Things to do in San Diego Coast

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit San Diego Coast

Types of activities

Where to stay

San Diego Coast travel guide

Gaslamp Quarter which includes street scenes, a city and mist or fog

Gaslamp Quarter which includes a city, shopping and street scenes

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Top places to visit

1. Mission Bay

Spend summer days enjoying the calm waters and gorgeous scenes of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon just north of downtown San Diego. This 4,200-acre (1,700-hectare) bay features pristine beaches, water sports for all ages and park attractions that bring summer to life.

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2. SeaWorld

SeaWorld® San Diego, located in trendy Mission Beach, has been pleasing crowds ever since it opened in 1964 and is a must for anyone traveling with children. Kids and adults alike flock to the many exhibits offering opportunities to interact with marine animals. Touch, feed and give training signals to the performing bottlenose dolphins at Dolphin Point. With prearranged permission, you can even don a wetsuit and jump into the water with the majestic beluga whales.

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3. Petco Park

Experience America’s favorite pastime in San Diego’s Petco Park. Enjoy stunning views of southern California as you watch a baseball game, concert or other sporting event. The park is named after San Diego-based pet supplies retailer Petco.

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4. Mission Beach

People have been coming to Mission Beach to top up their tans since the 1920s, when the first holiday homes were built along its shores. Development increased in the 1960s and today this is a thriving, affluent oceanfront suburb. Thankfully, though, it hasn’t lost its old-fashioned charm. Stroll along the boardwalk that runs the length of the beach and enjoy the relaxed, carnival atmosphere courtesy of street performers, roller bladers and skateboarders, and the occasional artist selling jewelry or other crafts.

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Mission Beach featuring a sandy beach, a bay or harbour and general coastal views

5. Coronado Beach

Coronado Beach epitomizes California’s famous mix of glamour, laid-back culture and natural beauty. It’s a short drive from downtown San Diego over the Coronado Island Bay Bridge, accessible by car, water taxi, or a 15-minute ferry ride. The area, known for its white sand beach that sparkles with jet-black mica, has been a popular vacation destination with Hollywood celebrities and families alike since it was established in the late 1880s.

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Coronado Beach which includes a hotel and a garden

What to do in San Diego Coast

Popular places to visit

San Diego Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in San Diego Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Diego. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and entertainment choices.

Mission Bay

Mingle with eccentric locals at bohemian beaches, soak up the sun on a Jet Ski and fish from marshy islands at San Diego’s premier water park.

SeaWorld

Animal interaction, entertaining rides and informative exhibits are all on offer at this family favorite destination.

Port of San Diego

Explore the waterfront in San Diego with a trip to Port of San Diego. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.

Petco Park

Purchase a hot dog and watch the San Diego Padres, California’s southernmost Major League Baseball team, play on their home field.

Mission Beach

A favorite vacation spot for 100 years, this seaside village combines old-fashioned charm with modern amenities.

Hotel del Coronado

Learn about the local history of Coronado when you spend time at Hotel del Coronado.

Naval Base San Diego

Naval Base San Diego is just one of the places to see in San Diego, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Marine Corps Recruit Depot

Marine Corps Recruit Depot is just one of the places to see in San Diego, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the beautiful sunsets and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.

Areas of San Diego Coast

Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego’s historic heart has shed its seedy past to emerge as one of the city’s premier dining, shopping and entertainment hubs.

Pacific Beach

4/5(13 area reviews)

Relax in beachside cafés in the morning, surf clean breaks in the afternoon and dance with a youthful club crowd at night at this coastal San Diego strip.

Mission Beach

If you're spending some time in Mission Beach, Mission Beach and Mission Bay are top sights worth seeing.

Ocean Beach

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

Ocean Beach is beloved for its stunning beaches. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Dog Beach and Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.

Point Loma

4.5/5(38 area reviews)

Seaside views a bustling port and top sights from Shelter Island to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park – discover Point Loma, a destination also famous for its island views.