With plenty to do, it’s no surprise that San Diego is visited by 34 million people every year. Known for good weather most of the year round, it’s a relaxing and exhilarating place. One of the best things about the area is that everything is relatively close by so there’s not much need to travel extensively.
Visit Torrey Pines for spectacular views and go hiking for fabulous scenery. The hike starts by walking uphill and on the decline, there’s a wonderful sandy beach as a reward. Once there, indulge in some kayaking, surfing, jet-skiing or simply take a boat to travel slightly further.
As the area usually enjoys excellent weather, why not take in a romantic movie under the stars? Most of the outdoor cinema’s movies are those old classics and comfort is definitely on the menu, with reclining chairs, blankets and pillows.
One of the most fashionable areas of San Diego is La Jolla, known for its excellent selection of boutiques, equally good cafes and eateries. It’s one of those places to enjoy people-watching and kick back and relax. It’s also the ideal place for brunch with friends, especially at Cody’s for a blueberry spritzer and as it’s set by the beach, it couldn’t be more perfect for a day out. Do go to the cove which has postcard style scenery.
Go to Balboa Park which is the center of culture in San Diego and visit the museums and gardens which make up the 1,200 acre area. This is where to take in some of the military exhibits and maritime heritage in the two interactive museums. The California Building and House of Hospitality are worth seeing if just for their Spanish renaissance architecture. Also inside the park is the Botanical Building which is one of the largest lath structures in the world and features over 2,100 permanent plants, orchids and tropical flowers. There’s a rose garden, Japanese garden, cactus garden and palm tree canyon to admire.
For children, San Diego Zoo is well-regarded and is situated downtown. It boasts 1100 acres and is one of the most famous zoos in the USA. It has one of the biggest collections of rare and endangered animals in the world. Expect to see giraffes, elephants, giant pandas, polar bears and koalas.
San Diego is a military area and there are lots of bases within the city especially around San Diego Bay. Go and see the USS Midway which offers an insider’s look into what goes on and has 60 different exhibits and 29 restored aircraft including some flown in World War 2.
Of course, shoppers will be in paradise with a huge array of fantastic shopping areas to explore, from La Jolla to La Mesa, Coronado, Encinitas and Solana Beach. All have a number of well-known designer boutiques to peruse as well as the old favorite high street brands.
One of the best ways to enjoy San Diego is by air, on-board on of the Bolt Jets airplanes where visitors can gaze down in awe at the sun-soaked city that is so popular.
