Discover San Diego: where sun, surf, and culture converge

Welcome to San Diego, the gem of Southern California, renowned for its stunning beaches, expansive parks, and delightful year-round warm climate.

With an impressive 250+ days of sunshine annually and temperatures averaging a perfect 70°F, it’s no wonder San Diego ranks among the top five sunniest cities in the state. As California’s second-largest city and the eighth largest in the United States, San Diego boasts a population of over 1.3 million residents on the picturesque Pacific Ocean coast, right along the Mexico–United States border.

Historically home to the Kumeyaay Native Americans, San Diego, often called the Birthplace of California, was the first site visited and settled by Europeans on the West Coast. The city’s rich Spanish and Mexican heritage, uniquely blending American and Mexican cultures, creates a vibrant community offering a rich history, intriguing and inspiring you to explore.

San Diego Proud

San Diego boasts a thriving LGBTQ+ community celebrated for its diversity and inclusivity. From the bustling Gaslamp District to the vibrant Hillcrest gayborhood, the city offers a welcoming atmosphere for all. Known for its openness and hospitality, San Diego hosts numerous LGBTQ+ events and activities throughout the year, making it a hub of celebration and community.

The U.S. Navy is the city’s largest employer, contributing significantly to its economy and providing frequent eye candy sightings. San Diego’s diverse attractions feature the historic Giant Dipper, a wooden roller coaster at Belmont Park in Mission Beach listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, the city is a haven for skateboarders, home to legends Shaun White and Tony Hawk. San Diego also gave the world WD-40, invented here by the Rocket Chemical Company in 1953, ensuring doors worldwide swing smoothly and free of squeaks.

Getting there

San Diego International Airport (SAN), the busiest single-runway airport in the United States, is beautifully situated on the picturesque San Diego Bay and just minutes from downtown. The convenient location and manageable size make arrivals and departures a breeze. While it is not a hub, all major U.S. airlines operate here, providing nonstop service to more than 80 destinations. A few direct flights are available for international travelers, including nonstop service to and from London, Tokyo, Vancouver, and Munich. This ease of access ensures a stress-free start and end to your San Diego adventure.

Where to stay – Palihotel San Diego

Located in the heart of downtown, Palihotel San Diego offers a distinctive boutique hotel experience with its unique and stylish design. The hotel blends modern amenities with personalized services, providing comfortable and well-appointed accommodations. Each room features modern conveniences like bedside sockets and USB ports. And while the hotel lacks a pool, it compensates with preppy decor and walking distance to great bars, restaurants, and local attractions.

Palihotel San Diego, reimagined from the historic Hotel St. James built in 1912, is located in the historic Gaslamp Quarter. The hotel boasts 122 guest rooms with a youthful, nautical-inspired charm, a new restaurant, and a guest-exclusive roof deck open Thursday to Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m., serving light bites, drinks, and some of the best city views. The inviting rooms include custom-designed furniture, Bellino fine linens, Diptyque bath amenities, plush robes, and Nespresso coffee machines. Additional amenities feature a SMEG mini-fridge, a fully stocked minibar with tasty snacks, a laptop-compatible safe, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Where to stay – Palihotel San Diego

Saint James French Diner, located just off the lobby, blends the approachable nature of an American diner with the elegance of a French bistro, offering breakfast, lunch, happy hour, dinner, and weekend brunch.

With a prime location, Palihotel San Diego is perfect for discovering the city, attending local conventions, or enjoying events at nearby attractions like Petco Park and The Shell.

Where to stay – The Lafayette Hotel and Club

A longstanding symbol of San Diego's history, The LaFayette Hotel & Club, located in the city’s North Park neighborhood, was built in 1946 by entrepreneur Larry Imig as a sanctuary for Hollywood stars like Ava Gardner, Lana Turner, Frank Sinatra, and Bob Hope. Recently, the hotel underwent its first comprehensive restoration, completed in 2023. This renovation introduced five new food and beverage outlets, updated all rooms, and restored the signature Olympic-sized swimming pool that remains the property's focal point. Renowned music producer Swizz Beats curated the hotel's soundtrack, which plays on a custom-built speaker system by Devon Turnbull, ensuring you'll be reaching for your phone to Shazam the tunes throughout your stay. The hotel’s aesthetic captures its glamorous past while incorporating modern craftsmanship within its eclectic spaces.

