The hardest part about visiting San Diego is deciding what to see first!
If you have a family, why not plan a visit to SeaWorld San Diego? This amazing aquatic park offers dozens of attractions for children and adults alike.
Take the plunge on Journey to Atlantis, a breathtaking water coaster that turns and twists through watery tunnels before finally launching you down a steep drop - prepare to get soaked!
Then immerse yourself in the world of the Arctic on the motion-ride Wild Arctic. This amazing ride will make you feel like you're really there, with real bumps, jumps and more to add to the experience.
You can even take a scenic ride across the sky on the SeaWorld Skyride, a six minute round trip adventure that takes you across beautiful Mission Bay and back.
Kids will enjoy Shamu's Happy Harbor, where they can frolic and play among a realistic pirate ship, slides and a water maze. They can even make their own sand castle!
There are also tons of amazing shows (don't miss Shamu!), dining areas and more to help you and your family enjoy the day. It will be a trip to remember for a lifetime!
Visitors to San Diego often flock to the San Diego Wild Animal Park for the family atmosphere and exotic animals on display.
If you are looking for a family destination, the Wild Animal Park definitely has you covered. Get your kids involved and learning with the interactive Discovery Station and have them work off some steam in the Samburu Jungle Gym.
Afterwards, they can cool off underneath Palm Trees in the Savanna Cool Zone!
Of course, the park has a lot to offer anyone - not just children. Take in one of five shows the Wild Animal Park holds each day, whether it be the Elephant Show or the wildly popular Experience Africa show.
Then choose to dine at one five fabulous restaurants where you'll be able to find something for even the most finicky eaters! If all else fails you can pick up a snack from one of the many food carts sprinkled throughout the park.
At the end of the day when you've had your fill of exotic animals, tasty food and amazing shows you can stop by one of several gift shops and pick up something to remember your visit. You're sure to find something to commemorate the day!
For park prices and other information, please visit their website.
If you are looking for an exciting day of sand, surf and amusement then Belmont Park will suit your needs perfectly!
Made famous by their historic "Giant Dipper" wooden roller coaster, this sea-side amusement park offers several thrilling rides, various concession stands, shops and an indoor arcade that rivals Chuck E. Cheese ANY day.
Pal around on Bumper Cars, spin around in random circles on The Chaos or hone your surfing prowess on The Flowrider, a wave simulator unlike anything you've ever experienced before.
Now that Summer is fast approaching, you can afford to take your family out on the town - every Tuesday night is half-price night at Belmont Park! Your kids can ride all night long and you only pay half price. What a deal!
Whether you sit back and relax while eating an ice cream cone or play air hockey for hours in their large arcade, there's something for everyone at Belmont Park.
Natives of San Diego are quite familiar with the Whaley House, nestled within the heart of Old Town.
Upon first glance, the Whaley House looks like a beautiful picture of mid-nineteenth century architecture - nothing out of the ordinary about it.
The quaint exterior however hides a sinister secret from those who haven't done their research on the house.
The Whaley House is purported to be haunted.
Whether the house might be haunted or not is up for debate, but the numerous paranormal events at the Whaley House that have been documented since the 1960's might make even a skeptic wonder.
Whatever the case may be, the Whaley House is a must-see attraction if you plan to visit San Diego. With a museum and guided group tours, you and your family can see what life must have been like for people who lived during the 19th-century.
Make sure to complete your trip with a visit to the gift shop and pick up a memento to take home!
Located within the beautiful city of San Diego, Torrey Pines State Reserve offers a picturesque view of what nature has to offer.
One of the few remaining nature preserves left in San Diego that hasn't been spoiled by development, Torrey Pines State Reserve affords breathtaking views of unique plants, humongous Torrey Pine trees and amazing beaches that stretch out for miles. Additionally, the lagoon nestled in the center of the reserve serves as a comforting habitat for migrating seabirds.
If you'd like to imagine what early life was like for settlers in this area, one doesn't need to look much farther than Torrey Pines State Reserve.
Traverse the 8 miles of walking/hiking trails, explore the lagoon and beaches and take a picnic lunch to enjoy the views. For less than $10, visiting the reserve is an excellent activity for families, solo adventurers and couples looking to enjoy a romantic rendezvous for two.
