys, to crafts, homewares, and souvenirs. Stop for a bite to eat in a restaurant or café and enjoy dishes from around the world as well as typical fast food and Americana. Visit the food court in the afternoon to listen to a variety of musical performances. As you wander through the pedestrianized complex you’ll come across artists who have skills like caricature drawing, face painting, and balloon art. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the great views of the harbour, Coronado Island, and Coronado Bridge.

#5 – Balboa Park – One of the nicer places in San Diego to sightsee!

• Large urban park;
• One of the oldest parks in the USA;
• Varied leisure options;
• Family friendly.

Why it’s awesome: When you’re planning what to do in San Diego, visiting Balboa Park should definitely be on your list. One of the most famous places in San Diego, the large Balboa Park covers some 1,200 acres (490 hectares) and is one of the oldest parks in the USA. Indeed, it’s a National Historic Landmark. There are wide open spaces with lots of nature as well as cultural attractions, gardens, museums, diverse entertainment and leisure facilities, places to eat and drink, and gift shops. The park is a place where nature, history, and art meet. It’s easy to spend several hours at the park and find plenty to fill your time, and there’s no charge to enter the park (though charges may apply for attractions within the park).

What to do there: Enjoy the beautiful landscaped gardens, including the Palm Canyon, Zoro Garden, Rose Garden, and Marston House Garden. Explore the world’s botany in the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Australian Garden, the Alcazar Garden, and the Florida Canyon Native Plant Preserve, and remember those who passed away and fought for freedom in the Veterans Memorial Garden.

You can take a tour to learn more about the park’s history, nature, and cultural institutions, and there are several museums (including San Diego Art and Space Institute, Timken Museum of Art, and San Diego History Centre) to visit. The sprawling San Diego Zoo, a San Diego must do, is within the huge park and you’ll find a good selection of venues where you can watch fantastic performing arts. Watch as kids have fun on the carousel and mini train, spot landmarks like the El Cid Statue and California Tower, and take a look in the diverse retail establishments.

#6 – Gaslamp Quarter – A great place to see in San Diego if you love architecture

• Blend of old and new architecture;
• Popular nightlife area;
• Historic heart of San Diego;
• Atmospheric.

Why it’s awesome: The Gaslamp Quarter (often referred to locally as the Gaslamp District) is San Diego’s historic core, with a history dating back to the 1860s. It is named for the many gas lamps that light the streets in the evening. Soaring skyscrapers sit alongside quaint and elegant buildings from the Victorian era.

A major place for leisure and entertainment, there are many shops, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs to keep people happy throughout the day and night. A number of major events are held in the area throughout the year, including the vibrant Mardi Gras celebrations. You can also find some great hostels to stay in close to all the fun in this district.

What to do there: Take a walk through the Gaslamp Quarter and see the diverse architecture; it’s a haven for photography lovers . Take a tour to learn more about the area’s past, present, and developments. There are around 70 restaurants to choose from when you feel peckish, with diverse menus to cater to all tastes. In the evenings you can sip a drink in one of many bars and dance the night away in the vibrant nightclubs. Don’t miss seeing the famous gas lamps illuminated in all their glory too!

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#7 – Embarcadero – Great place to visit in San Diego for couples!

• Scenic waterfront vistas;
• Varied attractions;
• Lively vibe;
• Numerous eateries.

Why it’s awesome: One of the major points of interest in San Diego, Embarcadero is the area alongside San Diego Bay and next to the harbour. A pleasant place for a stroll, the walkway provides terrific views across the water. The atmosphere is simultaneously lively and relaxing and it’s a top spot to indulge in some people watching. There are diverse monuments and statues to see as well as a great selection of places to eat and stop for some quick refreshments. Cool boat tours depart from the area and there are several top-class museums.

What to do there: Walk along the Embarcadero hand in hand with your love as you soak up the vibe and views. Visit the USS Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum, both offering interesting insights into maritime and naval military history, and see the diverse monuments and pieces of public art. There are some 30 sculptures along the walkway, each created by a different artist and all covering different themes. Call by Embarcadero Marina Park for some quiet time and a delightful picnic. Take a boat ride to see many cool landmarks in San Diego from a different perspective.

#8 – Point Loma – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in San Diego

• Hilly seaside community;
• Historical significance;
• Interesting landmarks;
• Wildlife spotting opportunities.

Why it’s awesome: Point Loma was the first place where Europeans went ashore in California and the hilly coastal peninsula has a rich history. The rugged cliffs offer terrific views and there are stunning natural sights along the coast. It’s also sometimes possible to spot whales swimming off the coast. There are also significant and attractive landmarks. The marina has varied boat trips and there’s a cool artist area close to hand. Diverse activities in the area include fishing, surfing, photography, and diving.

What to do there: Take a walk along the craggy cliffs and enjoy the views and the sounds of the waves crashing beneath you ( remember to stay safe by not walking too close to the edge though). See an abundance of aquatic life in the tide pools and join a whale-watching boat trip. Admire Point Loma Lighthouse, a major landmark in San Diego, and see the historic Cabrillo National Monument. Soak up the arty vibe around Liberty Station and see the diverse architecture and visit Humphreys Concerts by the Bay to watch live entertainment right on the waterfront. Stick around until the early evening to witness a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

#9 – Petco Park – Cool place to see in San Diego with friends!

• Major baseball park;
• Concert venue;
• Great views;
• Interesting architecture.

Why it’s awesome: Petco Park is a large baseball ground. Home of the San Diego Padres, the park has been open since 2004. Built from gleaming white-painted steel and decorated with stucco and Indian sandstone, the grounds have been designed so as to resemble the colours of San Diego’s beaches, cliffs, ocean, and boats in the bay. Some seating areas provide great views of the ocean and Balboa Park.

There are restaurants, bars, and shops throughout the ballpark, all of which have large TV screens to make sure that fans don’t miss any of the action. As well as being a major baseball ground, Petco Park is also used for rugby, football, and golf matches. Additionally, concerts are frequently held here, with former big names including the Rolling Stones, the Eagles, Madonna, Taylor Swift, and Aerosmith.

What to do there: Book tickets to watch a match and cheer on the local MLB team, the San Diego Padres. Experience the electric energy, particularly as the crowds go wild when their favourite team scores. But baseball merchandise in the shops and enjoy a meal in one of the ground’s eateries. Take a tour of the baseball park to learn more about its history, great moments in the sport, personalities, and more, and go behind the scenes to see places that are normally off-limit to visitors.

#10 – SeaWorld San Diego – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in San Diego!

• Home to a large array of aquatic animals;
• Exciting shows;
• Thrilling rides;
• Family-friendly attraction.

Why it’s awesome: SeaWorld San Diego is a San Diego must-see, especially for families. Covering 190 acres (77 hectares), the park has a huge selection of aquatic animals in various habitats, large aquariums, awesome shows and educational experiences, and cool interactive encounters. Add to that a selection of exciting rides, places to eat and drink, and great merchandise in the shops and you’ve got a lot of fun for a day! There are special activities and attractions for younger visitors too, letting them really get to know the ocean deep.

What to do there: Enter Explorer’s Reef for a fabulous underwater adventure where small fish will gently nibble at your hand and you can interact with rays and sharks. Discover the various aquariums and exhibits, coming face to face with water creatures from across the globe. See things like gigantic orcas and beluga whales, sea lions, otters, penguins, walruses, dolphins, turtles, and a plethora of fish in all sizes and colours.

Be mesmorised by amazing shows, including Polynesian fire dancing and the story of how marine animals are rescued, rehabilitated, and released back to the wild. Get a rush on the high and twisty roller coaster of Electric Eel, get your heart racing on Tidal Twister, get wet and wild on Shipwreck Rapids, and ride the flume of Journey to Atlantis. Little ones can enjoy rides like Elmo’s Flying Fish, Aqua Scout, Octa Rock, and Tentacle Twirl.

