San Diego Activity Guide
There is so much to do in San Diego. You can easily spend weeks trying to do and see everything. Here are a few of my favorite things to do when visiting San Diego.
🔹San Diego Zoo - the zoo in San Diego is impressive. It is located near downtown, next to Balboa park. It contains many different animals and is one of the few US zoos to have pandas. You can easily spend a whole day at the zoo. It’s great for kids and adults alike.
🔹Safari Park - the Safari park is part of the San Diego zoo system, but it is a different than the San Diego zoo. It is located about 40 minutes north of San Diego. The Safari park is also great to visit. They have less variety of animals, but many large animals such as giraffes, elephants, and rhinoceros. The Safari park ambiance is also quite beautiful as you are surrounded by beautiful mountains.
🔹Waterfront - there is a walking path near downtown along the bay front. It is great to take a walk and see both the downtown and lots of old ships. You must stop and see the Unconditional Surrender statue. There are also lots of cute sites and shops along the path.
🔹Bike Coronado Island - Coronado island is a small island near downtown San Diego. You can spend an afternoon biking around the island. It’s a great way to see the island and take in the amazing ocean views. We rented our bikes from SUP & Saddle. The bikes were nice and they also gave us a lock, so we could make stops during our ride. The bikes were reasonably priced and perfect for an afternoon.
🔹Del Coronado Hotel - the Del Coronado hotel is not to be missed. It is a historic hotel, on Coronado Island, that has kept most of its old charm. It’s pretty pricy to stay in, but the hotel lobby and shops are open to the public. You can also check out the beautiful public beach located behind the hotel. It’s one of the best beaches in the US.
🔹Balboa Park - a park near downtown that has beautiful Spanish style architecture. The park is great for just taking a stroll, but there are also lots of activities in the park too. There are also 18 different museums around the park. You could probably spend a week trying to do everything there. I recommend walking around and picking one or two museums you want to check out.
🔹Little Italy - the best thing to do in Little Italy is definitely to eat, but it is also a cute area to check out and walk around. Little Italy was and is home to many Italian immigrants. There are so many delicious places to eat in Little Italy. My personal favorite is Filippi’s Pizza.
🔹Old Town - definitely more touristy, but Old Town is still worth visiting. Old Town is full of San Diego history. You can learn about the indigenous people who first lived in the region and the early Spanish and Mexican settlers. Old Town is also full of old architecture, churches, and shops where locals sell their art. It is also quite a cute area to walk around and enjoy.
🔹Sunset Cliffs - although it is known for the incredible sunsets, Sunset cliffs is great for both daytime and sunset. During the day you can soak up the amazing ocean views. During the spring there are quite a few wildflowers as well. On a clear day, the sun sets into the ocean and fills the skies with orange and pink hues.
🔹La Jolla Cove - this area boasts beautiful ocean views. You can also see a variety of wildlife such as birds, otters, and seals. You can walk around the area and take in all the views. If you like getting into the water, it is a popular area for swimming and snorkeling in the summer.
🔹Torrey Pines State Park - tons of hiking trails and gorgeous ocean views. The trails here are easy-medium in difficulty. They also vary in length, so everyone can find a trail that they will enjoy. You also get to see the rare Torrey Pine tree, which you can only see in Southern California.
🔹Cabrillo National Monument - This area has great city and ocean views as you can see the ocean, downtown San Diego, and Coronado Island. There are also some small hiking trails here, but they are optional. You can get the views without any hiking. As this is a National Monument, you can use an annual National Park pass to get in for free, otherwise there is an entrance fee.
🔹Beaches - There are so many beaches around San Diego. You really can’t go wrong. Some of my favorites include Coronado beach, Ocean beach, and Mission beach. The beaches in San Diego are white sand and gorgeous. California is on the Pacific Ocean though, so the water temperature can be a little cold compared to the Atlantic. That’s all part of the experience though!
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If there’s one thing I absolutely love doing when I’m in San Diego, it’s taking a long, leisurely waterfront walk along the Embarcadero. The original guide just touches on it, but let me tell you, this isn't just any walk – it’s an experience that truly captures the essence of this vibrant city! My personal favorite route starts near the USS Midway Museum. You can park nearby or easily get there via public transport. From there, you just head south, and the views open up immediately. On one side, you have the sparkling San Diego Bay, often dotted with sailboats, kayaks, and even massive cruise ships. On the other, the city skyline gleams, and you're surrounded by bustling activity, yet there's a peaceful rhythm to the bay. As you embark on this waterfront walk, you'll quickly encounter the magnificent USS Midway Museum. Even if you don't go inside, admiring this historic aircraft carrier from the outside is impressive. Right next to it, you'll find the iconic "Unconditional Surrender" statue – that famous image of the sailor kissing the nurse. It's a popular spot for photos, and it really brings a piece of history to life. I always stop there, feeling the energy of such a memorable moment. Continuing your stroll, you’ll pass the Maritime Museum of San Diego, home to stunning historical ships like the Star of India. It’s amazing to see these vessels up close and imagine their journeys. The path is well-maintained and flat, making it perfect for all ages and fitness levels. I often see families with strollers, joggers, and couples enjoying a romantic sunset walk. A highlight for me is reaching Seaport Village. This charming collection of shops, galleries, and restaurants is a fantastic place to pause. I usually grab a coffee or a sweet treat and just sit by the water, watching the boats go by. It’s got such a unique, laid-back vibe. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to unique souvenirs here, and there are often street performers adding to the lively atmosphere. From Seaport Village, you can continue further south towards Embarcadero Marina Park. This area offers stunning panoramic views of the Coronado Bridge and Coronado Island itself. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even catch a ferry from the waterfront over to Coronado and then bike the island, as mentioned in the main guide – it's a fantastic extension to your bayfront adventure! Practical Tips for Your Waterfront Walk: Best Time to Go: Early morning is fantastic for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, especially in summer. Sunset, however, is magical. The sky lights up with oranges and pinks over the bay, making for incredible photos and a truly romantic atmosphere. Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes! While the path is smooth, you'll want to cover some ground to take it all in. Hydration & Snacks: Bring water, especially on warmer days. There are plenty of places to buy food and drinks, but having your own helps keep you going. Sun Protection: San Diego sunshine is glorious but strong. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Explore Side Streets: Don't be afraid to venture a block or two inland. You might discover hidden gems, art installations, or quaint cafes. For me, the San Diego waterfront walk isn’t just about the sights; it’s about the feeling. It’s the salty air, the sound of seagulls, the distant clang of boat rigging, and the sheer joy of being outdoors in such a beautiful setting. It’s a place where you can feel the pulse of the city while simultaneously relaxing and soaking in the natural beauty of the bay. So next time you're in San Diego, make sure this walk is at the top of your list!
I love Coronado hotel in Coronado beach. Specially the water there’s gold flakes in the water so when you come out you look like you’re glistening.