9 Best Tours and Day Trips in San Diego

If you plan to visit San Diego you will find yourself in one of the most important cities in California and also one of the epicenters of the West Coast of the United States. Besides being a cultural beacon, and offering beautiful beaches and warm weather during most of the year, in this city you will also find some of the best tours and excursions.

Some of the best things to do in San Diego include taking a whale watching tour, discovering the Gaslamp District on a food tour, participating in a sunset tour of the city from the bay, joining a tour to discover the night lights, and seeing Balboa Park on a guided tour.

San Diego, with its mile-long coastline and marine biodiversity, offers nature lovers the opportunity to participate in whale watching tours. This sea voyage will not only allow you to escape from the daily routine, but will also immerse you in the world of the whales that migrate along the West Coast of the United States.

As the boat moves away from the port of San Diego, you will notice the salty breeze and the radiant sun that bathes the waters of the Pacific. On these excursions, the guide will usually share with you fascinating information about the species of whales you will see.

The majesty of these marine giants will leave everyone on board breathless. Whether it's the dazzling spectacle of a humpback whale leaping completely out of the water or the calm glide of a gray whale near the surface, every moment is unique and unforgettable on this tour, which is often considered among the best cruise excursions in San Diego.

The whale watching tour is not only an experience to remember, but also raises awareness of the importance of preserving these marine ecosystems and the magnificent creatures that inhabit them. These tours offer a window into a marine world that deserves to be protected for future generations, and also happens to be one of the best activities to do with kids in San Diego.

Details of Interest

• Price: about 77 euros per person.
• Duration: approximately 4 hours.

San Diego's vibrant Gaslamp district is not only famous for its historic architecture and lively nightlife, but also for being a culinary paradise that awakens the senses of foodies.

Walking the cobblestone streets of the Gaslamp Quarter will immerse you in an eclectic mix of cultures and cooking styles. From cozy family restaurants to elegant gourmet establishments, every corner reveals a new gastronomic surprise.

One of the Gaslamp's culinary gems is its fresh seafood offerings. The aromas of sea and salt mingle in the air as diners enjoy dishes prepared with catch of the day, immersing you in San Diego's best food tours From crabs to oysters, you'll be treated to authentic culinary masterpieces.

Gaslamp food tours also offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the area. Many restaurants are located in carefully preserved historic buildings, adding a special ambiance to the experience.

Details of Interest

• Price: approximately 74 euros per person.
• Duration: about 2.5 hours.

One of the best alternatives to discover San Diego's historic downtown is to take a tour on the tourist trolley. With 11 strategically located stops, this tour allows you to explore the city's cultural and architectural treasures at your own pace.

From historic Santa Fe Station to the iconic buildings of the Gaslamp Quarter, this tour will take you through the heart of the historic district and surrounding neighborhoods. During the itinerary you will have the flexibility to hop on and off as many times as you wish throughout the trip, allowing you to fully explore the places that interest you most.

This option will also be ideal if you are planning a short stay in San Diego, as it will allow you to visit several sites in a tour of approximately 2 hours, which is the time it takes the tourist streetcar to go through all the stops. If that is your case, here is a list of activities you can do to discover San Diego in 3 days.

Whether you want to spend time in a museum, enjoy the local cuisine or just stroll through the cobblestone streets, this streetcar tour offers an adaptable experience. From the tranquility of the botanical gardens to the palpable energy of the art scene, each stop will reveal a new dimension of San Diego.

Details of Interest

• Price: approximately 47 euros per person.
• Duration: the tour of the 11 stops takes about 2 hours.

A night tour of San Diego's lights is an enchanting journey that reveals a completely different side of this coastal city. As the sun sets and the sky is tinged with deep hues, the lights of this destination come to life, creating a magical atmosphere that invites you to explore its most picturesque corners.

The adventure begins in the iconic bay, where the lights of the boats and the coastline dance on the water. The bay provides the perfect setting for a dinner cruise, allowing visitors to enjoy a delicious meal while watching the city sparkle in the distance. During the bus tour you can also discover San Diego's best beaches and nighttime roar from the bay.

Afterwards, the tour can take explorers to the vibrant neighborhoods of downtown. The Gaslamp Quarter, with its historic buildings and lively nightlife, comes alive under neon lights and illuminated facades. Restaurants, bars and clubs in this neighborhood offer everything from fine dining to live entertainment.

During these tours you will usually also catch a glimpse of the Freedom Tower, which is majestically illuminated at night. This iconic structure stands as a beacon of hope and freedom, and its nighttime illumination creates a spectacular sight not to be missed. In addition, the walk along the Embarcadero offers the opportunity to see monuments and statues come to life in the moonlight, along with panoramic views of the skyline.

Details of Interest

• Price: about 37 euros per person.
• Duration: about 1 hour and a half.

San Diego, known for its coastal beauty and laid-back atmosphere, is also home to otherworldly stories waiting in the shadows. The ghost and tombstone tour, usually included in the San Diego Explorer Pass, is an experience that will immerse you in the dark and mysterious corners of the city.

These tours will usually take you through historic cemeteries, where tombstones tell stories of past lives and the passing of time. Amidst the shadows and dim lantern light, the tombs of notables and unknowns reveal secrets that have endured through the years.

As you make your way through the cobblestone streets and shadowy alleys, you will hear stories of ghost sightings and unexplained apparitions. Places that seem normal during the day come alive with tales of supernatural occurrences that have left their mark on the city. From ancient haunted buildings to legends of historical figures who continue to roam the afterlife, every corner has a fascinating story to tell.

This tour is not only for lovers of the paranormal, but also for those who wish to discover an unknown side of San Diego. Through thrilling narratives and visits to enigmatic locations, the ghost and tombstone tour allows participants to explore the city from a unique and evocative perspective, making it also one of the best things to do at night in San Diego.

