This article showcases the ultimate San Diego bucket list!
A not long time ago, I published my Ultimate Bucket List for Los Angeles.
I decided to publish the article to celebrate 14 years since moving to Los Angeles. The idea was to present the city from a resident / local perspective since I have done almost the impossible to turn every nook and cranny of the city.
Well, guess what? My thirst for exploration and adventure has not stopped in Los Angeles. I have traveled miles and miles to nearby counties looking for beaches, lakes, mountains, and delicious things to eat.
In all honesty, I have been to San Diego more than 30 times. Sometimes, we decide to leave early in the morning and then come back home in the late evening. The city has grown on us!
As a consequence, I want to share my “expertise” about San Diego with all of you. I do this with a lot of respect since I have not lived in the city. Hope my effort sheds the correct light on this place so loved by us.
In addition, the post serves as my personal bucket list since there are many places I want to visit or revisit.
I have put together more than 200 ideas to get you started with America’s Finest City.
Please note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link. Of course, this comes at no extra cost to you and helps me to keep offering solid information to readers.
Table of Contents
Context
As with Los Angeles, the city and the county of San Diego occupy a large portion of land. The country has an extension of 4,526 square miles and a population of about 3 million.
San Diego seems to be a synonym of beaches but, keep in mind, it has mountains and deserts too. The Northern and Eastern parts of the county do not receive a large number of visitors but that does not make them less fascinating. In my opinion, that is where you are going to find the true gems.
Even though San Diego is not a massive metropolitan area, there is no way you are going to be able to see everything it has to offer in a day or visit.
You may stop by the places that make the city unique. Or, you may be able to include a visit to a town outside the city boundaries. Either way, San Diego’s beautiful weather is waiting for you with open arms.
Let’s dig in straight into all the exciting stuff you can see, do, eat, and enjoy in San Diego!
Beach Town Gear
San Diego is pretty much a beach town. Therefore, I recommend bringing the right gear to town. As I spend a lot of time on beach towns, I have my gear packed and ready to throw in the car. Here is an idea of what I take to the beach.
- Walking Shoes – Comfortable walking shoes are a must. My go-to brands are Clarks, Tevas, and Sketchers.
- Flip Flops – Flip flops are a must on any beach trip. I am partial to the Tevas brand. >>Take a look at these beautiful flip flops
- Water Sandals – If you want a more polished look, check out these leather-made salt water sandals.
- Sweatshirt – A sweatshirt is a must to keep me warm during chilly mornings and nights. >Click to see this California appropriate option here
- Sun Block – Do not leave the house (or the car) without applying sunblock. I repeat, always wear sunblock when outdoors. >Buy sunblock here
- Lip Balm with Sunscreen – Protect your lips by applying a balm with sunscreen. >Get one of the best lip balms here
- Wide Brim Hat – A wide brim hat is a great way to protect your scalp, face, and neck. The ones manufactured by FURTALK come with an anti-UV function. >Buy this amazing hat here
- Sunglasses – These are another must when it comes to protecting from the sun. A polarized, sporty pair works better outdoors. >Take a look at this wonderful pair
- Towels – This is the accessory I always forget about. WETCAT’s Turkish Towels take minimum space and dry fast. >Buy a Turkish towel here
- Foldable Chairs – Portable chairs allow you to set camp at the beach, park, winery, and even a parking lot. A classic Coleman portable chair is a solid choice. >>Buy portable camping chair
- Beach Blanket – For laying on the sand, a beach blanket is necessary. Good ones are waterproof, sandproof, and light. The blankets manufactured by Wekapo fit several adults and are durable. >Buy this nice beach blanket here
- Soft Cooler Bag – A soft cooler bag with enough capacity is great for having drinks and some food items at hand. I love my CleverMade collapsible cooler bag. >Take a look at my cooler here
- Water Bottle – Do not forget to bring water! Keep yours cold by taking a beautiful Hydro Flask water bottle. >Check out the insane options here
- THERMOS Tumblers – I have been a fan of the THERMOS brand since I received a tumbler as a gift. The tumblers keep drinks hot for hours. >>Buy THERMOS insulated tumblers here
- Dry Bag – Keep your valuables (and electronics) protected by bringing a dry bag. >These dry bag is awesome
- Beach Bag or Large Tote – Carry all your gear on an amazing beach bag. Get one with tons of pockets (I love pockets). >>>Check out my beach bag top pick
- Camera – I have never gotten used to taking pictures exclusively with my phone. I prefer to use the Sony Alpha a6000. It is compact and takes gorgeous pictures. >Buy Sony Camera here
- Tripod – A compact tripod to take your photos and videos to a different level. >>Check out this popular option here
- Portable Power Bank – It is a pain to keep phones charged on beach trips. Having a power bank is a lifesaver. The Anker portable charger can charge a phone 5 times. >Buy this incredible power bank here
The Classics
These are some of the spots that make San Diego famous and unique!
