Curator’s statement
San Diego is a vibrant coastal city where sunshine, surf, and culture come together effortlessly. From beach days in La Jolla to nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter, it offers something for every traveler. With its diverse neighborhoods, outdoor adventures, and year-round perfect weather, San Diego is the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again. This guide highlights the best ways to experience the city’s unique charm.
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Things to do in San Diego
Whale watching
Visit Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo: explore lush gardens, historic architecture, and museums in Balboa Park, then head to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo—home to over 12,000 animals in naturalistic habitats.
Take the ferry to Coronado Island: hop on a short ferry ride across the bay to enjoy white-sand beaches, bike rides, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado—a Victorian-era gem.
Tour the USS Midway Museum: climb aboard this historic aircraft carrier and explore restored planes, flight simulators, and naval exhibits right on the San Diego Bay.
Go brewery-hopping in North Park or Little Italy: San Diego is a craft beer capital—sample local brews in two of its trendiest neighborhoods, filled with breweries and gastropubs.
Check out Liberty Station Public Market: a former naval training center turned creative hub—now home to art studios, restaurants, local vendors, and weekend events.
Hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Winding trails lead to dramatic cliffs and ocean views, all framed by rare Torrey pine trees. A must-do for nature lovers and photographers.
Take a harbor cruise or whale watching tour: see the city from the water and get up close with sea life. Whale watching is best from December to April, but harbor tours are great year-round.
Places to eat & drink in San Diego
Fun drinks on a rooftop bar
Modern Times Brewery (Point Loma): A fun, artsy brewery known for its creative beer lineup, plant-based pub food, and eclectic decor. One of the standouts in the city’s craft beer scene.
Born and Raised (Little Italy): A stylish, high-end steakhouse with old-school charm, known for tableside martinis and dry-aged steaks. Great for a special night out.
George’s at the Cove (La Jolla): A San Diego classic with stunning ocean views and upscale California cuisine. Perfect for a sunset dinner or rooftop cocktails.
Hodad’s (Ocean Beach or Downtown): A beloved San Diego burger joint with a fun, surfy vibe. Expect huge, messy burgers and milkshakes—it’s casual, iconic, and full of character.
Juniper and Ivy (Little Italy): Modern American cuisine with a constantly rotating menu, run by Top Chef alum Richard Blais. Known for bold flavors and creative plating.
Las Cuatro Milpas (Barrio Logan): A no-frills, cash-only spot serving some of the city’s best homemade tortillas and Mexican comfort food. A local favorite since 1933.
Need to know
Pack layers—even in summer: San Diego has mild, beautiful weather, but mornings and evenings near the coast can be cool. Bring a light jacket, especially if you’re going to the beach or dining outdoors at night.
Renting a car helps (but isn’t always necessary).
If you plan to explore beyond downtown—like La Jolla, Torrey Pines, or North County beaches—a car is very useful. But if you’re staying central (Gaslamp, Little Italy, Mission Bay), you can rely on rideshares, trolleys, and walking.
Watch for parking fees and street signs: Metered parking and time limits are strictly enforced, especially near beaches and downtown. Use apps like ParkMobile, or consider garages in areas like La Jolla or Gaslamp to avoid tickets.
Eat like a local—try Mexican food off the tourist path: San Diego has excellent Mexican food. Go beyond the obvious—try taco shops like Tacos El Gordo, Las Cuatro Milpas, or Lucha Libre Taco Shop for authentic bites.
San Diego is super dog-friendly: Bringing your pup? Many restaurants, breweries, and beaches welcome dogs (check out Dog Beach in Ocean Beach). It’s a great city for pet lovers.
Bonus tips:
Best beach times: Mornings are calm, but afternoon sun is best for beach weather. Avoid weekends at popular beaches unless you go early.
Save with the Go City Pass if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions (Zoo, SeaWorld, USS Midway, etc.).
Don’t skip sunset: Sunset Cliffs, Mount Soledad, and Pacific Beach all offer incredible views. Aim to be in place about 30 minutes before the sun dips.
Tijuana day trip? Yes, it’s doable! Bring your passport and check wait times for border crossings if you’re up for a cross-border food and culture adventure.
Travel Advisor
Italia Dutton
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our San Diego page.