San Diego trips and vacations

No vacation to San Diego is complete without stopping by the birthplace of California. While Old Town San Diego stands as a relic of Spanish settlement, the culture of the Indigenous Kumeyaay people is still felt today. Combine historical re-enactments and a visit to the Whaley House — considered the most haunted home in the USA — with traditions like ‘Dia de los Muertos’ (Day of the Dead).

Seals and sea lions love to bask on La Jolla’s shores, making it one of the best places in California to spot these flippered fellows. Favorite hangouts include Boomer Beach, Seal Rock and the Children’s Pool. For an even better vantage point, join a kayak tour of La Jolla’s famed sea caves. And no matter how cute or harmless the animals seem, be sure to always keep a respectful distance.

The city’s proximity to Tijuana makes a day trip across the border an essential experience on your San Diego vacation. While it’s possible to walk, some tour companies can ferry you and even cover key locations across northwestern Mexico. Kick-start your appetite with a traditional tamale breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable foodie adventure. Don’t forget your passport.

Wondering where to stay in San Diego for gorgeous beaches? Artists have long been inspired by La Jolla’s rugged coastline, and they aren’t the only ones — the seals and sea lions love it here too. Don’t miss the Sunny Jim Cave Store, a beachfront boutique with its very own sea cave.

Good for: Beaches, sea caves, boutiques

Before San Diego became the gleaming metropolis we know today, it was a sedate outpost of European settlers. The preserved and reconstructed architecture of the Old Town makes this the best area to stay in San Diego for history enthusiasts. Coincide your stay with celebrations like Dia de los Muertos, and take your pick from award-winning Mexican restaurants.

Good for: Architecture, history, Mexican food

Young, fun and full of waves, Pacific Beach is the best neighborhood to stay in San Diego for surfers. Yet to pick up a board? The gentle breakers of Tourmaline Surfing Park are perfect for beginners. Heat up the fire pit come sunset, and don’t forget the s’mores. A party vibe draws a lively crowd to Pacific Beach’s 3-mile boardwalk.

Good for: Surfing, sunsets, beach boardwalk

There are lots of free things to do in San Diego. Join the locals in a game of beach volleyball, snorkel at La Jolla Cove in search of leopard sharks (they’re harmless!), or admire dozens of murals in Chicano Park. Don’t miss the Sunday afternoon concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion — the historic instrument contains more than 5,000 pipes.

Get your shopping done at Seaport Village, a shopping and dining complex modeled on a Victorian bayside outpost and a romantic spot to take in the city lights come evening. Downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter is 16 blocks of indie shops, bars and restaurants. La Jolla is the Rodeo Drive of San Diego, with upscale boutiques galore.

Balboa Park has 1,200 acres of greenery, Spanish Revival architecture and over a dozen museums to visit. The San Diego Natural History Museum fascinates visitors of all ages, while the San Diego Mineral and Gem Society dazzles with collections from around the globe. Costs can quickly build up, so invest in an Explorer Pass to save on admission fees.

The historic Gaslamp Quarter features some of the best nightlife in San Diego. Have your requests ready at dueling piano bar The Shout! House, or pick from a selection of popular comedy clubs. The ALTITUDE Sky Lounge offers 22-story views of San Diego Bay, Coronado Island and the interior of Petco Park stadium. Go Padres!

Being this close to the border has its perks. San Diego is home to some of the best Mexican food in the US and consistently boasts the best fish tacos in the country. Try one at a relaxed restaurant or a Mexican-style taqueria. There are also plenty of Michelin-starred and fine-dining restaurants to be found here too. Feeling thirsty? San Diego is a craft beer powerhouse, famous for its hoppy ales.

With so many great beaches in San Diego it’s all about finding one that suits your mood. Black’s Beach is known for its serious surf, while Mission Beach boasts epic views and a wooden roller coaster that’s been terrifying thrill seekers since 1925. Coronado Beach is backdropped by the iconic Hotel del Coronado, as seen in ‘Some Like It Hot’ with Marilyn Monroe.