San Diego, CA
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the multitude of hiking trails in the nearby mountains and canyons, as well as various water activities along the 70 miles of pristine coastline. The city's culinary scene is thriving, with an abundance of farm-to-table restaurants and a craft beer culture that rivals any in the country. Whether it's exploring the USS Midway Museum or catching a wave at La Jolla Shores, San Diego captures the essence of Southern California living with a relaxed and welcoming vibe.
What to do in San Diego, CA
Visiting the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most renowned zoological parks in the world, featuring over 3,500 animals across 650 species. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds and witness a wide variety of wildlife in carefully recreated natural habitats. The zoo is particularly famous for its efforts in conservation and research, making it an educational and entertaining experience for both adults and children. Additionally, the zoo offers special experiences like early morning panda viewings and behind-the-scenes tours for an immersive and unforgettable visit.
Exploring Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a cultural oasis in San Diego, home to a myriad of museums, gardens, and performing arts venues. This sprawling 1,200-acre park features stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and attractions such as the San Diego Museum of Art, the Botanical Building, and the Old Globe Theatre. Visitors can spend days exploring the park’s diverse offerings, which include beautiful gardens, Spanish Colonial Revival-style buildings, and engaging exhibitions. The park also hosts regular events, concerts, and performances, making it a vibrant hub of activity for locals and tourists alike.
Enjoying the Beaches
San Diego boasts some of the most picturesque and diverse beaches in California. From the family-friendly shores of Coronado Beach to the surf breaks of La Jolla Shores, there’s a beach to suit every preference. Visitors can indulge in activities like swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Additionally, the iconic Pacific Beach Boardwalk offers a lively atmosphere with bike rentals, seaside cafes, and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it a perfect spot for those seeking both relaxation and entertainment by the ocean.
Discovering USS Midway Museum
As one of the most popular maritime museums globally, the USS Midway Museum offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore a historic naval aircraft carrier. This floating museum features a comprehensive collection of aircraft, interactive exhibits, and immersive experiences, allowing visitors to gain insight into the ship’s operational history and its significance. Guests can walk the flight deck, explore the crew’s quarters, and even embark on a flight simulator, making it a captivating attraction for history enthusiasts and anyone with an interest in military and aviation history.
Roaming around Seaport Village
Seaport Village is a charming waterfront district that blends shopping, dining, and entertainment against the backdrop of San Diego Bay. This picturesque area features cobblestone pathways, unique shops, and diverse dining options, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely day of exploration. Visitors can peruse a variety of boutiques, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and enjoy outdoor performances while taking in stunning views of the marina. With its relaxed ambiance and beautiful surroundings, Seaport Village offers a delightful escape from the urban bustle, providing a quintessential San Diego experience for tourists.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Balboa Park. Explore the beautiful gardens, museums, and architecture. Don’t miss the San Diego Zoo, a world-renowned attraction within the park.
Afternoon: Head to the historic Gaslamp Quarter for some lunch and to soak in the Victorian architecture. Visit the USS Midway Museum, a floating naval aviation museum with engaging exhibits.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset stroll along the Embarcadero and take in breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in Little Italy, known for its lively atmosphere and fantastic cuisine.
Day 2:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to La Jolla Cove. Witness the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, explore the tide pools, and, if you’re adventurous, consider kayaking around the coastal caves.
Afternoon: Spend your afternoon in the vibrant neighborhood of Old Town San Diego. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area, visit the historic state park, and indulge in some authentic Mexican cuisine for lunch.
Evening: End your trip with a relaxing visit to the stunning beaches of Coronado. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, immerse in the beauty of the Hotel del Coronado, and witness a memorable sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Outdoor Dining
Savor delicious meals at outdoor eateries with stunning views of the ocean or scenic landscapes in San Diego.
