If you're brainstorming ideas on where to go on your next vacation, consider San Diego. With its idyllic weather year-round, beautiful sun-drenched beaches, and many cultural and historical attractions, San Diego is a perfect option for tourists.
The second most populous city in Southern California simply has something to offer for everyone, no matter your vacation style. Here are the most compelling reasons to visit San Diego and the top attractions everyone should see once in the city.
Why You Need To Visit San Diego
One of the great things about a city like San Diego is that there are so many things to see, do, and eat. As the oldest city in California, San Diego can't be beaten when it comes to choosing a Pacific coast getaway.
1. The Beaches: Feel the Ocean Breeze on Pacific or Mission Beach
California is well-known for its pristine beaches and stunning ocean views that visitors can enjoy all year. The city's most famous beaches are Pacific Beach and Mission Beach, two of the three beaches that make up Silver Strand. This sandy isthmus is 7 miles long, and it shelters and defines the San Diego area.
Both Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are abundant in beach activities. You can go surfing, swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and more. Taking a stroll is another activity you may not want to miss in this stunning location.
Ocean Front Walk, a paved trail that runs over the entirety of the beaches, is a popular spot for walking, running, and biking. Lined with shops and restaurants, it makes a perfect location for you to enjoy the sea breeze and abundant sunshine alongside the beach. You can finish the day by watching the sun sink on the horizon at sunset.
2. The Climate: Experience Perfect Weather Any Time of Year
San Diego has a mild climate marked by short, dry summers and long, cool winters. Although the best time to visit San Diego is during the summer, from June to October, you can always take a trip to the city because of the pleasant climate.
The average temperature in San Diego usually hovers around 73°F, with very few days below 44° or above 84°, so it's a perfect year-round vacation destination even when temps are freezing or sweltering in your home city.
The weather in California is fairly dry, with the wettest months being from November to April. Outside of that, you're sure to see sunshine when you visit San Diego.
3. The Attractions: Spend a Day at the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld
If you're looking for an adventure the whole family will love, take a walk on the wild side and check out the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld San Diego.
The San Diego Zoo is located in Balboa Park and is home to more than 12,000 animals. This zoo is committed to conservation and has one of the biggest zoological membership programs in the world. Here, you can get an up-close look at more than 650 species of animals, either by touring the zoo on your own or opting for organized tours the zoo offers.
If you want to experience something unique, hop on over to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. With several different tours available, you can explore the wilds of Africa in the San Pasqual Valley of Southern California. This includes close encounters with animals like giraffes, elephants, and big cats.
To cool off during hot summer days, splash into the depths of SeaWorld San Diego, a theme park that has thrilling rides, educational attractions, and marine mammal presentations. Here, you'll find animals like orcas, dolphins, and sea lions and learn more about them through entertaining and informational exhibits.
4. The History: Step Into a Unique Past Time at Every Museum
History buffs may ask themselves, "why visit San Diego?" Home to many different museums, the city offers you an exciting story around every corner, with a rich maritime and military history.
The two most popular museums in San Diego are the Maritime Museum of San Diego and the USS Midway Museum. The former has one of the largest collections of historic ships and sea vessels in the country. Named one of the top attractions in the US, the Maritime Museum is home to the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship.
At the USS Midway Museum, you can explore life at sea on a real naval aircraft carrier. Located in downtown San Diego, this museum houses other aircraft and has several exhibits and activities.
5. The Culture: Attend Balboa Park, Seaport Village, or Belmont Park
To really experience San Diego, you have to take a deep dive into its culture. Your first stop should be Balboa Park, a historic cultural park with delightful green spaces, gardens, museums, and theaters. The park also has plenty of restaurants with delicious food and gift shops. You can easily spend hours walking around Balboa Park, admiring the architecture, relaxing in the gardens, or checking out its many attractions.
Your second stop should be Seaport Village, a shopping and dining complex in downtown San Diego located right on the waterfront. Here, you'll find more than 70 stores, restaurants, and galleries that offer beautiful views of the San Diego Bay. The architecture of Seaport Village is a compelling mix of styles, including traditional Mexican and Victorian. Explore the pedestrian-friendly walking paths along the water, and enjoy shopping and dining in the Village while listening to the magic of street performers.
Last but not least, Belmont Park is a historic amusement park that offers fun activities for everybody. It also has rides and attractions dating back to the park's origins in 1925, which makes it even more attractive. Located right on the waterfront and rich in dining options and rides for all ages, Belmont Park is one of the places to visit in San Diego for families.
Do More and Save More On Your Next Trip With a Ticket Bundle
If you want to visit San Diego and make the most of your trip, consider getting a bundle of tickets to the top attractions instead of spending more money on single passes. San Diego CityPASS® tickets offer you prepaid admission to the best locations in San Diego, from SeaWorld to the Maritime Museum, so you can see everything you desire without breaking the bank.
With San Diego CityPASS® tickets, you can save up to on admission to San Diego attractions without sacrificing fun or any of the locations. Get your tickets early and make your visit to San Diego more affordable and unforgettable.
San Diego Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in San Diego, we recommend finding lodging near San Diego's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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