THE 15 BEST Things to Do in San Diego - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in San Diego

Things to Do in San Diego, CA - San Diego Attractions

Things to Do in San Diego

Say hello to SoCal living. First stop is the beach. Then, tour the Gaslamp Quarter on a Segway, or hang with wildlife at La Jolla Cove or the world famous San Diego Zoo.

Book these experiences for a close-up look at San Diego.

Top Attractions in San Diego

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

Historic aircraft carrier turned museum showcasing an array of aircraft, interactive bridge tours, and a self-guided audio exploration. Features flight deck simulators and panoramic harbor views.
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Interactive zoo adventure featuring close encounters with diverse wildlife, bus and sky tram tours, and opportunities for hands-on experiences like giraffe feeding.
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Coastline enclave with serene views, perfect for observing sea lions and seals in their habitat. Features a small beach, scenic cliffs, and sunset vistas. Ideal for nature walks and picnics.
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Cultural hub with a collection of museums, picturesque gardens, and Spanish-inspired architecture. Includes artisan shops, dining, and tranquil Japanese Garden with koi ponds.
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Scenic coastal trails and beach walks, with diverse landscapes from rugged cliffs to wildflowers in bloom. Features stunning ocean vistas and unique geological formations.
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Baseball stadium in the heart of the Gaslamp District with a friendly vibe, diverse fan base, and panoramic outfield views. Includes activities for kids and a variety of seating to enjoy the game.
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Coastal sanctuary in Point Loma with panoramic ocean vistas, tide pools, and historical lighthouse tours. Ideal for nature walks, whale watching, and exploring California's past.
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Coastal park with panoramic ocean views, perfect for sunset watching from cliffside trails. Witness surfers, tide pools, and seasonal whale sightings amidst blooming flora.
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Veteran's tribute amid a national park with personal plaques, tranquil ambience, and panoramic views. Historical site provides insights and visual splendor from a high vantage point.
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Spanning the bay, this iconic bridge presents panoramic views and an engaging drive with a notable 80-degree bend. Enjoy by car, ferry, or boat excursion.
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Scenic coastal cliffs present panoramic vistas and opportunities for tide pool exploration and hiking, complemented by historic sites and oceanic splendor.
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Other Top Attractions around San Diego




*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • Jennifer B
    Houston, TX30 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the USS Midway Museum! Exploring the aircraft carrier was exciting, and the exhibits were both engaging and informative. A fantastic experience for history buffs and families!
    Written June 3, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Bonnie K
    Savannah, GA172 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The animals are great in natural habitat. Lots of fun walking through labyrinth paths to all animals. Need a full day there, for sure to see all/most. Do open air bus tour first to get oriented.
    Written May 19, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jennifer B
    Houston, TX30 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    La Jolla Cove is stunning! The clear waters, beautiful cliffs, and playful sea lions make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day. Great for snorkeling and breathtaking views. Don’t miss it!
    Written June 3, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • worktotravel14
    Trenton, NJ3,207 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I forgot that I had been to Balboa park. In truth it is gateway to gorgeous museums with world class art exhibits and a promenade for gorgeous vegetation. We spent most of our time in the world of Giant trees and meandered through the cactus garden. In truth we probably would not have made it to these places if the botanical gardens were open. With that in mind, it was a real treat. The downside was that lots of the park was closed for construction and private events. I wish websites would give indications of that scenario. Still, loved my visit.
    Written May 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • laura t
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing views. Good variety of paths in terms of difficulty and length. We saw blue whales’ water spouts as we looked over the ocean and 2 peregrine falcons in the trees! Gorgeous place enjoyed by many ages and abilities. So glad we took time to check it out.
    Written May 28, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Phiip P
    Leighton Buzzard, UK313 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our first ever live baseball game and boy did it live up to our expectations. This is a beautiful sports arena with very comfy seats much better than we have in the UK.
    Staff were all very friendly and helpful. Food was good well you have to have a hot dog don't you. The shop was very very busy as you would expect on a match day but the queues were handled to a Disney level. Would love to go back here again one day
    Written May 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • worktotravel14
    Trenton, NJ3,207 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Travel through a military base to learn about this monument. Depending on the time you have, you can do a shorter visit which allows you to take in expansive views of lower Sand Diego, view Mexico on a clear day and take in plane landings at the military base. With more time visit the Old Point Loma lighthouse and walk trails that allow you to see amazing vistas. Finally with a car, visit the lower part of Cabrillo National Monument and visit Old Point Loma station. Unfortunately, we did not have a car nor time to do this and the Monument has a strict close, but we loved our visit there. The visitors center was closed at the time.
    Written May 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jemlnlx
    Bronx, NY5,331 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Spectacular sunsets!!!

    Parking can be tough...especially as your approach sunset time.

    The limited lots fill up quickly but there is a decent amount of street parking along Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and nearby side streets.

    We arrived to the area about 30 minutes before sunset and although the lots were full, we got parking on Sunset Cliffs Blvd. I would expect it may be a little tougher on the weekends or during peak vacation times.

    Be sure to give yourself some time to walk along Sunset Cliffs Blvd. as there are multiple cliffs and coves offering a variety of views throughout sunset.

    As expected...once th sun has set...traffic to leave the area is a bit rough.
    Written April 29, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Edwelsh
    North Canton, OH6,805 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We kept seeing this place from down below. After finally making it up there, we saw that what we were seeing was the monument under wraps for refurbishment. Nonetheless it’s a very moving tribute and it’s a beautiful spot for it. On top of the hill with unobstructed views of the surrounding area. It wasn’t a very clear day but still spectacular.
    Written May 12, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Edwelsh
    North Canton, OH6,805 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We drove over to Coronado Island and back on the bridge. It’s very easy to get on it on both ends. I hear the views are great, I was driving and it was white knuckles both ways. Tall bridges with short side rails are great for views, but they make me uneasy for sure. Still, it’s beautiful to look at.
    Written May 13, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • D&S
    DES PERES33 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Wonderful views of ocean and of Coronado Island and naval base. Tide pools are interesting to explore, as well as the Cabrillo Monument area and the lighthouse
    Written May 4, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • linda8201
    Scottsdale, AZ403 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Awesome and safe experience floating above the clifs! DO it! It is an incredible experience of 20 minutes soaring above the coast
    Written May 31, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
The above attraction descriptions were created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for any of the above hotel descriptions. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in one of these AI-generated descriptions is inaccurate, please share your feedback.
Reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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