Champagne Brunch Buffet
Make the most of your weekend with a 2-hour brunch cruise through San Diego Bay. Capture prime views of the city skyline and harbor from a luxury yacht, and round out your morning bliss with bottomless mimosas and our brunch menu service includes breakfast favorites, vegetarian options, and so much more. Indoor seating. Listen to our live entertainment as the attentive crew constantly top off your glass. Shouldn’t weekends always be like this?
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $118.02
Platinum Balboa Park and Downtown Segway Tour
This 2 hour to 2.5 hour segway tour is the premier way to experience downtown San Diego and world famous Balboa Park. Visit historic sites like the Hall of Justice, Pantoja Park, and then make your way through Little Italy. Experience all the wonders that San Diego has to offer.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $79.00
Julian Puzzling Adventure
Turn Julian into a game while partaking on a 2-hour Walking Adventure. Your smartphone will act as your guide, while you solve clues and complete challenges around the city. Entry price is per team.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $34.99
Luxury Picnic with Stunning Coastal Views at Sunset Cliffs
Your luxury picnic is set up with incredibly comfortable seating and unforgettable views. Every detail that goes into your picnic is designed to be amazing for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, proposal, bachelorette, family gathering, or other special occasion. We create an intimate, romantic or festive experience that is memorable and inspiring. We are open to special requests :)
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $89.00
Water Sports
Engage in various water activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and sailing in the ocean or the bay.
San Diego Bay Jet Boat Ride
A boat ride on San Diego Bay is lovely, but an exhilarating ride on a dual-engine jet boat is an experience to remember. Zoom around the bay, enjoying views of the city skyline and Coronado Island and relishing the feel of the roaring wind. If that’s not enough thrill, 360-degree spins add to the excitement. Choose from several departure times to suit your sightseeing schedule.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $40.00
Shared 6 Hours Tijuana Taco and Craft Beer Tour
4 breweries, we cover 2 flights or Pints in any of the 4 breweries. The tacos are on us. San Diego is famous for its vibrant craft brewing scene, and its sister city of Tijuana has become a beer lover’s destination, too. Go on a sudsy adventure south of the border, small-group trip. Meet your guide at 2pm just north of the US-Mexico border in San Ysidro. Once you venture in to Mexico, you’ll sample tasting flights, drop by a mexican craft brewery, fill up on tacos, and otherwise enjoy Tijuana’s hoppy and Foodie side.
Book Today on Viator From $130.00
Sunset Cliffs Cruise
The Sunset Cliffs Cruise is in our cool open top vans. We cruise the harbor and see the San Diego Bay and Ocean Beach on the way to the Cliffs. The Cliffs is the westernmost part of California is know for its Sunset Views. We have a lot of fun with music and beverages for the cruise
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $213.34
Full-Day Snorkeling Rental Package
Full-day snorkel rental package is a great way to explore the underwater world of San Diego on your own. With this package, you'll be provided with all your gear to get you in the water. On this adventure you will see amazing marine life such as garibaldi, Sealions, shovelnose, leopard sharks and much more.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $9.00
Family Fun
Enjoy family-friendly attractions such as the San Diego Zoo, LEGOLAND California, and Belmont Park.
San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass Any Day Ticket
The San Diego Zoo is a 100-acre wildlife park and home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals, representing more than 650 species and subspecies. Located just north of downtown San Diego in Balboa Park, the Zoo is also an accredited botanical garden, caring for more than 700,000 individual plants, including a prominent curated assemblage of close to 13,000 specimens, representing 3,100 species.
The expansive new 3.2-acre Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is designed to appeal to all ages and foster empathy for wildlife by exploring nature. Built on the site of the historic Children’s Zoo, the basecamp features fresh and innovative elements, including eight buildings and habitats dispersed throughout four different habitat zones: Rainforest, Wild Woods, Marsh Meadows and Desert Dunes.
Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit.
