Located in sunny southern California, San Diego is a warm mix of casual beach scenes and military history. San Diego is paradise for tourists, with idyllic temperatures throughout the year and 70 miles of superb coastline. It is recognized as a family destination but equally attractive for a tourist in search of culture, art, culinary delights and world class shopping.
A car will be needed if staying outside of downtown; nevertheless, the coastal areas are packed with accommodation options. The beach communities and neighbourhoods in the area offer much diversity, from laid back beachfront escapes to energetic urban vacations.
Top Attractions in San Diego, CA
Of course, any trip to San Diego needs to include time at the beach! However, if you're up for a little more adventure, head to the Pacific Surf School. Located at the famous Mission Beach, the Pacific Surf School specializes in helping beginners “hang ten". Mission Bay Hotels are readily available.
Away from the water, you'll find San Diego State University. While you're there, you can see how students learn while having fun in the sun!
For a day that combines learning with fun, take a trip to the USS Midway Museum. One of San Diego's most popular attractions, the USS Midway is an aircraft carrier that has been turned into a museum. Now, it features dozens of exhibits and even restored aircrafts. Inside, you'll learn what it's like to be a member of the U.S. Navy living out at sea.
For an amazing view of everything that San Diego has to offer, go to Point Loma. There, you will see the city's iconic lighthouse, whales swimming by, naval jets taking off, and the picturesque Cabrillo Monument - that commemorates Juan Rodriquez Cabrillio's arrival at San Diego Bay in 1542.
If you want to spend some time with amazing creatures, head to the San Diego Zoo. Just outside the downtown area, the zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals! They're likely to be at their most active either in the morning or in the late afternoon, when it isn't quite as hot. The Nighttime Zoo stays open until late from June through to September. There are new shows and live music every year, featuring music, lights and free-flying birds.
The San Diego Natural History Museum allows a visitor to find out about anything from minerals to dinosaurs. They also offer an engaging educational exhibit.
Indigenous tribes possibly lived here around 9,000 years back. There is definite documented history though, of when the Spanish came to San Diego in the 1500s. Old Town is where the first settlement of the Spanish happened and is considered the 'birthplace' of California. The district includes historic structures, for example Presidio Park, distinguished Victorian homes, the El Campo Cemetery, and the first one roomed school house. The Whaley House has been officially designated as a haunted house.
San Diego, CA Hotels
San Diego, CA accommodation can mean planning a luxurious type of vacation, with panoramic views of the Pacific and wall mounted flat screen TVs. With a bit of flexibility though, a visitor could experience the beauty of the city for much less, even if it means watching a standard TV and having a partial view of the city. There are plenty of hotels in San Diego to choose from, but if you're looking for the best view, you'll likely find it at Mission Bay, Ocean Beach, or Sunset Cliffs. Cheap hotels in San Diego, CA and budget friendly options and hostels can also be found near the Little Italy parts of town.