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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Laguna Beach to San Diego?
The direct drive from Laguna Beach to San Diego is 78.9 mi (127 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 21 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Laguna Beach to San Diego, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with La Jolla, Carlsbad, Temecula, Escondido, Coronado, Dana Point, San Clemente, Oceanside, and Encinitas, as well as top places to visit like Castle Park and Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet, or the ever-popular Fender Factory Tour.
The top cities between Laguna Beach and San Diego are La Jolla, Carlsbad, Temecula, Escondido, Coronado, Dana Point, San Clemente, Oceanside, and Encinitas. La Jolla is the most popular city on the route. It's 1 hour from Laguna Beach and less than an hour from San Diego.
Dana Point is a municipality situated in the south of Orange County, in California. The city's port, known as Dana Point Harbor, features multiple marinas and a wide variety of unique boutiques. It serves as a starting point for ocean excursions where visitors can observe dolphins and whales. Two beaches close by are Doheny State Beach and Salt Creek Beach with grassy parks behind them.
9% as popular as La Jolla
2 minutes off the main route, 19% of way to San Diego
San Clemente, located in Orange County, California, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery and state beaches like San Onofre and San Clemente Beach. The area also boasts the picturesque Beach Trail that offers visitors uninterrupted views of the sea along with a variety of green parks. The famous T-Street Beach is home to the long stretch of San Clemente Pier that extends into the Pacific Ocean.
9% as popular as La Jolla
1 minute off the main route, 28% of way to San Diego
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Oceanside, a charming coastal city in California, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can enjoy the palm-dotted Harbor Beach and explore the bustling Oceanside Harbor with its marina and shops. The iconic Oceanside Pier stretches into the Pacific Ocean, providing stunning views and recreational opportunities. For those interested in surfing, the California Surf Museum showcases an impressive collection of surfboards and exhibits on renowned surfers.
17% as popular as La Jolla
1 minute off the main route, 51% of way to San Diego
Carlsbad, a city situated near San Diego in California, boasts of several attractions such as Tamarack Surf Beach and South Carlsbad State Beach, both of which are backed by the Carlsbad Sea Wall. The Legoland California theme park is another popular destination that offers rides, a water park and the SEA LIFE Aquarium.
54% as popular as La Jolla
1 minute off the main route, 56% of way to San Diego
Temecula, a charming city in southwestern Riverside County, California, is steeped in history and boasts a population of over 110,000. Established in 1989, it offers a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. One of its notable attractions is the 1909 Temecula restaurant, located in a historic tin-roofed warehouse that was once a trading post and livery.
34% as popular as La Jolla
25 minutes off the main route, 57% of way to San Diego
I'll never travel to San Diego without this trip planner again
Escondido, a city in San Diego County, California, is one of the oldest cities in the area. With a population of over 150,000 people, it has become a major destination for craft beer enthusiasts. The city is home to Stone Brewing, the largest producer of craft beer in the county since 2006. In addition to this renowned brewery, Escondido also boasts several smaller operations offering unique taprooms and craft beer experiences throughout the downtown area and its outskirts.
23% as popular as La Jolla
7 minutes off the main route, 67% of way to San Diego
Encinitas, a charming beach city in San Diego County, California, is situated about 25 miles north of San Diego and 95 miles south of Los Angeles. In the heart of Downtown Encinitas, there's a restaurant serving up delicious Filipino dishes like lumpia, garlic fried rice, pancit varieties, caldereta (a beef stew), and chicken adobo. The weekday lunch specials offer a mix of these delectable options.
8% as popular as La Jolla
1 minute off the main route, 67% of way to San Diego
La Jolla is a beautiful coastal area just north of San Diego, known for its rugged and dramatic coastline. It features stunning views, wide beaches, rocky cliffs, pine trees, sandstone canyons and natural reserves like Torrey Pines State Park. La Jolla Cove offers sweeping ocean views while the Shell Beach tide pools are home to anemones and crabs.
Most popular city on this route
5 minutes off the main route, 83% of way to San Diego
Coronado is a city situated on a peninsula in San Diego Bay, California. The area is popular for the Hotel del Coronado, an old Victorian hotel established in 1888. The wide and flat Coronado Beach is situated across from the hotel and attracts sunbathers and surfers alike. It also includes a leash-free dog beach while the nearby Centennial Park offers stunning views of San Diego's skyline.
21% as popular as La Jolla
9 minutes off the main route, 89% of way to San Diego
Best stops along Laguna Beach to San Diego drive
The top stops along the way from Laguna Beach to San Diego (with short detours) are San Diego Zoo, USS Midway Museum, and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Other popular stops include Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove, and Coronado Island.
1
Fender Factory Tour
Permanently closed
Musical instrument store
Visitor Centers
My wife and my son took me here for my birthday a couple of years ago. One of the most memorable birthdays I’ve had. When you’re a guitar nut especially a Fender freak like myself, visiting the factory where this iconic piece of musical genius is created is like a trip to heaven.
Jeffery “Rocko” Rach — Google review
It is a hit and miss - I had a friend that liked his tour. But, for me, it was unforgettable in a bad way. I went to the tour in 2016.
The tour guide (I wish I remember his name, but he can be seen in one of the pics, wearing a olive green shirt) was terrible! It looked like he hated that job, or he was replacing someone else. There is a wall with some historic guitars (including some early days Fenders), he didn't allow us to stop and see it. He was constantly ironic, sometimes impolite at people. He mocked my accent (I'm Brazilian) in front of people when I asked a question. He was rushing people.
Despite that, I saw a Limited Edition guitar what was about to be launched and I asked if I could buy that guitar. But the purchase experience (with the same guy) wasn't nice, so I gave up.
Also, when you enter the main tour hall, there is the ModShop room (place where you can assemble your own guitar, putting different parts together) and the professional on the charge of that room was also rude.
Factory-wise: it's just a factory. Nothing different from other regular guitar factories. The pics I'm posting here can prove my point.
Something good: at that time, there was a room with most guitar amps made by Fender, and anyone could give them a spin. On the other hand, there wasn't a lot of guitars to be played.
Anyway, I used to be a Fender fanboy when I was a kid, and that tour was the last straw, shaking my relationship with the brand. This is my experience and I wish I had written it immediately after my visit.
PS: the smile in one of the pics was taken before the tour, when I arrived at the facility.
Victor Scherrer — Google review
Drove all the way from San Diego, Visitor Center closed. They should have listed it on their website CLEARLY. WE ARE CLOSED DUE TO COVID !!! The security guard that met us at the entrance said “I keep telling Maria to change that “ Very inconsiderate
Carol Bello — Google review
My 2015 Fender American Standard Stratocaster (olympic white) has aged nicely, however the polyurethane paint is starting to show through and I can clearly see that it has 4 pieces of wood glued together. IS THIS WHAT FENDER HAS BECOME??? Anyway it looks terrible, not the quality you would expect from Fender.
Giovanni Anzalone — Google review
Even with covid restrictions lifted fender does not want the public to tour. I don't want to buy from them then. No where was it listed they are closed to the public and they don't offer a phone number to call.
Brian “Herbert” C. — Google review
Awesome! Amazing to see the dedication and hard work that goes into every guitar and amp.
bob jones — Google review
When you see the craftsmanship, it is impressive. My fellow Americans should see made in America at work.
Castle Park is a compact amusement park which offers live entertainment, arcade games and American cuisine. The park's prices are reasonable and the wait in line is generally less than five minutes, with some rides having no wait at all. While crowds tend to gather later in the day, the staff are helpful and positive throughout. One drawback may be that the hours of operation on Sundays are somewhat limited - closing at 8pm. Overall, Castle Park provides an enjoyable experience for both adults and children alike.
Great place to take your family. Was not that expensive like i first thought it would be. I bought the family special online to enter park for 4 w/ food bundle. Paid about $140 The rides were good, only thing the log ride or the screaming demon ride wasn't running. ☹ there was not long lines to wait in. 👍 Overall We had a good time. Definitely coming back. We highly recommend this place.
Anthony Alvarez Sr — Google review
Very nice place , I love it! It feels very authentic and vintage ,not something that you see in every amusement park.
Worth the membership to support them but unless you do the platinum one there is a $15 fee for parking which is way too much and definitely adds up a lot .
While most of the rides are for kids there are some that are also good for adults and a few for toddlers too. One of my kids is still too scared of most of the rides but still enjoys the little train and the vintage cars and the carousel . I love the trees around that give shade.
I love that the platinum membership gives you a cup with free drink refills for the season and some coupons with discounts .
Another think I really like is that the place is big enough to entertain for the day but not too big to be overwhelming .
Mini golf is very nice and has 3 courses.
Definitely needs ramps to allow people of all abilities and families with strollers to have fun too because there are many stairs and some trees to hide a bit the side of the mini-golf that is by the road full of traffic.
Elite — Google review
Went Yesterday for the first time and I gotta admit, me personally i think I enjoyed as much as my kids. We loved it and most definitely will be coming back soon. Great prices and the wait for the lines less than 5 minutes or half the time there were no Lines. Not crowded till it got later. The hours seem kinda short. They close at 8pm on Sundays. We loved the whole experience. The staff there were helpful and positive.
Robert Alvarado — Google review
Super cute park. Not to big but lots of shade. Mini golf is cute and arcade is fun. Loved both train rides. Oh, and also has a small water park area. Has a magic show and few other rides and hand sanitizers throughout the park! Give it 4 stars because there were a couple rides not opened. But Good place to visit. Definately recommended!
Mercy Sanchez — Google review
We only went to the mini golf course. My kids like mini golf and they absolutely LOVED these courses. There were 4 courses with 18 holes in each one. Absolutely terrific. We recently moved to the area and we’ve been looking forward to this & we’re now thinking to get the yearly pass, fun!
Deeps Shirsath- Jamdade — Google review
Went for date night with my husband and our best friends for mini golf. The pricing is reasonable and environment is a chill vibe. Probably should eat before coming though. Snacks are overpriced.
Angel Thomas — Google review
We had such a blast!!Lots of rides good prices great funnel cakes and fried Oreo's. Awesome golf setup the arcade was big we couldn't even finish the rides so we didn't get a chance to go inside the arcade nor golf
Lots of parking they are pretty organized,restrooms were accessible and clean Lots of souvenir stores We had a great time!!
Nelly Charmz — Google review
I took Collin to the water park in riverside . Castle park It was very hot that day. So we went to the water slide And it was very cool in that area. There was older people there with their grand kids sitting sitting down watching the kids get on the water slides and play in the water. It was very relaxing I really enjoyed myself. And it seems like the kids was having a awesome time. I think the price was $37 per person person $15 for parking. If you know anything about me you know I keep It real. There's a building near that looks like a barn which serves excellent food And they have air condition. I believe it opens from 11 AM to 7 PM. It's a excellent place for the kids to run around and have fun easy to watch them At the water slide one way In 1 way out.
Roxanne Harris — Google review
It's a fun place to enjoy with the family. You can enjoy all the opened attractions easily in one visit. The crew members had a great attitude. A few rides were done and a few broke down temporarily during our visit bit overall a great experience with the rides and arcade. In past visits we have enjoyed the Waterpark and mini golf just didn't experience it this visit. Also if you come is a beautiful sight to see Kevin the parks live roaming peacock. The big top barbecue restaurant is wonderful to get a good plate of food. The ribs and chicken plate so delicious
Carmen Hernandez — Google review
In my opinion, the rides here are best suited for ages 3 -12. If you want a 5 star experience suitable for all ages, SoCal has plenty of theme parks to choose from. Of course, you'll pay a lot more to get in than we did, only $19.99 online.
As grandparents with four kids in tow, aged 1 to 7, we had a lovely time. Castle Park opened in 1976. Sadly, the log ride and train weren't operating on the Sunday we went. Still, the kids had fun on classic rides like the seaplane, carousel, bumper cars, and antique cars.
Ari Eliefja — Google review
I haven’t been here in about 18 years. I gotta say overall I’m impressed that’s it’s still around. Me and my bf just went recently. The rides and arcade are great!! Food, of course, even years later still pricey 😭 so I recommend a cooler and bringing your own food honestly.
I see what Castle Park is doing good and where improvements can benefit them.
The staff is friendly and helpful in every venue and ride.
My only complaint is the lack of hype for Dukes Dj dance party. Like come on , y’all could really have something.
Overall, we will be going back again🩵
Terra Lee — Google review
Had a great time the fireball ride is the best food was pretty good.
For a small park, you get to have a lot of fun. Had some amazing memories with my daughter with my daughter
Jesus De Alba — Google review
My husband and I went to castle park to see how castle dark was for our 4yr anniversary. Their opening ceremony is pretty cool almost as cool as knots. Mazes are short, but the night shift maze was lots of fun for a short maze. You're literally in the dark with a flash light. As for rides really not that many. I mean it is Castle Park after all. We went to Castle Dark twice on a Saturday with my sister, and on a Friday night with just me and my husband. When we went on a Saturday lines got long as the night progressed unfortunately four rides were down for maintenance. When me and my husband went on a Friday night all the lines were short definitely not as many people like we thought their would be which is understandable since most people are tired from the long work week. All the rides were open this time as well. Basically if you want some amusement park fun with your family or friends and don't have a lot of money or feel like spending a lot of money or driving out to far, Castle Park is the place to go. Just keep in mind it is just a small amusement park. All in all had a good time
Miss Jo — Google review
This place is a nice gem in Riverside. The price for admission is worth every penny. The park has a good amount of rides for mostly all ages.
There are kiddy and carnival rides, as well as more intense rides at the park. My kids loved the classic car ride near the train. They decorate the place for Halloween and it's neat at night with all the lights! They have miniature golf also which makes the place huge, but it's not far to walk to each attraction which is a plus.
The wait time for rides can be a little long and I would've liked to see a sit-down family restaurant near the mini golf course, but we enjoyed our time and will come back when in the area.
terosol — Google review
Castle Park is a fantastic family theme park that has remained a beloved destination for many years. While it may be missing a major refurbishment, it still offers a fun-filled experience for families without breaking the bank. One of the highlights is their great family package, which is sometimes available and definitely not to be missed.
The park offers a variety of exhilarating rides and enjoyable mini-golfing options. It's a perfect place to spend quality time with family, creating unforgettable memories. Additionally, Castle Park hosts the Castle Dark event, featuring a few spooky mazes that are especially appealing to kids who are starting to embrace the Halloween season.
I would like to express my gratitude to Castle Park for providing an affordable theme park experience for families to enjoy for many more years to come. While some areas may require attention, the overall value and fun factor of this park make it a worthwhile visit.
Fernando Ortiz — Google review
Great place for the price to let the kids play and Kevin always roaming around he's friendly if you are getting some rest on top the icee bar...
Jerry Newland — Google review
This place was fun! The gentlemen working the mini golf counter at 5pm 1/5/24 could use a customer service refresher that is the reason for the 4 stars instead of 5. They failed to mention that groups of 12 or more could save about 80 bucks and when we asked to refund the first of our group to pay he said they couldn't refund. Of course that changed when we asked to speak to a manager. So for everyone, groups of 15 (he was mistaken and told us 12) get a group discount rate fyi.
Van Buren Drive-In Theatre and Swap Meet is an iconic cinema that dates back to 1964, known for its outdoor screens and bustling Swap Meet markets. It's a perfect spot for families who enjoy the great outdoors while watching movies in a secure environment. The theater offers double features at reasonable prices, allowing moviegoers to indulge in two films on one screen.
Great time , guys bathroom needs to be cleaned better, staff very friendly snack bar was awesome and had a overall great time
Lone Wolf — Google review
Such a cool theater to bring the kids and hang out prior to the movie… clean and safe environment… if you love being outdoors and watching movies, this is the best place to do that… we come prepared with blankets and snacks… the only down part is that the snack bar is not that great…I think they are remodeling… hoping for better food… otherwise bring your own😉
Jumera17 — Google review
This was my first ever drive-in movie experience and it was super fun! You can watch two movies back to back on one screen at a very good price. Glad Riverside has this!
Arunabha Mitra — Google review
Horrible experience.. I go alone and there were so many headlights shining toward me, toward the screen and also brake lights.. I went about an hour and a half after the movie started it kept getting worse. I took video for proof. As I went to the ticket guys this guy George went irate said he didn't see any lights and started arguing with me. He told me to leave I was turning around my vehicle to exit and he barks another order and says to take the security guard and show him the lights.. as I park my car and grab my jacket he is charging toward my car still yelling at me to leave I replied "I am doing as you're telling me to, what is your problem" he then threatened to call the cops on me so I got back in my car.. I asked the security guard what that guts name was and George is again charging at my car and is at my window yelling at me.. I go here every weekend alone. I do not appreciate this kind of service and didn't get a refund.
Lionette Y — Google review
I've been going to this drive in for years.
Cool place to take the kids. Staff wasn't the best kinda wish the screen was a little brighter but it's always a good experience. I would definitely recommend trying it out.
cambam — Google review
Very cool place, my family and I really like coming to this theater because we can play and relax prior to the movie…too bad it is too cold in the winter to stay off the car and watch the movies. They need better food stand though.
Orlando Salgado — Google review
Haven't been in like 10 years, but had a blast food from concessions was good, service was fast, and bathrooms were clean!! The people who leave their trash all over are the problem. Went on a Saturday night and while busy was a mellow night. Great date night.
Denise Cox — Google review
Just a FYI they do not serve popcorn, or your normal movie theater drive in snacks.. I was pretty disappointed.. I wanted nachos and a pretzel and when my boyfriend called me when he went to go to the snack bar to tell me all they had was Mexican food. I had him get me a hot dog.. $8.00 for a hot dog that was just a regular hot dog that I could have made at home. Will bring my own food next time. Also people are inconsiderate when watching the movie.. leaving there lights on.. showing on the screen.. their alarms going off.. people with big subs parking in front of you.. went the are supposed to park towards the back.
Kimberly Thomas — Google review
We had so much fun! They have a snack bar with great food options. And the prices for food was actually not crazy overpriced either. Everyone working was so polite and patient. I suggest getting here early because we got here an hour before the movie started and there were already a good amount of people in line. I think the one hour was a perfect amount of time to be sure you get good spot and to order food before it gets really busy. All in all 10/10. We absolutely will be going back.
Update: well I'm sad to say this because I thoroughly enjoyed our last experience and decided to come back like I said I would.... well this time was awful... I read reviews on screen 2 and come to find out myself the reviews are true!!! Saw The Little Mermaid on opening night with the kiddos and couldn't hear half the movie! Such a disappointment for all of us.
Update 2: we ended up going back bcus the kids really wanted to and the movie was screen 2 again go figure... well I'm pleasantly surprised it was fine! My hypothesis is that if it's slightly windy that's what messes up the screen. Which is understandable
If we plan on going be sure to see what screen you'll be watching on. Screen 2 is a no go!! But screen 3 was great. I haven't used screen 1 yet. Will update if I do
Aerial Renee — Google review
Drive-In theater is a neat experience. We watched The Exorcist 2, and the radio connection was really good. The swap meet is decent. Definitely have to arrive a little later to see all the sellers. But overall, a good variety of articles to find.
Moises Armendariz — Google review
The drive-in is super easy to get to, find a spot, and get setup. The radio station was nice and crystal clear for the audio. I really enjoyed it with my kids in the back of the car and had a double feature.
Jeff McNeil — Google review
LOVE THIS PLACE! You get 2 movies for $10 per person. It’s such a great deal. You are able to bring in your own food and snacks. Overall a great experience and a great deal.
Side note on the food court: the churros are not good. They might smell delicious but they are a hard pass.
Jennifer De La Torre — Google review
Swapmeet is great to go during the weekdays or weekends.
The drive-in is also great to watch movies. You pay one fee and you get two movies out of it definitely worth the money. Only downside is you get some nasty people who smoke their weed. They have no respect for people around them who don’t want to smell that trash.
Jose Lara — Google review
I love the drive-in theater as a family outing during the warmer months. It is the most affordable outing these days, and we enjoy it. I've been going since I was a kid, and now I take my own kids. They keep the restrooms and area clean. There was constantly an employee out cleaning when we last went. There is a snack bar available, but we also bring our own pizza. FYI, Dominoes is right next door.
Jessica Gilliam — Google review
4.4
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4.5
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3035 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92503, USA
California Citrus State Historic Park is a beautiful and informative 300 acre park located about 62 miles from Palm Springs. The park is dedicated to preserving the history of California's citrus boom in the 20th century, and boasts well-marked trees and historical signs. Visitors can learn about different types of citrus fruit trees and how they grow by exploring the park's trails, museum, and tours. The property also has a fruit stand where visitors can purchase freshly harvested citrus fruits.
Stopped by during a road trip. Beautiful spot and great views. Well marked trees and historical signs.
Note: visitors center only seems to be open F-Sun but park is open daily.
Make sure to stop by fruit stand off of the main road for citrus harvested on the property!
Ben Brooks — Google review
Nice place to visit. Good historical background. Small but nice shop area. They give tours. Check their website because it depends on the time of year. They said the best time for tours is late fall. Samantha gave a very nice explanation of the fruit that is grown in the area with samples to take home, depending upon availability.
Greg Pegan — Google review
Really cool park with a variety of citrus trees and lots of avocado trees to view (no picking nor eating). There were some samples in the visitors center. Nice space to hike around with beautiful view of the hills and orchards.
Quynh nguyen — Google review
What a terrific discovery. Located 62 miles from Palm Springs this location is definitely worth taking a day trip.
Beautiful for Citrus fruit was ripe so showing off its full glory.
Museum very informative and tour helped us learn so much on this 300 acre park.
Kathy Condon — Google review
A California State Park devoted to the history of the citrus industry in southern California. A beautiful and serene place for a visit. When I visit southern California again, I will definitely return!
Joe Kupris — Google review
300 acres of citrus, including some exotic varieties. Easy walking trails with signs indicating varieties and some history of citrus growing in California. It should be noted that the small park museum is only open on weekends, Friday to Sunday. Also, picking of fruit is prohibited, but some is allowed when the museum is open. Everything is very family friendly.
Ray Frohnhoefer — Google review
Best time! Me and my 3rd grader went for a school project. We had so much fun seeing all the trails and types of citrus fruit trees and the way they grow.
Ayesha Howell — Google review
Definitely worth stopping. We took some time and walked around the museum and frolicked through the fields. There are gazebos, picnic tables, and benches to take in a lovely view of the numerous citrus trees and surrounding mountains. I would come here on a 1st date, walk the trail, or read a good book.
Samantha Hart — Google review
Interesting place to learn about citrus and its impact on the CA economy. The only cost is parking which was $7.
Mike Neifert — Google review
Better late than Navel. Had a great visit during weekend.
The park’s museum exhibits and interpretive features share the story of the citrus industry's role in the history when "Citrus was King" in California,
Be sure to hike the short and sweet citrus groves. Enjoy the greenery and scents of different orange trees. Great place to walk around with school age children and adults.
Park docents and volunteers where friendly, courteous and knowledgeable. Clean shaded picnic tables. Clean restroom.
California Citrus State Historic Park is juiced around the corner. Will definitely go back again.
Sam Bawahab — Google review
Neat stop when in Riverside 91 Exit Van Buren. Parking is $7 per car. We stopped by on Sunday after Big Bear trip. There was a small museum and where we could try some fruits. We walked around to see lots of various citrus trees with fruits. Note that there were signs that you could not pick fruit from the tree or ground.
The small streets surrounding the park were full of farms and orchards, also with a lot of orange trees. It was nice to drive around to see and take pictures.
Sarah Espiritu — Google review
Definitely the prettiest place in Riverside in my opinion. The view from the top of the hill behind the museum is amazing. Great place to walk around or ride through with a bike.
Iron Pizza — Google review
Excellent place to spend time. Great clean park with amazing views.
Aria Savadkouei — Google review
Enjoyed visiting this beautiful citrus farm, the staff was friendly, and provided us a tour unscheduled. The various oranges where delicious 🍊🍊🍊
Mel S — Google review
This is an incredible and iconic piece of history for the city of Riverside. Strolling through this beautiful & colorful park brings you back to a whole different world and feel of the world of citrus where all the first oranges in Riverside were brought for the first time. This is great for families and large groups. We enjoy running through the orchards and watching all the different citrus types. do not forget to go into the mini citrus museum and the gift shop. They have very unique items.
Michael Nugent — Google review
We had a great time wandering by ourselves but probably would've been happier with the tour. I wish there would have been way more fruit for sale especially after the tastings.
Park with a pool, water slide, simulated wave attraction & lazy river plus an area for small kids.
The best (and only!) Waterpark within 30 miles. It is small but perfect size. They also have great deals on Friday nights. Look out for their amazing, once a year, seasonal pass. This is a great place to bring multiple children. There is fun for everyone....slides (open and covered), children's section, open swimming pools, a floating river and tons of chairs to choose from. On hot summer days, people often bring their own towels and just find a place to fit on the grass, by the pools, too.
They do sell food. It is decent priced and in taste.
Micaela El Fattal — Google review
Lots of fun for the kids and family. I recommend spending a day. There is a lazy river with a small slide, a large pool, and a wave machine that are open. But in terms of water slides as of 6/29/2023, only two of the large waterslides are open. These are the two that are enclosed. One you can ride down on a tube, while the other is a body slide (no tube allowed). The two large open-air slides are currently not open. It's a bit unclear from the website but that's the current slide status.
Timothy Ellmore — Google review
Decent enough water park in Vista. Good place to have fun in the waters.
The place is not big. It has 5 sections.
1. A pool for you to relax in the water.
2. Water sprout play area.
3. The Wave rider - cool ride, if you dare to do.
4. Lazy river water tube ride.
5. Water slides where you do body slide or with tubes.
There is food corner inside the park which is reasonably priced, where you can get food like
- hot dogs
- burgers (hamburger, cheese burger, veggie burger, etc)
- pizza ( pepperoni or cheese)
- chips
- drinks, etc.
A good day out for the kids without spending more than $30 - $35 per person.
Taniyyus Syed — Google review
We had an amazing time at The Wave Water Park. We celebrated my husband's birthday and we thoroughly enjoyed it. We took advantage of the Friday night special they have going on for the summer. Reserved a big Cabana and got the meals for the whole party. Their food could have been hotter, but overall, everything was great. Our hostess continuously checked in on us.
The Guerrero-Chairez Family — Google review
Amazing kids loved will definitely return
Jainay James — Google review
Loved this waterpark. They have friendly staff, the bathrooms are clean, and the place is a blast. Our boys had fun.
Yescenia Lopez — Google review
We had so much fun. Perfect size, not overcrowded, easily got chairs, both my adventurous and my non adventurous kids loved it. Lifeguards everywhere and constantly moving and looking.
Carlee — Google review
Went here as a child. Worked here as a teen. It's the best lil' waterpark we got around here. Give it a break. Great location, fun summer camps for kids, and respectful staff.
Wyatt Ayling — Google review
Nice place, good discount via Groupon. Not an over the top water park but somewhere in the middle. Two slides were out of operation. Pizza is not great, kids would not eat it. There is little kids area with water features. Best to get there early and get a shaded spot. Plenty of chairs to lounge. Gets a bit crowded but not enough to make it any less fun.