Book Today on Viator From $72.00
San Diego Zoo Safari Park 1-Day Pass Any Day Ticket
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park, an 1,800-acre wildlife park, is home to more than 3,600 animals representing over 300 species. More than 1 million guests each year see wildlife in herds of mixed species, in expansive savanna habitats. The Safari Park also maintains a vast accredited botanical collection of more than 1.3 million plant specimens, representing over 3,700 species. Guests are invited to take part in thrilling safari experiences and create lasting memories, while supporting San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance’s conservation efforts to save wildlife worldwide.
Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the Safari Park.
Book Today on Viator From $72.00
LEGOLAND® California Admission Tickets
Experience a day of imagination and fun during a trip to LEGOLAND California. More than 60 rides, shows and attractions are designed to entertain and expand your mind as you explore the amazing world of LEGO. You also have the option to visit SEA LIFE Aquarium, right next door for a fascinating glimpse into the aquatic world.
A ROARsome adventure awaits at the NEW Dino Valley, opening March 22, 2024 at LEGOLAND® California Resort, with new rides and bricktastic LEGO® dinosaurs!
Book Today on Viator From $79.00
San Diego Zoo and Safari Park 2-Visit Pass Ticket
With thousands of wild animals including many on the endangered species list, its no wonder that San Diego Zoo is world famous. With more than 4,000 animals representing 800 species, San Diego Zoo is home to a diverse collection of animals, many of which are rarely seen at other zoos.
Either spend another day at the San Diego Zoo, or receive admission to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, located about 35 miles (55 km) away from the zoo. At the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, you will be inspired by the African Serengeti and the endless expanses of the Asian plains, the 1,800-acre San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers you an exotic safari adventure unlike any other outside of Africa itself.
With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park.
Book Today on Viator From $124.00
Outdoor Yoga and Wellness
Partake in outdoor yoga sessions, wellness retreats, and beachside meditation to rejuvenate mind and body.
San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour
Meet your guide and group at Old Adobe Chapel, which can be credited for saving Old Town San Diego thanks to a 1884 book. Continue on to one of the most haunted homes in Southern California, also unusual for its architecture and building materials.
After a view of some Victorian architecture we'll pass by the original location of the Presidio and Mission when the Spanish first settled in California. Admire the oldest 18th-century structure in the area and learn about the indigenous tribes who lived here for thousands of years.
Back in town, we'll see some authentic Mexican handcrafts (no bad souvenirs here!), visit a hundred year old Catholic church that is a descendant of the original Mission, followed by a stroll through a landmark cemetery with graves dating back to the 1850s. Our final stop is a local Tequileria to learn about the many different kinds of tequila. Enjoy a taste or select another beverage of your choice, plus gourmet tacos.
Book Today on Viator From $79.00
Wildlife Encounters
Discover diverse marine life by visiting SeaWorld, the Birch Aquarium, or embarking on whale watching tours.
Private Family Whale & Dolphin Adventure in San Diego
For more then a decade, we have been San Diego's only, VIP/Private, Family Whale/Dolphin Adventure!!
Your own Private, "Family Limo", on the water with a Licensed USCG Captain at the helm!! (Tandem trips up to 12 passengers)
All current operating permits and USCG safety equipped.
Enclosed Cabin with Captain chairs and a full restroom.
Observation Tower on top that seats 3
Book Today on Viator From $179.00
Dolphin & Whale Watching Sunset Cruise
Our Sunset Cruise departs from Mission Bay in beautiful San Diego, CA. Our friendly and experienced crew provides you with sightings of beautiful whales & dolphins, and an educational experience where you can learn about these animals that visit the ocean near San Diego harbor. This is topped off with our beautiful San Diego sunset.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $65.00
3 Hours Guided Whale and Dolphin Watching Experience in San Diego
Get arms-reach away from whales and dolphins on a year-round ocean safari! With fun, fast 6 - 10 passenger boats, these are the most exclusive and intimate guided tours in San Diego!
Our former military boats are the fastest and safest boats on the water with the highest chances of finding wildlife, virtually no sea-sickness, and 360-degree views from every seat.
