San Diego, with its temperate climate, stunning beaches, and cultural attractions, is a paradise for visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting adventure, San Diego has something for everyone. With so much to see and do in this vibrant city, it can be hard to know where to start. But fear not, we’ve got you covered! In this post, we’re going to share with you some of the best attractions and things to do in San Diego. From the famous San Diego Zoo to the historic Gaslamp Quarter, you won’t want to miss any of these must-see destinations. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s explore San Diego together!
The 10 Best Walking Tours in San Diego
- Drink Ride Sing and Dance Sd Bar Tour
- San Diego Californian Tall Ship Adventure Sailing Trip
- San Diego Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
- San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Segway Tour
- 90 Minute San Diego Seal Tour
- Old Town San Diego Hop on Hop Off Narrated Tour
- San Diego Citypassr Save 42 at 5 Top Attractions
- San Diego Go San Diego Explorer Pass
- 244872120168 Hour Go San Diego Card
- Go San Diego Explorer City Pass Choose Any 3 4 5 or 7 Attractions
The 10 Best Walking Tours in San Diego
1. Drink Ride Sing and Dance Sd Bar Tour
Experience the best of San Diego’s nightlife with the Drink Ride Sing and Dance SD Bar Tour. This four-hour tour takes you to four bars in the Gaslamp Quarter, each carefully selected for an unforgettable night out. With discounts on drinks at each venue, enjoy a night of socializing with fellow travelers and locals. Get your singing voice ready for some karaoke action and don’t be shy to hit the dance floor with new friends you make along the way. The tour includes meeting and pickup at The Double Deuce, and ends at American Junkie. Wheelchair accessible. Book now for a night of fun in San Diego!
2. San Diego Californian Tall Ship Adventure Sailing Trip
Don’t miss this exciting adventure at sea aboard a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter, the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of the State of California. Immerse yourself in life aboard a tall ship during an adventure at sea and learn from the crew about historical facts and tales. You can even man the helm and help the crew in sailing a traditionally rigged tall ship. Included in the package is admission to the Maritime Museum of San Diego where you can explore before or after your cruise. This adventure sailing trip also includes food and drinks. Please note that this tour may not be suitable for people with mobility impairments and wheelchair users as it requires some physical activity.
3. San Diego Harbor Sightseeing Cruise
Board a sightseeing cruise through San Diego Harbor and take in the breathtaking views of the city’s skyline, iconic ships and landmarks. The 1 or 2-hour trip offers an educational and informative commentary from the crew, providing an insight into the current habitat restoration for the bay’s marine life. From the comfort of the boat, see the stunning Coronado Bay Bridge and spot the ships of the U.S Navy Surface Fleet docked along the shore. The fully-narrated cruise takes you past various notable points of interest such as Seaport Village, Shelter Island, Coronado Island, Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument, among others. The tour includes a captain and crew, and you have the option of purchasing drinks or snacks while onboard. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is also part of the package. Come join a San Diego Harbor Sightseeing Cruise and immerse yourself in this amazing experience!
4. San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Segway Tour
Explore the famous Gaslamp Quarter and other landmark attractions of San Diego on this comprehensive Segway tour. Led by a local guide, learn about the history of the city while cruising past Balboa Park, the Inez Grant Parker Rose Garden, the USS San Diego Memorial, Petco Park, and more. Enjoy spectacular views of San Diego Bay as you glide on your Segway. Beverages and snacks are included, and a brief safety session is provided to ensure you feel comfortable navigating the city streets. Choose between morning and afternoon tours. The package covers narration by a professional guide, a 30-minute Segway orientation, use of Segway, and all necessary safety equipment. Hotel pickup and drop-off are also included for added convenience.
5. 90 Minute San Diego Seal Tour
Splash into San Diego Bay with an insightful tour across land and water. This 90-minute tour takes you on a journey to San Diego Bay’s Shelter Island, where you can relax and enjoy amazing views. Take a seat aboard a hybrid bus and boat and come across the most interesting sights in the city. Wind through picturesque San Diego streets before splashing into the water for a cruise of San Diego Bay. Pass the Embarcadero and San Diego International Airport. Hear about the importance of the military in San Diego and other local icons as you travel along the scenic coast. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you all about San Diego’s main landmarks. The tour includes transportation in an amphibious vehicle and tips. This is a great opportunity to experience San Diego by sea and land.
