4 Great Experiences in Sunny San Diego

[rohny jones]

If you love the sun and spending relaxing time on the beach, San Diego is a perfect getaway! This southern California city of three million offers a fantastic, sundrenched mix of history, nature, nightlife, dining, and a slew of great attractions - and following are four of them. (And keep in mind that you can best maximize your experience by renting a car at the airport!)


Gaslamp Quarter

This 16-square-block district is popular because it preserves its 19th-century Victorian architecture, now home to a variety of art galleries, shops, restaurants, theaters, bars, and clubs - making it San Diego's most popular nightlife area. It also hosts most of SD's most popular annual events, including Mardi Gras, Comic-Con, and Gay Pride.

San Diego Zoo

The most visited zoo in the USA - as well as one of its largest and best zoos - sits on 99 acres of Balboa Park and is home to more than 3,700 animals of more than 650 species. Various trails and habitats include the Monkey Trail, Polar Bear Plunge, Elephant Odyssey, and more. Also check out the 4D movie theater, the daily animal shows, and the animal encounter programs.

Coronado Beach

Don't miss the quintessential local beach experience, with a mile and a half of gorgeous sands against a backdrop of grand manses along Ocean Boulevard and of course the iconic, Victoria-era  Hotel de Coronado. It's a family favorite, and there are also sand volleyball courts and other amenities.

Sunset Cliffs

Hop in your rental car and drive north to this amazing neighborhood and 68-acre nature park in the San Diego community of Point Loma. There are great walking trails and nice swimming beaches at the base of the eponymous cliffs (be careful when making your way up and down, as there have been injuries and even deaths from falling). It's all especially spectacular at sunset - hence the name, of course. (Just keep in mind there are no toilet facilities here.)

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