Things To Do
Whale Watching
Encounter some of Earth's most magnificent creatures on a 2–3-hour whale-watching cruise in San Diego. The voyage departs right from Mission Bay, so you’ll be out into the open ocean and looking for animals in just 10 short minutes. Marine biologists onboard help you spot whales and dolphins and learn about their life in the deep blue sea.
Slot Canyons to the Pacific
Explore the slot canyons in Torrey Pines on this guided tour. Discover spectacular, hard-to-reach areas and take in views of the Pacific Ocean. Visit sandstone slot canyons and wind caves on the trek and stop at a majestic grotto with a waterfall. The hike up can be strenuous at times, but you will be rewarded with stunning views after summiting the cliffs.
LEGOLAND California
See your childhood games brought to life at LEGOLAND® California. Boasting more than 60 rides, activities, and live shows, you won’t have any trouble occupying yourself. Between the rollercoasters, water park, and numerous interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Younger children can get creative with soft blocks at DUPLO Playtown. Don't forget to check out the large-scale LEGO models of famous structures from around the world.
San Diego Harbor Cruise
See San Diego’s top sights from the water and save money on transport with this affordable cruise that passes Coronado Bridge, the Naval Base, and sea lions. You’ll learn about the waterway’s importance to the city via narration and enjoy the view indoors or out. With options including a 1- or 2-hour cruise and multiple start times, this cruise fits easily into your sightseeing plans.
Hop on hop off Trolley
This San Diego hop-on hop-off trolley tour provides an easy and affordable way to get around the city. This tour helps you avoid the hassle of finding and paying for parking. The trolley tour, available as a one and two day option, allows you to travel your own itinerary at your own pace. Along with 11 stops around the city, it also includes guided commentary and large, open windows.
San Diego Zoo
Maximize your time inside the world-famous San Diego Zoo, when you purchase your ticket in advance. Show your mobile pass on arrival, then get head for the koalas, pandas, wolves, and almost any other animal you can think of. Observe tigers and gorillas in their respective recreated Asian and African environments. Your pass also includes access to the double-decker bus tour, and Skyfari Aerial Tram. Ticket must be redeemed on travel date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit.
San Diego Botanic Garden
Established in 1970, San Diego Botanic Garden (SDBG) is an urban oasis located in Encinitas, just north of San Diego. The Garden’s 37-acres and 8,000 square foot glass Conservatory display more than 5,300 plant species and varieties. Featuring four miles of pathways, SDBG has the largest public bamboo collection in North America; the largest children’s garden on the West Coast; and 29 uniquely themed gardens representing different regions and flora of the world.
Sports & Recreation
San Diego may be known as a relaxing, kick-off-your-shoes beach destination but the locals have a passion for sports and recreation that runs as deep as the Pacific. An ideal climate, 70 miles of coastline and diverse topography draw outdoor enthusiasts to San Diego year-round. Whether you're looking for a heart-pounding mountain biking excursion, an active surf lesson or even an exhilarating high-flying glide above the cliffs, there's always something exciting and thrilling to watch, do and discover in San Diego. Find the perfect outdoor activities in San Diego for you!
Food & Drink
San Diego's secret is out: San Diego has an amazing food scene! This beautiful beach town is also a dining paradise, and when it comes to news on the latest local restaurants and culinary honors, foodies worldwide are eating it up. As just a sampler plate of accolades: Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards has named San Diego the No. 10 food destination in the United States, while Food & Wine Magazine likewise picked San Diego among the nation's Top 10 cities for dining. And Thrillist Travel has called San Diego one of the Best New Foodie Cities in America.
Beaches and Bays
Discover the best beaches for families and off-leash dogs, beaches coveted by the world’s top surfers and the best beaches for bonfires, bike rides, tide pooling and more. So grab your beach towels, slather on the sunscreen, and get out to explore some of the finest beaches and bays in the world.
Casinos and Gaming
While San Diego is renowned for its world-class attractions and beautiful beaches, what isn't as well known is that San Diego also offers Las Vegas-style casino gaming. Just 30-45 minutes from downtown, San Diego's casinos provide 24/7 Las Vegas-style action and entertainment, with some offering full-service resort facilities, popular outlet centers, luxury spas, golf courses and museums, along with showrooms and live music and comedy.