There is no hiding our love for our California vacation destinations through the years, but San Diego has been my personal favorite. With so many things in the vast San Diego County for our family to explore, we could never get bored. In fact, I love the fact that we can keep going back to this same destination time and again and find wonderful new things to enjoy.
California Vacation Destinations In San Diego County
Almost everyone planning a Southern California vacation will at some point end up in the city of San Diego, but many don’t realize that in this sprawling city and the surrounding county there are thousands of amazing things for families to do. I’ve been vacationing in the San Diego County area since I was a young girl. Over the years, I would fly out by myself (at the age of 14) to spend part of my summer with friends. Now, being married with three boys, I bring them back to some of my favorite spots in San Diego and create new ones. Vacationing in San Diego doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, I have several ways to create a budget-friendly trip for San Diego! While I include our favorite in-city activities, I am also going to share some hidden gems around the area that will leave your family excited to explore more.
USS Midway Museum: The naval museum on the water is a fun way to spend a few hours teaching your kids about the history of San Diego as a military base.
La Jolla: A short drive from San Diego, La Jolla is one of the best beach destinations in the area. It sports great seaside restaurants and shopping, along with fantastic places for checking out tide pools and lots of sea life. It’s perfect for a day at the beach, or for a day of exploring. Plus, you will find adorable California Sea Lions basking in the warm sun (maybe they’re getting a tan). We usually grab some ice-cream (or Starbucks for me) and head down to the beach and relax. The boys spend time examining the tide pools, collection sea shells , poking around at the starfish and sea anemones. The views here are beautiful, and the salty smell of the ocean is a great way to spend a sunny afternoon. Oh and the sunsets here are absolutely spectacular!
San Diego Museum of Man: This museum located within Balboa Park is unique in itself. It is a must see for anyone visiting the area, even if you don’t venture anywhere else in the park. Go through exhibits featuring the local area changes, as well as the general history of man. Truly a breathtaking experience with occasional new exhibits to keep your mind reeling.
San Diego Zoo: If you want to see what a real zoo looks like this is the place to go. Yes, once you have gone to the San Diego Zoo, there will be nothing else out there to compare. Not only is it adjacent to the beautiful Balboa Park in downtown San Diego, but it is also world famous for the number of animals, beautiful scenery and amazing staff. This zoo is truly like no other. The San Diego Zoo is on our favorite Zoo’s and spots when vacationing in San Diego.
Balboa Park: This destination has everything you want in a park. Playground, botanical gardens, local museums, and of course fun food vendors and restaurants. Whether you take the kids to the carousel, or you walk through the artists village to buy a unique souvenir, this is a favorite destination. Psst, it’s a FREE spot. Find more FREE things to do in San Diego.
Coronado Island: For those who love a small town feel, driving across the bridge to Coronado Island is a fun adventure. There are beautiful beaches, amazing architecture, and of course many unique hot spots for food and shopping.
Sea World San Diego: Sea World is a great family destination. From the rides to the live shows there is something for every age in your family. Plan your day in the park around the various animal shows you want to take in, and you won’t be disappointed. You can read about what to do at Sea World and my favorite places at Sea World!
Mission Bay Park: A great seaside destination that features walking areas, places for kids to play, and a lush green lawn to walk or have a picnic on, Mission Bay Park is a favorite for many who visit the city.
Eat at The Mission In San Diego: One of our favorite places to stop for a meal when in San Diego is The Mission. This restaurant features amazing breakfast options, lunches, and most importantly a large variety of gluten-free meals. This is an ideal place for anyone wanting a healthier meal but also looking for indulgence. Their French Toast is simply phenomenal. If you live in the Mid-Michigan area, you may be familiar with Golden Harvest in Old Town. The Mission is comparable (I would give it a little higher rating) to Golden Harvest. This is our must-go-to Breakfast spot. However, on my last trip to San Diego, I tried Snooze (another breakfast spot). Their French Toast was Ah-mazing!! You can see some of the photos on my Instagram account.
Spreckles Organ Pavillion: While this is located inside Balboa Park, it is worth a mention by itself. The Organ Pavillion is visually a beautiful outdoor amphitheater, but even more, you have the chance each Sunday afternoon to hear live performances. A recent trip we enjoyed to Balboa Park included not only the organ itself but a group of musicians playing the bagpipe. This is one of the best things to do in San Diego.
Birch Aquarium At Scripps: Located in La Jolla, Birch Aquarium is a favorite for the kids and adults who love sea life and of course a bit of science. There are tons of things to learn, but even more hands-on experiences for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great place to visit after a morning playing in the tide pools of the beaches in La Jolla.
San Diego Fair: If your California vacation takes you to the area in June or early July, there is nothing better to do than spend time at the San Diego Fair. A month of concerts, rides, food, and exhibits make this an ideal place to spend a day on a budget. There are tons of great evening concert features, as well as local musicians playing throughout the fairgrounds. Horses, pigs, chickens, and more are on site for livestock competitions. The best part, though, is the food, and especially the booth with Dixie’s Mini Donuts. They are the ultimate choice when looking for a sweet snack.
If you are planning a California vacation with your family, keep in mind these great places to visit and enjoy time together. Amusement parks and beaches are just a part of what this wonderful state has to offer. Also, if you’re looking for a place to stay in San Diego, be sure to check out the Benefits Of Staying @ Paradise Point Resort {San Diego}. And be sure to subscribe to our blog and come back to read more great places to visit in California. This is the first post in our Summer California series. Each Thursday for the next month, I will feature another great vacation destination in California.
And while you’re waiting, you can read some of the posts already up on the blog about our California Vacations, including:
We vacationed in SoCal in 2013 and had a family budget of $3000 for five people.
How we scored free Legoland Tickets
Lois Alter Mark says
What a great list! I’ve lived in San Diego for almost 18 years and still haven’t visited The Museum of Man!
April Yap says
I want to touch a Panda with my own hands 🙂 II have to plan a visit in San Diego for this crazy thought of mine. Haha
T Worthey says
That would be an AWESOME experience!!!