San Diego is famous for its beaches, parks, and unrivaled California weather. The city is way more than just whale watching, tide pools, and local breweries, though — this popular vacation spot has authentic Mexican food and a trendy Little Italy. Be sure to pack your swimsuits, a towel, and plenty of sunscreen to make the most of your time in San Diego. Kick-off your trip with some of these things to do San Diego.
With miles of beaches accompanied by classic boardwalk activities, it’s no surprise that San Diego stands as one of the most visited cities in the world. If you’re deciding on what to do during your trip to San Diego, here’s a few tips on the best things to do.
Popular attractions near San Diego include:
Take an Instagram photo atop Potato Chip Rock
Learn about why Belgian ale tastes different than American ale at White Labs
Check out the Midway and its 60 on-board exhibits
Swim with the leopard sharks at La Jolla Shores
See the Flower Fields while they’re blooming in spring
Being home to the Padres, the Sockers, and the Gulls, San Diego is a coastal hub for professional sports games. Plus, the wonderful weather ensures the action is never delayed due to rain.
Exciting activities near San Diego include:
Get the freshest catch at Tuna Harbor Dockside Market
Browse the eateries, bars, and craft vendors at Liberty Public Market
Visit the Torrey Pines State Reserve
Eat at Las Cuatro Milpas, with Mexican food that’s worth the wait
Eat at South Beach Bar & Grille for ocean views and microbrews
Just because the sun goes down doesn’t mean it’s time to turn in, San Diego comes alive at night. Explore the city’s lively bars, restaurants, and clubs after sunset.
Nighttime attractions near San Diego include:
Order a goblet full of vodka Red Bull slushie at PB Shore Club
See one of the best tiki experiences in San Diego at Cat Eye Club
See if Lady Luck is smiling at you at Saycuan Casino
Go downtown after sundown at Parq Restaurant & Nightclub
Head to the 16 blocks of partying in downtown SD’s lively Gaslamp Quarter
With weather ideal for any family vacation, taking the kids to San Diego can be a lot more affordable than you think. There are plenty of kid-friendly beaches for your family to sprawl out on.
Family-friendly attractions near San Diego include:
Take the kids to meet more than 3,700 animals at the San Diego Zoo
Get ice cream at Mr. Frostie, a Pacific Beach ice cream shop serving dessert since 1949
Pick strawberries at Suzie’s Farm
See sleight-of-hand and other stage magic at Red Spade Theater
San Diego’s warm weather makes it easy to stay outside, yet there are still plenty of things to do indoors. Learn all about the San Diego settlers, see historic buildings, and enjoy intriguing sites.
Indoor attractions near San Diego include:
Book a spa day at the iconic Hotel Del Coronado
Order a rum punch at Crowne Plaza San Diego
Catch a movie at the retro-inspired Pearl Hotel
Scope out North County’s best brews at Pinzgauer
Make the pinball wizard proud at Coin-Op Game Room
Sports and Outdoor Activities in San DiegoView All