Where to stay – The Lafayette Hotel and Club

The lobby’s decor is meticulously designed, sparing no detail, and is a perfect place to relax or work from. The hotel offers various amenities, including a bowling alley open until 2 a.m., a sauna, and a gym. Quixote, the hotel’s Oaxacan-inspired candlelit restaurant, features repurposed furniture from an older decommissioned Catholic church in Mexico, creating an intimate ambiance with its light and dark altar places. The unique space showcases dark wood paneling, rough cobblestones, flickering Santa Maria candles, rich stained glass windows, and baroque pews and banquettes surrounding the pulpit-inspired bar. Cocktails here are exquisite!

Where to eat and drink – Bivouac Ciderworks

Located in North Park, Bivouac Ciderworks offers an outdoor-inspired taproom and restaurant experience like no other. With 24 rotating taps, you can savor core cider styles, small-batch favorites, and experimental flavors. All this is complemented by a full-service restaurant serving San Diego comfort food, including flights of tacos, burgers, and sandwiches.

Open Tuesday through Sunday, Bivouac Ciderworks is the perfect spot for a casual cider tasting or a delicious meal. The venue features fun decor, including a table with a swing seat that evokes the feeling of sipping cider on your home porch.

Designed with dietary restrictions in mind, the menu at Bivouac Ciderworks includes gluten-free and vegan options. However, the true highlight is their exceptional cider. Crafted from premium English Dabinett cider apples and Washington fruits, Bivouac’s cider is renowned as the official cider of San Diego. With less sugar than other ciders and beers, it provides a refreshing and health-conscious choice, perfect for those hot San Diego days.

Next door, you’ll find an ultra-exclusive speakeasy that’s so cool and secretive that getting in is nearly impossible!

Where to eat and drink – Herb & Wood

Herb & Wood in Little Italy offers an inviting blend of bold, passionate flavors and a welcoming atmosphere. Funky artwork adorns the walls, creating a chic, vibrant space perfect for groups or solo diners. The restaurant’s good music and moody lighting set the stage for an intimate dining experience, while the open kitchen allows guests to witness the culinary magic unfold. Executive Chef Carlos Anthony brings renewed energy and inspiration to Herb & Wood, crafting dishes with meticulous care and intention. With nearly eight years as a local favorite, the restaurant has become a gathering place for locals and travelers. Chef Carlos, who credits his grandmother for his culinary foundation, ensures every dish – from inspiration to plating – is created with forethought and precision, reflecting his dedication to the guest experience. Their homemade pasta is a highlight, and for a unique drink try the Mezcal & Banana cocktail, a refreshing blend of banana liqueur, orgeat, velvet falernum, lime, and chocolate bitters.

Where to eat and drink – Mothership

Mothership is a space-themed restaurant that must be experienced to be fully understood. With its interactive vibes, neon lighting, and fun, descriptive menu, this place offers a truly trippy atmosphere. The space theme is evident throughout, even in the bathrooms, referred to as lavatories, which are both interactive and visually appealing. The music is top-notch, and the friendly staff enhances the overall experience.

Rum-focused cocktails have playful names like Astro Zombie, Saturn, and Truth Serum, and delicious mocktails are also available. Culinary highlights include the chips with warmed white bean dip and the fantastic potato dish, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside!

Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity among locals and visitors, but they do accept walk-ins.

Where to eat and drink – Cloak & Petal

Step into Cloak & Petal, where intimacy and companionship blend seamlessly in a setting inspired by the Japanese tradition of Hanami. This restaurant, named to evoke secrecy and blooming beauty, offers an unmatched dining experience. The mystically transformed lounge, with its trellis of draping vines and teardrop lights, creates the perfect backdrop for savoring authentic Japanese sushi, appetizers, small plates, and drinks.

The menu boasts must-try dishes like spicy garlic noodles and an eclectic variety of sushi and sashimi, from traditional Japanese to modern creations. For cocktails, the Bikini Bottom offers a delightful lychee and pineapple kick, while the Cin-Fu provides a margarita-inspired twist. Enjoy old-school rap on the soundtrack and graffiti art installations on the walls while the bar, flanked by faux-cherry trees in full bloom, adds to the Instagram-worthy ambiance.