Dan L — Google review
Cabana fun, lots of lifeguards...safe for kids. As a mom , i can actually relax & swim too!🌊🌊🌊staff is always helpful & nice ..esp. Anitza & Nick!! You both are amazing 😊snack bar is the best food..with even better prices 🍔🍔🍔🍦🍦🍦
Vanessa Buyson — Google review
Rented a cabana this Saturday for a birthday party and it was clean and well kept. The kids had so much fun that they didn’t want to leave and it wasn’t too overcrowded and all the water slides were open. We got the Silver package and the birthday boy received a little gift from the park. Everything was well priced and the staff were all super friendly. Definitely would come back in the future.
This open-air venue for concerts & other events offers 908 permanent seats & lawn seating for 1,092.
Awesome place to watch live theater and music! I attended my first show here, Memphis, which played at the La Jolla Playhouse. This is a gem in Vista and for the whole region to enjoy! Yes it does get chilly (dress accordingly and/or take a blanket) at night but quite comfortable most of the time.
Shayok — Google review
Saw Ragtime. Pretty good and definitely a great value and venue. However, sounds checks and mic checks need to be better. Will be back for the next show kinky boots but hope it's better or I will likely not return. Also multiple actors forgot lines. The orchestra was amazing and the highlight of the show.
LasVegas Food Czar — Google review
The mini Hollywood Biel of San Diego!
Eagles cover band was a sellout!
Different concert every night, summer selection of musicals.
Park below, walk up the hill or drive around the back. Bring your own food or buy there.
Sit in their fixed chairs or on the grass in one of their chairs.
Been going there for ten years and always found the staff and visitors to be polite and respectful.
Anne P — Google review
We went last night for Beauty and the Beast. This was our first time here and we will definitely be back. We've lived in San Diego all our lives and never knew this was here!
If you have kids, seats on the great lawn is great. If you want to pay attention to the show with minimal distractions, I would recommend the lower seats. We sat on the great lawn as we didn't know what to expect. It was fine (no big bites!) but there were a few kids running around which could be distracting.
Take a blanket/sweater - it gets chilly at night.
Bre Coco — Google review
Jingle Terrace at the Moonlight Amphitheatre is worth attending. Free to attend nightly through December 23rd, 2023.
Family friendly.
Stroller friendly.
Food and alcohol available for purchase.
Clean, well stocked restrooms.
Music and light show on stage throughout event.
*Each day there are different activities including Santa visits and Reindeer.
Lia Garcia — Google review
This is a true hidden gem in Vista! The shows are high quality and it is a beautiful venue. Being that Vista is a small city, it has a small town feel. It's not Hollywood but it is a great local venue. You might get some traffic exiting because the locals will pack the more popular shows.
Jonathan Gomez — Google review
A wonderful outdoor Amphitheater. Not a bad seat; great sound system and professional productions. There's a café on site to enjoy a light dinner before the show. Their soecislty is the Grilled Sandwich; the tomato soup is delicious. There's also a bar offering great options to quench your thirst or craving. They offer a great covered seating area with plenty of tables and chairs to enjoy your dinner.
Ruth Jones — Google review
Marshall Charloff and the Purple Experience 💜 are the MOST AWEMAZING 💜 PRINCE TRIBUTE BAND!! This was our 4th time seeing them ... and look forward to seeing them again when they come back to the San Diego area!! They truly keep Prince's music alive ... 💜🕊
PRINCE would be Proud!😘
courtland kusmierz — Google review
We love seeing concerts here. You can get up close or sit and chill. Staff are friendly and the band selection is stellar. One of my favorite things to do in North County! Thank you for creating a wonderful space to listen to our favorite musicians.
Christina Coons — Google review
Fabulous venue! Great seating and sound quality,and the best part is you can bring your own picnic! All the staff was extremely helpful and nice. Super easy to get in and out. Lots of bathrooms and very clean. Absolutely loved it!
Danielle Dendinger — Google review
We have been here several times and no matter where you sit the view is amazing. Love this venue. Best part is you bring your own food. Parking is super simple and a breeze. Everyone is super chill and helpful.
Monique Jones — Google review
My wife and I are returning patrons for multiple shows at this great amphitheater. Latest show we came for was The Wedding Singer. There's seating to choose from when getting tickets, but normally choose one of the lawn seats to enjoy a small picnic before the show. The chairs for the lawn sit really low, so it can be difficult for some to sit down and/or stand up. The chairs are relatively comfortable though. I've seen so patrons bring seat cushions for added comfort. There are concessions for food and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) that are okay priced. There are mutiple bathrooms, which are fairly clean and maintained. There are two entrances to enter the amphitheater, although the north entrance has the box office if it is needed for services. Free parking throughout the public park area where the amphitheater sits. Parking is in a paved parking lot or grass lot. We will continue to come for the shows.
Gil Corpuz — Google review
This show (Dead Man's Party) was unforgettable and the venue was perfect. The staff were friendly and helpful and the amenities were above and beyond. I'd love to see another event here.
At K1 Speed, you can experience the thrill of go-karting like never before. With their state-of-the-art track, they allow for fast acceleration and an adrenaline rush that is sure to leave you wanting more. Plus, with their Arrive and Drive race packages, parents can have the peace of mind they need to get to and from the track without reservation required.
We had a great time. I tried going fast but I had to be careful not to hit anyone so if you'd like to enjoy the track, I'd suggest racing by yourself or a small number of people. If you're not a very good driver I would suggest going slow as it's not hard to lose grip around the corners if you're going to fast.
WheresTheCap GG — Google review
Super fun experience for the young and the old. There are 3 different styles of cars and groups are sent on the track based on age.
For the adults, be ready for a thrill, these cars are fast!
There's some strategy to getting the lowest lap time you can. Rankings aren't based on who finishes the race first, you're really racing against yourself. Be careful, it's addicting! As you round the straight away you'll see your lap time, guaranteed you'll push to make the next lap faster!
It's a blast for the young kids as well. The cars are set to drive slower, the staff does a phenomenal job at keeping things safe as they race around the track.
What I love the most is that it doesn't have to be an all day affair, we decided to pop in for a quick race and were out within an hour. It's the perfect.
Enjoy!
Matt Curran — Google review
My son and I had a good time. However, it seems they put some kind of governor on my son's car.So he drove slower than the rest of the kids on the track. I don't know if it was because he was only six or because it was His first time or what. We visited the San Diego location a couple days later, and they didn't slow his car down and he had a lot more fun..
James Hansen — Google review
This place is awesome! Our 6 year old is very interested in racing and we were nervous to get him started. The staff was OVERWHELMINGLY welcoming, patient and kind to us. I say we were overwhelmed because it really was above and beyond!! A special thank you to Frankie who even remembered my sons name at our second visit!!! If you're wondering, our son did awesome and we I am sure we will be spending a LOT more time at k1 speed. :)
Scarred Beauty — Google review
This is a delightful experience for all ages. This raceway offers three different styles of carts, including drift karts, junior karts, and adult karts, with the adult karts reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour! Junior karts are a great speed for younger children. The drift carts would be upon request.
This location and K1 in general offer events you could rent out for parties, team-building experiences, and much more! Would be an amazing location to have a get-together or party. This location features a snack bar and K1's iconic race reports. The decor is also well-themed. Hope that you are able to check out this unique experience, and happy racing!
Brayden Myers — Google review
This place is so fantastic! My son absolutely loves coming here for the junior league every month! A huge shout out to Freddie too because he makes all the kids feel so special! He is the kindess person and seems to really be the glue there! Thank you for being awesome!
bridget w — Google review
Frankie (manager) and team were great and on top of all the details for my son’s bday party. He and his team could t have been more accommodating and the kids had a blast. I highly recommend k1 speed in Carlsbad and look forward to our next event there. Thank you!
Gary Holmes — Google review
First time there with 9 guys from our new Men's Fraternity, Oceanside First Presbyterian Church. Our 97 and 92 year old guys decided to race along with the much younger racers; what an inspiration they were. Everyone had a great time; the food was very good at a reasonable price and the staff was very helpful.
I was hoping this first special event for our group would go well as and it exceeded my expectations. Thank you all at K1 Speed.
StephenMichael Yoakem — Google review
We held a party with 22 Kart riders and 15 fans watching. They were busy but were focused. When it was our turn to race, we had the track to ourselves and had a great time. Very professional and efficient staff. We plan on doing this annually as a group.
John P — Google review
Such a great experience all because of the awesome management . We had my son 9th birthday party there and Frankie the location manager made sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible. I definitely recommend this place .
nazanin soroush — Google review
This location and K1 speed Irvine have the best management out of all the ones i’ve visited. My friends cart had run out of battery during the race and the management there gave him a refund and another free race. He also gave us a track walk and pointers for free
JDOB808 — Google review
I’ve never been before, but the staff made it easy and fun to learn, without making me feel silly for having no experience. The track wasn’t too hard, where I was discouraged while driving, but also had its fair share of twists and turns that made it a challenge. Overall, a really fun place to be and I had a wonderful time! Can’t wait for them to open up larger locations!!
Michelle Alexander — Google review
My son and all his friends had a blast at his birthday party in K1 Carlsbad. Thank you Frankie for arranging everything. It worthy every penny. The Guest’s
CZ G — Google review
My son has too short to ride the junior karts but he had a blast just looking at the races. The place is very kid friendly with lots of fun stuff to do.
leonardo sandoval — Google review
First time in here! Lots of Fun,great environment, plenty of KARTS, Friendly staff,convenient parking and location, highly recommended
universal Power — Google review
A great spacious facility with Go Karts and arcade games. We hosted a birthday party for a teenager and all the kids had a great time. The fee for the party included pizza and soft drinks. We were allowed to bring a dessert. The staff is very organized and friendly. The party rooms are nice and well maintained. The facility also has snacks and drinks counter and plenty of seating. Weekends get very busy so if you do not have a party reservation try to go during week days.
Paulina — Google review
The kids absolutely loved the experience. The staff were super nice and accommodating. Even though they had a full schedule with all the birthday parties that were happening that day. Frankie was such an amazing person to work with, was constantly communicating with me to help the day go so much easier and went above and beyond for our group.
My only critique is the process to book the party. I just wish that there was someone to easily call with my questions but every time I tried to contact the party reservations line, it would say that you were getting forwarded to voice-mail but then proceed to hang up the call. The only method of contact was email and its a hassle at times when I'm out and about a lot for work.
Other than that, I'd say this is a great place to hold your kid's birthday party.
Fermar Pabualan — Google review
deceptive marketing where they advertise an extra race only for you to sit for 2 hours waiting for it as they let other racers go multiple times consecutively before you get to go again. employees were rude and unhelpful when we asked and said it was our fault.
halle g — Google review
Had an alright time until our good friend got hurt racing. The main reason is because they mixed us in with strangers so some of them drove aggressively we thought we requested to just go in with our party. Also the pizza is TRASH for $15.
Marquell Randolph — Google review
One of the worst place have had in San Diego first of all customer service let’s say it trash they don’t even understand what they’re doing here if you talk to them and ask them about the information they were right away. Try to sell you they’re like oh you have to sign your name first and then when you go there they were right away. Let you pay they never tell you. How much is the total until you answer your car second of all they will tell you the time like one hour. They take about our two hours so do not believe what the customer service tell you the front desk they don’t know what they’re doing, I would never go back there and I don’t recommend this place there is a lot of place Cleanr, much respectful and nicer
Threading by Ranna salon&spa Ranna — Google review
We had a great time. I would have given 5 stars except we had to wait 2 hours. The staff was super friendly and helpful.
The Craftsmanship Museum showcases miniature models of engines, buildings, and vehicles made from metal and wood. The museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and displaying wood and metal crafts.
If in the area, this is a nice and interesting museum to check out. It's quite small (literally and figuratively), but there are lots of interesting things. I enjoyed the musical devices, doll houses, matchstick buildings, firearms, and cars. If you really like engines there were many displays. Things go in rotation so in a few months there may be something new.
Janice Y — Google review
This is a small gem! It took us about an hour and a half to see it all but there is amazing Craftmanship to see. The gentlemen at the front shared their love of crafts by showing us and telling us about some of the exhibits. Bring some cash if you can since there is no admission charged but there is a box for cash donations.
Jessica Mondesir — Google review
Incredible collection of some of the finest miniature homes, aircraft, ships, engines, etc. anywhere in the world! Plan on spending a couple of hours here. The docents are very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. They do have demonstrations periodically. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit here and plan to return in the future. A great visit for ALL ages. A small gift shop is on site, too. Free to visit but they do appreciate donations. Do yourself and your budding engineer a huge favor by stopping here. Plenty of parking as well as handicap friendly.
James Bray — Google review
This place is amazing! Multiple trips required to take it all in. The is my second trip and I bought a friend this time.
Doug Edwards — Google review
If we could give them 10 stars, we would. A jaw-dropping museum of astonishing builds. The passion and artistry are hard to comprehend, as we don't have any of this skill or capability, and so we greatly admired all that was there. The docents are friendly, informative, talented, and this was the highlight of our Carlsbad trip. They should charge for entry, as we could have spent delightful hours in there, admiring all the miniatures, and seeing them function. A tiny car which ACTUALLY has a gas engine in it??? HOLY COW! Wish we lived closer so we could go back again, and we have a ton of family and friends back in MI/MN who would love to visit this place. Thank you for existing, and for sharing this delight with the public! :)
Lori Putnam — Google review
It was So Much More than I had anticipated. Two, knowledgeable and friendly gentleman staff gave us great tidbits and gave power to several exhibits. From diesel to doll houses..AMAZING & WORTH IT!
Jerra Grett — Google review
First of all, if you feel unsure about this place, it is free to enter and free to sign up for the workshop where they show you some awesome engines and how they work. I have been here twice. Once with a friend and really enjoyed it. I brought my kids here also, and they are excited to come back again. There are detailed hand build doll houses and other structures that look amazing. Tons of tiny engines build for airplanes and cars and other random things. If you like to see the inside of cars and airplanes and things like that, you will love this place. I suggest bringing kids to expand their ideas and imagination and to understand the history of how these things worked.
Timothy Robertson — Google review
This place is ... nothing short of amazing. It's positively mind-blowing. It's definitely a must see - and has something for everyone.
Cyndi Ann Cross — Google review
This is a wonderful gem of a place in Carlsbad. Many models are working models. The details are amazing. It is definitely worth a visit.
Kendell Clark — Google review
Fantastic. What an amazing display of models. The 2 gentlemen were awesome. We will go back the next time we're in San Diego.
Jillian Sturm — Google review
Super cool place. Hard to believe the dedication it took to create these models. Make sure to wear a pocket protector:)
Jeffrey Porter — Google review
Excellent place to visit for anybody who has even a slight interest in engineering in engineering and machining. The volunteers are excellent and very well informed. Large display of functioning scale models of cars, motors, engines, boats, planes, trains, etc. The quality of craftsmanship and the pride that goes into the work is clearly very evident. All the best!
Fadi — Google review
A total surprise! An enormous collection of beautifully crafted/engineered miniatures. There is no way to describe the collection in a way to fully appreciate. There is something for everyone. We also appreciated the regular visits by Myron and other staffers to explain things, answer questions, operate exhibits - all with enthusiasm and exuberance! 3/9/2023
G.A. Stout — Google review
This was an amazing experience! Admission fee:donation. We spent nearly 2 hours being amazed in this place! Friendly staff were willing to answer questions and share stories and details about exibits.
dawn goodpaster — Google review
This place is a must visit! The amount of creativity is mind blowing. This place is truly incredible. The hand made items here are hard to describe. Real working motors at 1/6th size are amazing! The doll houses and everything here is all worth the time spent here. Please be prepared to spend at least a couple of hours. You will be assisted by the knowledgeable employees who tell you the stories of what is displayed. The minitures of several different items on display all have interesting stories and even more interesting are the makers behind the scenes. I had a great time and left with a deep appreciation for craftsmanship on display. Do yourself a favor and experience this location for yourself. I highly recommend a visit. Great place for the entire family to visit.
Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is a sprawling, 27-acre park located in Carlsbad, California that is home to peacocks, birds of paradise, and more. The park spans over years of Leo Carrillo's legacy as a rancher and actor, and is now open to the public for day trips and relaxation.
Always enjoyed our visit here at the ranch! We started visiting in 2020 when the pandemic started.
The ranch is spacious and open. This provides ample of distance between our family and others. There are many benches and tables for people to have a picnic and kids to run around. It was fun and educational to walk around and see the architecture of the houses.
The best time to visit is March to June. One can hear and see wild peacocks in the ranch. Local residents may not like to hear them because the peacocks are really loud during mating season but it is a joy to many to see the beautiful birds. Did I say that these are wild birds? Please don’t feed the birds and respect their space!!!
teadrinkerxyz — Google review
Do not miss this beautiful, well preserved ranch! You could easily spend 2+ hours here. Very popular for class field trips. Since there is a dirt parking lot (with at least 4 handicap spaces) they do close after heavy rains. Best to call ahead to see if they are open. Numerous clean, modern restrooms. Paths for wheelchairs are clearly marked. Areas for picnics are available to reserve, too. There are some elevation changes but manageable for most. Don't miss!
James Bray — Google review
Wow! So much history. The architecture and landscaping is exquisite 👌. They even have orange, lemon, and lime trees. The aroma fills the air! Peacocks are walking around free. This place was everything!!! I got to see where actor extrodonaire Clarke Gable laid his head. Just wonderful!
REALtalk Renata TV — Google review
We like this place. It's not a super long visit, bit the grounds are fun and there are plenty unique things to explore and see. Lots of neat plants, buildings, and some light walking. The attendants are friendly. Short video to familiarize yourself with what it was about. Might be a nice place to visit with a picnic :)
David Borough — Google review
Peaceful historic ranch located just a tad west of San Marcos, south of Vista. Visited here for my first time attending friend’s wedding so the review is heavily tilted towards the set up of the wedding. Set up of the outdoor ceremony was wonderful and well organized and all of the staffs were very kind. The place had a lot of sign boards explaining the history of the ranch, animals & plants on the property etc. It’s a surprising find tucked away in Carlsbad residential area.
Masa Guchi — Google review
Amazing stop! Worth the drive up from San Diego! My family and I love history, and all the employees and volunteers were lovely and knowledgeable! The short film in the Visitors Center was a nice surprise as well! Beautiful place to explore with lots of history.
A Heal — Google review
A nice peaceful walk around the ranch. It's always nice to come here to visit and remember the history. This year plants look really healthy with the heavy rain 🥰
Cool Desert Breeze — Google review
Historic buildings.The area is beautiful,calm and peaceful.Its great for families to walk around. Beautiful peacocks are a feast to the eyes
Achu Saria Abraham — Google review
A very cute historical park that is not too far from San Diego and along the drive. If you are driving from Los Angeles. The park does not really feature any animals, they do have a fake replica of a horse and some imagery of peacocks so I think there was maybe more animals at times? It looks like it would be a beautiful venue and would be really amazing! The historical aspect is really cool and they do a really amazing job! Go check it out!
Glen Morris — Google review
This is a GEM of Carlsbad history! Very cool! Its a leisurely walk for the most part. Building are spread apart so theres a bit of a walk to see everything. No dogs. Visitors center staff were friendly and informative! We didnt go durring tour times so I cant review on that. Theres (I believe free) historical and botanical tours available. We intend to go back for those. Recommended!
Jesse Grenfell — Google review
Great tour, very quiet the day we were there. The young lady that was the tour guide was very knowledgeable! We had a great time!
Debbie Nielsen — Google review
I didn't see a single peacock here. This place is on tightly-packed dirt, so your shoes and the bottom of your pants will get dirty. You can see the historic home of the original owner, but sadly, you cannot go inside as they are locked and closed. You only see them from the outside. There is nothing to do here other than walk under the sun (hardly any shade), and that's it. They do have nice, clean bathrooms. I wouldn't recommend this place. Definitely not a fun place for kids, either, in my opinion. You can walk through this whole place in 15 minutes. The best part, for me, was seeing the plants.
Alexandra — Google review
Park offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical charm, the scenic surroundings and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit gem along the California coast
Kashyap Parekh — Google review
Beautiful grounds, lovely flora, fruit trees and fauna, many of which have a placard to denote what it is. A few out buildings to explore and staff on site. Picnic areas. Quick and easy walk from parking lot. Handicap and stroller accessible. Clean bathrooms. Recycling/trash bins. Free parking, free entry.
L T — Google review
Nice, quiet, historical area to visit. Tons of interesting historical information throughout the park.
Gary Roehm — Google review
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6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln, Carlsbad, CA 92009, USA
Torrey Pines State Beach is a long stretch of sand on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean with restrooms, showers and picnic areas. The north section is for families while the south has waves for surfing and sunbathing.
Stopped by on the way to San Diego to get some fresh air and check out the views. Walked into the beach area since found street parking on Carmel Valley Road and heard the parking lot once you enter the state park is a bit pricey. Went after the rains so there was quite a bit of runoff and rocks on the walkways so shoes was helpful when walking around. Will visit again when the weather is a lot warmer 🤙
P RANNA — Google review
I have been going once a week for a hike and some killer views. They have a lot of great trails for hikers, and a paved road for those just looking for that ocean view.
It’s a moderately steep climb up on a mix of pavement and trails, and then dirt/sand/rock trails down to the beach on the other side. Don’t wear sandals. Seriously don’t. Solid shoes needed. Also note if you take the beach trail back to the parking area, it’s is rocky the whole at when the tide is coming in. It’s easy to slip around, and you will want to either have strong ankles to avoid a sprain or solid hiking shoes to support you.
Parking - I recommend parking on one of the roads near Bird Rock / Roberto’s tacos and then walking over to the beach area. The only other free parking is along the beach and it’s so limited and very competitive. You can park in one of the nearby lots but it costs $15 and I never want to spend that for an hour or two for my empty car to sit still. Plus you get some extra steps in for the day :)
Warning - when they say that the beach trail from the peak to the beach gets slippery, they are not joking. I fell pretty hard last week on the slippery sand near the end of the trail where it turns into concrete, angled stairs. Hold onto the rocks along the side and go slow, even if you are steady on your feet.
Totally worth it you come prepared! The view is amazing up there.
Jordyn Goffo — Google review
Best beach in San Diego for nice moderate hiking and beautiful scenic view.Hiked more than ten times and still I loving it.
Ravi Dhungel — Google review
We have visited Torrey Pines State Park and beach a few times. It is a very beautiful area with the cliffs and ocean. There are different hiking trails that you can explore with great views. The beach is nice and has good waves for surfing and boogie boarding. My kids especially like this beach because the water always seems slightly warmer than the other beach we go to.
S C — Google review
The ocean is beautiful!
The water was very cold, I did go wading in the water and collected some rocks and shells! It was a good experience!
Tor Capson — Google review
Great stop..long beach to walk and let family run and stretch the legs. Many nice rocks, plenty of area to sit and spread from people
Zach Gordon — Google review
We visited this awesome beach on Sunday, and there's a kid left for the 🌊. I took some pics, and I'm honored to post for him. This is for you, kid!! 💗spread love💗.,
Read Letty — Google review
Awesome place to walk on the beach or hike uphill for a bit of a challenge. Clean and well maintained rest rooms. It’s surprising how many people go thru this walking area on a day. It is clean and has fabulous views. Best time to walk along the beach is near low tide as the cliff looms large along the east side. Water remains fairly shallow towards the west side beach. The westerly view goes on forever. Lots of pretty rocks and shells. Easy walking. Lovely on a sunny day!! Well worth buying an annual pass to assure accessible parking if you go often.
Bonnie Harms — Google review
Visiting the area and wanted a family-friendly beach with views. This delivers because it's only a few steps with a railing to get down to the beach. Didn't see a ramp, but railings, bathrooms, lifeguard, and close parking made it great for access if other cliffside beaches are hard to get down to.
Sarah Petri — Google review
This has been my favorite beach in San Diego for all my life. I go here with my dad to fish in the summer time. There is a South lot and a north lot, segregated by the lagoon. We get the annual pass (~$200/year) so we go very often, but daily parking can be a bit pricey if I remember correctly. The South lot gives access to the Torrey Pines State Park where there are many trails to hike and a visitor's center and gift shop. The North beach is generally less busy but both are excellent to walk on and go into the water. Will always come back again!
Paige C — Google review
Favorite beach. Great for walking. Pro tip: Wear rain boots during low tide to comfortably along the shore.
Tasha Nicole — Google review
Stunning beaches and hikes for amazing views. Well worth the visit. No place like it in San Diego.
Nicole Lapeyrolerie — Google review
Amazing landscape and spectacular sunset view. Beaches are not that clean but lot of surfers. Several spots to sit and get mesmerized by the gorgeous view. Plenty of parking spot but not portable fountain for drinking water. From the top to the beach is a steep slope with stairs and coming back at the top from beach is such a tedious task. Walking at beach during sunset is serene. It's walkable distance from UCSD, one should not miss when in La Jolla.
Ashutosh Shandilya — Google review
Amazing landscape and a spectacular place to behold the sunset! I'm glad we made it here. The beach was clean and well maintained, lots of rocks and shellfish here and there. The hike from the top of the hill down to the beach was fun (a little steep at times, so watch your step). There isn't really a lot of free parking available during peak hours so either plan ahead or be ready for paid parking inside.
Arunabha Mitra — Google review
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California, USA
I'll never travel to San Diego without this trip planner again
The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a large, undeveloped stretch of coastline on the Southern California coast. The park features rugged landscapes, including forests and beaches, and is home to a variety of animals, including dolphins and bobcats. The reserve is easy to get to and features convenient parking.
Torrey Pines State Reserve has some of my favorite hiking near San Diego proper. The landscape is amazing with the vast amounts of erosion and shrubs in the area surrounding the beach. I love taking the west overlook and taking the trails down to the beach from exploring in that area. Get there early since parking fills up fast. This is a great place for a quick day hike!
Jeremy Janus — Google review
We took our family that just flew in from Germany to take in these beautiful views. They loved it. A lot of people where there. The views are stunning. Weather wise was perfect for the hike. Parking is $25 and the line seemed to move extremely slow. But it’s definitely worth going. But I believe there is parking outside if you are lucky and patient enough to keep driving around.
Angelika McKinney — Google review
Beautiful beach park with lots of trails to walk around on. Going down to the beach is a bit challenging as there's more than 100 steps, but shouldn't be too much of an issue. Just note that the next beach over is a nudist beach so you might see some naked people
Jacob Teeter — Google review
One of my favorite spots to walk/hike and relax at the beach. I never try to find the free parking, just use the south lot and pay $15 during the week and $20 on weekend. Bathrooms and sinks with soap and water. Nice hike - can adjust length by adding loops. Love the beach trail. Clean beach, rarely over-crowded. Saw a group of dolphins, even!
Dedina W — Google review
Amazing state park and reserve! There is a $20 fee to enter the park by car which is well worth it. Alternatively you can find a free parking spot close to the park and just walk into it along the beautiful beach. I would recommend taking a free natural walk tour at 10am. Our volunteer guides, Steve and Leigh were amazing and super knowledgeable!! They knew a lot about the park, its inhabitants and plants. Loved the walk! Also amazing trails. Loved Guy Fleming overlook with whale and dolphin watching spot, and beach trail which leads to the beautiful beach!!
Volodymyr Korsun — Google review
It was a great place to hike. Beaches were beautiful as usual. I loved the sunset cliffs more than this. Parking was busy but we did find a spot. Restrooms were decent. Plenty of crowd on a Saturday. So, slightly tough to enjoy peacefully. Also, has a 20$ entry fee. Not as good as sunset cliffs but alright I guess!
