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Planning a trip to San Diego, California? You’ve just hit the jackpot!
This sunny coastal city has a way of winning people over—and fast. We’ve explored San Diego more than once, and each time we go back, we discover something new that makes us fall even more in love with it. From relaxed beach days to fascinating history, exciting wildlife encounters, and easy access to Mexico, there’s way more to do here than first meets the eye.
Whether you’re looking for culture, coastline, or just a good fish taco, this guide will walk you through the very best of what San Diego has to offer. Let’s dive into our top picks!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was book this direct-entry ticket to the San Diego Zoo! We got unlimited use of the Skyfari Aerial Tram, a guided bus tour, and a whole day to see the 4,000 animals here! The zoo is a must-visit, and this pass made it easy.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice
- Things to do in San Diego, California
- 1. Explore San Diego at your own pace with the hop-on, hop-off trolley
- 2. Spend a day at the San Diego Zoo
- 3. Spot wildlife on a whale watching cruise
- 4. Climb aboard the historic USS Midway naval ship
- 5. See the city from land and water on an amphibious vehicle tour
- 6. Zoom around San Diego Harbor in a speed boat
- 7. Visit Mexico on a guided Tijuana day trip
- 8. Relax on a sunset sail
- 9. Discover San Diego’s spooky past on a ghost tour
- 10. Taste and drink your way through the Gaslamp Quarter
- Where to Stay in San Diego, California
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in San Diego, California
1. Explore San Diego at your own pace with the hop-on, hop-off trolley
- Duration: 1–2 days
- Time: 9 am–5 pm
- Highlights: Explore top San Diego highlights with a one or two-day trolley pass (depending on option selected), hop on and off at any of the 11 stops as often as you like
- Inclusions: San Diego hop-on hop-off trolley tour, local taxes, live commentary on board
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 2,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Exploring a new city is exciting—until you’re stuck staring at a bus schedule, wondering where everything is and how to get there. On our first trip to San Diego, we spent more time navigating than actually sightseeing. That’s why we booked this hop-on hop-off trolley tour this time, and it completely changed the game.
With 11 well-placed stops covering the best of the city, including Old Town, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway, Little Italy, and more, we got to explore on our own schedule without worrying about transportation. We hopped off for lunch in the Gaslamp Quarter, strolled through the gardens at Balboa Park, and even squeezed in a museum stop at the waterfront.
The ride over the bridge to Coronado was another highlight with gorgeous bay views, a stroll near the Hotel del Coronado, and a quick coffee stop along relaxed, beachy Orange Avenue.
The trolleys come every 20 minutes, and the live commentary from the guides adds way more than you’d ever get on your own. Our driver, Frank, was hilarious and incredibly knowledgeable. You could tell he genuinely loves this city, and he made the whole experience even more fun.
Planning this tour early in your trip is a smart move—it will give you the lay of the land and help you decide which neighborhoods you want to come back to later. If you want flexibility, fun, and zero planning stress, this is a fantastic way to do it!
Book your San Diego trolley tour here and explore the city the easy way!
2. Spend a day at the San Diego Zoo
- Duration: 1–4 hours
- Time: Open from 9 am–7 pm
- Highlights: Admission to the San Diego Zoo, marvel at the diverse collection of animals, including many endangered species, go in-depth during daily keeper talks
- Inclusions: Unlimited use of Skyfari Aerial Tram and guided bus tour, direct-entry tickets good for one year from the original purchase date
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 3,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We knew the San Diego Zoo was famous, but we didn’t realize just how massive and immersive it really is until we grabbed these one-day zoo passes. This place isn’t something you quickly check off your list—it’s easily a full-day experience packed with animal encounters, winding trails, and lush gardens.
With over 4,000 animals representing 800 species, we were glad we started with the guided bus tour to get our bearings. It gave us an excellent overview and helped us plan what we wanted to circle back to later. We also took full advantage of the Skyfari Aerial Tram, which not only saved our legs but also gave us a beautiful bird’s-eye view of the park.
