As if its perfect climate and beautiful landscape are not enough to draw in crowds of visitors, San Diego has a vast array of outdoor attractions and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. If you’re planning a vacation to America’s Finest City, check out these top outdoor activities to include in your itinerary.
What’s more fun than an amusement park filled with thrilling rides, games, food and attractions? One that’s smack dab in the middle of a beautiful beach! From roller coasters to adrenaline-fueling rides, laser tag, climbing walls, bumper cars, wave pools and much more, there’s something for everyone.
One of San Diego’s most lovely eco-treasures, Torrey Pines State Beach offers visitors views of beautiful flowers, cliffs, magnificent sunsets and a peek at some of the area’s wildlife. Hike the mountain’s 300-foot trail and gaze out at the gorgeous ocean. Then, walk along the trails from the top of the mountain down to the unspoiled beach.
See the sights on land and from the water on this totally cool tour that takes place on an amphibious vehicle. There’s nothing quite like the SEAL Tour where you ride on a bus that’s also a boat! The tour goes from driving on the streets of San Diego to plunging into the San Diego Harbor without missing a beat.
A 1,200 acre urban park in the heart of San Diego, Balboa Park plays host to numerous attractions, both indoors and out, for visitors of every age. There are 15 museums, botanical gardens, an open air concert venue, an outdoor pipe organ, The San Diego Zoo, theaters, walking paths, open spaces, restaurants and much more. Spend the day exploring all this famous outdoor San Diego venue has to offer.
Mysterious, majestic and amazingly beautiful, the sea caves of La Jolla are carved out of a 75-million-year-old sandstone sea cliff. Mostly accessible by kayak, they’re one of the most popular attractions for those looking to enjoy La Jolla’s Ecological Reserve. Take a tour, snorkel or just swim through these natural wonders; it’s an activity you won’t soon forget.
Considered to be one of the most pristine beaches in the country, the Coronado Municipal Beach offers visitors wide stretches of sand, shimmering waters and a relaxing day enjoying the perfect San Diego weather. There’s even a dog-friendly section on the north end and it’s also where surfers love to hang and catch waves.
Yes, it’s inside Balboa Park – but worth mentioning on its own because it’s just that great. The San Diego Zoo is home to thousands of animals in hundreds of different species and offers guests hours of interactive fun and discovery. Spread out over 100 acres of lush landscaping, the San Diego Zoo is world-famous for its natural habitats that are home to tigers, lions, polar bears, gorillas, elephants, giraffes and much more.
Located on the southern end of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument is a celebration of the landing of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the Portuguese explorer who sailed into what would later become the west coast in 1542. Tour the charming Old Point Loma Lighthouse, check out the tide pools and catch the striking views of San Diego.
