For vacationers taking a West Coast cruise or a tour along the Mexican Riviera, sunny San Diego is a likely starting point—and what a wonderful starting point it is! The second-largest city in California, San Diego is rich with history, nightlife, and outdoor fun, making it an ideal spot for a cruiser to spend an extra day or two checking out the sights.
The San Diego cruise port is located in The Embarcadero, the city’s bustling bay district. Several museum vessels are moored here, allowing history buffs to wander the decks of many types of ships from the last 150 years. One can also sign up for a real adrenalin rush aboard the racing yacht, Stars & Stripes USA-11, or hop on a tour boat to go whale-watching or coastal sightseeing.
Just a short walk from the cruise port are two of San Diego’s nightlife hubs: the Victorian-era Gaslamp Quarter and the authentic Little Italy neighborhood. Each of these districts offers a variety of exquisite dining and evening entertainment options. Much of the year, they also host an array of street festivals that draw tourists from far and wide.
The biggest tourist draw to the region is SeaWorld San Diego, one of the largest marine parks on the planet. Guests here can enjoy a huge variety of thrill rides and stage shows featuring animal actors such as beloved Shamu. The theme park also has an educational element, where families can learn about their favorite sea creatures through engaging hands-on experiences.
San Diego’s 1,200-acre Balboa Park is also home to a host of world-famous attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, which has long drawn visitors to see its naturalist exhibits and resident exotic animals. It sits on 100 acres and encompasses miles of walking trails, so guests should plan to spend several hours here for the most fulfilling experience.
Aside from the Zoo, Balboa Park also contains nearly 20 museums, a handful of stages and theaters, and several beautiful gardens. A free trolley winds through the park during daylight hours, making it easy for vacationers to get around.
Of course, San Diego is also renowned for its laid-back beach life. Flanking the city are several family-friendly beaches like La Jolla Shores and Coronado Beach. For a funkier San Diego beach vibe, visitors should head to Ocean Beach, where one can watch world-class surfers hang 10.