#11 – San Diego Museum of Man – A fascinating educational place to visit in San Diego

• Learn more about civilisations;
• Delve deeper into human behaviours;
• Excellent cultural attraction;
• Beautiful architecture.

Why it’s awesome: Located in Balboa Park, the Museum of Man is not only an educational and fascinating museum, but it’s also one of the most unusual things to do in San Diego . A top place for fans of cultural anthropology, the Museum of Man gives insights into anything and everything related to human beings. There’s a wide selection of artefacts, photographs, and historic objects accompanied by comprehensive information.

The buildings themselves are striking, dating back to the early 1900s, with the distinctive California Tower that really catches the eye. It is normally possible to go to the top of the tower to enjoy splendid views over Balboa Park and beyond.

What to do there: Explore the museum’s various exhibits and displays, learning more about human beings, behaviours, ancient and modern civilisations, myths, connections and emotions, and more. You can even learn about the history of beer!

Ponder race and whether people really are that different to each other, feel a shudder as you learn more about cannibalism (and dispel common myths), enter the world of monsters, and see the connections between humans and animals and the bonds that the different species can make with one another. Travel back in time to delve into ancient civilisations, including the ancient Egyptians and Mayans, Don’t miss seeing the rare painted wooden coffins and burial masks. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Facing Artifacts and Graffiti Art Murals displays.

#12 – Mission Beach – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in San Diego

• Community built on a sandbar;
• Something for all ages;
• Lovely sandy beach;
• Diverse activities.

Why it’s awesome: When you travel to San Diego , Mission Beach is one of those top places you should visit at least once (although, you’ll probably find yourself being drawn back many times during your San Diego vacation!). The atmosphere is jovial and lively and it’s a great place to enjoy the sunshine. The beach is appealing for families, couples, and friends of all ages. There’s a long boardwalk and diverse activities to suit all interests and tastes. From amusement park rides and mini golf to a fabulous selection of restaurants, boat trips, and kids’ play areas, you’re sure to find plenty to keep you amused and busy at Mission Bay.

What to do there: Relax on the sandy beach and join in with activities like sailing, beach volleyball, diving, surfing, and boogie boarding. Swim in the sea and cool down in the refreshing waters. Take boat rides to look for whales in the wild. Unwind in green and leafy parks, complete with lots of space for children to run and let off steam, play areas, and picnic areas.

Have fun on the rides at Belmont Park, home to a cool restored roller coaster from the mid-1920s, tackle the rock climbing course, go wild in the bumper cars, and play a game of miniature golf. Stroll along the boardwalk and admire the views, or rent a bicycle to explore under peddle power. If you’re looking for a sizzling nightlife be sure to return to Mission Beach in the evening.

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#13 – Convoy Street – A must-see for foodies!

• Numerous eateries;
• Lots of Asian fare;
• Foodie tours;
• Well-stocked international food supermarkets.

Why it’s awesome: Slightly away from some of more famous attractions in San Diego, Conway Street is one of the best places to eat in San Diego. Indeed, it’s often said to be one of the top destinations in the whole country for sampling a wide selection of Asian cuisine which is why you may need to ask a friend to hide your money , but not because it’s dangerous. You’ll just be way too tempted to spend it all in the assortment of restaurants here.

There are over 100 eateries to choose from dishing up a huge and enticing selection of specialities from the Far East, with Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Thai, and more to tempt hungry visitors. The vibe is distinctly Asian too, and many restaurants have eye-catching décor and furnishings that help to transport you overseas. Various operators run food tours through the area too if you simply just don’t know where to start!

What to do there: If you have a hankering for a particular type of Asian cuisine, seek out an establishment with that speciality and feast to your hearts content. Alternatively, stroll along the vibrant street and let your senses guide you! Do come hungry though as you’re likely to want to sample a few places. Or, you can schedule repeat visits to truly satisfy your cravings! Sink your teeth into things like Vietnamese pho, Peking duck, tangy pad Thai, a wide assortment of dim sum, sushi and sashimi, crispy noodles, spicy soups, Korean BBQ, steaming hot pot, and much, much more. Pick up authentic goods in the Asian supermarkets and pop into local bakeries.

#14 – Mission San Diego de Alcalá – One of the most religious places to see in San Diego

• Gorgeous Spanish-style building;
• Long history;
• Wine-making heritage;
• Self-sufficiency practices.

Why it’s awesome: Mission San Diego de Alcalá was established in July 1769 by a Spanish friar. California was previously a province of New Spain and Mission San Diego de Alcalá was the first of several Franciscan missions in the area. Interesting, the city of San Diego itself is named after a Spanish Franciscan brother. The present white building is the fifth church to stand at this spot, with the current church dating back to the early 19 th century. In the past, the mission aimed to be self-sufficient, and farming practices were developed. The mission also planted the first vineyards in California and it went on to produce wine.

What to do there: Admire the white-washed church from the outside, complete with its large bell wall that contains five bells. Visit the remains of the 1806 friars’ home and see an array of historic artefacts, including clothes, tools, and pottery, in the museum. The museum also has old photos and documents that help you to understand more about early Catholicism in the area. Explore the recreated Casa de los Padres for a journey into times gone by, and see the nearby replica oven from the past. Enjoy tranquillity in the meditation garden and admire the flora. Step inside the church to marvel at the beautiful religious artworks and absorb the spiritual air. It is still an active place of worship and you can attend a religious service too if you like.

#15 – Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in San Diego

• Picturesque coastal state park;
• Fantastic views;
• Diverse wildlife;
• Excellent walking trails.

Why it’s awesome: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is definitely a great addition to any San Diego itinerary . Located in La Jolla, it’s one of Southern California’s most rugged and wild coastal stretches. It covers around 2,000 acres (809 hectares). A National Natural Landmark, the plateau has craggy cliffs that look over the beach.

The lagoon attracts many types of migrating ocean birds, and the reserve has a rich array of flora and fauna. Eight trails run through the reserve, varying in length and difficulty levels. Each offers the perfect way for keen hikers to enjoy the great outdoors, see glorious views, and spot a range of wildlife.

What to do there: Follow the walking trails through the scenic Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, looking out for creatures like rabbits, skunks, foxes, and bobcats. There are many birds too, both on dry land and in the pretty lagoon. Keep an eye open for sightings of whales in the water from the top of the cliffs during migration season—you might get lucky! The area is known for the Torrey pine, a rare type of tree.

Snap pictures of the unusual Flat Rock and sunbathe on the beach. Want an even suntan? Check out Black’s Beach, San Diego’s unofficial nudist spot. You can visit the small museum on top of the cliffs to learn more about the area’s nature and geology.

#16 – Lemon Grove – Quite the quirky place in San Diego!

• Gigantic lemon statue;
• Whale-watching opportunities;
• Many lemon groves;
• Family-friendly attractions.

Why it’s awesome: Close to the border with Mexico, San Diego’s city of Lemon Grove has a wealth of great things to see and do. It is also home to one of the most unusual things to do in San Diego—seeing a humungous statue of a lemon ! Often said to the biggest lemon in the world, the mammoth 1,360-kilogram (3,000-pound) lemon reflects the area’s lemon-growing past.

There are still abundant lemon orchards throughout the city as well as fun things like museums, golf courses, sporting events, clubs, and whale-watching trips. The city was also once home to other unusual and interesting features—mummified bodies! Stolen from caves in Mexico, the bodies were hidden in a garage in Lemon Grove for some 14 years before being discovered again!

What to do there: Pose for selfies in front of the huge bright yellow lemon statue for some unusual vacation pictures to remind you of your trip to San Diego. Check out the local events calendar, filled with things like reading clubs for people of all ages, farmers markets, play days for kids, keep fit classes, bird-watching trips, and more. Get your swing in order with a game of golf and explore the city’s local attractions.

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#17 – Elfin Forest – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in San Diego!

