20 fun things to do in San Diego with family, friends, or alone

20 fun things to do in San Diego with family, friends, or alone

Warm weather, ocean vistas, great food, and plenty of good times await with these fun things to do in San Diego.

San Diego's gorgeous Pacific location and year-round sunny weather means there’s no end to the activities it offers. From iconic landmarks to dazzling hidden gems, you won't run out of things to do here.

Check out the storied streets of the Gaslight District and breezy charm of Carlsbad Village on food tours, tasting your way through San Diego's culinary highlights. Dial up the romance with a sunset cruise across the bay. No matter your preference, these fun things to do in San Diego are bound to leave a lasting impression.

Fun things to do in San Diego as a couple

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Enjoy a sunset cruise on the water.

1. Sail off into the sunset on a cruise

Experience San Diego’s romantic side with a sunset cruise of San Diego Bay. Watch the skyline slowly light up as the sun sets, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.

Best time to go:

The best time to enjoy a sunset cruise is undoubtedly during the warmer months, from March to September, when you can comfortably relax on the deck.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106. Tours typically start around 5:30 PM.

Cruises & boat tours in San Diego

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Learn about San Diego when the sun goes down on a ghost walk.

2. Explore San Diego after dark

Get your heart racing on a tour exploring the city's paranormal past. Visit haunted locations and hear spine-chilling stories from your guide.

Best time to go:

For the spookiest experience, aim for an October visit. The fall chill and Halloween atmosphere add a special touch to the tour.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 2415 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110. Tours typically run from 7:00 PM onward.

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Learn all about the city's naval history.

3. USS Midway Museum

Step aboard the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century at the USS Midway Museum. Experience life at sea without leaving port through a self-guided audio tour of exhibits and restored aircraft.

Best time to go:

It's an indoor activity, so it's great all year round. Weekdays or early mornings on weekends are usually less crowded.

Address and opening hours:

910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. Open daily, 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

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La Jolla is stunning and well-worth the exploration.

4. Cycle through La Jolla

Join a bike tour and explore beautiful coastlines, visit seal beaches, and cycle through the stunning La Jolla Ecological Park, making for a memorable day with your partner.

Best time to go:

Spring through fall offers the most comfortable weather for biking, though it can be enjoyed year-round.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 6905 La Jolla Scenic S Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037. Tour times vary.

Fun things to do in San Diego with kids

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Kids will love the San Diego Zoo and all its animals.

5. San Diego Zoo

Meet thousands of animals across hundreds of species and subspecies at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. This zoo is one of the best in the world and is home to giraffes, gorillas, polar bears, pandas, and hundreds more species.

Best time to go:

Spring and fall both offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, which is ideal for exploring the large zoo grounds.

Address and opening hours:

2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. Open daily, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

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The museum was founded in 1874 as the San Diego Society of Natural History.

6. San Diego Natural History Museum

Dino fossils, nature trails, and a 'living lab' home to scorpions, lizards, and other not-so-cuddly locals—it's all here at the San Diego Natural History Museum.

Best time to go:

The museum is open every day. It's even open until 10 PM on Fridays.

Address and opening hours:

San Diego Natural History Museum, 1788 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101

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See whales and dolphins on a cruise of the bay.

7. See marine life up close

Get up close and personal with majestic whales and playful dolphins on a whale-watching cruise off the San Diego coast. This provides an exciting opportunity for your little ones to learn about marine life while experiencing it firsthand.

Best time to go:

Whale watching season in San Diego runs from December to April. For dolphin watching, summer and fall are ideal.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at San Diego Bay, California. Cruises usually start around 9:00 AM.

Take to the water in San Diego

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Fun things to do in San Diego on your own

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San Diego comes to life at night.

8. Sit back and enjoy in the city lights

Immerse yourself in the stunning views of San Diego at night. From the glittering skyline to the beautifully lit monuments, this is an excellent way to experience the city's charm after sundown.

Best time to go:

The lights are great all year round, though longer nights in winter may offer more opportunities to see them.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 825a Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101. Tours typically start around 8:00 PM.

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Amphibious boats can go both on land and in water!

9. See the city from all perspectives

Tour San Diego by land or sea in an amphibious boat! Hop on board and see some of the city’s unmissable landmarks and historical sites from the road and the ocean. 

Best time to go:

The warmer months from March to October are ideal for fully enjoying both aspects of this special boat.

Address and opening hours:

Meeting points and tour times vary.

Best guided tours in San Diego

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A walking tour of San Diego is one of the best ways to learn about the city.

10. Discover local history with a walking tour

Grab your smartphone and embark on an interactive audio tour of the waterfront. You'll learn about San Diego's rich maritime history and explore the captivating Seaport Village. It's perfect for those who prefer to make their way through new cities at their own pace.

Best time to go:

Daytime hours are recommended for the best views and photo opportunities.

Address and opening hours:

Start at 1306 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101. Available daily, 5:00 AM-8:00 PM.

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Enjoy the freedom of the waves at Solana Beach.

11. Enjoy the freedom of the waves at Solana Beach

Ride the waves on your own time at Solana Beach. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, you'll love the freedom and thrill of the ocean. If you don't tend to travel with your wetsuit, you can rent one one for an additional fee.

Best time to go:

Spring to fall is ideal for surfing, with water temperatures being more comfortable.

Address and opening hours:

Solana Beach, San Diego. The beach is accessible 24/7. Surfboard rentals are available 10:00 AM-5:00 PM.

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Enjoy a scenic drive along the iconic southern California coastline.

