Sandy beaches, gorgeous parks, and a vibrant downtown.
San Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States beloved for its year-round warm and sunny climate. With white sand beaches hugging the Pacific, gorgeous public parks, and burgeoning foodie scene, San Diego is a favorite destination for travelers seeking a refined city break with a casual surf town vibe.
Begin your day soaking in San Diego’s natural beauty at La Jolla, one of the most photographed pieces of coastal land within the entire state of California. La Jolla beach is nestled within a 6,000-acre ecological reserve and is bursting with a spectacle of marine life - from seals and sea lions sunning themselves on the beach to barracuda, batfish, and giant sea bass gliding along under the surf. Park along Coast Blvd and take a walk along the La Jolla Coast Walk Trail, a scenic trail running from La Jolla Shores to La Jolla Cove.
Explore San Diego’s terrestrial wonders at the famous Balboa Park. This 1,200-acre urban oasis is known for its world-class zoo, sprawling gardens, and refined Spanish Revival-style architecture. Highlights include the Botanical House, fronted by an iconic lily and lotus pond and containing over two thousand individual plant species, and the California Tower, recently reopened to the public after being closed for 80 years. After walking up 125 steps, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the San Diego Zoo and the Coronado Bridge.
Finally, get to know downtown San Diego with a walk along the Embarcadero, a tribute to the region’s colorful maritime history located along the Big Bay adjacent to downtown. In addition to historic ships like the USS Midway, a working fishing harbor, and the San Diego Maritime Museum, you’ll find a vibrant commercial corridor brimming with shops, restaurants, and a new 12-acre waterfront park.