Things To Do in San Diego

Next to theme parks and beaches being the top priority of things to do for visitors, San Diego offers an endless list of unique activities and excursions. One of the most beautiful areas in San Diego is La Jolla and specifically, La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores, which are packed with some of the most remarkable things to do in San Diego. Take a day to spend some time observing the waves crashing into the cliffs roofed with pods of sea lions and rent some snorkeling gear so you can get an up-close encounter with the stunning marine life. You can then head five miles up the coast to Torrey Pines State Park. Here you can spend some time spectating at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, and if you are up for a bit of adrenaline, take a tandem paragliding flight for a view that you will never forget!

For those that want to get in their daily workout while exploring some of the most scenic southern California mountains, head to one of the trailheads and go for a hike in one of the most biologically rich counties in the U.S. There are many trails suited for all levels of hikers.

Although it is great to plan your things to do in San Diego around adventure, San Diego and the California lifestyle also cater greatly to people wanting a vacation full of relaxation and leisure time. Take a few days to relax at a beachfront resort, book a sunset dinner cruise, take a casual stroll through Seaport Village, or enjoy the views on a San Diego city tour.

Although San Diego goes an average of 260 days without rain throughout the year, if you happen to be visiting when it comes down, do not fret. There are still plenty of things to do in San Diego when it is raining! Spend some time at the San Diego Natural History Museum and then head right across the street to the San Diego Museum of Man located in the notable Balboa Park. There is also plenty of indoor recreation such as adventure golf, puzzle escape rooms, indoor skydiving, painting classes, indoor rock gyms, and trampoline parks.

As there is so much to see and so many things to do in San Diego, you can also opt for going on tours. San Diego offers numerous tours such as trolley tours of Old Town, brewery tours, and the unique SEAL tour where you will be in a Hydra-Terras that will pick you up as a vehicle and drive into the water and be your boat.

No matter the circumstances or type of things to do you are looking for, San Diego has it all! Navigate through the menu on the left to get details of the things to do in San Diego that spark your excitement to start planning your visit to America’s Finest City.

Balboa Park Trolley
Things To Do In San Diego

1. SUP Coronado


Coronado's first operation dedicated entirely to Stand Up Paddle (SUP) ocean surfing and flat water guided tours, lessons and rentals.



2. San Diego Surf School


San Diego Surf School was founded in 2000 and is the leading surf school in Southern California. San Diego Surf School is the place to come for quality, safe and fun surf lessons for all ages and levels. We teach that surfing is not just a sport, but a remedy for life.



3. Mesa Rim Climbing & Fitness Center


Mesa Rim Climbing & Fitness Center is a premier facility for indoor rock climbing, yoga, and fitness.



4. So Diego Tours


Whether you're looking for San Diego culinary tours to whet your appetite, sightseeing tours, bachelor/bachelorette party fun, or even a fun way to celebrate a corporate event, we have a tour right for you.



5. Glitter Tribe Studios


Each dance and fitness class is geared towards aspiring burlesque performers, experienced burlesque performers, and anyone who is interested in having fun while getting in showgirl shape!



6. Balboa Park


Balboa park is a 1,200 acre urban cultural park located just minutes from downtown San Diego and houses attractions such as the San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Zoo, botanical gardens, theaters, historical buildings, and much more.



7. Sky's the Limit Ballooning Adventures


Our experienced crew and FAA commercial licensed pilots are ready to take you on a journey surpassing any adventure you have encountered.



8. San Diego Natural History Museum


Out vision is to interpret the natural world through research, education and exhibits; to promote understanding of the evolution and diversity of southern California and the peninsula of Baja California; and to inspire in all a respect for nature and the environment.



9. Tiki Town Adventure Golf


Tiki Town Adventure Golf, located in San Diego is the newest addition to to Belmont Park. This tropical themed 18-hole interactive course takes golfers indoors and outdoors on an island adventure with surprises around every turn.



10. The Great Room Escape


The Great Room Escape is a fully interactive and immersive experience unlike anything you have ever done before. No longer do you sit back and watch the show, now you are 100% part of it.



11. San Diego Zoo Safari Park


1800 acre wildlife preserve houses over 3500 animals representing 260 species and is a botanical garden.



12. Skateworld San Diego


Skateworld San Diego is the proud home to the best roller skating in Southern California.



13. USS Midway Museum


Prepare yourself for a lifetime memory aboard San Diego's top attraction. You'll explore a floating city at sea and relive nearly 50 years of world history aboard the longest-serving Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century.



14. San Diego Sailing Tours


Whether you’re looking for a fully catered romantic sunset cruise for the 2 of you, an afternoon on the water with friends, or want to take the family out on the bay, we’ve got packages for everyone and every budget.



15. Skydive San Diego


Freefalling for approximately 1 minute, you will taste adventure you never thought existed! Your instructor will deploy the parachute at about 5000 feet, and you will then enjoy a 5-6 minute parachute flight over Southern California’s stunning scenery.