6. Old Town San Diego Hop on Hop Off Narrated Tour
Join the Hop-on Hop-Off Tour of Old Town San Diego and explore over 100 points of interest in San Diego and Coronado at your own pace. Ride through town in an authentic trolley and listen to live narration by onboard guides providing insight and stories of the city.
Starting at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, you will see original adobe homes and artifacts from the earliest Mexican settlements. The tour also stops at the Coronado luxury resort and takes you along the scenic coastline. You can choose to begin the tour at any of the twelve boarding points and explore for the entire day.
The flexibility of this tour allows you to take your time at any point of interest, and when you’re ready to move on, simply hop back on the trolley and continue the journey. Don’t miss the chance to experience a unique and entertaining tour of San Diego with an Old Town San Diego Hop on Hop Off Narrated Tour.
7. San Diego Citypassr Save 42 at 5 Top Attractions
Book your San Diego CityPass and save up to 42% on admission to top attractions. The pass includes entry to SeaWorld San Diego or LEGOLAND California (or both), as well as prepaid admission to three additional theme parks, attractions, and tours of your choice. See the Maritime Museum of San Diego, go on a harbor cruise, marvel at a 3D holographic movie at the USS Midway Museum, and ride the Skyfari Aerial Tram at the San Diego Zoo. With instant delivery of mobile tickets, you can space out your visits over nine days. Please note that reservations might be required at some attractions. For current information and helpful tips to plan your visit, check out my.citypass.com.
8. San Diego Go San Diego Explorer Pass
Experience San Diego’s top attractions and tours with the San Diego Go San Diego Explorer Pass. With over 45 choices, you can choose 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7 attractions or tours to visit at your own pace. You won’t have to worry about cramming everything into one day as you have up to 60 days to use your pass from the first attraction visit. The best thing about the pass is that you can save up to 55% off when compared to buying separate attraction tickets.
Visit top museums like the Natural History Museum or the Birch Aquarium. Explore the city with a hop-on hop-off trolley tour or take a kayak and snorkel in La Jolla. The possibilities are endless with the San Diego Go San Diego Explorer Pass.
No physical card is required for this fully digital pass. Simply download it directly to your smartphone or print at home. Show your pass on your smartphone at each attraction and bypass the ticket lines. Don’t miss the chance to experience San Diego’s top attractions and tours at great discounted rates with the San Diego Go San Diego Explorer Pass.
9. 244872120168 Hour Go San Diego Card
The San Diego All-Inclusive Pass is the perfect way to save on your San Diego vacation. With a 1 2 3 4 5 or 7-day pass, get free admission to over 50 top San Diego-area activities, attractions, and tours. Whether you want to explore the famous San Diego Zoo, visit the USS Midway Museum, or take a harbor cruise, this pass has got you covered. Plus, with the included digital guide, you can easily plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in San Diego. Don’t miss out on the convenience and savings that the San Diego All-Inclusive Pass has to offer. Book yours today!
10. Go San Diego Explorer City Pass Choose Any 3 4 5 or 7 Attractions
Experience the best of San Diego’s local attractions and activities in a cost-effective way with the San Diego Explorer Pass. Available for up to seven local attractions, the pass allows you to choose the number of attractions you want to visit and enjoy discounted rates. The pass is perfect for both tourists and San Diego residents and is valid for 60 days from first use. The pass comes with a digital guide that contains useful attraction information, making it convenient for you to navigate around the city. The San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Natural History Museum are some of the available attractions that you can visit. You can also choose to go on a thrilling speedboat tour or rent a bike to explore the city. Your pass also includes free admission to your choice of two to seven local attractions, eliminating the need for you to pay for any parking fees, food and drink or gratuities in those attractions. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see San Diego’s best attractions at a discounted rate with the San Diego Explorer Pass!
