Ten Things To Do In San Diego

by Shelby Wright

San Diego has such a lot going on that it can be difficult to plan the things to do in San Diego during your vacation. There are places to visit, activities to do, things to see and experiences to enjoy. There is such a variety that everyone will tell you something different, but here are ten top highlights we think you should make time for during your visit to appreciate what the San Diego lifestyle is about.

1. Hit the Beaches: The beach lifestyle attracts many people to San Diego, whether they are surfing enthusiasts, swimmers, life guards, beach walkers or just enjoy sunbathing and hanging out with the beach crowd. There are many beaches and many surf conditions to choose from in the San Diego region. You haven’t fully experienced San Diego until you have spent time on a beach or two.

2. Dine Out on a Fish Taco: San Diego cuisine has a strong Mexican influence, and one of the local favorites is a fish taco. It’s a deep fried battered piece of fish in a corn tortilla. Once you have tried it you will be hooked!

3. Cross over to Mexico: Foreign travel is just a short trip from San Diego, south of the border to Mexico, and on to vibrant Tijuana, a metropolis just south of the border. It’s a safe city to visit, but don’t forget your passport, and remember that Mexico is another country with its own laws. You are so close to the border at San Diego that you should take the time to experience Mexico too.

4. The Old Town: While San Diego’s rich history isn’t always apparent among the modern developments, a visit to the preserved Old Town State Historic Park can instantly take you back to Southern California’s past. There are recreations of Old San Diego found everywhere you look in this part of the city. Although there are many fine restaurants here, make sure you visit the Old Town Mexican Cafe, as it has a reputation for serving the best Mexican food around San Diego.

5. San Diego Zoo: You have to include the cute pandas at the San Diego Zoo in your list of family things to do in San Diego. The kids will not forgive you if you overlook this attraction. It’s best to see them in the morning when they are more active. There is a lot more to see at this world class Zoo as well, of course.

6. Balboa Park: After you check out the pandas, take a trip to the nearby jewel of the city - Balboa Park. The atmosphere is breathtaking here, no matter when you visit. If you visit on Tuesdays you may find that most museums have free admission. During your visit, you should try dining at the Prado Restaurant to experience great food in a delightful setting.

7. The Gaslamp District: Downtown San Diego includes the Gaslamp Quarter, the entertainment, shopping and dining heart of the San Diego region. It is a vibrant part of town, with lots of activity and street entertainment to enjoy, especially in the evenings.

8. Spend a Day Using The Trolley: San Diego’s trolley is a great way to see San Diego. Try a day pass for a fun day getting around the city. Most people travel by car rather than the public transport system, and the San Diego roads can get crowded. Using the trolley gives a different perspective of the city.

9. Play a Round of Golf: San Diego has a great selection of golf courses to go with its great weather. Torrey Pines is a championship course with great ocean views to enjoy.

10. Take a Harbor Cruise: San Diego is a maritime city, built around one of the first West Coast ports and now a major commercial port and naval base. See this fascinating busy harbor from a cruise boat.

There you have 10 top places to visit and things to experience to get a good taste of the San Diego lifestyle during your San Diego vacation.

About the Author:

Shelby Wright believes everyone should have at least one vacation in Southern California. Vibrant San Diego has many activities, sights and experiences to offer the San Diego visitor. Discover more detailed recommendations of what to do in San Diego on vacation.

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