20 Best Sights in San Diego, California

The cultural center of the Barrio Logan neighborhood, Chicano Park—designated a National Historic Landmark in 2016—was born in 1970 from the activism of local residents who occupied the space after the state rescinded its promise to designate the land a park. Signed into law a year later, the park is now a protected area that brings together families and locals for both public and private events, a welcoming gathering space as well as an outdoor gallery featuring large murals documenting Mexican-American history and Chicano activism. Every year Chicano Park Day is held on the Saturday nearest April 22, filling the park with the sights and sounds of music, dancers, vintage cars, and food and clothing vendors.

This shimmering blue-green inlet surrounded by cliffs is what first attracted everyone to La Jolla, from Native Americans to the glitterati. "The Cove," as locals refer to it, beyond where Girard Avenue dead-ends into Coast Boulevard, is marked by towering palms that line a promenade where people strolling in designer clothes are as common as Frisbee throwers. Ellen Browning Scripps Park sits atop cliffs formed by the incessant pounding of the waves and offers a great spot for picnics with a view. The Cove has beautiful white sand that is a bit coarse near the water's edge, but the beach is still a great place for sunbathing and lounging. At low tide, the pools and cliff caves are a destination for explorers. With visibility at 30-plus feet, this is the best place in San Diego for snorkeling, where bright-orange garibaldi fish and other marine life populate the waters of the San Diego–La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve. From above water, it's not uncommon to spot sea lions and birds basking on the rocks, or dolphin fins just offshore. The cove is also a favorite of rough-water swimmers, while the area just north is best for kayakers wanting to explore the Seven La Jolla Sea Caves. Amenities: lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; swimming; walking.

San Diego's monument to sports and fitness, this 4,235-acre aquatic park has 27 miles of shoreline including 19 miles of sandy beaches. Playgrounds and picnic areas abound on the beaches and low, grassy hills. On weekday evenings, joggers, bikers, and skaters take over. In the daytime, swimmers, water-skiers, paddleboarders, anglers, and boaters—some in single-person kayaks, others in crowded powerboats—vie for space in the water.

The six square blocks on the site of San Diego's original pueblo are the heart of Old Town. Most of the 20 historic buildings preserved or re-created by the park cluster are around Old Town Plaza, bounded by Wallace Street on the west, Calhoun Street on the north, Mason Street on the east, and San Diego Avenue on the south. The plaza is a pleasant place to rest, plan your tour of the park, and watch passersby. San Diego Avenue is closed to vehicle traffic here.

Some of Old Town's buildings were destroyed in a fire in 1872, but after the site became a state historic park in 1968, reconstruction and restoration of the remaining structures began. Five of the original adobes are still intact: La Casa de Estudillo, La Casa de Machado y Stewart, La Casa de Machado y Silvas, the Pedrorena-Altamirano House, and La Casa de Bandini (now the Cosmopolitan Hotel).

Facing Old Town Plaza, the Robinson-Rose House was the original commercial center of Old San Diego, housing railroad offices, law offices, and the first newspaper press. The largest and most elaborate of the original adobe homes, the Casa de Estudillo was occupied by members of the Estudillo family until 1887 and later gained popularity for its billing as "Ramona's Marriage Place" based on a popular novel of the time. Albert Seeley, a stagecoach entrepreneur, opened the Cosmopolitan Hotel in 1869 as a way station for travelers on the daylong trip south from Los Angeles. Next door to the Cosmopolitan Hotel, the Seeley Stable served as San Diego's stagecoach stop in 1867 and was the transportation hub of Old Town until 1887, when trains became the favored mode of travel.

Several reconstructed buildings serve as restaurants or as shops purveying wares reminiscent of those that might have been available in the original Old Town. Racine & Laramie, a painstakingly reproduced version of San Diego's first cigar store in 1868, is especially interesting.