Top Frequently Asked Questions Tourists Have about San Diego
San Diego is a beautiful coastal city in southern California, located near the Mexican border. It is well known for its breathtaking beaches, lush parks, world-class cultural, exciting nightlife, and award-winning cuisine. Thousands of tourists visit San Diego every year, and many of them have similar questions about the city before their trip. This blog post aims to answer the most frequently asked questions by visitors to San Diego.1. What is the Best Time to Visit San Diego?
San Diego is warm and sunny all year round, making it an ideal destination for all seasons. However, the best time to visit San Diego is from March to May or from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer. Summer (June-August) is the peak season with tourist numbers skyrocketing, and hotel prices surge. Winter (December-February) can be chilly and rainy, but it’s the perfect time to explore the city’s indoor attractions.2. What is the Best Way to Get Around the City?
San Diego has an excellent public transportation system, including trolleys, buses, trains, and taxis. The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), which operates the trolleys and buses, offers affordable day passes and multi-day passes for tourists. Another popular way to get around San Diego is by bike. The city has many bike rental shops, and bike paths are available all along the coastline. If you’re planning to drive, make sure to check the traffic flow as San Diego is infamous for its traffic congestion.3. What are the Best Attractions to Visit in San Diego?
San Diego has a plethora of attractions, and it’s not easy to cover everything in one trip. Here are some of the top-rated attractions to visit in San Diego:i. Balboa Park:
Balboa Park is the nation’s largest urban cultural park, featuring 17 museums, gardens, theaters, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.ii. La Jolla Cove:
La Jolla Cove is an aquatic paradise with crystal clear waters, abundant marine life, stunning beachfronts, and breathtaking sunsets.iii. USS Midway Museum:
USS Midway Museum is a naval aircraft carrier turned museum, showcasing over 60 exhibits and 29 restored aircraft.iv. San Diego Zoo:
San Diego Zoo is a world-renowned zoo with over 3,700 animals of 650 species, including giant pandas, tigers, and elephants.v. Coronado Beach:
Coronado Beach is a 1.5-mile long pristine beach, famous for its sparkling sand, picturesque sunsets, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.4. What is the Food Scene Like in San Diego?
San Diego’s food scene is diverse, delicious, and definitely ranks as one of the best in the country. Being a coastal city, San Diego is renowned for its fresh seafood, including clam chowder, fish tacos, lobster rolls, and sushi. There are also many Mexican-inspired dishes, including enchiladas, tacos, and burritos. San Diego has a bustling brewery scene, with over 150 breweries offering an array of locally brewed craft beers. Some of the best neighborhoods for culinary adventures are Little Italy, Gaslamp Quarter, and Del Mar.5. What are the Best Beaches to Visit in San Diego?
San Diego is home to some of the most stunning beaches in California. From rocky cliffs to long stretches of golden sand, there’s a beach for everyone in San Diego. Here are some of the most beautiful beaches to visit in San Diego:i. Coronado Beach:
Coronado Beach is a picture-perfect beach with a long stretch of golden sand, crystal clear waters, and spectacular views of Hotel Del Coronado.ii. La Jolla Cove:
La Jolla Cove is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, with its clear and calm waters and thriving marine life.iii. Torrey Pines State Beach:
Torrey Pines State Beach is a rugged beach with soaring cliffs, natural tide pools, and picturesque hiking trails.iv. Mission Beach:
Mission Beach is a popular beach with a lively boardwalk, plenty of restaurants, and amusement park rides.6. What is the Nightlife like in San Diego?
San Diego has a thriving nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and ages. From rooftop bars to nightclubs, there’s something for everyone in San Diego. The Gaslamp Quarter, located in downtown San Diego, is the hub for nightlife, with over 100 nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. Other popular neighborhoods for nightlife include North Park, Pacific Beach, and Hillcrest.7. Is San Diego Expensive?
