
Is San Diego worth visiting? Without a doubt! The first time I visited San Diego, I was struck by its laid-back vibe, stunning coastal scenery, and endless sunshine. From relaxing on the golden sands of La Jolla to exploring the lively Gaslamp Quarter, I quickly realised why this city is nicknamed “America’s Finest City.” Whether you’re a beach lover, foodie, or history buff, San Diego has something for everyone—and it’s impossible not to fall in love with its charm.
Nestled in Southern California, just a stone’s throw from the Mexican border, San Diego offers a perfect blend of coastal beauty, outdoor adventure, and vibrant culture. It’s home to iconic attractions like Balboa Park, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and the USS Midway Museum. Beyond the tourist hotspots, you’ll find craft breweries, trendy neighbourhoods, and some of the best fish tacos in the country. With its perfect year-round weather and stunning Pacific coastline, San Diego is a dream destination for anyone seeking sun, surf, and fun.
But is San Diego worth visiting for you? In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 reasons why San Diego should be on your travel list, from its picturesque beaches to its diverse food scene. Plus, we’ll share practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to this Californian gem. Keep reading to discover why San Diego might just be your new favourite destination.
Table of Contents
Pros – Reasons You Should Visit San Diego
1. Perfect Weather Year-Round
San Diego is famous for having some of the best weather in the United States, with mild temperatures, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. Even in the winter, daytime temperatures typically stay in the 60s to 70s (15-25°C), making it a great escape from colder climates. Summers are warm but rarely too hot, thanks to the ocean breeze.
I visited in January, and while other cities were dealing with snowstorms, I was walking along the beach in a t-shirt. The weather was so perfect that I barely checked the forecast—every day was sunny and pleasant. If you’re looking for a destination where you don’t have to worry about extreme heat or cold, San Diego is hard to beat.
2. Some of the Most Beautiful Beaches in California
San Diego’s coastline is stunning, with a variety of beaches that cater to different types of visitors. La Jolla Cove offers dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters perfect for snorkeling, while Coronado Beach has soft, golden sand and a laid-back atmosphere. Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are great for surfing and people-watching, while Torrey Pines State Beach offers rugged beauty with scenic hiking trails.
I spent a day hopping between different beaches, and each one had its own unique charm. The sunset at Sunset Cliffs was one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen, with the sky turning shades of pink and orange over the Pacific. Whether you want to relax, swim, surf, or explore tide pools, San Diego’s beaches are some of the best in the state.
3. A Laid-Back, Friendly Atmosphere
Unlike other major cities in California that can feel fast-paced and hectic, San Diego has a much more relaxed and welcoming vibe. The combination of beach culture, friendly locals, and slower-paced living makes it an easy city to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed.
I noticed this the moment I arrived—people were friendly, conversations were easy, and the overall energy of the city was inviting. Whether I was grabbing tacos at a food truck, chatting with a local surfer, or walking along the boardwalk, I felt welcomed everywhere I went. San Diego has all the benefits of a big city but with a much more laid-back and stress-free atmosphere.
4. Incredible Mexican Food and Fresh Seafood
San Diego’s proximity to the Mexican border means it has some of the best and most authentic Mexican food in the U.S. From street-style tacos to fresh ceviche and California burritos, the food scene is packed with flavor. In addition, the city’s coastal location means seafood is always fresh, with fish tacos being a must-try.
I had tacos from a small stand in Barrio Logan, and they were some of the best I’ve ever had—simple, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. Later, I tried a California burrito stuffed with carne asada and fries, and it was as delicious as everyone says. If you love Mexican food, San Diego is paradise, and you’ll find incredible options at every price point.
5. Balboa Park is One of the Best Urban Parks in the Country
Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s most iconic attractions, offering beautiful gardens, historic Spanish architecture, and a collection of world-class museums. Home to the San Diego Zoo, art museums, and cultural institutions, the park is a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.
I spent an entire afternoon wandering through Balboa Park, and every turn revealed something new—stunning gardens, a historic organ pavilion, and charming courtyards. The mix of nature and culture makes it a perfect place to explore at a relaxed pace. Whether you’re visiting museums or just enjoying the scenery, Balboa Park is one of the best green spaces in any major U.S. city.
6. The San Diego Zoo is World-Renowned
The San Diego Zoo is often ranked as one of the best zoos in the world, with its massive collection of animals, immersive habitats, and conservation efforts. Located in Balboa Park, the zoo is home to pandas, tigers, elephants, and countless other species from around the globe. Unlike traditional zoos, its spacious and naturalistic enclosures make for a more engaging and ethical wildlife experience.