Pamphlets available at the Robinson-Rose House give details about all the historic houses on the plaza and in its vicinity. Free 45-minute walking tours of the historic park are offered daily at 11 am and 2 pm; they depart from the Robinson-Rose House.

The covered wagon located near the intersection of Mason and Calhoun Streets provides a great photo op.

Ever since the renovation of the former Naval Training Center, Liberty Station has championed local artists by transforming the space into a hub for culture and arts. This thriving ARTS DISTRICT showcases murals, sculptures, and other mediums by local artists whose pieces are commissioned for approximately one year. To get a closer look, a Public Art Scavenger Hunt invites visitors to tour the public art by scanning a QR code at any work of art. On the first Friday of every month, guests are invited to meet working artists, discover art installations, and explore the ARTS DISTRICT. Some of the most notable pieces include Victor Ving’s mural Greetings from the U.S. Naval Training Station, an interpretation of a 1940s military postcard; Jonathan Allen’s wooden boat USS Brave that honors the navy heritage; and Mary Buckman’s terra cotta sculpture Sisterhood, representing the bond between Kumeyaay (California's indigenous people) and western women.

The powerful waves at this beach attract world-class surfers, and the strand's relative isolation appeals to nudist nature lovers (although by law nudity is prohibited). Backed by 300-foot-tall cliffs whose colors change with the sun's angle, Black's can be accessed from Torrey Pines State Beach to the north, or by a narrow path descending the cliffs from Torrey Pines Glider Port. Be aware that the city has posted a "do not use" sign there because the cliff trails are unmaintained and highly dangerous, so use at your own risk. If you plan to access Black's from the beaches to the north or south, do so at low tide. High tide and waves can restrict access. Strong rip currents are common—only experienced swimmers should take the plunge. Lifeguards patrol the area only between spring break and mid-October. Also keep your eyes peeled for the hang gliders and paragliders who ascend from atop the cliffs. Parking is available at the Glider Port and Torrey Pines State Beach. Amenities: none. Best for: nudists; solitude; surfing.

This is not really a house but a cluster of red tile–roof stucco cottages representing 34 different countries and cultures. The word "pacific" refers to the goal of maintaining peace. The cottages, decorated with crafts and pictures, are open weekend afternoons between 11 am and 5 pm, when you can chat with transplanted people and try out different ethnic foods. Folk-song and dance performances are presented on the outdoor stage around 2 pm most Sundays from March through October—check the schedule at the park visitor center. Across the road from the cottages, but not affiliated with them, is the Spanish colonial–style United Nations Building. Inside, the United Nations Association's International Gift Shop has reasonably priced crafts, cards, and books.

This is one of San Diego's most popular beaches due to its wide sandy shore, gentle waves, and incredible views of La Jolla Peninsula. There's also a large grassy park, and adjacent to La Jolla Shores lies the San Diego--La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, 6,000 acres of protected ocean bottom and tidelands, bordered by the Seven La Jolla Sea Caves. The white powdery sand at La Jolla Sands is some of San Diego's best, and several surf and scuba schools teach here. Kayaks can also be rented nearby. A concrete boardwalk parallels the beach, and a boat launch for small vessels lies 300 yards south of the lifeguard station at Avenida de Playa. Arrive early to get a parking spot in the lot near Kellogg Park at the foot of Calle Frescota. Street parking is limited to one or two hours. Amenities: lifeguards; parking (no fee); showers; toilets. Best for: surfing; swimming; walking.

Considered the nation’s largest air show,  this annual event features aerial acts, military demonstrations, immersive experiences, and static displays. You can even tour vintage aircraft and get the experience of soaring high in one of the on-site simulators. The event is usually held in September or October.

La Jolla's highest spot can be reached by taking Nautilus Street to La Jolla Scenic Drive South, and then turning left. Proceed a few blocks to the park, where parking is plentiful and the views are astounding, unless the day is hazy. Marking the iconic coastal peak are granite plaques and a cross commemorating veterans since 1954. The top of the mountain is an excellent vantage point from which to get a sense of San Diego's geography: looking down from here you can see the coast from the county's northern border to the south far beyond Downtown.