- Balboa Park
- Old Town (the birthplace of California)
- La Jolla Cove
- Cabrillo National Monument
- Hotel del Coronado
- Coronado Bridge
- USS Midway Museum
- Gaslamp Square
- Seaport Village
- Petco Park (baseball stadium)
San Diego Bucket List – Museums
Those who prefer arts and culture have a lot to choose from. Several of the museums located in the City of San Diego are concentrated on Balboa Park.
- Air & Space Museum
- Museum of Art
- Natural History Museum
- Maritime Museum
- Museum of Man
- Ruben H. Fleet Science Center
- Model Railroad Museum
- Automotive Museum
- Mingei International Museum
- The New Children’s Museum
- Museum of Photographic Arts
- Botanical Building
- Spanish Village Art Center
- Japanese Friendship Garden
- Star of India
- San Diego History Center
- Timken Museum of Art
- Whaler House
- San Diego Art Institute
- Mormon Battalion Historic Site
- Lux Art Institute (Encinitas)
- California Surf Museum (Oceanside)
- Museum of Making Music (Carlsbad)
- Museum of History & Art (Coronado)
- Julian Pioneer Museum
- Museum of Contemporary Art (La Jolla)
- Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum (Vista)
- Oceanside Museum of Art
- Olaf Wieghorst Museum & Western Heritage Center (El Cajon)
Cool Neighborhoods
These neighborhoods offer modern vibes, trendy eateries, and art galleries.
- Gaslamp Quarter
- East Village
- Little Italy
- Hillcrest
- North Park
- South Park
- Barrio Logan
- University Heights
Food, Delicious Food
If you like food (and who doesn’t?), come prepared with your stretchy pants.
- Mercato (Huge farmer’s market in Little Italy)
- Liberty Public Market
- Oscar’s Mexican Seafood (you need to try this place)
- Carnita’s Snack Shack
- Buona Forchetta
- Hodad’s
- Bali Hai Restaurant
- Las Cuatro Milpas
- The Waterfront Bar & Grill
- Hamilton Taverna
- OB Noodle House
- Bird Rock Coffee Roasters
- Harry’s Coffee Shop
- Point Loma Seafoods
- El Indio
- Puesto
- CUCINA Urbana
- Phil’s BBQ
- Urban Solace
- Juniper & Ivy
- Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
- Tacos El Gordo
- Aqui Es Texcoco
Special Food Mention
- You cannot leave San Diego County without trying one of the apple pies from Julian. This little mountain town is located about 1.5 hours from the city but you can find the pies on local grocery stores. I would prefer to eat in the town (even if I have to drive). I love the Dutch apple pie with cinnamon ice cream,
Festivals and Markets
It is impossible to mention all the events that take place during the year. Here are some of the most popular (but there is something going on every weekend).