• Outdoor adventures
• Lots of nature and wildlife
• Off the beaten track
• Tales of the paranormal

Why it’s awesome: San Diego’s Elfin Forest is a relatively under-visited residential area with a beautiful recreation park. Homes sit on hills in the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains and the rural suburb is peaceful and quiet. There are fruit orchards and horse ranches to further add to the pastoral air. The coastal scrub offers outdoor activities and nature watching as well as terrific views. Various endangered and rare animal and plant species live/grow in the area. Spookily, Elfin Forest is often said to be one of the most haunted places on the planet!

What to do there: Stop by a local store and pick up locally grown fruits like lemons, avocados, oranges, and grapefruits. Chat with locals to learn more about the ghosts and legends that surround the area. Follow the hiking trails through Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve, spotting the diverse nature and soaking up the views. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the gnatcatcher—one of the area’s rarest and most endangered occupants.

#18 – Little Italy – An awesome place to visit in San Diego for half a day!

• Historic heart of San Diego’s tuna fishing industry;
• Cool ethnic enclave;
• Delicious dining;
• Cultural events.

Why it’s awesome: San Diego’s Little Italy started life as a fishing village, with mainly Italian residents. In times gone by, San Diego was known as the Tuna Capital of the western USA. Today, the vibrant and pretty neighbourhood reflects the heritage of the city’s Italian immigrants through its restaurants, shops, art galleries, and architecture. There are many festivals and events throughout the year to enjoy too. There’s plenty to see and do and the area has some of San Diago’s best hidden gems to explore.

What to do there: Browse in the diverse shops and art galleries and call into one of the restaurants for some tasty and authentic Italian meals, like pasta and pizza. If you’re visiting San Diego for the weekend, pick up fresh produce at the weekly Mercato (farmers market). Be inspired by Italian recipes engraved on the tables at the pleasant Amici Park, see the spot where the San Diego Macaroni Factory once stood, visit the San Diego Firehouse Museum, hunt for the hidden ring in the pavement along India Street, and see the intricate mural in the Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Download the local app for a free self-guided walking tour around Little Italy’s historic highlights.

#19 – Sunset Cliffs Natural Park – One of the most romantic places to visit in San Diego!

• Beautiful family-friendly beach;
• Nice hiking trails;
• Great vistas;
• Perfect place to watch the sunset.

Why it’s awesome: One of the top San Diego vacation ideas for couples, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is filled with natural splendours. Located near Point Loma, the park boasts gorgeous unique landscapes, natural caves, unusual rock formations, coastal flora and fauna, and terrific ocean views. As the name suggests, it’s also one of the best places in San Diego to watch a glorious sunset with your love. The natural park covers some 68 acres (28 hectares).

What to do there: If you have your own vehicle, cruise along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard for amazing views and changing scenery. There are also routes that you can follow by foot to enjoy the scenery and vistas. Appreciate the natural treasures like small caves, sandy beach, rock formations, and rock arches that rest in the swirling waves. See ocean life in the intertidal pools and on the sands. In the migration season you might also spot whales out in the ocean. Do stick around until the evening to watch a beautiful sunset.

#20 – Queen Califia’s Magical Circle – One of the more unique places to visit in San Diego!

• Enchanting park;
• Colourful mosaics;
• Whimsical attraction;
• Excellent photo opportunities.

Why it’s awesome: Located in Escondido and just a short drive from downtown San Diego, Queen Califia’s Magical Circle is one of the most unusual things to do in San Diego. Within Kit Carson Park, the stunning mosaic garden was designed by a French artist. The artist was inspired by local myths, nature, and heritage. There are huge colourful statues along with a snaking wall, a maze, and plenty of seating. Whimsical, vibrant, and more than a bit quirky, the playful garden is sure to appeal to your imagination.

What to do there: Make your way through the black, white, and mirrored entrance maze to emerge in a beautiful courtyard and a colourful wonderland. See the snake-topped wall that encircles the garden and admire the large and eye-catching statues. Be awed as you gaze upon the huge shimmering statue of Queen Califia with an eagle flying proudly overhead. Mythical figures, monsters, gods and goddesses, animals, humans, and symbols cover totem-pole-like structures. Rest for a while on the integrated benches around the wall and soak up the splendour. You can also see local plants and flowers throughout the garden.

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#21 – Old Town San Diego State Historical Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in San Diego

• Peer into the past;
• Period buildings;
• No admission charges;
• Varied activities.

Why it’s awesome: Old Town San Diego State Historical Park is one of the best places in San Diego for history lovers. Taking visitors on a trip back in time to the city’s early years, it features many restored historic buildings from the 1800s and a number of informative museums. Included on the National Register of Historic Places, the park was once at the heart of San Diego’s community before people abandoned the area in favour of the new town, AKA today’s downtown. It is preserved as it was during the Mexican and early American eras. There is no charge to enter the historical park and all of the museums are free to visit too.

What to do there: Stroll around Old Town San Diego State Historical Park and see the various historic buildings that were once central to the local community. Buildings include residential homes, the city’s first newspaper office, a school, and a blacksmith’s shop. Delve deeper into the past in the varied museums, which include Colorado House (once a hotel), San Diego Union Museum, and Seeley Stables with its historic carriages and wagons. You can also take a guided tour for greater insights. Pop into the shops to find an array of goods and to see craftspeople at work. There’s a good selection of places to stop for a tasty meal, with Mexican restaurants especially prevalent.

Get insured for your trip to San Diego!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in San Diego

Is San Diego worth visiting?

If you’re a fan of long sandy beaches and great warm and sunny weather all throughout the year, then San Diego is definitely worth visiting. On top of that, there are endless cool places to visit as well!

What are the best places to visit in San Diego for families?

Families absolutely love these places in San Diego: – Balboa Park – Sunset Cliffs Natural Park – San Diego Zoo

Are there any places in San Diego that are free to visit?

Check out these free places to visit in San Diego: – La Jolla – Point Loma – Old Town San Diego State Historical Park

What are the coolest places to visit in San Diego?

San Diego is full of cool places to visit but these ones are the best: – USS Midway Museum – Petco Park – Mission Beach

There are many San Diego vacation ideas, with something for all ages and interests. Spend a few hours at Pacific Beach and Coronado Beach, climb Mount Soledad, follow Annie’s Canyon Trail, visit the Mormon Battalion Historic Site, escape the crowds at Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve, and explore the ocean deep at Birch Aquarium. Cross the suspension bridge in Banker’s Hill and take a stick to hit the unusual musical bridge at 25 th street.

When it comes to museums, San Diego has many to choose between. In addition to the ones already mentioned, others to add to your San Diego itinerary include Whaley House Museum, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, the Sheriff’s Museum, the Chinese Historical Society and Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, and the Fleet Science Centre.

In need of some time out and quiet time? Check out the Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage and Meditation Gardens. Have fun at Liberty Station, watch a performance at the Old Globe Theatre, and take trips to the Anza-Borrego Desert, Disneyland, and the wine region of the Temecula Valley.

There are so many fabulous places to visit in San Diego! Have a fantastic trip!

Art Patterson

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The 38 Essential Restaurants in San Diego

San Diego’s essential eateries across an array of cuisines, neighborhoods, and price points 

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Presenting San Diego’s updated Eater 38, your answer to any question that begins, “Can you recommend a restaurant?”

This standout group of 38 must-try restaurants reflects the best of our diverse dining culture and is meant to cover the city of San Diego and beyond while spanning a range of price points and neighborhoods. Restaurants on this list must be open for six months to qualify for consideration. For buzz on newer restaurants, check out our monthly Eater heatmap.

With every update, Eater San Diego adds a few restaurants that have become newly eligible or stepped up their game. As such, a few restaurants are retired from the map each quarter — not necessarily forever — to make room.

If your favorite restaurant isn’t on the list, send us a note nominating it for inclusion; we’ll be posting updated versions of the Eater 38 map throughout the year.

For all the latest San Diego dining intel, subscribe to Eater San Diego’s newsletter.

Note: Restaurants on this map are listed geographically.