16. Cafe Topes


WE ARE PROUD TO SHARE WITH YOU OUR FAMILY'S RECIPES, AND OUR STYLE OF NEW AMERICAN WITH A MODERN TWIST ON YOUR FAVORITE BREAKFAST AND LUNCH COMBINATIONS SINCE 2013. COME EAT LIKE FAMILY WITH US HERE AT CAFE TOPES!



17. Another Side of San Diego Tours


Our team of travel experts know the San Diego inside and out. They will ensure that you will experience the best we have to offer.



18. SD Expeditions


Join us for an amazing afternoon snorkeling in La Jolla. Our expert snorkel guides ensure your comfort and safety in the water, while also showing you all the amazing animals in our oceans.



19. La Jolla Zip Zoom


A fun adventure for the whole family, LA JOLLA ZIP ZOOM is a two hour guided tour featuring four thrilling zipline courses.



20. San Diego Zoo


The 100-acre (40-hectare) Zoo is home to more than 3,500 rare and endangered animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies, and a prominent botanical collection with more than 700,000 exotic plants. It is located just north of downtown San Diego in Balboa Park.



21. Gaslamp Quater


As the West Coast’s premier entertainment district, guests can immerse themselves in our rich Victorian architecture and history, dine with world-renowned chefs, and dance the night away at nationally recognized nightlife venues.



22. Sky Zone San Diego


Come fly high and have fun in the Foam Zone, Ultimate Dodgeball, SkySlam, free jump, and more and Sky Zone San Diego!



23. Corporate Helicopters


Experience San Diego from the sky with Corporate Helicopters! Our exhilarating tours are perfect for special occasions, business networking, romantic dates, marriage proposals, family fun and more.



24. Menehune Surf


We offer private individual and private group lessons in La Jolla and Del Mar. At Menehune, we are stoked to take you anywhere your surfing journey leads!



25. iFly San Diego


Experience the feeling of freefall as you float on a smooth cushion of air. There’s no parachute, no jumping, and nothing attaching you to planet Earth. It’s just you FLYING in the air. Super fun, super safe and super cool!



26. San Diego Museum of Man


Transform your mind through great exhibits at the San Diego Museum of Man! Our mission is to inspire human connections by exploring the human experience.



27. Performance Archery


We are San Diego’s premier archery headquarters. Our goal is to provide you with the best possible equipment and customer service to help you achieve your archery goals.



28. Speed Boat Adventures


Take the wheel and become the captain of your very own speed boat with this one of a kind never to be forgotten adventure tour.



29. San Diego Brewery & Beer Tours


Going on our tours, you'll enjoy safe and comfortable bus ride, a VIP brewery visits, beer education about brewery and a understanding of San Diego beer culture!



30. Urban Jungle Fun Park


Urban Jungle is unlike anything you have ever seen before. Our Urban City metropolis is filled with adrenaline inducing, high adventure activities designed for kids of all ages. Come experience the ultimate in family friendly entertainment where participating URBANITES move from one activity to another.



31. Fly Guys Watersports


We are San Diego’s premier flyboarding destination. We provide the ultimate experience for thrill seekers and action enthusiasts. If you enjoy jet skis, boats, snowboarding, paddle boarding, surfing or just swimming in the water, flyboarding in San Diego is a must.



32. Coronado Beach


Coronado Beach runs along Ocean Boulevard, and is the backdrop of the beautiful classic red roof Victorian Hotel del Coronado. It's an iconic spot for surfers, swimmer and families as well as it is training grounds for the U.S. Navy SEALS.



33. Pacific Beach


Pacific Beach offers some of the best surfing during the day and some of the best bars and restaurants at night.



34. Bang Bang


The tunneled stairway entrance, reminiscent of a Tokyo subway station, will bring you into Bang Bang’s unique dimension to create a memorable experience with our excellent service, outstanding food and drink, and our unparalleled hospitality.



35. Dublin Square Irish Pub


Snug in the corner of San Diego's Fourth Avenue, Dublin Square Irish Pub was manufactured by O'Sullivan Interiors and shipped thousands of miles across the Atlantic Ocean. It is an authentic Irish pub exuding the warm hospitality and fun that is typically Irish.



36. San Diego ATV Rentals


San Diego has everything an ATV rider could want and more. We have perfect winter weather in our local deserts and some of the best riding in the country.



37. SeaWorld San Diego


A 200 acre theme park that is home to exotic animals, rides, shows, exhibits, and water fun!



38. Disneyland


The Happiest Place on Earth! Enter a magical kingdom where you can sail with pirates, explore exotic jungles, meet fairy-tale princesses, dive under the ocean and rocket through the stars—all in the same day!



39. The Flower Fields


50 acres of extraordinary, diverse colored rows of flowers at the Carlsbad Flower Fields overlooking the Pacific Ocean.



