America’s eighth largest city is San Diego. For its sunny atmosphere, cheery air and laid-back attitude, it is fondly called ‘America’s Finest City’. Cut out perfectly for the vacationer, San Diego makes it hard not to let down your hair and chill in their many holiday destinations. There are bustling beaches, the peppy downtown museums and zoo, all made more perfect by the sunny weather. Have fun at any or all of these happening places in San Diego:

San Diego Zoo:

San Diego Zoo is undoubtedly one of the biggest attractions in the whole of South California. It has an incredible number of 3000 animals belonging to about 650 species all set up in landscapes replicating their habitats. Equipped with a map, you will find the convenience of a double decker bus, an express service bus and Skyfari cable car to get you across the vast expanse of the zoo. Some of the habitats created here are Elephant Odyssey, Gorilla tropics, Tiger River, Absolutely Apes and Sun Bear Forest. Koalas, Komodo dragon, Asian Bears, siamangs and orangutans are but some of the many animals you can set your eyes on all in the same day.

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Torry Pines State Reserve:

The state reserve is on the border of the Pacific Ocean towards north of La Jolla. It is around 18 miles from downtown San Diego. The 1700 acre natural reserve is ideal for hiking and bird watching in the midst of various fauna and the rare Torry Pine trees. Trails along the coastline here are beautifully cut out for enjoyable hikes. You can also stop for a swim at two of the beaches, Black Beach and Torry Pines State Beach, that the State Reserve is home to.

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USS Midway Museum:

For a guided tour of the longest-serving American aircraft carrier, head to USS Midway Museum. You will get first-hand information about the life on a US Navy aircraft carrier. About 60 different exhibits are displayed and the tour also takes you to the engine room, crew’s cabins and even to the ship’s jail.

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Coronado Beach:

Owing to its tranquil atmosphere and central location, Coronado Beach is popular with families. The beach is endowed with scenic vistas and has the backdrop of tall mansions. Walking along the one and half line shoreline, boogie boarding, bodysurfing and sand castle building are some of the favorite activities engaged by tourists at the beach.

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Gaslamp Quarter:

With 16 blocks of Victorian-style buildings, the Gaslamp Quarter is a popular place for shopping, eating and nightlife. You can wind your way through the many streets or simply hop on the Old Town Trolley Tour to discover the bustling sights of this neighborhood.

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Cabrillo National Monument:

Located around ten miles from downtown San Diego, the Cabrillo National Monument is a statue of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to navigate the Californian coast. As the monument stands 422 feet above sea level, you get to see amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and the Naval Base and also spot whales especially during the months from December to February. Also try out the Bayside and Coastal hiking trails surrounding the monument and visit the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and visitor center while you are here.

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Mission Beach:

One of the most bustling beaches of South California, Mission Beach is popular for sunbathing. Its boardwalk is a favorite with inland skaters and cyclists. The nearby Belmont Park with its Giant Dipper rollercoaster is another attraction both for kids and adults alike.

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Sea World:

Situated around seven miles from downtown, SeaWorld is home to a range of marine wildlife. Visitors can spot California sea lions, dolphins, otters, killer whales, sea turtles and many other varieties of marine life. Kids are in for a treat with the many rides like the lightning fast Manta Ray rollercoaster, Shipwreck Rapids ride and Journey to Atlantis. The underwater shark viewing tunnel, penguin habitat and Wild Arctic ride/ exhibit are some more attractions.

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Sunset Cliffs Natural Park:

Most visited for its scenic views, the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is spread over 68 acres. It stretches for over one and a half miles along the Point Loma peninsula’s shoreline making a drive a spectacular experience. Sunsets are beyond description from the vivid sandstone cliffs of the park.

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