Best and Fun Things to Do in San Diego, CA

Things to Do in San Diego

Looking for the best things to do in San Diego, California?? Here’s the list with all the travel information that you need to plan a family tour.

Things to Do in San Diego

1. Things to Do in San Diego: USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is a naval aircraft carrier museum located at the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego.

Things to Do in San Diego USS Midway Museum
USS Midway Museum

It is comprised of the aircraft carrier Midway and an extensive collection of other military aircraft. Many of these aircraft were built in Southern California.

Visit this historic maritime site to learn about the history of military aviation and how these planes came to be used in combat.

For example, the USS Midway is one of the most impressive warships of all time.

When visiting the USS Midway Museum, you can take an audio tour of the carrier. You can listen to details about over 60 locations and spend at least three hours at the museum.

The museum has multiple levels, so be sure to plan for a full day to explore. The USS Midway Museum also features yellow-capped docents who answer questions and provide background information about the ship.

Depending on your interests, you can choose to take the audio tour or opt to go on a self-guided tour.

During the summer, the USS Midway Museum offers various educational programs, including virtual field trips and professional development for educators.

It also has a variety of activities that are open to the public, including movie nights on the flight deck. The Fourth of July is a great time to visit the USS Midway. You can also take your children to enjoy the show on the decks of the historic aircraft carrier. A USS Midway museum trip is an unforgettable experience.

2. Things to Do in San Diego: La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a beautiful, small cove in the city of San Diego, California. It is surrounded by cliffs on three sides and is part of a marine reserve.

Things to Do in San Diego La Jolla Cove
La Jolla Cove

It is popular with scuba divers, swimmers, and snorkelers. You can also take a boat trip to this beautiful cove for some of the best scuba diving in the world. This is one of the most famous beaches in the country, and it’s easily worth a visit.

The beaches in La Jolla are popular for many reasons. The beach is the perfect place to relax after a busy day. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the beach, watch the harbor seals, or even go kayaking.

The beach is also great for kids, and there are many activities for all levels. There are several parks and organizations around the area, including a public boat launch. You can explore the kelp forest that surrounds La Jolla Cove.

There is plenty to see and do in La Jolla, but the beaches are the main draw. The town is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, which contains 5,000 modern and contemporary art pieces.

3. Things to Do in San Diego: San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is located on 100 acres of Balboa Park in San Diego, California. It houses over 12,000 animals and 650 species.

Things to Do in San Diego San Diego Zoo
San Diego Zoo

It is owned by the city and is operated by a nonprofit organization. The zoo is a popular place to visit for visitors of all ages. During your visit, you can learn about and interact with many of the animals.

The San Diego Zoo is home to polar bears, which are capable of sniffing out seals on the ice up to 20 miles away. These animals do not hibernate, so you can get close to them by viewing them in the wild.

Another animal you can see at the zoo is the okapi, a hybrid of a giraffe and zebra. These beautiful and unusual creatures are often only seen in zoos, so you’re sure to have a good time in this animal kingdom.

If you love animals from the rain forests, you can explore the animal trails and learn more about these magnificent animals. There are also tigers, monkeys, and flamingos.

In addition to the wildlife, the park also houses a playground and petting zoo. Kids will enjoy visiting the Discovery Outpost and learning about the creatures of the desert. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon.

4. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

When visiting San Diego, it is essential to take the time to see the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

This park is one of the most beautiful in the city and features historic buildings from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It was established in 1968 and preserves the city’s history, and is a must-see for history lovers.

Old Town San Diego is known for its historical buildings and architecture, and this park showcases the history of this area. You can find the Whaley House in this area, as well as many other interesting buildings from the early 1900s.

It is also a great place to visit the Old Town Mexican Cafe Coyote, which has traditional and authentic Mexican flavors.

The park is open from November to March.

The Whaley House, an impressive Greek Revival house, was built in 1857. At various times, it served as a courthouse, general store, residence, and theater. It was built on a former public hanging site and graveyard.

Today, it is home to the oldest restaurant in the state and is a must-see for any history buff. At its heart is a bustling market.

5. iFLY San Diego

The first iFLY location opened in 1998, and since then, over 10 million people have had the opportunity to fly in these state-of-the-art wind tunnels.

iFLY San Diego
iFLY San Diego

The iFLY facilities are fun for all ages, and you don’t need any previous experience to enjoy a flight. You can also take part in other activities designed to make the entire family happy, such as parasailing or hang gliding. It’s a good idea to reserve your spot ahead of time, as the rides fill up quickly.

iFLY San Diego is one of the premier indoor skydiving centers in the world. The state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel is designed to give customers a realistic experience of free fall.

