(Newswire.net — March 1, 2016) — San Diego show-cases the best of California’s laid-back culture and offers tons of potential destinations and activities for the adventurous and the intellectual; it’s virtually impossible to be bored in this city.
If you’re visiting San Diego for vacation, or if you’re just a local who wants to relive some of the best perks of being a native, be sure to check out these top San Diego destinations this summer:
- Hit up the San Diego Zoo. You’ve heard of it for a reason. The San Diego Zoo is one of the biggest, best-maintained zoos in the country, so even if you’re not a big animal lover, you’ll still have a lot to experience by visiting. And if you are an animal lover, prepare to be floored. With a history of more than 100 years and consistent ratings as the number one zoo in America, the park is always adding new animals and new attractions—so even if you’ve been there before, it’s worth stopping in to see what’s new.
- Go Whale Watching. It’s one thing to see exotic animals in the zoo, but it’s another to see them up close and personal. This may not be in San Diego, but it’s located pretty close. In Newport Landing, you can reserve a space on a craft and journey into the ocean for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see marine mammals in their natural habitats. Gray whales, blue whales, fin whales, humpback whales, and even orca whales are commonplace, and you’ll also get to see multiple species of dolphin on a good day. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a hammerhead or great white shark!
- Balboa Park. Lush with beautiful gardens and an open atmosphere, it would be nearly impossible to list all the things to do in Balboa Park in one entry of an article like this. The cultural arts center frequently hosts performances, and museums are everywhere you turn, including the San Diego Air and Space Museum, Automotive Museum, Natural History Museum, and History Center. You’ll also find play areas for the little ones to enjoy.
- Torrey Pines State Reserve. Torrey Pines is a state reserve that rests entirely within San Diego city limits. Stretching over 2,000 acres, it’s one of the best-maintained patches of natural scenery along the coast. Keep in mind that this is not a public beach area, nor is it a park. Instead, it’s a perfectly preserved swath of nature that comes with a few additional restrictions. But if you’re looking for a peaceful place to observe truly natural scenery and wildlife, this is the place for you.
- Walk the Bay. Stretching more than 12 miles, you won’t find a single location for the San Diego Bay. Instead, you’ll have the opportunity to meander around the area, checking out all the cool shops, chic restaurants, ocean views, and of course, the other people. You’ll also find an aircraft carrier museum and the USS Midway, a museum in its own right. The Bay also hosts special events throughout the year, including a special Fourth of July fireworks display—so keep watch for new event listings.
- La Jolla Cove. If you’re in the mood for beautiful scenery, La Jolla Cove is a must-see. Surrounded by cliffs and ecologically protected, it’s one of the most popular destinations around San Diego—and for good reason. Here, you’ll be able to kayak, snorkel, or even dive if you’re brave enough. After you’re done, you can grab a bite at one of the many restaurants surrounding the area.
San Diego has a lot to offer—too much to try and contain in one list. With some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the country and stimulating museums and attractions to boot, you won’t have to worry about what to do next; everywhere you turn is something interesting. Keep watch for special events as they become posted, as San Diego’s beach and park areas are home to frequent special events, and try not to pack everything into one day.