Venkatesh Prabhu — Google review
Spectacular, amazing and stunning views!!!
If you are visiting SD or haven’t visited this place yet, this is a must!
When you get to the top there are few hiking trails with different miles to choose. The most popular is Beach trail which brings you down to the beach and walk you straight to your car😃
Parking next to the park is hard and can take you time but it’s not impossible sometimes we do have those lucky times. There is a lot of parking around maybe 0.50m away or you can pay 20$ parking for the day😜
Susan G — Google review
This state Park is amazing, never gets old. I don't mind paying a $20 fee to park at the gate, well worth it. Great customer service, clean trail, clean beach and plenty restroom... Loll... Please note, no dogs aloud, but again it is a great experience... A little over 2 miles if you take the beach pathway or over 4 miles if you decide to walk up to the beach then go back up towards "the road" or Torrey pines lodge. They have done an incredible job by adding a new trail and fixing the stairs going down the beach. 5 star hike by the water.
christelle tachon — Google review
Excellent hiking trails! Due to having small children we opted to pay the $25 to park at the parking lot at the top of the hill and walk down from there to the beach instead of trying to find free parking and walking up the hill. FYSA, they do not accept a military discount or the national parks pass. There are bathrooms at the top and bottom of the hill although the top bathrooms were closed and they just had porta potties. The beach trailer was about 2 miles round trip and takes you down the beach. We were able to do it with our small children without any issues. The path is fairly wide for most of the areas.
Matt Wittkopp — Google review
My favorite hike close to home. You will need to pay for parking (if you don’t have a state park pass) and can park at the bottom and walk up or there is a small parking lot up the hill. The path is easy to walk through but will get your heart pumping. Accessibility to the beach will depend on the tide.
Stay away from the side of the cliffs if you’re walking on the beach. I’ve seen them fall and it can be scary.
Kikumi Phelps — Google review
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is an absolute gem! From the moment I stepped foot on the trails, I was in awe of the breathtaking views and pristine natural beauty. The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of difficulty levels, catering to both casual strollers and avid hikers alike. The towering Torrey pine trees and coastal vistas create a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for reconnecting with nature. The staff is friendly and informative, providing helpful insights about the flora and fauna. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure.
Camila Espino — Google review
Beautiful state Park for hiking regardless of your fitness level. Beautiful trails through woody and arid areas with amazing views over the whole San Diego shoreline. Many nice places to take a short break and sit down. One trails ends up to beach access and there is a small visitor center showing the native species. Worth a half day or day visit. Also no entrance fee.
Ali Stone — Google review
One of the most amazing spots in San Diego County with beautiful trails and stunning views.
Watch the most spectacular sunsets, while dolphins are chasing the waves below. Intricate sandstone shapes created by the water and wind give this park a unique charm and the indigenous plants and flowers are an attraction of their own.
Walk all the way down to the beach and enjoy the waive-carved colorful rocks.
To avoid paying for parking and admission, park across from the golf course and walk to the park.
Portable toilets are available and are always kept nice and clean.
Don't leave San Diego without visiting Torrey Pines!
Anatoly Petkov — Google review
Our favourite place in San Diego.
There are any trails from easy to moderate. We take longer one and take detour to smaller ones between. Nice activity for couples who likes to stay active and healthy like us.
Monica Banavase Somashekara — Google review
A great beach with easy access , clean bathrooms and trails. We went towards the end of the day around 3pm so there was parking. If you go in the morning, it’s gets full fast and people park along the road to avoid paying the 15$ daily use. You can enter and park or drive up to the visitor center. The beach has nice mix of black sand and beach sand and few round river rock. Tide pool is short of a mile walk from life guard tower one at flat rock but you need to go during low tide or you can’t access during high tide. It’s not too crowded and lots of open space
Jeffery Kong — Google review
Gorgeous views of the ocean and natural scenery. We paid $18 for parking at the entrance and drove up to the visitor center parking lot. Friendly staff at the center and informative exhibits. We took the Flat Rock Beach trail and it was super easy with kids. Mostly downhill with a few steps. Zero shade, and though the beach was a welcome sight on a hot day we had no relief….no marine layer just hot wind! Despite the heat we decided to make a loop to the North fork Trailhead via Broken Hill Trail. I’d call this moderate as it was all uphill. Once we got to the junction it was flat all the way back to the visitor center. 2.2 miles in all and the kids were tired and sweaty but triumphant.
Really beautiful scenery and plant life. Bring water!
Alvin Gogineni — Google review
Really nice natural reserve! Pretty busy on a Sunday morning but worth it for sure. We did the beach loop trail and walked from the north beach lot. It was around 4 miles and moderate difficulty. The views from the top are really wonderful and the terrain is cool. We went to yucca pt at the top and the view is beautiful. The cliffs along the beach on the way back are also really beautiful. We did see small debris falling so stay aware.
Sara Valderrama — Google review
It’s just gorgeous! The view is stunning! I think it’s the best state park in CA. The guided tour is a must have if you are first time visitor. We really enjoyed the two-hour ( it’s supposed to be one hour) tour guided by Gary. He’s so knowledgeable and made the tour such a pleasure. This park is a pure gem which is so special and unique in Southern California. It recalls me of those beautiful coastal areas in Northern California. It’s a must go in Southern California.
Diana R — Google review
This was a fun little day hike. Ended up walking 2.8 miles through some trails a few hills and then brought you down to the beach. Where are you finished a hike back to the parking area.
When we started, it was pretty overcast, but by the time we got back to the parking area, it had burned off and was pretty nice.
I would consider this an easy hike, but there are a few challenges with some stairs and a couple hills.
Scot Meeker — Google review
The Torrey Pines trail hike in San Diego was an absolute delight. Nestled beside the scenic beach, the trail offered breathtaking views that took my breath away. The rugged cliffs, the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and the vibrant coastal flora created a picturesque backdrop for the entire journey. The trail was well-maintained, making the hike enjoyable for both beginners and experienced hikers. The cool breeze from the ocean and the soothing sound of the waves provided a calming ambiance throughout the hike. I was particularly impressed by the diversity of the landscape, from sandy paths to rocky terrains, offering a varied hiking experience. The sighting of local wildlife, including birds and plants unique to the region, added an extra layer of charm to the adventure. Overall, the Torrey Pines trail hike was a memorable experience, perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to escape into the serenity of the coastal wilderness.
Sajjad Raeisi — Google review
I went to Torrey Pines to take a walk on the Guy Fleming Trail. Fairly easy trail, although not wheelchair-friendly. Beautiful overlook over the beaches and surrounding nature.
20 dollars was a bit much for the one hour I was there. If you go there to stay on the beach the entire day, you get enough value.
Nicki Lolk Sørensen — Google review
Nice hike with ocean views. We parked just before the entrance to the park and had a short uphill walk to start the hike. The trail was clearly marked and could be done in a loop, or you can finish the hike on the beach and walk back to the parking lot. We opted the beach route so we did not have to back track. We didn’t see any snakes but saw a spider that was capable of eating a small child.
K P — Google review
Lovely hike with incredible views all the way! The razor back formations are one of a kind and super pretty. Overall the walk isn’t too strenuous but well worth the views. When you are down on the beach make sure to see flat rock and check out the tide pools.
EB — Google review
Great State Beach and State Park! Nice trails to choose from in the Nature Reserve area!! I like the fact that there is no trash bins which doesn’t invite trash! Really nice trails and views for a good whole day to spend walking in and around.
PJ — Google review
I didn’t purchase tickets online and it cost me $15 at the gate for a daily pass. I went on a Monday morning and there were plenty of parking spaces once inside the gate. All of the trails are pretty short and moderate. My favorite one was the Razor Point trail. Great views of the cliff side and a nice 180 degree view of the shore. The Parry Grove trail was also a good one. Spent about 2 hours in the park and was able to do most of the shorter trails. Beautiful blue water down here compared to LA.
Aliza Brown — Google review
I love this State Natural Reserve hike! It’s definitely worth it to walk all the way down to see the beach. It’s a bit of a walk, probably around 5-7 miles of hiking. You can start from the Torrey pines golf course and finish at the Torrey Pine beach if you wanted too. The scenery is amazing and the views are gorgeous! I highly recommend people to hike this trail. It’s mainly flat until to get to the beach part.
Steven Yang — Google review
What a lovely park. The entry price is a bit high at $15. The paths are well maintained. Lots of volunteers to help with education and advice. The lady at the car pay booth was adorable.
Ninette — Google review
I loved this area. It was very peaceful. We lucked out and didn’t have to pay for parking but there are paid parking spots. There is a beach below that has a good amount of stretch. However, on top you’ll get these spectacular views that are unmatched. It wasn’t very crowded when we went either. This was one of the reasons why I love this city so much. Beautiful weather, perfect temperature, and that nice cool breeze. Wear sturdy sneakers when going down. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Nicholas P — Google review
Visited this park on Jan 1st. Parked inside, there were plenty of parking spots inside @9.30am. there were a lot of people. We did almost all of it including the smaller loops inside except for the coastal trail. By the time we reached the coastal part it was nearing high tide and we thought of not doing it and returned. From one lookout in the Guy Fleming Grove, we saw multiple pods of dolphins! It's my first time seeing dolphins. Torrey pines are also a highlight here along with many other native plants. Must do while in SD.
Evelyn Paulose — Google review
Beautiful views and lovely hikes!
There’s a little cottage towards the top that is a museum about the wildlife.
You can park at the bottom and hike up, or park at the top and hike down and back up. The street parking along the road is free, but sometimes hard to come by.
The hikes can take as little as you want them to last depending on how far you go.
Black's Beach is a clothing optional beach located under the bluffs of Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego County, California. The beach is known for its stunning views of La Jolla and San Diego's coastal towns as well as the gliders soaring high above the water. It can be difficult to reach, but the remoteness is one of the reasons that people love it.
What a great beach - and everyone is naked and enjoying them selfs in the sun - I personally do not know how they do it is chilly and windy and slippery and the path goes right down and you could go right with it ... I feel like this place might be a great place to see because when you look at it you think - ONE GOOD EATHQUAKE - really that is all it wil ltake...
But for now its so amazing and what a great view ... from the top ... but as you stroll down the narrow and rocky path it might be a bit dangerous .. we went and we the slippery people only almost fell off the side a few time and we made it out just fine ... I would say as a handicapped person it is not so accessible - But if you can almost walk and have plenty of time then maybe but would be careful .. I am not to sure a service dog would work here maybe but my Service dog would likely not save my life as he would likely go off the cliff with me in tow - So would not say this is a good beach for any dog ... but because of its hike ... they say there is other trails that might make it easier but ... I think the one time I went was enough but .. for all you trail blazers this might be the place for you ...
So pretty!!! Thanks mother nature for making this spot - BTW the sunsets in the parking lot are great... seen some RV life people there as well as VAN people - but would keep it to a minimum as the Police patrol this space ... and if it gets nuts I am sure they will cut it out right away!!!
Thad Ferguson — Google review
The hike down is exhausting, and the hike back up is even more exhausting, but this beach is worth it. It really is one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve seen in my life. I stayed for the sunset and I wasn’t disappointed.
If it weren’t for the hike that you need to do to get to the bottom, I’d be there every single weekend.
Adam Bou Hamdan — Google review
Be warned this is a Clothing Optional Beach and has both straight and gay sun bathers. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in all of San Diego. The water is blue and the sand feels amazing. Always watch for stingrays by shuffling your feet under the sand as you walk as they can be in as little as 6"in of water.
robert — Google review
A beautiful beach, once you have made it down the 384 steps you will be impressively rewarded, you should definitely take something to drink with you because you have to climb all the steps back up, which can be tiring for some people. This place is very popular at sunset, so parking can be tight. There are a number of restaurants all around so there is something for every taste.
Alexander Amend (Alex) — Google review
It was actually super nice! If you plan it a little, you can even have some awesome "hikes" on your route. Definitly a must see if you want a chill beach in SD.
Tom Z?hlke — Google review
Good for hikes and a perfect place to watch sunset. Hikes can be exhausting but it's a nice experience and definitely not a kid friendly beach ;)
Rohini M — Google review
Beautiful, wild beach with plenty of activity. The hike down the cliff to the beach is decently easy with gorgeous views all around—just be prepared for stairs. Lots of parking but fills up quickly on a nice day. There are surfers, fishermen, paragliders, and nude beach goers. Good place to tan without tan lines. Much fun! Be careful of creepy old men though, haha it’s about what you’d expect. Most people are just out here doing their own thing though, which is nice. The food vendor by the Torrey pines gliderport sucks, would recommend spending some extra bucks on a local hole in the wall off the beach. Enjoy this La Jolla treasure!
Ying Liang — Google review
BEWARE OF TRAFFICKING. The beach itself is gorgeous but for some reason this beach is a hot spot for traffickers. Twice now I’ve been approached and followed by people I would identify as groomers. Fake “for sale” cars parked in the lot. And weird men hiding around the brush on the trail who follow close and stare. One man fully dressed not in any beach attire, gold watch and dark sweats just standing and watching women while smoking a cigar. He stood right next to my towel just openly staring at me. He moved further away when I got on the phone with my dad. But he never stopped staring. This is not me being suspicious of someone because of race. I’m nearly 100% sure that he was scouting. He Looked like he was out of place yet there for a specific purpose. I did not like his body language at all. I decided to leave and he got on the phone as soon as I stood up. I’m almost certain they have 1 guy down below hunting and he just phones his partner who’s waiting and watching for women coming up that trail. It looks like there’s only 1 way in and 1 way out. Lots of hiding spots. I’ve been harassed twice now which is every time I’ve been here.. when I finally got up to my car a different dude who looked younger knocked on my window and asked me if I wanted to “hangout” when I wouldn’t roll down my window he continued to stand there and wait. I’m 100% there is human trafficking rings operating out here at blacks beach. Check your car for tags, any weird markings and watch your surroundings. I will never come back alone.
Alexa Jackson — Google review
Hike was challenging. You need to invest in good hiking shoe. Very steep. View is spectacular and work the challenging hike. Be aware it’s a nu** beach. Lots of surfer and friendly hikers. Be sure to carry enough water to hydrate yourself. It’s not very clean like La Jolla cove beach
Archu G — Google review
Beautiful beach. Have to hike down the hill to get into this beach. Lots of nude gentlemen and ladies chilling on this beach. Good hiking exercise. It takes about 20 mins down the hill and 25-30 mins up the hill. The way up is a bit tiring due to the steepness. A lot of people coming with surfboard. The have to carry down and up hill with the surfboard. Obviously great place to surf. Overall very nice and different beach to visit. No water. No bathroom. No tan lines.
Double Floor — Google review
My favorite nude beach on the West Coast. Very chill crowd, wonderful sand, paragliding overhead. Be sure to take care for the sting rays in the water - shuffle your feet along the ground so you don't get badly injured.
Robert Davis — Google review
It was my first time going and I arrived around 8AM and a good amount of people were already making there way down to the beach. Going down the many MANY steps was fairly easy even with my large photography backpack. Once on the beach I found a spot a ways down the coast then ate an edible and relaxed for a few hours. I was starting to feel the effects of the edible creep on me so I decided I should go before it was too intense. As I made my way back to stairs to ascend I noticed something peculiar a naked man! I thought my eyes were deceiving me as he was the only one but as I came close more naked men appeared! What a pleasant surprise that was, but I had another unforeseen event take place. Nearly half 3/4s of the way up the edible was hitting much more I felt incredibly dizzy with a cold sweat. Until I had no other choice but to sit on the side of the trail and throw up while entire families walked by. Nice beach overall though.
Matty — Google review
Simply gorgeous beach. This place encapsulates the beauty of San Diego. The waves, sky, and sunset. Come check this gem out
Brandon Leuangpaseuth — Google review
This beach is a great beach. It's a nude beach (optional) So warning if you are easily offended. Beach was clean and with beautiful black sand. The climb down and up was well exhausting, but worth it. You have to climb down a mountain and back up. Everyone minded their own business. Lots to see here. There is plenty of free parking depending on what time you get there.
Karen Schuetze — Google review
A very nice beach one of the nicest I've been to. It's a interest hike down and up shouldn't be too bad if you are an active person. PLEASE for the love of all things holy dont bring your children it is not family friendly. It is a clothing optional beach. There is paragliding at the top of the ridgeline and you can see the city far off in the distance. Beautiful place.
Nicholas Kujawski — Google review
It is a trek down which I was able to do slowly in crocs. Due to the sand,certain areas are slippery when coming down so go at a pace comfortable for you. Going up was more tough than coming down but once you get to the beach it is all worth it!
K B — Google review
I am so glad I read the reviews and actually paid attention! We wore good shoes for rough walking. The hike down and up is quite the challenge. The time spent on the beach was well worth it! My wife and I had a wonderfully relaxing time laying and walking on the beach. Very laid back and not crowded at all. Lots of smiles and friendly people. Be sure to save water for the trip back up the hill !
The Torrey Pines Gliderport in San Diego is a popular spot for hang gliding and parasailing with stunning views of the coast and ocean. In addition to this activity, guests also have the opportunity to learn how to fly paragliders or tandem flights.
This place is awesome, we took a Falconry class with Dave and the other lady but I forgot her name. These is a private property and you cannot just walk in, you have to either be with the Falcon chickens or flying the parachute thingies there. The falconry classes can be found at Total Raptor Experience.
jorge corbaton — Google review
The glider port at Torrey Pines is an amazing place to experience the beauty of the Southern California coastline. The location offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, and is a popular spot for hang gliding and paragliding enthusiasts. The launch ramp provides a perfect launching spot for those seeking an adrenaline-fueled flight.
The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more enjoyable. They provide all necessary equipment, including gliders and harnesses, and offer instruction for beginners. The glider port also offers tandem flights for those who want to experience the thrill of hang gliding without the commitment of learning how to fly solo.
The facilities at the glider port are well-maintained and clean, providing a safe and comfortable environment for visitors. There are also several picnic tables and grills available for those who want to enjoy a picnic or BBQ while taking in the stunning views.
Overall the glider port at Torrey Pines is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the excitement of hang gliding or paragliding. The staff, equipment, and breathtaking views make it a truly unforgettable experience.
regis kwong — Google review
Did not glide today as there was a 130 lb weight limit due to weak winds (next time we will call first). Extremely affordable gift shop! That was impressive! Friendly, knowledgeable staff. There is food but burgers and dogs. So fun just to watch!
Stacie T — Google review
Amazing location with an amazing view. Great food on site. Everyone is so friendly in the area and parking is free. We all know how hard it is to find parking in San Diego. If you want to go to the beach you can hike all the way to the water from the glide port. I just hope you are able to make it back up.
James “Chubster11” Himes — Google review
A spectacular sight as we watched them glide down the cliffs. There was plenty of parking space when we arrived close to noon. Next to it is a hike down to Black Beach which can be a challenge to some but it's worth the exercise as we relaxed by the beach.
Kim Wang — Google review
First of all, people who works here are absolutely amazing ⭐️what an amazing soulful atmosphere! Thank you for such an incredible experience and time with You! Thank you for the memories you gave us and for the wonderful support and care you gave our little one during the flight! There will be a thousand of people flying with you but for us you will be a memory for whole life 🪂
Lucy I am — Google review
This is one of the top spots I always take people when they visit San Diego! It’s best at sunrise and sunset. There is always plenty of parking, and they have a bar and coffee shop so you can enjoy a drink while you watch hang-gliders fly.
There are hiking trails that connect from this gliderport that you can also take from here. Some go down to the beach, and some go to other nearby peaks.
Jess Lin — Google review
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Torrey Pines in San Diego and it was an experience that I will never forget! The views from the top of the cliff were absolutely breathtaking and the trails were well-maintained and easy to navigate. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the park was kept clean and free of litter. I highly recommend this park for anyone looking for a great place to explore and enjoy nature. 4 stars!
shirish kamat — Google review
The Gliderport never disappoints. One of these days I'll sign up for a tandem flight. However, in the meantime, we visit several times a year and enjoy lunch and the view. The seating and food preparation areas have improved, allowing a leisurely lunch while watching paragliders take flight and land. An outdoor pizza oven was added, but couldn't tell if it was in operation the afternoon we were there. Highly recommend this place for local and out-of-towners. It used to be that you could bring your own sack lunch and sit and it, but they now have signs indicating no outside food may be brought into the seating area. We share a burger and fries. Ordered another plate of fries as they were so good.
Sue Martindale — Google review
Went here for Total Raptor experience, be sure to book ahead of time it's AMAZING and one of the few ways outside of being a registered pilot to enter the field. Be aware of the rules ie don't walk on the grass area--just DON'T! It's for your safety and frankly your terrible cell phone photo ain't worth getting hurt or worse hurting one of the pilots who is trying to avoid hitting you (I saw so SO many people thinking they could sneak out to grab a selfie 🙄) you'll get a stern warning trust me they don't mess around, be aware of the signs/areas, the risks and wear extra sunscreen. There's a small shop that sells sandwiches, refreshments but bathrooms are porta potties in the parking lot. I recommend parking farther away and walking or ubering over as the lot fills quickly on nice days. Such a great venue to enjoy the ocean, the paragliders and the amazing views (and hang with some winged friends for an afternoon!)
Kate S. — Google review
This was an amazing experience! This is a must see if you are visiting South California. The gliders lift off and land in an area very near the observation area. In addition, there is an overlook area where the gliders zip past the edge of the cliffs with the ocean in the background. Truly an experience we will cherish.
Scott Higdon — Google review
Great location. Sightseeing.
Portable restroom.
Parking on dirt.
Walking is great and easy here.
LAZARO HERRERA — Google review
I recently visited this beach, and it offers a unique experience for surf enthusiasts. The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular spot for riders looking to catch some waves.
One advantage of this beach is the ample parking available, which is often a rarity at popular coastal destinations. It's a convenience that can make your visit more enjoyable, especially if you're hauling surfboards or beach gear.
However, it's important to note that there's a significant drawback to this beach. The walk up and down to the beach can be quite challenging due to steep inclines or rugged terrain. This may pose difficulties for some visitors, particularly those with mobility issues or families with young children.
In summary, if you're a dedicated surfer seeking great waves and plenty of parking, this beach could be a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout when navigating the terrain to get to and from the water.
Ethan Wehman — Google review
We did not go up, but it sure was fun to stop and watch all the fun people were having there on the cliffs. It was a beautiful day and there were smiles all around - beautiful scenery. We contemplated but there was somewhere else we had to be. Would love to go back and try.
Theresa St. John — Google review
Great views and was able to see the para gliders here! The walks down the steps lead to apparently a nudist beach. Felt cold up top by the cliffs so bring sweaters!
Ethell Yarbrough — Google review
It's very nice views are overwhelming. I don't like that they have port-a-potties 🤮 the seating are needs revamped metal High chairs are not it. The food vendors seem ok I didn't order anything.Lots of bees so be careful, we visited in October and there was tons around the glideport viewing area. The parking lot was spacious lots of places to park just be careful people don't pay attention when backing up (I prevented an accident. Had to lay on the horn so this guy didn't Backup into this other car). Walking around the grounds 😵 lots of steep & narrow paths and uneven paths. I'd highly recommend wearing some decent tennis shoes. Not flip flops I seen this guy wearing some and I was floored. I personally wouldn't recommend bringing kids to any of the paths its definitely not safe for little ones (or strollers, etc) I did see a dad with his child in a backpack type of thing which was nice but with how narrow the paths are I'd not recommend it.
Eric B. — Google review
Fun place to experience the freedom of flying...gliding. Very relaxing. Incredible views of the Southern California coast, especially the cliffs that you won't see other places. Bar service, food, and picnic tables make it a natural place to hang out and enjoy a couple of hours in the sun. Port o potties have ALWAYS BEEN DISCUSTING. Bring your own wipes.
Christi Webb — Google review
We did this for my wife’s birthday. If you call the phone number at the glider port desk they will let you know if it’s windy enough to fly well and how busy the line is. We were up in the air for about 20 minutes and each had our own pilot but they flew close enough together that we could smile and see each other in the air! My guide was very skillful and went closer to the cliffs while my wife’s stayed high in the sky since she was more nervous. We landed back on the same spot we took off from right by the desk and bathrooms. During the flight there was a photographer that took these awesome photographs.
Levi Renninger — Google review
What a great experience. The 20 mins up in the air is the perfect amount of time and we got two great guides.
Didn’t get the photos or videos which was fine because the ones we took on our own were cool.
Kristina Bolt — Google review
This was the highlight of my trip to San Diego, and I did it on a whim. I am so glad I did! Christo, my tandem paraglider instructor, made me feel so comfortable! Do it! Do it! If it didn’t cost money, I will do it again!
gladys Aakre — Google review
Went on a Wednesday and there were about 5 paragliding sails taking off and landing. Peaceful activity to watch. Parking was really full though.
Lisa Mcclure — Google review
Beautifull sunrise spot. Be ready for some stairs and some elevation when climbing back up. Great spot, everyone has been friendly.
Tamara Cooper — Google review
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2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
Located in the San Pasqual Valley, this state historic park commemorates the 1846 Battle of San Pasqual. The visitor center offers a movie about the battle as well as educational materials about Mexican-American War history. There is also a nature trail that takes visitors through scenic terrain with several picnic areas.
Love having this monument to our history. The location has been closed since the start of COVID, yet you’re still able to access the hikes. Intrigued to learn more about this location and my advice is to visit the archeology center next door, they are kind enough to provide information about the battle fought here when they have time.
Jery — Google review
#exploringmyworld #wilinwithwiley
This is an excellent spot to teach history in a place based educational approach. It is a sobering reminder of the cost of war regardless of reasons. Today it is a breathtaking landscape of grassy plains and majestic hills. During the battle that this monument commemorates it was a gory bloody scene that left many breathless!
#wilinwithwiley #exploringmyworld — Google review
Technically this is the highland valley trailhead and I think it leads into the San pasqual battlefield area. This is a great little hike! Good with kids and lots of ups and downs. Good stuff to look at the whole way and very close to the pomerado exit on the 15 freeway. We do this hike often, and if it's rained enough the stream is going! There's also a beehive over the bridge area that's pretty cool. There's parking in a dirt lot just off highland valley road
Summer Sandberg — Google review
I went to San Pasqual Battlefield State Historic Park on a day and time its website said it would be open and found nothing but locked gates. Personnel at the San Diego Archaeological Center down the street said the State Park has been closed since the start of Covid. A sign on the locked gates said the trails were open but parking wasn’t allowed. (You could probably park at the Archaeological Center.) If you plan on visiting the Park it’s probably in your best interest to call the number listed on the website to speak with a real person first. An updated website would work even better.
Craig Bellavance — Google review
There is a lot of potential here, as the historic site of a significant battle in the Mexican American War. However, my experience was a tale of three unfortunates: 1) There is no easy or allowed (?) access to the trails if the park is not open. There is a smaller dirt pull off and entry to the trail from the west end of Mule Hill. It is overgrown, but usable. 2) The trail itself is poorly maintained. There was grass, weeds, and even cacti over growing the trail in places. 3) The park is only open on SAT/SUN, presumably to save money. However, the park should find a way to enable people to hike on the trail regardless of if the office/visitor center is open.
I am currently a member of the 1st Cavalry Regiment, the unit whose heraldry dates to the 1st Dragoons, who fought this battle under the leadership of Gen. Kearny. I wish I lived closer, because I would gladly volunteer to help revitalize this site and maybe develop some signs to present the events that unfolded here.
