You’ve probably heard that San Diego is an amazing city, but it can be hard to know exactly why. Besides being one of the most beautiful and popular cities in the United States, what makes it so special? Why should you visit San Diego over any other city? Here are 30 reasons, from a local’s perspective, on why San Diego is worth visiting. Whether you’re looking for great weather, world-class food options, or unique things to do, San Diego has something for everyone. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s inside: when to visit, things to do, and what makes San Diego unique…
Before I moved to San Diego almost 5 years ago, I thought it was mainly a beach town.
But now as a local, let me tell you, there’s SO much more to it than that!
I’ve been exploring the city since day one, and I always find new things to love. I really enjoy trying new restaurants and things to do, so let me share what I’ve learned with you! I’ll be helping you decide is San Diego worth visiting, and sharing my advice and ideas for things to do.
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Before We Get Started
Have you seen some of my other content about southern California? Reading a bit more about the area will help you make up your mind about if San Diego is worth visiting. Here are a few reads you may be interested in:
- Top 10 Things To Do in Southern California
- Guide to Los Angeles: 5 LA Itineraries
- USA Beach Towns: Travel Guide to Encinitas California
- Local’s Guide to La Jolla California
- Awesome Things To Do in Mission Bay San Diego
- 23 Unbeatable Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Stops
How Many Days Do You Need To Visit San Diego?
If you’re considering a trip to sunny San Diego, a commonly asked question is how many days do you need? Many people think that three or four days is enough, and I think that is doable but it depends on what you want to do on your trip.
In my opinion, a few days or a weekend trip is still worth it but if you want to cover all that the city has to offer and explore the 30 things on this list then I would recommend a week or more. With so much to see and do in this beautiful city, it’s definitely worth it to extend your stay.
Is San Diego Expensive?
Are you wondering if San Diego is expensive? You’re not alone! Obviously, the cost of your trip varies depending on time of year you visit, where you stay and length of trip. But, let’s take a look at some general costs to help you get an idea of what to expect.
For example, the average cost of a hotel room in San Diego is $161 and the average cost of an Airbnb in San Diego is $192. Property costs are high in San Diego so you will pay more than other U.S. cities. However, you can save money by traveling during the off season, traveling during the weekday versus the weekend, avoiding holidays, and staying further away from the most popular areas. Another idea would be to shorten the length of your trip to save money.
Yes San Diego is expensive to travel to, but I think it’s worth it! Keep reading if you want to know why and decide for yourself. Also – check out Trivago. I love that they compile hotel options from lots of different sites to find you the best deals!
Is San Diego Walkable? Tips For Getting Around
This is a question that many travelers ask before visiting. The answer, unfortunately, is not a clear cut one. While there are some neighborhoods in San Diego that are much more walkable than others, the city as a whole does not have an extensive pedestrian infrastructure. MTS is a bus system that is available and the Coaster is a commuter rail system that is another option that runs north and south.
That said, there are plenty of things to do and see in San Diego without having to rely on public transportation, taxis or ridesharing. So if you’re up for an adventure and don’t mind mixing walking with other modes of transportation, then San Diego is definitely worth exploring on foot! Another option, and one of my favorites is a hop on/hop off trolley tour.
Tip: parking spots (in general) are very narrow throughout many San Diego communities so I would recommend booking a small or compact rental car for your trip. Check out rentalcars.com!
When Is The Best Time To Visit San Diego?
San Diego is a popular travel destination all year round, but which month or season is the best time to visit? Depending on what you’re looking for, different times of year can be better than others:
- Jan, Feb, and March are the coldest and rainiest months (but less busy!)
- “May Gray” and “June Gloom” are nicknames given to San Diego because these are the most overcast months
- July, August and September is peak tourist season, the busiest, and the warmest weather
- September and October are wonderful! Warm, perfect weather and less crowded/less popular times
- November and December are cooler temps but still not freezing, less crowded months to visit
What To Pack For A Trip to San Diego
I recommend bringing layers! San Diego has microclimates, which basically means that it’s going to be one type of weather at the beach, something different if you’re inland, and a different forecast if you’re farther east, near the edge of the county. What you wear will be determined by what part of San Diego you’re in.
