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Things to do in San Diego, California, USA

Printable guide

Picture yourself in a beautiful city by the bay - ships in the harbour, sparkling ocean, a warm, sunny day with cool breezes and views of surrounding mountains. You've just imagined your way to San Diego, California. San Diego is eclectic and diverse, and it's that diversity that makes it such an exciting place to visit. Known for its warm Southern California beaches, surfers, and beautiful coastline, San Diego is famous for having nearly perfect Mediterranean weather. Locals will tell you its atmosphere is laid-back and relaxed, especially in comparison to its neighbouring (and more glamorous) sister city, Los Angeles.
Depending on your interests, a trip to the city might include the world renowned San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Historic Old Town, Coronado Island, a cruise on the bay or a visit to one of the many gorgeous beaches. For some spectacular views of the city and the bay, you might visit Pt. Loma Lighthouse and Cabrillo National Monument.
San Diego offers natural beauty, cultural attractions, and excellent wine and dining experiences. With mountains to the east, rolling hills all around, and cliffs that glide into the glistening Pacific, you too may fall in love with this lazy "SoCal" beach town.
It's possible to get around town without a rental car, but it's difficult to see a lot of the main attractions this way because they're so spread out. There are several areas of town that are conducive to walking and exploration, however these aren't close to the big-name sights. Public transportation is available, but be aware that you may have to transfer from one bus to another, from the trolley to the bus, etc.
A couple of things to keep in mind if you do rent a car: compared with other large cities, San Diego's highway system is easy to manoeuvre, so don't feel intimidated. Don't miss cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway (also called Highway 101), which hugs the coast and is an enjoyable alternative to other routes north and south. Look for blue and white signs marked with a seagull for stunning routes along the 59-mile scenic drive.


Top Attractions in San Diego, USA

Balboa Park
1549 El Prado in Balboa Park, City
(+1) 619 239 0512
San Diego Zoo
Corner of Zoo Drive and Park Boulevard, Balboa Park, City
(+1) 619 231 1515
Wild Animal Park
15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido
(+1) 760 747 8702
Sea World
500 SeaWorld Drive, City
(+1) 800 25 SHAMU
Old Town San Diego
San Diego Avenue at Twiggs Street, City
(+1) 619 220 5422
Point Loma Lighthouse and Cabrillo National Monument
1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, City
(+1) 619 557 5450
Gaslamp Quarter
Corner of Broadway Street and 6th Street, City

Best Hotels in San Diego, USA

Sheraton Harbor Island
1380 Harbor Island Drive, City
(+1) 619 291 2900
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado
(+1) 619 435 6611
Bahia Resort Hotel
998 West Mission Bay Drive, City
(+1) 800 576 4229

Hot/hip Bars & Clubs in San Diego, USA

South Beach Bar & Grill
5059 Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach
(+1) 619 226 4577
Lime
653 Fifth Avenue, City
(+1) 619 238 LIME
Wave House
3127 1/2 Ocean Front Walk, Mission Beach
(+1) 858 228 WAVE

Best Restaurants in San Diego, USA

Osetra the Fishhouse
904 5th Avenue, City
(+1) 619 239 1800
George's at the Cove
1250 Prospect Street, La Jolla
(+1) 858 454 4244
Island Prime Metro Steaks & Seafood / C Level Lounge
880 Harbor Island Drive, City
(+1) 619 298 6802
Rubio's Mexican Grill
4504 E. Mission Bay Drive, City
(+1) 858 272 2801
Hodad's
5010 Newport Avenue, Ocean Beach
(+1) 619 224 4623

Tempting Cafés in San Diego, USA

The Living Room Coffee House
1010 Prospect Street, La Jolla
(+1) 858 459 1187

Shopping Hotspots in San Diego, USA

Horton Plaza
West F Street and First Street, City
(+1) 619 239 8180
Mission Valley Shopping Centre
1640 Camino del Rio North, City
(+1) 619 296 6375

Airports in San Diego, USA

Lindbergh Field
3665 North Harbor Drive, City
(+1) 619 400 2400



The city guide for San Diego is Angie Harman. We do not accept payment or rewards for listing particular businesses on this page.


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