7 Things to do in San Diego
Hometown Series Guest Post by Kristin from Global Travel Escapades
Are you wondering what the best things to do in San Diego are? Located on the western side of Southern California, San Diego is a vibrant city that is often likened to a coastal paradise. From its world-class attractions and miles of natural beauty to its laid-back lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere, San Diego beckons to travelers everywhere. And if you’re thinking of visiting, here are some of the top things to do during your stay!
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Top Things to do in San Diego, California
1. Spend Time at the Beaches
One of the most popular things to do in San Diego is to spend time at the beach. Within the city, you have all kinds of options to choose from depending on what you would like to do. For instance, there are several beaches in San Diego with amazing surf, such as Scripps. So, whether you’re looking to build towering sand castles, just stroll along the shoreline, or bask in the refreshing waters, definitely be sure to spend some time having fun at at least one of San Diego’s beaches.
2. Walk Around the Different Neighborhoods
For those looking to get their steps in for the day, a nice way to discover San Diego is by wandering through its diverse neighborhoods. Each neighborhood offers its own distinctive charm and attractions. For example, the Gaslamp Quarter is well-known for its vibrant nightlife and speakeasies while the North Park area has a youthful, artistic spirit.
And one of the best ways to get acquainted with the many neighborhoods is through San Diego’s amazing culinary scene. Savor the flavors of Little Italy’s authentic Italian cuisine, indulge in mouthwatering Asian offerings of the Convoy District, or sample fresh seafood along the waterfront near Seaport Village!
3 Balboa Park
Undoubtedly one of the top things to do in San Diego is visit Balboa Park. Located in the heart of San Diego, this sprawling park is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and entertainment and holds something for every type of traveler. Visitors can find everything from beautiful trails and lush gardens to stunning architecture and a wide range of museums.
Some of the crowd-favorite museums include the Fleet Science Center and Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum, but honestly, each museum offers an enriching experience as they are constantly being updated and made to be more interactive. So, whether you’re keen on strolling through the gardens, embarking on a solo art expedition, or engaging young minds with interactive exhibits, Balboa Park is a must-visit.
4. Visit the San Diego Zoo
On the other side of Balboa Park is the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, committed to wildlife education and conservation. This huge zoo offers a captivating experience for visitors of all backgrounds and allows you to encounter a fascinating array of animals, from majestic lions and ethereal polar bears to exotic reptiles and playful penguins. There are also some attractions outside of getting up close and personal with the wildlife, such as the Skyfari Aerial Tram and a 4-D theater.
5. Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve
Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve is another beautiful place where you can enjoy San Diego’s natural beauty at its finest. Located on the northern side of the sprawling San Diego area, this reserve contains a delicate natural environment, including America’s rarest pine tree. Visitors can admire the wildlife while hiking along the miles of coastal trails that wrap around the scenic bluffs that offer awe-inspiring ocean views.
6. Visit La Jolla
For those who don’t know, La Jolla is the most upscale neighborhood in San Diego. It’s where you’ll find the Scripps pier, UC San Diego’s massive campus, and an abundance of beautiful, multi-million dollar homes. But for tourists, the biggest attraction is La Jolla Cove, which is filled with upscale boutique shops, trendy dining options that overlook the water, and a lot of resident seals. That’s right, you can observe these playful creatures in the wild from a mere 30-40 feet back!
7. Sunset Cliffs
Located on the Southern side of San Diego is Sunset Cliffs. This natural park features coastal cliffs that are lovely to walk along and even better for enjoying a picnic with a view. And as the name suggests, this is the perfect place to round out your day with a stunning view of the sunset over the water. You may even notice a couple of weddings taking place nearby as the views are that magnificent! But don’t worry, there’s plenty of space for everyone to roam around without it feeling too crowded.
Where to Eat in San Diego
San Diego is made up of a diverse blend of people, cultures, and cuisines. As a result, you can find pretty much any type of food that you might be craving. For example, if you’re traveling with friends and looking for a trendy breakfast spot, check out Morning Glory. Meanwhile, if you want to dine with a view of La Jolla Cove, make your way over to Duke’s for some tasty Hawaiian Food.
Where to Stay in San Diego
For a truly exceptional San Diego experience, consider staying at Pendry San Diego. This luxury hotel seamlessly combines modern elegance with a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of San Diego. From its stylishly designed rooms to the rooftop pool and bar, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of sophistication and enjoyment, making your visit to San Diego an unforgettable one. Plus, the hotel is within comfortable walking distance of several attractions, like Balboa Park!
Visit San Diego Today!
San Diego is a city like no other, and it’s no surprise that it is regarded as one of the top travel destinations in the United States. From the many beaches, each with a unique atmosphere, to the vast number of cultural experiences and neighborhoods, there is always something new and exciting to discover in San Diego. So if you want to see what America’s Finest City is all about, be sure to plan your next beach getaway here!
About the Author
Kristin is the owner and author of the travel blog Global Travel Escapades, which aims to inspire and provide helpful information for your next global adventure. She is from Southern California and spent several years living in San Diego, surfing its gorgeous coastline, exploring its wonderful hidden gems, and of course, indulging in all the delicious food.
You can follow Kristin’s travel escapades on Instagram and her travel-focused YouTube channel.
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About Me
I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!
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