Gary Klein — Google review
Actually a pretty cool spot. Tons of cactus. Extremely small though. The park is only half of the Butte and enclosed by a fence. It has one trail and a semi loop that connects on and off of it. Some cool history though and honestly some enjoyable views if you have an hour to go walk around I recommend it. The museum is closed unfortunately, as is the parking lot. There's a dirt pull off just before the parking lot, park at the pull off and you'll find the trailhead behind the monument.
Titan Storm — Google review
San Pasqual Valley is beautiful this time of year. The rain makes the hills green and the view from the trail behind the visitor center takes in the whole of the valley. The chaparral is healthy and growing, and there are usually many wild flowers along the trail.
Marci Trussell — Google review
Sad that this State Park hasn't been taken care of.
Kathy Stratton-Cheney — Google review
San Pasqual Museum presevers the historical significance of this valley during the USA Mexican war. The events that occur during this great battle are well represented in the artifacts and archives preserved in this museum.
R. “ViGo” GC — Google review
4.5
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4.0
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15808 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027, USA
Bernardo Winery is a long-standing winemaking complex in landscaped gardens with a tasting area, restaurants & art shows. The winery has been operating for over 130 years and grows Italian, Spanish and French varietals. They make wine in a collection of historic buildings and have a restaurant on site that opens up onto a patio right in the vineyards.
What a joyful and wonderful place to visit! It’s like a vineyard wonderland village. You can taste wines, you can eat foods and you can shop around. The wine here is very tasty, we tried their only sparkling wine here which I enjoyed it very much. It’s very crisp, light, and dry. The foods here are decent too, I loved their pizza. The decorations and atmosphere here are so good, I’ll bring my family and friends back here to taste wines and wander around.
LULU . LIVE — Google review
Visited this Diamond in the rough recently for a daytime driving event to celebrate a birthday. This place is very easy to find and is not far from the freeway exit. There is ample parking that is separated between a few lots on property. You will pass a few boutique shops as you drive in. Once you park and head in you feel like you’ve traveled back to a fancy western town. Quaint wooden buildings line small streets. They very Froom boutique clothing retailers, a sweet shop and a coffee roaster. There is a full restaurant on site and the tasting room is quite large. Lots of outside and inside seating at the tasting room. Glasses of most wines here are about $15, they have tasting flights which are a good deal and they give you discounts on take home bottles of the wines. Honestly the red sangria they serve in the tasting room is pretty amazing. Also you can share carafes of it which I highly recommend. The coffee shop and the sweet shop are fantastic. We didn’t get a chance to try the restaurant but everything looked great. We will be back for sure
Nick Bowan — Google review
This place is incredible. We had an office party here. We were having aome fun competition of the Wine formulation. Although, I don't drink but I had so much fun playing game. Wine smells great! Such a nice food and Staff. I would highly recommend this place foe the group event.
Amit Pandya — Google review
Beautiful winery! It feels like a small town with shops around. Plenty of parking and interesting signs with the history of wine making around the place. Get your wine at the Tasting room and food at the Kitchen. Smooth service, very friendly people.
JitkaKac — Google review
This place is a hidden gem! Plenty of things to do in the little village. We checked out the shops and vineyard, then had some wine and pizza. The pizza was ridiculously good and I am a HUGE pizza guy. I ordered the margarita pizza and the calabrese pizza (both delicious!). The Moscato was really good and we actually took a bottle home. 10/10 experience and we will most definitely return!
Josh — Google review
this place is awesome!! it’s so much fun for everyone. the gorgeous vineyards in the back are perfect for photos and just hanging out while the courtyard is just beautiful for everything else. the food is delicious, and so is the wine, of course. please visit this amazing place!!
addie gresiak — Google review
On Friday the winery comes alive! Farmers Market, although small, with local vendors with fruits, veggies, bread, gorgeous Italian table clothes, jewelries, and a fine restaurant , and of course delicious wines!
Miriam Todesco — Google review
I really like this place and its my Mothers favorite winery. Can be busy sometimes and difficult to get a table. But last time I visited their was plenty places to sit. Their ROSÈ Sangria is delicious. My sister loves the spaghetti meatballs with a passion. I like getting their boards and a flight of white wines. Also cool place to look at. A lot of history for those history buffs, beautiful gardens, and the rustic vibe is great..!
Alejandro Mejia — Google review
My boyfriend and I came here on vacation from Canada, and were super impressed with the character of the winery. It’s beautiful and welcoming, with tons of seating and little shops.
We visited the tasting room, and both employees working were kind, knowledgeable and welcoming, particularly Michelle. The wine was delicious, and since we aren’t wine experts we received lots of guidance about what to expect from each wine in our tasting.
I write this as I sit at the kitchen waiting for fresh pizza in the gorgeous California sunshine, I reflect on how wonderful this establishment is and how wonderful of an experience that was provided by all the staff, and strongly recommend this as a stop to anyone who enjoys a class of wine and an eclectic market. Absolutely stunning!
Nicki Van Eck — Google review
What a beautifully peaceful setting and old world Europe meets rustic country vibes! The wine is lovely and the service is even better! Cecily helped me out today and made recommendations based on my taste and they were all excellent. Plus you're surrounded by shops, plants, and a fountain all in this courtyard. Highly recommend!
Beth Roesler — Google review
Pro: close to residential areas; easy to access . Beautiful and artsy place to have coffee or stroll around. Good place to take some photos.
Con: food quality not so good. I didn’t expect delicious foods there but rotten salad is too much.
Nancy H California — Google review
I went to this winery for a wedding so there were additional flowers and decor everywhere but the place itself had a nice rustic farm style that made all the white flowers more beautiful. Greenery everywhere and a small fountain, this place was gorgeous yet simple. The food was delicious as well and we had some good wine. You can never go wrong with an Italian menu. Definitely a beautiful place to have an intimate wedding. They had a spacious bride and groom suite and umbrellas for each table to block that San Diego sun. I'd recommend it as an event venue.
Kelly — Google review
My goodness, what a wonderful little collection of shopping, wine, and amazing food. Friendly staff in the tasting room and the restaurant make dining a pleasure. The wood fired pizza both smells and tastes delicious. The charcuterie board was to notch. Insider tip. Stop by the tasting room to select your wine before heading to eat. They have good discounts on their wine as well.
Cami Ward — Google review
Didn't like wine. Staff was nice. Atmosphere interesting. Just wasn't for me. Charcuterie was OK...not the best... Did it gf by taking the crustinie off. Still quite spendy. Won't be going back but worth a visit to see.
Robin K. — Google review
Michelle (who happily self-proclaimed as a "Karen") kicked three families out of the winery because "children are no longer allowed"
My friends and I got to the winery and it was chilly outside. We saw two women leave their table (next to the only heater) and we moved over and patiently waited for staff to be available to clear the table. She came out and stated "great, you just sat yourself at the table (which is open seating) before staff cleaned it, cool" We had already shared with the waitress that there was absolutely no rush in cleaning and that we had moved over to be next to the heat. All night she kept coming to our table only (excluding any other families there that had children running around) to tell us the children need to be seated at all times. She eventually grabbed one of her poor workers and forced him to come tell us to leave. She came out smiling and you could tell uncomfortable he was. He even told us that it wasn't his choice and that she was the general manager and was making him. As someone who is a manager, I've never made my staff do my dirty work. She then went on to tell us she doesn't have kids and never wants them and offered a disgusted look to ours. She smiled and smiled as we talked to the manager. I asked for her name and she said "Michelle, actually it's Karen, I'm a Karen".
She had it in for our group the minute we arrived and it was so blatantly obvious that other customers made comments about it in small talk with our group.
We have come many times with our families and never had an issue, until meeting her. She was so unpleasant and smirked the entire time while forcing her employee to do the job she was hired to do. The worst kind of incompetent manager that takes the credit without doing any of the work.
Discrimination on the basis of parental status happens where a person is treated less favourably because of their parental status than someone without the same parental status in similar circumstances.
There are no signs or warnings at this establishment of a kid free policy. In fact, she walked past several kids on the way to us. She was hovering around us all night and made it so uncomfortable that other people noticed. I supposed if that's the kind of person this winery wants representing their name and their brand then they've won the lottery. It's so unfortunate that she would stand there and smile and keep walking back and being petty. I've never seen a person with such poor management skills, I almost wonder if this is an instance of nepotism or a pity hire. I hope she can be properly trained, I'm sure the winery values family people and this is a person who openly boasted about never wanting kids.
April Nipper — Google review
I visited with my husband for the first time on Sunday, and I will be going back very soon! The vineyard grounds are beautiful and historic. The atmosphere, music, decorations, everything was a historic farmhouse style that really blew me away. Along with your standard wine tasting you can get at any winery, Bernardo Winery also has food, beer, a museum, a clothing shop, candles, gelato, sweets, a coffee shop, olive oil, vinegar, pottery... It almost seems endless! If you're lucky you'll even be visited by the cats that live on the property! This would also be an absolutely beautiful wedding or party venue.
Gabrielle Cioffi-Dinkel — Google review
4.6
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4.5
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13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte, San Diego, CA 92128, USA
La Jolla Cove is a small beach located in La Jolla, California. It is often visited by divers and sunbathing enthusiasts. The cove features permanent lifeguard stations and picnic tables, as well as showers for visitors. There are also sea lions who reside near the beach.
Beautiful. A bucket list place to visit
Ryan — Google review
Beautiful place to walk along the coast or along on the coastal trail. Peaceful, beautiful place to relax, go for a swim, see the sea lions, pelicans, cormorants, listen to the ocean and see artists setup booths.
Donna McCray — Google review
An amazing spot to catch a whole number of birds, sea lions, seals, dolphins and if lucky, whales too. There's a nice lawn to have picnics and play around. There's a bunch of people going snorkeling in the coves as well. A must see spot on your visit to San Diego.
Chetan Suresh — Google review
A great place to watch seals, sea lions and sunset. Weekends are a bit crowded with tourists. You get to watch the seals pretty close up. There are also stalls selling merchandise and more.
Senji Laxme R Raghunath — Google review
Sat for hours and watched the sea lions. Remember to give them space, as they are wild animals and should stay that way. It was such a wonderful wind down time and entertaining.
Ashley Byars — Google review
Really beautiful area . There’s a lot to do, including riding the bird scooters, walking along the trails, swimming in the water (with the sea lions, beware) the cave store which sometimes has an extremely long line. Parking is tricky and it took us a while to find a spot.
L — Google review
Superb place for a family fun. Kids will enjoy the most. Watch Sea lions and birds. Parking could be tricky one. There is plenty of grass fields for kids to play in addition to the beach. Many people are going too close to the sea lions and disturbing them. It sad to see such acts. Despite many announcements people still get excited and do this to take pictures and videos. We watched sea lions bite a girl. So be careful you might get hurt. Restrooms and showers are there. Nice place to relax.
Nk S — Google review
Very beautiful and the seals&sea lions are sooo adorable!!
XP Liu — Google review
La Jolla Cove is an absolutely gorgeous area. The snorkeling is fantastic, can get a bit crowded near the the shore but plenty of room for all once you’re in the water. The views from above the shoreline are absolutely incredible. Great opportunity to get up close with sea lions and seals in their natural habitat. The views are absolutely stunning. If you’re in the area I highly recommend you cost.
The city itself is really cool too, small town feel with a bunch of shops and restaurants.
Dustin Weinbrecht — Google review
One of the most beautiful beaches in California! It was a nice walk along the beach seeing the different animals. Even saw a bunny. The showers and bathrooms were clean and well kept. Some local vendors to buy your memorabilia. So peaceful. So relaxing. I didn’t want to leave! I’m so grateful for San Diego ❤️
ktzpawz — Google review
Loving the view of the sea plus the Seals. Beautiful getaway with family since we just pick them up in LAX airport. Wildflowers, beautiful park and more.
Team Roe & Family stories — Google review
La Jolla Cove in California is a breathtaking coastal destination perfect for families. Watch playful seals and sea lions frolic in the clear waters while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the pristine sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs. It's a free and unforgettable experience that will create cherished memories for all. Don't miss out on this nature-filled wonderland!
Gina Ferri — Google review
Wow! Just Wow!! Next time I will bring my snorkel and swim suit. You can literally swim out with the Sea Lions. However, walking through the cave and watching all the little sea lions play was amazing!! We'll be back 😎
Teri Morrissey — Google review
Nice walk by the coast, unfortunately at the time we were here it was cloudy and a bit cold, but we took a walk anyway. We could see the sea lions and seals in the “wild” which was pretty unforgettable experience although the smell was terrible we enjoyed this place with those beautiful animals
Ondřej Lepš — Google review
Such a lovely 🥰 place to visit! Great sunset ☀️! Awesome to watch the sea lions 🦭 play around! Highly recommend checking out this spot!
Don Natch — Google review
I loved coming here when I went to visit. You have those breath taking ocean views. You have seals and sea lions swimming and bathing on the beach. It’s close to La Jolla Village, where you’ll find some shops and restaurants. At the beach, you can relax, tan, and swim. For parking, I recommend coming in the morning and maybe early afternoon. Later than that, then it can be difficult to find parking. We came in the afternoon so we were thankful someone was leaving on the street, it was a nice walk to the cove. It wasn’t very crowded when we went.
Nicholas P — Google review
Gorgeous views of the sunset. It was really cloudy tonight but still beautiful. Other evenings when there are no clouds, the sunset is amazing. You can see tons of seals and birds roosting in this area also.
Jenny Reviewer — Google review
The place is nice but the smell is disgusting like in a SeaFarm 🦭🦭🦭🦭🦭
L?a Pilet — Google review
There are too many tourists, but it is worth visiting.
This is the gathering place for pelicans, seabirds, sea lions and seals. Observe these lovely animals at close range.
I thank nature for giving us these gentle animals. Being with them, I feel It's peaceful and beautiful.
Weiqin — Google review
One of the most beautiful places! The wildlife makes it so much better as well, sea lions, seals, pelicans, squirrels, if you are lucky dolphins!
Lale Kumral — Google review
A beautiful park and walkway right along the Pacific Ocean. You can go to a couple coves where you can get up close to Seals and Sea Lions along with their pups! People snorkel in the children’s cove and you can get splashed walking along one of the lower sidewalks. Lots of vendors along the sidewalks. Public restrooms and showers to rinse off outdoors after coming back from the beach.
Scott Schaefer — Google review
Absolutely gorgeous spot for views of the ocean. There is always great wildlife including seals and sea lions. Must see during your Southern California trip!
Sarah Quinata — Google review
La Jolla Cove is a definite highlight in San Diego. It offers a unique experience with sea lions lounging on the shore, making it a must-visit spot. The beauty of the Pacific Ocean is on full display, creating a memorable and distinctive visit for anyone in the area.
Prasenjit Saha — Google review
Beautiful scenic beach and park area. Parking might be an issue, especially on the weekends when you can get stuck for 45 mins in the one-way parking maze and still end up paying $8-10 to find a decent parking about 1 km away from the beach area.
Ranjani Theregowda — Google review
Beautiful free scenery, pelicans, and a bunch of seals are clearly visible, clean restrooms and fresh air. The only thing is obviously, parking is limited and hard to find with the number of people here, so we parked a few blocks out and walked. 100% recommend visiting!
Joshua Gonzalez — Google review
La Jolla Cove is a small, beautiful beach with a calm surf that makes it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. In the summer months, the water is clear and you can see a variety of fish and other marine life. The beach is also home to a number of sea lions and seals, which you can often see sunbathing on the rocks.
The beach is surrounded by sandstone cliffs, which provide a dramatic backdrop for photos. There is also a small grassy area where you can relax and enjoy the view.
La Jolla Cove is a popular tourist destination, so it can be crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. However, the beach is still worth a visit if you're looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to spend a day at the beach.
Here are some tips for visiting La Jolla Cove:
Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a hat.
If you're planning on swimming, snorkeling, or diving, be sure to rent or bring your own gear.
There are a number of restaurants and shops located near the beach, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or buy souvenirs.
Be aware of the tide schedule. The beach can disappear at high tide, so it's important to plan your visit accordingly.
Emad Zaky — Google review
Beautiful place to come take in the scenery and see some wildlife. Water is absolutely beautiful in the surrounding area is really nice to walk around. Depending on the time of year, it might be a little smelly due to the seabreeze. Wouldn’t let that stop you from coming and checking out this beautiful spot.
Christopher Ciminelli — Google review
Great spot come take pictures with the family or just enjoy the beautiful San Diego ocean. It’s an amazing glimpse of the landscape of San Diego. The view is pristine. Parking can be a bit of a pain but just be wary. Nonetheless it’s worth it
Brandon Leuangpaseuth — Google review
Went during the off-season (February) but it was still a blast (assuming you're there to enjoy the ocean air and the seals). Saw some people swimming, although they kept a wide berth from the seals.
William Franklin — Google review
Amazing natural cove where sea lions, seals, birds and people more or less get along. Kudos to La Jolla and California keeping this free and open to all.
Paul Pinella — Google review
Love this spot in La Jolla. Every once in a while the otters/sea lions come to the beach and lay down. The cove is nestled in a spot where you'll see some cool fish when snorkeling. Kids really enjoyed this spot.
Scott & Jessica Curtis — Google review
So beautiful. The sea life is amazing. Nice to walk around and get some amazing pictures.
Tiffany Pelton — Google review
My wife told me this is one of the most photographed beaches, and I can understand why!
The cove itself is rather small, but lined on both sides by cliffs of rock, and when we were there in the afternoon, the rocks were covered in sea lions and harbor seals! This was such a neat thing to go and experience, I recommend stopping by here to anyone visiting San Diego. There is very limited parking so don't be surprised if you have to walk a little bit to get here!
Old Poway Park is a beautiful, historic park with plenty of photo opportunities. The setting is perfect for weddings, family pictures and more. There's also a vintage train that kids love to ride.
This is a nice park with historical information about the railroad and homes buibuilt in the early 1900s. It also displays history from the late 1890s. There are really good local eats. They have a farmers market every Saturday. There is also a small veterans park that honors the local veterans.
Monica Moore — Google review
If you are looking for a charming town square where you can step back in time, Old Poway is for you. I came for the railroad and stayed for the Artisan market, where I got paella. Yum! There's plenty of free parking in various lots sprawled across the park, but you will have to drive around closed roads to find them. I went into two of the free museums (donations appreciated) and learned more about Poway's history. The market closes around 1pm on Saturdays, so go before lunch to enjoy the food. The street corner musician was fun.
Betty Trinh — Google review
Do you need a place to get married? Take senior pictures or family photos? Have a birthday 🎂 party or just hang? Old Poway Park is perfect!!!! Beautiful setting and lots of photo opportunities!!! Great place to gather and great parking!! The train 🚆 is definitely a plus!! Kids of all ages love to ride on the old time train!!!
Ruth Wallis — Google review
We enjoy gathering after church service on Sunday for special occasions.
Potlucks and great fellowship in the beautiful outdoors. The children enjoy it also. Train rides, playground or take our own volleyball net for a game or two, most likely more. Plenty of parking. Restrooms available and clean.
Maria Robles — Google review
Love this park so much. It's small, but probably the most famous park in Poway, with a lot of history. It's beautiful, has large, old trees, cool old buildings, an old train, The Hamburger Factory next door, and walkable distance to many other small businesses. It's a wonderful park. No playgrounds for kids, though.
Alexandra — Google review
A big but quaint park in the middle of Poway. There is no playground at this park but there's another park right across the street (in the north). There's a farmers market on Saturdays, and the train runs on the weekend (I don't remember which day). It's a great location for photoshoots.
Akiko Morgan — Google review
We love coming here with our less than 2 year old granddaughter. She loves the steam train, and probably would love any of the rolling stock they offer. Highly recommend for the rail fan in your family.
Robert Rael — Google review
A gem of history in North County SD! The docents of the historical buildings are generous with their time and knowledge.
The train engineers started a little over time and let us go for a ride just before 1pm shut down time.
The reenactment we attended was thorough about life in mid-1800s wild west.
A fascinating visit, we will sure to return to! If we lived closer than Oceanside, we might volunteer to be train engineers!
Lalli Guerriero — Google review
Great local park. Has a train that goes around the park. They even have a steam engine that they bring out at different times. There's a restaurant, a Farmer's Market on Saturday & lots of picnic areas. There are other shops very close. The park has holiday specials. Christmas in the Park is great! Parking is not a problem. Lots of spots for photos too.
Boxeromine — Google review
I really like this park for a walk and also there are many different activities. On April 15th there was a flower show which was beautiful! Thanks to the organizers!
???? ?????????? — Google review
Beautiful park in beautiful poway. Take a stroll around the peaceful park enjoy the creek, get some craft beer across the street, heck you can even bring your own alcohol to the park (it's allowed)
leonardo sandoval — Google review
One of the best spots in San Diego. Have raised and brought 2 generations of dogs to this park. Also one of the most popular photo locations thanks to the train park side. Professional photographers love this park.
Robert Shaw — Google review
So blessed to see so many people enjoying Old Poway Park on this beautiful Sunday afternoon.
The train was going and the museum was open.
We enjoyed a short still thru the park with our dog.
Debbie Lynn Gaustad — Google review
This park is beautiful, quiet and just plain fun. If you go on Saturday there is a great farmers market. Many buildings are recreations of early Poway buildings. They have a small gauge railroad that takes tourists on a circuit around the park.
Terry Schultz — Google review
Great place to relax! Lots of picnic areas. Be sure to check out the historic Poway Railroad and museum. Fun area for the kids, too. On this Saturday, they had a huge farmer's market, so check ahead.
James Bray — Google review
Very visually stimulating and beautiful. It can get a little busy at times but it's really nice.
Aaron Farr — Google review
It's such a peaceful place. Be sure to visit on a Saturday morning so you can enjoy the street fair. The food is amazing! Go hungry. Don't stop for breakfast before arriving.
John Drop — Google review
I lived in Poway in the 80's and didn't know about this place! The farmers market was amazing!
Point Loma is a rugged and scenic peninsula in San Diego known for the Cabrillo National Monument, which features trails, tide pools, and exhibits on California history. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a popular spot to witness the sunsets while Liberty Station - formerly a naval training center - offers exciting restaurants and shops. The neighboring Shelter Island and Harbor Island boast numerous seafood eateries, offering an array of cuisines.
The Cabrillo National Monument preserves the historic landing site of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay in 1542. This important historical landmark features stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and is home to a historic lighthouse.
Amazing place close to San Diego. Amazing views of the city, ocean, coast, and more. Really nice staff. The bay side trail was awesome and only 2 miles. Perfect for a half day visit. It was 20 dollars to get in. Would love to go back to try other trails and spend more time in the museum.
Luke — Google review
Beautiful and with every bit of the trip to visit this site while touring around! Gorgeous area if you want to visit a historical site and million dollar views of all of San Diego, Coronado, the bay and the ocean! Amazing, refreshing and has a nice gift shop in addition with a museum indoors! Very impressive and a lot of fun! Jump on a trail and look around! Watch out for snakes 🐍 while you're walking around! Fantastic!
RedBullKC — Google review
Definitely a great place of history to learn about and to see panoramic views of San Diego and Pacific Ocean.
There are two sides where you can explore the bay side and walking down and back up a paved road and easy trail.
See the sights of Mexico and mountains in the distance, sailboats sailing in the bay, downtown San Diego city and beyond.
Explore the lighthouse and views of the ocean at the top of the hill and on the other side you can drive down to the cliffs and at low tide explore the tide pools.
The park closes at 5 PM and it’s $10 if you go on foot and $20 for cars to get in…so make sure you have a bit of time to explore or a national park pass.
It is a place I love to visit and a must do if time permits if you are visiting.
Mary Carol Fitzgerald — Google review
Very peaceful with great views overlooking San Diego and Coronado Island. Unfortunately, the tide was coming in when we arrived around 11am. Low tide is 8am and 5pm. High is peak at 1pm. We're still able to do tide pooling in some areas. We saw the shipwreck, which is cool. History of the lighthouse is very interesting.
A Z — Google review
There are amazing views here, and lots of signage explaining what you can see. There are a lot of military planes flying by. They have a very large gift shop, and they have a movie, small museum, and restrooms. There is a short walk to see the statue and old lighthouse.
Cassie Nix — Google review
There is an entrance fee for going up the mountain, or if you plan to visit frequently, it's worthwhile to get a yearly pass. The views are awesome and you can easily spend the whole day there.
Mary Chatz — Google review
🌄 Offers stunning views of the bay, the city, and the ocean.
👨🦽 Accessible for wheelchairs, kids, and strollers for the first 0.4 miles, which are paved and moderately steep.
🏞️ Suitable for all skill levels.
🌤️ Open year-round.
Cons:
💸 There is a fee to enter the park, which varies depending on the vehicle.
👥 Can get crowded.
🌞 There is little shade.
Cali Explorer — Google review
I was happily surprised that I visited on a fee-free day! However, this place is easily worth the 20 dollars per car.
Never mind the historic part of the park - the view of the city is just breath-taking from here. You can see the entire city plus the naval base - including the helicopters and planes that seem to be in the air constantly.
But the history is certainly also interesting. There was a bunker where the military kept looking for Japanese ships during World War II.
Nicki Lolk Sørensen — Google review
Cabrillo offers the best views of the city and ocean in San Diego. There are a few hiking trails with wonderful views. Make sure to not forget to go to the tide pools at the bottom of the mountain/hill. If you are in town for a few days do this first as your pass is good for 7 days.
Nick Balsley — Google review
Incredibly beautiful views and just enough history and walking to keep the kids interested. We aren’t from the area but wanted to learn a bit about San Diego history. This was the perfect place to take in the amazing views and learn about some of the first explorers in the area. We took the shortest trail and saw the views of the kelp forest, checked out the lighthouse and walked the small exhibit area. We paid $20 to park and had the ability to come back for a week with the receipt. Highly recommend!
Emma Campbell — Google review
Place is great for the view of the San Diego sky line and the ocean. Wild flowers everywhere and the lighthouse is fascinating. The history behind the military base and history itself is very detailed. The motive they show in the needs upgraded. It’s an old film from the 80’s or 90’s. Over all it’s a great place to visit.
Juan F Vielma — Google review
I love going to this place either to visit on my own or showing my friends and family from out of town.
This place is such a unique piece of San Diego history. It’s a shame not everyone has been here.
The tide pools to the lighthouse are all protected. Come here during low tide to see the sea creatures.
Or come before sunset to watch amazing sunset views at the kelp viewing are.
Michelle Mariano — Google review
Be aware! This place requires an entrance fee OR the annual national park pass for entry. Area closes down at 5pm sharp. I was a bit rushed as I didn’t get here until after 4pm but the sweeping views of San Diego and the Pacific were worth it. On a clear day, you can easily see the Coronado Islands looking south. Definitely stop by the visitors center to read up on the historical significance of the monument and the lighthouse. Beautiful area with a dedicated whale watching section as well.
Aliza Brown — Google review
Always a great place to visit and share with guests. Amazing views of San Diego and the Coronado Islands, an informative visitors center, tidepools, and excellent coast walks with a new one coming soon. Watching big Navy ships enter and leave port is especially nice.
Rob Roy — Google review
Such a beautiful place! We loved seeing this historic location and learning more about the history of Europeans coming to California. There’s an informative little museum there to help with that. Public bathrooms at the visitors center. Amazing views! It’s worth the effort to take the short trek uphill to see the light house. We also saw a submarine coming into the bay while there in the morning. So cool!