- San Diego County Fair (Del Mar)
- ArtWalk
- Contemporary Art Fair
- Restaurant Week
- Beer Week
- Film Festival
- Cinco de Mayo in Old Town
- Kaaboo del Mar
- Shakespeare Festival
- Fleet Week
- Coronado Classic Speed Festival
- Miramar Air Show
- San Diego Greek Festival
- Inter-Tribal Powwow
- Julian Gold Rush Days
- Parade of Lights
- December Nights
- Ocean Beach Street Fair
- Comic-Con International
- San Gennaro Feast
Awesome Hotels
These are the places to be if you want a historic experience. Beware! Some of these are believed to be haunted. You do not have to stay in one of these hotels. A visit to the restaurant (s) or lounge would be a nice experience.
- Hotel del Coronado
- Grande Colonial
- The Horton
- La Valencia
- The Sofia
- Gaslamp Plaza Suites
- Ramada Gaslamp
- Hotel Bel-Air
Hip and Trendy Hotels
If you prefer something more modern, here are some options for your stay or for spending an evening.
- Hotel Indigo
- The Pearl
- The Lafayette Hotel
- Omni San Diego
- Kimpton Solamar
- Hotel Z
- Andaz San Diego
- The Keating Hotel
- Pacific Terrace Hotel
- Pendry San Diego
Beach Towns
Northern San Diego County has super hip and laid-back beach towns and communities. In my opinion, all of them are worth a visit.
- Oceanside
- Carlsbad
- Leucadia
- Encinitas
- Cardiff-by-the-Sea
- Solana Beach
- Del Mar
Beaches
If beaches are your thing, you have arrived at the right place! Ask around since locals have their favorites (and hidden spots).
- Oceanside Beach
- Carlsbad Beach
- South Carlsbad Beach
- Moonlight Beach
- Swami’s (one of the best surfing spots in the country)
- San Elijo Beach
- Black’s Beach (nude beach)
- La Jolla Shores
- Children’s Pool
- Pacific Beach
- Ocean Beach
- Mission Beach
- Coronado Beach
- Silver Strand Beach
- Plus, multiple beaches in the Mission Bay area
Piers (North to South)
Strolling on a pier is a Southern California classic. There are multiple options for sunset watching.
- Oceanside Pier
- Scripps Pier (La Jolla)
- Ocean Beach Pier
- Crystal Pier (Pacific Beach Pier, it has cottages where you can stay)
- Imperial Beach
San Diego Bucket List – Outdoors
The number of open spaces in San Diego is mind-blowing. Just take a look at the list below. As a matter of fact, we, Southern Californians, love being outside (even in winter).
- Torrey Pines State Reserve
- Anza Borrego State Park
- Buena Vista Lagoon
- Agua Hedionda Lagoon
- Batiquitos Lagoon
- San Diego Botanical Gardens
- Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens
- Sunset Cliffs
- San Elijo Lagoon
- Point Loma Tidepools
- Border Field State Park
- Palomar Mountain State Park
- Potato Chip Rock Hike
- William Heise County Park
- Volcan Mountain Preserve
- Lake Calavera Preserve
- Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve
- Cowles Mountain
- La Jolla Indian Reservation
- Mount Laguna
- Cedar Creek Falls
- Mission Trails Regional Park
- Living Coast Discovery Center (Chula Vista)
- Cuyamaca Peak
- Cuyamaca Rancho State Park
- Blue Sky Ecological Reserve
- Fletcher Cove Park
- Elfin Forest Recreational Reserve
- San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park
- Three Sisters Falls
- Lake Poway
- Rose Canyon Open Space Park
- Hidden Sea Cave at Sunset Cliffs
Viewpoints
Here are some viewpoint options in case you want to see the area from above.
- The California Tower (at the Museum of Man)
- Soledad
- Cabrillo National Monument
- Presidio Park
- Cowles Mountain
- Coronado Bay Bridge
Universities
Centers of Education are interesting places to visit too.
- University of California, San Diego
- San Diego State University
- University of San Diego
Theme Parks
Here are some options in case you need to pacify your kids.
