San Diego, Your Way: Sun, Strolls & Something Good at Every Turn

A fun day in the San Diego sun—San Diego’s coastal escape

There’s no better way to experience San Diego than by embracing its coastal energy. Whether you’re in town for a few days or just looking for the perfect beach day, these sun-soaked spots offer everything from laid-back lounging to active adventure—all with postcard-worthy views.

• Coronado Beach: Coronado Beach is famous for its sparkling white sand and wide, clean shoreline. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful beach day. Stroll past the iconic Hotel del Coronado, rent a beach cruiser, or simply relax with a picnic under an umbrella.

• Mission Beach: Mission Beach is San Diego’s version of a beachside amusement park—literally. With the historic Belmont Park (roller coasters and arcades included), a bustling boardwalk, and plenty of beach volleyball, it’s ideal for travelers who like their beach days active and social.

• Pacific Beach: PB is where beach town energy meets boho-chic. You’ll find surfers riding waves early in the morning, brunch spots buzzing by late morning, and the boardwalk packed with energy well into sunset. It’s great for groups, friend getaways, or anyone who loves a vibrant coastal scene.

• Torrey Pines State Beach: Located just north of La Jolla, Torrey Pines offers unspoiled cliffs, hiking trails, and wild coastline. This is the beach for travelers who want a blend of beach time and outdoor adventure. After hiking the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, you can descend the trail straight onto the sand for a refreshing dip.

Nature & culture, side by side: parks & museums to explore

• San Diego Botanic Garden: A lush botanical wonderland featuring themed gardens and rare plant species. Excellent for incentive groups, photo ops, or quiet reflection away from the event bustle.

• San Diego Zoo & Safari Park: Iconic, globally recognized, and ideal for post‑conference excursions. Offers memorable experiences that elevate any meeting or travel program.

• Kate Sessions Memorial Park: Located above Pacific Beach, this park provides sweeping city and ocean views—an idyllic setting for outdoor teas, team‑building, or sunrise wellness activities.

San Diego Balboa Park:

• Botanical Building: Historic 1915 lath structure in Balboa Park housing over 2,100 plants. A charming, photogenic stop for delegates interested in heritage and horticulture.

• Spanish Village Art Center: Located in Balboa Park, this colorful artist colony fosters creativity and offers original handcrafted art—an appealing “off‑beat” stop for group itineraries.

• Japanese Friendship Garden: A peaceful, beautifully landscaped garden inspired by San Diego’s sister‑city relationship with Yokohama: ideal for cultural programming or small‑group breakout experiences.

• Comic‑Con Museum: Celebrating pop culture and creativity year‑round, this museum offers a dynamic, modern option for incentive groups or themed social‑events outside of standard venues.

Brunch & breakfast spots

• Citizen Public Market: Located in a beautifully restored 1929 building, this food hall showcases a variety of local vendors offering fresh, craft‑made fare. It’s perfect for groups, early arrivals, or casual brunch networking.

• ASA Bakery: Artisanal breads, pastries, and specialty coffees turned out with finesse. A relaxed, refined spot for morning meetings or recovery breakfasts after a conference day.

• Woody’s Breakfast and Burgers: A laid‑back beach‑adjacent eatery offering hearty breakfasts and casual comfort food, ideal for delegates who want a no‑fuss meal near the surf.

• Hinard Dessert & Bar Cafe: Sophisticated dessert bar and café that transitions into an evening bar scene. A perfect after‑dinner gathering spot for incentive travelers or networking socials.

 Dinner & evening spots

• Baja Beach Cafe: Right on the Pacific Beach boardwalk, this casual hotspot is known for margaritas, Mexican food, and breezy ocean vibes—great for evening group events or casual dinners.

• Pacific Beach Alehouse: A local favorite with house-brewed beers, rooftop views, and hearty entrees—perfect for informal team dinners or casual client entertainment.

• Draft South Mission: Located steps from the sand, Draft offers craft beers, burgers, and big-screen sports—ideal for post-event wind-downs or laid-back networking nights.