We offer all types of boat excursions including whale & dolphin watching, tours of the San Diego Bay, island tours to Mexico, spectator & event support, and all types of custom private charters.
Book Today on Viator From $139.00
San Diego Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure
Enjoy the best sightseeing on the San Diego Bay—with a professionally narrated tour provided by The San Diego Natural History Museum of San Diego's whale-watching hot spots. Join us on the water as we search for Gray Whales (winter), Blue Whales (Summer), Minke Whales, Fin Whales, dolphins, sea lions, marine birds and much more!
As we cruise, we’ll see up-close views of the bay's wildlife as well as iconic landmarks from a new perspective. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture all the sights in photos and video.
If some type of whale is not sighted on your whale watching cruise, you will receive a pass good to return for a Whale Watching Cruise or Harbor Cruise from City Cruises San Diego.
NOTE: The whale watching vessel cruises in the open ocean. Our yacht is the most comfortable yacht in San Diego, due to stabilizers that greatly reduce the yacht's motion.
Book Today on Viator From $59.98
Cultural Attractions
Visit museums, galleries, and cultural landmarks in Balboa Park, Old Town, and other areas rich in history and art.
Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket in San Diego
Experience life at sea without leaving port by visiting the USS Midway Museum, San Diego's number 1 rated visitor attraction. A visit to this historic naval aircraft carrier museum is an essential experience for people of all ages. Hangar Deck and Flight Deck tour routes will showcase Midway’s exclusive collection of more than 30 restored Navy aircraft and the incredible views of San Diego Bay.
Book Today on Viator From $32.00
Behind-the-Scenes at Petco Park Tour
Explore America's #1 Ballpark on one of our daily guided tours. Experience the ballpark as only players and staff do. Led by a tour guide, this historical, behind-the-scenes tour allows guests to experience the ballpark while learning about the history of Petco Park and the San Diego Padres.
Visit:
Visitor's Clubhouse
Major League Dugout
Press Box
Private Luxury Suite
Coronado Club
Gallagher Chairman's Club
Home Plate Club
Historic Western Metal Supply Co. Building
The Breitbard Hall of Fame
Padres Hall of Fame presented by Motorola
*All tour stops are subject to change depending upon Petco Park schedule and area availability.
** Receive 10% off in the Padres Team Store on day of tour. Valid day of tour only.
Book Today on Viator From $38.00
LEGOLAND® California Admission Tickets
Experience a day of imagination and fun during a trip to LEGOLAND California. More than 60 rides, shows and attractions are designed to entertain and expand your mind as you explore the amazing world of LEGO. You also have the option to visit SEA LIFE Aquarium, right next door for a fascinating glimpse into the aquatic world.
A ROARsome adventure awaits at the NEW Dino Valley, opening March 22, 2024 at LEGOLAND® California Resort, with new rides and bricktastic LEGO® dinosaurs!
Book Today on Viator From $79.00
Tijuana Local Walking Tour from San Diego
This is a Local Guide service to show you around Tijuana in a walking tour, no amenities are included. We will offer to stop and eat something of the group convenience. And time to shop if the group requires it. We have a pit stop for Alcohol drink too. This tour it's for does with limited time on the visit to San Diego. The group will experience the local perspective as all our tours
Book Today on Viator From $53.00
Hiking
Explore numerous hiking trails offering scenic views, from coastal paths to mountain treks.
Explore Coronado Island by E-Scooter with Photos Included
Join me on a journey through one of San Diego's most iconic places. Since this Island is large, we will be touring the major sites with the wind in our hair on electric scooters. No walking required ;)
The first stop will be the beautiful Tidelands Park where we will pause for some pictures. Next, we will briefly cruise to the Ferry Landing enjoying amazing views of the San Diego Skyline before heading across the Island. We will then wind through quiet streets and neighborhoods checking out houses along the way. It's then time to see Coronado Beach and the historic Hotel Del Coronado. After exploring the hotel and property on foot, we will follow the shoreline around to the beautiful Coronado Bay Bridge. We will wrap up at the beach before heading back to where we started.
