With over 70 miles of coastline, San Diego is the perfect destination for unforgettable waterfront adventures and should be at the top of your travel bucket list. This seaside gem boasts unbeatable weather, lush green spaces, and sparkling beaches that call sunseekers worldwide. San Diego has something for everyone whether you’re into outdoor adventures, exploring diverse neighborhoods, or enjoying delicious foods. To truly soak in the atmosphere and beauty of “America’s Finest City,” you will want to mix what’s enthralling and memorable. From iconic attractions to unique tours and exciting events, there’s a perfect combination of sightseeing and experiences to check off your bucket list that demands a visit to San Diego. Let’s dive into the top 10 must-see spots.
1 Dive into a Sea of Adventure: Whale & Dolphin Watching with City Cruises
Enjoy the best sightseeing on the San Diego Bay—with a professionally narrated tour on a fun-filled San Diego Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure. Join us on the water as we search for Gray Whales (winter), Blue Whales (Summer), Minke Whales, Fin Whales, dolphins, sea lions, marine birds, and much more! As we cruise, we’ll see up-close views of the bay’s wildlife and iconic landmarks from a new perspective. Onboard our staff will provide live narration and details about the aquatic life and landmarks we pass for a truly memorable experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture all the sights in photos and video. Click here to view our Whale Watching Report.
2 Get Wild at the San Diego Zoo
The world-renowned San Diego Zoo houses over 12,000 animals across 680 species and sub-species within its 100 acres in Balboa Park. It’s also one of the largest zoos in the country with one of the most extensive collections of rare and endangered animals in the world. You will come face to face with many
exciting creatures such as red pandas, giraffes, elephants, leopards, and koalas in exhibits linked to expansive trails.
3 Explore San Diego’s Crown Jewel -Balboa Park
A national historic landmark and Southern California treasure covering some 1,200 acres, San Diego’s sprawling Balboa Park has been serving up good fun for more than 150 years, locals and visitors. Located just minutes from downtown, spend a day in this cultural oasis in the middle of the city to experience San Diego’s past and peek into its future.
4 Gaslamp Quarter: Where the City Comes Alive After Dark
The Gaslamp District, located downtown, is the perfect spot for any occasion. 
This one-stop shop has it all-from comedy shows, live music, cigar lounges, and rooftop retreats to make your night unforgettable. Here you will find a plethora of options to experience the heart and soul of San Diego.
5 The Food Scene in San Diego: Where to Eat and Drink
San Diego’s food scene is heavily influenced by its Mexican heritage infused with California’s local flair and proximity to the ocean making for an interesting culinary vibe. The best restaurants showcase fresh seafood, Italian, Asian, American staples, and everything in between. Conde Nast lists these restaurants as top picks while in town. Each diverse neighborhood offers a wide range of dining treasures-many featuring outdoor patios and rooftops to take advantage of the weather. There is no doubt this city knows how to serve it up and you will eat well while in San Diego!
6 Set Sail for a Scenic Experience with City Cruises
Nothing compares to dining with a view-other than becoming the view! City Cruises offers amazing dining, cocktail, and dinner cruises where amazing meals and stunning sights come together on the San Diego Bay.
Signature Dinner Cruise
Our San Diego Signature Dinner Cruise is an unforgettable dinner cruise experience. Dine and dance on the Bay and enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet
using locally sourced ingredients with creative cocktails and a well-stocked cash bar-all while enjoying the gorgeous views of San Diego’s spectacular skyline. You’ll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as the Coronado Bay Bridge, the Star of India, and Hotel Del Coronado from comfortable interior spaces and refreshing open-air decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Join us for a memorable, one-of-a-kind evening.
Premier Dinner Cruise
Savor an elegant evening on the Bay with our San Diego Premier Dinner Cruise. We promise delicious cocktails, plated, chef-prepared menus, and top-notch service. Our DJ sets the mood while you soak in the San Diego skyline from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. You’ll delight in awe-inspiring sights like the Coronado Bay Bridge, Star of India, Hotel del Coronado, and more. This is an experience that will be long treasured.
Sights & Sips
This San Diego Sights & Sips Cruise is a one-of-a-kind happy hour with displayed hors d’oeuvres, tray-passed desserts, and drink specials to enjoy in our
breezy, indoor, and outdoor dining area. You’ll revel in the San Diego Bay views with live DJ entertainment while dancing under the San Diego stars!
7 La Jolla: A Seaside Paradise
You must get to La Jolla when visiting San Diego. Its name literally translates to “the jewel,”-and it is exactly that! With sea lions calling it home, amazing coastline views, and gorgeous coves to explore, you could easily spend days relaxing here. Capture the magic of “golden hour” with stunning sunsets and enjoy the crystal-clear waters while snorkeling or scuba diving for an unforgettable adventure.
8 Picture-Perfect Coronado Island
Sparkling white beaches and old Hollywood charm make Coronado Island a must-see while in San Diego. Situated across San Diego Bay from downtown, take a picturesque ferry or drive over to enjoy the timeless SoCal experience that has beckoned celebrities for more than a century.
9 Chase the Sun at Sunset Cliffs
Located in the coastal community of Point Loma, discover Sunset Cliffs National Park. This 68-acre regional park features unbelievable ocean views, dramatic cliff and cave formations, and a charming seaside ecosystem. Popular with surfers, ocean lovers, and people who like to cruise Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, this area offers mesmerizing views and unforgettable sunsets that will take your breath away.
10 Step Aboard History with a Trip to the USS Midway Museum
Board the longest-serving American aircraft carrier of the 20th century the USS
Midway. Peek into history with an impressive look at what life was once like while on this historic “floating city.” As one of the few United States military installations open to the public, it’s a San Diego must-see.
Come See Why San Diego Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List
With so many incredible experiences in San Diego (even for your four-legged friends) narrowing down your bucket list can be tough. Plan your trip today for a perfect blend of stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and endless adventures that will leave you wanting more of this sun-drenched city.