Wrench and Rodent

This Oceanside sushi spot showcases chef Davin Waite’s unique skills with foraging and far-out flavor innovations. Though his approach is broad enough to include both traditional sushi and unconventional rolls paired with creative sauces, Waite is uncompromising in his care for ingredients.

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Jeune et Jolie

Chic to the max, the second Carlsbad restaurant from the team behind Campfire applies a SoCal twist to modern French fare. An enviable open kitchen is its sparkling stage, turning out a sophisticated but not-at-all stuffy four-course menu from executive chef Eric Bost and chef de cuisine Jacob Ruck, Jeune et Jolie is one of a handful of local establishments to have earned a Michelin star.

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Jeune et Jolie’s casual sibling is a Carlsbad charmer where wood-fired cookery and creative cocktails are center-stage. Smoked and grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables are showcased in a stylishly rustic dining room that’s equally suited for date night or family dinners.

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Though initially opened as a stopgap while chef Andrew Bachelier (Jeune et Jolie, Cucina Enoteca) works towards launching his larger restaurant partnership with pro skater Tony Hawk, it’s safe to say that this North County cafe, Eater’s 2023 winner for neighborhood restaurant of the year, has already become a beloved fixture in Leucadia. Diners have fully embraced Manna’s feel-good menu which includes comforting savory porridge, craveable salads, and other creative seasonal dishes.

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Market Restaurant & Bar

Chef Carl Schroeder, whose extensive culinary experience includes working with famed chefs Michael Mina and Bradley Ogden, remains faithful to a hyper-seasonal cooking style inspired by local farms, including the nearby Alice Waters-endorsed Chino Farm. The restaurant offers a three-course tasting menu in the dining room while a la carte service is available in the bar and lounge.

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Addison Restaurant

San Diego’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant, Addison is guided by longtime executive chef/director William Bradley, whose team leads diners through elaborate nine-course chef’s tasting dinners of contemporary California cuisine that revolves around the seasons.

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A.R. Valentien

The Lodge at Torrey Pines’s signature restaurant transcends hotel dining by a mile. Executive chef Kelli Crosson oversees the restaurant’s impeccably-sourced farm-to-table cooking. Housemade terrines, Liberty Duck breast and leg confit, and beets with pistachio butter are all on the menu, served in a warm and welcoming Craftsman-style dining room.

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George's At The Cove

Celebrating its milestone 40th anniversary, this La Jolla institution is comprised of three levels that each boast ocean views. Level2 serves lunch and dinner with a focus on craft cocktails while the breezy rooftop Ocean Terrace is a coveted perch from which to enjoy a menu of coastal cuisine from chef and partner Trey Foshee, executive chef Masa Kojima, and pastry chef Aly Lyng.

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Nine-Ten Restaurant and Bar

San Diego has several stellar hotel restaurants and this is one of them. The La Jolla spot, located in the Grande Colonial Hotel, is run by longtime executive chef, Jason Knibb, who is admired by the food-obsessed and other local chefs for his precise and never pretentious California cuisine. Check out his signature dish, the Jamaican jerk pork belly.

Yakitori Hino

Japanese food is one of San Diego’s strong suits and this modest and unassuming Kearny Mesa spot is an under-the-radar industry favorite. Find expertly grilled yakitori, from crispy-edged chicken wings to lusciously tender meatballs, along with a compelling selection of izakaya dishes, including takowasa (raw octopus with wasabi) and fried smelt.

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The only local restaurant to earn a star in the 2023 Michelin Guide California, this Oceanside restaurant helmed by chef Roberto Alcocer, who already ran the acclaimed Malva restaurant in Valle de Guadalupe, is giving diners a taste of the culinary thrills that can be found in its namesake region.

Wayfarer Bread & Pastry

When it set up shop in the quiet coastal community of Bird Rock in 2018, Wayfarer brought the beach its first real-deal bakery. Established by owner and master baker Crystal White, the takeout-only spot has become a destination for its flaky pastries sweetened with local produce and sturdy-crusted loaves made from heirloom grains.

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The Fishery

For a city of its size, San Diego has too few restaurants dedicated to showcasing local seafood and the bounty of the West Coast. This family-run Pacific Beach institution, with newly installed chef Elliot Townsend (Long Story Short, Cowboy Star), is also a seafood distributor and retail market, ensuring that the freshest catch lands on the menu.

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Soichi Sushi

Celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2024, this gracious family-run Adams Avenue sushi bar boasts a Michelin star and offers an eight-course omakase experience from master sushi chef Sochi Kadoya that includes delicately-prepared appetizers, nigiri, and sashimi offered alongside a well-curated sake selection.

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This neighborhood bistro, run by a veteran of the city’s best French restaurants, has charm for days. Its relaxed bar and comfortable dining room are a fine setting for French classics that include made-to-order, sky-high souffles.

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Wolf in the woods.

Nestled amidst the Craftsman-style homes of Mission Hills is this snug wine bar and cafe that’s become a neighborhood favorite and popular date-night spot. Its European bistro feel is punctuated with New Mexican artwork, which informs the tapas-style menu from executive chef Carmine Lopez that includes sweet corn and piñon soup, pork braised with New Mexican spices, and Hatch chile chocolate pot de creme.

Honored with Michelin Plate status, the sophomore entry from the chefs behind Trust Restaurant, is a staple in Mission Hills. With a relaxed cocktail bar, upscale dining room, and chef’s counter perch it offers a range of dining experiences.

Sushi Tadokoro

Well-crafted nigiri sushi is one of the attractions at this Michelin-starred Old Town restaurant, which tops many sushi aficionados’ lists for its adherence to traditional Japanese style and technique. The setting is spare; all of the fireworks are reserved for what’s on the plate.

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Tribute Pizza

Though it was initially built to honor some of the world’s great pizzerias, this North Park restaurant has earned respect for its own menu creations, from homemade bread and farmer’s market-sourced vegetable plates to its “Neo-Neapolitan” pies that ranges from creatively-topped weekly specials and classic pies.

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Mabel's Gone Fishing

This North Park restaurant, which serves up seasonal seafood and mixes stellar gin and tonics, has racked up accolades that include being named to Eater’s list of the best new restaurants in America and earning Michelin Bib Gourmand status. Building on the goodwill garnered by the Rose, their South Park wine bar, the team has established another community-minded space that’s easy to love.

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Trust Restaurant

Overseen by chef Brad Wise, this stylish independent restaurant, an Eater Award winner, has both sustained its success over the years and spawned a rapidly-growing hospitality group. With a dinner menu highlighted by pasta and wood-grilled proteins, it also offers a can’t-miss brunch.

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Cori Pastificio Trattoria

This cozy Italian restaurant from Accursio Lota celebrates the popular chef’s Sicilian heritage and has been well-received by locals as well as the international culinary community. Located in North Park, it serves handmade pasta, including some made with ancient grains, and entrees like pistachio-crusted lamb chops and eggplant parmigiana.

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CUCINA Urbana

This Bankers Hill restaurant and wine shop, run by one of San Diego’s most prominent hospitality groups, has enjoyed enduring popularity due to its consistently-good contemporary Italian cuisine that includes pasta, pizzas, and starters like fried squash blossoms and seasonal starters.

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Juniper & Ivy

Continuing to serve as one of the anchors of Little Italy’s ever-growing restaurant scene, this foundational farm-to-table restaurant is in a transition period, being overseen by chef emeritus Jon Sloan as it searches for a replacement for longtime executive chef Anthony Wells.

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Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood is still a stunning spot to see -and -be -seen in, with its California-meets-Mediterranean menu of grilled meats, pastas, and wood-fired pizza that keeps diners coming back.

Kettner Exchange

An expansive rooftop patio is part of the draw at this bi-level restaurant that’s a fixture on the nightlife scene but was also recognized with Michelin Bib Gourmand status in 2021 for executive chef Brian Redzikowski’s consistently tasty and thoughtful food that inflected with Asian ingredients and techniques.

