San Diego embodies the quintessential Southern California lifestyle in many ways, with a relaxed, low-key vibe not typically found in cities of its size. Here you’ll find miles of sandy beaches and imposing headlands, fantastic restaurants and lively bars, and the oldest Spanish settlement in modern-day California, now simply known as San Diego’s Old Town. Many of the things to do in San Diego are centered around sprawling Balboa Park, from the anthropology-focused Museum of Man to the globally celebrated San Diego Zoo.
The beauty of San Diego is that you can visit year-round, as the weather is generally warm and the sun most likely will be shining. Its cool season is December–March, but even then temps are mild. Summer and school winter holidays bring more tourists, especially at the beaches. To avoid the tourist rush, visit in the “seasons” of spring or fall.
Downtown San Diego and surrounds have a convenient trolley system that connects to the city's bus system. That said, San Diego is a sprawling city, so the most convenient way to get around is usually via car. Rideshares like Uber and Lyft and e-scooter rentals are options, too. Public transport is available along the coast with the Coaster commuter rail service, with eight stops between San Diego to Oceanside.
Embrace the water when in San Diego. You can take a sailboat on the San Diego Bay, do stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or ride a sea bike in Mission Bay or La Jolla Cove, and surf just about anywhere along the coast. Remember, the water is chilly with average summer temps of about 67°F (19°C). Reward yourself with fish tacos and margaritas at one of the many San Diego restaurants that offer these SoCal specialties.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone PST (UTC -8) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 64 | Tours 424 | Reviews 25,577 |
A Viator account manager, California native, and La Jolla resident, Sasha can be found enjoying the sunshine, petting dogs, and seeking out the tastiest acai bowl San Diego has to offer.
rent a car. You’ll need a set of wheels to explore the multitude of diverse neighborhoods in San Diego and try the fish tacos each has to offer.
starts with a hike around Torrey Pines State Reserve, where you can enjoy views of the Pacific, the golf course, and the gliderport. Cap off your day with carbonara at Barbusa in Little Italy.
Coronado Island. Grab brunch at Parakeet Cafe and wander through the whimsical and historical Hotel del Coronado. Don’t be surprised if you witness a beachfront wedding or proposal!
walk along the Pacific Beach Boardwalk. Jump in a game of volleyball, take a dip, grab a bite, or simply people-watch. You’ll find a harmonious collection of locals, tourists, college students, roller skaters, and more.
most people would say a rooftop in the Gaslamp District, but try Point Loma Lighthouse in Cabrillo National Monument instead. Explore the tide pools below if you visit during low tide.
is assuming everyone surfs. On any given day, you’ll get your fair share of sandy folks out riding tubes, but it’s by no means a prerequisite for visiting or living in the area.
Soak up San Diego’s famous sunshine with a day swimming or surfing at one of the city’s many beaches. Get a dose of culture at a Balboa Park museums, take the kids to the San Diego Zoo, explore Spanish history in Old Town, or enjoy the diverse nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter.
...MorePopular day trips from San Diego include a ferry ride across San Diego Bay to charming Coronado Island or a drive to the posh seaside village of La Jolla. The historic missions of San Juan Capistrano and theme parks like LEGOLAND® and Disneyland® are also within easy driving distance.
...MoreSan Diego is best known for its world-class beaches and warm, sunny weather. The city is also home to a wealth of cultural attractions including Balboa Park, Old Town, the USS Midway Museum, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
...MoreSan Diego’s can’t-miss sights include beautiful Balboa Park, Ocean Beach, and harborside attractions like the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum. It’s also worth taking a ferry across the bay to historic Coronado Island, or planning a night of grown-up fun in the trendy Gaslamp Quarter.
...MoreYes. San Diego is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US for good reason. Miles of sandy beaches and nearly perfect weather year-round make it ideal for outdoor fun. There’s plenty of culture, too, from Old Town’s historic Spanish missions to the museums of Balboa Park.
...MoreMost San Diego locals love to be outdoors, so favorite activities include surfing at Mission Beach, tide pooling at Silver Strand, hiking at Torrey Pines in La Jolla, or soaking up the sun in Balboa Park. Find locally loved restaurants in Little Italy, North Park, or Liberty Station at Point Loma.
...MoreIf you have 3 days in San Diego, spend your first day learning about California history in Old Town and getting cultured at Balboa Park’s museums. You'll also want to dedicate a day to riding the ferry to Coronado Island or driving down the coast to La Jolla, followed by a night out in the Gaslamp Quarter. Finish with a day at the beach.
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