Affectionately known as America’s Finest City, San Diego is celebrated as one of the ideal destinations for fun in the sun by travelers to the region. As California’s second-largest city, its mild climate and sunny days make it easy to take advantage of the wealth of activities and experiences visitors can look forward to. From beautiful La Jolla beaches, and historic and cultural sites, to the San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND, families, friends, or a combination of both will always find plenty to do no matter what their interests. Add to those amenities a range of global culinary delights, and a trip here is sure to satisfy both body and soul. No doubt the biggest challenge for you will be narrowing down an itinerary that covers all the sights and sounds you’re hoping to experience, and of course, that’s where we come in. You didn’t think we’d leave you without any guidance on how to make the most of your trip, did you? Come on now, you know that’s not our style! Instead, we’re keen to deliver insider info on where to go and what to do that will help you savor every second in San Diego.
San Diego Sightseeing Tours (2024)
What better way to take in the sights of San Diego, than with a San Diego sightseeing tour. The Best of the Bay Tour in San Diego is a 90-minute tour covering over 20 miles worth of sights where you’ll see over 50 landmarks including Seaport Village, Shelter Island, ship-building and dry-docking facilities, Coronado Island, Point Loma, and Cabrillo National Monument, and much more! As you cruise, you may even encounter some marine wildlife. If you happen to be looking for more wildlife , you’re in luck!
Where the Wild Things Are
First things first: If you’re headed to a spectacular seaside city like San Diego, you must head out on the water. Because honestly, if you don’t, you’ll be missing a crucial component of how best to enjoy the location. The simplest way to do that? Book a boat cruise and be sure you reserve one that levels up the adventure in an exciting way. In San Diego, that trip must come complete with a sighting of at least one of its unofficial signature sea-faring mascots—sea lions, dolphins, or whales. These beautiful creatures love to play in the waves of the San Diego Bay, and with two of our cruises, you can get in on all the action.
A case in point is the Two-Hour Harbor Cruise & Sea Lion Adventure in San Diego. Not only does this tour feature a professionally narrated educational journey by local area experts that highlights 50 storied local landmarks, but it also provides an up-close view of marine animals and majestic sea birds complete with a discussion highlighting the local environmental efforts being made to protect them. Traveling more than 13 miles on the Big Bay, guests will pass by Cabrillo National Monument, Coronado Island, Point Loma, Seaport Village, Shelter Island—and much more. With numerous opportunities to capture everything in your sightline for photos and videos, this is one trip you will treasure again and again. Although the adrenaline rush may inspire hunger pangs, we’ve got you covered there too since our full-stocked snack bar is always open. But what’s not always open? Spots on the ship, so try to make reservations as early as you can because popular cruises like this one get filled up fast…
Another excursion to add to your potential itinerary? The San Diego Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure. This four-hour journey includes a professionally narrated tour of the city’s whale-watching hot spots guided by expert captains and volunteer naturalists from the San Diego Natural History Museum—and the search is on no matter what the season. Whether it’s Gray Whales in winter, Blue Whales in summer, Minke Whales, Fin Whales, dolphins, marine birds, sea lions, and more, you’ll have a front-row view of the bay’s extraordinary wildlife, local landmarks, and awe-inspiring views of the city skyline. This inspiring excursion is bound to make passengers take in the sights with a fresh perspective as the details about aquatic life and iconic sites result in a truly memorable experience that’s unmatched elsewhere. Get your cameras and cell phones at the ready because there will be a multitude of chances to capture spectacular photos and videos throughout the trip. If all the excitement results in hunger or thirst, food and beverages are available for purchase onboard. Also, have no fear about missing seeing some spectacular marine life because if no whales are sighted on your cruise, you will get a pass good to return for another try to see them.
Winter Whale Watching begins December 16th with grey whale migration and don’t forget – kid’s cruise free in December and January on whale watching tours with Promo Code: WHALEYFUN!