Alison Carter — Google review
Enjoy breathtaking views and various short trails at this picturesque park by paying a fee of $20 per vehicle or entering for free with an Annual park pass. From two historic lighthouses to informative interactive videos and a unique NPS gift shop, this park promises an unforgettable experience. Moreover, it offers conveniently located restrooms and generous parking spaces.
KS Nair — Google review
Stunningly beautiful. This is one of those national parks that is great for people of any mobility level: if you don't feel like walking, the views from the monument are beautiful and steps from the car, if you're feeling more adventurous, there's so many lovely trails. You can even drive directly to the tidepools along the coast.
Lina Nandy — Google review
Overview: Cabrillo National Park is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable hidden gems I've had the pleasure of visiting. Nestled in its unassuming size lies an extraordinary experience that should not be missed.
Breathtaking Views: The primary allure of Cabrillo National Park is its awe-inspiring views. From the park's vantage points, I was treated to panoramic vistas that included the submarine pen, the airfield, and even glimpses of the nearby Navy base. It's a visual feast that gives you a unique perspective on the area's history and maritime significance.
Wildlife Encounters: One of the park's most delightful surprises was the opportunity to witness marine life up close. The presence of seals and occasional sightings of whales added an unexpected layer of excitement to my visit. Nature enthusiasts and animal lovers will find this aspect of the park particularly enchanting.
Historical Significance: Beyond the natural beauty, Cabrillo National Park also offers a glimpse into the region's history. The visitor center provides valuable insights into the explorations of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and the park's cultural heritage.
Conclusion: Cabrillo National Park may be small in size, but it packs a big punch when it comes to delivering a memorable experience. The stunning views, wildlife encounters, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a slice of natural beauty and history on the California coast. Don't let its unassuming appearance fool you; this park is a true treasure.
Ethan Wehman — Google review
It is a beautiful place to see San Diego from the top. Beautiful view of the San Diego Bay. Will come back at night to see the San Diego at night time.
Private car:$20 for 7 day (keep receipt)
Hung Phan — Google review
Cabrillo National Monument is perched at the tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, just west of San Diego. Named after the Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, this historic site offers breathtaking views, fascinating history, and outdoor exploration.
Entry fee is $20 per vehicle. It’s free for military, veterans and Gold Star Families.
Visitor Center: Start your visit at the Visitor Center, where you can find park brochures and get information about current conditions.
Public WiFi: Free WiFi is available in the Visitor Center area.
Views: The drive to Cabrillo National Monument along Catalina Blvd. offers spectacular panoramic views of the ocean and downtown San Diego.
Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery: As you drive, you’ll see beautiful views of Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery and the Pacific Ocean.
Shows: There are multiple shows throughout the day at the top of every hour. I highly recommend Voyages of the San Salvador show and you will gain much appreciation in to the life and history of San Diego and significance of Cabrillo.
**check uploaded images
Recommended Time Required: Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the monument, take in the views, and visit the Visitor Center.
Consider arriving before 11 am on holidays, weekends, and low tide days to avoid wait times at the entrance.
Statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo: Don’t miss the iconic statue of the explorer himself.
Tide Pools: Explore the fascinating tide pools along the rocky coastline.
Old Point Loma Lighthouse: Visit the restored lighthouse and learn about its history.
Vijay Thakkar — Google review
Cabrillo National Monument is a good place to visit. I enjoyed watching the ships and the small boats. The lighthouse is cool and it’s nice to see the vegetables & herbs garden outside the lighthouse. I was able to see the old bunkers looking out over the ocean. It was high tide at the time of my visit but I enjoyed seeing dolphins in the ocean. I’ll come back when it’s low tide to explore the tide pool and find sea creatures.
Amie Sarte — Google review
Absolutely beautiful! It was very windy and cold. Warmed up in the afternoon after the rain stopped. Kids ( of all ages!) will enjoy the tidepools.
Leo Lin — Google review
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible parking in the front of the parking lot, across from the visitor center. If you go past the visitor center, toward the viewpoint, you'll come to this statue/monument. It is flat ground to get here, and there are benches to sit on if you need to rest.
Experience: beautiful statue with a beautiful view of the ocean, cliffs, and city of San Diego in the back. This man was a colonizer, so not great, but the view is beautiful here.
Alexandra — Google review
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1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106, USA
The Zoo in San Diego, California is home to animals representing more than 400 species from around the world. The zoo was founded in 1852 and features a conservation society that works to protect endangered animals.
We loved visiting the San Diego zoo. It's world famous for a reason. We also learned that it's not only a zoo but also a botanical garden. It is stunning to walk around. There is so much nature and beauty aside from the animals.
They grow so many different plants and trees there.
The bus tours are well worth it to check out the outside of the entire zoo and see animals along the way. Plan to be here for at least 3 hours if not more. Also the zoo allows you to bring food and snacks so you don't have to worry. They're so baby friendly which was great. There's a whole baby station where you can wash your baby bottles if you plan to be there long and need to feed the baby with a clean bottle. I loved it.
Rabeea Jabbar — Google review
This is the best zoo I’ve ever been to. All the animals are very active and fun to watch. They have a large variety of animals so there’s something for everyone.
The transportation included in the ticket is amazing. The 30 minute free bus tour gave us a great overview of the zoo and let us see a lot of animals. The guide was very sweet and very knowledgeable. The kangaroo buses made it very convenient to get from exhibit to exhibit.
The zoo is very large and it took us a whole day to see everything.
Kathryn Q — Google review
There was so much to see here. We spent about 6 hours and didn't see all the animals. All the exhibits were entertaining. The free gondola ride across the zoo was great. Free parking. Reasonably priced food, drink, stroller rentals and souvenirs. Would definitely go back to see what we didn't get to see this time.
Kristin Weatherby — Google review
We had a great day at the zoo! Parking is close and free, which is amazing! We took the zoo bus tour first thing, which gave us a good overview of the park and helped us figure out what we wanted to see. We loved all the methods of transportation through the park because it is so big. There is a kangaroo bus to 4 different areas. We didn't use this because we decided to just walk it so we wouldn't miss exhibits. But we did the aerial tram from one side to the other and back. We also used the elevator by the bridge two times to help with the hills. We happened upon an animal encounter by zoo workers with an aardvark. So fun! The animal enclosures are so beautiful, as is the park foliage. We ended up staying until 7:30 pm, much longer than we expected. There is so much to see!
Khristine Pettingill — Google review
This one is a most do!!! Great zoo!!! It's huge so I definitely recommend to get there early, wear comfy clothes and shoes so you can see the whole park because is definitely worth it, but to see it all u have to be early. It's very clean and beautiful also u can bring your own snacks and Beverages. Small coolers are allowed and if not they have so many restaurants and places to buy whatever u need. One more thing bring sunscreen and enjoy!!!
KIRA G — Google review
I recently visited the San Diego Zoo and I must say it was an incredible experience. From the moment I walked in, I was amazed by the vast array of animals and the beautiful environment they were in.
One thing that stood out to me was the care and attention given to the animals. It was evident that the zookeepers genuinely cared for each animal and provided them with a comfortable and stimulating environment. The animals seemed happy and well taken care of, which is a testament to the zoo's dedication to conservation and animal welfare.
The variety of animals at the San Diego Zoo is truly impressive. From elephants to meerkats to polar bears, there was something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed the different exhibits and habitats that allowed me to see the animals up close and learn about their natural behaviors.
The zoo also offers numerous educational opportunities. From interactive exhibits to informative signs, I was able to learn so much about each animal's habitat, diet, and conservation status. It was both fun and educational, making it a perfect destination for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
The San Diego Zoo is also beautifully designed and well maintained. The pathways were easy to navigate, and the landscaping was lush and vibrant. It's clear that a lot of thought and effort goes into creating a welcoming and visually appealing space for visitors.
Overall, my experience at the San Diego Zoo was nothing short of exceptional. The combination of stunning animals, high-quality care, educational experiences, and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit destination. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable and enjoyable day out.
Gary Mitchell — Google review
The San Diego Zoo is hands down a five-star adventure waiting to happen. I mean, where else can you go from hanging out with pandas to checking out flamingos and then chilling with koalas, all in one place? It's like a global safari without the jet lag!
But here's the thing that makes it truly special: not only is it a blast, but it's also a powerhouse for conservation and research. These folks are like the superheroes of the animal world, working behind the scenes to save endangered species and educate the world on the importance of wildlife preservation.
And the setup? It's like Mother Nature herself decided to design a zoo. The exhibits are beautifully crafted to mimic natural habitats, which means you get up close and personal with animals in environments that feel just right.
So, whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a family with kiddos who adore animals, or just someone looking for a wildly fun day out, the San Diego Zoo has got you covered. It's not just a zoo; it's a wild journey that leaves you with a smile and a heart full of love for our furry, feathered, and scaly friends. Five stars for this fantastic place where adventure meets education!
Kenneth Ross — Google review
One of the best zoos ever. I went on a Sunday at around 12:00 noon. Great parking, not too crowded, and great weather, what else can you ask for.
Hop on the 30 minute tour bus, the guy gives you a lot of input about the zoo and its animals and it helped me plan for my day. They have what they call Kangaroo buses with four stops. You can get on and off at whatever stop, very convenient to get to the areas you want to get to. On this day, the animals were very active, it made my day even more eventful. I paid for the Polar Express experience, found in the same area as a polar bears, it was worth it. I also saw a lot of children walking around with their face painted, but I didn't see any adults doing it. My thought, why not. I got my face painted, it took all but maybe 5 minutes, and I loved it!
I drove from the San Fernando Valley to San Diego, two and a half to three hour drive.
If you're in California, and within driving distance, the San Diego Zoo is worth the drive.
Desiree Mier — Google review
Best zoo in the Country, hands down! It's super clean and the animal exhibits are so well kept. It's huge, it's easy to spend all day there. The employees are very helpful and happy to answer questions about any of the animals. The skyfari was so much fun also. We loved how many things were included with your entry ticket! So many amazing animals to see.
Kalin Cowan — Google review
The Zoo exceeded our expectations. We stayed all day and have never watched so much activity by the animals at a zoo before . The trails and facilities were clean and well kept which makes for a nice experience as well. We took the free bus tour to start our day which gave us a good overview of the park. After walking to every exhibit throughout the day we ended with a trip up and back on the Sky tram. Overall, a great experience!
April Mangum — Google review
The San Diego Zoo was amazing! The volunteers were helpful with directions and giving info about the Zoo residents. You definitely need an entire day to see everything. My wife and I probably experienced 90% of it. Definitely take the tour bus, so you can have an overview of the park animals, then go see your favorites. The sky lift was an awesome experience itself.
I highly recommend coming here. We will definitely be coming back with the kids on our next trip
Anthony Hyslop — Google review
It's been a few years since we've been here but it has changed in such an amazing way!!! The new children's area is great!!! They have beautiful new exhibits, new buildings and structures. They have a wet play zone for the kids with waterfalls, arcing waters and splash zones. They also have a dryer you can pay to use to dry off too! They have amazing new merchandise for the kids as well. If you haven't been here in a while, I'd highly recommend it! We had so much fun!
Cassey Hawkins — Google review
Let’s be real- this zoo is just unbeatable. It is a magical experience just to walk through it , let alone to witness the stunning variety of animals and plants. Hands down it is a must-see of San Diego. Definitely download the app and try to do the bus tour early morning or in the evening as I think the animals are more lively. There is always a chance that you won’t get to see some of the animals but you won’t be disappointed with the monkeys, koalas, and the many stunning aviaries. The history of the zoo and its many many animals is also captivating and a gift that keeps giving after you leave. It is definitely doable in one day but another day may have alleviated some of the angst of seeing or not-seeing some of the animals.
Nicole Todd — Google review
We had a wonderful time! The staff was very friendly and helpful. Everybody was wonderful. Even the crowd was relatively nice and respectful for California. we had a great time. We saw lots of animals rode the gondola and had funnel cake. The park was very clean. We couldn't have asked for a better visit, and we will definitely be back! Thank you so much for a wonderful experience!!
**UPDATE**
We ended up staying for the last show, and it was amazing! Lots of energy, and you could tell the performers really enjoyed what they were doing, It was very enjoyable! I would highly recommend staying for it!
David Hughes — Google review
My daughter and I did the roar and snor. Our experience was amazing. The tents were well maintained. The bathrooms were well kept. The food provided was decent, typical camp food. Plenty to go around. The late night snacks were a welcome plus. The staff was professional and friendly. The tour guides were amazing and very informative. The grounds are beautiful even in the midst of construction.
Jasmine Warren — Google review
Great clean and beautiful zoo, I definitely recommend to get there early so you can see most of it, and it’s definitely worth the time and the money.
Loved the bus/ shuttle system and the gondola sky lift.
Also you can bring your own snacks and Beverages. Small coolers are allowed and if not they have so many restaurants and places to buy whatever u need.
The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable about the animals! Gift ships were awesome.
Alaa Oussi — Google review
Great experience. Had a free pass but if I had to pay I would definitely not come frequently. The place is amazing, great vegetation and amazing and exotic animals. There is great bus-tours that get you around and would definitely recommend the Kangaroo Bus. Animals seem to be somewhat free and there is very helpful info next to each one of them
Nicolás Perales — Google review
I herd that this zoo is world wild famous. But I was not impressed at all. It is a big place to spend a day. There is many animals to see. Cable cars that takes you to other side of zoo. And two bus lines. One is with four stops around the zoo. And other one is like a tour bus that talk in detail about zoo. Part I didn’t like is they just returned Pandas to China. And I really wanted to see panda in person. Other one is that I could not see most of animals in park. Cause their sports are so big and majority of animals been hiding in their homes. I will try Safari park next time.
Alex Luthor — Google review
We did a full day with all tickets purchased online in advance. Early admission through the baby boom package, zoo pass and then dinner and aurora. The entire experience was first class. Having attractions like the kids park, gondola and bus tour as part of the ticket are very nice. Lines always moved very quickly and we're well organized. The zoo is as much a meticulous garden. The grounds are amazing. Staff were extremely engaged and attentive. Early morning pass was exceptional opportunity to be in the zoo before it got busy. Only issue was the amount of times we had to double back. The app and map are not always clear and it is easy to miss a turn and head in the wrong direction. Dinner at Albert's was very good. Plan for the whole day and enjoy.
Adam Thompson — Google review
I enjoyed my trip to the San Diego Zoo. I would recommend getting the tickets online to save a few extra dollars. It is $70-$72 to get in to the zoo, which may seem like a lot but at least they offer free parking. The zoo itself is massive. The bus tour and tram ride is included with the price of the ticket was nice and was a great way to explore the park. I would recommend renting a scooter for $60 dollars to fully get the most out of the park if you aren’t able to walk. I walked 6 miles and still did not see the entire zoo. I would also like to recommend the zoo creating an app for the public to guide us better.
Jack Furlong — Google review
Easily the best zoo I’ve ever been to. There are so many animals and you need a whole day to see everything. Lots of walking, but there are plenty of buses and other forms of transportation to bring you around the zoo. I loved the tiger and the polar bear, they also have a really cool elephant exhibit.
Christopher Ciminelli — Google review
While my daughters were on spring break I decided to go to the San Diego zoo during the week so it would be less visitors and ample parking. I bought our tickets online so when we got there all I had to do was show the tickets on my phone they scanned it and that was it off we went to our journey of seeing all the beautiful animals. Let me just say it was a good decision.
There was ample parking. It wasn't crowded there was a nice crowd but it wasn't so crowded that you couldn't see the animals that you wanted to see.
We had such a great day at the San Diego zoo. I must say I was a little bit disappointed only because some of the habitats that we went to visit were empty and we wanted to see the animals but overall we had a great day we saw some beautiful animals and we were very happy. I hope when we go back that we will see more of the habitats filled with animals. It was beautiful though and very enjoyable.We also got some great pictures at least for my phone😂 Oh! I almost forgot and they serve drinks🍹now I was happy again. I haven't been to the zoo in a long time but I was very pleased to have a margarita while I walk through the zoo. 😄 You must go and have fun with the kiddos!
Jocelyn Howell — Google review
This place is great! Plenty of benches and shady spots along the trails. I spoonful advise you bring a water bottle which they will refill with water or buying a free refill soda. Plenty of animals to see. Plenty of things s for kids to interact with. There's a reason this is considered one of the best zoos in the world. Definitely a must visit if visiting San Diego. If local buy the champion membership. Skipping lines, separate entrance, and includes wild animal park as well. Good for 2 people and you get two free passes. So if 4 purple going. It basically pays for itself on first visit. Click"helpful" if you found this helpful please
SanDiego Food Czar — Google review
We loved our trip to the zoo and would heartily recommend it to anyone. In fact, we have to put it as the number 1 attraction in San Diego. It really is something not to miss when you are in the city. We took the guided bus tour first and it was a good way to see the whole area before the walk around the zoo. There are restaurants in the zoo and the food was great. Would recommend wearing comfortable shoes since it's a big area you'll be walking. Take a stroller if you go with children or you can rent one in the park which costs you $16.
Lakshitha Dissanayake — Google review
The zoo was such fun! It was clean and well-maintained. The restrooms were clean and the staff were friendly and nice. There were plenty of places to sit and get out of the sun. The animals' cages were well kept, and there was a good variety. We rode the tour bus and took the sky tram with ease, and had a blast. On a Friday morning/afternoon, it wasn't too crowded, although we had to wait about 45 minutes to pickup our tickets, so it may help to add some kiosks to aide with this in the future.
Rosalie ONeal — Google review
Being the most pricey zoo I’ve ever seen before, it’s totally worth it. This place doesn’t just take great care of their animals but they really care about the cause of protecting them. The tours you can go on at the zoo are fantastic, the place is so big you could spend all day there being entertained and you would still have more to see! While the price of a bottle water is $6.50, at least it’s going to a good cause. The Zoo is incredible and really lives up to the hype it has.
Cole Myer — Google review
Great place for groups, families, and/or couples to stroll the paths and view the animals. Feeding time is the best time to go. Mid-day is probably the least favorable time to see the animals out and about in their areas.
Parking is free. If you go mid-day or later might as well start looking for a spot in the closest isles and work your way farther away.
Their are food choices but not as many as the wild animal park.
Hard to believe there is a zoo in the center of a city but when your in there you forget.
Michelle Blair — Google review
The San Diego Zoo is definitely one of if not the best zoos in the country. There are so many animals and so much to see and do. The exhibits are nice and the whole zoo is really well put together and maintained. It’s slightly expensive but worth the price. We had a variety of ages in our group and everyone had a great time. We got there just before it opened and had no problem with parking.
Derek J — Google review
We had a great time at the zoo. The first thing we did was the bus tour and I'm glad we did it right away because it got very busy later in the day. It was also great to give us an idea of the zoo layout and see the animals from a different side in some cases.
Jamie Lawson — Google review
You have to love the zoo! The koalas, the big cats, the aardvark, the elephants, the baby bears, penquins, rare birds, plant life and so much more!
It was a beautiful day in San Diego and the zoo is a must see. We took advantage of items included with your admission such as the mini bus tour, the kangaroo bus transportation and the sky tram, but mostly it's great to walk around and observe the amazing wildlife. I was impressed by the efforts of the zoo to provide what appears to be suitable habitats and the proper environment for these wonderful creatures. Take in all you can as there is so much to see and much to learn. There were a few areas under construction, but hardly noticeable as you take in the vast area of the park. We have heard the safari is a great option and plan to check it out on a future visit. For our initial visit we wanted to walk throughout the zoo at our own pace. The walking is up and down hill, while our biggest challenge, to be honest. was dodging the hundreds of strollers. While also fun to watch the excitement of kids seeing some of these animals for the first time.
The shops, restrooms and food/drink stands with tables and seating placed throughout the park, provide opportunities to take breaks during your stay. Pace yourself and allow most of the day to experience as much as you can. Have fun and support the San Diego zoo!
Cindy D — Google review
The Zoo is one of our favorite places to explore as a family. We have a membership and visit often. There are always new things to see, and the grounds are beautifully maintained. I feel that they do a wonderful job of caring for the animals here, and their conservation efforts globally are impressive. We feel good about supporting them. 💚 The children's Basecamp area is so much fun, even as a stand-alone activity. My girls love the water area, climbing structures, tree house, and monkey bridge. They could easily spend hours in this area. This area of the zoo also hosts the cleanest restrooms, in our experience. I usually pack swimsuits & towels for my girls to change into, as I know we will undoubtedly end up in this area and get soaked. Not a problem when it's hot though, the water is a welcome cool down. The new exhibits in this area are very cool as well. We always have a great time at the zoo.
Lisa Bylund — Google review
Having been to the Omaha zoo last year had some high expectations and wow does San Diego Zoo deliver. Just an exceptional overall experience.
The variety of displays were amazing. Love all the different areas. Our favorite for sure was the gorillas 🦍 but they are all awesome.
The scale of the zoo is awesome, super easy to navigate but you are walking through such great greenery the entire day would be a nice walk even without the animals. Really enjoyed all the unique plants and trees as well.
The staff is super helpful and very informative as well. Loved that.
Matthew schmitt — Google review
hands down the largest zoo I’ve ever been to (and I’ve been to many of them). clean zoo & lots to do and a plethora of exhibits to see — I recommend spending the whole day here when you buy tickets, which I suggest you do in advance (and check for value days!). many food and drink stands and options available. knowledgeable and kind staff members and volunteers throughout the zoo. you can hop on the kangaroo bus for a tour or ride the sky-ride gondolas to view the zoo from above. my friend and I were visiting from out of town and had a blast!
Alyssa Walzak — Google review
This was amazing space. The exhibits are so well designed that even though it was busy, it was still possible to have special animal encounters around each bend.
We have a medical service animal, named Penny, who loved it. The animals were pretty curious about her, too. The Harpy Eagles were especially intrigued by our furry companion.
There were just so many great spaces to experience nature together with people.
Jeff Swigert — Google review
What a fantastic zoo! I can see why it's rated the highest in the country!
We knew when we booked this trip that a visit to the famous San Diego Zoo was going to be a necessity. The value day pass is a fantastic deal if you're going to visit on a value day. The zoo at times can feel a little bit like a maze, but it's worth going down every path and seeing every exhibit and animal.
The zoo is very well maintained and there are volunteers all over to help guide you and provide insight and/or answers to any questions you may have. And the scenery is gorgeous!
There are also extras included, even with the value passes, like the guided bus tour and the kangaroo bus (hop-on hop-off). Make sure even if you see the whole zoo on foot that you take the guided tour, you get some great perspective and different views!
Mike W — Google review
It's literally the best zoo we have ever visited. If you have a toddler, make sure you take your stroller. There are a few hills inside that will tire them out. There are plenty of restrooms and quick food spots. Seems the staff takes care of the animals sanctuaries quite well. The only con is parking. Make sure you arrive earlier than planned to get a good spot. You can also park on the street by the school next to the dirt road. No fee. You can then walk for about 5 min until you reach the zoo entrance. There is no VIP parking. Purchase your tickets in advance to avoid wait time. If you are going during January, you may need a jacket in case it gets cold at night. One more thing, download the app. It was extremely helpful for inside the zoo navigation and for other information regarding zoo time shows and attractions.
F B — Google review
It’s been quite some time since we’ve visited the San Diego Zoo but I was truly happy we did. It’s just as big and beautiful as I remember. I LOVE all the animals, especially the koalas, elephants, giraffes, and the aviary that has not only birds, but working ants. That truly was awesome. A must see for everyone. And please know that the bus ride throughout the zoo is free which we were thrilled about!
Arlene Aninion — Google review
My feet are screaming as I write this. lol. I would consider this zoo an all day affair. There’s a lot of walking to do and some hills you’ll be going up and down. It seems like they fill up reuse able bottles with water for you and they have one you can buy for 14.99 for the day and get any fountain drink with free refills. Water is very important while walking around. Your favourite animal is probably here so bring your back up batteries for videos and photos! The zoo is super clean and the staff loves talking about the animals. The sky ride was a crazy view but if you don’t like heights then avoid. I was white knuckled holding the bar.
If you have kids a 2-day pass isn’t a bad option as they might not be able to handle all the activities they have for kids AND walk an entire zoo.
Joe “JoeColor” — Google review
Absolutely a great zoo. There are lots of amazing animals to see, lots of fun activities to do and plenty of good places to eat. My family and I have been to most of the top zoo's in the country and really like the San Diego Zoo. The price per person is very fair. I would highly recommend this zoo.
Patrick Elmore — Google review
Beautiful facility with a lot to see. Tickets are $74/adult, but a lot comes with that. They provide a 35 minute double deck bus tour as well as a "kangaroo bus" to help you jump to different areas of this HUGE zoo. We took the Skyfari Aerial Tram up to the top - free of charge - and I definitely suggest using it to get to the top and walk down the zoo because some of the walkways are extremely steep. A wide variety of animals, plants, and shopping areas. There is also an opportunity to feed a giraffe a biscuit for $7!
The USS Midway Museum preserves the historic aircraft carrier, which served America for more than 25 years. The museum features areas not open to the public, such as the sleeping quarters and engine room. Sailors narrate self-guided audio tours, and you can learn even more by engaging volunteer docents.
This place was absolutely awesome! It has dummies instead if people all around the ship as you walk through (see pictures). It has beds, kitchens, bathroom, everything! It has a place where the planes land and the best part is l, you get a free audio tour thingy. There is also a little movie you can watch about the Midway battle and about the soldiers🍿. Everything is so realistic and it has cool props and all. Keep in mind, this used to be an operating ship! As you walk through, the history of the ship is slowly uncovered and you start to get a glance at the life of those soldiers that lived on the ship, away from their families. This place is really cool and you should definitely visit!
Vasily Tregubov — Google review
Well worth the six hours we invested. An amazing piece of history. Liked the self guided audio device you use to scan the displays you want information about. They have a kid's information scavenger hunt that once completed they get wings in an award ceremony. They loved it. Several speakers explained operations on the Midway; very interesting and given by prior Midway servicemen. Learn from their experiences while they are still around, a piece of living history. The Cafe 41 has a good selection of lunch items. A good place to take a break and have a snack or lunch. Don't forget there are several flight simulators you can operate for a fee, but several cockpits that are free to set in and take pictures. Video presentations everywhere you look. A great day of history and the kids won't even know they are learning about history. Win, Win
Thunder — Google review
I had an excellent time aboard the USS Midway! The ship is a very well preserved and document piece of history that you could easily spend a whole day on just learning about all the ways this ship used to support our country and how the brave men and women used to run the ship. The museum also features many modern tourist attractions such as full motion flight simulators and a VR exhibit. I also really appreciated the many veterans working on the ship that are happy to answer questions and provide more details. Definitely check out the gift shop before you leave for some nice souvenirs that support preservation efforts of the midway and support veterans. Overall, this is a great piece of military history that’s not to be missed if you are in the San Diego area.
Beck Orion — Google review
Great experience! Spent 3 hours walking around. Could easily spend more or less time based on your plans. Audio tour is included. You get to go through so many areas. The staff are so friendly and a wealth of knowledge and willing to share personal experiences. Make sure you bring your walking shoes as there are small stairs to go up and down on a well. Only caution is if you're over 6 feet tall, you'll be ducking often!