Curated by Joe Frangiosa, this 800-square-foot exhibit is dedicated to depicting the history of the U.S. Navy, its ships, and their evolution from the Revolutionary War period to World War II. In addition to constructed model ships, the exhibit includes artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and toys detailing the Navy's history.

Held rain or shine every Thursday (3 to 7:30 pm), this weekly market features more than 50 vendors selling everything from locally grown produce to fresh flowers, arts and crafts, and an impressive selection of gourmet foods. Grab a bite, get your face painted, and enjoy some live music by local performers. Save yourself a parking headache and use the adjacent North Park Parking Garage for $1/hour or $5/day.

Every Wednesday from 4 to 8 pm, this Certified Farmers' Market features over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, crafts, prepackaged food, hot food, and more. Other popular offerings include handmade apparel and accessories, holistic products, and fresh flowers. Live music rounds out the show.

The hillsides of the 40-acre green space overlooking Old Town from the north end of Taylor Street are popular with picnickers, and many couples have taken their wedding vows on the park's long stretches of lawn, some of the greenest in San Diego. The park offers a great ocean view from the top, and more than 2 miles of hiking trails below. It's a nice walk from Old Town to the summit if you're in good shape and wearing the right shoes—the uphill climb takes about half an hour. You can also drive to the top of the park via Presidio Drive, off Taylor Street.

If you walk, look in at the Presidio Hills Golf Course on Wallace Street. It has an unusual clubhouse that incorporates the ruins of Casa de Carrillo, the town's oldest adobe, constructed in 1820. At the end of Mason Street, veer left on Jackson Street to reach the presidio ruins, where adobe walls and a bastion have been built above the foundations of the original fortress and chapel. Also on-site is the 28-foot-high Serra Cross, built in 1913 out of brick tiles found in the ruins. Continue up the hill to find the Junípero Serra Museum, built at the sight of the original Mission San Diego de Alcalá and often mistaken for the mission. Open weekends, the Serra Museum commemorates the history of the site from the time it was occupied by the Kumeyaay Indians through its Spanish, Mexican, and American periods. Then take Presidio Drive southeast to reach the site of Fort Stockton, built to protect Old Town and abandoned by the United States in 1848. Plaques and statues also commemorate the Mormon Battalion, which enlisted here to fight in the battle against Mexico.

Due to its proximity to transportation hubs and the vast array of green spaces, visitors may notice a number of homeless people in the area. Thanks to its high-traffic location, however, Presidio Park and the greater Old Town area are considered generally safe.

Four habitats across 6,000 acres make up this underwater park and ecological reserve. When the water is clear, this is a diver's paradise with reefs, kelp beds, sand flats, and a submarine canyon reaching depths up to 600 feet. Plunge to see guitarfish rays, perch, sea bass, anchovies, squid, and hammerhead sharks. Snorkelers, kayakers, and stand-up paddleboarders are likely to spot sea lions, seals, and leopard sharks. The Seven La Jolla Sea Caves, 75-million-year-old sandstone caves, are at the park's edge.

Although you can explore the park on your own, the best way to view it is with a professional guide.

