If you’re planning a trip packed with excitement and variety, look no further than San Diego. From high-adrenaline thrills to laid-back beach fun, the city offers a wide range of activities for every type of traveler. Here’s your ultimate list of fun activities in San Diego, California—complete with official booking links and Google Maps locations.
Why go: This classic amusement park offers the Giant Dipper roller coaster, bumper cars, and beachfront dining. You can also enjoy arcade games and a zip line. Entry is free, but ride passes vary from $3 to $30.Iconic beachfront park with a historic wooden roller coaster, arcade games, zip lines, and mini golf.
Why go: A combination of a theme park and marine life experience. Enjoy thrilling roller coasters, aquatic shows, and up-close animal encounters. Tickets start around $65 and include access to all rides and exhibits.Combines thrilling rides with animal shows and marine exhibits.
Why go: Year-round ice skating inside a luxury shopping center. Skating sessions start at $15, including rental, and it’s a great indoor escape for families and couples alike.Located in the upscale Westfield UTC mall, offering year-round public skating and lessons.
Why go: A community favorite with frequent public skating, youth hockey leagues, and figure skating classes. Entry fees range from $10–$18 depending on session and rental needs.Popular with locals, offers public skating, hockey, and lessons.
Why go: A foodie’s paradise with craft vendors, local beer, gourmet desserts, and live music. Entry is free; food and drink prices vary by vendor.Located in Point Loma’s Liberty Station, featuring local vendors, food stalls, and live music.
Why go: A blend of history and culture with old-style markets, handmade goods, and performances. Free to visit, and great for learning about California’s early days.Outdoor market and historic attractions; ideal for souvenirs and traditional Mexican snacks.
Why go: Tandem skydiving from 13,000 feet with ocean views is a must for adrenaline seekers. Prices start around $229 and include basic video packages and equipment.Tandem jumps from 13,000 feet, with views of the Pacific Ocean and Mexican border.
Why go: Offers guided dives and full scuba certification courses with rental gear. Prices for dives start around $90, and they offer beginner-friendly experiences.Offers scuba diving certification, gear rentals, and guided dive tours.
Why go: Trendy entertainment venue with bowling, karaoke, and dining. Bowling lanes rent by the hour at about $14/person; food and drinks sold separately.Combines bowling, karaoke, and a full-service bar and kitchen in the East Village.
Why go: Classic bowling alley perfect for families or friends. Prices range from $6–$10 per game, with discounts for kids and weekday specials.Family-friendly bowling alley with leagues and nightly specials.
Why go: Water slides, lazy river, wave pool, and Sesame Street-themed attractions. Tickets start around $50 per person, often with online discounts.Water rides, slides, lazy rivers, and character-themed experiences.
Why go: Guided harbor tours using your own speedboat. $130–$150 per boat for a two-hour tour; includes training and safety gear.Self-drive mini speedboats in a guided harbor tour.
Why go: Offers boats, jet skis, kayaks, and sailboats across multiple marinas. Jet ski rentals start at $85/hour; reservations recommended.Rent jet skis, sailboats, and powerboats at multiple locations.
Why go: Surf lessons available daily for all ages. Private sessions cost around $109 and include board and wetsuit.Surf lessons at Pacific Beach for all skill levels.
Why go: Experience rugged terrain on guided ATV tours. Half-day packages start around $199 per person with gear and guide included.Guided off-road and ATV desert tours just outside San Diego.
Why go: Paddle through sea caves and spot marine life on a 90-minute guided tour. Tours cost about $50–$65 and include equipment.Explore caves and sea lions with guided kayak tours.
Why go: Offers Shakespearean plays and modern dramas in an intimate park setting. Ticket prices range from $30 to $90 depending on the show.Watch Broadway-quality productions in Balboa Park.
Why go: Hosts national tours of Broadway hits and classical music. Ticket prices vary, usually $40–$150 based on seating.Major concerts, ballets, and touring productions.
Why go: Outdoor yoga at sunset with ocean views. Drop-in classes are about $20; mats available for rent on site.Outdoor yoga classes overlooking the Pacific.
Why go: Offers year-round whale watching with guaranteed sightings or your next trip is free. Tours start at $48 for adults and $30 for kids.
Why go: Premium experience with indoor seating, bar service, and expert narration. Whale watching cruises from $60 for adults.
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