I was amazed by how much there was to see—the zoo is so large that I couldn’t even cover it all in one visit. The highlight for me was the koalas, which you don’t often see in U.S. zoos. Even if you’re not usually a zoo person, the San Diego Zoo is so well designed that it feels like a wildlife sanctuary rather than a traditional animal park.
7. A Thriving Craft Beer Scene
San Diego is one of the best cities in the U.S. for craft beer lovers, with over 150 breweries producing everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and unique experimental brews. Neighborhoods like North Park, Miramar, and Little Italy are packed with local breweries offering tastings and taprooms with a laid-back atmosphere.
I spent an evening doing a brewery crawl in North Park, and every place had something different to offer. I tried a hazy IPA at Modern Times, a coffee-infused stout at Belching Beaver, and a crisp lager at a smaller spot I stumbled upon. Even if you’re not a huge beer drinker, the variety and quality of San Diego’s craft beer scene make it a fun experience.
8. A Great Base for Outdoor Adventures
San Diego’s location makes it a great base for exploring outdoor destinations beyond the city. You can take a short drive to Torrey Pines for scenic hiking, head to the Anza-Borrego Desert to see stunning landscapes, or even make a day trip to Mexico. The city itself also offers plenty of outdoor activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and whale watching.
I took a kayak tour in La Jolla and got up close to sea caves while watching seals lounging on the rocks. The clear water, fresh ocean air, and wildlife sightings made it one of the most memorable parts of my trip. Whether you prefer mountains, deserts, or the ocean, San Diego offers easy access to all of them.
9. A Strong Military and Maritime Heritage
San Diego has a deep naval history, and visitors can explore it through attractions like the USS Midway Museum, where you can tour a massive aircraft carrier, and the Maritime Museum, which features historic ships. The city is home to a major naval base, and military influence can be seen in many parts of San Diego.
Walking through the USS Midway was fascinating—I got to see the control rooms, aircraft hangars, and even the living quarters where sailors stayed. The history of the Navy in San Diego is an important part of the city’s identity, and even if you’re not a history buff, the exhibits are interactive and engaging.
10. Stunning Sunsets and Ocean Views
One of the best things about San Diego is its breathtaking coastal views, especially at sunset. Whether you’re watching from Sunset Cliffs, La Jolla Cove, or the Coronado Bridge, the combination of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and golden skies creates a perfect setting.
I ended one of my days at Sunset Cliffs, where I watched the sun dip below the horizon while waves crashed against the rocks. It was one of those moments that reminded me why California’s coastline is so special. If you’re a fan of beautiful scenery, San Diego’s ocean views are among the best you’ll find anywhere.
Cons – Things to Consider When Visiting San Diego
1. The Cost of Visiting Can Be Surprisingly High
San Diego is often seen as a more laid-back alternative to cities like Los Angeles or San Francisco, but that doesn’t mean it’s cheap. The cost of accommodations, dining, and attractions can add up quickly, especially in popular areas like La Jolla, Gaslamp Quarter, and Coronado. Hotels, even mid-range options, often have high nightly rates, and many charge additional resort fees or parking fees that can take visitors by surprise.
I stayed in a hotel near downtown, and while the room rate seemed reasonable at first, the additional fees for parking and amenities quickly pushed the total cost much higher than expected. Even dining out was more expensive than I anticipated—casual meals at beachfront restaurants often came with high price tags, and drinks at bars added up fast. While it’s possible to visit San Diego on a budget by choosing lower-cost accommodations and eating at local taco stands, travelers should be prepared for prices that are on the higher end.
2. Traffic and Parking Can Be a Challenge
While San Diego isn’t as congested as Los Angeles, traffic can still be frustrating, especially during rush hours or when traveling to popular beaches and attractions. The city’s layout means that many of the best spots, like La Jolla, Balboa Park, and Mission Beach, aren’t always close to each other, making a car necessary for most visitors. However, finding parking in these areas can be difficult and expensive, particularly on weekends.
I tried to find street parking near Pacific Beach on a sunny Saturday, and it was nearly impossible. After driving in circles for 20 minutes, I ended up paying for a lot, which wasn’t cheap. In downtown areas like the Gaslamp Quarter, metered parking fills up fast, and garages can charge steep hourly rates. If you’re planning to drive in San Diego, budgeting extra time to find parking and being prepared for additional costs is a good idea.
3. The Homelessness Issue is Highly Visible
Like many West Coast cities, San Diego has a large and visible homeless population, particularly in areas like downtown and near Balboa Park. While most people experiencing homelessness are not dangerous, the high concentration of tents, makeshift shelters, and people living on the streets can be unsettling for some visitors.