Each customer receives a flight certificate to commemorate the event. Those who choose to participate in body-flight competitions are required to complete a training course and must have at least a high school diploma.

Guests can learn more about the history of skydiving at iFLY San Diego. The experience is best when the person who has never been in a flight chamber has never tried it before. The instructors will guide you through the experience, giving you tips on how to spin and free-float.

It’s also an exciting way to spend a romantic afternoon with your partner.

6. Balboa Park

If you are planning to visit San Diego, California, you should not miss visiting Balboa Park.

Balboa Park
Balboa Park

It is a 1,200-acre historic urban cultural park. It features open space areas, water fountains, natural vegetation zones, green belts, walking paths, and a zoo.

The San Diego Zoo is located in the Park, which is open to the public. It is one of the largest urban parks in the world and is a popular destination for families, couples, and individuals.

When you visit Balboa Park, you will be able to experience the diverse history of the park. The oldest parts are the oldest buildings, and many are well preserved and still in good condition.

You can spend an afternoon exploring the museum. You can enjoy the Timken Museum of Art, which is free of charge, and houses paintings by Rembrandt and John Singleton Copley.

Also, make sure to visit the Botanical Building, where you will find many orchids and ferns. And don’t forget to check out the turtle in the lily pond.

Another highlight of the park is the Spanish Village Art Center, which dates back to the 1935 California Pacific International Exposition. It was used for temporary army barracks during the war, so it’s worth a visit.

If you’re a fan of rare gems and minerals, the San Diego Mineral and Gem Society will make sure you leave the museum with some unusual gems and minerals.

7. Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Located on the Point Loma peninsula at the mouth of San Diego Bay, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a historical site.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse
Old Point Loma Lighthouse

Though it is not currently operational, the lighthouse is open to the public as a museum. This lighthouse was first built in 1868 and is now the oldest continually operating lighthouse in the country.

Today, visitors can visit the Point Loma Lighthouse and learn more about the local maritime history.

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse has been serving as a beacon for ships since then. The lighthouse stands on a 422-foot cliff that is covered by fog.

The fog prevented the shipkeepers from displaying the light, so they shot into the fog to warn the vessels away from the bay. In 1891, the lighthouse was closed and a new one was built at a lower elevation.

Today, the Old and New Point Loma Lighthouses are both preserved in the National Monument, making them one of the few in California where you can see both.

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a historic landmark that was built on the point near the sea in 1855. Despite the lighthouse’s history, it is still a landmark and a must-see destination for any San Diego visitor.

8. Children’s Pool 

Kids love a small sandy beach. Visit Children’s Pool in San Diego, California. You’ll find it off Jenner Street near 850 Coast Boulevard.

Children’s Pool La Jolla
Children’s Pool La Jolla

The area is a great place to take your family. There are many activities and events at the children’s pool.

There is a lifeguard station above the Children’s Pool that tells you water temperatures and tides. There are restrooms and showers on-site, and a sea wall, which you can walk on when the tide is low.

This concrete seawall was built by Ellen Browning Scripps, a local philanthropist in 1931. So, children can play and swim safely here.

Seals have a home at Children’s Pool. If you visit from December to May, you may see baby seals from distance.

Sit on a bench or lean on a wall above the pool to watch the wildlife. The noise of the ocean and birds fluttering above the seals are a soothing backdrop.

9. Things to Do in San Diego: Belmont Park 

A historic amusement park located in Mission Bay, Belmont Park is a popular destination for a family day out in San Diego.

Things to Do in San Diego Belmont Park 
Belmont Park

Constructed in 1925 by sugar magnate John D. Spreckels, Belmont Park opened as Mission Beach Amusement Center on July 4, 1925.

It was a popular destination for the San Diegans in the early 20th century. Today, the park still provides fun and excitement for children of all ages.

This park is also an ideal place for a birthday party. Kids will love celebrating their special day at the park, and parents will appreciate the unique atmosphere and the wide variety of fun activities.

If you’re looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion, Belmont Park offers many options for parties of all sizes. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, or just want a nice evening with friends and family, you’ll be sure to find something at this beach-themed theme park.

There’s also a huge selection of restaurants and entertainment in Belmont Park. Kids can ride roller coasters, play in the sand and eat at dynamic oceanfront restaurants.