Daniel — Google review
Went with friends and we really enjoyed our walking tour. Didn't seem to have enough time in the day to completely enjoy all they had to offer. It was very nice to explore the history involved with this war ship and all the men involved in keeping this ship operational. Thanks to all who served on her protecting our freedom 🙏. Veterans and active duty get a discounted entry.
Kino J — Google review
I have 0 interest in the military or military history, but this was a fascinating place to explore and learn! I love that you can explore the ins and outs of the ship and really get a feel for how big it is. If you are tall, be careful - I hit my head many many times even while paying attention. Parking is pretty limited so we ended up using ride share to get there. This would be very difficult to experience fully if you have any type of mobility challenge so keep that in mind. There is a decent food/snack bar and a big gift shop. Don’t miss the intro movie.
Reed B — Google review
Went to a company party here with 1,100 coworkers. We loved looking at the planes and taking small group tours. It appears they are doing work as a section of the tower was covered. The planes and deck were lit up well and provided a nice backdrop for our event. The catering was excellent as was the band. This ship makes a great place to hold a large event!
Tye Bratton — Google review
Note, I was not here for the tour and museum, but for a private event. I was able to view all of the displays that the museum has to offer. Being able to wander around the upper and lower deck, there is a lot to see ranging from all manner of helicopters to planes. The upper deck boasts a gorgeous view of the San Diego Bay.
Remington Greer — Google review
Fabulous !
Went with high expectations, they proceeded to far exceed them! great job presenting 50 years of military history during the ships service life, loved every second. The equipment was super interesting, but the huge corps of spirited knowledgeable volunteer docents made this museum unforgettable, oh the stories they told. So much to see, minimum 2 hours but easily spend 4.
Suggestions, go EARLY, do the island tour first and make use of the simple audio guides.
Bonix Sunday — Google review
We loved the experience! Hubby loves airplanes and we were so thrilled to go in and stroll around the museum. It was soo tiring because a lot of walking but it was so worth it! we really go in every single part of the ship😂
Love to be i. the deck.. took a lot of pictures and post in social media. love it so much.. well be back !
Jade Cojena — Google review
This place is amazing! I got to see the maritime! This is very interesting and educational for everything that it offers to learn more about what happened. I found that the simulating rides were pretty amazing. And I love that the volunteers are most of them are veterans. Highly recommend this for everybody stopping by the harbor and enjoying learning about our history. Thank you for giving me an experience of a lifetime!
Shirley Mendaros — Google review
Such a cool idea for a museum, a historical aircraft carrier. Been here multiple times and still enjoy coming here when family is visiting. You get to actually explore the interior of the carrier, with different rooms staged as it would have been when out at sea. The flight deck is also a must see as you can go inside planes and helicopters. It's a great way to spend a few hours with the whole family And even learn a few things. I recommend the audio tour. They also do events like during the Big Bay Boom.
Ronald Dolsky — Google review
Perfect experience coupled with the gocity pass. Very perfect execution from storytelling to hands on to living quarters. I took a whole day to finish this place.
Go straight to the theatre near the entrance and the tour at the top deck in the morning. It gets overly crowded later leading to long waits.
And take the two talks too. The speakers are very knowledgeable and definitely gave a good understanding on how the top platform works.
There's lots to see on the sides of the top deck, additional rooms and a basement. But go for the talks first to have a better understanding of operations before walking around.
Food is definitely decent too. Took the chicken strips and they were good although salty.
And if you have kids or have a kid inside you, take the 4d rides at a price (I didn't).
Recommendation: You should also visit the nearby peace monument too.
Jason Foo — Google review
Amazing experience, kids and whole family loves it. The veterans volunteers on board talking about their service was just amazing to hear. Come early before it gets hit out on the deck. They have vending machines and is very accessible even for stroller and all. Amazing view of downtown San Diego to boot.
Kaushal Patel — Google review
We decided to check out the USS Midway as my partner is currently active in the Navy and he was interested in seeing how an aircraft carrier compared in size to his current ship.
The history of the Midway is interesting to say the least! The volunteers on board are all very welcoming and informative. They give a great tour of the island (must do) which will give you lots of information on the history of the ship, and why it will likely be the last of it's kind to become a museum.
Leave ample time to see everything. We arrived around 2:30, they closed at 5pm and we still didn't get enough time to see everything. So we had to rush down to the lower level to see the bunks as I wanted to see what my partners life is like underway.
Thank you to the veterans and everyone else there. We really enjoyed our experience.
Selina (Sphynxee) — Google review
An incredible piece of American naval history. It's crewed by a friendly bunch of very knowledgeable helpful people. Who were more than happy to answer any questions you may have. There is restroom facilities on board and a cafe. There are some interactive activities to do. A great range of merchandise is also available. I rate a visit to this ship as a must do if visiting the area.
David Smith — Google review
Great experience! After walking the ship for a couple of hours, I have a new appreciation for our men and women serving all around the world on these ships. It is such a unique experience to see all the inner workings and the size of these ships usually only see from a screen. Great displays of historic aircraft. Opportunities to sit inside some of the cockpits and even interactive experiences available. It's worth every penny to see a part of history and the inner workings. Many veteran volunteers sharing their experience in stories and informative talks. Plan to wear comfortable shoes, be prepared to walk and do plenty of stairs!
Highly recommend!!
Looking To Get Lost — Google review
Jingle lights was amazing. Taking two ladies to the museum for the first time, discussing the planes, WW2, how the US was drawn into a war we didn't want to be a part of, geographic isolation and the need for the island of Midway, writing a letter to our troops for the holidays, I forgot how much of the history I knew! The docents were incredible, customer service fantastic, and the lights on the flight deck were amazing. Definitely an experience to enjoy. Easily takes the three hours we allowed... I wish we had more time. Just go, it's part of our nation's great history with several connections to San Diego history. Enjoy!
Lance C. — Google review
The bridge area is currently closed off and under renovation as of Feb 2024, but other than that it was really neat! Definitely a good time. Be aware some of the inner stairs and hatch ways will be difficult for toddlers or older folks, but there’s also plenty to do and see on the top two decks. Enjoy!
Mitch Jordan — Google review
This was a fun day trip while on vacation in San Diego, CA. It was about $32/person which is a bit pricey but it’s worth it to see the historic aircraft carrier. Very cool to see the old planes and some more modern ones as well. We visited on a Saturday around 2:30pm and it was very crowded, as to be expected. Spent about 2.5 hours. Very short line to get in the door since we bought tickets there and then they funnel everyone in the same way and then immediately have a photo op which slows things down.
Christopher Cunniffe — Google review
Definitely worth a couple of hours if you are into US military history.
Lots of WWII to modern planes on display and an audio tour is available. Friendly docents we're all over the carrier to answer questions.
Book your tickets online to save a couple of $s and to avoid one of the lines.
Visit time is probably around 2-3 hours unless you are in a hurry, or if you want to take your time.
A fair bit of walking and climbing if you want to see the whole boat.
Zinger Learns — Google review
What an amazing place. We spend about 5 hours touring the ship and had a great time. We even had a late lunch while there. Was a bit expensive, but was still good. We enjoyed seeing all the different places on the ship. There were even a few places where the staff or maybe volunteers explained how things worked. We really enjoyed listening to them and the different stories they had. I would highly recommend visiting this amazing museum. You won't be disappointed.
A B — Google review
This is an amazing tour, make sure to take the audio device (free.) Also, be aware you will have to walk a lot. If you want to see all the areas, is around a 3.5 to a 4 hour walk depending on how detailed you are and how much of the history of the vessel you want to learn.
Sergio Ochoa — Google review
Touring the USS Midway is one of the coolest things I have ever done... If you are at all interested in history and or the military I would highly recommend you stop by. I spent 5 hours here and could easily spend another 5-10 hours. Thank you to all the men and women who served on this wonderful ship!
William Weitz — Google review
My first ever aircraft carrier experience, and it was very awesome. The amount of volunteers and people available to explain or give demonstrations of things was so cool, and there was so many of them. I was able to learn so much by people that were actually on the ship before it was retired and to me that is a little piece of history and firsthand experience that you can’t buy and it is precious. Would definitely recommend.
ESlice — Google review
This was one of the most impressive museums that we have visited. As impressive as the aircraft carrier is, the staff and volunteers are even more exceptional - everyone we interacted with was amazing..!
There are bottled water refill stations and WiFi available. It may be advantageous to start up top on the flight deck to include the recommended bridge tour that stops about an hour before closing. Make sure you wander through the 'below decks' compartments, too - so much to see...!
I would recommend 3 hours minimum to fully experience the museum.
Ryan Smith — Google review
Had a great time here! So much history! We ended up taking a few hours there but could have easily spent more time. I suggest getting the self-guided audio tour. Definitely a place to take your time at and see everything. All the staff and volunteers were nice and informational. Loved the views from the flight deck.
Janelle Rhodes — Google review
Fascinating visit to the USS Midway. We easily spent 4 hours exploring the ship. That included the Voices of Midway film (which you must see), but none of the docent talks so easily could have been longer. We walked nearly 5 miles so make sure you come prepared, there is a lot to see, and a lot of steps! The audio tour is an excellent addition, contrary to what the website said, we did not need headphones to listen. Learning about the history and operation of the ship was eye opening. We visited on a week day in February and it was busy, so can only imagine would be pretty busy weekend and school holidays. Well worth the admission.
Amy W — Google review
Lives up to and beyond the hype.
Had tons of recommendations from local friends to check this out and wow were we not disappointed.
Between the nice self guided audio tour (free) option that gets you more information from the pilots on the aircraft that actually flew them, to the aircraft themselves and then under deck, you will be blown away. It truly is a floating city and the sheer size and scale will amaze.
I could have easily spent 6+ hours here but my friends capped out at 5 hours of adventuring below deck and the flight simulator (extra cost but awesome).
If you are in San Diego and could only see one attraction, make it this one.
Matthew schmitt — Google review
So much to see! The vets were so helpful, friendly and informative! Talking to them was a real honor and pleasure! The most interesting was the flight take off and landings they did up in the flight deck. They had video and several former pilots explained the process. So interesting! Large souvenir shop where I found t shirts for everyone! The soup was great and the other food looked good!
Jeri Cherkas — Google review
The USS Midway Museum in San Diego isn't just a museum; it's a time machine. Stepping aboard this legendary aircraft carrier is like stepping into the heart of American naval history. From the moment you set foot on the massive deck, you're surrounded by artifacts, exhibits, and most importantly, the incredible stories of the sailors who called this ship home. What truly elevates the Midway Museum experience are the docents. These passionate volunteers, many of whom served on the Midway themselves, are walking repositories of the ship's history. They answer questions with enthusiasm and detail, bringing the exhibits to life with personal anecdotes and firsthand accounts of life aboard the carrier. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, these docents ensure you leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation for this incredible ship and the sailors who served on it.
Lukasz Zbylut — Google review
Was a fun day trip at the USS Midway Museum! The Midway was the Flagship of the air operations during Operation Desert Storm in 1991 and since its decommissioning, its been turned into a museum. You might need a minimum of 2.5 hours to do a quick survey of all the exhibits, but plan for longer if you want to be more thorough. The flight deck exhibits have beautifully restored jets - many of them were featured in the Top Gun movies. There is a self-guided tour option that takes you to the decks below and it can be a little challenging if you have kids or pregnant as it involves climbing down some steep stairs. Audio devices are offered free of charge once you’re inside for more information on each exhibit. We bought tickets online and saved $2 each. Paid parking is available (3 hours at a time) but it can be difficult to find free spots right away unless you’re lucky.
Helen J — Google review
What an amazing experience and a fantastic museum!
This was immediately on my list of places to visit in San Diego and it did not disappoint at all! While I'm sure there was a lot of the shop we didn't get to see, it really felt like you could see the majority of the interior. As you enter the hangar deck, you get to experience the enormity of the ship and see many different aircraft on display. From that level, there are a few loops that take you through the innards of the ship itself.
I think what surprised me the most is knowing that the carrier was built in the mid 1940's and retrofitted more than once, and it's amazing to me that they were able to do this and keep this ship in service for as long as they did.
Being up on the fight deck was a great experience. There are many more aircraft up there and you get some amazing views of the bay! There are also volunteers all over the ship and if you have any questions, they are happy to answer them for you!
I consider this a must-see if you're in the San Diego area!
Mike W — Google review
5/5 stars! Absolutely awesome experience! You pay the entrance fee and get access to a significant portion of the ship, even with ongoing restoration work. The volunteers are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly - LCDR Sidney went out of his way to ensure we didn't miss a thing! The audio tour provides detailed information, and the exhibits feature actual uniforms and planes used on the ship. We even got to see areas normally off-limits to civilians! The gift shop and cafe are great places to relax and learn more. I'd highly recommend this attraction and would definitely return, either on my own or with my husband. Don't miss the audio tour …. Fossil…. Fossil… Fossil (Phineas & Ferb reference g
Shannon Margaret Brott — Google review
The **USS Midway Museum** is an absolute must-visit when you're in San Diego. As a retired aircraft carrier commissioned in 1945, it offers an immersive experience that combines history, awe-inspiring exhibits, and breathtaking views.
1. **Hours of Operation and Tickets**:
- Open daily from **10:00 am to 5:00 pm** (last admission at 4:00 pm).
- Free entry for active duty military and reservist. Veterans ticket is $24 at window and $22 online. No senior citizen discount.
- You will need minimum 3 hours to explore the ship at decent pace. If you want to enjoy all the amenities, take pictures, have food and listen to audio tour, I’d say plan for 5-6 hours to thoroughly enjoy your visit.
2. **Parking**:
- Adjacent to the museum, there's a metered parking area wherein you can park for a maximum of 3 hours for $7.5.
- Parking is a pain whether rain or shine. Get in earliest possible to find a spot.
3. **Disability Access**:
- The Midway has made significant modifications to enhance accessibility.
- Elevators connect Navy Pier to the ship entrance, from the Hangar Deck down to the second deck, and from the Flight Deck to the Hangar Deck.
- Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available on both the Hangar and Flight Decks.
- ASL (American Sign Language) tours and audio descriptive tours are provided for guests with hearing impairment or visual challenges.
- Service animals are welcome, but check restrictions due to the ship's layout.
4. **Things to Do**:
- Explore the enormous flight deck with 29 restored aircraft.
- Experience flight simulators (additional $20 for two).
- Attend the Battle of Midway Theater.
- Take the self-guided audio tour narrated in multiple languages.
- Don't miss the Junior Pilot Program and overnight adventures.
5. **Views and Amenities**:
- The views from the Flight Deck are spectacular—ocean vistas, downtown San Diego, and the harbor.
- Enjoy the sea breeze and imagine life at sea.
- The ship houses an extensive collection of aircraft, many built in Southern California.
- The ship also houses a full fledged dining area.
6. **Displays**:
- Dive into naval history through interactive exhibits.
- Learn about the brave servicemen who served aboard the Midway.
- Discover the stories behind each corner of this massive ship.
In summary, the USS Midway Museum is an unforgettable journey through time, honoring the sacrifices of our servicemen. Whether you spend hours or days exploring, you'll be captivated by its sheer magnitude and the tales it holds. Be prepared for an enriching experience that will leave you in awe.
Remember, this floating city at sea is not just a museum—it's a living testament to courage, innovation, and the indomitable spirit of those who served. Enjoy your visit! 🇺🇸🚢🌊
Vijay Thakkar — Google review
As a documentary historic site, this infamous warship was once the very best and largest of aircraft carriers in the American Navy. Any boy at any age will be amazed at the ship, the exhibited airplanes, and that everything functions perfectly! You get to meet and talk to fellow crew members in former active service who can tell and show and answer all questions you may have. Americans are very proud of their joint forces, and this is a great opportunity to learn more about them. This is the best navy display on the entire US west coast! It's a must-see for all men and boys.
Barona Resort & Casino is a great place to stay if you're looking for an adventure outside of San Diego. The resort is located on a large piece of land, and offers beautiful gardens and rolling hills as well as lakes and pools. There are plenty of activities available at the hotel, including golfing, tennis, horseback riding, and fishing. Guests can enjoy fine dining in the restaurants or relax in one of the luxurious spa treatments.
They went all out to create a beautiful hotel and casino that would not only satisfy locals but those with above average taste. The design of the buildings are very elegant and the property layout is well planned. Service was of a very high standard. The moment you turn into the property, you are greeted by a guard waving and welcoming you, Valet is available or feel free to find your own parking spot. There are plenty of spaces due to the size of the property. A walk through the hotel on the second floor takes you to the casino entrance. Everything was very clean and the casino is non smoking. Plenty of beverage carts to serve you as well. I wasn't so lucky today so I did lose some money but I had fun trying to win.
Albert Perez — Google review
Everyone is super friendly and accommodating.
Smoke free casino floor and everything is VERY clean .
I loved every minute of my stay.
The food is great and spectacular service.
The drive in can be a little tricky if you are unfamiliar with the roads so I would suggest you drive in during daylight your 1st trip.
Good luck and enjoy the place and people !!!!!
Marie Harris — Google review
By far the best casino! Clean because it’s non smoking. Excellent cleaning service. Everything is always immaculate. The machines and restrooms. Service is also by far the best. You’re greeted before you walk in and after you enter. Drink service is always easy to find. They walked around with full service drink carts. You don’t have to order and wait for a drink. Although no alcohol served on the floor. Cashiers also walk around to cash tickets or get change. My favorite casino to visit.
nancie provenzano — Google review
The Casino it self has very friendly and helpful host. The place is super clean. The workers make sure of it.
When playing on the Casino floor make sure you play the slot machines as they make the most points for your Club Card. As for the Table Games.....they Don't give your Club Card every many points. Even though you spend a lot of you money or time there. So every Casino is different in there points for their Club Cards.
But the food court is Awesome 😎👍.
Matthew Sheka Sr. — Google review
Rating the casino only. First of all, the casino is totally non-smoking. I love that, and give ownership kudos on willingness to do that. On top of that, it's the cleanest casino I've ever been in...casino floor, machines, restrooms, everything. Staff is very friendly. My experience, in 3 visits, is that the slots have better frequency of payouts than most casinos I've been in in other parts of the country.
Jeff Skeate — Google review
I love how classy and clean the Casino is. The staff are always smiling and helpful. I like playing the slots. I hope the Buffet opens back up soon. I miss it! Loosen up your slots! My birthday is coming up at the end of March! I need to go have some fun! I love Barona Casino!
Teresa OBrien — Google review
The cleanest casino I've ever been in. The air is fresh and the atmosphere is very pleasant. Although we didn't win much at least the slots allows you to enjoy playing for hours. ATM's are free. The food court was amazing. We absolutely loved our time there.
Tracey Thompson — Google review
Really nice casino and everyone was friendly and pleasant to speak with! Great range of games all throughout. Only downside is they still haven't reopened their bar since covid. Makes for a downer if you had a night out with friends for some drinks. Would be great location to get away from everything!
Ant Martinez — Google review
Took my son since he's now 18. He won right before we were about to leave! The staff is very friendly, it is non-smoking, and very clean. They do have designated smoking areas from what I read online. Next time we visit we're going to try the restaurant. I would highly recommend visiting. The drive was also nice on the way there.
Jeanine Denise — Google review
Barona Casino & Resorts is another amazing place to visit, I live and have an hour and a half drive from the casino…love the drive there. As soon as you walk through the doors to enter the casino you get a warm welcome from team members..saying welcome home, and Barona lives up to that name. Parking is always great, with the convenience of a disability station with scooters to assist if you need some special attention. The staff at the players club desk are polite, friendly and continue to make you visit feel like home. Always had a great time at Barona especially if you play and the slots, tables and experience are very nice…winning is very good as well. If you play one thing about Barona is you never will go hungry cause of the food vouchers accepted at all food ventures, bakery and coffee shop…the coffee is the best I’ve tasted so far. If you are planning a stay, the hotel staff well get you squared away..as I mentioned already in my review the rooms are comfy, clean, secure and make you really feel like home..don’t forget to grab a cup of that good Barona coffee in the lobby. Also if you play the rewards are great at the casino. I hope this review will provide some assistance in decision making to visit Barona..you will definitely have the time of you life. I would highly recommend this casino.
Joe M Miller — Google review
I can't rate the rooms because I only went for the day to gamble. But guest services (Tom) was an amazing employee when he was signing my mother up for her players card. He's fun, nice and very informative. So many laughs while taking care of us. Made us feel very comfortable and ready to play!
I love the fact that it's a smoke-free casino and good food options in the food court. A beautiful casino floor overall.
I will be returning soon!
Mel C. — Google review
We always enjoy going to Barona and have been treated like family there for years. The staff is wonderful. The hotel is really nice. The food is very good, especially excellent in the steakhouse. We love the Indian frybread in the cafe! We especially appreciate that they are staying smoke free in the casino. It makes the time playing in the casino so much more pleasant. It's our "go to" place in the San Diego area.
Renae Flack — Google review
We enjoy staying up here for a quiet night away. The duck pond is nice to sit by and it's peaceful out around the golf course at night.
If we want to enjoy some excitement, a walk over to the casino is fun. It's non smoking, exceptionally clean, and I don't think I've ever experienced a more friendly staff at a casino.
Just an overall enjoyable experience.
Thomas Mangum — Google review
Besides the fact that they give the least amount of free play to regulars, or to me I should say, who is a regular, they really do have the cleanest casino of them all. Good variety of slots, and table games, I’ve won several large jackpots here, and the staff is pretty great. Also have the best food court out of all the sd. Definitely worth the drive
Nicolas Gonzalez — Google review
Very clean (no smoking) casino, exterior grounds and property well maintained. Restrooms clean and well stocked. Staff is super friendly. Loved the waving greeters. Very large assortment of newer slot games. Big gaming floor. Most comps are for diamond players. Recommend.
Tom Redman — Google review
I cannot say enough good things about this place and the staff. I was treated like I owned the place. The room was large and comfy. Step in shower AND a tub. Housekeeping was very accommodating. Everyone was exceptionally friendly and welcoming. The casino was clean and had a large selection of food places. Very reasonable food prices! I was so impressed with every interaction I had with staff. They truly made me feel welcomed and that they were happy to help me with any request. A real gem!!
Trina Alexknovitch — Google review
I don't gamble or stayed at the hotel, but I live in the area and I always enjoy driving up there. It's calming on days I just need to get out of the house. I walk around and hang at the food court. You hear the typical sounds of a casino, but it's never annoyingly loud. It has a pretty laid back atmosphere actually. I love their food court, particularly the dog stand and ice cream. Good prices for good simple food. I'd like to stay at the hotel one day which is why I only give it 4 stars. I can't say anything about the hotel 🤷♀️ they also have lots of parking there too so you'll never really have issues finding a spot.
Angel Garcia — Google review
I didn't stay in the hotel but did walk around the casino. Very clean and the staff is friendly. Bathrooms are clean and well stocked. Plant of areas to eat. We had dinner at the Italian restaurant and the food was amazing. They have cameras overlooking the cooks and you get to see how they prepare the food. Very nice experience overall. Not kid friendly.
karla ochoa — Google review
Did you know Barona Casino is the only casino that is smoke-free? Not only that, their scooters are free to use. I knowwww no brainer, right? The food court is very good and has a variety of delicious food items. The one fault I have is that the better restaurants are only for the diamond and higher customers, which I find is arrogant and elitist. How much more income they could realize if it opened up to the regular customers. What a waste. Overall, it is a good place to visit and maybe win some cash. Hope to see y'all there, just don't win all the money, leave some for me. See you there 👍.
David Troncoso — Google review
I haven’t been to this Casino In 6 or 7 years definitely before Covid. What set This casino apart from the other ones it was so kid friendly anyone under the age of 18 could stay in the hotel and walk the casino floor before 8pm now no one is allowed under the age of 18 and was so much fun packed on the Weekends and the slot were actually loose. Now my parents go maybe twice a year and always say the casino is empty and it’s a shame. Even back then you could purchase a room now the rooms in the hotel are set aside for the higher card members at least other casino sale rooms on a night basis and I rather go there instead of driving up to Barons from LA
Reginald Silva — Google review
The room was beautiful! So clean and fresh. Nice view over a small waterfall with surrounding plants. I loved it. Best thing!!! SMOKE FREE!!! The staff was very helpful, courteous and had no problem with answering questions. Quick and efficient! Location is good. Its not to far yet away from the everyday grind. My friend and I had a blast while enjoying a much needed reprieve. To say we had a lovely time was probably an understatement. Wished I'd taken pictures.
Dawn Short — Google review
Best casino in the world. They treat guest like royalty. Old Vegas style where the customer is king and the make you feel appreciated and welcomed.
Joe Stone — Google review
We went to the casino only. It was most orderly and clean. The bathrooms were impressively clean. The staff was very polite and helpful. A nice food offering at the food court, although most items were overpriced in my book. There was no sports book that I could find, about the only less than excellent thing I could come up with. Although it's over 20+yrs old, it has been kept up to date extremely well. There was plenty of parking too. I really liked that it was no smoking in all main areas. There IS a dedicated smoking lounge for those intent on killing themselves slowly. It was an excellent way to spend some time. Both my wife and I won at the slots, yet another plus... 👍👍👍
peter pinkham — Google review
Returned to the Resort and Casino a week ago and my host checked on us and provided excellent service, their food in the Steak house and Cafe is amazing. The room view was great. People were winning and the clean air and environment is great. Cameron is my host and he is amazing highly recommend him.
Silvia Ramos Ventura — Google review
I’ve been coming to this place for a decade. It was my favorite place in San Diego by far. The hotel is quaint and quiet, they have plenty of the exact games I like, and their staff is very friendly. A key to me continuing to come back is this felt like the only place around with fair payouts. With gambling, losing is part of the game. On average, I used to win big one out of 3 visits. It leveled out to where I was a Platinum member, with awesome Resort benefits. About a year ago, I noticed the machines had tightened up. Hard to get bonuses with zero payouts. This has happened on the trips for the past yea now. Everyone around me was complaining about payouts today, so I know it’s not just me. Once a buzzing casino floor with cheers and laughter is now comparable to a library. It’s quite different than when I first came here. Even my host confirmed the uptick of complaints because of the low payouts.
Since the payouts have been less, I have been coming less. My status was lowered to Gold. In order to get back to my old level, I would need to gamble about $7,000 in a month. This is my last stay here for the unforeseeable future. Gambling is a risk, but at this point I don’t feel the need to just burn my money in the machines. It’s a bummer that this place has declined.
John Decker — Google review
It's a very nice.. well put together establishment. The attendants are super friendly and helpful... I try to come back whenever I can. Also if you spend a little money in the casino... I would say that you are almost guaranteed to hit a jackpot of little or big proportion.... Depending on the amount you spend.
Balboa Park is a sprawling outdoor destination in San Diego that is home to the city's renowned zoo, 17 museums, gardens & more. The park also features numerous theaters and trails.
Such a lively place with plenty of foods and music. Great architectural buildings all over. Walking alongside fountains, sculptures, beautiful trees with so many people was a great experience. Nearby places are also amazingly beautiful. Cactus park across the road was superb as well. A very nice walk in well paved sidewalks.
Ashutosh Shandilya — Google review
True gem. This place has everything - gardens, museums, restaurants… if you are little lost, stop first in visitor center. They will give you a map, explain and inform what events are happening right now around. Very useful. I was amazed by architecture which was really close to the Andalusian one.