That being said, definitely pack your swimsuit, flip-flops casual clothing! In general, San Diego is pretty laid-back and not too formal or dressy. The exception to this would be if you want to explore nightlife or have a nice dinner somewhere. The average temperature in San Diego in the 70s year round so it’s a super comfortable, dry climate and really enjoyable to be indoors or outside.
Is San Diego Worth Visiting?
1. San Diego Has Unbeatable Weather Year-Round
The average yearly temperature in San Diego is in the low 70s and it does not get any more perfect than that! Even on the coldest days in the winter, the lows rarely drop below the mid-50s and most of the time the sun is shining. Southern California is also an arid, dry climate meaning there’s barely any rain to have to deal with.
In other words it’s the most perfect weather you could possibly imagine and it’s something that San Diego is really known for. There’s a reason that people travel to San Diego year-round and it’s one of the top tourist destinations. The great weather means that you can really enjoy the outdoors! Think outdoor dining, spending time in a park, being on the water…the opportunities are endless to enjoy the great weather.
2. There’s An Amazing Food Scene
San Diego is also known for having amazing restaurants (and of course fantastic Mexican food!) You can pretty much get any type of cuisine imaginable, from food trucks to casual eateries to fancy rooftop dining you will not go hungry on your trip to San Diego. A few places I highly recommend are Sugar and Scribe bakery in La Jolla, Rubicon Deli (multiple locations in San Diego). To make the most of your time in SD, check out these foodie tours:
3. Laid Back Vibe and Friendly People
This fun city is rich in culture and diversity, which makes San Diego worth visiting! From its mix of historical buildings and modern attractions, to the Spanish influence in the food and language, there’s something for everyone who visits. But what really makes San Diego stand out is its easygoing beach town vibe which pervades every aspect of local life. The people here are friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to explore and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
4. Nice Proximity to LA, Vegas, and Mexico
If you’re looking for a vacation destination that is close to some of the most popular cities in the US and Mexico, you’re in the right place. This is definitely something that makes San Diego worth visiting! The fact that the city is only a few hours’ drive from Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Mexico makes it easy to maximize your trip and cover lots of ground. There are plenty of things to do in San Diego, and you can also extend your trip and venture out a bit further. Here’s an idea of how centrally located San Diego is:
- San Diego to Los Angeles = approx. 3-4 hour drive (varies with traffic)
- San Diego to Tijuana, Mexico = 30 min – 1 hour (depending on your origin and traffic at the border crossing)
- San Diego to Las Vegas = 5 hour drive (or 30 min flight!)
5. Fascinating History and Military Significance
Visiting the USS Midway battleship was actually the very first thing my husband and I did once we moved to San Diego. I had read about it online and knew we would love it. Since that first visit, we’ve been back 3 more times!
The USS Midway is a military battleship that you can tour, and it’s a fascinating way to spend a few hours. For history buffs, it’s the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century and has been involved in several wars. You get to see the inside of the ship, where sailors ate and slept, and also the bridge (known as the control tower). One of the coolest parts is going onto the flight deck to see where planes took off and landed. As a bonus, there are great views of the city skyline and the San Diego harbor from atop the flight deck.
6. Lots of Opportunities To Enjoy Nature
If you’re looking for a great place to enjoy the weather and some outdoor activities, look no further than San Diego. There are SO many places to get outside and explore nature (too many to list!) From hiking and biking trails to gorgeous beaches and parks, there’s something for everyone. A few I highly recommend are Windansea Beach (pictured above), Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and Mission Bay Park. You’ll definitely find yourself taking tons of pictures to capture the natural beauty!
7. Fantastic Coastal Views and Terrain
Is San Diego worth visiting? My vote is a resounding YES, for the vies alone! If fantastic coastal views are what you’re after, make your way to the Torrey Pines Gliderport. This is the home of paragliding and hang gliding in San Diego county. Perched on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean, you’ll get stunning views as well. If you want to get in on the action, the Gliderport offers lessons and tandem jumps for beginners. Just be sure to book ahead of time!
