Mentioned by Fodor's Choice
Sights in San Diego
"Parking is available in a lot at the foot of Tamarack or along Carlsbad Boulevard. Several trails lead down to the beach. Restrooms and outdoor showers are available."
"Sunset Cliffs Natural Park encompasses 68-acres of resource-based land that is situated along the western edge of Point Loma. Here you will find sea caves, arches, and coastal bluffs, and you’ll be privy to stunning ocean views. From the cliffs (be careful), you might be lucky enough to catch the California seasonal whale migrations and dolphins but be sure to see the sunsets."
"Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is another excellent addition to your list of things to do in San Diego. This aptly named park is the best place to watch the sunset around. Plus, there are arches, caves, and incredible coastal bluffs to hike around and view."
"Although the beach below this steep hillside waterfront park is nicknamed Garbage Beach, it is anything but. However, a visit to this beautiful spot has to be earned. The descent is so steep that a fixed rope has been installed for safety."
"A beautiful section of beach south of Torrey Pines and located in the northern part of La Jolla, this beach is known as a de facto nude beach. Popular with nudists and naturalists, this beach is one of the last nude beaches in the state. Do not venture to the south side of the beach unless you are prepared to see more than just marine life in its natural state."
"Los Peñasquitos (“little cliffs”) is a great beginners’ trail for those who want to enjoy mountain-feel views without having to hire an expedition crew. There are two approaches (east and west), and the trailheads offer a trek of either 6.5, or 5.5 miles, respectively. The terrain is gradual and level, but the trails are surrounded by the sort of views that gave the area its name: scenic rocky outcroppings, and stony formations that ripple with rubble."
"There is an extra fee to enter the Japanese Friendship Garden, which is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. There’s an upper and lower strolling path where you can see koi pond, landscaped gardens and a Zen garden viewing deck. It’s a very tranquil space."
"Feel the beauty of the waterfalls and greenery as you stroll the pathways of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Skip right past the entrance fee the third Tuesday of every month. As well, explore the Japanese rock garden and take in the current indoor display."
"The elegant Japanese Friendship Garden is also worth a visit. Grab lunch at The Prado, located within Balboa Park., and try to get a table on the outdoor terrace."
"Enjoy a day at this public park that features interactive splash fountains, beautiful gardens with distinct themes, picnic areas and a lot of playing ground and equipment for kids. Unleash the kid in you and play in the splash fountains or unique playing ground. Take a walk along the waterfront while capturing great pictures."
"Waterfront Park consists of 12-acres of lush gardens and fountains that are perfect for cooling down in the intense San Diego heat. Kids will love playing in the shallow splash areas where fountains shoot water high in the air. Bring a picnic and relax on the grassy areas while admiring the views of the bayfront."
"Located in downtown San Diego along the bay near Little Italy San Diego, Waterfront Park is perhaps best known for its interactive splash fountains and its extensive, family-friendly open spaces. Outdoor movies in the park and other free events are held here in summer. (Location: Downtown San Diego)"
"Parts of this three-mile stretch of beach located just south of Del Mar lie below beautiful bluffs and winding hiking trails. Lifeguards usually staff the north end of the beach, which is where the bathrooms and showers also sit. Nice swaths of sand mark the beach, which is a favorite with families, boogie boarders, and sunbathers."
"With dark sand and a rocky shoreline, you’ll get a great dramatic landscape to photograph at Torrey Pines State Beach!"
"On a sunny day, the rooftop of the Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant and Cantina is a delightful place to enjoy what is probably the best brunch in San Diego for anyone who loves..."
"Azucar, a bakery that also offers coffee, tea and more in Ocean Beach, is another much-loved go-to, with 4.5 stars out of 870 Yelp reviews. Head over to 4820 Newport Ave. (between Sunset Cliffs Boulevard and Cable Street) to see for yourself."
"The Blind Burro is one of the more creative and colorful places in the city. It's also one of the best places for cheap eats in San Diego. A lively spot with plenty of Mexican spec..."
"This 3,000-acre conservation area near Dixon Lake was established in 1996 to help preserve biologically unique habitats. There are six trails totaling more than 20 miles that are good for walking, biking, and horseback riding. Rangers offer tours of the Daley Ranch House and its outbuildings every second Sunday."
"Daley Ranch has everything a hiker, biker, or runner could ask for. Some trails provide excellent views of Dixon Lake. Dixon Lake will give you immediate shade and a shoreline trail."
"This hike will take you through unique rock structures, and at the end, you can enjoy the sunset from the beach (a sometimes nude one). Don’t forget to check out the Mushroom House too while you’re there. More: Photo Guide to Hiking the Ho Chi Minh Trail"
"Listed in "Gourmet" magazine as one of America's greatest hometown cafes, this local favorite has been around since 1944. Serves up such hearty breakfasts as smoked pork chops and eggs, eggs Benedict, French toast, pancakes, waffles, and much more. All their baked goods are packaged to go, so you can easily take something along with you for later in the day."
"A pure dose of dining nostalgia, this San Diego landmark has been serving up generous portions of classic American comfort food since the mid-1940s. With an expansive menu, dishes like the homemade roast beef hash and traditional eggs Benedict have kept customers coming back for more."
"Hob Nob Hill, known for their breakfast, has been serving up American eats since 1944. Don't forget to check out their selection of fresh bakery items while you're there."