Born and Raised

This Little Italy steakhouse has firmly established its classic status. Thrill to Caesar salads, omelets, and steak tartare made tableside followed by luxurious cuts of dry aged beef cut to order, prized Wagyu beef grilled on Japanese charcoal, and retro hits like Tournedos Rossini and steak Diane. 

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Civico 1845

This warmly-welcoming restaurant, one of the anchors of Little Italy’s food scene, offers a menu of Southern Italian seafood dishes made with local ingredients as well as modern innovations on Italian classics using vegan and gluten-free ingredients.

Morning Glory

Awarded Bib Gourmand status by the Michelin Guide, this perenially popular brunch spot stands out by serving an internationally-inspired breakfast menu (think egg fried rice and breakfast carbonara) and commendable cocktails in a pink-hued, fantastical setting.

Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar

Thrilling diners with Baja-style plates of fresh seafood, from platters of chocolate clams to standout dishes like shrimp aguachile en salsa verde, tuna and scallop tostadas dressed with guajillo chile mayo and ponzu, and tiradito mixto in XO sauce, this stylish spot along Little Italy’s main thoroughfare also serves seafood-friendly drinks like sake, champagne, and regional Mexican wine.

This South Park rebel makes its mark with the rarely-seen pairing of top-notch craft cocktails with a creative and comforting vegan menu. Add a dose of seriously eye-catching design and you’ve got a winner.

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Buona Forchetta

With outposts throughout San Diego, the flagship location of this friendly, family-owned Italian restaurant remains the most beloved. Regulars rave about the pizzas that emerge from its signature gold-tiled ovens as well as the pastas; both are also available gluten-free.

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Kingfisher continues to be one of the city’s most dynamic restaurants, bringing destination dining from executive chef David Sim and team to the undersung neighborhood of Golden Hill with a menu that elegantly modernizes classic Vietnamese dishes while highlighting San Diego treasures like Chino Farm. Don’t miss the dry-aged duck, available in limited quantities, or the fantastically creative cocktails.

Executive chef Tara Monsod, a 2024 James Beard Award finalist for Best Chef: California, is cooking the restaurant’s most compelling menu to date. Earning Michelin Plate honors for the restaurant, Monsod’s cuisine brings a new perspective to classics like lumpia and kare kare by showcasing Filipino flavors and ingredients on an opulent stage.

Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop

This enduring East Village steakhouse serves contemporary American cuisine from longtime chef Victor H. Jimenez. The best seat might be at the chef’s counter, where you can watch the kitchen while enjoying a multi-course meal.

Still one of the city’s most sought-after reservations, Callie has become an essential contributor to San Diego’s restaurant culture. Chef Travis Swikard’s compelling California-Mediterranean cuisine, punctuated by perfect pasta and peak seafood, lets local ingredients shine, making the East Village food scene a whole lot brighter.

Sovereign Modern Thai Cuisine

This East Village restaurant is commendable for its efforts to introduce San Diegans to lesser-seen Thai dishes, particularly the vibrant, spicy, and pungent dishes of the northeastern Isaan region that incorporate local produce and seafood. Standouts include chive cakes, spicy pork sausage, curry noodles with duck confit, Thai-style fried chicken, and fried local fish with spicy herb salad.

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Serea Coastal Cuisine

The iconic Hotel del Coronado’s anchor restaurant is also a showcase for the region’s best seafood. Chef JoJo Ruiz (Lionfish, Ironside) has a long history of supporting local fishermen, whose fresh catch is cooked whole and served tableside just steps from the beach.

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Just across the bridge and a world away

Where main street meets bare feet.

Situated just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado is consistently voted best beach in the U.S. by Dr. Beach. With gentle surf, sparkling wide-sand beaches, charming main street and great hotels, including the famous Hotel del Coronado, this island paradise is perfect for a family vacation or romantic getaway.

Coronado's coastline offers wide sandy beaches with sparkling sand, courtesy of the mineral Mica, that draw visitors from around the world. With its elegant gardens, old-world mansions, quaint shops, and oceanfront dining with spectacular sunset views, no wonder this charmed small town has been dubbed "The Crown City," as Coronado means "the crowned one" in Spanish.

Spend the day relaxing on the beach or rent a bike and tour the island via Coronado's beachfront boardwalk. Take a stroll down Orange Avenue, Coronado's main artery, which is lined with shops, restaurants, galleries, theaters and the Coronado Museum of History & Art . At the other end of the island, Coronado's Ferry Landing offers a collection of more than 20 shops, art galleries and restaurants boasting stunning views of San Diego's downtown skyline. Flagship Cruises also offers low cost ferry service from the landing across the bay to Seaport Village on the edge of downtown.

Beyond the beach, Coronado features countless outdoor recreational pursuits including sailing, stand-up paddling, surfing, kayaking, and Venetian gondola cruises. There's also top-rate golf on Coronado's Public Golf Course, described as "a gem I consider the best value in the United States" by Golf Digest writer Matt Ginella. Locals and visitors alike also love the popular Coronado Flower Show, held each spring since 1922.

And no trip to Coronado would be complete without a visit to the legendary Hotel del Coronado . Built in 1888 and designated a National Historic Landmark, the hotel has a fascinating and colorful past, which includes presidents and princes, socialites and scandals, ghosts and glamorous celebrities. It's also widely believed to have been the inspiration for the Emerald City in L. Frank Baum's "Wizard of Oz" as the author spent many winters at the oceanfront hotel.

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Getting to coronado.

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Coronado transportation, 7 sunny outings on coronado, discover coronado's long sandy beaches the literally sparkle.

Coronado is the quintessential San Diego postcard experience and a great place for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family beach vacation.

Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom!

The Port of San Diego Big Bay Boom July 4th Fireworks Show is back, promising another spectacular display over San Diego Bay. Fireworks will be discharged simultaneously from barges placed strategically around the Bay off Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Embarcadero North, Marina District and Coronado Ferry Landing. The impeccably choreographed display will last approximately 18 minutes.

Come down to the bay and enjoy the biggest fireworks show in San Diego!

Bike the Bay

San Diego's finest annual cycling event across the Coronado Bridge and around the bay!

Ride the bridge, Bike the Bay for the 17th annual ride on Sunday, August 25, 2024! Cruise around San Diego Bay and enjoy your only opportunity to ride across the San Diego Coronado Bay Bridge. This non-competitive community bike ride is for riders of all abilities and will take you on a scenic, and primarily flat ride, around the San Diego Bay via the Bayshore Bikeway. Along the way, riders will travel through the surrounding cities of Coronado, Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, and National City before finishing back at the start/finish line at Embarcadero Marina Park in downtown San Diego.

Crown City Classic 4th of July Race

We are excited to announce the 51st year running of the Crown City Classic 12K & 5K Run along the Coronado Bay!

FOOD TRUCK THURSDAYS

Join us at The Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa and experience a culinary extravaganza featuring a diverse array of food trucks from across San Diego. Indulge in a variety of eats while enjoying the lively

atmosphere and fun-filled vibes!

Thursdays | 5pm -8 pm Skyline Terrace Music by DJ Teelynn

Discover Coronado's Long Sandy Beaches the Literally Sparkle

Coronado on instagram, deals just for you, save 20% on an amazing scavenger hunt adventure.

Turn San Diego's Old Town or Balboa Park into a giant game board with this fun Scavenger Hunt Adventure. Combine the excitement of the Amazing Race with a three-hour city tour. Guided from any smart...

Wine Tours $8 OFF each ticket Sept and Oct. Crush!

Can you smell it? Can you see it? Can you feel the Crush nearing? Ah, the sweet scent of cabernet grapes in the air make it hard not to stop and smell the rosé. As summer meets fall, the grapes...

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7 places to eat, drink, shop and relax in kensington.

Quaint and neighborly are words that come to mind for Kensington, a vibrant community northeast of downtown San Diego. While this pocket of the city is mostly known to locals, visitors will find some serious eats, drinks and other charms in the historic neighborhood.

