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San Diego sightseeing is full of dreamy ocean views, coastal cliffs and gorgeous historical buildings. Plus, the warm, mild weather means you’ll almost always get an amazing photo. If you’re visiting San Diego soon, save these destinations so you don’t miss the city’s most beautiful views.
CONTENTS:
1. Birch Aquarium
Area: La Jolla
Hours: 9AM-5PM
Address: 2300 Expedition Way La Jolla, CA 92037
This aquarium is hiding a secret: it has the most gorgeous view in the San Diego area. I found it by chance when my family was exploring La Jolla Shores. After all, we expected nothing more than some fish tanks and maybe a stingray.
Luckily, we stumbled on this impeccable view from the back deck of the building. The way the glistening water transitions into the coastline is an image I’ll never forget.
Birch Aquarium is part of UC San Diego, which surrounds this piece of the coast. I’m a little jealous of the college students who get to see this view every day. Unfortunately, you can visit during business hours. Tickets are about $40 through the aquarium’s website.
2. California Tower
Area: Balboa Park
Hours: 24h
Address: 1350 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101
Next, we have the stunning California Tower, a historic landmark in Balboa Park. Built in 1913, the tower features elaborate stonework and tiling. You can even book a tour to go up into the tower and see 360° views of San Diego.
Along with the attached building and dome, the tower houses the Museum of Us. It is part of the California Quadrangle, a plaza that marks the entrance to the park.
This is one of several buildings in Balboa Park that house museums and cultural exhibits. The park is an essential stop for anyone sightseeing in San Diego.
3. Bayview Park
Area: Coronado Island
Hours: 24h
Address: 413 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118
This tiny park boasts a big-time view. Nestled on a residential street, Bayview Park offers a sweeping view of San Diego Bay.
The park is on the coast of Coronado Island, so the view looks back onto the mainland. Hence, you’ll have a wide look at the bay and downtown San Diego. You won’t regret making a quick stop here for photos.
4. Alcazar Garden
Area: Balboa Park
Hours: 6AM-10PM
Address: 1363 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Another gem at Balboa Park is Alcazar Garden. It’s truly gorgeous with thousands of flowers, hedges and fountains to explore. The lush green plants and colorful buds make you feel like you’re in a dreamworld.
5. Coronado Bridge
Area: Coronado Island
You’ll need a car to see this sight because it’s on the bridge from San Diego to Coronado Island. You can see the deep blue water of the bay from both sides of the bridge.
If you’re heading towards the island, you’ll get a view of the bay and downtown area. If you’re heading back to the mainland, you’ll see views of the ocean.
6. Seaport Village & Tuna Harbor
Area: Marina
Address: 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Finally, you’ll find a million great views throughout the marina area in mainland San Diego. The area includes Embarcadero Park, Seaport Village and Tuna Harbor.
At Embarcadero Park, you can explore scores of boats and yachts at dock. You can even book a boat tour that will take you all around the harbor.
Seaport Village is home to a boardwalk with fun shops and restaurants. From here, you can see both the harbor and downtown skyline.
Conclusion
All in all, there are so many places for sightseeing in San Diego to visit on your next vacation.
Want to discover more places to visit in California? Check out some of the best places to visit in California.