Photos of your adventure are included!
If you want to see the island in a fun & unique way with a local guide, then this is the tour for you!
(Tips are not required but are always appreciated :)
Book Today on Viator From $59.00
North Park Beerucation Tour
Beer is the backbone of San Diego and North Park is a beer mecca. The goal of the Beerucation Tour is to dive deep into San Diego’s beer world trying a multitude of different styles, from a multitude of different breweries. We order all of these crazy beers at bars etc. but do we really know what we are drinking, what food we can pair it with, and what makes it so delicious. While sipping on some of these there will be some great knowledge to be found in an area that is filled with art and culture.
-Walk into 3-4 local craft breweries and get a chance to taste and learn about a variety of different beer styles, the brewing process, food and beer pairing and what it takes to start a successful brewery
-Learn how to pair beer with food while munching on some delicious snacks
-Learn about a neighborhood that went from an area filled with street cars to a land of hipsters and famous restaurants
-This is NOT only for beer nerds. (Other options will be available)
Book Today on Viator From $85.00
Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour
Explore some of San Diego's unique and off-the-beaten-path attractions while driving some of the best backroads in San Diego County. We'll make our way to the top of Palomar Mountain and visit the Palomar Observatory and Museum. We'll descend down to the desert town of Borrego Springs with its bighorn sheep and iconic metal sculptures dotting the landscape. Finally, we'll make our way back through the historic mountain town of Julian, known for its delicious apple pies.
You'll want to allow a full day for this 152-mile drive. While the drive itself can be done in 3 1/2 hours, we'll be pointing out dozens of points of interest and places to stop along the way. We'll also share some of the rich history of San Diego's past.
Don't miss out on this unforgettable San Diego drive!
Book Today on Viator From $14.99
Surfing
Ride the waves in some of the best surf spots like La Jolla Shores, Pacific Beach, and Torrey Pines State Beach.
Private Surf Lesson
This is your experience, and we are here to make it memorable, long lasting, and share the stoke with each person who steps into our surf shop. We make surfing your favorite thing to do! Why? Because we love being able to share the stoke wherever we are in the world, or people who visit us in San Diego here! Our team is dedicated to providing an experience that has you hungry for more, dreaming of the next swell, and booking you next San Diego stay the moment you exit the water. The private surf lesson will have you at the center of your experience, customizing your surfing goals! So whether it's creating a new experience, getting back out there, having your colleagues jealous of your new SoCal tan, we leave you stoked on surfing, making it your favorite thing to do!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $150.80
Semi-Private Surf Lesson
This is your experience, and we are here to make it memorable, long lasting, and share the stoke with each person who steps into our surf shop. We make surfing your favorite thing to do! Why? Because we love being able to share the stoke wherever we are in the world, or people who visit us in San Diego here! Our team is dedicated to providing an experience that has you hungry for more, dreaming of the next swell, and booking you next San Diego stay the moment you exit the water. The semi-private surf lesson will have your group at the center of the experience, customizing each person's surfing goals! So whether it's creating a new experience, getting back out there, having your colleagues jealous of your new SoCal tan, we leave you stoked on surfing, making it your favorite thing to do!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $125.28
TC'S Fishing Adventures 2 Hour Guided Fishing Tour
TC's Fishing Adventures!Whether you have little experience or a lot you will make the most of each moment fishing with TC. We are here to guide you and make your San Diego fishing trip come to reality. Come out and meet us on the pier for some memorable moments. We will provide you with rod, tackle and all the necessities you need in order to catch some fish. If we’re lucky we will catch anything from; leopard shark, croaker, Sand bass, halibut, guitar fish and many more. Our favorite hobby is connecting people with fishing.
Book Today on Viator From $74.99