10 Must-See San Diego Neighborhoods and How To Visit

With 1,500 acres (608 hectares) of pure Californian coastal scenery, the picturesque coastal neighborhood of La Jolla delivers some of the prettiest views you’ll find anywhere in the state. Nature lovers can explore the slot canyons of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, kayak through the La Jolla Sea Caves, or enjoy a picnic while soaking in the coastline. An impressive lineup of shops and restaurants dot the streets of La Jolla Village for foodies and culture-seekers, too.

Known for its craft beer scene, eclectic boutiques, and farm-to-table restaurants, North Park is a sliver of San Diego that offers trend seekers a unique blend of art and culture. Tap into the well-established craft beer scene on a guided tour showcasing the brewing process. Or, soak in the colorful neighborhood by charting the vibrant murals decorating the walls and buildings through the area and browsing the vintage shops on University Avenue.

Music lovers must visit Part-time Lover, a listening bar with a stash of buyable classic vinyl in the backroom. You’ll join plenty of savvy locals wherever you land, especially along the pedestrian-friendly streets. See this area and others on a San Diego day tour with a local guide.

Calling Balboa Park a park is like calling a treasure chest a box. Balboa Park is more than a green space: It's a trove of cultural richness, historical significance, and natural beauty. Spanning 1,200 acres (486 hectares), Balboa Park is a cultural oasis and must-see San Diego spot.

Tour the world-famous San Diego Zoo, which is home to hundreds of animals from around the world. Explore the park's many museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the San Diego Air and Space Museum. Or, gain a unique perspective of the entire park on a Go-Car tour or roll through on a Segway tour.

Related: 11 Under-the-Radar Museums in San Diego

A rare neighborhood that’s as lively during the day as it is in the evening, Little Italy charms tourists and locals with its pedestrian-friendly streets and European personality. Discover the local favorites serving the most authentic fare on an insider-guided tour and learn about the neighborhood's history. Then, stroll down to Waterfront Park, a San Diego attraction, for some people-watching. Once the sun sets, treat yourself to a cheese tray and glass of wine at one of the area’s many enotecas.

Nestled between the beach and the suburbs, Carlsbad Village is full of pleasant surprises. The overwhelming appeal of this San Diego neighborhood is its eclectic mix of charm and sophistication, both new and old. Stroll down the street and try to guess which French bistro boasts a Michelin star, explore the beaches and landmarks on an electric bike tour, or take a surf lesson for a full North County experience.

One of the most lively beach atmospheres you’ll find in San Diego, Pacific Beach offers a quintessential Southern California experience. The beachfront watering holes are filled with coeds, and bikini-clad roller skaters cruise the streets. The neighborhood has evolved in recent years, becoming a go-to spot for upscale seafood restaurants, from scratch bakeries and cocktail bars. Choose your own adventure and take a surf lesson, book a guided e-bike tour, or visit a surf shop. But whatever you do, don't miss the chance to watch the stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean from Crystal Pier.

After you explore downtown San Diego on your hop-on hop-off trolley tour, and visit key landmarks like USS Midway, Petco Park, and Seaport Village, cross the famous Coronado Bridge to explore the island neighborhood of Coronado. Home to the iconic red-roofed Hotel del Coronado, or as locals call it, Hotel Del, this sweet spot is the epitome of laid-back luxury. The downtown is only about a mile (1.6 kilometers) wide, so explore it on foot, or, for a more memorable experience, on a beach cruiser.

West of downtown San Diego sits Point Loma, a rugged peninsula known as “the Birthplace of San Diego” since it’s where Portuguese navigator Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo departed from Mexico and led an expedition for the Spanish crown. Visit the old Point Loma lighthouse, and then head to the Cabrillo National Monument for a bird's-eye view of the entire city. For nature lovers and families, the versatile neighborhood offers easily accessible tide pool areas, hikes to picturesque views for whale watching, and an opportunity to sightsee by land and sea.

Spend an afternoon at Liberty Public Market, where Maine lobster, craft beer, food trucks, and art exhibits effortlessly co-exist. The marketplace is centered in Liberty Station, a grand and imposing building. Then, take a barracks to brews tour or push your limits with a hoverboard lesson along the water.

One of the coolest things about San Diego is that along with being coined as America’s Finest City, it’s also a border town. Its proximity to Mexico is as much a part of its identity as its laid-back surfer vibe.

For years, Barrio Logan has been one of San Diego’s best-kept secrets. Sitting on the cusp of the Gaslamp Quarter at the bottom of Coronado Bridge, this neighborhood allows easy access to Seaport Village, Little Italy, and East Village. A highlight of Barrio Logan is Chicano Park, which contains one of the country's largest collections of outdoor murals and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2017. An art walk through the barrio offers tips on the best local fare and insight into the art found on every corner.

Located in downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighborhood known for its buzzy nightlife, trendy restaurants, and Victorian-era architecture. Take a stroll down Fifth Avenue and explore the many shops, art galleries, and rooftop bars. Indulge while you learn fun facts and insider tips about the city on a food and drink tour. Don't miss the chance to visit the famous Horton Plaza Park, either, a public square that hosts live events and concerts throughout the year.