12. Go for a scenic drive

Experience one of the world's most iconic coastal routes with a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway between LA and San Diego. You can also enjoy audio tour which will prompt you to stop at interesting spots and soak up the spectacular views.

Best time to go:

Spring and fall offer the best driving conditions, with less traffic and clear skies for stunning views.

Address:

Start at CA-1, Los Angeles, CA 90045. Route open 24/7.

Exciting day trips from San Diego

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Rent a bike and explore San Diego’s streets and windswept coastline.

13. Ride along the coast with a bit of pedal power

Discover the beauty of San Diego's coastline by e-bike on a tour of Torrey Pines or North Coast. Choose your preferred route, then take advantage of the bike's battery power to make sure the journey is enjoyable, even for beginners!

Best time to go:

E-bike tours can be enjoyed year-round due to San Diego's mild climate. Spring and fall offer less crowded routes.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 113 N Acacia Ave, Solana Beach, CA 92075. Tours start around 8:00 AM.

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Nature comes to life in La Jolla’s seaside neighborhood.

14. Explore an underwater world by kayak

Embark on an exciting kayak adventure at the famed 7 Caves of La Jolla. A kayak tour sees you paddling your way through these natural wonders, exploring the abundant marine life, and learning about the geological history from your guide.

Best time to go:

During summer and fall, the waters are calmer and clearer, providing excellent conditions for marine life viewing.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 2144 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla, CA 92037. Tours usually start around 9:00 AM.

Fun things to do in San Diego if you like food and drink

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Join a food tour to taste the best eats San Diego has to offer.

15. Eat what the locals eat on a guided food tour

Feast your way around San Diego on a food tour. Experience the city's vibrant food scene by tasting delicious dishes from local eateries while learning about the city's culture and history.

Best time to go:

Outdoor dining may be more enjoyable in the warmer months.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 2897 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Tours usually start around 11:30 AM.

Discover food & drink in San Diego

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Enjoy champagne and seasonal dishes on a cruise.

16. Dinner and a cruise

Savor the flavors of San Diego while cruising its scenic waterways. Enjoy a lavish buffet and refreshing drinks, all against the backdrop of San Diego's stunning skyline.

Best time to go:

Spring to fall is best as it's when you can enjoy eating on the deck in the fresh sea air.

Address and opening hours:

Cruises depart from 1800 North Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101. Tours typically start around 11:00 AM.

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Take a culinary journey through Little Italy

17. Little Italy

Explore the flavors of Little Italy on a walking tour with tastings. Sample mouth-watering pizzas, pasta, gelato, and more from a selection of authentic Italian eateries, while learning about the neighborhood's history and culture.

Best time to go:

The food tour can be enjoyed all year round, but spring and fall offer mild weather for a pleasant walk.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 1665 India St, San Diego, CA 92101. Tours usually start around 4:30 PM.

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San Diego has a thriving craft beer scene.

18. Savor the city's beer scene

Get a taste of San Diego's craft beer scene on a brewery tour with tastings and  food pairings. Sample a variety of beers, enjoy food pairings, and get an insider's view into the brewing process.

Best time to go:

Summer and fall are particularly popular due to several beer festivals happening during these seasons.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104. Tours start from 5:30 PM on weekdays and 12:00 PM on weekends.

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Experience the best of East Village's culinary scene.

19. Check out East Village

Stroll through the streets of the East Village, stopping at local eateries and watering holes on the East Village food and drink walking tour. Discover the culinary variety of this vibrant neighborhood, from craft beers to old family recipes.

Best time to go:

Spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures for walking.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 1429 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. Tour times start around 5:30

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20. Discover delicious food in the old town

One of the most fun things to do in San Diego is try a number of iconic dishes in the Old Town, San Diego's historic heart. Here you can enjoy tequila tastings, moreish tacos, and sumptuous seafood.

Best time to go:

The city really leans into its spooky history, so go around Halloween for a more atmospheric experience.

Address and opening hours:

Meet at 2461 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110. Tour times typically start around 4:30 PM.

FAQs

What are some fun things to do in San Diego at night?

San Diego has a vibrant nightlife with a little something for everyone.You can tour the city's illuminated landmarks, including the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. You can also see the city shine at night from the Pacific as you cruise or sail along the San Diego Bay after dark.

Are there any fun day trips from San Diego that I should consider?

The Pacific Coast Highway is a great option for those looking to experience the California coast. The drive takes you past some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, including beaches, cliffs, and rolling hills. Los Angeles and Hollywood are also just 2 hours away, which is perfectly doable in a day.

What are some popular festivals or events in San Diego?

The annual San Diego County Fair in Del Mar is a popular event that features a variety of attractions, including rides, games, food, and live entertainment. Music lovers may want to attend the San Diego Music Thing or the Kaboo Del Mar Music Festival, both of which feature a variety of musical genres.

What are some family-friendly fun activities in San Diego?

San Diego Zoo is always a hit with kids. The zoo is home to over 3,700 animals from all over the world, including elephants, lions, tigers, and bears. The USS Midway Museum is a former aircraft carrier that now houses an aircraft museum. However, a straight-forward day at Solana Beach is just as exciting. One of the most fun things to do with kids in San Diego is a walk along the iconic Sesame Street sidewalk and visit its famous residents. 

What are some fun outdoor activities to do in San Diego?

Water sports are popular in the area, and include surfing at Solana Beach and kayaking at La Jolla. Bike tours are a great way to get around the city and explore, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy walking around Balboa Park and the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. All of these activities are best enjoyed during the summer months.