- Sea World
- Lego Land
- Belmont Park
San Diego Bucket List – Zoos
- World Famous San Diego Zoo
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park
- Birch Aquarium
Sports
I am not a sports fan but seems like every other person here is obsessed with one of the following teams.
- Padres (baseball)
- Sockers (soccer)
- Gulls (ice hockey)
More Fun
Here are some more options for those who want more of life (like me!)
- San Diego de Alcala Mission
- San Luis Rey de Francia Mission (Oceanside)
- Pala Estancia
- Santa Ysabel Estancia
- Leo Carillo Historic State Park
- La Jolla Murals
- Torrey Pines Gliderport
- Palomar Observatory
- Point Loma Lighthouses (Old and New)
- Kayak La Jolla Caves
- Take the Coronado Ferry
- Go whale watching
- Carlsbad Flower Fields (spring)
- Harbor Island
- Ride bikes (ride sharing program)
- Old Town Trolley
- S. Olympic Training Center (Chula Vista)
- Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa
- Desert View Tower (Jacumba)
- Rancho Buena Vista Adobe
- Rancho Guajome Adobe
- Eagle Mine (Julian)
- Chicano Mural Parks
- Cedros Design District (Solana Beach)
- California Wolf Center
- Camel Watching (specific dates)
- Galleta Meadows
- Walk the coastal area of La Jolla (tons of nice and easy trails)
- Take surf lessons
- Move around the beach towns using the Coaster or you can arrive in town using the Pacific Surfliner (Amtrak Train)
- Try to determine which is the best taco in town (good luck with that)
- Jet Boat Ride
- Browse the beautiful shops at Old Town
San Diego Bucket List – Getaways
I think San Diego has enough to keep people busy for a long time but I know there are some overachievers out there.
- Temecula (1 hour)
- San Juan Capistrano (1 hour)
- Borrego Springs (2 hours)
- Palm Springs (2.5 Hours)
- Idyllwild (2 hours)
- Disney Land (2 hours)
- Los Angeles (2 hours)
Places to Visit in Mexico
San Diego is famous for being a border town (and for having the more congested border crossing in the world). It is easy to get to Mexico from the city but take into consideration crossing times (back into the U.S.) and documents needed (passport, insurance).
- Tijuana (30 minutes)
- Rosarito (50 minutes)
- Ensenada (2 hours)
- Valle de Guadalupe (2 hours)
San Diego Bucket List – Resources
For more information about the city, I recommend checking the following resources. They may help you to get discounts or deals for events and restaurants.
- San Diego Reader
- The San Diego Union-Tribune
- Time Out San Diego
- Eater San Diego
- Groupon
- Yelp
- TripAdvisor
- Travelzoo San Diego
- San Diego Tourism Authority
- SanDiego.com
More of San Diego
Make sure to take a look at my other detailed articles about San Diego!
More of Southern California
Los Angeles Ultimate Bucket List
150+ Places to Go in Orange County
200+ Places to Visit in Santa Barbara
Residents, how many of these have you visited? Visitors, which of these would you like to experience? What else should be added to a San Diego bucket list?
If you enjoyed this article, please share it!
Pin “San Diego Bucket List” for later!
Sammie @ The Annoyed Thyroid says
Man, I wish I had had this guide before we went to San Diego. I thought we did a lot but looking at this list it seems we barely scratched the surface! Old Town and USS Midway were highlights and we loved all the rooftop bars. I’m looking forward to a return visit and working my through your list!
Vanessa Brune says
San Diego seems spectacular! So many awesome things I would love to see and do but most of all, I’d spend my time strolling along those beaches and enjoying the nice weather if I ever visited 🙂
Lorelle says
I would never have thought there was so much to see and do here. I remember visiting Legoland as a day trip from Anaheim, but never actually stopped at San Diego! Next time we will definitely have to spend a few days here. Thanks Ruth. 🙂
Katherine says
You just debunked a San Diego myth for me. I just presumed that it was all beachy – but of course desert makes sense and having mountains as well seems like a huge plus. I can’t believe how many things there are to see and do! I’ll have to put San Diego on my list of places to get to soon! #farawayfiles
Jacki says
The coastline and beaches are so beautiful. I’ve only been to San Diego once for a little over 24 hours. Clearly this is so much more to see and do!