San Diego can be expensive, but it’s still cheaper than other tourist hotspots like Los Angeles or San Francisco. The cost of living in San Diego is slightly higher than the US average, but there are still plenty of affordable options for food, accommodation, and attractions. You can save money on your trip by visiting during the off-season, staying in a budget-friendly lodging option, and using public transportation instead of renting a car.8. What are the Best Day Trips from San Diego?
San Diego is an excellent jumping-off point for many exciting day trips to nearby attractions. Here are some of the best day trips from San Diego:i. Tijuana, Mexico:
Tijuana is just across the Mexican border and is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and exciting nightlife.ii. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park:
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is located just east of San Diego and is the perfect day trip for nature lovers, offering miles of hiking trails, stunning views, and an eye-catching desert landscape.iii. Temecula Wine Country:
Temecula Wine Country is a picturesque wine region located an hour north of San Diego, offering plenteous wine tastings, vineyard tours, and fine dining experiences.iv. Disneyland Park in Anaheim:
Disneyland Park is the “happiest place on earth” and is just a two-hour drive from San Diego, making it an easy and fun-filled day trip for families.In conclusion, San Diego is a beautiful city with endless attractions, natural beauty, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, San Diego has something for everyone. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you will be better prepared to plan a memorable trip to San Diego.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in San Diego
San Diego is a beautiful city located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean in California. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. With its sunny climate, miles of sandy beaches, and abundance of attractions, San Diego offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll show you some of the best things to do as a tourist in San Diego.1. Visit Balboa Park
Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s most popular tourist destinations. It is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park in the heart of the city. The park is home to over 16 museums, several performing arts venues, beautiful gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Whether you love museums, art, music, or nature, Balboa Park has something for you.What to see in Balboa Park:
- The San Diego Museum of Art
- The Museum of Man
- The San Diego Air & Space Museum
- The San Diego Zoo
- The Botanical Building and Gardens
2. Go to the Beaches
San Diego is famous for its beautiful beaches. From surfing to swimming, the beaches in San Diego offer a wide range of activities. Some of the most popular beaches in San Diego include La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach.Best Beaches in San Diego:
| Beach Name | Activities |
|---|---|
| La Jolla Cove | Swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and scuba diving |
| Coronado Beach | Swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball |
| Mission Beach | Surfing, boogie boarding, beach volleyball, and sunbathing |
3. Explore Downtown San Diego
Downtown San Diego is the cultural and financial center of the city. It is home to several historic attractions, museums, and galleries, as well as restaurants, boutiques, and nightclubs. Some of the best places to visit in downtown San Diego include the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and the USS Midway Museum.Top Attractions in Downtown San Diego:
- The Gaslamp Quarter
- The USS Midway Museum
- The San Diego Museum of Contemporary Art
- The San Diego Convention Center
- Little Italy
4. Visit the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoological parks in the world. It is home to over 3,700 animals and 650 species and subspecies. The zoo also has several impressive exhibits, including the Panda Trek, Elephant Odyssey, and Africa Rocks.Tips for Visiting the San Diego Zoo:
- Buy tickets online to avoid long lines at the entrance.
- Plan your visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen.
- Check the schedule for animal feedings and shows.
5. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
San Diego is one of the best places in the world to watch whales. Several companies offer whale watching tours from San Diego Bay, where you can see gray whales, blue whales, and even humpback whales.Best Time for Whale Watching:
The best time to go whale watching in San Diego is from December to April, during the peak of the gray whale migration. However, blue whales and humpback whales can be seen from June to September.
6. Visit the USS Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum is an aircraft carrier turned museum that served in the US Navy from 1945 to 1992. The museum offers interactive exhibits and self-guided audio tours to show visitors what life was like on board the ship.Tips for Visiting the USS Midway Museum:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as some areas of the ship are not shaded.
- Check the schedule for guided tours and talks.
- Don’t miss the chance to climb to the top of the tower for a great view of San Diego Bay.
Book Your Tour Now
There are countless things to do in San Diego, from exploring its beautiful beaches to visiting its world-class museums and attractions. Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with family and friends, San Diego is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.Table of Contents
