The Very Best Places to Visit In San Diego

San Diego California is one of my all time favorite vacation spots. As a born and raised Kansas girl, seeing the ocean and feeling the constant sunshine on my skin is a welcomed and relaxing affair. Below are my The Very Best Places to Visit In San Diego. I highly recommend taking the time to see each of them next time you are in the area! 

meeting a dolphin

1. Sea World

The photo below captures the moment I met a dolphin for the first time, something I’d been dreaming of since the day I came out of the womb. It was glorious. My wedding was just days before this photo was taken, and I still consider it the happiest moment of my life. Sea World for the win! Of all The Very Best Places to Visit In San Diego, this will forever be my favorite. 

Caroline's seaside cafe

2. Caroline’s Seaside Cafe

Get ready to have the best breakfast of your life with the most brilliant view. Bring a book or a group of friends and soak up the sun and sound of the waves. If you are from a state like Kansas it is so interesting to watch the students run from surfing to class and back. What a life! 

Pro Tip: Be sure to get there early enough to miss the crowds. You’ll likely wait in line a bit for this gem. Worth every second. 

red panda at the San Diego zoo

3. San Diego Zoo

You could spend your entire day at the San Diego Zoo and still not see everything. I suggest bringing snacks to save money on food and get there right at opening. The busiest exhibit is the pandas and they are at the back of the zoo. Rather than wait in line to only see them for 30 seconds, go directly their first and work your way to the front. 

Pro (and slightly cheesy) Tip: The San Diego Zoo has live cameras on some of its most popular animals. Let your friends/family know you will be there ahead of time and then wave as you go by!

Hiking the Ho-Chi Minh Trail

4. Hiking the Ho-Chi Minh Trail

I honestly had no idea that’s what this trail was called until I wrote this post, because we just stumbled upon it one afternoon. The rock formations are stunning, and the trail leads you straight to the ocean! Pack a light picnic and make a date out of the excursion. You won’t be disappointed by the views and Instagramable opportunities. 

Pro Tip: Caution! Some parts of this trail are treacherous and a tight squeeze. Be ready for a workout. 

estancia la jolla

5. Estancia La Jolla

My husband and I have been to San Diego several times now, but no hotel compares to the Estancia. The service is impeccable. The spa is incredible. The quality is undeniable. One evening the staff allowed Colton and I to eat our dinner in the garden and it was beautiful. They also have movie nights by the pool and fun activities for families. 

Pro Tip: Seriously, stay at the Estancia. That’s my pro tip. 

The Very Best Places to Visit In San Diego

I hope you enjoyed The Very Best Places to Visit In San Diego. For more travel tips, be sure to read the additional content below:

San Diego Foods You Need to Try
How to Handle An 8 Hour Layover In Philadelphia
The Best Things to Pack for the Zoo

Subscribe to Gentry Journeys below for weekly content and updates, follow us on Instagram, and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for more content. Feel free to email me with questions and suggestions.

Safe Travels,