Oceanside Restaurants, Activities & Events

Located at the northernmost end of San Diego’s coastline, Oceanside is home to some of Southern California’s widest beaches, historical landmarks and a distinct Southern California surf culture.

Discover the Convoy District

Get ready to revel in the culinary and cultural wonders of this diverse and dynamic Kearny Mesa neighborhood, which boasts one of the largest pan-Asian business districts in the nation and has been officially designated the Convoy Asian Cultural District. Here's your guide to the community's top restaurants, shopping options and more!

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11 Incredible Places for Whale Watching in California

Take a trip to these top whale-watching destinations to spot everything from orcas and blue whales to humpbacks and gray whales.

January 19, 2024

Each year, thousands of gray whales embark on a grand 6,000-mile journey from Alaska to Mexico—and you can have front-row seats to a part of it, either on their way to Mexico or back. The gray whales aren’t alone on these travels, either. Whale watching in California also entails sightings of humpbacks, dolphins, blue whales, orcas, and other exciting sea creatures migrating south. So, grab your binoculars and get ready for an incredible road trip ; whale-watching season in California is officially right around the corner.

When is whale-watching season in California?

You’ll experience cool sightings of marine life anytime you decide to visit the destinations on this list. But for an almost guaranteed sighting of whales, you should know the optimal times to go.

Whale watching season in Southern California is optimal from January through April if you’re interested in seeing gray whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and sea lions. If you’d rather see blue and finback whales, head to the SoCal coast from May to September.

Whale-watching season in Northern California also differs for different species. If you want to see gray whales and orcas, plan your trip between December and May. Humpbacks are more commonly seen from May through November. Your best chances of seeing blue whales are between July and October.

Another cool way to spot these magnificent creatures is to participate in California whale-watching festivals that take place every year. The Monterey Whalefest and the Dana Point Festival of Whales are a few of the state's most popular annual whale-watching events.

Where to go whale watching in Northern California

1. point lobos state national reserve.

Everyone knows that whale watching in Monterey is as good as it gets—and Point Lobos State National Reserve is further proof as to why. Often visited for whale watching in California , this can’t-miss state park boasts breathtaking beauty, fascinating wildlife, great hiking trails, and a team of friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who help you have the best experience possible. 

2. Moss Landing

Also in Monterey County, Moss Landing is another top spot for whale watching in California. During peak season, close to 7,000 whales swim by the waters of Monterey Bay, attracting year-round whale-watching cruises. These tours are led by experienced captains who are delighted to introduce visitors to the fascinating and beautiful creatures who call the California waters home.

Moss Landing whale-watching tours also entail sightings of harbor seals, sea lions, dolphins, elephant seals, and other cool sea creatures. Sea Goddess Whale Watch and Blue Ocean Whale Watch are two awesome companies organizing tours that’ll definitely make your whale-watching trip a memorable experience.

3. Half Moon Bay

Whale watching in Half Moon Bay is another great experience if you don’t want to leave the shore. This NorCal destination is packed with beautiful trails, panoramic views, and great recreational activities for those looking for a quick escape from the city. Plan your next getaway to Half Moon Bay on a calm day, so you can get a glimpse of the whales from the waters as clearly as possible. Once you get there, head to Pigeon Point Light Station State Historic Park for prime viewing seats to the migration. Don’t forget to take your camera with you—you’ll snap some truly awesome pics.

If you’d like to get up closer to the whales, Oceanic Society provides awesome half-day tours from January through April that’ll do just that. You’ll also be supporting ocean conservation by taking part in this trip, as Oceanic Society is a nonprofit that aims to build a healthier environment for these magnificent sea creatures.

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4. Salt Point State Park

Salt Point State Park overlooks the Salt Point State Marine Conservation Area —a superb spot for whale watching in California. With a network of hiking trails running parallel to the Pacific Ocean and panoramic views around every turn, it’s harder not to spot whales while traveling here during the right season. A great trail to check out for whale watching is the three-mile Salt Point Trail, an easy hike with rewarding vistas.

Looking to take your whale watching trip up a notch? Turn your half-day adventure in Sonoma into a weekend getaway, and reserve a campsite in advance to stay overnight at one of the park’s campgrounds. No need to thank us later.

5. Bodega Bay

While gray whales are most easily seen in late winter and spring on their way north, they can be seen year-round along the Sonoma Coast. Plan a   getaway to Bodega Bay and take your hiking shoes with you —this is going to be an active adventure. The 1.7-mile Bodega Head Trail, which borders the edge of the peninsula, offers top-notch views of Sonoma Coast’s rugged beauty. 

After getting your desired dose of whale watching in Northern California, you can take advantage of the 360-degree views and sit down for a picnic near the water, taking in the beautiful NorCal sunset while listening to the relaxing sounds of the crashing waves.

6. West Cliff Drive

If you’re keener on making whale watching in California a quick drive-by activity, then this is the spot for you. West Cliff Drive is a picturesque route that parallels the Santa Cruz coast. Park your car, and walk or bike along this short trail to see gray whales and dolphins swimming by without having to get out on the water. This is also a great spot to go tide pooling, watch surfers (or surf yourself), and spend a relaxing day by the beach in Northern California.

If you have a bit of extra time to spare, you won’t regret stopping by the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum , in the Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse nearby. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of surfing and how it came to California from Hawaii.

Top spots for whale watching in Southern California

7. channel islands.

Experience whale watching in Southern California at its finest by heading to the scenic Channel Islands . Sign up for a whale-watching cruise that takes you from Ventura to the string of islands, and it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll have an eventful ride. Out of the 7 8 species of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in the world, 29 have been spotted in the waters near the Channel Islands, and you too can be witness to them when you visit from December through April.

Channel Islands Whale Watching and Island Packers are two companies that organize great whale-watching trips in and around the Channel Islands area. After wrapping up whale watching in Ventura, take advantage of the land of sea, sand, and surf by exploring the offshore areas of this sunny SoCal destination.

8. Cabrillo National Monument

We are in the midst of the perfect time to go gray whale watching in San Diego. Head to the western overlooks of Cabrillo National Monument, and you’ll witness incredible panoramas from the park’s Whale Overlook and Old Point Loma Lighthouse —some of the best viewing spots along the San Diego coastline. If you’ve forgotten your handy binoculars at home, the visitor center has a limited number that you can borrow during whale-watching season.

After your spectacular whale-watching trip, head to downtown San Diego for a much-deserved shopping and eating break, then end your day at the breathtaking Balboa Park .

9. Dana Point

W hale watching in Dana Point is more than spectacular—it’s world-class. The coastal town is home to one of the greatest concentrations of dolphins and blue whales in the world. By booking a whale-watching cruise from Dana Point Harbor, you’ll be able to see gray whales and other amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat just minutes away from shore. 

Embark on your journey with Ocean Institute or Captain Dave’s , and be prepared to ooh and ahh your way throughout the day as you get an up-close look at the traveling whales.

10. Long Beach

For warmer-weather whale watching in California, go to Long Beach in October, which is an optimal time to see migrating whales and other marine life. W hale watching in Long Beach exposes you to majestic sights of Pacific gray whales, fin whales, humpback whales, orcas, blue whales, and more. 

Book your trip with Harbor Breeze Cruises , a company that’s been organizing whale-watching tours for decades, and you’ll have a grand time. The three-hour tours run daily from Rainbow Harbor and include tour guides on board, so you can have a fun, educational, and memorable whale-watching experience in SoCal.

11. Newport Beach

Are you visiting SoCal and looking for an oceanic adventure of a lifetime? Whether by land or sea, whale watching in Newport Beach is one of the top activities you can do on your trip. View giant blue whales during the summer and fall and gray whales in the winter and spring. Whenever you visit, make sure you have a camera on hand—you’ll want to snap a lot of pics.

There are numerous companies organizing whale-watching trips in Southern California from Newport Beach. Newport Landing Whale Watching and Davey’s Locker are both very well rated and organize guided daily trips almost year-round.