40. LEGOLAND California


Enjoy your vacation at LEGOLAND California Resort with over 50 rides, shows, the CHIMA Water Park and more attractions.



41. Hike Bike Kayak Adventure Tours


San Diego's Premier Eco Tourism Adventure Company!



42. San Diego Model Railroad Museum


The mission of the San Diego Model Railroad Museum is to preserve the heritage of railroading through a series of miniature representations of California railroads, as well as research and preserve the history of model railroading.



43. California Motorsport Adventours


We have DAILY rides in Baja California (near the California border with Mexico) on Quads and Dirt Bikes. So idle your engine for a few moments while you choose a tour from our selection ranging from First-Time Rider ATV Tours, sweet Single-Trail bashing to a full or multiple day ride of following the Baja 1000 trails.



44. Social Cycle


The Social Cycle is San Diego's ORIGINAL 16 passenger bicycle powered party on wheels.



45. Sky Sailing


As Southern California’s Premier Sailplane destination, Sky Sailing offers rides of one or two passengers, instruction in the art of Soaring, and a place for the Glider community to meet and practice their sport.



46. FlyDive


FlyDive was born in sunny San Diego with one sole purpose – to make hydroflight fun, safe and easy for EVERYONE. Not just the pros, but everyone.



47. Scuba San Diego


Welcome to Scuba San Diego, Inc. In business locally since 1968,. we bring you the finest in San Diego scuba dive, snorkel and night kayak touring.



48. San Diego Bay Adventures


The San Diego Bay is full of amazing sights, attractions, and restaurants. San Diego Bay Adventures provides a wide array of rentals and tours that are perfect for any visitor or local San Diegan.



49. Old Town Trolley Tours


Join us in any of our great cities and see why our guests say we offer “the best sightseeing tours in the country!”



50. Belmont Park


Beachfront amusement center with rides, indoor children's play center, and attractions, and much more!



51. Miguel's Cocina


Over three decades and seven locations, our signature friendly service and festive decor have made Miguel’s a San Diego tradition for locals and visitors alike.



52. Disney California Adventure Park


Disney California Adventure Park is a Southern California theme park featuring Disney and Pixar characters and stories at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim.



53. Paint and Glow by Davina


At Paint and Glow by Davina, you’ll get to enjoy the most unique painting experience. With glow in the dark paint and UV blacklights, you can create a stunning masterpiece in just one class! All skill levels and ages are welcome for most classes.



54. Scavengers


We have combined fun & craft beer into an all-inclusive beer adventure. Ride along with us in our vintage 1973 Swiss Military Safari Jeeps around the sunny San Diego coast. Sample tasty IPA's, Farmhouse ales, Lagers, Porters, and Stouts at some of San Diego's coolest breweries.



55. Wine & Canvas


Wine and Canvas is a mobile business that brings the party to your favorite venues, corporate events, or living room! We make painting easy and exciting.



56. Birch Aquarium


Explore where the wonders of the ocean come alive! The mission of Birch Aquarium is to provide ocean science education, to interpret Scripps Institution of Oceanography research, and to promote ocean conservation.



57. Street Side Thai Kitchen


One of the best restaurants in North Park! Takes Reservations, Walk-Ins Welcome, Good For Groups, Good For Kids, Take Out, Delivery, Catering, Waiter Service and Outdoor Seating.



58. San Diego Whale Watch


Be a part of the fun with San Diego Whale Watch, the only year-round whale watching operation in San Diego! Just around the corner from Sea World, we’re sure this will be an experience you’ll never forget.



59. SEAL Tours


Wind your way through picturesque San Diego streets before splashing down for a cruise through the waters of San Diego Harbor. Experience the history and ecological wonders of San Diego in the comfort and security or our virtually unsinkable Hydra-Terras. Here you will learn first-hand of our rich military history and cruise through the waters that are the playground of the California Sea Lion.



60. La Jolla Kayak


Discover by kayak the spectacular sea cliffs, the Seven Caves and the La Jolla Underwater Park with abundant marine life including Sea Lions, Leopard Sharks, and Garibaldi. La Jolla Kayak offers kayak tours and kayak rentals to explore the coast line with a certified guide or on your own.



61. Flagship Cruises & Events


Explore the scenic beauty and fascinating history of San Diego's waterfront aboard our professionally narrated sightseeing tours. Fun for the whole family!



62. Torrey Pines Gliderport


Southern California’s premiere location for paragliding, hang gliding, remote control models and sailplanes.


San Diego Spotlight

SeaWorld San Diego
Solid Rock Gym
USS Midway Museum

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Visit San Diego   America's Finest City

Over 70 miles of beaches, stunning mountains, beautiful golf courses, vibrant nightlife, and world renowned attractions.
Something to do for all ages, year-round, with San Diego's mild and sunny weather.