Seeing the giant pandas was a huge highlight, and we could’ve spent hours watching the orangutans and siamangs swinging around their forest enclosure. The Tiger River and Gorilla Tropics exhibits made us feel like we were wandering through an actual rainforest, and the gardens were just as impressive as the animals.
We loved how every path seemed to lead to something unexpected—one minute we were watching polar bears, the next we were surrounded by blooming orchids and curious flamingos. Even the quiet corners of the zoo felt alive with something new to discover.
This is one of those rare places that’s fun, educational, and just plain magical. If you still need convincing, just check out the thousands of 5-star reviews here—this place really does live up to the hype!
Secure our favorite San Diego experience here!
3. Spot wildlife on a whale watching cruise
- Duration: 4 hours
- Time: 9 am, 11 am, 1:15 pm, and 2 pm
- Highlights: Go whale watching from San Diego aboard a replica of a historic sailing schooner, spot migrating whales and dolphins in the Pacific Ocean
- Inclusions: Sailing cruise, sodas and snacks, whale sighting and no seasickness guarantee
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Most whale watching tours feel like you’re crammed onto a loud motorboat, jostling for a view. That’s exactly what we wanted to avoid, so we booked this sailing cruise aboard the America, and it ended up being the absolute highlight of our trip.
This wasn’t just any boat ride. We sailed on a replica of the historic schooner that won the very first America’s Cup in 1851 with massive sails, polished wood decks, and a layout that gave everyone plenty of space to move around and soak it all in.
The ship’s design meant we could get closer to wildlife without disturbing them, and the views from every angle were wide open. Captain Troy and the crew were incredibly welcoming, sharing fun facts about marine life, the ship’s history, and even the Navy sites we passed on the way out.
We saw three gray whales surfacing and diving in rhythm, and a huge pod of dolphins surrounded the boat, leaping in and out of the water like they were putting on a show.
The included snacks and sodas were a nice touch, and the crew even extended the sail a little so we could enjoy more time with the dolphins. With a whale sighting guarantee and a no-seasickness policy, this tour was a no-brainer!
Don’t wait on this one—it’s popular for a reason and likely to sell out. So, book early and prepare to be wowed!
Read the 5-star reviews here and reserve this popular cruise!
4. Climb aboard the historic USS Midway naval ship
- Duration: 2–5 hours
- Time: Open from 10 am–5 pm
- Highlights: USS Midway Museum tour, visit one of the largest aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy fleet with skip-the-line admission, enjoy over 60 exhibits including the flight deck, galley, engine room, and more
- Inclusions: Audio tour, world-famous Midway volunteers who bring the flight deck alive, USS Midway Museum skip-the-line admission, all taxes, fees, and handling charges, discounts for other nearby attractions
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve rushed through enough museums to know the feeling—rooms full of plaques, a quick walk-through, and you’re out the door in under an hour. That’s why this USS Midway Museum tour completely surprised us. It isn’t a museum you breeze through. It’s hands-on, massive, and packed with real stories, spaces, and people who actually lived aboard this ship.
The Midway was once the largest ship in the world and served nearly 50 years as a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier. You can explore everything from the narrow sleeping quarters and mess halls to the control tower, navigation room, and engine room, all while listening to a self-guided audio tour narrated by former sailors. Their voices brought the ship to life and helped us imagine what daily life at sea was really like.
We started below deck, ducking through tight corridors and peeking into restored living spaces. Then we made our way up to the massive 4-acre flight deck lined with historic aircraft, including fighter jets you can actually climb into.
Along the way, we spoke with veteran volunteers who shared powerful firsthand stories and pointed us toward the Battle of Midway film tucked away inside. It’s easy to miss, so be sure to ask where to find it!
There’s more to see here than you’d expect, and we easily could’ve spent the whole day onboard. Book ahead and plan for extra time. Trust us, this isn’t your average museum stop!
