San Diego has got it all. With its warm weather, gorgeous beaches, cultural spots, and the best Mexicali cuisine, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this awesome California coastal city.

Known for its beautiful waterfront and an abundance of museums from maritime to modern art, San Diego has that relaxed surfer vibe.

Another thing that’s seems a constant in San Diego is the weather, it rarely rains. And with temps ranging from mid-60s to mid-70s, you’re pretty much guaranteed comfortable weather when you visit.

Here is my list of 12 best things to do in San Diego.

Best Things to Do in San Diego

1. Balboa Park

One of the most visited urban parks in the US, Balboa Park lives up to the hype.

With over 1,200 acres of beautiful plants to Spanish inspired architecture to explore, consider putting Balboa on your itinerary more than once.

Balboa is a favorite spot with visitors and locals alike.

The park is also home to some of the best museums in San Diego such as the Natural History Museum and the San Diego Museum of Art.

With so many things to do at Balboa Park in San Diego you’ll want to visit more than once

2. Gaslamp Quarter

Want an awesome night out? Then head to the Gaslamp Quarter.

This historic part of town is home to some of the best restaurants and shops in the city.

It also has the best nightlife with clubs, bars, and live music, making it one of the most fun things to do in San Diego after dark.

Don’t forget to pause for a second and look up at the buildings – you’ll see some of the best architecture in the city.

3. Coronado Beach

Slow down your pace with a visit to Coronado Island. It has a laid back vibe where you can enjoy the beach or check out the shops in the quaint town.

The white sandy Coronado Beach (also known as Central Beach) offers almost two miles of shoreline to enjoy.

No matter the time of year, the soft sand invites you to take off your shoes as you stroll along the water.

You can’t miss the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

And Coronado Beach is the perfect place to finish up the day with a stroll on the beach watching the sunset.

Coronado Beach is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or go for a beach walk at sunset

4. Chicano Park

Chicano Park is an important place in the community and history of San Diego.

Its gorgeous murals tell the story of the strength and vibrancy of the neighborhood.

Before you visit, it may be a good idea to catch up on the story of the park and its surrounding area. The Chicano Park website also has a map of the murals.

No matter how much research you do beforehand, this park has a powerful message and is definitely one of the best places to see in San Diego.

5. La Jolla Shores Beach

One of the best beaches in San Diego has to be La Jolla Shores Beach.

This mile long shoreline is the picturesque beach scene we all think about when dreaming of Cali.

The white, soft sand. The clear blue water. That’s it!

Attentive lifeguards, public restrooms, and rental places means that besides looking pretty, La Jolla Shores Beach is one of the best family friendly things to do in San Diego.

One of the beautiful beaches to visit from San Diego, La Jolla Shores is a favorite

6. Silver Strand State Beach

Located on the southern side of Coronado Island, Silver Strand State Beach is a favorite for folks with RVs and Campers but it’s also great for day trips to the beach.

And it’s no wonder – the view from the beach is magnificent. Even if you’re not planning to set up for the night, the beach is a delight.

Grab your boogie board and hit the surf.

Or simply enjoy a walk on the beach with your toes in the soft sand. You’re likely to find some treasures like seashells or even sand dollars.

And it’s a great location to stick around and watch the sunset.

7. Torrey Pines

The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is an absolute must-see for anyone traveling to San Diego. In fact, Torrey Pines is also a local favorite.

What makes Torrey Pines so special? It’s 1,500 acres of undisturbed landscape on the Pacific Coast.

A hike on any of Torrey Pines trails will be rewarded with incredible views of the ocean, landscape, as well as the plants and wildlife.

If you’re a golfer, you know that Torrey Pines also houses the world-famous golf course.

Explore more great day trips from San Diego.

Torrey Pines is the perfect place to spend a day while visiting San Diego

8. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Step back in time with a visit to Old Town San Diego.

This beautifully restored area has the history and fun you’re looking for, making it one of the best things to do in San Diego.

As the site of the first Spanish settlement in California, buildings and homes are a feast for the eyes.

Beyond the historical aspect, Old Town is packed with great places to eat and lovely shops to peruse.

9. Mission Beach

Mission Beach is one of the most popular beaches in San Diego.

It’s no wonder why – with great sand, surf, and sun you’re bound to have a great time. Located just 15 minutes north of downtown, you’ll be there in no time.

And, as it’s literally on a sandbar between the Pacific and Mission Bay it’s an awesome location. The boardwalk, pier and Belmont Park are all right there for you to enjoy too.

Mission Beach San Diego best things to do.

A short drive from downtown San Diego brings you to beautiful Mission Beach

10. Visit Museums

San Diego has tons of museums throughout the city.

Many offer in depth looks at the history of San Diego as a bustling seaport and military post.

Step aboard historical ships and submarines at The Maritime Museum or explore a real aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum.

The Air and Space Museum focuses on the history of flight from hot-air balloons to space shuttles While the Natural History Museum is the place to get into the science of things.

There’s also the Model Railroad Museum and the Automotive Museum. Really, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

11. Waterfront Park

Waterfront Park is a wonderful way to unwind and cool off right in downtown San Diego.

With an interactive splash fountain and a new playground, it’s a great place for families to come and let the kids be kids.

Located right on the Pacific, the Waterfront Park will give you the best view of the ocean and also keep you cool in the hot Cali sun without the need to get wet.

San Diego skyline is always gorgeous

12. Mount Soledad

A visit to Mount Soledad is a definite must-do in San Diego.

This beautiful monument is perched high above La Jolla, offering a 360 view of the entire area making it one of the best in the entire city.

More importantly, the message of this site is powerful and moving – giving thanks to veterans past and present.

Final Thoughts

San Diego is a city with so much to do and see. Plus, you can’t beat the California coast for sublime beaches and sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. With a variety of fun things to do for all ages San Diego is a great vacation spot on the West Coast.

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