The second biggest city in California, San Diego is a southern lying coastal destination close to the border with Mexico. There are a number of good, sandy beaches along the coast here, namely La Jolla, a high-end resort, and Mission Beach, a popular spot for surfers and anyone trying to cool off in the hot summer sun.
With its temperate climate and long coastline, San Diego is a destination that attracts visitors year-round with much of the action centered on the water. The beaches are an obvious lure for tourists, along with the many water parks like SeaWorld. Seaport Village features shopping, restaurants, cafés and bars in a setting that aims to recreate the harbor feel of 100 years ago.
San Diego Zoo is considered one of the best wildlife parks in North America, set over 100 acres. Old Town is unsurprisingly the most historic area of the city, featuring the Sheriff’s Museum, a trolley bus ride and a Ghosts and Gravestones tour at night that takes in San Diego’s creepy side. This part of the city is one of the best for Mexican and Italian food along with the ubiquitous Irish pubs.
San Diego attractions
Old Town: visit the old chapel and school house, tuck into some of the best Mexican food in the city and take the Ghosts and Gravestones tour after dark.
Balboa Park: home of numerous attractions including the sprawling San Diego Zoo, the Air and Space Museum and the Museum of Man.
SeaWorld: popular with children for its aquariums and animal shows.
Mission Beach: often packed with surfers, this is one of the best beaches near the downtown area with a number of offshore ship wrecks for scuba divers.
Seaport Village: a recreated harbor from the turn of the 20th century with shopping, restaurants and bars.
Point Loma Lighthouse: stunning hillside location overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Nearby Fort Rosecrans is a WWII defense post of bunkers and artillery positions.