If you’re looking for a relaxing day, you can spend a day enjoying the beachfront boardwalk and the 69-beer brewery. Regardless of what you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone. There’s a special place for you to relax, and you’ll be glad you did.

10. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

With views of the Pacific Ocean and the occasional cliff diver, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a popular destination in the Santa Barbara area.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park San Diego
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Take a walk along the cliffs and take in the view. After a day of exploring the coast, stop by Sunset cliffs for lunch and enjoy the beauty.

The view of the park is breathtaking, and it’s not a tourist attraction, so don’t expect the scenery to be perfect. You’ll find plenty of trails and unique vantage points.

Avoid the popular spots and look for a secluded spot to view the sunset. Several gaps in the rocks provide perfect U-shaped seats and scenic outlooks. Whether you’re alone, with friends, or on a date, there are a number of locations to watch the sunset.

The 68-acre Sunset Cliffs Natural Park borders Point Loma and features panoramic ocean views. It includes an 18-acre linear park section that runs between Adair and Ladera streets.

The 50-acre hillside section is a multiple species conservation area and connects with the 640-acre Point Loma Ecological Reserve.

There are numerous opportunities to view wildlife and geological wonders at the park, and you might even spot a California gray whale migrating from the Bering Sea to Baja California.

11. Cedros Avenue Design District

The Solana Beach area is home to 85 shops, restaurants, and boutiques. The area has world-class architecture and is a great place to shop.

Cedros Avenue Design District
Cedros Avenue Design District

There are also several restaurants, a farmers’ market, and spas. The neighborhood is relatively quiet, so it’s easy to walk around and enjoy the local culture.

You can pick up a tasty breakfast at Claire’s on Cedros, a casual spot for coffee, pancakes, and other comfort food.

If you’re looking for a shopping destination in Solana Beach, head to the Cedros Avenue Design District. This area of Solana Beach is home to many renowned interior design and architecture firms.

It’s the perfect place to find everything you need, from breakfast to late-night concerts. You’ll find trendy boutiques, cafes, and art galleries along the way. The Coaster train station is just a block away.

The Cedros Avenue Design District features dozens of shops with striking modern architecture. There’s a 21-and-over music club called Belly-Up Tavern, and parking is very limited.

The closest beaches are two blocks west. Despite the lack of parking, the area has many unique shops and galleries to explore.

12. Things to Do in San Diego: Fashion Valley 

If you’re a shopper in San Diego, you may have heard of Fashion Valley. This upscale open-air shopping mall is in Mission Valley, with 1,720,533 square feet of leasable floor space.

Things to Do in San Diego Fashion Valley 
Fashion Valley

It’s one of the largest malls in California. The mall is owned and managed by Simon Property Group. You can shop here for designer labels, high-end goods, and more.

Whether you’re looking for a new pair of shoes, a new blazer, or a designer handbag, there’s a retail store in Fashion Valley for you.

The mall is a great place to pick up a few things. The AMC Fashion Valley movie theater, with 18 screens, is a popular place to see a movie. The theater is a safe and clean place to watch a movie.

The mall has five department stores. You can find a wide variety of designer brands, including Chanel, Prada, and Saint Laurent.

The AMC movie theater is an impressive one, with premium seating and midnight showings. In addition to designer stores, you’ll find restaurants and coffee shops. You can even visit a live theater and eat a meal.

The Fashion Valley Mall is the perfect place to get a burger or a beer too.

13. Spanish Village Art Center

The Spanish Village Art Center is an arts center located in Balboa Park, San Diego. It was once the studio of Anni von Westrum Baldaugh, a pioneer in the San Diego art scene.

Spanish Village Art Center
Spanish Village Art Center

The center is now home to such tenants as the San Francisco Mineral and Gem Society, the Southern California Association of Camera Clubs, and the San Diego Museum of Art. Here, you’ll be able to view works by local and international artists.

One of my favorite exhibits is the Southwestern Artists’ Association Gallery. The grand entrance and marquee attract visitors to this exhibit of fine art.

The works of art on display are affordable and make great gifts. The open-air patio is the perfect place for weddings and parties.

The atmosphere in the gallery is warm and inviting. It’s a popular venue for events and is ideal for art lovers of all ages. The center hosts several special events throughout the year.

The Spanish Village Art Center features over 37 individual studios staffed by local artists. You’ll be able to see original artwork at each studio, and you can even make a wish at the well.

The center is a family-friendly destination that offers seasonal activities. In addition to the galleries, there are also seasonal art exhibits, which showcase a diverse collection of artwork.