Perfect for a romantic date or a fun night out with friends, Cloak & Petal is a local favorite and one of the best sushi spots in San Diego.

Where to eat and drink – Morning Glory

Nestled in the heart of Little Italy overlooking the Piazza della Famiglia, Morning Glory turns brunch into an extravagant affair. Designed by Paul Basile, this 1980s-inspired spot features muted greens, pops of pink, smooth walnut finishes, sky-high geometric bi-fold windows, and a massive pink starburst lighting installation. Despite its glamorous design, Morning Glory retains a sense of humor with playful menu items like the avocado toast whimsically named “Millennial Tears.” The menu goes beyond typical brunch fare, offering Breakfast Carbonara, Morning Glory Fried Rice, and soft scrambled eggs topped with caviar. They also accommodate various dietary preferences, offering vegan alternatives for many dishes. Don’t miss the London Fog Latte, an Earl Grey tea with your choice of milk and a hint of vanilla, perfect for pairing with their flavorful offerings. The open kitchen concept and a champagne vending machine add to the fun, while the perfect blend of indoor and outdoor seating ensures comfort whether you seek the sun or air conditioning. Morning Glory is open daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the friendly staff and vibrant ambiance make it a must-visit brunch destination while in town.

Where to eat and drink – Fig Tree Café

Since its first location opened in Pacific Beach in 2008, Fig Tree Café has expanded to include outposts in Liberty Station, East Village, and Mission Valley. Each café is uniquely designed to reflect the character of its neighborhood. At the same time, all are committed to using fresh, local ingredients sourced from a family farm in Ramona and giving back to their communities.

Fig Tree Café’s menu offers a delicious exploration of California’s culinary culture, featuring an array of authentic and mouthwatering dishes at reasonable prices. Highlights include breakfast sushi, burritos, omelets, pancakes, French toast, and sandwiches. Their beverage selection is equally impressive, with the Spicy Strawberry Margarita being a standout choice. Vegan diners will be pleased to know that their Bloody Mary mix is completely cruelty-free.

Where to eat and drink – San Diego’s Gay Bars

While gay bars are sadly becoming increasingly rare, San Diego still boasts about a dozen vibrant spots where the LGBTQ+ community can gather and celebrate.

In Hillcrest, The Loft is a friendly neighborhood bar known for its laid-back atmosphere, strong drinks, and welcoming vibe.

For a lively women’s bar, head to Gossip Grill, a staple in the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene with vibrant parties and events.

Red Wing in North Park offers a great LGBTQ-friendly bar experience with popular karaoke nights.

Lastly, The San Diego Eagle, the city’s only leather bar, is perfect for those looking to unwind and let their hair down.

Where to eat and drink – Caffeine Fix

San Diego offers a diverse, vibrant coffee scene perfect for your caffeine fix. Craft Cafe at Mingei in Balboa Park is a delightful option with gluten-free and vegan snacks. In North Park, Communal Coffee combines coffee and flowers, creating an inviting atmosphere ideal for relaxing, working, or meeting friends and very popular with the LGBTQ+ community. Spill the Beans, located in the Gaslamp District and Seaport Village, serves scratch-made bagels topped with artisan-compounded butter or house-made cream cheeses, including vegan options. Bird Rock Coffee Roasters, with locations in Torrey Pines, La Jolla, and Little Italy, offers a perfect respite while sightseeing. Lestat’s Coffee House, an iconic 24/7 coffee shop known for its eclectic decor and live music, is a popular hangout for artists, creatives, and the local LGBTQ+ scene. Other highly recommended spots include Parakeet Cafe in Little Italy, Caffe Calabria and LoveSong in North Park, and bica in Normal Heights.

Where to eat and drink – Pass the Za

Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned connoisseur, San Diego offers a variety of friendly spots to explore. Keep in mind that marijuana cannot be consumed in public, in any public place, or in any location where smoking tobacco is prohibited.

For a great selection of flower, vapes, concentrates, edibles, pre-rolls, and CBD, head to March and Ash or THC The Healing Center in Mission Valley. Both shops are open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., providing a welcoming environment and knowledgeable staff to guide your cannabis journey.