Make sure to stop by the Visitor Center to ensure you are up to date and informed about the latest happenings at Torrey Pines State Reserve.
A favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, Seaport Village allows you to enjoy the best of San Diego in one place.
With over 50 fabulous shops and galleries, four award winning restaurants and numerous sidewalk food stands, you can shop, dine and snack to your hearts content.
Whether you're looking for the perfect backdrop for a romantic date or simply want to explore the sights and sounds with family or friends, Seaport Village offers entertainment that cannot be beat.
Conveniently located within Downtown San Diego, Seaport Village can easily be reached via local freeways or public transportation. Free 2-hour parking with any purchase, and thereafter parking is only $3 an hour.
Come enjoy one of San Diego's finest attractions and go home with memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether you're looking to plan a romantic date or simply enjoy the sand and surf, La Jolla Cove offers a versatile way to explore the best of San Diego.
This beautiful, small beach tucked away between sandstone cliffs affords breathtaking views of the ocean. The Cove, only a few minutes away from the city of La Jolla itself, also offers plenty of beach fun for a date or a family getaway.
If you're into picnicking, visit Grassy Scripps Park adjacent to the Cove. It provides an excellent area for an outdoor picnic, and afterwards you can attempt snorkeling or scuba diving at the Cove, favored for its excellent water visibility at deeper levels.
If you plan to take a trip out there, visit their website for driving directions. Also, keep in mind that there is no public parking lot for La Jolla Cove - plan to arrive early to find decent on-street parking, or park in one of the paid lots downtown.
Whether you're planning an intimate moonlit stroll along the shore or a family outing, La Jolla Cove offers the perfect setting for any adventure you can dream up.
If you're looking to get a glimpse of some Pacific Gray Whales, head out to Cabrillo National Monument for some great viewing opportunities.
The best time to spot the Pacific Gray Whale is during their migration season - from January through March. If you're up there during that time, take a short hike along the Bayside Trail up to the New Point Loma Lighthouse; the whale overlook is located just south of the lighthouse.
There is much more to see than just whales at Cabrillo National Monument. You can also enjoy picturesque views of the harbor, San Diego skyline, and of course - the Pacific Ocean. While you're there, head over to the Visitor Center and learn about the history behind Cabrillo. The Visitor Center at Cabrillo National Monument offers exhibits, films, and guided tours.
If you're arriving by vehicle, there is a charge of $5. Walk-ins, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are charged only $3. Your entrance fee is good for seven days so come back as often as you like.
Romance, much like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder. One person's candlelit evening can just as easily be another person's 3 hour hike.
Therefore, when you're the one in charge of setting up that romantic date, it is important to know the person you are planning for. When you're in San Diego, the romantic date ideas are as diverse as the city itself.
Romantic Dinner
If dinner in a fabulous setting is your style then consider trying the restaurant that locals have just recently voted as their city's top romantic spot. The Prado at Balboa Park has been a trump card of love since 1915. Located in the historic Hospitality Building in the heart of Balboa Park, The Prado boasts some of the most savory cuisine in town. Customers that rave suggest taking a walk around the park with your sweetie beforehand to build a healthy appetite! (Something to note: if things go well, the Prado has also been hosting wedding ceremonies and receptions since 1935).
San Diego Adventures
If adventure is your middle name and the route you plan to woo, check out some of the activities held at the world famous San Diego Zoo. You can live out your Jane and Tarzan fantasy in style. The Skyfari Aerial Tram runs from 10am to 4:15pm and gently soars over the zoo with unique views of not only the animals but the extensive botanical gardens below. Plus kids under 8 must be with adults so the chances of an ankle biter upstaging your jungle call are slim.
The Gaslamp Quarter
Perhaps you see yourself as more of an old school dater. Someone that would like to show of their knowledge of history and architecture. If that's you then bring your date some walking shoes and get yourself over to the Gaslamp Quarter. By day you can marvel at the stunning Victorian era buildings and at night you can stop by one of the many restaurants that make up the city's "liveliest neighborhood".
The Spa
Of course there are some of us whose idea of a dream date includes luxury and pampering. If that sounds more like your angle then a visit to one of the many spas in San Diego. One that gets top marks for being couple friendly is Spa Veila, which offers a wide variety of spa services.