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10 best places to enjoy cherry blossoms in the US in spring 2024

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

The sights of Washington, DC, are at their most beautiful during the National Cherry Blossom Festival every March © Orhan Cam / Shutterstock

You don’t have to fly all the way to Japan to see splendid cherry blossoms. 

With the emergence of their fluffy, delicate flowers, blossoming cherry trees are a sign that spring is well and truly here.

All over the USA , people celebrate their bloom with annual festivals, or just simply get outside to special spots and take in the cherries’ natural beauty. As another blooming season approaches, here are the ten best places to see cherry blossoms – and when to see them – in 2024.

1. The National Mall, Washington, DC

When to experience it in 2024: follow the National Park Service's Bloom Watch  for their peak bloom announcement on February 29.

It’s estimated that more than 1.5 million visitors descend upon the US capital to gaze at the 3000-plus trees during the three-week-long National Cherry Blossom Festival   (March 20–April 14). The festival started with the planting of two trees gifted by Tokyo in DC’s West Potomac Park in March 1912. More than 100 years later, the cherry trees are clustered around the picturesque  Tidal Basin reservoir, and the festival has grown to include events throughout the city. Look for restaurants, bars and neighborhoods all over the District getting in the spirit with special offerings.

2. Missouri Botanical Garden, St Louis

When to experience it in 2024: Last two weeks of March through the first week of April.

The Missouri Botanical Garden  contains more than 100 varieties of blossoming cherry trees, with 20 specimens propagated from cuttings from the trees gifted to Washington, DC, in 1912. You can find many of these varieties in the Japanese Garden  (a spot known in Japanese as Seiwa-en ), while such less-familiar examples as the Mt Fuji cherry “Shirotae” bloom at the George Washington Carver Garden . This  St Louis venue’s “Sake and Sakura” event on April 5 celebrates the trees’ sheer beauty through Japanese food and drink, and also provides a chance to see the garden’s enchanting Teahouse Island.  

3. Balboa Park’s Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego, California

When to experience it in 2024: The Cherry Blossom Festival taking place from March 7–10.

San Diego has not only beaches and rugged coastline, but plenty of cherry blossoms, too. The star specimens can be found in Balboa Park ’s Japanese Friendship Garden . In mid-March, the garden’s annual Cherry Blossom Week offers a variety of programs involving local merchants, performances, a children’s arts-and-crafts area, a beer and sake garden, and a tea garden at the Inamori Pavilion .

4. The Cumberland River Greenway, Nashville, Tennessee

When to experience it in 2024: the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival is on April 13.

Music City has its own strings of cherry blossoms, thanks to a tree-planting project in parks and neighborhoods led by government officials and the Japan-America Society of Tennessee. During the Nashville Cherry Blossom Festival , a Cherry Blossom Walk meanders a 2.5-mile course through these areas, following the Cumberland River Greenway after beginning (then ending) at Nashville Public Square. The one-day festival in April celebrates both spring and Japanese culture with programming on the front lawn of the Metro Courthouse at Public Square Park. Expect traditional and contemporary Japanese music and dance, martial-arts demonstrations, a “Pups in Pink Parade” and a variety of Japanese cuisine, including Japanese-inspired festival menus.

5. Central City Park, Macon, Georgia

When to experience it in 2024: The Macon Georgia International Cherry Blossom Festival is over ten days from March 15–24.

Held at Central City Park, the Macon Georgia International Cherry Blossom Festival recognizes the over 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees that give this Georgia town a pinkish hue each spring. The festival takes place in part thanks to William A Fickling Sr, a local realtor who was pleased to discover that the first Yoshino cherry tree in Macon was planted on his estate in 1949. Inspired, he began to propagate and provide Yoshinos within the Macon community. Today, this ten-day festival includes standout events such as the “Little Mr and Miss Cherry Blossom” pageant, cherry blossom car painting, a dog show, hot-air balloon rides, and a cherry blossom ball. You can also follow Macon’s Cherry Blossom Trail, starting from the downtown Visitor Center. If you can't get to Macon for the festival, you can watch the trees bloom on their live BloomCam .

6. Wooster Square, New Haven, Connecticut

When to experience it in 2024: the Cherry Blossom Festival will be held on April 14.

New Haven  is the site of an annual Cherry Blossom Festival , which happens every April to welcome the square’s Yoshino Japanese cherry blossoms. The trees were placed here in 1973; in the decades since, the one-day festival has grown to incorporate music, a family and children’s activity area, food trucks, and more.

7. Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

When to experience it in 2024: the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival is April 13–14. 

Planted in 1926 as a gift from the people of Japan, a series of sakura flowering cherry trees transform Fairmount Park Horticulture Center each year – and take center stage at the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival of Greater Philadelphia . In the past this mid-April weekend event has incorporated origami sessions, sushi-making classes and drumming performances, and Cherry Blossom 5K and 10K races. This year the schedule will be announced as the festival dates get closer. 

8. Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Dallas, Texas

When to experience it in 2024: Dallas Blooms runs February 24–April 8

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden ’s 150 cherry-blossom trees get their moment during Dallas Blooms , a six-week celebration from late February through early April. This year’s theme of “A Picture's Worth a Thousand Words” will see the festival bringing in larger-than-life living selfie walls, adding a fun photo opportunity to the overall Dallas Blooms experience.

9. Brooklyn Botanic Garden, New York

When to experience it in 2024: The park advises to follow the Cherrywatch map for updates on blooms from mid-March.

To help track the progress of the famed cherry blossoms at New York City ’s  Brooklyn Botanic Garden  (BBG), the garden’s website has a “ Cherrywatch ” map that gets updated every day. (The blooms usually appear from mid-March to late April.) With 26 species and cultivars in the BBG’s Flowering Cherry Collection, these trees can be found throughout the garden’s 52 acres, especially in the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the Cherry Cultivars Area, the Cherry Esplanade and the Cherry Walk. To fête the season, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden puts on the popular Sakura Matsuri, a weekend festival held each spring that not only celebrates these blossoms but also honors Japanese culture through music, dance, food and art.

10. Japanese Garden at Delaware Park, Buffalo, New York

When to experience it in 2024: the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival takes place over two days from April 27–28.

A gift from its sister city of Kanazawa , the Japanese Garden at Delaware Park in Buffalo has cherry blossoms that come out later than the ones found in DC – yet burst just as boldly during the Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival . Along with self-guided walks, in the past events have included drum demonstrations, presentations on Japanese culture at the Buffalo History Museum and pink boat rides on the park’s Mirror Lake. Keep checking in with the festival website for this year's event lineup as dates get closer.

This article was first published Feb 12, 2020 and updated Feb 16, 2024.

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California Wildflowers 2024 – Where to See the Southern California Superbloom

February 7, 2024 By: Noreen Kompanik This article may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you buy through our links.

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There’s just something about Mother Nature…and her magnificent California wildflowers. American naturalist John Burroughs once said, “ I go to nature to be soothed, and healed, and to have my senses put in order. ” How very true.

When is California Wildflower Season?

Spring is an absolutely beautiful time of the year in Southern California. A time when the air is filled with intoxicating fragrances from a host of newly blooming wildflowers in the desert and coastal areas from mid-February through May, peaking in mid-March.

However, this also depends a lot on the rainfall and temperatures of each season, and it is hard to pinpoint an exact time. I highly recommend watching the local news channels and checking for current updates on the local California wildflower bloom and then acting quickly once the buds start to bloom. With all the rain we’ve had in the last weeks, 2024 looks promising for a higher-than-average bloom, maybe even a superbloom. We’ll have to keep watching how the rain continues in Southern California this spring. In any case, it is still worth driving out there and soaking it all in and enjoying nature.

California Super Bloom

Each year, we botanical lovers hope and wish for a super bloom – when the landscape is covered with a rainbow explosion of colorful flowers. Super blooms happen when a delicate balance of sunshine, temperature, wind, and rainfall has occurred during the fall and winter months, resulting in an unusual number of wildflowers all blooming at the same time.  