What to do – explore San Diego’s landmarks

San Diego has numerous landmarks offering breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.

Torrey Pines is a popular destination for hiking and walking, with trails like Broken Hill, Razor Point, and Beach Trails offering stunning views. Keep in mind that these trails may be closed during or after recent rainfall to prevent soil erosion.

For a perfect Instagram shot, visit the Greetings from San Diego mural located at 4225 30th St, created by the team behind Greetings Mural.

Balboa Park, an iconic landmark spanning 1,200 acres, is a beautiful green space with multiple museums and gardens dotted throughout, making it ideal for leisurely walks and cultural exploration. Balboa Park often hosts LGBTQ+ events throughout the year, including Pride celebrations, and features attractions such as the San Diego Museum of Art, the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum, and the USS Midway Museum.

And for some seaside fun, don't miss Belmont Park, a historic amusement park perfect for all ages. Enjoy thrilling activities like the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, mini golf, ziplining, and a rock-climbing wall.

What to do – take a whale watching tour

Experience the awe-inspiring migration of whales with Whale Watching San Diego. From November/December to April, witness the majestic gray whales as they migrate toward Baja California. In the summer months of June through September, catch sight of the magnificent blue whales, the largest animals on earth, as they pass through San Diego’s offshore waters on their way to North Pacific feeding grounds. Their three-hour Whale Watch tours offer an unforgettable opportunity to see these gentle giants up close. Alongside whales, you’ll also have the chance to spot various dolphin and porpoise species, sea lions, and a variety of birds. Every tour is led by a knowledgeable captain and crew who can answer questions, point out wildlife, and highlight other points of interest. Tours are conducted on the Legacy, a modern, well-equipped 80-foot fiberglass boat with two decks and ample seating. With windows throughout both decks, the Legacy offers great views and the convenience of covered indoor seating for over 100 passengers. The boat also features outside seating on the bow and an elevated upper deck. To enhance your experience, the Legacy is equipped with a well-stocked bar offering snacks and beverages, as well as three full-sized bathrooms.

What to do – shop ‘til you drop

Seaport Village is a vibrant, harbor-side hub perfect for a day of shopping and exploration. This 14-acre waterfront complex features over 60 unique shops and retailers, as well as art galleries and cafes. Enjoy bay-view dining at restaurants like the farm-to-table collective Malibu Farm, and don’t miss the historic, hand-carved carousel for a touch of nostalgia.

What to do – museums for every taste

San Diego offers a diverse range of museums that cater to audiences of all ages and interests. The African Diaspora Museum & Research Center, located in the heart of San Diego’s historic Old Town, presents over 6,000 years of African World History and is conveniently situated near the Trolley station. For art enthusiasts, the San Diego Museum of Art in Balboa Park boasts an impressive collection with a particular emphasis on Spanish art. Aviation and space exploration buffs will find the San Diego Air & Space Museum fascinating. There’s even a Comic-Con Museum that celebrates comics, film, television, cosplay, video games, anime, and other popular arts, bringing together diverse audiences for shared, vibrant experiences.

What to do – let’s go to the beach

With over 70 miles of pristine coastline along the Pacific Ocean, it’s no wonder San Diego is one of the world’s most popular destinations for surf, sand, and sun.

La Jolla Shores is a family favorite, offering a long stretch of beach perfect for relaxing, playing, and building sandcastles, all with postcard-perfect views.

For those seeking a more secluded experience, Black’s Beach ranks high as one of the top clothing-optional beaches in the country. Nestled beneath La Jolla’s tall oceanside bluffs of Torrey Pines, it offers silence, solitude, and stunning ocean views.

Sunset Cliffs near Point Loma is aptly named for its breathtaking views at dusk. This serene park is a tranquil spot where you can hear the ocean waves crashing against the cliffs, making it an ideal location for a peaceful escape and unforgettable sunsets.

What to do – take a street tour

Discover the vibrant city streets with San Diego Street Tours (SDST), a young, locally owned tour operator. SDST’s mission is to provide engaging and alternative experiences, revealing that streets are more than just paint and concrete—they’re history lessons, reflections of the community, and catalysts for meaningful conversation.

