San Diego

Zoos & aquariums

San Diego’s diverse cuisine reflects its cosmopolitan charm, with influences from around the world. So, wondering what is San Diego food known for? The answer lies in its vibrant blend of coastal, Mexican, and global flavors. From local beer and wine to Peruvian ceviche, fish tacos, clam chowder, and wood-fired pizza, the city’s laid-back vibe shines through its food. Whether you're looking for romantic things to do in San Diego, on the hunt for San Diego's best family-friendly activities, or just a quick snack on your way to your next adventure, this guide to what to eat in San Diego will have you coming back for more.

There’s a lot to love in San Diego, from its amazing museums to its picture-postcard harbor. Yet, there are plenty of hidden gems away from the normal tourist traffic too. From ghostly tours through San Diego’s gambling and gunslinging heyday to leafy trails along the coast, some of the city’s best sights and sounds are not in any typical guidebook.

Nature lovers can walk among California’s rarest trees at Torrey Pines Nature Preserve or unearth the magic of one of La Jolla’s lesser-known sea caves. Night owls will love exploring the spooky spots of San Diego after dark. For food lovers, why not visit the buzzing favorite spots of hungry locals in North Park and Little Italy? Discover San Diego’s best hidden gems with these 10 top picks.

San Diego’s must-see hidden gems at a glance

Off-the-beaten-path places for history lovers: Cabrillo National Monument Tide Pools

Hidden gems for kids and families: Harper’s Topiary Garden

Secret spots for romantic moments: The Secret Swings in La Jolla

Lesser-known places with great views: Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial

Underrated attractions for art enthusiasts: Chicano Park

From golden beaches to buzzing neighborhoods, San Diego packs a surprising amount of variety into every sunlit corner. Whether you're into outdoor adventures, world-class museums, or unforgettable food, this Southern California gem offers something for every kind of traveler.

With just 48 hours, you can kayak through sea caves, get up close with wildlife, explore historic ships, and dine with ocean views—all without feeling rushed. This itinerary blends iconic sights with hidden gems, so you can experience the best of the city at a relaxed, SoCal pace.

Sitting pretty on the West Coast, San Diego is paradise not only for those who love life by the ocean but also for anyone who enjoys a breathtaking sunset. That’s because there are numerous sunset spots in San Diego where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the sun going down over the Pacific Ocean, golden rays shimmering on the water, like the aptly named Sunset Cliffs Natural Park and the historic Oceanside Municipal Pier.

From beautiful beaches where you can enjoy water sports of all kinds like La Jolla Shores Beach to panoramic viewing areas on mountain tops like Mount Soledad, this guide rounds up the best places to watch sunset in San Diego so you can spend less time searching for the perfect spot and more time enjoying the perfect views.