Details of Interest

• Price: from 37 euros per person.
• Duration: 1 hour and 15 minutes approximately.

Balboa Park in San Diego is an oasis of beauty and culture that invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world of natural wonders and cultural attractions. A guided tour of this iconic park offers an opportunity to explore its diversity in one tour. From lush gardens to some of San Diego's finest museums, every corner of the park tells a unique story that reflects the city's vibrant cultural scene.

The journey begins in the heart of the park, where expert guides will lead you through botanical gardens showcasing a variety of exotic and native plants. From the majestic Japanese Garden to the colorful Rose Garden, each corner offers a unique sensory experience.

The guided tour can also lead you to discover the park's cultural offerings. Known as the home of numerous museums, Balboa Park is home to renowned institutions ranging from art to natural history. During the tour, participants can immerse themselves in collections of classical art, modern science and local history, gaining a full understanding of the cultural and educational diversity the park has to offer.

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the San Diego Zoo, located within the park. There you will observe animals from around the world in habitats that mimic their natural environments. Guides will share information about species conservation and efforts to preserve biodiversity, providing an educational and moving experience.

Details of Interest

• Price: about 42 euros per person.
• Duration: about 2 hours tour.

A sunset yacht tour of San Diego Bay is an experience that fuses natural beauty with the charm of this iconic coastal city. As the sun begins its slow descent over the horizon, you will have the opportunity to witness a spectacle of changing colors that paint the sky and water in shades of gold, orange and pink.

Aboard a boat specially designed to take full advantage of the panoramic views, you will embark on a calm and serene journey across the bay. In addition, the moments leading up to sunset become a palette of colors reflected in the water and after sunset you will experience one of San Diego's best nighttime experiences.

During sunset the bay is transformed into a scene of serenity and wonder. The golden sparkle on the water contrasts with the darkening sky, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates the senses. These tours are a treat for the eyes and offer a moment of tranquility and reflection as you watch nature and the urban environment merge.

Sunset tours from San Diego Bay are a unique way to experience the city from a completely different perspective. Plus, if you plan to visit San Diego in October or during the fall months, you can combine these views of the skyline with the colors of the surrounding vegetation.

Details of Interest

• Price: approximately 122 euros per person.
• Duration: about 2 hours and a half.

Just a short drive from San Diego, crossing the border into Tijuana is an experience that allows you to experience the culture, cuisine and history of Mexico in a single day. This vibrant city offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with colorful markets, urban art and a culinary scene that has gained international recognition.

One of the most emblematic spots is Avenida Revolucion, the heart of the city, where you will find craft stores, art galleries and restaurants with authentic tacos and fresh seafood. In addition, many tours include visits to Plaza Santa Cecilia, one of the oldest areas of Tijuana, where mariachi music and the warmth of its people immerse you in the Mexican essence.

It is also common for these tours to stop at a winery on the Baja California Wine Route, where you can taste some of the best wines of the region. Without a doubt, an excursion to Tijuana is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a change of scenery and explore the culture of the border.

Details of Interest

• Price: approximately 80 euros per person.
• Duration: between 5 and 6 hours.

Located north of San Diego, La Jolla is a must-see destination for those seeking spectacular scenery and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. This picturesque coastal area is famous for its cliffs, golden beaches and a vibrant community full of art, dining and outdoor activities.

One of the main attractions is La Jolla Cove, a protected cove where sea lions can be seen resting on the rocks. In addition, the area is ideal for snorkeling, kayaking or paddleboarding, as its crystal-clear waters allow you to explore the rich marine life of the region.

Excursions to La Jolla often include a visit to the Birch Aquarium, a marine center that offers interactive exhibits about ocean life, as well as a tour of the Coastal Walk Trail, a scenic path that skirts the cliffs and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It is a perfect choice for nature and ocean lovers.

Details of Interest

• Price: approximately 65 euros per person.
• Duration: between 4 and 5 hours.

You can choose to book a tour or excursion in San Diego in advance online or hire them once you are in the city, although as the rates are dynamic and during the high season the places on the tours are usually sold out, I advise you to hire the services before your visit.

If you plan to visit San Diego in the summer, which is part of the region's high season, the best alternative is to book in advance to save your place on the tours and to organize an itinerary for your visit. In addition, this alternative will allow you to save time and money, since you will freeze the price of your booking.

In these tours and excursions you will discover the different profiles of the city. From the cultural side of San Diego as one of the main cities of the West Coast of the United States to its natural profile, in Balboa Park, whale watching tours and beach tours, you will have an overview of the best attractions of San Diego.

In addition, you will also be able to live interesting and alternative experiences, such as the ghost and tombstone tours or the sunset tours, which will allow you to see the city's skyline from the bay. This will be ideal if you plan to visit San Diego during the winter or during the months when beach visits are more limited due to the weather.

If you plan to visit San Diego in the summer or during the high season months, I advise you to book tours and excursions in advance to save time and money, and also to secure your spot on the tours you choose, which will also allow you to organize a suitable itinerary for your trip. You can also combine some tours to save money on transfers between each of the excursions.

In addition, I also advise you to choose some of the alternative experiences that San Diego offers, such as ghost and tombstone tours and excursions, as it is a city with many secrets and subway stories that you will love to discover.

Whether you plan to visit San Diego in 3 days or even less time, the best alternative to get to know the city is on a guided tour and excursion, since it is a destination with many attractions and also with many secrets and alternative sites worth discovering. In addition, this will allow you to get the most out of your visit, and save time and money.

On the other hand, if you opt for a tour or a guided excursion you will be able to delegate the responsibility, travel in a more relaxed way and not worry about the organization, transportation or discover the details of the sites you are visiting.