Things to do in San Diego

About San Diego, California - America’s finest city

Nestled along California’s sun-kissed southern coast, San Diego is a vibrant tapestry of beachside charm, cultural richness and laid-back energy. The city’s proximity to Mexico infuses its culture with vibrant flavors and cross-border flair, especially evident in its unbeatable tacos and thriving Latin music scene.

Whether you're hiking Torrey Pines' coastal cliffs, sailing through the harbor or simply strolling the Embarcadero with an ice cream in hand, San Diego is not just a destination, it is a lifestyle. One that invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and soak in the golden rhythm of the Pacific.

What is San Diego known for?

Known as "America’s Finest City," it effortlessly blends surf, science and sunshine. From the historic Gaslamp Quarter’s glowing nightlife to the tranquil gardens of Balboa Park which is home to world-class museums and the famed San Diego Zoo, the city offers something for every traveler.

Its stunning 70 mile stretch of coastline invites surfers, sunbathers and sunset chasers alike, while neighborhoods like La Jolla and North Park pulse with art, craft brews and a foodie scene that rivals any metropolitan hub. San Diego’s naval heritage adds a layer of intrigue and just across the bay, the aircraft carrier USS Midway stands as a floating museum of military history.

San Diego map

San Diego weather

San Diego has mild and comfortable weather all year round. Here is a month-by-month overview of its overall weather.

San Diego fun facts

Here are 10 fun and interesting facts about San Diego that highlight its history, grandeur and unique characteristics.

• Being the site of the first European settlement on the West Coast, established by Spanish missionaries in 1769, San Diego is also known as “Birthplace of California.”
• The city is home to San Diego Zoo which pioneered the concept of cageless exhibits.
• Fish tacos were introduced by San Diego to the US.
• Hotel del Coronado in this city is quite famous for being haunted by the ghost of Kate Morgan, a guest who mysteriously died there in 1892.
• The first frozen zoo was established in San Diego.
• You can surf at the beach, hike in the mountains and explore the desert; all in one day in San Diego County.
• Belmont Park, located in Mission Beach, is home to the Giant Dipper, a historic wooden roller coaster built in 1925.
• San Diego opened California’s first drive-in theater in 1947. Locals would watch films in Mission Valley from their cars long before it was retro-cool.
• The weather in this city barely changes. There are around 263 sunny days in a year.
• The Whaley House in Old Town is often called the most haunted house in the US.

Things to do in San Diego with kids and family

Looking for perfect family vacation in San Diego where everyone has a good time (and no one ends up whining in the car)? The city offers several activities for kids, toddlers, teenagers, parents and even grandparents, making it one of the best family-friendly cities in the US. Here is a list of all of the activities that you can do with your dear ones and make the most out of your trip.

• Explore wildlife and underwater wonders

  The best place to experience wildlife and underwater life is San Diego Zoo. Get the real life Jumanji experience where you can see polar bears do underwater flips, wave at sleepy koala bears, feed giraffes and watch rhinos stomp by. The zoo offers various types of safaris which are perfect for your mini explorers and other family members.

  To witness underwater life, go to SeaWorld which is also a theme park. It also offers various kinds of tours where you can get close encounters with beluga whales, dolphins, walruses, sea lions, turtles and penguins.

  Pro Tip:

  • If traveling with toddlers, you must visit Sesame Street Bay of Play which is a paradise for them.
  • If you are looking for less crowded places, go to Birch Aquarium at Scripps.

• Epic escapes: Where adventure meets fun

  Dive into adventures with your kids and family members at theme parks. One such happening place is Legoland which has colorful and custom built LEGO for children aged between 2 and 12 years. Additionally, there are lots of land and water rides which you can enjoy. This theme park hosts seasonal parties all year round suitable for all age groups which will definitely give you a truly remarkable experience.

  Pro Tip: If you visit Legoland during Halloween, do not miss its Brick-or-Treat Monster Party.

  Another amusement park worth exploring is Belmont Park which is iconic for its beachfront fun. It is eminent for Giant Dipper Roller Coaster that roars above the sea waves. It is the fourth oldest roller coaster in the world and a blend of vintage charms with modern thrills and will definitely give an adrenaline rush. From arcade games and mini golf to oceanfront dining and surf shops, there is something for every age and energy level at this place.

• Uncover the stories that shape San Diego

  Go back in time and witness the legacy of California at Old Town State Historic Park. It has a collection of 19th-century homes and businesses that provide a glimpse into colonial life in San Diego. The must visits are Casa de Estudilloand Junípero Serra Museum.

  Shop in the Old Town Market Place where you will find handcrafted trinkets, clothing and accessories traditional to the Mexican culture. For sweettooths, there is Cousin's Candy where you find a wide selection of old-fashioned and hard-to-find candies as well as homemade treats like salt water taffy, fudge and chocolates. Taste the authentic Mexican food when at this place. Food here is made of traditional herbs and local love.

  Pro Tip: Do take a ghost tour of legendary The Whaley House.

