If you’re searching for old school California vibes, San Diego is the place to go. Palm tree lined streets, a glistening harbor, and miles of beach coastline make it easy to understand why the city’s population continues to grow. Whether you’re planning to visit for a short weekend or a long getaway, there is no shortage of things to do. Check out my top six recommendations below!

Explore Balboa Park

Most people know Balboa Park as home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo, but the park has so much more to offer. The 1,200 acre park dates back to the 1800s and is complete with 16 museums, countless walking paths, and greenspace galore.

The Spanish Revival architecture found throughout the park is absolutely stunning and makes you forget you’re in the middle of a modern city. Many of the buildings are a result of the 1915 Panama–California Exposition which coincided with the opening of the Panama Canal. That period of time is responsible for much of Balboa Park’s present-day aesthetic.

Many of Balboa Park’s main attractions are located along the Prado so start your exploration there. If you’re planning to go to the Zoo, you’ll want to plan for a full day’s visit, if not two. The zoo is enormous and has so much to offer. Plus, the entrance fees aren’t inexpensive so you’ll want to take advantage of the ticket(s) you have.

Highlights

Visit the San Diego Zoo
Admire the architecture of Casa De Balboa
Get Instagram worthy pictures at the Lily Pond
Walk through the botanical gardens
Shop for souvenirs in the Spanish Village Art Center

Make a Trip to La Jolla

La Jolla is a little further away than most San Diego attractions, but it’s worth the trip. Located on the north end of San Diego, the small seaside neighborhood is charming and overflowing with natural beauty. Over the years, it’s become known for its rugged coastline, stunning sunsets and of course, the many seals and sea lions that dot its shores.

The best way to experience La Jolla is by starting in Ellen Browning Scripps Park and walking along the coast in either direction. The views are spectacular and you’re bound to come across wildlife.

If you’re interested in something a little more adventurous, consider visiting Torrey Pines State Reserve. The reserve is home to a number of gorgeous hikes that offer spectacular cliff side views, rare grove tree sightings, and access to hidden beaches. The Beach Trail is a great option if you’re having trouble deciding which trail to choose.

Highlights

See the seals at La Jolla Cove or Children’s Pool Beach
Watch the sunset from Ellen Browning Scripps Park
Go hiking at Torrey Pines State Park
See the views from Mount Soledad
Grab a drink at a waterfront restaurant

People Watch in Ocean Beach

Each of San Diego’s neighborhoods is unique with its own microculture, but Ocean Beach takes that to the extreme. The laid-back beach community is a hipster mecca, characterized by eclectic restaurants, colorful murals, and the longest pier you’ve ever seen. There are tons of beach options in and around San Diego, but Ocean Beach is a favorite amongst locals.

The best way to experience Ocean Beach is to go with the flow without a strict plan in place. Grab some lunch, take a walk on the beach, and people watch. If you’re looking for a place to relax, there are plenty of oceanside restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy the view.

Highlights

Walk the pier
Grab lunch at OB Noodle House
Relax at the beach
Check out the views at Sunset Cliffs

Grab Dinner & Drinks Downtown

San Diego has a number of downtown neighborhoods that are worth a visit. Two that can’t be missed are Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy. Gaslamp Quarter is a lively neighborhood known for its nightlife. Little Italy is the primary culinary neighborhood in the city and is an ideal spot to grab lunch or dinner. If you’re in San Diego over the weekend, consider going to the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market. Every Saturday, rain or shine, the market is open. You’ll find hundreds of tents filled with everything from fresh garlic spreads to homemade kombucha.

Highlights

Visit a brewery (Ballast Point and Mikkeler Brewery are great options)
Go to the Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market
Eat all of the Italian food your heart desires
Explore the many boutiques and galleries

Visit Cabrillo National Monument

Even if you’re not interested in history, the Cabrillo National Monument is worth a visit for the view alone. Located on the hilly peninsula of Point Loma, the park has a number of trails, gorgeous tide pools, and the best view of downtown San Diego you could ask for. For those who ARE partial to history, there are also a number of monuments commemorating California’s history.

If you go, be sure to carve out some time to explore the tide pools. On the western side of Point Loma, the rocky intertidal zone offers breathtaking views that you’ll not want to miss. Consider hiking Bluffs Trail (one mile out and back) if you’re feeling adventurous.

Highlights

Hike Bluffs Trail to see the Point Loma tide pools
Check out the amazing view at the Cabrillo National Monument
Get charmed by the Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Relax on Coronado Island

Coronado Island is home to the famous Hotel de Coronado as well as some of the most expensive real estate in the country. Besides the stunning hotel, Coronado is worth visiting because it’s home to one of the best beaches in San Diego. You can easily spend a whole day soaking up the sun on the island’s wide beachfront, enjoying the incredibly soft sand beneath your toes.

Highlights

Tour the historic Hotel de Coronado
Relax at the beach
Grab a drink and enjoy the view at Del Beach
Enjoy a ferry ride from the island to downtown San Diego

If you’re considering a trip to San Diego, you won’t be disappointed. Every neighborhood is unique and offers a multitude of things to do. You’ll enjoy a trip filled with endless sunshine, kind locals, beautiful scenery, and delicious food.

Top 6 Things to Do in San Diego

Top 6 Things to Do in San Diego