These super blooms typically occur once every 10 to 15 years, but 2017, 2019, and 2023 proved that this phenomenon can happen at any time.

Whether we’ll witness another super bloom this spring remains to be seen, though a bit more rain would be helpful. But the only way for San Diegans and other So Cal residents to know is by planning a visit to these destinations – the absolute best places to see the California wildflowers in all their glory. 

Most Common California Wildflowers

• California Poppies
• Desert Lily
• Fleabane Daisy
• Dune Evening Primrose
• Desert Dandelions
• Matilija Poppies
• Bush Sunflower
• Joshua Tree
• Wild Morning Glory
• Mariposa Lily
• Monkey Flower
• Indian Paintbrush
• Western Goldenrod

Where to See the Southern California Superbloom

If you are planning a day trip to see the California Wildflowers, take a look at these Southern California Parks. Most are within a few hours from San Diego or Los Angeles. Make sure to get there early, not only to avoid the crowds but also to get the best light for your photos.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Address : 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs, CA 92004 Website

Located in Borrego Springs in Southern California’s Colorado Desert, Anza-Borrego is the largest of California’s state parks. And it’s also one of the early blooming first-responders of our desert regions with over a hundred varieties of wildflowers and blooming cacti.

This magnificent outdoor playground just two hours east of San Diego sports hiking trails, campgrounds, waterfalls, Desert Bighorn sheep, and of course, wildflower preserves. Though the bloom officially begins halfway through February, mid-March is typically the best time to see the spectacle of color carpeting the desert floor.

Best places to see a variety of desert blooms, including the bright pink-purplish sand verbena are along Henderson Canyon Road, surrounding the Visitor Center, and Borrego Palm Canyon. It’s simply magnificent.

Best Places to Stay in Anza Borrego State Park

Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve

Address : 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536 Website

Our official state flower is the California Poppy. And the best place to see thousands of these bright orange flowers is along the sloping hills of Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, a 3 ½-hour jaunt from San Diego.

Situated in northern Los Angeles County, this state reserve sits in the high western Mojave Desert, 3000- feet above sea level. This is California’s most consistent poppy-bearing land.

The intense blooming season occurs in late winter to early spring, mid-February through mid-May. Taking to the trails is the ideal way to see the poppies, and how amazing that one of its trails is actually wheelchair-accessible.

Where to Stay in Antelope Valley

Joshua Tree National Park

One of the West’s most picturesque national parks and one of our favorites, Joshua Tree encompasses 1,200 square miles within the Colorado and Mojave Deserts. Though the park is a popular year-round destination, spring’s colorful blossoms make a visit here a prized experience.

Wildflowers can begin blooming in the lower elevations in February and in higher elevations in March and April as daytime temperatures rise. The park showcases the most variations of splendid color ranging from reds and yellows to purples and blues– all splashed across a fascinating and picturesque landscape.

You’ll find stunning Mariposa and Desert Lilies, vibrant blue Canterbury Bells, Purple Mat, and bright Golden Poppies here, just to name a few. It’s more than worth the three-hour road trip from San Diego.

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree

Walker Canyon, Lake Elsinore

Just one-hour northeast of San Diego, Lake Elsinore is the largest freshwater lake in California. It also achieved notoriety as the epicenter of the 2019 and 2023 super blooms in its magnificent ecological reserve, Walker Canyon.

Last year, the reserve pretty much shut down. Visitors were not allowed to park along the side of the road or walk anywhere near the flower fields. There were too many visitors, which locked up the roads and made it impossible for locals to live life. Hopefully, it won’t come to it this year! But remember to always be mindful of how your behavior impacts the locals and the environment.

Multiple trails traversing this high-desert canyon in the Temescal Mountains of Riverside County lead to rolling hills blanketed with an explosion of rich colors from Golden California Poppies, Desert Sunflowers, and more, though the poppy fields reign supreme. Their season of wildflower blooms typically runs from early March through early April, depending on weather factors.

Where to Stay Near Walker Canyon – Lake Elsinore

Carrizo Plain National Monument

Nestled in California’s Central Valley, 100 miles northwest of Los Angeles, this monument area is all that remains of the immense grasslands that once covered this expansive picturesque valley. 

Rolling hills and meadows here as far as the eye can see are blanketed in larkspur, phacelia, daisies, and Mother Nature’s other jewels flashing orange, bright yellow, and purple hues. Peak bloom typically runs from late March through the end of April.

Where to stay near Carrizo Plains:

This wildflower region is in the middle of nowhere. There are some Airbnb’s in a small town called McKittrick, but if you want to stay in a larger town, you can either stay in Pismo Beach (81 miles) or Bakersfield (69 miles). I personally would choose Pismo Beach , a cute little Central California beach town with a fun vibe.

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Address : 18751 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Website

A 7,000-acre wilderness area in the San Joaquin Hills surrounding Laguna Beach , this picturesque park features coastal canyons, stunning ridgeline views, and the only natural lakes in Orange County. Streams running only in the spring are also a huge draw.

We also love that this pristine nature park transports visitors back to how coastal California appeared many years ago. Forty miles of trails meandering these untouched canyons lead hikers and bikers through oak and sycamore woodlands and onto elevated ridges with panoramic vistas.

Native plants and flowers such as wild hyacinth, morning glories, popcorn flowers, and southern sun cups are joined each spring by Baby Blue Eyes, vibrantly violet Johnny Jump-ups and Mariposa Lilies. Wildflower season typically peaks here the end of April.

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach

Point Dume State Beach

Address : Cliffside Dr &, Birdview Ave, Malibu, CA 90265 Website

Blankets of stunningly beautiful giant yellow and multi-hued Coreopsis, Bush Flowers, and California Poppies carpet the coastal headlands above Point Dume State Beach in Malibu each spring.

Sand Verbenas, Morning Glory, and Evening Primrose flourish along the trails. As an added bonus, visitors can view this glorious spectacle from the highlands and hills, all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

This promontory, located just west of Los Angeles, forms the northern end of Santa Monica Bay and is yet another magnificent California state park offering amazing picturesque hiking.  On a clear day you can see all the way to Santa Catalina Island. And how awesome that these vistas also offer the best viewings of whales and pods of playful dolphins.

Where to Stay near Point Dume State Beach

FAQs about Viewing Southern California Wildflowers:

Check each park’s website for updated information as local rainfall and weather conditions determine bloom.

Some parks do charge an entrance fee, some do not. Again, information can be found on each park’s website.

Best tips for visiting the parks during California Wildflower Season? 

Some of the best viewings of California wildflowers occur by following the recommended park pathways. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing as temperatures and weather conditions can vary dramatically throughout the day. And make sure to bring plenty of water.

Stay on the trails. They are there for a reason, and as the weather starts to warm up, our reptilian friends tend to become more active.

Keep an eye out for local critters. We are visiting in their habitat after all. While it’s highly unlikely they would cause harm, it’s always good practice to stay attentive.

Take lots of photos of course, but please don’t trample the flowers while you’re going for that perfect Instagram shot. And be considerate of others who are wanting to take their photos as well.

Remember to treat nature with the utmost respect. This means following California’s “Leave no trace” mantra. Take your trash when you leave. Also, don’t remove anything from the fields, and THAT includes picking the flowers. 

Enjoy the California wildflower season, and let us know which Southern California destination “wowed” you most.

California Wildflowers – Where to See the Southern California Superbloom was written by Noreen Kompanik for San Diego Explorer .

California Wildflowers: Where to See the Southern California Superbloom – Pin for Later:

Last Updated on February 7, 2024 by Maria Haase

About Noreen Kompanik

Noreen Kompanik is a freelance writer and registered nurse who fell in love with San Diego when her husband, a retired naval officer was first stationed here in 1999.

Despite other moves around the world, from that day forward she declared San Diego to be home, and in 2008 returned for good. She loves beaches, delectable food, good wine, traveling with family and friends, and introducing others to “Americas Finest City.”

Please take a look at her website: https://noreenkompanik.com/

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