I noticed it most while walking through certain parts of downtown, where entire blocks had tent encampments and people sleeping on sidewalks. While the city has efforts in place to address the issue, it remains a significant challenge. If you’re visiting San Diego, it’s best to be aware of this reality, especially if you’re not used to seeing homelessness at this scale. Most areas that tourists frequent are perfectly safe, but some parts of downtown can feel less welcoming after dark.
4. The Ocean Water is Colder Than You Might Expect
San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, but many visitors are surprised by how cold the Pacific Ocean can be, even in the summer. Unlike places like Florida or Hawaii, where the ocean water is warm year-round, the water temperature in San Diego often stays in the 60s (15-20°C), making it chilly for swimming without a wetsuit.
I was expecting to jump into warm waves during my visit in June, but when I stepped into the water at La Jolla Shores, I was shocked by how cold it felt. While surfers and locals are used to it, those expecting warm, tropical waters might find it less comfortable. If you plan to swim in San Diego, it’s best to go on a hot day when the cool water feels more refreshing, or consider wearing a wetsuit if you’re planning to stay in the ocean for long.
5. Limited Public Transportation Makes a Car Necessary
San Diego has a public transportation system, including trolleys and buses, but it’s not as extensive or convenient as in other major cities. Many of the best attractions, like the beaches, hiking trails, and even some neighborhoods, are difficult to reach without a car. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but they can get expensive if you rely on them for every trip.
I tried using public transportation to get around, and while the trolley worked well for some areas, it didn’t take me to many of the places I wanted to visit. Getting from downtown to La Jolla or Torrey Pines without a car required multiple bus transfers and took much longer than driving. If you’re staying in a central location like downtown, walking is a great option for nearby attractions, but for a full experience of the city, renting a car is almost a necessity.
When to Visit San Diego
The best times to visit San Diego are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is warm, sunny, and the crowds are smaller. These shoulder seasons are perfect for enjoying the city’s outdoor attractions, like Balboa Park and La Jolla Cove, without peak tourist traffic. Summer (June to August) is the busiest season, with ideal beach weather but higher hotel prices. Winter (December to February) is mild, making it a pleasant time for sightseeing, though cooler temperatures may limit beach days.
How to Get to San Diego
San Diego is served by San Diego International Airport (SAN), just 3 miles from downtown. SAN offers domestic and international flights via airlines like Alaska Airlines, Southwest, and Delta. From the airport, the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Bus Route 992 connects to downtown, and taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft are convenient options. Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner connects San Diego to Los Angeles and other coastal cities, and intercity buses also serve the area. Driving is another popular option, especially for travellers arriving from nearby cities like LA or Phoenix.
Where to Stay in San Diego
San Diego has accommodations to suit every budget and style:
- Luxury: Downtown or La Jolla – Stay at Hotel del Coronado, a historic beachfront icon, or Pendry San Diego, a chic retreat with a rooftop pool.
- Mid-range: Gaslamp Quarter or Mission Valley – Consider The Guild Hotel, a boutique option in the heart of downtown, or Hilton San Diego Mission Valley, offering comfort and convenience.
- Budget: Pacific Beach or Old Town – Try ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel, a fun and affordable option for beach lovers, or Old Town Inn, a charming and budget-friendly choice near historic attractions.
Getting Around San Diego
San Diego’s MTS trolley system is an affordable and convenient way to explore major areas like downtown, Old Town, and Mission Valley. MTS buses complement the trolley system, offering routes to popular attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo. For coastal areas, consider renting a bike through Discover Bike, a bike-share program, and cruise along the scenic boardwalks in Pacific or Mission Beach. Ride-hailing apps and taxis are widely available, but traffic can be heavy during peak times. Renting a car is a great option for visiting places like Torrey Pines or Carlsbad, where public transport may be limited.
How Long to Spend in San Diego
Three to four days is ideal for exploring San Diego’s highlights. Spend your first day visiting Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Dedicate the second day to enjoying the beaches, such as La Jolla Cove, where you can kayak or snorkel, and Coronado Beach. On the third day, explore the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town, followed by a sunset at Point Loma’s Cabrillo National Monument. With extra time, take a day trip to Legoland California or relax in the nearby wine region of Temecula. San Diego’s laid-back vibe, natural beauty, and endless attractions make it a perfect California escape.
Conclusion
So, is San Diego worth visiting? Absolutely! With its gorgeous beaches, world-class attractions, and vibrant cultural scene, San Diego offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Highlights like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, and the laid-back surf culture make it a city that truly has something for everyone. While it can be a little pricey, the amazing experiences and perfect weather more than make up for it. If you’re ready to soak up the best of Southern California, start planning your trip to San Diego today—it’s a destination you won’t want to miss!