🏖️ Top 10 Things to Do in San Diego (With Local Tips, & Maps)
There seems to be almost an unlimited amount of things to do in San Diego – but thankfull we’ve scoured not only the internet, but also local knowledge for the top 10 things to do in San Diego.
San Diego is full of sunshine, surf, and surprises. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering your hometown, these 10 must-do activities—sourced from locals on Reddit—will give you the best of the city. We’ve included expanded details, local tips, images, and Google Maps links for easy planning.
🌳 Explore Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban park packed with cultural institutions, lush gardens, historic architecture, and walking paths. It’s also home to the San Diego Museum of Art, the Natural History Museum, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Whether you’re into science, art, or just want to wander, this park is your one-stop cultural destination.
Local Tip: Many museums offer free admission to San Diego residents on select Tuesdays. You can also catch a free pipe organ concert every Sunday at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion.
🐾 Visit the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the largest and most respected zoos in the world. Located in Balboa Park, it features more than 3,500 animals and open-air habitats that mimic each animal’s natural environment. You’ll see pandas, polar bears, gorillas, and so much more.
Local Tip: Start with the guided bus tour to get an overview, then hop on the Skyfari gondola to get from one side of the zoo to the other. And yes—parking is free.
🌊 Relax at Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach is known for its wide, flat shoreline and sparkling mica-infused sand. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or grabbing a drink at the historic Hotel Del Coronado. The beach is rarely crowded and offers some of the best sunset views in the city.
Local Tip: If the tide is low, walk south along the beach to spot the sunken remains of the SS Monte Carlo, a Prohibition-era gambling ship that ran aground in 1937.
Marvel at La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove is a scenic, cliffside beach surrounded by rocky tide pools, marine life, and excellent snorkeling. It’s also home to barking sea lions that lounge on the rocks and offer endless entertainment.
Local Tip: Grab rolled tacos from Rigoberto’s, then stroll along the La Jolla coast walk trail to the Children’s Pool to spot more sea lions and harbor seals.
⚓ Tour the USS Midway Museum
Step aboard the USS Midway, a decommissioned aircraft carrier turned museum docked in San Diego Bay. You can explore the flight deck, control tower, engine room, and dozens of aircraft exhibits, including fighter jets and helicopters.
Local Tip: Locals report that San Diego residents may be allowed access to the flight deck without full admission—ask at the gate to see if the policy is still active.
🍸 Stroll Through the Gaslamp Quarter
Downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter is known for its historic buildings, trendy rooftop bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. It’s a lively area after dark, with everything from speakeasies to fine dining.
Local Tip: If you want a more local vibe, head to North Park or South Park instead for laid-back breweries, thrift shops, and neighborhood bars.
🌮 Discover Old Town San Diego
Old Town marks the site of California’s first Spanish settlement. This historic area features adobe buildings, Mexican restaurants, artisan shops, and live mariachi performances. Great for families and history buffs alike.
Local Tip: Ditch the tourist spots and grab dinner at El Agave, a hidden gem with an elite tequila selection and upscale Mexican fare.
🥾 Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
This is one of the most beautiful places to hike in all of Southern California. Trails wind through rugged cliffs, native pines, and panoramic ocean views. It’s peaceful, scenic, and totally Instagram-worthy.
Local Tip: Avoid the parking fee by parking at the beach lot at the bottom and hiking up the hill. Bring water—it’s a steep one.
🍷 Eat Your Way Through Little Italy
Little Italy is one of San Diego’s best food neighborhoods. You’ll find everything from classic pasta joints and rooftop bars to buzzy brunch spots and craft breweries.
Local Tip: Visit the Little Italy Farmers Market on Saturdays (8 AM – 2 PM) for locally grown produce, street eats, and live music.
🛍️ Explore Seaport Village
Seaport Village is a charming waterfront area with shops, eateries, and street performers. It’s a great place to walk along the harbor with views of the bay and downtown skyline.
Local Tip: For a better food scene, head to Liberty Station, a few minutes away. It offers more diverse dining options and less tourist markup.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re snorkeling in La Jolla, sipping wine in Little Italy, or catching a sunset at Coronado Beach, San Diego has something unforgettable around every corner. These top 10 activities—backed by Reddit locals—showcase the best the city has to offer with practical tips to level up your experience.