Pratik Banerjee says
saving it, if i ever visit
Birgit | Groove Is In The Heart says
Great post! A friend of mine is visiting San Diego right now. It’s her first time, so I’ll share your super guide with her. (And I’m pinning it for myself ?)
Anna says
When I visited California, my bff told me she loved San Diego and the beaches, but it couldn’t fit my program. So, I have to return one day. I think I should allocate a whole month in order to explore the most of California! #wanderfulwednesday
Lydia C. Lee says
Looks so appealing!
Rhonda Albom says
I have been to San Diego several times and love it. Your list is so comprehensive that I would have to spend months there to see it all. Did I say that at one point I wanted to move to San Diego? 🙂
Jillian Michelle says
I’m hoping to visit San Diego soon, so this list is perfect! You listed so many different places that I’d never even heard of! Thanks bunches <3
California Globetrotter says
Okkkkk, now you’ve officially made me homesick! I’ve done soooo much of everything you wrote about but it’s been at least since 2010 the last time I was HOME in SD! You mentioned everything I would have told you to visit, except for Tamarack Beach! I grew up in North County, in Vista / Oceanside! #FeetDoTravel
Esther says
This looks like a great escape. I’d love to take a walk along the shore there, and that food. Oh my!
#TravelPhotoThursday
Sarah says
Fantastic article, we have driven through San Diego a couple of times when we have been in California. But never actually spent any time there. Will have to add it to our itinerary next time we head to California. #feetdotravel
Kathy Marris says
What a fabulous comprehensive guide to what to do and see in San Diego. I have’t visited yet but have heard very good things about it prior to reading your post. I actually know an ex-Aussie that lives here. This would be most useful for first-time visitors.
jill says
I really have enjoyed your city bucket lists! I might have to do one for my area just to see what I’ve done – and what I still need to do. My niece lives in San Diego – but I’ve only been twice since it’s across country for me. I am planning a return trip in March though so hopefully I’ll be able to see some new things on your list. Last time I visited Balboa Park and Del Mar on a long weekend – and my first week there I visited Coronado, Old Town, Little Italy and Pacific Beach. I want to get to Torrey Pines this time! Thanks for sharing!
hilary says
Oh my this is quite a list! I’ve been thinking we haven’t spent enough time in San Diego, and apparently I was right! There are so many fun things to do and thanks to you they’re now listed all in one place! My son and I went to Comic Con a few years ago and loved it… its time to get back! #farawayfiles
Obligatory Traveler says
Wow that is quite the list. Now I feel like we only scratched the surface when we visited San Diego. I absolutely loved Balboa Park when we were there. I think I could have spend a few days just visiting the park. It seems like San Diego would be a great place to live so you could do everything.
Nicola | suitcase and wanderlust says
How I miss the Californian coast, the beaches and the piers. I haven’t made it to San Diego so far because the time was just too short during my last visit. Thanks for sharing all the tips!
Sharon says
Ruth, this is great, detailed guide of my home city! You’ve done a marvelous job on this. I’m so spoiled to live here, I know — always thankful for all the beauty and all there is to do and see here. If you’re ever in town for a visit, I’d love to meet you for coffee!
Greta says
Such a thorough guide, thanks for sharing! I went to San Diego only for 1 day years ago, I’d love to go back and see it all properly!
James says
Thanks for sharing!
San Diego is a place I will hopefully get to visit in the near future.
Brenda says
Its funny to find this post today! I’ve been thinking seriously to visit San Diego soon. Your list is so good and definitely, consider all types of travelers and what they can find to have an amazing experience in the city.
I hope to visit California soon!