There are a few different things you can do at the Torrey Pines Gliderport. Grab a snack at the cafe, take a seat on the deck, and simply enjoy the breeze and watch the gliders. If you’re lucky (and it’s a windy day), they’ll be lots to see. Worst case scenario (if weather conditions don’t allow for gliding), there are some relatively flat trails you can take.
8. Many Unique and Diverse Neighborhoods
Pacific Beach, or “PB” feels like the quintessential California beach town: sunshine, palm trees, and a laid back personality. The crowd is young and vibrant, and PB is home to lots of restaurant and bar options, shops, beaches, and a great boardwalk. A few things you can do in PB: rent bikes/skateboards/scooters/rollerblades, go to the beach, surf, go for ice cream, get food at a rooftop restaurant…. the list goes on and on. There’s axe-throwing, great Mexican food, a pier, and you’re located near both the ocean and the San Diego Bay for water sports.
If you’re looking for a truly unique and Italian experience while in San Diego, look no further than Little Italy. This neighborhood is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, offering authentic dishes and charming European atmosphere. Whether you’re just stopping by for lunch or spending an afternoon exploring all that Little Italy has to offer, you’re sure to fall in love with this special corner of San Diego. Little Italy also has a fantastic farmer’s market on Saturday and Wednesday mornings – highly recommend!
If you want to spend time near the water on your trip to San Diego (and who doesn’t?!) head to the Embarcadero. This district is located in downtown San Diego, and it offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. You’ll find all sorts of interesting attractions and activities in this vibrant area, so be sure to check it out! Here are just a few things you’ll find at the Embarcadero: waterfront dining, the Maritime Museum (you can tour a submarine and the sailboat from the movie Master and Commander), bike and scooter rentals, people watching, and more!
North Park is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood to explore in San Diego. This community, which is centrally located and near downtown, is home to trendy restaurants, lively bars, art galleries, and some of the city’s best music venues. Whether you’re interested in soaking up some culture or just enjoying a night out on the town, North Park is always a fun time. A few places to check out: Pigment (pictured above), the water tower, TONS of art murals and the official North Park street sign.
9. You Can Get Up Close With Marine Life
Just a mile or two north and adjacent to PB is La Jolla, an upscale coastal community. To see harbor seals, head to La Jolla Cove, which is located in the main part of town called “the village”. Parking can be tricky, but it’s worth the effort once you walk around the village and explore the rocky coastline. You can expect fantastic views and up close viewing of the seals.
They tend to hang out at the Children’s Pool, which is a small beach protected by a seawall. Unlike it’s name, it’s not a great place to swim because the seals have claimed it and come here to birth their babies. Seal pupping season happens mid Dec. through mid May every year and the beach is closed. Lifeguards monitor the area to protect the animals from people getting too close.
Other ways to see marine life are on a whale watching cruise, sailing excursion or harbor cruise. I’ve done all three of those things and have seen seals, sea lions, dolphins, whales, fish and birds! You can even check out Sea World and know that they play an active role in animal rescues and strandings at local San Diego beaches.
10. The Sunsets are 10/10
If natural beauty, sea and sand are what you’re after, you definitely need to visit Sunset Cliffs. Located in the community of Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs is a regional park perched (you guessed it) atop coastal bluffs. It’s a great place to walk, run, have a picnic, and most importantly watch the sunset! It’s actually a great place to visit any time of day! There are multiple staircases you can take that will lead you down to the bottom of the cliffs to the water. Highly recommend this experience.
11. There’s Even An Island To Explore
Located in the San Diego harbor is Coronado Island, a small beach community home to about 20,000 people, a military base, and one of the most famous beaches in the world. You can drive to Coronado over the 2-mile bridge that connects it to the rest of San Diego or take a ferry to get there. Either way, a day in Coronado is always fun and relaxing. Shops, restaurants, parks, bike riding, beaches… what more could you want?
