San Diego County, California
San Diego County, California is a great destination for all. From scenic hikes to must-visit beaches, the area has plenty of top attractions and activities to explore. Hike the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for views of the Pacific Ocean, or take a stroll through Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban park with gardens, museums, and trails. For a unique experience, visit the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, a 1,800-acre wildlife sanctuary where you can explore the African Savannah and get close with exotic animals. For a more tranquil experience, check out the Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park, or take a boat tour of Mission Bay for views of the city skyline. No matter what type of activity you’re looking for, San Diego County has something for everyone.
Top Spots in and near San Diego County
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San Diego, California
Hike the Balboa Park Trails
4.64.3 mi / 459 ft gainThe Balboa Park Trail offers the chance to see wildlife and is open year-round. The trail is shared by runners, families, hikers, and bikers. Dogs are able to use the trail but must be kept on leash. There is a dog park you will pass by.Read more -
San Diego, California
Hike the Seven Bridge Walk
5.05.2 mi / 452 ft gainThe Seven Bridge Walk is a 5.2 mile loop through urban San Diego with scenic views, neat bridges, and gorgeous palm trees. Dogs are allowed on the trail, and the loop is perfect for families and all skill levels. On a Sunday, you will go through the Hillcrest farmers market - a great spot for cof...Read more -
San Diego, California
Climb the Famous California Balboa Bell Tower
5.0This tour allows you to climb up the iconic landmark of Balboa Park. It has never been open to the public to climb until January 2014. An easy seven floor climb brings you to a beautiful viewing deck. From the top of the tower you'll be able to see the glimpses of the San Diego Zoo, the Cuyamaca ...Read more -
San Diego, California
Run the Convention Center Stairs
4.8This is a great spot to get in a workout and to get some fresh air. The stairs are around 100 steps to the top, so if you're feeling good, you can get a few rounds in. In terms of safety, there are usually people around the convention center, so you most likely won't be alone. With that said, be ...Read more -
Ramona, California
Hike to Cedar Creek Falls
4.84.2 miThe trail starts out at a hill in a residential area and ends in an unexpected spot where there is a beautiful waterfall complete with swimming hole. Surrounded by 75-foot high cliffs, a magnificent waterfall splashes into a pool known as the Devil’s Punch Bowl. Hikers have been known to dive fro...Read more -
Poway, California
Hike around Goodan Ranch
5.03 miStarting at the Sycamore Canyon Trail head, you will see the sign and gate that leads to Goodan Ranch. Head down the gravel road for 1.1 miles, until you reach a 3-way directional split. Heading straight for another .5 miles will take you directly to the ruins of the old Goodan house. Here you wi...Read more -
San Diego, California
Discover the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
4.0Located at the intersection of Spruce Street and First Avenue this spot is hard to miss! There is no parking lot, but there is plenty of street parking nearby!! This suspension bridge is one of those hidden gems in San Diego. Located within Banker's Hill, this bridge brings peace and serenity. It...Read more -
Coronado, California
Explore Bayview Park
5.0Even though I am quite familiar with this spot, I doubt that most San Diegans have sat in the benches at this little park to take in the sunset, sunrise, or spectacular views of downtown San Diego. I'm absolutely positive that most out-of-towners have no idea that this little gem exists. I want t...Read more -
Coronado, California
Catch a Sunset at Coronado Beach
4.6Photograph the iconic and historic Hotel Del and Coronado Beach on Coronado Island. The Del is a beautiful Victorian resort, which is the second largest wooden structure in the United States. The Del offers amazing photo opportunities during sunset and during sunrise when it is beautifully backli...Read more -
Ramona, California
Iron Mountain Peak Trail
4.15.67 mi / 1030 ft gainIron Mountain is the longest wilderness trail in Poway, CA. The parking lot is free and provides bathroom and water fountain amenities. The distance from the parking area to the summit is approximately 3.2 miles. Beginning with a wide smooth trail, slowly transitioning into semi-technical incline...Read more -
San Diego, California
Explore Old Town San Diego State Historical Park
4.51 miFrom where Father Junipero Serra established the first of 21 California Missions in 1769, this area was the first permanent European settlement in the San Diego region. Today, past and present meet in a preserved historical park located near Downtown San Diego. You can explore life as it was in t...Read more -
Rosarito Beach Municipality, Mexico
Surf in Baja Norte
Hit an ATM before crossing the border, then take the 1 down the coast past Tijuana and into Rosarito. Make sure to pack the wallet with singles and nickels to pay the $2.05 at each booth.Make your way down to K38 where you can have your pick of beach, point, or reef break. Robert's turnoff from...Read more -
San Diego, California
Hike to the Rope Swing in Tecolote Canyon
4.04.4 miTecolote Canyon offers a great opportunity to explore nature right in the heart of San Diego, whether it is a hike, run, or bike ride on the trails. But the best kept secret is perhaps a rope swing over the creek! The main trail starts off at Tecolote Canyon Natural Park & Nature Center, wh...Read more -
San Diego, California
Explore Cabrillo National Monument
4.5Cabrillo National Monument is named after Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European explorer to reach America's Wet Coast. There are many knowledgable rangers in the park who are eager to share interesting historical facts. Activities in the park include hiking: the Bayside Trail offers 2 mile...Read more -
Ramona, California
Hiking Mount Woodson's East Approach
3.04 miMount Woodson is a well know hiking trail in San Diego County. It is know for its breath taking views and the famous potato chip rock. The Trail on the east side of the Mountain is fairly steep but is about half the distance of the trail on the west side of the mountain. To get to the trail on t...Read more -
San Diego, California
Bayside Trail
4.01.99 mi / 397 ft gainThe Bayside Trail features beautiful spring wild flowers and is accessible year-round. The trail is wide with a few rest stops and benches along the way. The trail is breezy, much cooler than many trails inland, featuring ocean views throughout the duration. This monument commemorates the landi...Read more