Anisa says
I love San Diego, but it has been awhile! You put together a great list. I think my favorite thing is watching the sea lions in La Jolla. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Karen says
So much to do in San Diego! I haven’t been, but can’t wait to visit. 🙂
Camila says
Wow! this is a very complete guide for San Diego 🙂 Never been there, but sure will now that I have this amazing info! Thank you for this incredible collection of tips 😀
shere says
you need more than just a couple of weeks holiday to see it all!! very comprehensive post. We would visit as first Legolang, with kids it’s always a good option.
Yasha says
I visited San Diego on my first ever overseas trip in 1979. I have great memories of the San Diego Zoo and that it was a beautiful city. But I suppose it’s very different now… Maybe one day I will return and try to tick off some of your items.
Nicky says
Such a fantastic and comprehensive guide! I think I’d head straight for those beaches, they look kind of wild! Julian sounds like a Town I could get used to, cinnamon ice cream and apple pie, it sounds delicious! Thanks for giving us so much quality info!
Lindsey says
I’ve been to SD numerous times (considering I went to school in Orange County and lived in LA), but I have definitely not checked off all of these things! Awesome list and will need to remember these the next time I’m back on the West Coast and get down there!
Michelle says
Wow! This is a great list. I’ve been to San Diego but definitely didn’t do all of this. I’ll be saving your post to reference for my next trip. Thanks for sharing!
Odette says
Amazing, such an elaborate list! Will definitely pin this for later!
Ellie says
This is such a comprehensive post, thank you!
krista says
what an awesome list! it is so detailed, makes me want to travel to San Diego just to do everything!!
Roxanne Reid says
So cool to see your photos and learn a bit more about San Diego. I have a very good friend whose brother lives there, but I’ve never visited.
Amanda Thurman says
We love spending weekends in San Diego. Our favorite area is Old Town.
Lisa says
That’s such a great list with very helpful recommendations. Definitely saving this 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard
Zarina says
Oh wow, so much to see and do! I’ve only been to SD for Comic Con but clearly need to rectify this 😉
Maartje says
Went to San Diego two years ago, loved it! Didn’t do everything though haha
Max says
Woah!! This is wicked thorough, and the photos are great! I’ll be hitting up some of those lagoons and parks– I had no idea San Diego had so many of them!
Rohan Cahill-Fleury says
Wow there looks like SO much to do in San Diego! And such a variety of awesome things. This is a great list of ideas, thanks for the inspiration!
Marcelle says
Thank you for sharing your “expertise” about San Diego. It’s an abundant list of possibilities which keep me busy for years if I can find my way to this interesting corner of the world 😀
Julie says
What a great guide!! I have a special place in my heart for San Diego since I was born there. Great memories of old town, balboa park, and the beaches. And a world class zoo!! I have always wanted to kayak the La Jolla caves and my husband is dying to play Torrey Pines!! Oh and I always travel with stretchy pants!! lol. #TheWeeklyPostcard
My Travel Tricks says
I went to San Diego years ago and didn’t even do 10 percent of your recommendations!! I should really book another ticket there, it all looks amazing. Really good blog, I’ll save it for my next trip to the States!!!
Clare (Suitcases and Sandcastles) says
Well if I ever make it to San Diego I know which blog post I’m going to re-read! What a detailed list you’ve created, Ruth. The fact that you’ve visited over 30 times just shows me how great a city this must be. Love the variety of all the things you’ve highlighted here – and I need to try that apple pie! Thanks for sharing on #FarawayFiles
Leigh says
Awesome list! I actually just canceled a trip to San Diego 🙁 I’ve been a few times, but never more than brushed the surface.
Anda says
Excellent guide for San Diego, Ruth. I love this city, but it’s been a while since I’ve been there. I particularly like Balboa Park and Coronado area. I’m hoping to return with my grand children someday and show them the Sea World and Lego Land. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Corey with fifi + hop says
I remember visiting La Jolla when I was a kid and thinking how beautiful it was..would love to take my own family some day. Clearly there’s so much to do. #farawayfiles
Loretta says
OMG what a great resource! Thanks so much for sharing your guide! I’ve never been to San Diego as an adult. It definitely sounds like a place to visit.
