Top 10 Attractions in San Diego

Blessed by a sunny climate that never varies ten degrees from moderate and a splendid setting along the Pacific Ocean, San Diegans can well boast they live the California Dream. Although non-stop outdoor recreation, a vibrant downtown, and worldclass attractions keep the city’s spirit young, its heart lies in its Spanish beginnings as the birthplace of California. 

1. Gaslamp Quarter
2. Embarcadero
3. Balboa Park
4. Old Town State Historic Park
5. Coronado
6. Point Loma
7. Mission San Diego de Alcalá
8. SeaWorld
9. La Jolla
10. Tijuana

1. Gaslamp Quarter

A hip nightlife, trendy restaurants, and unique boutiques compete for attention in San Diego’s most vibrant neighborhood. Alonzo Horton’s 1867 New Town seemed doomed to the wrecking ball in the 1970s, but a civic revitalization program transformed the dilapidated area into a showcase destination. By 1980, the Gaslamp Quarter was decreed a National Historic District with its quaint Victorian, Italianate, and Renaissance structures.

2. Embarcadero

Since Juan Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay in 1542, much of the city's life has revolved around the waterfront. Pioneers came ashore on its shores; immigrants worked as whaling and fishermen; and the shipyards and warships of the U.S. Navy left an indelible mark. Tourism adds another layer to the lively atmosphere of the port. Embarcadero greets visitors with its art exhibits, walkways, nautical museum, harbour cruises and benches, allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy non-stop harbour activity.

3. Balboa Park

For more than 100 years, Balboa Park has captivated San Diego with its romantic hillside location, lush landscaping and grand architecture. The park's magnificent Spanish architecture dates back to the Panama-California Exposition of 1915-16. On weekends, thousands of tourists come to pursue their interests, whether it be entertainment, Shakespeare or art. However, the park is probably best known for the world-famous San Diego Zoo, which houses nearly 4,000 animals and 800 species.

4. Old Town State Historic Park

After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, many retired soldiers built what is now the Old Town, arranging their houses and shops around the square in typical Spanish style. Through trade with Boston, the city began to prosper. After a fire in 1872 destroyed much of the commercial center, San Diego moved to a "new town" near the bay. Today, you can explore the surviving and restored buildings of San Diego pioneer families.

5. Coronado

Sometimes called an island because of its rural vibe away from the big cities, picturesque Coronado sits on a stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. More retired naval officers live here than anywhere else in the United States, and while the military presence is high, it's low-key. For over 100 years, tourists have flocked to Coronado to be a part of this fascinating life. Because even with its thriving resorts, restaurants, roadside cafes and unique shops, the village never seems to be overwhelmed.

6. Point Loma

Point Loma used to be one of the roughest areas in town. San Diego's first ship docked here, followed by the largest whaling operation and leather tanning and tallow production on the West Coast. Today, sailboats and yachts grace the marina, and waterfront homes are some of the most expensive real estate in the city. Cabrillo National Monument is the third most visited monument in the United States and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the entire city.

7. Mission San Diego de Alcalá

When Russian fur traders approached California in the 18th century, Spain knew it had to have a place in its half-forgotten territory. It was the first mission in California, founded in 1769 by Father Junipero Serra. Serra encouraged Native Americans to live here through religious education in the fields. The harassment of soldiers and the lack of water supply caused the mission to be shifted to this location from its original location in the old city. In 1976, Pope Paul VI granted this missionary chapel status.

8. SeaWorld

SeaWorld's black-and-white whale superstar Sham is a San Diego icon with 12,000 marine and aquatic animals as his extras. Opened in 1964, SeaWorld has grown into an internationally recognized attraction, welcoming 4 million visitors each year. It also operates an oceanographic and marine mammal research center and provides rehabilitation services for stranded and injured animals. Tropical landscape grounds and educational exhibits provide respite from the constant action.

9. La Jolla

Barren Pueblo Land Only In 1886, developer Frank Botsford purchased a sizable parcel of land in La Jolla and subdivided it. Other real estate developers quickly realized La Jolla's potential and built stylish resorts. But it wasn't until Alan Browning Scripps arrived in 1896 with her generous civic donation that the city developed into a center for research, education, and the arts. Now, La Jolla sits on some of the most expensive real estate in America. No wonder residents call their paradise a "jewel."

10. Tijuana

Once you cross "La Linea", the locals know the border, and the sensory stimulation is overwhelming: the smell of hawkers, beggars, dust, souvenirs, music and food is just the beginning. Step out of the tourist area and you'll find a city with some of Mexico's best dining and cultural activities, and a community characterized by hard work, tenacity and resourcefulness.