Book your skip-the-line museum tickets here and step aboard U.S. Navy history!
5. See the city from land and water on an amphibious vehicle tour
- Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Time: Multiple departure times from 10 am–4 pm
- Highlights: Sightseeing tour of San Diego Bay and the Quivira Basin by amphibious vehicle, pass by waterfront highlights like SeaWorld and Vacation Isle, learn about the city’s history and landmarks
- Inclusions: Narrated amphibious tour, all taxes
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s easy to burn a lot of energy trying to see San Diego by both land and water—and still feel like you missed something. We didn’t want to stress about parking, directions, or squeezing everything in, so we booked this amphibious sightseeing tour, and it turned out to be one of the most fun and unique ways we explored the city.
We started in Seaport Village, where we boarded a bright yellow Hydra-Terra, which looks like a quirky bus but transforms into a boat partway through the tour. We cruised past landmarks like the Embarcadero, the USS Midway, and Point Loma while our guide kept the vibe fun and informative with facts about the city’s military history and local wildlife.
The tour completely shifted once we rolled down the boat ramp into the bay. We glided past Vacation Isle and SeaWorld and spotted sea lions lounging in the sun. One group even spotted dolphins nearby!
Our captain was professional but funny, and our guide went out of his way to offer extra touches—snapping photos for everyone, handing out blankets when the wind picked up, and even helping with parking advice before the tour started.
The whole experience was smooth, relaxed, and easy to book. If you want a tour that covers a lot of ground (and water) without any hassle, this one’s a real winner!
See the best of San Diego from all angles and secure this amphibious tour here!
6. Zoom around San Diego Harbor in a speed boat
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm
- Highlights: Self-drive speed boat tour on San Diego Harbor, learn boating basics from your expert guide before following their boat around the harbor, cruise past the city’s highlights, get close to the Coronado Bridge and San Diego Maritime Museum
- Inclusions: Guided and narrated tour, life jacket, safety orientation, your own F13 mini speed boat, all taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 640+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Group boat tours can feel a little… slow. We wanted something with more energy—and the freedom to actually drive. So we booked this San Diego Harbor speed boat adventure, and it was an absolute blast from start to finish.
You don’t need any experience or a boating license to do this. After a quick safety briefing at Cabrillo Isle Marina, we learned the basics of driving and hand signals, then hopped into our own F13 speed boat. These things are fast, easy to steer, and come with a two-way radio so you can hear your guide the entire time.
We chased our guide, Keegan, through a 13-mile/21-kilometer loop packed with nonstop views and adrenaline. He kept the energy high and the commentary fun, pointing out iconic sights like the USS Midway, the Star of India, the sweeping Coronado Bridge, and the cliffs of Cabrillo National Monument.
At one point, we zipped right under the bow of the USS Midway. Talk about a wild perspective! We even spotted sea lions lounging near Point Loma and got clear skyline views the whole way.
Cruising over little waves at high speed was way more exciting than we expected, and switching drivers mid-tour was easy and fun.
This is a great way to see the harbor from a whole new perspective and feel like a total boss while doing it! But don’t just take our word for it—read hundreds of 5-star reviews here to see why this tour is such a hit!
Don’t miss out—reserve this self-drive speed boat tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Visit Mexico on a guided Tijuana day trip
- Duration: 4–5 hours
- Time: 10:30 am and 1 pm
- Highlights: Discover genuine Tijuana hospitality on a day tour south of the Mexican border, lunch at an authentic local eatery, learn about Baja Mexican culture
- Inclusions: Local guide, food tasting, lunch, bottled water
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 560+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Tijuana is just a short trip from San Diego, but planning a visit can feel intimidating—especially when it comes to navigating the border and knowing where to go once you’re across. That’s what made this small group Tijuana walking tour such a game-changer. It takes the guesswork out of the experience and replaces it with local flavor, great food, and a whole lot of insight.
From the very start, the experience felt smooth and well-organized. Our guide, Tadeo, was incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, making sure everything, from the border crossing to navigating the city, felt easy and safe.