Jewels says
This is super useful!! Definitely keeping this list close by me! I would love to visit soon.
Photo Cache says
This post reminds me that I need to revisit this most charming city.
Joanna says
Who knew there were so many things to do and see in San Diego! The foodie list is amazing, I would love to go at every single place and try their specialty. As you can see, I am a big foodie, haha 🙂
Angie (Feetdotravel) says
If there was ever a comprehensive guide on San Diego, this it! An incredible amount of information here and I didn’t know it was so close to Mexico. I was sold on the apple pie and cinnamon ice cream so you can imagine my excitement when I read the plethora of beaches to choose from as well! Thanks for this Ruth, pinned for when I visit #feetdotravel
Expert Traveller says
What a wonderful list! Haven’t been to San Diego yet but we are now very keen to go!
Christie Sultemeier says
Great list!! How come you don’t have Pacific Beach on the neighborhoods list? I love PB! I’m always looking for things to do in SD when I’m randomly in town so I’m going to pin this for next time 🙂
Stephanie (1AdventureTraveler) says
Wow, love your comprehensive San Diego guide. I have been to San Diego numerous times and you have definitely included all the best places. Great job! I pinned for later use to visit places yet to see 🙂 Thanks for sharing! #feetdotravel
Sophie says
Holy smokes! What an awesome, comprehensive list. I’ve been to San Diego (very VERY long time ago) but I didn’t realize there were this many things to do around the area. Definitely going to revisit this list when I visit San Diego in the future! Thanks Ruth!
Gina says
I lived in San Diego for over 10 years and this is a great rundown of all the amazing things you can do there! Also, I miss those Julian pies!
UnaVeronicaVagante says
What a bucket list!
I’ll definitely use it when visiting San Diego – that hopefully will be soon! 😀
Aga says
Such a comprehensive list! You made me really want to go to San Diego! I haven’t managed to get there last time when I was in LA, so maybe it’s the time to return 🙂
budget jan says
San Diego has always been on the top of my list in USA (after NYC where we’ve already been). This post will be invaluable for us when we go. It is so hard to know where to start when you have no local knowledge but this has it all. I particularly like how close to Mexico it is.
Bharat & Supriya says
As a fellow bucket list maker, I found myself nodding in approval as I started reading your post. San Diego sounds like such a fun city and you’ve done a great job of categorizing spots. Can’t wait to visit the city someday to experience some of your recommendations first hand 🙂
Supriya
Danielle says
Love this list, it’s so comprehensive! I’ve never visited San Diego and don’t know much about the area but you’ve definitely opened my eyes! 🙂
Michelle says
I think the only thing I’ve been to on this list is the San Diego Safari Park (which was awesome, btw). Would definitely have loved to spend more time in San Diego, but I just didn’t have enough time on my last trip to California. I think I definitely prefer the weather in Southern California to the weather further north, so if I were to do it again I’d spend more time in San Diego and LA! Will certainly refer to this comprehensive list if I go back! 🙂
Trish says
Oh wow! I loved reading your Los Angeles post and now you’ve tackled San Diego! I’m really drawn to those fabulous beaches and it seems like a great base to visit other attractions.
#farawayfiles
Anna says
Wow what a comprehensive list! I’ve been to San Diego twice in the past month and though I was busy the whole time, I’m glad to see I got to check off a few stuff from this list. Though I happened to notice that Extraordinary Desserts – my friends and my favorite dessert place – isn’t on the list ;). They have seriously the most beautiful desserts so check it out next time you’re there!
Serena says
San Diego looks so diverse! And now I’m suddenly craving tacos…
Barry says
Wow this a huge guide with so much packed into it. There’s not been many that I’ve come across with all this info and things to see. Always wanted to visit San Diego – I hear the surfing is great!