14. San Diego Mormon Temple

The San Diego California Temple or San Diego Mormon Temple is the 47th and 45th operating temple in the United States.

San Diego Mormon Temple
San Diego Mormon Temple

It is located near the La Jolla neighborhood in San Diego, California. This structure is made of two large spires and four smaller spires at the base of each main spire. The spires rise nearly eighty feet into the air, and the curved roof has three levels of columns.

Each pillar is adorned with a different design and represents a different aspect of the San Francisco Mission.

San Diego Mormon Temple was dedicated on April 25, 1989, making it the 24th largest temple in the world. It is seventy-two thousand square feet in size and dwarfs more than 200 temples worldwide.

The building covers 7.2 acres of land, and its twin towers are topped by four smaller spires. Each tower is adorned with a statue of the angel Moroni.

While it is possible to enter the San Francisco Temple, non-Mormons are not allowed to enter the temple without a recommendation from the state level.

Located just south of the downtown district, the temple is a landmark and a historic landmark. It features double towers and a colorful atrium. Its two-story Celestial Room is a dazzling display of art glass and suspended lights.

The ceiling is made of frosted glass and is surrounded by a grand staircase that leads to an upper-level balcony. The temple is located in the neighborhood of La Jolla, about 10 miles south of the San Diego Mormon Battalion.

15. San Diego Air and Space Museum

The San Diego Air and Space Museum is a museum of space exploration and aviation, located in Balboa Park.

San Diego Air and Space Museum
San Diego Air and Space Museum

The museum is housed in the former Ford Building, which is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Founded in 1916, the museum is dedicated to the development of aircraft and the space program. It is also home to a collection of rare objects, including space-related artifacts.

Visitors will be amazed by the full-scale replicas of iconic aircraft and early prototypes, as well as cutting-edge rockets, satellites, and command modules.

This is the ideal place for families to learn about the history of flight and explore the wonders of space exploration. The museum is free and open to the public. The Museum is a great place to take kids ages six and up.

The San Diego Air and Space Museum has limited exhibition space, but it uses it very well. It has an excellent online presence.

While the photo archives are not the highest resolution, they’re a great way to explore the museum’s history. The museum’s video archive is particularly impressive, though they’re published at a low resolution.

16. SeaWorld in San Diego

SeaWorld in San Diego is an animal theme park and oceanarium located in Mission Bay Park in San Diego, California. It is an outside aquarium and marine mammal park that is owned by SeaWorld parks and entertainment.

SeaWorld in San Diego
SeaWorld in San Diego

It offers a wide variety of rides and shows for the whole family. This is a must-see attraction in San Diego, if only for the animals. It is recommended for visitors of all ages and features more than 300 species of marine life.

To make the most of your day at SeaWorld in San Diego, plan your trip during the shoulder seasons. Summer is the busiest time, and crowds tend to be higher.

Spring and fall are less crowded and the weather is more comfortable. This will allow you to make the most of your time at the park. There are plenty of things to do during each season, including the dazzling dolphin show, which is open daily.

In the Wild Arctic section, you can see beluga whales and other cool-water animals. Harbor seals include B.B. (F), Basa (M), and Kulu (F). Walruses are also featured, including Chouchou, a female. In the Sea Lion & Otter Amphitheater, you can touch California sea lions. The experience is also great for children and adults of all ages.

17. Black’s Beach 

Secluded and peaceful, Blacks Beach is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and get in touch with nature.

Black’s Beach San Diego
Black’s Beach

Located under the towering Torrey Pines in La Jolla, San Diego, Black’s Beach is a great place for solitude. While the entire area is officially part of Torrey Pines State Park, it remains one of the most popular sports in the city.

There are two parts to Black’s Beach. The northern section is owned by the state park, while the southern portion is owned by the city.

The southern portion is restricted to public use, so make sure you check local regulations before heading down to the beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a hiking trail that winds its way down eroded hillsides.

You’ll have a great time exploring the different areas of Blacks, and you’ll have an unforgettable experience.

Black’s Beach is the best place to surf in San Diego. Surfers can catch waves year-round, but the optimum time to go surfing is in the winter. Winds from the east will bring consistent swells to the area, but if you’re lucky enough, the swells will be from the ground.

It’s a great spot for beginner and intermediate surfers alike but be warned that the beach is crowded and can have some rips.

18. Ocean Beach 

If you’re looking for a place to get away from the rat race, Ocean Beach is a vibrant neighborhood. This classic SoCal beach town is home to many artisan boutiques, antique shops, and surf and beachwear shops.

