La Jolla Cove
North AmericaBeachParksCity

San Diego

Beaches, parks, and harbor museums

Plan with AISee the 2 itinerariesPhoto: Rhododendrites, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Typical trip length7–14 days
On travli2 itineraries

About San Diego

San Diego lies on the Pacific coast of the United States. Its main areas include the cliffs and coves of La Jolla, the open lawns of Balboa Park, and the sandy stretch of Coronado Beach. The downtown Gaslamp Quarter and the ships at the USS Midway Museum draw visitors to the harbor. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park shows the city's early history.

The city suits trips that mix beach time with park visits and museum stops. Walkers enjoy the paths at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and the shores at Windansea Beach.

Why travelers love it

Top attractions

2 San Diego itineraries

San Diego questions

Is La Jolla Cove good for swimming?

Yes, in calm conditions it is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling, with lifeguards on duty. The water is cool for much of the year and conditions change, so check the surf first.

Is Balboa Park free?

Entry to the park is free. Tickets are needed for the zoo and museums.

Is the Botanical Building free?

Yes, entry is free.

What are the opening hours of the San Diego Zoo?

Hours change with the season. Confirm details on the official site before a visit.

Is the Hotel del Coronado open to non-guests?

Yes. Visitors can walk through the public areas, shops and restaurants, and use the public beach in front.

Is the Gaslamp Quarter safe at night?

The area has high foot traffic and regular patrols. Standard city precautions are advised after dark.