Aur?lia Blankenship — Google review
Best place to visit with kids, family and friends.
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre (490 ha) historic urban cultural park in San Diego, California, United States.
In addition to open space areas, natural vegetation zones, green belts, gardens, and walking paths, it contains museums, several theaters, and the San Diego Zoo.
most its regular 4 to 5 hours if you want to cover all area.
Pawan Rajput — Google review
Balboa Park is a captivating blend of art, culture, and nature. The architectural charm and vibrant gardens create a visually enchanting atmosphere. The diverse array of museums ensures there's something for every interest, making it a must-visit destination in San Diego.
Sara celis — Google review
This is such a beautiful area with so much to explore! Even if you don't go into any of the museums, gardens or any other venue inside it is a great place to just walk around! Has a great cluster of buildings from all different nations, interesting!
K S — Google review
I really loved Balboa Park while I was here last time. It’s even better with the perfect San Diego weather. It has everything that you would want. It has museums, San Diego Zoo, gardens, theaters, food, etc. it’s also a National historic landmark. I would have to return since I didn’t check out too many of the museums, only a couple. There is no shortage of parking spaces, very easy to find one then walk around. Just a note, we came on a week day and it wasn’t very busy at all. The architecture was mesmerizing and intriguing.
Nicholas P — Google review
When in San Diego even just strolling around Balboa Park is a must. Definitely a much cheaper option to the zoo. The museums are reasonable and absolutely lovely. Great little restaurant with beautiful sculpture garden where you can take your wine and have a drink. Nice and spacious, lots going on and something for everybody.
Jennifer Kelly — Google review
Great place to walk around and waste the day!! With or without the dogs and family lots to see comic con museum was there last week, automotive museum, and the Japanese cherry blossom 🌸 garden which was extremely beautiful just like the movies when the pedals fall to the ground it resembles snow. Must check it out while in season.
Josh Tardieu — Google review
Great park with a lot of attractions. The museums are great and worth getting a season pass or finding a deal online to go to multiple. The gardens are beautiful any time of year and great for a stroll. The architecture was the incredible. Walking through the court yards and walkways will yield a visual gem around every corner. Parking at the zoo and walking over is the way to go. Its free, plentiful, and easy to get in and out even at peak hours.
Amjad Kinhnarath — Google review
If you are visiting San Diego this place is a must see. Bring your walking shoes and get ready to walk through the many Museums, theaters, shops, and wonderful views this place has to offer. It was nothing of what I expected, the Balboa park connects several Cathedral style venues on this wonderful walkways that include the San Diego Zoo, the Natural History Museum and several other museums. We didn't even have time to see everything. There is a tram that takes you to all the parking lots. I went there on a Tuesday and it was very crowded, so weekends must get really packed. I highly recommend this place if you have a day to kill and spend some quality time with the family or significant other. Although I saw many snack vendors, I didn't see many good restaurants so I would recommend bringing some sandwiches or whatever you can bring to eat. There are many areas to sit under the shade and relax on the grass or a bench. We went inside the natural history Museum and paid the admission but was a little disappointed with it. It probably took us around 20 minutes to see the entire Museum, compared to the natural Museum in L.A., this place was very small and was in need of more exhibits. Other than that, I gave Balboa Park an A+ because it really impressed me.
Isrrael Espin — Google review
I've lived in San Diego for a decade now. I'm not a huge beach guy... Too crowded... Too many sharks... Too much sand. But Balboa Park is damn impressive! They have acres upon acres of green space with winding paths, gardens, bridges, and water features. They have world class museums with amazing architecture. They have a world class zoo and probably one of the only outdoor urban archery ranges?! Unfortunately they have a non-migratory transient population, but that's pretty much all of San Diego. And the place is big enough to share anyway. I feel like Balboa Park is always the perfect temperature too; Close enough to the ocean to have a cool breeze with tall eucalyptus trees providing relief from the sun. If you're coming to San Diego for the weekend, don't miss out on Balboa Park.
Samson Leonard — Google review
Certainly one of the nicest spots in San Diego! Hosting the historical buildings of the universal exhibit, it can be easily visited on foot. Different museums can be found on the way. The park is huge, and it needs a full day at least for a proper visit.
Margot — Google review
Visited the museums and the Japanese tea garden. The Japanese tea garden and museum were like a breath of fresh air for my soul. The zen vibes of the garden made sipping tea feel like a peaceful ritual. Exploring the museum was utter aww, discovering the beauty of creative artists. It was a day well spent, soaking in nature and history, and I left with a heart full of good vibes.
Niti — Google review
The greatest location in all San Diego, adorable and really friendly location. Majestic choices of multiple museums. I wish I had the opportunity to visit all of them. But just walking by the all parc is an impressive experience where is great to go around and enjoy the street art. The grass is so beautiful. There is a lot to do around there, like enjoying the street art artist or enjoying a seating in the parcels with a lot of friends. Strongly recommend anyone who’s travelling around San Diego. I’d like to mention and Thanks a lot the nice ladies from the visitor information center, they were really nice, welcoming and helpful. I’m grateful for their information. I’ll wait for you in Vancouver ;) thanks
SG SG — Google review
Wonderful place for wandering around enjoying time with family and gorgeous scenery. Parking was tough the day we went, but once parked and out of the car our visit was amazing. Can't wait to go back!
Theresa St. John — Google review
Beautiful place to visit with the family. Very serene. We stopped by after a visit to the museum. Parking took about 20 mins to find however it was well worth it. Great place to visit when you’re in the San Diego area.
Lovelle Monty — Google review
Gorgeous architecture and gardens! Well worth the visit, even if you don't go inside the museums. There's such beauty everywhere, food and gift/trinket vendors, a couple restaurants, and talented music performers placed thoughtfully throughout (electric violin, acoustic guitar, flute etc). Start at the information desk to get a map. If you do want to go inside the museums, they have a rotating daily schedule that lists what buildings are open that day, which is usually a handful. Wear good walking shoes and get there early as the afternoon is very busy.
sotagirl1 — Google review
Balboa Park is a cultural oasis in the heart of San Diego, where you can explore, play, learn and discover. Whether you are looking for art, history, nature, or entertainment, Balboa Park has something for everyone.
You can visit one of the 17 major museums, ranging from fine arts to natural history, from science to photography. You can enjoy a show at one of the several theaters, including the historic Old Globe. You can marvel at the beauty of the 18 free public gardens, featuring roses, cacti, orchids and more. You can also meet the animals at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,700 rare and endangered species.
Balboa Park is not only a place to see, but also a place to do. You can join a guided tour, take a class, watch a demonstration, or participate in a festival. You can also rent a bike, play golf, have a picnic, or ride the carousel. There is always something new and exciting happening at Balboa Park.
Balboa Park is a national treasure that has been delighting visitors for over a century. It is one of the largest urban parks in the country, covering 1,200 acres of landAd1. It is also one of the most diverse and inclusive parks in the world, celebrating the cultures and communities of San Diego2.
If you are looking for a fun, educational and inspiring experience in San Diego, look no further than Balboa Park. It is truly a place where you can find your park3.
Ashley Barnette — Google review
Nice park with 2 expos that held here. As a results, the historical building and museum along with impressive garden are spread around. Music performance, park, restaurants, it’s a place to chill and spend lovely time with friends. It’s larger than I expected. Love this place.
The Foodie Architect — Google review
Beautiful building structures and a bunch of Museums to visit. If you do a simple search, you can see some have free days. It’s a beautiful walk at night as some of the building have a light shining at them.
I did attempt to go to the haunted trail, so it isn’t there quite yet, maybe in October.
This park is one of the must visit spots, doesn’t cost a dime. I highly recommend it for tourist or family visiting in a weekend.
Marcos R — Google review
Probably in spring or summer a better time for a visit. January rather not. However, nice buildings and villages (Spanish village).
Having a complete day the forest paths would be interesting.
Michael Vees — Google review
Cool place with gorgeous views. There are many things you could do or see. Definitely recommending to visit it. They have really cool zoo there that I definitely recommend to visit with friends or family 🔥👍
Dima Yakovets — Google review
New York has Central Park and San Diego has Balboa Park which is hands down much larger. But, stats include a few museums and the famed San Diego Zoo; which more than likely have additional fees.
Either way... If you are in the area spend a day or two exploring the park and all it offers. It was very nice and peaceful.
Walter Day — Google review
Beautiful place to walk around. There is so much to see the buildings are beautiful. Wonderful places to eat. Nice playground for the kids. Relaxing place to just enjoy.
Anita Solis — Google review
Enormous park packed with play areas, picnic areas, gardens, dog walking facilities and an array of museums.
There really is something for everyone here; you can either choose to spend a fortune on entrance tickets or nothing at all and still enjoy the park.
Michael Lees — Google review
Excellent experiences in this amazing San Diego park. There are numerous museums with fees, there's the outdoor Organ Pavillon with numerous free concerts, check out the free international cottages filled with cultural information.
Huge park, lots of walking, hidden trails and amazing trees, flora and flowers and fountains.
Eating is spotty, a couple of expensive restaurants, take your picnic lunch as there are numerous locations for relaxing in the shade.
LaDawnya — Google review
I cannot believe I haven’t been to this place. I lived in San Diego for a few years and I visit here every year. This was my first time to Balboa Park. The architecture was stunning. The grounds were gorgeous. We didn’t have to pay to park, and we walked around and saw all the amazing buildings and artwork. The small museum was free to enter. There even was a St. Patrick’s Day parade going on. my daughter wanted to go into the cannibal exhibit. There were so many different museums that you could’ve entered. They all charged though. There was public bathrooms. The tall clock tower at noon was the best part. Hearing the chimes was great, but the music that it played at noon was so fun.
Kristen Kupinsky — Google review
This is a great place for so many things to do and see. I went for one museum and ended up walking the entire complex and checking out the sites. Found places to eat and many places to visit. Absolutely beautiful place but if you want to see it all bring your wallet because most require some $$ to get it. I did not want to spend a lot so I ended up just walking the grounds and seeing all the beautiful architecture and landscaping. Would recommend even if it is to just walk around and view the sights
Robert Jantz — Google review
Super beautiful park!!! I was so shocked with how many attractions and things to do. Manyyy many museums and little shops and eateries. Definitely can be entertained for hours here. From working out, jogging, sight seeing, shopping, etc. 10/10 recommend.
Seaport Village is a popular shopping mall in downtown San Diego. It has about 50 shops that are open throughout the day, year-round. The mall features a cozy and inviting atmosphere with lovely gardens and fountains surrounding its waterfront area.
Wonderful Place!!! Love the little shops. It's very well kept and has clean restrooms. It has a lovely classic carousel. Places to eat. Great Photo opportunities. What a great place to enjoy the water either at night or during the day. Make the time and come down! GOD BLESS!
Ernie Carrillo — Google review
This little harbor village is great for a walk. It's right next to USS Midway but the vibe is quite different. Slower but more friendlier. Many shops and great view of the ocean. Plenty of benches and beach seats for a relaxed sightseeing. The parking lot charge fee but you can get validation from stores or restaurants.
Andy Mai — Google review
Perfect spot for San Diego visitors. Restaurants, shops, carousel, hotels, musical venues, and so much more. A must for first-time visitors and great locals hang out. There are plenty of parking and restrooms. Fun for all ages and families. Don't miss!
Ms Mona — Google review
This is a cute, family friendly, picturesque shopping and dining area in San Diego. Right along the water, it is a great spot for tourists and locals alike. There are lots of cute little restaurants and shops. This is a great place to pick up souvenirs and explore. It’s also walking distance from the headquarters and the USS Midway.
Robin Curry — Google review
The scenery was beautiful at Seaport Village. The weather was perfect. The boats and yachts were out. Perfect spot to share with lovers,friends, and family alike. There was biking, walking, exercising, and boating. Places to eat, lots of room for children to play. If you're visiting San Diego, start your treasured new memories here. 💯❤️
Gloria Smith — Google review
Late post
Came with some friends and one of them kinda broke her leg so she we knew we couldn’t walk around too much but the Village itself is quite beautiful, people come to walk around the boardwalk, chill at the park and best of all they are dog friendly. The stores are typical of most places, The Bay company souvenir shop, boutiques, sun glasses, hat store, crazy shirts, toy store, hot sauce store and so much more. Can’t wait to come again and actually walk around the whole place! Give them a visit!
Tawny Valdez — Google review
Lovely afternoon at the Seaport Village.
Scenic walkable area with lots of small shops and food options.
The main parking lot is about $8 per hour...but arriving at around 5pm on a Thursday afternoon, we saw a parking lot next to that one for only $5 for three (3) hours. Keep an eye out for this one if visiting.
Lots of photo ops along the San Diego Bay.
You can walk along the water up the USS Midway, piers, Maritime Museum and Waterfront Park areas.
Jason Persaud — Google review
This place has been a favorite of mine ever since I first visited it in 1989. Seaport Village is a monument to me. A valuable historical artifact. From fine dining, stores, art galleries, breweries and waterfront walkways, you can’t pick a better place to spend time with friends, family, or just your pups. It’s a favorite of locals and visitors alike!
Eric Atilano Sr. Loan Officer NMLS #394507 — Google review
A beautiful walk by the bay with sailboats everywhere! Many unique shops with great souvenirs and gifts. Food trucks and sit down restaurants in all price ranges and each having waterfront views. Public restrooms were available which was very convenient and they were clean. Sitting areas with umbrellas along the walkway. Definitely come back at night, it has a magical ambiance with lateras and lights lighting the paths.
H Caballero — Google review
There’s a lot of little shops such as, gift shops, souvenir shops, yummy food, drinks, henna tattoos, tarot readers, cool views, places to hang out on the dock. It can get crowded a bit even tho we didn’t go on a day where it should have been. I liked it a lot ❤️🔥
Abigail H — Google review
Seaport Village is a fun place to visit. There is something for everyone, you g and old. Also, there is lots of wheelchair accessibility and it is very near downtown. The views of the water are amazing. You can see the Coronado Bridge, walk downtown, and even visit several museums. There are a lot of shops and restaurants so be sure to bring your appetite. There is also live entertainment, especially on the weekends.
Cristian Arreaza — Google review
What a great place to either walk around and enjoy the scenery or do a little bit of shopping. Lots of little shops and restaurants, outdoor or indoor. Beautiful waterfront walk. Walking distance from downtown, also to the USS Midway Museum. When you are in San Diego, make sure to give yourself a few hours to meander through the little paths and walkways. We had a bite to eat and stopped for a drink in a couple of places. Everyone seemed very friendly and welcoming. We were in San Diego only for a few days, and made sure we came down to seaport a few times. Seems like there was always something going on, buskers or some festival... Fun times!
Eva Munch — Google review
It was super bowl Sunday a few hours before the game started and a friend and I went down to see Port village for a walk. There are a lot of great shops and restaurants of course, and it was a beautiful day.
Mike Hess brewery was not too crowded and my friend mentioned they had great tacos so I was in! We had a surf and turf taco, grilled shrimp, and a Veracruz taco as well. Can't remember the fourth taco but they were all delicious!
We also tried a few drinks, one of which was a lavender seltzer that was pretty good, and my friend had one of the beers. Fantastic atmosphere, great people watching and other views. Highly recommend and I will definitely be back.
Summer Sandberg — Google review
My wife and I had a wonderful time walking while enjoying the wonderful weather and sites. There are many activities to do and enjoy. Plenty of stores and restaurants. The place is well kept and clean. My only advice is map out the parking spots so you have different options for parking as it was very hard to find parking. My suggestion is the underground parking located at the Waterfront Park. The fee is $15.00 for the day and they are open up to midnight. It is also a couple of blocks away from Little Italy. I recommend visiting Seaport Village.
Marlowe Soyangco — Google review
One of the best spots I've found to take beautiful photos. Had a bottle of wine and walked around with friends. The shops, park and atmosphere are great. It's dog friendly. There are many places to eat and drink. Saw people flying kites and having a good time. At sunset the boats and water look amazing. I plan on visiting often and taking lots of photos. Seaport village is a big area so there is a lot to explore. It would take more than a day or two to see all the attractions. There is also fishing tours and cruises that can be booked there as well. O e place I plan on seeing is the aircraft carrier museum.
Jessie Moe — Google review
Quaint little coastal touristy haven. There are tons of places to get a bite to eat, breweries, wineries...... We did the SEAL tour to see the sea lions... We spent a complete afternoon/evening. There are many gift shops and places to just relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Crystal Bejjani — Google review
The place is beautiful. Nearby the sea, offers an ideal evening walk. A lot of gift shops to buy memorabilia to save your beautiful memories with. On the other hand, it was a nightmare finding a parking spot on a Saturday morning.
Φίλιππος Φιλίππου — Google review
Quirky collection of shops and cafés in a unique setting right next to the water. Obviously set up to cater for the tourists but very pleasant regardless.
Michael Lees — Google review
More than any other place, when I think of San Diego, I think of Seaport Village. Not only is it a picturesque walk along the San Diego Bay, complete with views of Coronado Island and Bridge, naval bases, ships and vessels (military or otherwise), the yachts in the marina and, if you're lucky, a pod of dolphins or whales swimming by, but there's plenty of things to do, see, and myriad places to explore, experience, shop and dine, for locals and tourists alike!
Parking is plentiful-enough, although absurdly expensive. Do yourself a favor and find a place nearby, and walk here, to save yourself an unnecessary and exorbitant fee.
Jason Van Camp — Google review
Before visiting Seaport Village, we were forced to panic for a while because of the silence when we were pushed back by crowds in Little Italy. If I had been asked early in the morning, I would have seen freshly caught tuna cut on the spot, but I don't regret it. Because we had a very satisfying breakfast thanks to you. It has a beautiful port and a beautiful garden and park where you can take a walk. Two old veterans were anchored and very touching. It's a must-visit place when you come to San Diego.
M Pak — Google review
The first time I came to Seaport Village I really enjoyed walking the art galleries and shops. However, since that visit most of the art galleries have moved from Seaport Village. There is now one art gallery - the Christopher Harvey Art Gallery, which I did enjoy..
Most of the stores are now tourist traps selling cheap souvenirs. But there is plenty of dining options.Dining has never been on our agenda the days I have visited.
Still, I did enjoyed the walking along the pier.
Leisa Watkins — Google review
Best place in San diego. View was beautiful. Large lawn gives you peacefulness and neatness. There's no solicitor, marijuana smell and homeless.
Restaurant nearby was also perfect. Hope you visit here and have memorable experience :)
Inwoo Nam — Google review
Cool little spot with tent vendors. Businesses mostly sell souvenir-type things. There are a couple of restaurants I would want to go back and try. The air smells delicious because of all the food being made here. Also, they have a huge indoor carousel for the kids.
Remie R — Google review
This place is gorgeous and it has it all. I’ve been to SD multiple times, however I didn’t know this place existed. There is so much to see, there are lots of cute little shops, restaurants, ice cream shops, beach chairs to enjoy the ocean view and sunset. It’s a must!
Vanessa Chaudhari — Google review
A beautiful waterside complex with many shops, restaurants, a nice promenade with a beautiful sunset. It's a big contrast to Downtown San Diego, where there are many homeless people and empty storefronts from bankrupt businesses. When you walk from the Convention Center here you will feel that San Diego is a beautiful city.
Cirrus Sanofi — Google review
Overview: Seaport Village is a perennial favorite among locals and a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the area. Whether you're a tourist or a resident, this charming waterfront destination has something to offer for all.
Diverse Shopping Experience: While it's true that some of the shops cater to tourists, Seaport Village is more than just a tourist trap. Among the myriad of boutiques, you'll discover hidden gems that offer unique, locally crafted treasures. It's a shopping experience that invites exploration and surprises.
Saturday Fish Market: If you're a seafood lover, Saturdays at Seaport Village are a treat. The fish market boasts a wide selection of the freshest catches, making it a seafood lover's paradise. Don't miss the chance to savor the ocean's bounty in this picturesque setting.
Festive Spirit Year-Round: One of the standout features of Seaport Village is its festive atmosphere. From lively summer celebrations to enchanting Christmas events, there's always something happening here. It's the perfect place to create lasting memories with family and friends.
Conclusion: Seaport Village isn't just a place; it's an experience. Whether you're strolling through the diverse shops, indulging in fresh seafood, or immersing yourself in the festive spirit, there's a little something here for everyone. It's no wonder that it's a go-to spot when showcasing the best of the area to visitors. Seaport Village truly captures the essence of the waterfront lifestyle and is a place where memories are made.
The Petco Park stadium is in San Diego and is home to the San Diego Padres. It's a beautiful modern stadium that's popular for sports and concerts throughout the year.
Great ballpark, one of our favorites now. We sat in section 108, row 13. Great seats behind the visitors dugout. Food was nearby just up the stairs, could see everything and had multiple chances of getting balls every inning as the visiting team came into the dugout. Highly recommend this ballpark if you are thinking of visiting like we did from Texas. Temperatures were amazing too!
Matt Reeves — Google review
Nice ballpark enjoyed the beautiful scenery and sight lines! Found the staff to be somewhat rude though. Good game to watch from multiple angles of the ballpark. Food and Beer is way overpriced even for Southern California. All in all a pretty good time!
liam o'connor (Meatball prod) — Google review
Came for a Saturday game with friends, and sat in section 311. We had good people all around, making it more fun. The view is good, and having the big screen on the opposite side helped. The bathrooms were clean. There are multiple concessions for food and drinks. Food was good for stadium food. I would definitely come back for more games.
Gil Copuz — Google review
I love this ballpark! It has changed over the past 2 decades, but they still use it every year for all their baseball events. This site works quite well for home games. Unfortunately, they have to rely on the other teams when they play on the road. This can be a real hassle if the other team is negligent and lets homeless people camp out in the visiting team's locker room. It can also be a problem if you hate dragging all your equipment to another city and have to stay in a motel on the wrong side of town. Danger lurks, you can be sure of that.
Banger Lo Truglio — Google review
The remodel is amazing! Make sure to have an empty stomach because there is So much good food at the arena. Highly recommend their bacon wrapped hot dogs at their ball park stand, chicken al pastor tacos and the nachos at puestos! Make sure to bring some
Sunscreen in case you forget you can always ask their employees. If it’s your first time
Going to the ball park make sure to stop by the service desk for a possible freebie! Plenty of parking nearby but not so much free in price. One of a kind stadium for sure!! Animal friendly. Wheelchair accessible. Plenty of restrooms. Very loud atmosphere but fun.
Hannah Bringas — Google review
The greatest stadium in all the United states! The best service as far as the overall Customer service goes we have accurate directories and the fastest food service Happy hour starts as soon as the gates open up until the first pitch! The bottom of the eight is the cut off as far as alcoholic beverages goes! The most amazing atmosphere I've ever experienced in my life! Concerts at the part are amazing and full of energy! This park is a must when it comes to experiences in life this is one that will blow you away! Positive energy all over the park! You won't regret coming here as far as the best food spots go Ballpark eats and Hodads are your go to spots in the park there are multiple bars throughout the park for your specific needs as far as alcoholic beverages goes.
Angelbaby Olvera — Google review
Seats are great for viewing the game even in the upper deck. Skyline on the water is breathtaking. Checked this ballpark off the list of ballparks to visit. Four of us had bacon wrapped hotdogs and a soda for about one hundred dollars. Seems pricey, but they were good and satisfying. Don’t think I would come back to this ballpark, but mostly because of our experience with the other people attending the venue standing in food lines “Bertha better than you”
M Godlewski — Google review
What a beautiful ballpark. First of al it’s San Diego, so great weather. Lots of restaurants and drinks. Super clean facilities and the park on whole was well kept. This place is awesome. When you done , walk outside to catch the rail or visit the famous “Gaslight district “. We went for an early afternoon game and had a fantastic time.
Rob Stephenson — Google review
The most beautiful baseball park I have ever been to! The feeling was electric and the fans were kind. They have so many fun restaurants and vendors with lots of good food. (I highly recommend the smoked brisket sandwich at Grand Ole Barbecue) It is a magnificent place and it doesn’t matter where you sit the game is almost guaranteed to be exciting and fun! If you are ever in town and want to see San Diego’s (in my opinion) best attraction stop by for a game if you come during the season or even just to see the field and the view of downtown and the water!
Chloe Keller — Google review
Petco Park is a fantastic stadium in beautiful San Diego! I've had the pleasure of attending a few games here, and it's always a great experience. The atmosphere is electric, the staff is friendly, and the stadium itself is well-maintained.
One thing that stands out is the variety of food and drink options. You can find everything from classic ballpark hot dogs to more gourmet choices.
The only minor downside might be the parking situation, but that's common for many city stadiums. Overall, a great place to catch a game and enjoy the San Diego vibes. 🌞🌴🌭⚾
Ace Baker — Google review
One of the best baseball stadiums in the USA. World-class food at all the different vendors. Great sight lines. Gaslamp quarter is fun after games. Ride the San Diego Trolley. Traffic can be tricky.
Kevin Anderson — Google review
An exceptional baseball stadium. No bad views, access is easy and straightforward, food options are solid, and all the staff are well-trained and seem happy to be there.
Its location in the actual downtown of San Diego meshes so well that everything feels natural getting in and out.
josh lee — Google review
Had a fantastic time catching a game while on vacation. Loved the ballpark and how it fits so well into the city. Got to see the Trevor Hoffman and Tony Gwynn statues. Anyone that’s even remotely a baseball fan should catch a game there if given the chance.
Anthony B — Google review
I was surprised how wonderful this ballpark is! We went to see Holiday Bowl (college hockey) Oregon vs North Carolina and the weather was perfect! Our seats were in the end zone section 128 and we had a fantastic view of the game. The food choices were good too. Great atmosphere.
Aleksandra Morel — Google review
Got to dine on the rooftop of the Western Metal building with a private group, had the usual baseball fare of hot dogs, sloppy joes, nachos, peanuts and popcorn. But there are so many great food options throughout the park that you've gotta try. It's a very nice stadium near Little Italy, and numerous restaurants. With going early or staying late to explore around the stadium.
Colleen S — Google review
Great park, truly. But you need to regulate people better. Allowing visitors to walk in front of other spectators while active play is happening is AWFUL. I've been to college games where this is better. Parks where maybe 1000 people show, and it's more respectful. Hire some folks! Also, the lines for food are outrageous, you cannot bring in anything due to bag restrictions, and finding a clean place to pee is impossible. Do better!
Amber Robbins — Google review
First time being here 9.19.24
Went with coworkers to a game and we had a blast. Loved the vibes from everyone, the craft beer was delicious, it was a great experience. A place I definitely will be coming back to.
micaela chagolla — Google review
Only four stars just based on the price of stuff here. Yeah tickets are affordable but for a hot dog and a 16oz beer you're gonna pay $30. Guess that's the price of the west coast though. Sucks having to make a decision between merchandise or food, still fun nonetheless.
Stacey Sykes — Google review
Petco Park was a wonderful place to experience as a visiting fan! Beautifully designed with wonderful premium seating if you want to splurge. Top notch food and drink options galore and very friendly staff no matter what team merchandise you are wearing! The one big negative was signage - it was an incredibly confusing ballpark if you aren’t a regular and it seemed like there were too many opportunities to go the wrong way while trying to find something. If you are going to an afternoon game, make sure you look at maps of what seats are in the shade that you can find online. Can’t wait to return someday!
