San Diego Coastal

Coronado

www.coronado.ca.us

Coronado Ferry Landing

1201 First St; 619-435-8895  www.coronadoferrylanding.com

The best view of the San Diego skyline and an ideal spot for shopping, dining and people watching. Take a kayak tour of San Diego Bay or rent a paddleboard and explore at your own pace. Bikes also available for rent to explore Coronado. Take the ferry to or from downtown.

Coronado Tidelands Park

2000 Mullinex Dr; 619-522-7342  www.portofsandiego.org/ experiences/where-go/coronado

Spend the day enjoying beautiful bay, city and bridge views, recreational fields, picnic areas and a playground loved for its inclusive design. Picnic, fly a kite or take a scenic bike ride along the waterfront.

Hotel del Coronado  1500 Orange Ave; 619-435-6611  www.hoteldel.com

This iconic beachfront resort offers a taste of Victorian elegance mixed with laid back San Diego vibes. Guests enjoy upscale waterfront dining or quick grab-and-go options, seasonal events, movies on the beach and more.

La Jolla

Birch Aquarium

2300 Expedition Way 858-534-3474 https://aquarium.ucsd.edu

Dive into the wonders of the ocean and learn about groundbreaking discoveries by local Scripps Institute oceanographers. Enjoy hands-on interactions at Tide Pool Plaza and explore 60 unique marine life habitats. Don’t miss the Beyster Family Little Blue Penguins habitat, home to the world’s smallest penguins!

La Jolla Cove

1100 Coast Blvd.

A treasured spot for snorkeling, kayaking, strolling and sea lion spotting. The cove-protected beach with its crystal blue water and small surf in the summer draws swimmers of all ages.

Cabrillo National Monument 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr., Point Loma 619-523-4285  www.nps.gov/cabr/index.htm

Learn some of San Diego’s history at the Cabrillo visitor center and Old Point Loma Lighthouse. Hike scenic coastal trails (including the new Oceanside Trail) and explore seasonal tidepools.

La Jolla Shores Beach and Kellogg Park

8277 Camino del Oro

Popular beach for families, with a large grass area, playground and lifeguard station. Alcohol and pets prohibited.

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial

6905 La Jolla Scenic Dr. S.  858-384-2405 www.soledadmemorial.org

For 70 years, the Veterans Memorial has honored military vets from all American conflicts, dating back to the Revolutionary War. Drive up in time for sunset to experience an unforgettable view of San Diego.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

700 Prospect St; 858-454-3541 www.mcasd.org

Don’t miss Prebys Play Days, a free family fun day on the second Sunday of every month, at this beautiful museum that features galleries, a sculpture garden, gift shop and more. www.mcasd.org/learn/prebysplay-day

Rose Canyon Trail

Between Genesee Ave. and La Jolla Colony Dr.

Take in beautiful canyon views and local wildlife sightings including raptors, owls, hawks and more. The easy 4.2mile roundtrip is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking and running. Dogs allowed on leash.

Stuart Art Collection

9500 Gilman Dr.  858-534-2117 http://stuartcollection.ucsd.edu

Take a self-guided tour of this fascinating collection of larger-than-life art installations on the UCSD campus. Sign up for a tour of Fallen Star, a cottage that appears to have landed on the corner of Jacobs Hall.

Sunny Jim Cave and Store

1325 Coast Blvd.

858-459-0746 www.cavestore.com

Get a glimpse into La Jolla’s prohibition era as you descend 145 steps into a hand-dug bootlegger’s tunnel that leads to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave. Tours are self-guided and offered first-come, first served. Tickets only available in The Cave Store.

Torrey Pines Gliderport

2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr.  858-452-9858 www.flytorrey.com

Experience the thrill of paragliding off coastal cliffs or enjoy spectating from one of San Diego’s most picturesque spots above the ocean. Grab a bite or beverage from the expanded Cliffhanger Café and dining patio onsite. Portable restrooms only.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

12600 N. Torrey Pines Rd.

858-755-2063 www.torreypine.org

Visitors are rewarded with scenic overlooks, great photo ops and stunning views of La Jolla’s coastline at this favorite hiking spot. Guided hikes, Mindful Walks and accessible trails are available. No food, drinks or pets allowed.

Windansea Beach

6800 Neptune Pl.

The rocky shoreline and beautiful scenery are ideal for photo sessions. Surfers appreciate the hard-breaking surf; swimmers should use extreme caution. No restrooms.

Mission Bay

Action Sport Rentals

619-241-4794 www.actionsportrentals.com

Choose your adventure with the rental of bikes, surreys, boats, jet skis, kayaks and more from seven locations around Mission Bay, including six popular resorts.

Campland On the Bay

2211 Pacific Beach Dr. 858-581-4260 www.campland.com

Reserve an RV or tent site on the shores of Mission Bay. Highlights include planned family-fun activities (bubble soccer, outdoor movie nights, dodgeball, etc.), bike and watersports rentals, beachfront access, live music, on-site cantina and ice cream parlor and more.