12. It’s Less Crowded Than L.A.
Although San Diego and Los Angeles are both in Southern California, they offer very different experiences. If you’re looking for a place that’s less crowded than Los Angeles, San Diego is definitely the better option. You’ll still be able to find plenty of things to do in San Diego, but it won’t feel as hectic as LA. So is San Diego worth visiting on your California trip? Definitely!
If you’re looking to escape the crowds, one place to check out in San Diego is Mission Bay Park because it’s the largest man-made aquatic park in the country and full of sunshine, palm trees, and water sports. I love coming to the park for a picnic, bonfire, or to just relax and enjoy the surroundings. There are lots of nooks and crannies within Mission Bay, so you can find a spot that suits you and isn’t too crowded with people.
13. Traffic Is Predictable
Southern California definitely has the reputation for having a horrific traffic but in San Diego there’s a relatively predictable traffic pattern in general. The craziest times are roughly 3-7 p.m. on a weekday. This is when you’ll encounter your typical rush hour traffic. Another rule of thumb is that it’s busiest if you’re traveling north in the morning or if you’re traveling south or east in the evening.
14. There’s A World Class Zoo
When wondering what to do in San Diego, the zoo may cross your mind. And there’s no surprise there, it’s world-renowned and definitely worth a visit. It’s a beautiful zoo, with over 3,000 animals to see and they also have many cage-free exhibits. While you’re there, be sure to ride the aerial tram for fantastic views of both the zoo and the surrounding area. To give your feet a rest, they also have a guided bus tour that I personally LOVED and just enjoyed so much.
15. The Safari Park is Top Notch
Ok if you’ve been on an African safari, this one won’t wow you.
But if you haven’t… you gotta go to the Safari Park! It’s where you can see tons of wild animals from all around the globe. You can choose how you want to explore – they have cart safaris, zip lines, and behind-the-scenes tours and more.
16. Liberty Station is A Must-See
For a low key adventure, head to Liberty Station. Described as a “waterfront urban village”, it’s the place to go for great food and unique shops and is centrally located to the rest of the city. Liberty Station was once a naval training center, so it has a slightly military feel.
A few cool things you can do at Liberty Station: attend a concert, see an art exhibition, grab a bite to eat, go to a workshop…. They have tons of seasonal events, too. Around the holidays they light and decorate a massive Christmas tree!
17. Discover Tranquility in Encinitas
If #4 above appealed to you (the Carlsbad Flower Fields), you’ll definitely be interested in the San Diego Botanic Garden. Located in Encinitas, it’s one of the coolest botanical gardens I’ve been to.
I love that it’s divided up by region of the world (my favorite was the tropical rainforest), and there are super unique plants to see. This is something you can easily do in 1-3 hours and it’s very relaxing.
18. There’s An International Airport
San Diego has a really nice international airport that’s centrally-located and easy to get to. This is a huge convenience and something to factor in when you’re deciding if San Diego is worth visiting. It has two terminals, an on-site rental car center, and a variety of Airlines to choose from. It’s the perfect size airport in my opinion – lots of flights, pretty on the inside with restaurants, shops, fountains and art pieces, and not too big that it’s annoying to get around in.
19. Largest County Fair in the U.S.
The Del Mar Fairgrounds always has something going on, no matter what season of the year. It’s located alongside the beach and so you get cool breezes and great views. But it’s most known for hosting the San Diego County Fair and Del Mar horse races! If you’re not in town for the fair, the fairgrounds have lots of special events throughout the year. Our first Halloween in San Diego, we went to Scream Zone and did a haunted hayride!
20. Tons of Hiking Trails
If you want to take some great photos on your trip to San Diego, be sure to check out Cowles Mountain! It’s the highest point in San Diego and you get epic views from the top and a great spot for a workout. Cowles Mountain is considered a “moderate” hike, but I would definitely recommend wearing good shoes and bringing lots of water and sunscreen. This is just one example of great hiking in San Diego!