Enjoying Mainland Moments
Now if you want to give your sea legs a short break there’s a range of attractions San Diego has in store. Families can enjoy LEGOLAND California and the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park for sure, but they can also head to Sesame Place San Diego and SeaWorld San Diego. Outdoor entertainment abounds with 70 miles of breathtaking sandy surf (we’re looking at you Mission Beach!) and other gorgeous natural attractions such as Balboa Park, home to the aforementioned San Diego Zoo, assorted gardens, lush greenery, and walking paths—plus 15 museums and the Old Globe Theatre. A visit to the Gaslamp Quarter is perfect for foodies, cultural hounds, and shopping enthusiasts seeking the best restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques in town, while a jaunt to Old Town provides an in-depth look at historic architecture and Mexican culture. Additionally, there are a few land tours to consider including the San Diego Hop-on Hop-off Narrated Trolley Tour and the San Diego Little Italy Food Walking Tour with Tastings.
San Diego Dinner Cruise
And speaking of tastings, we would be remiss not to mention one of the perfect ways to end your day, and that’s an evening trip with our Premier Dinner Cruise in San Diego. This two-and-a-half hour dining experience offers evening elegance on the Bay featuring delectable cocktails; freshly, plated chef-prepared menus of entrees, salads, and desserts; unlimited coffee, hot and iced tea, and water; and high-quality service. Explore writes, “City Cruises is revolutionizing this with sophisticated dining experiences and voyages featuring carefully crafted menus, offering passengers a taste of luxury with a diverse gastronomic feast.” As you soak in the skyline, our live DJ entertainment sets the mood and fills the surroundings of the climate-controlled interior as well as the open-air rooftop decks. Taking in iconic sights including the Coronado Bay Bridge, Hotel del Coronado, and Star of India (among others), guests will indulge in a night of luxurious adventure made for amazing memories. Cocktail attire is suggested, and upgrades are available of creative cocktails, wine, and beer from our well-stocked cash bar as well as other amenities to customize the experience.
After all these suggestions, we know it will be a challenge to figure out what’s the most appealing to you. But just remember: No matter how you decide to sightsee San Diego it’s about savoring quality time in this quality destination, which will make whatever you choose an unforgettable experience in its own right.
FAQs – San Diego Sightseeing Tours
What sightseeing experiences does City Cruises offer in San Diego?
City Cruises in San Diego offers sightseeing tours like Best of the Bay Tours, Whale Watching Cruises, and themed event cruises such as dinner or sunset cruises.
How educational are the sightseeing tours with City Cruises?
The Whale Watching sightseeing tours are particularly educational, featuring expert narration from the San Diego Natural History Museum.
Which iconic sights can be seen on City Cruises sightseeing tours in San Diego?
City Cruises sightseeing tours offer views of San Diego landmarks like the Coronado Bridge, Cabrillo National Monument, and the USS Midway Museum.
Do City Cruises sightseeing tours in San Diego cater to special events?
Yes, City Cruises provides sightseeing tours for special events, including dining experiences and holiday-themed cruises.
Are there any unique features of City Cruises’ sightseeing tours in San Diego?
City Cruises’ sightseeing tours are known for their professional narration, onboard amenities, and special offers like kids cruising for free or discounts for veterans.
What makes City Cruises a preferred choice for sightseeing in San Diego?
Customers praise City Cruises for their high-quality sightseeing tours, exceptional service, and the unique perspectives they offer of San Diego’s scenic beauty and landmarks.
How far is Downtown San Diego from the airport?
Downtown San Diego is approximately 3.5 miles from San Diego International Airport. There are various transportation options including shuttle services, taxis, limousines, and public transport like the Metropolitan Transit System bus route #992.
What public transportation options are available in San Diego?
San Diego offers a range of public transportation options, including the San Diego Trolley, Coaster train, and a comprehensive bus system. For detailed information on routes, schedules, and fares, visit the Metropolitan Transit System’s website.
What is the typical taxi or rideshare fare from the airport to Downtown?
The fare from the airport to Downtown’s Gaslamp Quarter typically ranges between $16-$18. Some hotels also offer complimentary shuttle services.
What types of sightseeing tours are available in San Diego in 2024?
City Cruises offers the best sightseeing tours on the San Diego Bay! San Diego also offers a variety of tours including hop-on hop-off trolley tours, water-based tours (yacht, sailboat, kayak, etc.), biking tours, Segway tours, walking tours, high adventure tours, and self-guided tours. These tours cover different parts of the city like Old Town, Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado, and more.
What are some popular attractions in San Diego?
Attractions include the Fleet Science Center, Natural History Museum, Coronado Ferry, PETCO Park, the San Diego Asian Pacific Historic District, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and Presidio Park, among others. Each of these places offers unique experiences and insights into San Diego’s history and culture.