Erin Gustafson | Oregon Girl Around the World says
Great list! San Diego has so much to offer. I’m suddenly craving tacos and beach! Thanks for sharing with #FarawayFiles
Grace Silla says
Can you believe I’ve only been to CA once!!? There is so much to do there that I know I need to plan a return trip. This is a great and extensive guide!
Nancie says
Wow! What a fantastic list, Ruth. I would probably start with the museums and then hit the ocean. The food choices sound great, too. I would be trying the pie from Julians. If a person only had enough time to visit LA or San Diego, which would you recommend? Thanks for co-hosting. #TPThursday
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
So much to love about San Diego! And this is quite a list! We’ve done/seen quite a few of these, but have some good notes now for our next visit. We were a little surprised the U.S. Grant Hotel didn’t make your list – it’s a downtown hotel (near the Gaslamp) that’s on the National Register of Historic Places, and was built by US Grant, Jr, the son of President US Grant, in the early 1900s. Great post, Ruth! Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard and #WeekendWanderlust!
Carmen Baguio says
I’ve been to San Diego once, but it was only once and mainly just stayed on the beach. I didn’t realize how many museums there were. Need to go back!
Shona says
This is definitely the ultimate San Diego bucket list. I’ve pinned for my next visit. Such comprehensive information Ruth and your pics, as usual, are inspiring! 🙂
Lindz says
I’ve never been to San Diego but it’s been on my radar – even more so after your post! Just the food and street art alone make it look so amazing!!
Russian voyages says
Thanks for the hard work; I’ll definitely keep this keep this list in mind when i have a chance to explore San Diego. The nature itself makes me fall in love instantly but all additional details just make me want to visit the place as soon as possible.
Scarlett Begonias says
Dutch apple pie with cinnamon ice cream sounds right up my alley. I hope to visit more of these treasures in San Diego soon, thank you for the awesome lists 🙂
Neha Kulshrestha says
wow!! that’s quiet extensive. Wish i had this when I had visited San Diego some years back. We did the zoo and some beaches, but never thought of so much. Thanks.
Chele says
I am a local San Diegan and even though so many others have complimented your very thorough list I just have to weigh in and tell you job well done! As I kept reading the things I would have added eventually appeared. One thing to sound a wee bit less touristy, although we welcome our tourists with open arms, it’s Gaslamp Quarter, not square. If visiting Balboa Park with kids be sure to check out Rueben H. Fleet Science Center (you mentioned it) and IMAX theater. There’s fun hands-on activities for the little ones to enjoy, and the theater features amazing films about the oceans, land, and space narrated by the likes of Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, and Sting. If traveling by RV or tent camping, Campland on the Bay is perfect for the whole family. Anza Borrego is especially nice in March-April when the desert is in bloom. So glad you discovered delicious fish tacos, something we used to miss terribly when traveling away from home. Back in the ‘70’s Mexico and San Diego were the inky places you could ever find them. Another unique to Southern California Mexican delight, or monstrosity depending on how you view it, is a California burrito. It’s a large flour tortilla filled with carne asada (seasoned grilled then chopped beef) guacamole, pico de gallo (chopped onions, tomatoes and cilantro) and French fries. Local tip: Request extra crispy fries, and add cheese if feeling especially gluttonous. Consider splitting one with a friend. Again, awesome list! Wishing you safe and enjoyable travels wherever life takes you next!
Ruth says
Thanks a lot! Your comment made my day! I am not sure why I wrote Gaslamp Square. I will fix that. As you can see, I am a little bit obsessive when it comes to explore places. I do a lot of research before heading to a place. I have been to San Diego a lot and there are still a lot of places I want to visit. As for camping, I have bad luck when it comes to reservations. I have never been able to find a spot at Campland on the Bay. My go to place is the Kumeyaay Campground because there seems to be availability all the time. Two weeks ago, I found a spot at the San Mateo Campground. It was my first time since I never find can find a spot there or in the bluffs. I like burritos and have had huge ones but I didn’t know some come with French fries. That is something i have to try!