Traveling is always good, whether it's to the countryside, to the countryside, or to the beach - it doesn't matter! A trip makes us renew our strength, enjoying the best of each place we go, doesn't it? And planning is essential to choose a destination that is really worthwhile, especially when we are talking about an international trip!
If you are thinking about venturing to a different place: San Diego is one of the most amazing places in the world, perfect for those who love the beach, sun and sea. That's why the city needs to be in your travel planning.
For this reason, Happy Tours has prepared a special post that will help you put together an amazing itinerary for when you are in San Diego. Read on and enjoy!
What are the best activities to do in San Diego?
San Diego is one of the most popular destinations for those who dream of visiting the United States. It is located on the west coast, bathed by the Pacific Ocean. No wonder the city is known as 'America's Finest City'.
Being a coastal city, enjoying the beaches is always the first activity that comes to tourists' minds. And it's not for nothing: its beaches have movie-like scenery - those who visit for the first time are dazzled by the beauty.
As much as the beaches are usually the most desired points for those who go to San Diego, but the city is so big and has so many attractions to be enjoyed, that it is worth to walk around and enjoy this city even more!
Learn what to do in San Diego, the city of happiness
San Diego is very popular for its many sights, and you will need several days to see only the most popular ones: this is exactly what makes the city perfect for a vacation. There is always a new activity to do every day!
And if you are already in California, how about knowing 12 reasons why you should travel to San Francisco, California? Read on!
1. San Diego Beaches
In San Diego you can enjoy many beaches on its coastline, we have separated some that you can't miss!
- La Jolla
La Jolla is one of the most famous beaches that needs to be on your itinerary. The sand is white and the sea has an intense blue color, not to mention the size - it is huge! With many kilometers of coastline to walk along at will.
It is famous for hosting many ocean animals, such as seals and sea lions: so don't be surprised and don't be alarmed if you see some flocks resting peacefully on the shore!
- Dog Beach
There is also Dog Beach, as the name suggests, the beach is popular for accepting dogs. That's right! Pet guardians are always there, and if you visit, you will find many puppies playing in the sand and in the water. It is a great option for those who like animals!
- Oceon Tide Pools
Another beach you can't miss is Ocean Beach Tide Pools, which is famous for having a bridge that leads to the Pier Café in the middle of the ocean, where you can enjoy lunch with typical regional dishes, as well as various types of drinks! Not to mention the experience that this place will cause!
- Pacific Beach
This is a very nice neighborhood with a giant sidewalk - with a bike path! Ideal for a stroll in the late afternoon. A great place to stay this vacation season! It is full of restaurants and bars, with great prices.
- Mission Beach
This is a continuation of Pacific Beach, with a youthful, fun and lively feel. It also has a great bike path. And on this beach you can find Belmont Park, an old amusement park, with roller coasters, wave simulator and more!
- Ocean Beach
This is a great beach for those who enjoy a more local vibe, with a beautiful sunset, it's full of taco stands, surf stores, antique stores - this beach has a very retro atmosphere, giving it a feeling that you are in another era! Plus a great wooden pier to take your pictures!
2. San Diego Parks
San Diego is also very famous for its natural parks, where you can take great walks and enjoy the cool wind. Check out the main ones:
- La Jolla Hermosa Park
San Diego is home to many great parks. You can start at La Jolla Hermosa Park, a tree-lined park located on La Jolla Beach. Another perfect park to enjoy the outdoors is Palisades Park, also located on the waterfront, a little further south in San Diego.
- Fiesta Island Park
There are several larger parks to visit, such as Fiesta Island Park, the largest in the city, where you can visit the San Diego Youth Aquatic Center. There you can rent kayaks and stand up paddle boards for fun on the lake.
In San Diego you will find many more parks worth visiting such as Vacation Isle Park, Tecolote Canyon Natural Park and Nature Center, Pioneer Park, Waterfront Park, and Marina Park South.
3. San Diego Museums
In addition to the beautiful parks, San Diego also has many museums to visit and improve your knowledge even more! We have cited some of its fantastic museums. Check them out:
- Chinese Historical Museum
The Chinese Historical Museum is a great choice for learning more about Chinese culture and ways of life! You can see more about the oriental culture, customs, food! If you like oriental culture you can't miss this museum!
- Junipero Serra Museum
The Junipero Serra Museum shows a bit of the city's past. The Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House is for mystery buffs, known as the historic house of paranormal investigation, preserved as it was built.
- Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum
The Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum tells the story of aviation in San Diego. You will see several aircraft that have made their mark on the country's history.
- San Diego Model Railroad Museum
The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is another one on the list. It depicts the history of the city's locomotives, with many realistic miniature trains and locomotives that helped build the city in the past.
- The Firehouse Museum
To close, The Firehouse Museum, a museum dedicated to the county's fire department. For those who admire this profession, it is another great option.
4. Amusement Parks in San Diego
Do you like amusement parks? It is not only in Orlando that they are found in the United States, San Diego also has very cool options for people of all ages!
- SeaWorld San Diego
The most famous park in San Diego is undoubtedly SeaWorld San Diego! The show and fun of the place is all about the seals, whales, and dolphins. And its series of fun roller coasters, with several attractions to do in the park!
- Belmont Park
Belmont Park is not far behind! You can venture out on the thrill rides and enjoy all the attractions at this amazing park, located on Mission Beach. You can't miss it!
- Legoland
This park has all its theme in legos, replicas of American cities reproduced in lego. Even the park's toys have this theme in their design!
There are many other sights to visit in San Diego, such as the Mormon Battalion, the Cabrillo National Monument, the National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military, El Prado, Plaza de Panama Fountain.
5. San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is huge, and super focused on preservation and research of the species. It attracts thousands of tourists every month. Fun and entertainment are guaranteed in the city! With several species of animals, there are pandas, polar bears, koalas, kangaroos, and many more! For sure an incredible experience!
What is the best time to go to San Diego?
This is a great city to visit during all months of the year! However, if you want to enjoy the summer even more, take that dip in the beach, the months between June and August, the American summer months!
What is the best way to get around San Diego?
For you to be able to go to all these places, the best option is to have a car at your disposal. Renting a car is always the most recommended for those who want to optimize time and make the most of it.
Here, at Happy Tours, we partner with the best car rental companies in the United States. We have the best car rental prices in all major US cities.
If you are heading to San Diego, California, be sure to check out the advantageous conditions on our website. And what about taking an electric car? We have separated a post for you to understand better: Understand how electric car rental works!
There is no lack of options in San Diego, you can visit its beaches, museums, and eat at great restaurants! Get organized and go to this destination on your next vacation! We hope you enjoyed this guide to San Diego, and that you got excited about traveling!
And I couldn't fail to tell you how to prepare a trip abroad safely and practically. Check it out!
Until the next blogpost!