Crown Point Park

3700 Crown Point Dr.  619-525-8213

This expansive, bayside park has everything needed for a relaxing day in the sun including picnic tables, tons of grass, fire rings, boat launch, basketball courts, tot lot and a beach.

Hospitality Point

2500 block of Quivira Way  619-235-1169

Locals love this spot for amenities such as picnic tables and covered shelter, fire rings, large grassy areas and a paved path for walking or biking along Mission Bay.

Mission Bay Aquatic Center

1001 Santa Clara Pl.  858-488-1000 www.mbaquaticcenter.com

Spend the day at the bayfront. Take lessons or rent equipment for all your favorite watersports—kayaks, SUPs, sailboats, surfboards and more.

Mission Bay Beach Club/Superbloom Cafe

2688 E Mission Bay Dr. 858-201-7551 www.missionbaybeachclub.com

No membership required at this “club!” Enjoy beautiful bay views while indulging in specialty coffee, lunch or a glass of wine from Superbloom. Peruse Picnic Market for cheese, snacks or a specialty gift. Check website for events.

Mission Bay Bike Path www.discovermissionbay.org/bike-path

Mission Bay Dr.

Cruise around Mission Bay on a flat, paved 12-mile path that’s easy enough for kids, and almost loops the bay. Bring your own bike or rent one from a nearby shop. There are many spots to stop along the way.

SeaWorld San Diego

500 SeaWorld Dr.  619-222-4732 www.seaworld.com/san-diego

This awesome, educational theme park offers thrill rides, entertaining shows, interactive exhibits, and Rescue Jr., a fun area featuring themed rides for littles, water play and rescue animal meet-and-greets. New attractions include the exciting Arctic Rescue straddle coaster and Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience.

Mission Beach

Belmont Park

3146 Mission Blvd; 858-488-1549  www.belmontpark.com

San Diego’s iconic oceanfront amusement park just steps from the beach offers thrill rides, arcade games, laser tag, mini golf and more. It’s home to historic wooden rollercoaster, The Giant Dipper, Plunge San Diego and Escapology (escape rooms). To celebrate its 100th birthday in 2025, Belmont Park already has a new ride, Shipwreck Cove!

Mission Beach and Boardwalk

Ocean Front Walk from Pacific Beach Dr. South  www.missionbeachboardwalk.com

Grab an ice cream cone and stroll along one of San Diego’s favorite waterfront destinations. Spend time at Belmont Park or enjoy a low-key beach day on the water. Plenty of beachfront restaurants to choose from. Lifeguards on duty. No pets allowed.

Plunge San Diego  3115 Ocean Front Walk; 858-779-1630  www.plungesandiego.com

A family favorite swimming destination for 100 years! Floor-to-ceiling windows and retractable roof allow swimmers to enjoy the pool all year long. Kids love the inflatable floating obstacle course. Day passes available.

San Diego Sand Castles Beach location varies www.sandiegosand.com

Learn how to build sandcastles like a pro with a family sandcastle-building lesson! No experience necessary; recommended for ages 9 & up.

Ocean Beach oceanbeachsandiego.com

A paradise for artists, surfers and foodies. OB’s laid-back vibe offers a respite from the daily grind. Enjoy eclectic stores, grassy parks, Dog Beach, Hodad’s burgers (featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives) and the area’s popular farmers market.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park  1424 Sunset Cliffs Blvd.  619-525-8213

Enjoy panoramic sunsets, gorgeous bluffs, rugged coastline, arches and tidepools.

Pacific Beach

www.pacificbeach.org

Kate O. Sessions Memorial Park  5115 Soledad Rd.  619-235-1169

An urban oasis offering 79 grassy acres with stunning views, two playgrounds and ball fields. Great for hiking and picnics.

Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach Dr. to Tourmaline St.  619-221-8899  www.pacificbeach.org

A popular choice for surfers and swimmers, Pacific Beach draws large crowds during the summer. Enjoy beachfront restaurants and eateries and fishing from Crystal Pier.

Point Loma

Corvette Diner

2965 Historic Decatur Rd.  619-542-1476  www.cohnrestaurants.com/corvettediner

Get a taste of the 50s as sassy waitresses in poodle skirts serve tasty burgers and shakes while groovin’ to golden oldies. Visit the Gamers Garage to play more than 60 arcade games.

The Hot Spot

2770 Historic Decatur Rd., Barracks 14  619-223-1339  www.thehotspotstudios.com

Get crafty at this art studio—paint pottery or canvas, make candles or mosaics, plant succulents and more. Fun for families and groups.

Liberty Station & Public Market

2820 Historic Decatur Rd.  www.libertystation.com; www.libertypublicmarketsd.com   Explore a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, art galleries and play areas. Plan a picnic at NTC Park or watch airplanes take off while strolling along the water. This former Naval Training Center is a popular spot for families.

Tappers Mini Golf

2960 Truxtun Rd. 619-222-4653  www.thelomaclub.com

Two nine-hole mini golf courses for kids and adults located at The Loma Club at Liberty Station, across the road from Corvette Diner.