21. A Settlement from 1769
For something different and historic, Old Town San Diego is a fun place to spend a few hours. Old Town is considered the historic center of San Diego because it was actually San Diego’s first settlement back in 1769! Old Town is full of historical buildings, authentic food, lots of shops for souvenirs, and even a few museums. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
22. Traffic is Avoidable With A Trolley Tour
This is without a doubt one of my #1 things to recommend to anyone visiting San Diego for the first time. The trolley tours are so much fun! It’s basically a narrated tour, and you can hop on/hop off at various locations around the city. In fact, the trolley tour stops at many of the locations on this list. It’s super fun and I highly recommend it. You get to avoid parking and traffic and just cruise the city. My husband and I have done it multiple times and it’s fun and different every time. If your time is limited (or your trip is short), this should definitely be on your list of what to do in San Diego!
23. Multiple Professional Sports Teams
Is San Diego worth visiting for sports fans? Absolutely! From collegiate sports to professional teams, San Diego has a lot to offer a sports fan. You can catch a San Diego Padres baseball game at the beautiful Petco Park. And if baseball isn’t your thing, the San Diego Gulls are a minor league hockey team that plays at Pechanga Arena. Tickets are really reasonably priced and it’s a good time.
24. Great Nightlight at the Gaslamp Quarter
Last but certainly not least, for more of a hip, urban feel check out the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego. This downtown neighborhood is known for great food, nightlife, comedy clubs and more. It’s easily walkable and makes for a good night out on the town.
25. It’s Enjoyable Any Time of Year
San Diego is a great place to visit any time of year. Though there are some times that are better than others, it really just depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for sunny weather and beaches, then summer is the best time to go. If you want to avoid the crowds and find good deals on hotels and attractions, then winter might be a better bet. The holidays are a special time to visit, and you can ice skate by the beach, attend aChristmas parades, or holiday movie in the park! Check out my post What To Do in California in Winter: Anything You Want to read more.
26. Balboa Park. Enough Said
You can’t take a trip to San Diego and not include Balboa Park on your list of things to see. If you haven’t heard of it, Balboa is a 120-acre, gorgeous urban park in the middle of the city. It contains 16 museums, performing arts venues, gardens, a zoo, trails, and more. For many SD locals, this is one of the most recommended places and another thing that makes San Diego worth visiting!
Balboa Park has lots of special events throughout the year, too. A few of my favorites are “Food Truck Fridays” in the summertime and Halloween events like the haunted trail and pet parade. There are several free things to do, and it’s a great environment to be in overall. Stunning architecture, unique and beautiful plants, and tons of people watching are just a few things you can expect on a trip to Balboa Park.
27. Within Driving Distance To Snow
Most people visit San Diego for its incredible beaches and perfect weather, but if you’re looking to add a little bit of winter magic to your trip, Big Bear is just a short 3 hour drive away. With towering mountains covered in snow, sledding hills, and festive holiday events, Big Bear is the perfect place to enjoy a snowy vacation without having to leave southern California. So bundle up and get ready for some real winter fun!
28. Close To The Desert
Are you looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? San Diego is close to the desert, which means that you can enjoy all the peace and quiet that nature has to offer. There are plenty of places to visit in the desert, so make sure you include it on your list of things to do while in San Diego! Borrego Springs is the closest, but you can venture a little further and see Palm Springs or head east towards Yuma for some sand boarding.
29. 6 National Parks Are Nearby
Yes it’s true! San Diego is within driving distance of 6 national parks! So there is plenty of ways to escape the city and explore the wilderness:
- Cabrillo National Monument (very small, within San Diego county)
- Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area
- Joshua Tree National Park
- Channel Islands National Park
- Mojave National Preserve
- Death Valley National Park
30. Stunning Beaches and 17 Miles of Coastline
Perhaps what San Diego is best known for is the beautiful coastline and beach life. There are over 17 miles to explore, and you can see the Pacific Ocean at it’s finest. Some beaches are wide and flat, others have rocky cliffs, and there are lots of places to spot a whale, go tidepooling, or even see bioluminescence! It’s truly a can’t-miss part of any trip to San Diego, and one of the main reasons San Diego is worth visiting.
Let’s Plan Your Trip To San Diego!
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