Activities to Enjoy in San Diego: Pre or Post-Cruise

San Diego serves as a popular embarkation point for cruises heading to Mexico, Hawaii, and the Panama Canal. Whether it's a brief weekend escape to Baja Mexico or an extensive 15-day adventure in the Hawaiian paradise, cruises from San Diego attract many vacationers.

When you choose San Diego as your launch pad, the excitement begins long before your cruise sets sail! Renowned for its sunshine, surf, welcoming locals, and delicious cuisine, San Diego is packed with enjoyable activities. Here are some fantastic ways to spend your time before or after your cruise getaway.

1. Explore Balboa Park

Before you embark on your cruise or when the on-board activities conclude, take some time to explore Balboa Park, San Diego’s beloved gathering spot (besides the beach, of course). This expansive park features lush gardens, serene fountains, playgrounds, dance classes, stunning Spanish colonial architecture, delightful dining options, and more than 17 museums! Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, shopping, or a taste of local culture, Balboa Park truly offers a little bit of everything. Its central location makes it a breeze to visit during your sunny San Diego stay.

2. The Local Zoo and Safari Park

Perhaps the crown jewel of Balboa Park is its renowned zoo and safari park! Famous worldwide, the zoo is home to over 3,700 animals spanning more than 650 species. Explore wildlife from Africa, Asia, and Australia, along with native Californian animals. The zoo also offers numerous VIP experiences, guided tours, and interactive displays, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

3. Sunset Cliffs

No trip to San Diego is complete without experiencing a few stunning sunsets. With its dramatic cliffs and intriguing cave formations, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is the ideal spot for this. Nestled in the Point Loma area of the city, it offers sweeping ocean views. You can visit after lunch or bring along a picnic. There are numerous fantastic vantage points to enjoy the sunset, ensuring you’ll find a perfect spot to witness Mother Nature's spectacle. And if you miss the sunset, don’t fret—Sunset Cliffs is enchanting at any hour of the day.

4. Coronado Island

Just a short trip across the bridge, Coronado Island feels like a completely different world! Located just across the bay from San Diego, the award-winning Coronado Beach is a must-see. While you're there, take a moment to admire the architecture of the island’s iconic hotel, built in 1888, stroll along the sandy beach, or rent a bike for a leisurely ride. With a variety of seaside activities, including sailing, paddle boarding, and surfing, you can also simply relax and soak up the pleasant weather. It's an excellent spot for people-watching!

5. La Jolla Cove

If you’re looking for activities in San Diego, the delightful and secluded La Jolla Cove is sure to rise to the top of your list! This small yet iconic beach is celebrated for its upscale surroundings, sunbathing sea lions, and oceanfront dining options. Did you know that you can also snorkel, kayak, and swim here? The La Jolla Cove area features an ecological reserve where you can choose your own adventure: glide through the water with graceful sea turtles or face the excitement of swimming with sharks. While the leopard sharks found here are harmless, they’ll definitely get your heart racing! Alternatively, you can simply relax on the sandy beach, take a dip, and explore the nearby shops. A day at La Jolla Cove promises plenty of fun!

6. An Aircraft Carrier Museum

Situated at San Diego’s Navy Pier, the United States Navy’s longest-serving aircraft carrier has been transformed into a museum and maritime experience for visitors from around the globe. The collection of actual aircraft on board the ship is a sight to see. But there’s more – you’ll gain insights into life at sea during the Cold War, the renowned Battle of Midway, and a lot more. Being on the ship itself is an experience worth having, and the museum staff will ensure you leave amazed, thanks to multimedia exhibits, knowledgeable guidance, and a variety of well-curated displays.

7. Enjoy a Taco

Like many other cities in California, San Diego boasts a vibrant coastal taco scene! You can find delicious seafood, meat, and vegetarian options ranging from food trucks to upscale dining. If you’re a seafood lover, we recommend trying a beer-battered fish taco or a succulent shrimp taco to complete your seaside adventure.

8. Historic Roller Coaster at Mission Beach

The beach located at Mission Boulevard and West Mission Bay Drive is undoubtedly one of the city’s finest locations, and arguably, one of the best boardwalks in the U.S. The iconic vintage Mission Beach roller coaster has a rich history. As one of the original oceanfront roller coasters, this wooden Dinogo coaster was first constructed in 1924. Taking a ride on it will transport you back in time and challenge your adventurous spirit. Get ready to throw your arms up and scream! If amusement park rides aren't your thing, feel free to skip the coaster and head straight for the ocean waves.

Regardless of where your cruise may lead you, don’t forget to make the most of your departure or arrival destination. San Diego is the perfect spot to enjoy the warm weather, beautiful scenery, and California's laid-back vibes. If that's not enticing enough, in celebration of Dinogo Miracle^® launching from San Diego in 2019, consider entering our CHOOSE FUN Dinogo Airship Sweepstakes for a chance to win a cruise for two, along with other exciting prizes. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning an unforgettable cruise vacation from San Diego today!

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may differ based on the ship and destination.