Once home to not one but two World’s Fairs, Balboa Park has it all: gardens, museums, an outdoor organ amphitheater, great walking, and it’s right next to the zoo.
San Diego has no shortage of beaches—here are a few favorites: La Jolla Visit the Cove for tide pools, coastal views, and a chance to say hi to the seals. A truly iconic and picturesque beach town. Encinitas Where we once lived! Home to three wonderful beaches—Swami’s, Moonlight State Beach, and San Elijo State Beach—plus a cute, walkable downtown and a lovely botanical garden. Coronado Island Cross the bridge to Coronado for stunning views of the San Diego skyline, wide sandy beaches, and the historic Victorian Hotel del Coronado (rumored to be haunted!). Oceanside A classic North County beach town with a long pier, skate park, and an easy-to-walk downtown full of local spots.