Ocean Beach San Diego
Ocean Beach

It’s also home to brewpubs, taquerias, and a thriving farmers market. You’re sure to find something to suit your fancy here.

If you’re looking for a spot to relax and recharge after a long day at work, Ocean Beach is the perfect place to visit.

Visitors can also spend their evenings enjoying live music at local music venues and bars. The beaches are the perfect way to spend a day, and an evening at Ocean Bay is not far away.

19. La Jolla Playhouse

The La Jolla Playhouse is a premier performance venue in San Diego, California. Founded in 1947, the theater has won several awards and is a destination for theatre lovers and locals alike.

La Jolla Playhouse
La Jolla Playhouse

The eclectic productions featured at the La Jolla Playhouse range from Tony-winning dramas to imaginative programs for young audiences.

It is known for its unique stage design and artistic leadership, and the productions are always a hit.

The La Jolla Playhouse was a Tony Award-winning professional non-profit theatre in San Diego, California.

It offers a wide variety of programs, including student matinees and summer theater camps. They also offer a wide range of educational workshops.

Aside from the traditional theatrical experience, La Jolla Playhouse offers a virtual experience. The immersive, interactive video and live interaction allow students to explore the space and meet staff and artists.

The simulation allows them to discover what goes on behind the scenes in a production and what kinds of fun backstage jobs are involved. The experience is ideal for students who love theater and want to make a career out of it.

If you are looking to take your passion for theater to the next level, the La Jolla Playhouse is a great place to start.

20. Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

You can also get to Sunny Jims Sea Cave via a tunnel that was allegedly dug in 1902 for bootlegging.

Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

The tunnel runs from the main road to the cave and is open for public viewing. You can also purchase souvenirs from the cave shop. The tunnel is a must-visit, especially for those who love nature and wildlife.

The cave is located on the oceanfront Coast Blvd, just steps from the famous La Jolla Cove. The stairs to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave are 144 steps, so be sure to take a rest at the halfway point before continuing.

The cave is monitored by cameras to ensure the safety of guests. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs and beach essentials at the cave store. The store also rents snorkel gear. The Cave Store is located just steps away from the cove, making it easy to get to the sea cave.

Access to the cave is relatively easy, as the entrance is right outside the cave. You can park in the nearby all-day lots or on Prospect Street.

A walkway will take you to the entrance of Sunny Jim’s Sea Chamber. There is a $5 entrance fee for adults, and tours can take up to 20 minutes. You will have the entire tunnel to yourself, so you can enjoy your time here.

The only downside to getting lost in the cavern is that it is extremely difficult to see the inside of the cavern.

21. Mormon Battalion Historic Site

The Mormon Battalion Historic Site is located in Old Town, San Diego, California. It was built to commemorate the soldiers of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who served in the Mexican–American War.

Mormon Battalion Historic Site
Mormon Battalion Historic Site

It is well worth a visit if you are in the area. It is free to visit and contains a number of interesting historical exhibits. The missionary-style building is decorated with photographs and artifacts from the war.

The museum has state-of-the-art exhibits and tour guides dressed in period costumes to take you back in time. The interpretive panels are also interactive, letting you interact with the photographs and digital technology on display.

You’ll learn more about the lives of the men of the Battalion, which numbered around 500 men. The building is set up like a real stake house, with logs and tents set up in the courtyard to listen to stories told by the members.

This site is a great place to get a history lesson on the Mormon Battalion. Throughout the exhibits, you’ll learn about the men who served during the Mexican-American War and the accomplishments that they made on their journey.

The museum is located in Old Town San Diego, so you can easily make a day of it while you’re in the area. You can even watch a movie about the experience.

22. Embarcadero in San Diego

The Embarcadero is a beautiful waterfront neighborhood in San Diego that’s also known as the Cruise Ship Hub.

Embarcadero in San Diego
Embarcadero in San Diego

The area is a great place to find fresh seafood or pick up souvenirs from the Seaport Village. Nearby is the headquarters, an old police command post that’s now a chic spot for dining and shopping. Y

ou can also visit the USS Midway Museum, a former naval aircraft carrier. There are also lots of places to relax on the waterfront, and both the Marina Park and Waterfront Park offer ocean views.

The Embarcadero is also home to several restaurants that serve local seafood. The Star of India is located in the southern section of the Embarcadero.

