Top Things to Do in San Diego

About the City

Oh, sunny San Diego, a coastal jewel nestled in Southern California, where the weather is nearly perfect year-round, and the vibes are laid-back. But, like any city, it has its quirks and contrasts. Let's dive in, shall we? On one flip-flop clad foot, San Diego boasts breathtaking beaches where surfers carve waves and families play in the soft sand. It's a zoo like no other, the San Diego Zoo, where giant pandas once roamed (alas, they've returned to China). SeaWorld shimmies with dolphins and whales performing aquatic ballet, while the historic Gaslamp Quarter pulses with nightlife that can turn any evening into a spontaneous celebration. This city is also a foodie's paradise, cooking up a storm with fresh seafood and a melting pot of cuisines. Fish tacos on the boardwalk? Yes, please! But oh dear, the traffic can be a nightmare, snailing along the I-5 during rush hour with the tenacity of a stubborn sea lion. And the cost of living? Wallets whimper citywide, as rent prices soar like an eagle (or a seagull stealing your beach snacks). Be warned, parking too is a beast of its own, playing hide and seek with your patience and coins. Yet, with all its ups and downs, San Diego's charm is undeniable. It's a place that can make you swear you'll leave but somehow keeps you coming back for more sunny spells and fish taco feasts.

Things to Do in San Diego

Baja-style Lobster

Food & Drink

Get crackin' with Baja-style lobster, a San Diego delicacy that's a shell of a good time! We're talking about succulent lobster served with warm tortillas, rice, beans, and that oh-so-delicious butter...

Kayaking the Caves

Outdoors

Paddle your heart out as you explore the sea caves of La Jolla by kayak. You'll get up close with local marine life and maybe even paddle through a cave if you're feeling brave!

Unleash Your Inner Artist

The Unexpected

Time to get colorful! Sneak into any of the interactive art classes and workshops in San Diego and create your masterpiece. Who knows, maybe you're the next Picasso!

Sail the San Diego Bay

The Unexpected

Ahoy there! Grab your captain's hat and get ready to set sail on the breezy San Diego Bay. Feel the salty air and maybe even spot a sea lion or two sunbathing!

Tacos on a Secret Beach

The Unexpected

Shh, it's a secret! Hunt down a hidden beach spot and chow down on some delish San Diego tacos. It's the ultimate combo of chill vibes and yum in your tum!

Ghostly Adventures

The Unexpected

Boo! Are you brave enough to dive into San Diego's spooky side? Get the chills and thrills on one of the ghost tours and explore haunted sites. Remember, don't feed the ghosts!

Biking Mission Bay

Outdoors

Feel the coastal breeze in your hair as you pedal around Mission Bay. Get a taste of local life, watch the boats, and soak up the SoCal sun!

Hiking Torrey Pines

Outdoors

Strap on your hiking boots and trek the trails of Torrey Pines. With stunning ocean vistas and unique geological formations, you're in for some epic selfies.

Surfing the Pacific

Outdoors

Hang ten and catch a wave! Surfing is a staple activity in sunny San Diego. Whether you're a gnarly pro or just looking to get your feet wet, this is a phenomenal way to bond with the ocean.

Paragliding Over La Jolla

Outdoors

Soar like a bird over the coastal cliffs of La Jolla. It's a thrill-seeker's dream with killer views. Bonus points if you spot a dolphin!

Korean BBQ Tacos

Food & Drink

Fuse two cultures in one bite with Korean BBQ Tacos! It's a mashup made in heaven, where sizzling Korean-style beef meets the warm embrace of a taco shell, all dressed up with zesty kimchi slaw.

Step Back in Time at the USS Midway Museum

Sights

All aboard for a trip through naval history on a colossal aircraft carrier. The USS Midway Museum is an adventure for landlubbers and sea dogs alike!

Pandas and Polar Bears at San Diego Zoo

Sights

Go wild with all the fuzzy, furry, and feathered friends you can handle. The San Diego Zoo is a jungle of fun, right in Balboa Park!

Surf's Up at La Jolla Shores

Sights

Catch some gnarly waves or just wiggle your toes in the sand. La Jolla Shores is the perfect spot for beach bums and wave warriors alike.

Take a Haunting Tour of the Whaley House Museum

Sights

Sneak a peak at some ghostly residents and get your spooky on. The Whaley House Museum is the ultimate stop for history buffs and Goosebumps fans.

Marvel at the Masterpieces in Balboa Park

Sights

Stroll through gardens, museums, and trails. Balboa Park isn't just green and pretty; it's got culture, science, and a whole lot of charm!

California Burrito

Food & Drink

Dig into the SoCal staple, the California Burrito! Imagine seasoned carne asada snuggled with crispy french fries, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. It's like a beach day in a burrito, my frien...

Acai Bowl Extravaganza

Food & Drink

Lean into the SoCal lifestyle with an acai bowl piled high with fresh fruit and granola. It's like a healthy beach party for your taste buds!

Craft Beer Sampling

Food & Drink

San Diego's craft beer scene is hoppin'! Get ready to sip on world-class IPAs, stouts, and sours in America's craft beer capital. Bottoms up, beer aficionados!

Hidden Cinema Gems

The Unexpected

Forget your typical movie theater experience! Dig into indie films or retro classics at one of San Diego's lesser-known cinemas. It's showtime, baby!