Reed B — Google review
Went to the Billy Joel /Sting concert and had a blast! The box seats are awesome. If you haven't had a chance to experience it, recommend it all the way. Great food, drinks, private bathroom! A must do😀
Carmen Nucci — Google review
Awesome experience. We visited San Diego, CA last weekend and had to catch a game at Petco Park and it was worth it. We sat in section 300 row 19 and the seats had an amazing centered view. The backdrop of the city skyline is great. We circled around the area for almost an hour trying to find cheap parking and eventually got a street spot for $1.25/hour which was great considering all the garages charge $55..
Christopher Cunniffe — Google review
One of my favorite ball parks. The atmosphere is very welcome. A place to watch the game with friends and family or just enjoy a relaxing time for a gathering. Best time during the Padres season. Military friendly and tickets are within reasonable price. I went during the poncho giveaway and only paid $40 for entry. I'll definitely attend a few more games before the seasons end.
Daniel Cheung — Google review
Attended a couple games in August and the place is amazing. Such a fun atmosphere. The team wasn’t great, and they were out of the playoff race, but they still sold the place out. So many things to do there in addition to watching the game. We also did a stadium tour one of the days. I would also recommend that if you have the time.
Eli Slesk — Google review
One of the most beautiful ball parks I've been to! The newly-renovated Ghallager Square and the children's play area is so pretty! This park and all it has to offer is a destination, even if you are not a baseball fan!
E Berry — Google review
Great ballpark experience. Love the food, Hodads is the best. I went for the Holiday Bowl, even though it is a baseball field it was still a good experience seeing a football game there.
Brett Langdon — Google review
Our first time at Petco Park for the Billy Joel and Sting concert was truly unforgettable. Despite the rain, the venue's impressive design made for an amazing experience. The open-air atmosphere, coupled with stunning views, created a magical backdrop for the music. The sound quality was impeccable. We had a fantastic time and can't wait to return for future events. Highly recommended for anyone seeking an unforgettable entertainment experience!
Paulina Oliva — Google review
Let me just say this is a great ballpark! Rudy was our ambassador for the tour, and he did an outstanding job and was very knowledgeable about the park and baseball in general. He is a true baseball fan! There were a few places that were of limits that previously weren't, but that didn't bother me as we got to see plenty. There was a ton of constructing and preparations going on for opening day, but we were able to see everything. I would highly recommend doing a tour of this beautiful park, and if you're lucky, you'll get Rudy!
Robert Jantz — Google review
One of the best ballparks America has to offer, super fun atmosphere and fully prepared for a large crowd. Had a lot of fun and can't wait to come back someday. (The beer can be kinda pricey at 15 dollar a piece, but I digress).
Coronado Island is a resort town located in San Diego County, California. The island is connected to the mainland by the San Diego-Coronado Bridge and has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The island is predominantly known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, but also contains a number of interesting historical attractions.
Hilton hotel is very beautiful 😍.
Lot of events happen in hotel premises and near the beach area.
The beach is beautiful.
Kids love to play with the sand . Even adults like it .
Houses are beautiful.
Different experience traveling to this beautiful island.
View from the car while crossing Bridge connecting to this island is marvelous.
???? — Google review
I recently hopped over to Coronado Island with my family and it was an absolutely fantastic trip. From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the island's charming and laid-back atmosphere. There is so much to see and do on Coronado Island, and it's the perfect destination for a family vacation.
One of the highlights of our trip was definitely the beautiful beaches. Coronado Island has some of the most beautiful and well-maintained beaches I've ever seen, and we spent hours swimming, building sandcastles and soaking up the sun. The water is crystal clear and the sand is soft and powdery, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Another standout feature of Coronado Island is the variety of activities and attractions available for families. We enjoyed exploring the charming downtown area, which is filled with cute shops and restaurants, and we also visited the famous Hotel del Coronado, which is a must-see for anyone visiting the island. There are also plenty of parks and playgrounds for kids to enjoy, as well as bike rentals and other outdoor activities.
Overall, our trip to Coronado Island was an absolute delight. The island is a charming and laid-back destination with beautiful beaches, a variety of activities and attractions, and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect place for a family vacation and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and memorable trip.
Big, beautiful beaches. Lots of restaurants and shops. Was here just before Christmas so a lot of lights and decorations were up and there was an outdoor skating rink at the Hotel Coronado. What an amazing place that is. Hope to come back again soon.
K A R — Google review
Love the Island . We went to the Easter Bunny Breakfast . Kids had a blast .
Joanie Sullins — Google review
Nice place to visit during sunset. Parking could be a bit tough by the beach so parking on the neighborhood streets could be an option.
Great to see nice looking homes through out the stretch
Rengesh K — Google review
A must visit spot! Beautiful view, black sand with gold specks. There were a lot of sea shells, and we found sand dollars
Jennifer Silva — Google review
Beautiful island
Huge beach
We definitely will go back and spend more time on the island
Adam — Google review
Great town, beaches, boardwalk and bridge. Nice to go through the streets and beaches.
Doggo — Google review
Beautiful beaches, the Hotel Del, plenty of shops and restaurants along the water, fun atmosphere great for people watching, proposals, fireworks, you name it!
Lia Padilla — Google review
Always a 10 star experience. Love the sunsets and local spots. Amazing place to experience, truly.
Brian Johnson — Google review
Definitely worth a visit. If you’re staying in Central SD, take the ferry from the Broadway pier or convention center. Walk around the island toward Hotel del Coronado or take a bike. And definitely stay for sunset.
Claire Johnson — Google review
Wonderful Christmas day trip. Ice skating by the beach amazing. Buffet for brunch was amazing and great Gluten-free options
Stella Alvo — Google review
Absolutely magical year round, the holidays are just spectacular~ even with the huge waves. Photos do not do Coronado justice.
Ms. Teacher — Google review
It’s great for a weekend treat. Nice views as well as great for beach walks and if you are into cycling there are many bike lanes. You can cycle and take a ferry back.
Natasha Denkovski — Google review
Rented bikes and took our time exploring the circumference of the island. Had a blast, highly recommended!
elvis — Google review
Great place to hang out and see the beach. A visit to the Del is always nice. Many good food choices in the town.
The Coronado Bridge, which spans over the San Diego Bay, offers a perfect view of the city skyline and passing naval ships. It is a landmark bridge that is worth visiting if you are in San Diego. The bridge has beautiful architecture and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the bay. It's an early morning favorite for photographers as the light shines brightly on it.
Amazing drive across the bridge with mesmerizing views of the ocean, San Diego and Coronado. The breeze of air is unmatched, it is an amazing experience. This bridge is a bit long and not to mention perfect height for you to take pictures. Have your camera ready before driving across!
Evander Quijas-Torres — Google review
The Coronado Bridge is an iconic bridge in San Diego and the drive across it was very scenic. I especially enjoyed the curve where I could see the bay and the whole city! What a neat work of architecture!
Kiet TT — Google review
Beautiful place for walking with a city and bridge views, especially at night! Recommend!
Oksana Artiushyk — Google review
Gorgeous view I feel in heaven my all family enjoyed the view
valenteen peejo — Google review
It is an iconic bridge in San Diego. We had to cross this bridge and go to Colonado Island, but the driveway was restricted due to weekend markets and events, so we had to go a long way.
M Pak — Google review
Views from the Colorado Bridge are so amazing. Such a beautiful sight. Down below is Chicano Park and crossing it is the suburbs of San Diego. You gotta drive thru at least once if you are visiting. It's a landmark!
Melystikal — Google review
Pure engineering! I love me some math that just makes sense. This 2 mile bridge is a work of art and worth the drive across to Coronado. My wife didn’t like it as much as I did since she hates bridges over water and heights. So that was entertaining as well. 😝 A must see if you’re in San Diego. Stay classy and always remember the true meaning of San Diego, 🐳 🐱
Shawn — Google review
Very cool bridge with great view to haven and San Diego
Colin Zhong — Google review
Here are some in-depth pics of the inner workings from this bridge and its gorgeous views over looking Coronado and Downtown San Diego. A lot of hard work and dedication goes into maintaining this bridges integrity and its 2+ mile long beauty. Big salute to the men/women risking their lives daily... Thank you for all you do! SALUTES🫡
Jay T. — Google review
very long bridge and drive across but amazing views of the city. the bridge itself has no design though.
abu bana — Google review
It was beautiful here. The day was rainy and overcast. Not busy at all.
LKathleen Lindsey — Google review
Iconic San Diego… lovely to see from San Diego, going under in a boat, flying over in a plane, and driving over to Coronado Island. Beautiful at sunrise, daytime, sunset, nighttime…graceful, Art.
B Owens — Google review
Beautiful view from the bridge when leaving work!
Kobe Long — Google review
Good looking views of San Diego skyline and bridge. Bridge could have used bike lane or walk lane plus little bit of glitter would have enhanced ocean view. Driving has no view. From park, you can see views.
Aalok Gautam — Google review
There is so much to love about this bridge! It's truly a San Diego icon and great to photograph from any part of the city and Coronado. I do wish they had a bike line or a walk path for the bridge since you can't see the views that well when driving on it.
I felt like I'd stepped into a little piece of heaven. This place is just so special, unique... a must see for yourself kind of place. I actually joked to my daughter when we first arrived, "Are these people like paid actors?" LOL. There were kids playing in the sand box, a gal taking a nap on a blanket in the grass, people playing badminton, a guy pulling laughing kids in a wagon while running through the perfectly manicured grass, a family having a birthday party at one of the many picnic areas, people sitting around tables and on benches drinking a coffee or smoothie from the outdoor cafe enjoying all the plants, flowers, and fountains. It looked like we'd stepped onto a movie set or a photo shoot for Better Homes & Gardens! But it was just real people spending real quality time at a really magical place.
Erin Aquilante — Google review
We came here yesterday (March 1st) just to grab some coffee and enjoy the scenery on my husbands birthday.
The property was just beautiful!
A very Zen vibe and a lovely spot to be outside and enjoy the grounds.
I had never been there before but hubby had- this was where he wanted to spend the morning on his special day.
The parking lot is cramped and although we didn’t have any problems yesterday, I imagine it’s pretty tight on busy days or weekends. But there also appears to be places to park outside on the street.
The weather was nice and we spent about a hour just walking around outside enjoying the sunshine.
There are SO many cute, scenic little spots to take pics, watch the children playing, sit with the chickens, or watch the bees flying from flower to flower.
There’s a garden maze they said will bloom in April and a water feature including a little bridge. They bring character and charm to the property and adds to the overall garden-farm atmosphere.
SO MANY beautiful blooming flowers!!!
The coffee shop is right in front upon entering and very cute. I loved my mango iced tea the gentleman working there made.
He was really nice. I think he’s one of the owners. I met the other owner inside in the gift shop and we chatted a little bit though I kinda felt like I was bothering her.
She was pleasant enough I guess.
I’m probably just too chatty. I was just excited because I wasn’t expecting such a wonderful selection! - so many great choices it made me want to hang out and take my time looking around.
I’ll have to come back specifically for gift shopping some other time.
There were many gorgeous, artisan style gift ideas! Lots of handmade and artistic pieces - I could’ve spent hours in there thinking of people I needed to get stuff for! Haha!
A much better, more interesting selection than other places (I hate shopping in big box stores or online)
Literally there’s a possibility of something for everyone- depending on the occasion.
I hope to visit again soon and will definitely spend more time looking around at all the special treasures this shop had to offer.
Overall - a lovely place!
I recommend a visit even if it’s a bit out of the way if you don’t live near Alpine.
It’s worth the drive!
A Andrews — Google review
My FAVORITE place to relax and do some shopping. This place is cozy and inviting! The scenery is absolutely gorgeous. Check out the soap shop and the gorgeous plants the have for sale.🥰
Jennifer Gambill — Google review
Very cute,love all the spots to take pictures. Interesting items in the store. They even had fresh cut flowers
Martha Rodriguez — Google review
Cute spot for a date or to bring kids. Beautiful grounds with flowers, bridges, antique scenes, chickens, and a gift shop. Plenty of Free parking. Delicious coffee shop.
Miguel June — Google review
Beautiful grounds, lovely path ways and fun little hidden fairy gardens. A nice selection of plants and herbs. The handmade soaps are amazing and the gift shop has two friendly cats.
Rose S — Google review
Went to the 30 year anniversary celebration, featuring an Antique and Craft show. The flowers were in bloom and the mood was light. Always a joy to go back to the garden at Symmers Past.
Jacqueline Stauch — Google review
We love coming here in the spring to get away from the city, enjoy a late, and grab some plants and local seeds for out garden, and walk through the shop and maybe get some hand made soaps. Our kid loves running in the field and looking at the chickens. Great Sunday morning kinda place!
Phil Sweet — Google review
This place is so relaxing! They have a coffee shop and a little gift shop filled with great stuff. The people here are wonderful. In October they have a little pumpkin patch. This is a great place to bring your kids. They have lots of room for them to play and have a picnic. I will be coming back.
Leigh Richards — Google review
This isn’t my thing but my wife hauled me out here and I was impressed. Very cool and relaxing. Lots of shade and greenery. Didn’t get any shots in the store, it was more my wife’s thing. The nursery was nice and I scored a lavender. They also have a coffee bar on the patio, we had the lavender lemonade which was delicious. Not too sweet or lemony. The grounds would be great for a wedding.
Jay Schimke — Google review
LOVED this pumpkin patch activity! Brought the in-laws and my sensory-needs kiddo last Sunday before Halloween expecting a mad house at Bates. This was the most tranquil experience that we ALL enjoyed! They have an easy to access parking situation right off the highway. Some hay bales for kids to climb and jump on, some balance beams, pumpkins of course (~$11-24 for most), a beautiful garden/nursery area where I bought some healthy marigolds for $3.50! And a lovely gift shop as well as a cute outdoor cafe area and bathrooms on site. There’s a tiny chicken coop on-site with feather-feet chickens. Wonderful place, looked to be dog on leash friendly (3 were present).
Sabrina Bauer — Google review
I used to come here as a kid and was in town again with my daughter and we both had an amazing time. It is such a beautiful place and we will definitely come back anytime we are in town.
Bryanna Mccaulley — Google review
Today was our first time visiting Summers Past Farm. I came home and started to write a review of this beautiful day. I came across such a negative review and it struck me as very rude. I have decided to respond:
In response to Cindy Pugh's review. I cannot imagine that the owners (I'm fairly sure that the people Cindy referred to 'are' the owners) are as rude as Cindy alluded to. I found them to be delightfully friendly and very knowledgeable about plants, etc. The owner made us feel so welcomed. Their entire property is very lovingly maintained and has a very peaceful vibe. Perhaps this bad review is a reflection on Cindy's state of mind. Sounds to me that she's just using the gardens open space to let her kids come play for free, disrupting the peacefulness of this most beautiful garden. Maybe it's time to take your children elsewhere. I highly recommend visiting this lovely garden. We will most certainly be back again and again!
Nancy Bradley — Google review
A true hidden treasure! There's an adorable sweet pea maze in the beginning that opens up into the garden. I came on Mother's Day and a lot of vendors with booths were laid out on the grass. There was a beautiful wooden bridge and waterfall and my family got a lot of wonderful photos. They sell wild honey and goats milk soap. Such sweet anr lovely people.
We love the community events here. We used to do family yoga on Sundays and we have been to some concerts and educational talks here. Our toddler loves to run around and play in the sand box. We've been inspired by a lot of the landscape design here as well.
Raymond Collins — Google review
The garden is very educational. There are tons of plants, gardening methods, implements, and etc. on display. There is a gift shop and bathrooms. You get free popsicles as of right now. They do social functions if you reserve the room. Very cool. The membership to the garden includes discounts to plant nurseries and I think its 10% off. Nice.
Matthew Shafer — Google review
My daughter went on a field trip here and came home raving about it. Then my mom took her to spend a day with her and my mom came back raving about it. So finally we all went together and I cannot tell you how right they were. From the staff to the grounds to the education, everything was wonderful. Very inexpensive for something fun to do in east county. They sell plants there as well, mostly succulent clings they've grown but fairly inexpensive as well. They're are water features for the kids (or grown kids). The kids section had games and instruments to play with. Ton of wildlife to explore and if your kids is like mine and loves to collect nature, if its in the grounds they can pick it up if they want to. Really fun place!
Alex Hendricks — Google review
Love, love this garden! Great place to spend the day, learn about native and drought tolerant plants and take lots of pics!
We came to buy some milkweed, as our caterpillars are extra hungry this year!
Linda at the front gate was wonderful! She was so kind and helpful, we ended up purchasing an annual family pass. Thank you!
Sabrina C — Google review
Beautiful botanical garden! Sooo much to see! Next time I definitely want to go when they have the tours. Also, went on a much cooler day. Great time. They were even setting up for a wedding, looked to be beautiful! Find the chocolate flower and give it a sniff! (My fav)
The vegetable garden was my favorite part!
They also have a butterfly enclosure.
Hipolito C. Moreno — Google review
A beautiful garden with interactive activities. Also educational exhibits on conservation, turtles and koi pond. Statues, nice trails and many varieties of plants and trees. Highly recommend!
Mamie Zembal — Google review
The Water Conservation Garden is located in El Cajon next door to the Cuyamaca College. It’s purpose is to educate everyone of all ages and inspire to conserve water while utilizing natural resources through interactive exhibits and programs.
The garden features themed gardens, games, musical instruments, vegetable garden, koi fishes, butterfly pavilion and much more. The garden allows visitors to explore trails while educating with interesting facts throughout.
Tips: From the main entrance, through the plaza we made our way to the right side, mainly because there are musical instruments, the butterfly pavilion and the secret water sprinkler. All those areas do take time while the Garden Exhibit (left hand side) is more of a stroll and observing. After we went around the loop we went through the middle area where there is a gift shop with ice cold treats for the kiddos.
Free on-site parking lot area is available (if parking does get overflown, there is also dirt parking in the same area)
Bathrooms are located near the main entrance
Gift shop with snacks are available.
Garden Admission: Adults $11, Children $8 3-17 years old), $7 (2 & under), Seniors $11
Closed on Mondays
Garden workshops are available
Claudia Ortiz — Google review
Love this well cared center. Large wide paths, lots of trees, running water, stage area for events and a great area for little ones. There are plants for sale and a small gift shop. Go early to hear the morning birds sind and swoop round.
Henry Gallardo — Google review
I see why little ones would have fun here. There are plenty of things to do for children. The butterfly greenhouse was nice and cute too. It is not a big place. The parking lot is small but they have extra spots in the dirt lot. Every second Friday of the month is free. Bring your lunch and have a relaxing time in the shade. Wear comfortable shoes and some shades because it can get hot here.
Stissy S• — Google review
Xeriscape garden. Still a very nice place to visit on the second Friday of each month when admission is free. I believe the cost is $11 per adult now, and I don't feel it is worth paying for.
They still conduct workshops and Ms Smartyplants conducts classes for children about what is found in this environment.
Located on Rancho San Diego Pkwy in El Cajon as you enter the drive to Cuyamaca College. Limited parking.
MP Ryan — Google review
This garden is beautiful! I highly recommend it if you love succulents and other varieties of plants. They also teach you about water conservation.
Leigh Richards — Google review
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12122 Cuyamaca College Dr W, El Cajon, CA 92019, USA
Great trainers! I had a private hawk walk with them to propose to my girlfriend with the hawk being my "wing man" and not only did she say yes but the experience was awesome! The hawk was well trained and really content to just hang out on your glove :) They had a fun way of teaching about Falconry and set up amazing glove to glove flights, having the hawk swoop was awesome to experience. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Leon Vanguard — Google review
This was the perfect raptor tour. Our guides knew their stuff and gave clear and concise information about everything from husbandry to conservation. Not only that, they made efforts to know the names of participants, which is no small feat. There was plenty of time to take pictures and see these birds in action in their normal habitat. I left the tour excited to put what I learned into practice. I have already told all my friends about my experience and am encouraging them to join a tour soon; you should too!!!
Thanks Sky Falconry for providing this wonderful space to be up close with these majestic birds on your beautiful property!
Ekaette Mbong — Google review
My family and I did the basic falconry class and LOVED it. The adventure truly does start even earlier than getting there with the beautiful drive up. We were then told where to park and to fill out a very straightforward waiver. The actual experience was very educational and fun! Definitely an experience of a lifetime. Check out some of my favorite pictures…
Michelle Nuwer — Google review
What a great time we had. This was mine and my wife's 12 anniversary date. I was a bit nervous going into it. However, after the owners gave us a brief education and as we began I became more comfortable. We took a nice hike and had more interaction than I anticipated.
We learned a lot. And as a hunter I have a better appreciation for why lead shot is now banned. I left very impressed and I highly recommend this experience for couples.
Joshua Utley — Google review
We booked the private raptor experience for two to celebrate our birthdays, and we could not have picked a more fascinating and beautiful experience! Master falconers Denise and Kurt maintained a great line of communication from the very start of our conversation, answered all our questions and concerns and ensured a very enjoyable experience. We got to meet and work with their Falcons and Hawks as part of the private raptor experience and the birds were a marvel! They are absolutely gorgeous, majestic and clearly well loved and cared for. We got to learn about their personalities, differences in habits, flight behaviour and hunting styles. It felt incredible to witness the birds take off of our gloves and fly into the wilderness and return when called. To see these wild predatory birds work so closely with the falconers speaks volume about their trust in both of them. The beautiful San Diego mountains in the backdrop just added more magic to the moment. Also, Denise’s pictures and editing skills are something else! It was a lot of fun to be able to share such high quality pictures with our friends and family. Highly recommend and this experience will go down as one of the tops in our lives.
Helen J — Google review
Went on a Hawk Walk. Was the most FANTASTIC experience ever!!! There was a lot of interaction with the hawk. The hike was great with a great view. I will definitely do this again. The falconers were great and very kind and knew a lot about their art with their birds. Everyone should do this at least once a great Bucket List TO-DO!!!!
Chris
Christine Miller — Google review
This was some of the most fun I’ve had in a long time. The guides were very knowledgeable, funny, and so accommodating. A beautiful drive out and perfect views to take in while learning. I will now add this to the list of things I bring my friends to do when visiting SD!! Jump on this!
Al H — Google review
I brought my nephews with me for their Christmas present and wow, what an amazing and unforgettable experience. We absolutely LOVED IT! It’s one thing to see these magnificent birds out in the wild but to get to see them up close and have the opportunity to interact with them was truly so very special. Denise and Kirk were a wealth of information and made it such an enjoyable learning experience. They do such an incredible job and you can tell they are so passionate about what they do, they love what they do and truly care for their beautiful birds. I will definitely be back again and I would highly recommend this experience. Thank you so much Sky Falconry - we had an incredible time!
t t — Google review
So much fun getting to fly these beautiful creatures. My wife set up a private class for us on Easter day. Drove out from San Diego and met our instructors Kirk and Denise who are the nicest people. They are very professional and really taught us a lot about these beautiful birds. We met Habibi the Falcon and Shanti the Hawk. We were able to interact with both birds and watch them fly. A two hour event that will not be forgotten soon. Thanks for the great time Kirk and Denise. You are doing a great thing with these animals.
Kayvon Homayoun — Google review
OH MY GOD! This was the most awesome experience. The guides were just wonderful and funny the whole time. Very patient with us. And the birds were just beyond amazing. Everyone should do this at least once in their life. These raptors they work with are just wonderful. I will definitely give this as a birthday or Christmas gift to friends & family.
sadaist — Google review
Wow, Sky Falconry was exceptional! My partner and I did the Hawk Walk and had a great time. Denise and Leah were very friendly, incredibly knowledgeable about falconry, and a joy to spend the morning with. It was amazing to see these incredible birds up close and in action. I would encourage anyone curious about the experience to participate!
I also highly recommend the Hawk Walk specifically as I felt it gives you more time with the birds, more chances to fly them, and a great view of San Diego scenery.
Thanks again, Denise and Leah!
Ani Villarreal — Google review
If you’re looking for a unique and educational adventure with birds of prey, you’ve found it at Sky Falconry! We booked a Private Hawk Walk (1.5 hours) and it was such a personalized experience. Our guides, Denise and Kurt, were exceptional— their passion for falconry was so genuine, and they answered our flurry of questions with enthusiasm and expertise. The one-on-one interaction with the birds (both hawks and falcons) amidst the picturesque San Diego Mountains was nothing short of magical. The private setting allowed for an intimate and unrushed exploration, enhancing our connection with nature and these majestic birds. What added to the seamless experience was the clear directions provided by Denise and Kurt, which helped us locate the property easily. It would be best navigated in a car with higher clearance! I can’t recommend the Private Hawk Walk at Sky Falconry enough for anyone looking to dive deep into the world of falconry in a personal and hands-on way. AND… they help take the best pictures so you can remember the experience forever!
Riley Insko — Google review
I can’t begin to explain what a wonderful experience this was! We did a hawk walk class and an owl encounter- absolutely amazing! Denise and Kirk are knowledgeable, down to earth and kind keepers of this ancient art. Highly recommend to anyone that loves nature and animals.
Sunny Rogers — Google review
We booked a Private Raptor Experience with Sky Falconry and loved every second of it! Denise and Kirk are engaging hosts and passionate ambassadors of falconry and raptor conservation. Their birds are absolutely magnificent, with all of the activities designed to highlight their natural behaviors and accommodate their individual personalities. If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, this is it. We will definitely be back!
Madeline Luth — Google review
My husband and I did the Raptor experience including the Owl and we had an wonderful time! There is no small question to be asked as they are so knowledgeable and responded all our question with so much and super interesting information. One can tell they really love what they do and transferred the joy and love to us. We flew 5 birds , all of them majestic animals, to be treated with the utmost respect, it was truly a visceral experience, we can't wait to do it again!
Leyla Zamora — Google review
What an amazing experience. I have not been able to stop sharing!!
I chose the Private Hawk Walk with the added Owl. We learned so much about these beautiful birds. We met one owl, Tig, two very fast falcons and Stream, the beautiful hawk. The entire adventure was more than I anticipated.
Kirk and Denise are very friendly, full of knowledge, and fun!! Looking at the photos and seeing all the smiles, makes my heart happy, and I have Kirk and Denise to thank for it.
This experience is like none other and I cant wait to do it again!
Tracy J.
tgoth99 — Google review
Starting with the hosts, Denise and Kirk are super friendly, passionate and dedicated to educating attendees. Not only will you leave knowing much more about raptors, but you'll be a better steward of the earth!
An incredible location!! Just the dirt road drive to the ranch with it's panoramic views is worth the price of admission! And last but not least, Steam, the Harris Hawk....a beautiful, lovely animal with an intensity that will melt your heart ❤️❤️
Charles Gross — Google review
Our family of 4 visited Sky Falconry last week and had an AMAZING adventure. My husband gave me a gift certificate for Christmas last year for a private adventure for our family of 4 (including 2 boys - ages 18 and 21) and we finally found a time we were all able to go.
The visit to Sky Falconry exceeded all of our expectations. The property is beautiful and Denise and Kirk are wonderful teachers and awesome photographers!
We learned about falcons and hawks and watched them fly and even have them land on our gloves. A once in a lifetime experience for sure!!! They're so majestic, and super lightweight. I just couldn't believe I was 1 foot away from the beautiful birds, looking into their eyes, and that they trusted me enough to perch on my glove.
The education about the birds is great too. This would be a wonderful experience for anyone. For gifts I prefer experiences with my loved ones over material gifts, and this was the best experiences yet. I will never forget it!