The Edgewater Grill and Marion’s Fish Market are in the Seaport Village. Buster’s Beach House is on the northern end of the Embarcadero, and the San Diego Pier Cafe is located on the pier. Both places feature restrooms and a descaling station for catching fresh fish.

Whether you’re looking for a great spot to take in the sun, a picnic, or a concert, you’ll find it here. The Embarcadero Marina Park has two distinct areas: south and north.

The south part has an outdoor theater where the San Diego Symphony performs.

The northern portion is more open to joggers and families. If you’re lucky enough to catch the show, try to visit the park early or stay until sunset.

23. Things to Do in San Diego: San Diego Natural History Museum

The San Diego Natural History Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Southern California.

San Diego Natural History Museum
San Diego Natural History Museum

This museum is located in Balboa Park in San Diego. It was founded in 1874 as the Society for the Study of Nature in San Diego.

As a result, it is the oldest scientific institution west of the Mississippi and the second oldest in Southern California. It is a great place to spend a day exploring the fascinating exhibits that are housed inside.

For families and nature lovers, this museum has a variety of exhibits to enjoy. It offers free guided hikes and interesting talks, and its animal skull collection is fascinating.

The museum also welcomes pets and ADA-defined service animals. It is located on the outskirts of San Diego, so it is ideal for families who love animals and nature. However, there are plenty of other things to do while you’re there.

The Natural History Museum is an excellent place to learn about the natural history of Southern California. Whether you’re looking for an introduction to the world’s ecosystems or are a seasoned veteran of scientific discovery, you’re sure to learn something new.

In addition to the natural exhibits, the museum also offers a giant-screen theater where you can watch a movie. Throughout the entire museum, there are interactive exhibits, as well as rotating exhibits.

24. Things to Do in San Diego: San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is part of the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Things to Do in San Diego San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge

This urban area on the San Francisco Bay provides a refuge for a variety of wildlife species. It was officially dedicated in June 1999.

The area is also home to many endangered and threatened species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. The facility is open to the public, and you can find plenty of information about the sanctuary on its website.

There are two units in the refuge. The South San Diego Bay Unit contains salt ponds, subtidal habitats, and intertidal mudflats. There are more than 12 species of birds in this area alone.

The south end of the bay is also a nursery area for California halibut. The intertidal mudflats are a haven for shorebirds during low tide. Other notable species include the Belding’s savannah sparrow and the light-footed clapper rail.

The sanctuary has eight-kilometer walking trails that give you access to the bay. The best way to observe the wildlife is from these trails. The refuge is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset.

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a popular place to visit in National City. It was originally established in 1868 and is open to the public every day of the year. If you want a historical tour, the park also offers one of these tours.

25. Things to Do in San Diego: Coronado Ferry 

The Coronado Ferry is one of the most popular ways to see downtown San Diego. The trip takes approximately 15 minutes and is free to locals.

Things to Do in San Diego Coronado Ferry
Coronado Ferry

The flagship ferry service provides cheap mini-bay cruises that run at a standard schedule. Passengers must wear face masks and facial coverings.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket booth once you arrive at the ship. During the evening, the ship offers dining cruises and narrated harbor tours.

The Coronado Ferry has been operating for over 100 years and connects downtown San Diego with the island of Coronado. Guests can shop, dine, or stroll the beach on the island.

While on the boat, they can enjoy the San Francisco skyline and the Coronado Bridge. They can also watch boats on the bay. If you have a vehicle or are traveling with a pet, make sure to check the regulations before setting off.

The flagship ferry offers scenic transportation to Coronado Island. Passengers can enjoy the fresh air and a glimpse of the city’s skyline. There are two routes for the Flagship Ferry, departing from the Broadway Pier on the hour and half-hour.

The Flagship departs from the San Diego Convention Center on the half-hour. The 15-minute ride to the island’s Coronado Ferry Landing provides easy access to the island.

Things to Do in San Diego

  • USS Midway Museum
  • La Jolla Cove
  • San Diego Zoo
  • Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
  • iFLY San Diego
  • Balboa Park
  • Old Point Loma Lighthouse
  • Children’s Pool
  • Belmont Park
  • Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
  • Cedros Avenue Design District
  • Fashion Valley
  • Spanish Village Art Center
  • San Diego Mormon Temple
  • San Diego Air and Space Museum
  • SeaWorld in San Diego
  • Black’s Beach
  • Ocean Beach
  • La Jolla Playhouse
  • Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
  • Mormon Battalion Historic Site
  • Embarcadero in San Diego
  • San Diego Natural History Museum
  • San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge
  • Coronado Ferry