35+ Amazing Things to Do in San Diego
Introduction
San Diego isn’t just a city—it’s a sun-drenched playground with endless adventures! 🌴 Whether you crave oceanfront relaxation, thrilling attractions, or world-class food, America’s Finest City delivers. But with so many options, how do you choose?
This guide covers the absolute best things to do in San Diego, including hidden gems, family-friendly spots, and iconic experiences. Let’s make your trip unforgettable!
Top Things to Do in San Diego: Ultimate Bucket List
🏖️ 1. Soak Up the Sun at San Diego’s Best Beaches
San Diego’s coastline is legendary. Don’t miss:
- Pacific Beach (PB) – Lively boardwalk, great for surfing & nightlife.
- La Jolla Shores – Perfect for kayaking & snorkeling with leopard sharks (seasonal).
- Coronado Beach – Soft white sand & iconic Hotel Del views.
- Mission Beach – Classic SoCal vibe with Belmont Park’s roller coaster.
Pro Tip: Visit Windansea Beach for secluded beauty (locals’ favorite!).
🎡 2. Explore Balboa Park (A Must-Do!)
This 1,200-acre urban oasis is packed with:
- San Diego Zoo (one of the world’s best!)
- 17 museums (like the Air & Space Museum)
- Spanish Village Art Center (colorful artist studios)
- Free organ concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings (fewer crowds).
🍻 3. Sip Craft Beer on a Brewery Tour
San Diego is America’s Craft Beer Capital with 150+ breweries. Top picks:
- Stone Brewing (Escondido) – Stunning garden patio.
- Ballast Point (Little Italy) – Famous for Sculpin IPA.
- Modern Times (Point Loma) – Funky, retro vibes.
🍺 Try This: A brewery crawl in North Park (10+ breweries in walking distance).
🦈 4. Kayak with Sea Lions in La Jolla
Paddle through La Jolla’s sea caves for an unforgettable experience:
- Spot leopard sharks (summer only, they’re harmless!).
- Get up close with sea lions & seals.
- Best Tour: La Jolla Kayak (guided trips).
💰 Budget Tip: Rent a kayak and DIY if you’re experienced.
🎢 5. Ride the Giant Dipper at Belmont Park
A historic wooden roller coaster right on Mission Beach!
- Built in 1925 (still thrilling!).
- Mini-golf, arcade, & beachfront dining nearby.
- Free entry (pay per ride or get a day pass).
Best For: Families & adrenaline junkies.
🌅 6. Watch Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
One of California’s most breathtaking sunset spots:
- Hidden sea caves (explore at low tide).
- Romantic picnic spots along the cliffs.
- Free parking near Ladera St.
📸 Pro Tip: Arrive 1 hour before sunset for the best photos.
⚓ 7. Tour the USS Midway Museum
Step aboard a real aircraft carrier with:
- 60+ restored aircraft to explore.
- Flight simulators & veteran-led tours.
- Skyline views from the flight deck.
Fun Fact: The USS Midway served for 47 years!
🌮 8. Eat Your Way Through Old Town
The birthplace of California is a foodie paradise:
- Best Mexican food (try Casa Guadalajara).
- Free tortilla-making demos at Old Town Market.
- Mariachi bands & folklorico dancing (weekends).
Must-Try Dish: Carne asada fries (a San Diego staple!).
🐋 9. Go Whale Watching (Seasonal)
San Diego is one of the best places in the world to see:
- Gray whales (Dec–Apr).
- Blue whales (summer).
- Dolphins & orcas (year-round).
Top Tour: Hornblower Cruises (guaranteed sightings!).
🚲 10. Bike the Mission Bay Boardwalk
A scenic 12-mile loop with:
- Waterfront views & beach stops.
- Rentals available (bikes, surreys, skates).
- Perfect for sunrise rides.
🚴 Best Route: Start at Mission Beach and loop around Fiesta Island.
More Unique Things to Do in San Diego
🎭 11. Catch a Show at The Old Globe Theatre
- Shakespearean theater in Balboa Park.
- Tony Award-winning productions.
🍷 12. Wine Tasting in Temecula (Day Trip)
- 40+ wineries just 1 hour away.
- Best Pick: Ponte Winery (great views).
🌵 13. Hike Torrey Pines State Reserve
- 8 miles of coastal trails.
- Rare Torrey pine trees.
🛍️ 14. Shop at Seaport Village
- 50+ quirky boutiques.
- Waterfront carousel & live music.
🎶 15. Experience a Live Music Scene
- Casbah (indie rock).
- Humphreys by the Bay (outdoor concerts).
San Diego Itinerary Ideas
🗓️ 1-Day Itinerary
- Morning: Balboa Park & Zoo
- Afternoon: La Jolla Kayaking
- Evening: Sunset Cliffs + Gaslamp Dinner
🌴 3-Day Weekend Trip
- Day 1: Beaches & USS Midway
- Day 2: Safari Park & Temecula Wineries
- Day 3: Hiking & Old Town
Final Thoughts
San Diego is packed with adventures, flavors, and breathtaking sights—whether you’re here for a weekend or a week. From kayaking with sea lions to sipping craft beer under the sun, this list ensures you’ll experience the best of SD.
Ready to explore? Book your trip today and dive into the ultimate San Diego experience! ✈️
FAQs About Things to Do in San Diego
1. What is the #1 thing to do in San Diego?
Balboa Park (for culture) or La Jolla Cove (for nature).
2. Is San Diego a walkable city?
Downtown & beach areas are walkable, but renting a car helps for distant spots.
3. What is free in San Diego?
- Balboa Park gardens
- Old Town historic sites
- Sunset Cliffs
4. What food is San Diego famous for?
- Fish tacos
- California burritos
- Craft beer
