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Things to do in San Diego CA
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items San Diego’s got it all — beach days, epic hikes, good vibes, and even better food. Start with ocean views at La Jolla, grab tacos downtown, catch sunset at Sunset Cliffs, then end the night with ice cream or donuts. It’s the perfect mix of chill, fun...
Map
Sections
4
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Favorite Dessert Spots
Local Favorites - Entertainment & Quick Bites
Outdoor Activities
Love going for walks? Visit Balboa Park! There's so many places to see within this park. If you're visiting during Christmas, I recommend going to December Nights.
Balboa Park
Looking for a hidden gem? This one is tucked in Spruce St. The bridge is a trip and will have you feeling off balance. It's located in a residential area, please be mindful of your surroundings and have fun!
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
Have a day or two to spare? Visit another hidden gem thats about an hour east of San Diego. One day here and trust me, you'll feel so relaxed you won't want to leave. The hot springs are so relaxing.
Tip: Take a dip in the hot springs before bed. Y...
Jacumba Hot Springs
Never a bad time here. Take a picture at the most iconic cliffs, walk around. Sunset is most beautiful.
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park | Ocean Beach San Diego ...
Take a hike, a romantic walk on the beach, or enjoy a family day with your beach towels and sandcastle buckets. Arrive early for the best parking.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve - California State Parks
Coronado Beach is very popular, a big tourist location. In the heart of Coronado Beach is Hotel Del Coronado. A beautiful hotel that is rich in history.
Coronado Beach
Love to hike? Check out the five peaks challenge. Hike the five highest peaks in San Diego - North Fortuna is one of them. I've hiked all five, it's not easy. I hiked on different days but it's such an accomplishment. Happy trekking!
North Fortuna via Rolling Hills, California
Love to hike? Try South Fortuna! One of the five highest peaks in San Diego. Try is as a part of the five peaks challenge! Happy trekking!
South Fortuna Mountain Trail, California
Beautiful views once you reach the top. Cowles Mountain is one of the five highest peaks in San Diego. Also part of the five peaks challenge. Happy hiking!
Cowles Mountain Trail, California - San Diego
So I learned that to get to Pyles Peak you actually gotta hike up Cowles Mountain. Such a long hike but worth it! I urge you to start early ! Happy hiking!
Pyles Peak Trail, California
The trailhead is actually located near a campsite. The last of the five peaks, this one is, in my opinion, the easiest. Have fun and happy trekking!
Kwaay Paay Peak Trail, California
Every local knows this place. Take a walk and enjoy the nice breeze San Diego has to offer!
Seaport Village
There's two routes you can take. Go right to view the beautiful canyon. Take some sort of mosquito repellent, you'll need it at some point. It was a short hike/walk. There's a portion towards the end where you are climbing up a steep ladder. Stay saf...
Annie's Canyon Trail
Restaurants
Looking for something upscale? Indulge in upscale steakhouse fare with vintage-inspired décor and rooftop dining.
Born and Raised
Not sure what you're craving? Head to the Liberty Public Market! It's located in Liberty Station, a crowd favorite for many reasons.
Liberty Public Market
In my opinion, one of the best authentic Mexican restaurants in San Diego. Has five stars for a reason, trust me.
Casa Guadalajara
For the vegans and vegetarians, this one is for you. One of my favorite vegan eats in San Diego, you will not be dissappointed. My favorite dishes are the Pop Corn Cauliflower, Tokyo Fries, Grains Chow Mein and Stir Fried Eggplant. YUM! Enjoy!
Grains
Also for my vegans and vegetarians, this restaurant is popular for a reason. Enjoy my favorite dishes - Start with Chicken Satay. For your main meal I recommend: Tangerine, Pad Thai (Tip: order with tempura chicken), Pineapple Fried Rice (with tempur...
Plumeria Vegetarian Restaurant
On the left you have Mona Lisa's Italian market filled with fresh ingredients. They sell fresh pizza dough, pizza sauce, meats, cheese. They have their deli for fresh sandwiches. On the right of the building is the restaurant. Best Italian cuisine in...
Mona Lisa Italian Foods
You won't find a San Diegan who doesn't know about Phil's. If you're a fan of bbq, look no further. Enjoy!
Phil's BBQ
Looking for something quick? Pop Pie Co. sells ready to go pies, all they do is heat them up for you. They also offer a vegetarian pie - I recommend the Roastes Veggies and Yellow Curry.
Pop Pie Co
I am soo picky when it comes to ramen. I love making my own at home and ruined take out for myself. BUT Nishiki ramen is one of the best in my opinion. The first picture is what we ordered.
Nishiki Ramen
Favorite Dessert Spots
I've been hooked for years now. I have so many favorite ice cream spots in San Diego, this one is top 5. I love that their menu changes weekly. My favorite flavors are mango sticky rice and chocolate! Try their homemade cones as well! You will not be...
Stella Jean's
Oof amazing ice cream here too! My favorite flavor is Salted Malted Cookie Dough. Soo hard to choose a flavor though! I'm a sucker for sweets.
Salt & Straw
You'll feel like you're in Italy with authentic gelato. It's amore at first bite.
Pappalecco
Voted one of the best ice cream spots for a reason. There's always a line here so arrive early!
An's Dry Cleaning
Never a bad dessert here. Their cakes are so rich and flavorful. A must if you are visiting San Diego.
Extraordinary Desserts
Home of the fresh fruit strudel and a local favorite. Never a morning where there isn't a line. Locals know the best time to go is the morning. They sell out of their most popular desserts quickly!
Hans & Harry's Bakery
Fresh cookies and homemade ice cream? Heavenly combination. Here you choose your ice cream cookie sandwich. Enjoy!
The Baked Bear
I'm not a donut person, but I was turned into one after visiting the Donut Bar. They serve GIANT donuts and the most unique flavors. They also serve local coffee from Cafe Motto!
Donut Bar & Bakery
Local Favorites - Entertainment & Quick Bites
From museums, food and entertainment, Liberty Station has it all. Liberty Station is an important part of San Diego history as it used to be a naval base.
Liberty Station
Looking for something historical, rich in culture? Head to Old Town for some authentic Mexician cuisine. Our favorite spot is listed in my restaurants section. If you're visiting during November, stop by Old Town to see the most beautiful celebration...
Old Town San Diego
It's astonishing to think that this was once an active aircraft carrier filled with sailors. It's now an interactive museum and a place for various events including prom and navy retirement ceremonies.
USS Midway Museum
Highly recommend for a night out! Punch Bowl has it all. Want to bowl? They got a bowling alley. Feeling daring? They have darts. A small arcade, karaoke. Have fun!
Punch Bowl Social
Stop by Little Italy for an afternoon. Can't go wrong with Italian food, fresh ice cream, and farmers markets!
Little Italy San Diego
If nightlife is more your scene try the Gaslamp Quarter. Filled with lots of bars, roof top clubs, many places to eat.
Gaslamp Quarter
Catch a game at Petco Park! Don't sleep on the great food and drinks.
Petco Park
Novo has become THE spot for locals to hang out, especially on the weekends. Try my favorite - yucca fries!
Novo Brazil Brewing
Ok this might be random to see a grocery store. If you're looking for a quick bite to eat, head to Sprouts and pick up some sushi. Amazing! That's all I gotta say.
Sprouts Farmers Market