The San Diego Zoo pioneered cageless exhibits and offers travelers a fun and informative experience. Featuring over 4000 animals, the park gives you a peek into the wildlife of several ecosystems, from deserts to rainforests. Ride the tour bus, which crosses three quarters of the zoo’s area, and learn more about the animals from the guide as you view them in their natural habitats. You can also hop on the Skyfari gondola lift to see the entire park from above. Tickets to the San Diego Zoo that also cover the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido are available for a discount. – Tripadvisor

This 1,200-acre nature park comprises 17 museums, gardens, musical theaters, a sports complex, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The park’s Spanish-Moorish architecture and 19 distinct gardens (some require admission fees) attract both tourists and locals. Don’t miss the San Diego Air and Space Museum, the Spanish Village Art Center for unique handicrafts, and the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, where free concerts are hosted in the evenings. Travelers recommend putting aside the whole day to explore the park. To make the most of your time, hop on the Balboa Park trams (they’re free!) to get around. – Tripadvisor

Only at SeaWorld can you get close to dolphins, penguins, sharks and more. See awe-inspiring shows with magnificent killer whales, playful dolphins, humorous sea lions plus an amazing pet show featuring adopted animals. Dive under the sea at Explorer's Reef and touch a crab, shark, or playful cleaner fish. Experience exhilarating rides, roller coasters and water rides. See dozens of amazing attractions. Enjoy fresh California cuisine. Experience this beautiful park located on scenic Mission Bay. SeaWorld is a top-rated, all-age attraction and a must-see for any visit to San Diego. Have unforgettable fun that sparks a passion for wild animals and wild places.

Stately monument honoring Cabrillo, discoverer of San Diego Bay, is located in Point Loma that overlooks the city and the Bay.

Although this park is located within San Diego's city limits, it remains one of the wildest landscapes along the Southern California coast, with miles of unspoiled beaches, chaparral, elegant Torrey Pine trees and a lagoon vital to many species of migrating birds.

As the name suggests, this park’s rugged coastline features magnificent ocean views at sunset. Don’t miss the chance to explore the tide pools—be careful as some parts of the climb down can be uneven and steep. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is also a great spot to see gray whales passing by on their migration. There are drinking fountains throughout the park, but there aren’t any food establishments nearby—pack lunch as it’s a perfect spot for picnics. Expect crowds approaching sunset, and parking can be tricky late afternoon. You can take a bus there from Old Town instead of driving. – Tripadvisor

Enjoy a slice of Californian life at this iconic long sandy beach in San Diego. This laidback beach town has almost two miles of beachfront boardwalk, lined with shops, bars, and restaurants. Here, you can cycle or rollerblade down the boardwalk, relax on the beach, go for a swim and surf, and even have fun at an amusement park. The old-school Belmont Park is free to enter and has both retro and modern amusement rides, food stalls, and entertainment all year round. There are also year-round whale-watching tours from Mission Bay, that'll take you to the best wildlife viewing spots.

Take in the mesmerizing coastal views as you stroll down Crystal Pier. Watch the surfers in action, and if you’re lucky, you might be able to spot frolicking dolphins and whales during the migration season. Then, rent a bicycle and cruise down Ocean Front Walk and the Mission Bay Bike Path—both offer plenty of spots to pause for a bite to eat or a dip in the water. Pacific Beach is renowned as San Diego’s party capital, and the boardwalk is lined with bars, cafes, and restaurants. Unfortunately, the drive there can get rather congested, so consider coming in on Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner. – Tripadvisor