8 Best Things To Do In San Diego, California
When it comes to fun activities in San Diego California, this coastal paradise truly has it all — beaches, world-class attractions, and endless sunshine. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, San Diego’s energy makes every moment feel new. Here’s my personal list of the best things to do in this Southern California gem, featuring local favorites, must-try foods, and views you’ll never forget.
1. Visit the San Diego Zoo – A Wild Start to Your Adventure
Without question, one of the top fun activities in San Diego California is visiting the San Diego Zoo. Nestled in Balboa Park, this world-renowned zoo is home to over 12,000 animals and 650 species. You can spend an entire day exploring its tropical habitats, from playful pandas to lazy koalas.
🎟️ Tickets: Adults $72, Children (3–11) $62.
⏰ Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily.
📍 Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101.
Insider tip: Visit early in the morning when animals are most active. The Skyfari aerial tram gives you an incredible bird’s-eye view of the park and surrounding city.
2. Stroll Through Seaport Village
Seaport Village is one of the most charming waterfront spots in San Diego. You’ll find boutique shops, street performers, and cafes overlooking the harbor. Grab a coffee at Spill the Beans and watch sailboats glide across the bay — it’s pure relaxation.
If you love photography, this is where you’ll capture postcard-worthy shots of the skyline and the iconic USS Midway. And yes, watching the sunset from here feels like a movie moment.
3. Spend the Day at Belmont Park
Ready for thrills? Head to Belmont Park in Mission Beach. This classic beachfront amusement park is home to the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, built in 1925. Between the rides, mini golf, and oceanfront eateries, it’s one of the best fun activities in San Diego California for families and friends.
🎟️ Entry is free, but rides and games cost around $5–10 each.
🌊 Don’t miss Belmonty’s Burgers or Dole Whip stands for the perfect beach snack.
4. Watch the Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
For one of the most romantic experiences in San Diego, head to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. This coastal stretch offers breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and dramatic golden-hour lighting. It’s a local favorite for proposals, picnics, or simply soaking in California’s beauty.
If you’re visiting in late summer, you might even spot migrating whales in the distance — a sight you’ll never forget.
5. Discover the Sunny Jim Cave Store
Hidden beneath La Jolla’s coastline lies the quirky Sunny Jim Cave Store. For $10, you can descend a tunnel leading to a sea cave carved by waves over centuries. It’s one of the most unique fun activities in San Diego California — part adventure, part history.
Afterward, walk around La Jolla Cove to see sea lions lounging on the rocks or have lunch at George’s at the Cove, one of the city’s most scenic ocean-view restaurants.
6. Explore Balboa Park
Balboa Park isn’t just home to the zoo — it’s a cultural and artistic paradise. With over 17 museums, lush gardens, and Spanish-Renaissance architecture, this is a dream for art and history lovers. You can easily spend a full day here wandering the botanical gardens or visiting the San Diego Museum of Art.
🎟️ Entry: Free for most gardens, museum tickets range $15–25.
💡 Tip: Visit on Tuesdays for free admission to select museums.
Best Cafes Nearby
- Panama 66 – Craft beer and sandwiches with outdoor art views.
- The Prado – Elegant dining surrounded by historic architecture.
7. Enjoy Live Music & Beachside Vibes
If you love nightlife, check out Music Box in Little Italy or live bands at Beach House at Belmont Park. From reggae to indie rock, the city’s music scene is vibrant and welcoming.
During October, the Beachside Fall Fest takes over Mission Beach with art, food trucks, and live performances — perfect for soaking up the fall sunshine.
8. Eat Authentic Mexican Food
San Diego’s proximity to Mexico means unbeatable tacos and burritos. Don’t miss Las Cuatro Milpas for handmade tortillas or Oscar’s Mexican Seafood for the city’s best fish tacos. Foodies will agree: exploring local Mexican cuisine is one of the tastiest fun activities in San Diego California.
💵 Expect to spend around $10–20 per meal.