  Other places that you can visit to spark curiosity in you and your children are The New Children’s Museum which is situated at Downtown and Fleet Science Center which is located at Balboa Park.

  Pro Tip: Visit USS Midway Museum where your children can sit in fighter jets, crawl through engine rooms and even try out a flight simulator.

• Create memories with family-friendly adventures

  San Diego’s beaches offer a myriad of outdoor activities starting from children to adults. Visit La Jolla Cove where your children will love watching these ocean acrobats bark, nap and flop around. Go to Del Mar Beach and make your kids try their first boogie board. It is totally safe and child-friendly.

  Pro Tip: Do not forget to bring cameras to capture all happy memories.

Things to do in San Diego for couples

Looking for a romantic getaway? Here is a list of things that you can do together, relax and kindle your adventurous spirit.

• Take a hot air balloon ride

  Take a serene hot air balloon ride and soar above the golden coastline of Del Mare. Witness the sky transforming into a canvas of pinks and oranges and experience the tranquility that nature brings to you.

  Pro Tip: Propose to your partner in mid-air and make a beautiful memory of your life.

• Climb cliffs and watch sunsets

  If you love adventure and nature, go hiking on trails and be taken aback by the sunset views and panorama. Some of the best trails are Corte Madera, South Clevenger, Three Sisters, Cedar Creek, Iron Mountain, Goat Canyon via Montero Palms, Potato Chip Rock via Mount Woodson, The Sea Cave and Lawson Peak.

• Go cruising

  Join cruise tours or rent a private boat to witness beauty in San Diego in the middle of the ocean. Nature paints a beautiful picture of its skies on the shores that you can enjoy while in the company of your loved one. You can also indulge in offshore sportfishing and whale watching.

• Take a spa

  Escape stress and unwind by getting a luxury spa at resorts like The Catamaran or Fairmont Grand Del Mar. Rejuvenate your spirit and have a delicious meal in a cozy ambiance with your partner to feel fully energized.

• Wander in parks

  San Diego has an abundance of picturesque parks and gardens that are perfect for hand-in-hand walks and picnics. Places you can consider here are Ellen Browning Scripps Park, Kate Sessions Park, Liberty Station NTC Park, Centennial Park and Balboa Park.

• Catch a movie at the rooftop cinema club

  Enjoy films under the stars and comfortable seats with your partner at the Rooftop Cinema Club.

Things to do alone in San Diego

Planning a solo trip in San Diego? Here is a list of activities that you can do and have lifetime memories.

• Attend a concert

  San Diego hosts several concerts and festivals at different seasons to entertain its locals and tourists. As a solo traveler, you can attend these concerts and make new friends. To name a few, these are Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, SoCal TacoFest, Wonderfront Music & Arts Festival, San Diego Smooth Jazz Festival and CRSSD Festival.

• Explore hidden gems

  The city is full of places that have not been explored yet. You can take a little detour while on your journey and discover the untouched beauty of San Diego. If you wish to visit less crowded places and with some epic views, go to Scrips Coastal Meander, La Jolla Hidden Bench and Shelter Island Japanese Friendship Bell.

• Visit the San Diego Central Library

  If you love books, then San Diego Central Library is the perfect place for you to spend your time. You can browse books and even attend free workshops.

• Take a cooking class

  Have a knack for cooking or wish to learn to cook some authentic Mexican food? Meet locals in a fun and interactive environment and enhance your culinary skills.

• Kayak in La Jolla Cove

  Glide through the crystal-clear waters of La Jolla Cove on a solo kayak adventure, where dramatic sea cliffs, secret caves and marine life surround you at every turn. Paddle at your own pace and enjoy the calming rhythm of the ocean.

Free things to do in San Diego

Whether you are exploring San Diego solo, with family or on a romantic getaway, you do not have to spend a dime to enjoy the best of what this coastal gem has to offer. Here is a list of free and some cheap things that you can consider while on your trip.

• Hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

  It is rightly said “Best things in life are free.” Breathtaking views and plant life are some of the features of this trail. Hike your way through and witness some of the best horizons in the world.

• Stroll at Seaport Village

  It is a beautiful setting along the waterfront with views of the Coronado Bridge. The entry is free and you can browse unique shops and boutiques and stroll along the waterfront.

• Visit the Timken Museum of Art

  This hidden gem houses European, American and Russian masterpieces and has no entry fee. It also hosts several events such as art workshops, musical performances and special lectures which you can participate in.

• Attend free concerts and cultural performances

  There are lots of free concerts that take place in this city. To name a few, these are El Cajon's Music, Coronado Promenade Summer Concert Series and Santee Summer Concert Series. Additionally, you can enjoy several cultural performances by artists at different places.

• Explore tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument

  There are certain days when you can enter Cabrillo for free. However, on other days, there is a nominal fee.

To visit all these places at your own pace and to experience absolute leisure, we recommend opting for car rentals if you are a tourist or do not have a private vehicle. A rental car provides utmost flexibility, comfort and privacy to explore San Diego fully and make the most out of your trip.