We explored the heart of Tijuana, starting on Avenida Revolución, where we walked through lively streets, checked out colorful markets, and stopped for food tastings at local spots we never would’ve found on our own.
Lunch was a definite highlight. Think warm tortillas, flavorful salsas, and that perfectly grilled meat that hits you with just the right amount of spice. It was the kind of simple, no-frills meal that left us totally satisfied and wishing we had room for seconds.
Along the way, Tadeo shared local history, culture, and stories that gave us a much deeper appreciation for the city than we expected. It didn’t feel touristy at all—we felt like we were seeing Tijuana with a local friend.
Make sure to bring your passport or proper ID for the border, and come ready to eat, walk, and learn. This tour frequently sells out, so secure it early to lock it in!
Book this Tijuana tour in advance here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
8. Relax on a sunset sail
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 2 pm–5 pm
- Highlights: Small group sunset cruise aboard a Catalina-style sailboat, bring your own music to play on the surround-sound speakers, enjoy drinks, snacks, and blankets during the ride
- Inclusions: Evening sailing cruise, drinks, light snacks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 550+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Sunset cruises can sometimes feel overcrowded or overly scripted, but this small-group sailboat tour was relaxed, scenic, and exactly the kind of low-key luxury we were looking for. With just six guests on board, it felt peaceful and personal from the moment we stepped onto the beautiful Catalina-style sailboat and set off on the San Diego Harbor.
Dave was our captain for the evening, and although he wasn’t officially a tour guide, he struck the perfect balance between laid-back and informative as he pointed out local landmarks like the USS Midway, the twin lighthouses of Point Loma, and the stretch of Coronado Island glowing in the last light of the day.
Captain Dave even offered to snap photos for our group, which turned out to be some of the best shots from our trip!
As the sky shifted into deep orange and pink, we sipped on complimentary drinks, snacked on chips and cookies, and wrapped up in cozy blankets as the breeze picked up. We synced up our playlist to the surround-sound Bluetooth system, and suddenly it felt like our own private sunset party.
Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to end your day on the water, this cruise ticks every box. Check out the hundreds of rave reviews here to see why this is one of San Diego’s most loved sunset experiences!
Secure your spot here and catch San Diego’s golden hour from the best seat in the city!
Related Read: For tips on how to get around, the best activities, and where to eat, check out our detailed 3-day San Diego itinerary!
9. Discover San Diego’s spooky past on a ghost tour
- Duration: 1 hour and 55 minutes
- Time: 7 pm and 9 pm
- Highlights: See San Diego’s haunted locations on foot and by bus on this guided ghost tour, hear historically accurate ghost stories about the city’s past and infamous residents from world-class storytellers and trained thespians
- Inclusions: Small-group tour, ride in the Ghost Coach, disembark at all locations and enter the majority of them
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We didn’t realize just how haunted San Diego really is—until we set off on this small-group ghost tour. From the moment the doors creaked shut, it felt more like an immersive theater than a typical history walk.
Our guide, Archie, brought the whole thing to life. He had that perfect mix of humor and dark storytelling, sharing eerie details about San Diego’s haunted past as we rode through the city in the Ghost Coach.
We got off at each stop, from the Gaslamp Museum, where people have felt cold spots and even claimed to be pushed by unseen hands, to the famously haunted Horton Grand Hotel.
The stained glass windows at Villa Montezuma glowed like something out of a dream (or a horror movie), and the curator’s storytelling gave us chills in the best way. The idea that both the first and last residents still haunt the halls gave the whole place a layered, lingering eeriness.
Someone in our group swore they saw a shadow move across a hallway window—but no one was inside. The tension carried us into the final stop: a cemetery filled with stories of disturbed graves and glowing figures after dark.
If you love ghost stories or weird history, or you just want something different to do in San Diego, this tour is a must. Just don’t be surprised if you leave with more than a few spooky stories of your own!