Immerse yourself in art and history with a 2-mile walk along Shelter Island through Shoreline Park. This self-guided tour highlights seven public works of art starting at the tip of the island with the Yokohoma Friendship Bell. Dating back to 1958, the bell was gifted to San Diego by sister city, Yokohama, as a symbol of the post-World War II friendship. Weighing over two tons, the bronze bell designed by artist Masahiko Katori is suspended from a small pagoda. At the foot of the bell stands The Girl in Red Shoes, a sculpture by Japanese artist Munehiro Komeno. Representing the compassion between the two nations, it tells the story of Kimi, a Japanese orphan adopted by an American couple in the 1920s. Nearby is Pearl of the Pacific, created in 1998 by architectural students from four cities—Yantai, China; Tijuana, Mexico; Vladivostok, Russia; and San Diego. It’s comprised of a fountain, walls, and tile work representing the four quadrants of the Pacific Rim. Built over the course of a month, this symbol of unity depicts the beauty that can be created when countries are united in friendship. Along the water’s edge is Pacific Spirit, a bronze sculpture by James Hubbell. Standing 6 feet tall, the plaque below the female statue reads, “The waves echo behind me. Patience-Faith-Openness, is what the sea has to teach." Near the west end of Shelter Island stands the impressive Tunaman's Memorial created by Franco Vianello in 1988. At an impressive 15 feet tall, the work pays tribute to San Diego’s fishermen lost at sea. Located at the Children’s Playground, the bronze sculpture Bubble Bath by Dan Hill was erected as a memorial to a little girl. In striking contrast, the massive arched Pacific Portal is a concrete and mosaic structure created by James Hubbell. Commonly referred to as the Shelter Island Gazebo, this gathering place is reflective of ocean waves and billowing sails.

Less a gallery than an open-air scavenger hunt for some of the city's most impressive works of visual art, the Stuart Collection—located across the 1,200-acre UCSD campus—boasts over 20 must-see, and sometimes massive, pieces by some of the biggest names in contemporary art, including Jenny Holzer, John Baldessari, and Robert Irwin. A self-guided virtual tour can be accessed through their website.

As the name would suggest, this natural park near Point Loma Nazarene University is one of the best places in San Diego to watch the sunset thanks to its cliff-top location and expansive ocean views. Some limited beach access is accessible via an extremely steep stairway at the foot of Ladera Street. There are three viewing spots in Ocean Beach at Luscombs Point, Ladera Street, and Osprey Point. Beware of the treacherous cliff trails and pay attention to warning signs since the cliffs are very unstable. If you're going to make your way to the narrow beach below, it's best to go at low tide when the southern end, near Cabrillo Point, reveals tide pools teeming with small sea creatures. Farther north the waves lure surfers, and Osprey Point offers good fishing off the rocks. Birders should visit the Hillside section of Sunset Cliffs Nature Park at Ladera Street, where 16 species have been observed, including the coastal California gnatcatcher. Keep your eyes peeled for migrating California gray whales during the winter months. Check WaveCast ( www.wavecast.com/socal) for tide schedules. There are portable toilets in the lower parking lot at Ladera Street. Amenities: parking (no fee); toilets. Best for: solitude; sunset; surfing.

The campus of one of the country's most prestigious research universities spreads over 1,200 acres of coastal canyons and eucalyptus groves, where students and faculty jog, bike, and skateboard to class. If you're interested in contemporary art, check out the Stuart Collection of Sculpture—20 thought-provoking, site-specific works by artists such as Nam June Paik, William Wegman, Niki de St. Phalle, Jenny Holzer, and others arrayed around the campus. UCSD's Price Center has a well-stocked, two-level bookstore—the largest in San Diego. Look for the postmodern Geisel Library, named for longtime La Jolla residents Theodor "Dr. Seuss" Geisel and his wife, Audrey. Bring a credit card for the pay stations and park in lot P704.

There are free outdoor walking tours offered at various times for the public. For scheduled tours, visit www.admissions.ucsd.edu.

Ingraham Street bisects this island, providing two distinct experiences for visitors. The west side is taken up by the Paradise Point Resort & Spa, but you don't have to be a guest to enjoy the hotel's lushly landscaped grounds and bayfront restaurants. Boaters and Jet-Skiers congregate near the launch at Ski Beach on the east side of the island, where there's a parking lot as well as picnic areas and restrooms. Ski Beach is the site of the annual Bayfair boat races held every September. At the model yacht pond on the south side of the island, children and young-at-heart adults take part year-round in motorized miniature boat races.