Offering a variety of tours that cater to all interests, SDST brings the city’s unique culture to life. Join their 2.5-hour vegan food tour in North Park or Downtown, where you can indulge in curated plant-based cuisine from local restaurants. Ben, the founder, is a local vegan who has personally tried and tested all the vegan spots in San Diego (currently more than 50), selecting only the best for his tours. Enjoy delicious vegan dishes while taking in beautiful marina views, learning the seedy backstory of The Gaslamp Quarter, and exploring the hidden gems of the bustling East Village. Alternatively, get a taste of the hip North Park neighborhood, known for its food, drinks, and art scene.

All food is included in the ticket price, and everyone is welcome—whether you're vegan or not. In addition to food tours, SDST also offers street art and history tours.

What to do – San Diego’s Sporting Arenas

San Diego boasts a variety of sporting arenas that cater to fans of all kinds. Petco Park, located in the heart of downtown, is home to the San Diego Padres and is renowned for its stunning views. SnapDragon Stadium, a relatively new venue, hosts San Diego Wave Soccer, along with other major sporting events. Additionally, Pechanga Arena hosts hockey and basketball games and a range of entertainment events.

What to do – major Annual Events

San Diego Restaurant Week (January & September): This culinary event kicks off the New Year with 180 participating restaurants across the city, offering special prix-fixe menus. The event returns in September, giving food enthusiasts another chance to indulge in San Diego's diverse and delectable dining options.

Comic-Con International (July): Every July, San Diego transforms into a pop culture mecca with Comic-Con, the largest event of its kind in the United States. Thousands of artists, celebrities, and fans gather to celebrate comic books, movie memorabilia, and all things related to pop culture. Tickets sell out quickly, making it a must-attend summer event.

San Diego Pride (July): Held in July, San Diego Pride is a joyous celebration of the LGBTQ+ community centered in the historic Hillcrest neighborhood. The event features a popular parade, vibrant festival, live music, and various activities, drawing thousands of participants and spectators.

Miramar Air Show (September): Every September, the skies above San Diego are filled with thrilling aerobatic displays during the Miramar Air Show. Hosted by Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, this three-day event features performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, ground entertainment, simulation rides, and a variety of food and beverages. It’s the largest military air show in the U.S.

San Diego International Film Festival (October): Held in October, the multi-day Festival celebrates the power of film with screenings, parties, networking events, and celebrity appearances.

San Diego’s annual events offer something for everyone, making it a year-round destination for cultural enthusiasts, foodies, and thrill-seekers. Be sure to check local listings for the most up-to-date event information.

Other important information

Public Transportation & Ride Share Apps: San Diego has a network of public transportation options, including buses, trolleys, and trains. The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates the buses and trolleys, while the North County Transit District (NCTD) runs the Coaster commuter train. Popular ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used and offer convenient alternatives to traditional taxis and public transport.

Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary and appreciated throughout the United States. If a service charge isn't already included, a tip of 20% of the bill is standard for good service in restaurants. In bars, leaving $1-2 per drink is common.

Alcohol Consumption: The legal age for alcohol consumption in California is 21.

Cannabis Consumption: While recreational cannabis use is legal in California for adults aged 21 and over, consumption is restricted to private properties. It is illegal to consume cannabis in public places, including parks and beaches.

Water Consumption: Tap water in San Diego is generally safe to drink.

Clothing and Weather: San Diego enjoys mild weather year-round, but it's wise to pack layers as temperatures can vary throughout the day. A light jacket or sweater is useful for cooler mornings and evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city. While temperatures are mild in winter, having a warmer layer and an umbrella for occasional rain is recommended.

SPF: For optimal sun protection, use a high-quality sunscreen like Kinfield's Daily Dew SPF 35. This sport-ready, 100% mineral, broad-spectrum SPF blends seamlessly into your skin, providing hydration and protection without streaking or melting, even on the hottest Californian days. Plus, it smells like a vacation! Pair it with Golden Hour™ mosquito repellent, which uses a unique strain of Indonesian citronella to keep bugs at bay naturally while also smelling delightful.

Visiting Mexico: As it's only a short drive or trolley ride to the border, visiting Tijuana makes for a convenient day trip from San Diego. If you plan to go, ensure you have proper identification, such as a passport, and be aware of border crossing times and regulations.