Reserve this ghost tour here and dive into San Diego’s haunted history!
10. Taste and drink your way through the Gaslamp Quarter
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 11 am, 2 pm, and 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Food and walking tour of the Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego, discover the neighborhood’s seedy history, enjoy food tastings at four restaurants, sample drinks at three stops
- Inclusions: Food and drink tastings, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.5 stars (check 680+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve done our fair share of food tours, but few combine flavors, stories, and local nightlife like this one—where every bite came with a story and every drink had a scandal behind it. This food and walking tour through the Gaslamp Quarter was the perfect mix of history, personality, and seriously good eats.
Our guide, Benedict, made the experience even better. He was professional but fun, clearly passionate about the neighborhood, and had a way of making everyone feel like part of the group. With just a small number of us on the tour, it felt social without being crowded, like a night out with a bunch of new friends.
We stopped at four local restaurants for bites that ranged from upscale comfort food (hello, truffle mac and cheese) to bold, spicy flavors like street tacos with smoky chipotle aioli. We had drinks at three different stops in between, including one Prohibition-style drink inspired by a real bootlegger who once ran these very streets.
But the best part is that this wasn’t just a food crawl—it was a deep dive into the Gaslamp’s scandalous past, from red-light history and crooked mayors to the modern-day bars that keep the party going.
By the end, we were full, tipsy, and ready to keep the night going. If you want food and gossip with your happy hour, this tour is the perfect place to start!
Book this food tour here and taste your way through San Diego’s juiciest history!
Where to Stay in San Diego, California
San Diego is a fun and sunny coastal city with great places to stay for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re planning a luxurious escape, a laid-back family trip, or a budget-friendly adventure, there’s a spot that fits your needs.
No need to get lost in a sea of hotel options—we’ve narrowed it down to the best places to stay in San Diego, so you can hit the ground running and soak up every bit of sunshine, surf, and city energy this place offers.
Luxury – $$$
Nestled in the heart of San Diego’s Carmel Valley, Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a lavish resort that combines old-world European elegance with California charm. Surrounded by peaceful canyon views, the property offers everything from four outdoor pools and a private golf course to an award-winning spa and the acclaimed Addison restaurant. Rooms are spacious and refined, with marble bathrooms, soaking tubs, and cozy fireplaces or terraces overlooking the gardens.
Rates typically range from $750–$3,000 USD per night, depending on the season and suite. Browse options and reserve your luxury stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Mission Valley/Hotel Circle is a great mid-range stay just minutes from top attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Old Town. The spacious, modern rooms come with plush beds, a mini-fridge, and ergonomic workspaces. Guests love the outdoor pool, hot tub, and 24-hour gym, plus The Bistro serves Starbucks coffee, breakfast, and evening cocktails. It’s clean, convenient, and family-friendly—ideal for exploring San Diego without breaking the bank.
Prices start around $230 USD per night. Check availability for your stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget stay in downtown San Diego, Stay Classy hits all the right notes. This clean, modern hostel is just a short walk from the convention center and offers full-sized beds with privacy curtains—no bunks here! You’ll find plenty of space to relax, whether it’s in the cozy lounge, billiards room, or shared kitchen. Free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and helpful staff make it a smart pick for travelers who want comfort without the splurge.
Beds start at around $58 USD per night. Book your stay now on Booking.com.
For more options, see all of San Diego’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
San Diego has a TON to see, so hopefully, our guide has helped you narrow it down! We love spending time here exploring some of its top sights, like the Zoo, along with a few hidden gems like that sunset sailing trip we loved. These experiences helped us see a whole new side to this California gem!
If you’re planning visits to more U.S. cities, have a look at all our USA blogs here. Or check out a few related reads below for nearby destinations you may also want to add to your itinerary!
9 Best Things to do in Palm Springs, California
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Los Angeles: 3-Day Itinerary
10 Best Things to do in Phoenix, Arizona
How to Spend TWO DAYS on Catalina Island, California: 2-Day Itinerary