The Best Travel Guide to San Diego, California

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San Diego

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North America United States San Diego, California

Overview

San Diego, California The guide was updated: 2023-10-24

San Diego is often called "America’s Finest City," and for good reason. The eighth-largest city in the U.S. offers heaps of attractions, cultural experiences, and an undeniable cosmopolitan vibe. Despite its size, San Diego maintains a laid-back ambiance that is emblematic of Southern California, embodied by its friendly locals and the city's famously perfect climate. With temperatures hovering around the mid-70s (21°C) year-round and abundant sunshine, there is never a bad time to explore its world-renowned museums, indulge in 5-star dining, bask on its internationally acclaimed beaches, and revel in its exceptional hospitality.

Facts

Population:	1.39 million (2022)
Currency:	US Dollar, $1 = 100 cents
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	911
Newspapers:	The San Diego Union-Tribune – www.sandiegouniontribune.com San Diego Reader – www.sandiegoreader.com San Diego Magazine – www.sandiegomagazine.com San Diego Business Journal – www.sdbj.com
Website:	www.sandiegovisit.org
Opening hours:	Independent stores are usually open from 10 am to 6 pm daily. Major malls and shopping centers stay open until 9 pm or longer.
Tourist information:	San Diego Visitor Information Center 996 North Harbor Drive, San Diego Open daily 10am–4pm +1 619 236 1242

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Section in San Diego, California

Unlike the sprawling L.A., San Diego has the feel of a compact city, and it can be tempting to stay downtown. A lot of people, however, think of San Diego in terms of the whole county, which leaves a lot more to be explored. The regional terrain is extraordinary in itself and varies from the Pacific coastline in the west to the Sonoran Desert in the east. Those who travel to the northeast will come across snow-capped mountains, while travelers who visit the south will find themselves just 15 minutes away from the Mexican border. This impressive landscape variety makes the city a top spot for outdoor activities that include: hiking, surfing, biking, and sailing. Plus, the long list of family-friendly attractions, such as LEGOLAND, the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and the New Children's Museum proves that San Diego has something for everyone.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park

Initially called "City Park" and later renamed after a Spanish explorer, Balboa Park is the largest urban cultural park in the United States and it is, without a doubt, the city's cultural hub. Its vast 1,200 acres overlooking downtown San Diego are home to several museums, theaters, beautiful gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. This huge array of cultural institutions makes Balboa Park a must-see during your visit to San Diego.

SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego is an animal theme park, oceanarium, outside aquarium, and marine mammal park attracting thousands of families every year, who come to experience world-class shows, thrilling rides, and many spectacular up-close animal encounters. At SeaWorld San Diego, you get to feed sea lions, swim with beluga whales, and even train a dolphin.

The Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter

Situated in the heart of Downtown San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is the West Coast’s premier entertainment district. This area regained its charm after decades of restoration. Today, you'll find everything here, from trendy shops and restaurants to symphony halls and art galleries to nationally-recognized nightlife venues.

Old Town

Old Town

Soak up some history at "The birthplace of California," sit down for an authentic Mexican meal at an old California-style restaurant, and go back in time and commemorate San Diego's heritage at one of the many historical sites. Old Town San Diego was created in 1769. It was California’s first permanent European settlement on the west coast. Today, this area is filled with colorful shops, live mariachi performers, and many places that recount California's past.

San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo

Renowned worldwide as one of the greatest zoos in the world, The San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,700 rare and endangered animals from over 650 species and subspecies and a botanical collection with more than 700,000 exotic plants. It was a pioneer in implementing the open-air, cageless concept that re-creates natural animal habitats. Animal and nature lovers should not miss out on this unique experience.

Coronado

Coronado

The island-like peninsula of Coronado has been a popular resort destination since the late 19th century. In those days (as today), the main attraction was the Hotel Del Coronado. Built in 1888, this landmark has counted numerous presidents, princes, and celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra, among its guests. Coronado or "The Crown City," as it is also known, attracts tourists from all over the world thanks to the wide coastline of sandy beaches with sparkling sand, courtesy of the mineral Mica.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park offers breathtaking views, hiking spots, and good access to surfers. The Park's topography includes intricately carved coastal bluffs, arches, and sea caves. If you're lucky, you might get to see the California Gray Whale on its annual migration from the Bering Sea to Baja California.

Petco Park

Petco Park

Although Petco Park is home to the San Diego Padres, you don’t have to be a baseball fan to enjoy this venue. The architecturally stunning ballpark, built in 2004, is equally known for its stunning views of San Diego.

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove

Tucked between sandstone cliffs, this small and picturesque cove lies next to one of the most photographed beaches in Southern California. As water visibility at the north end of the cove can reach up to 30 feet in the summer, it has become a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers.

San Diego Bay Waterfront

San Diego Bay Waterfront

San Diego is above all a waterfront city, and a great way to discover the essence of this city is by taking a stroll along the San Diego Bay Waterfront. It consists of parks and several museums including the Maritime Museum of San Diego and the San Diego Air & Space Museum. Besides, there are plenty of seaside bars, restaurants, and, of course, the Port of San Diego. Remember to check out the latest sailing and outdoor events the San Diego Bay hosts every year.

USS Midway Museum

USS Midway Museum

Immerse yourself in the authentic naval experience at the Midway Museum, which is actually the real naval aircraft carrier known as the "city at sea." With over 60 exhibits and more than 30 expertly restored aircraft, visitors can explore the 69,000-ton ship and marvel at its impressive history. The Midway also offers a variety of engaging activities, including flight simulators, ejection seats, guided tours of the bridge, and access to authentic cockpits. As an added bonus, the Midway was also the original filming location for the iconic movie "Top Gun."

Little Italy

Little Italy

San Diego's Little Italy has been a symbol of Italian culture in the U.S. and in San Diego since the 1920s, with Italian families settling in the area. Nowadays, it's a hub of activity, brimming with lively restaurants, craft breweries, urban wineries, and art galleries, making it the ultimate destination for Italian cuisine enthusiasts. Visitors can revel in the weekly Little Italy Mercato, where several blocks are closed off every Saturday to offer fresh produce and gourmet fare. Additionally, each October, San Diego's Italian-American heritage is honored with the vibrant "Little Italy Festa!" festival.

Botanical Building & Lily Pond

Botanical Building & Lily Pond

This historic, domed building built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition held in the city is one of the largest lath structures in the world. It is situated inside Balboa Park, and along with the adjacent Lily Pond and Lagoon provide you with a perfect backdrop for a picture. The garden features 2,100 plants permanently, including fascinating collections of cycads, ferns, orchids, and other tropical plants, as well as seasonal flower displays.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Located right next to the Cabrillo National Monument, this historic lighthouse sits atop a hill that offers incredible views of the various areas around San Diego Bay. It no longer operates as a lighthouse but is open to the public as a museum.

Sailboat Tours

Sailboat Tours

Experience the excitement of sailing while exploring San Diego Bay on an authentic America's Cup racing yacht. With its impressive size and speed, this vessel provides a truly remarkable and unforgettable adventure. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, you can take the helm, operate the winches, or simply hold on tight and enjoy the ride.

Pacific Surf School

Pacific Surf School

San Diego is surrounded by great beaches, making it an ideal place for surfers. Many surf schools offer training and organize camps where tourists can learn how to surf in a safe environment. Pacific Surf School is located on Mission Beach, offering its services to experienced and inexperienced tourists alike.

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