San Diego is full of surprises.
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Though it often falls into Los Angeles’s shadow, San Diego has a distinct identity that’s not quite like the rest of SoCal. It’s the US’s capital of microbreweries, for example—even though not too many of us think about indy brews when we think about California.
It’s also highly walkable, deeply historical, and has some of the best weather in the United States. It’s diverse, it’s young, and its economy is healthy and modern.
I’d call it a hidden gem, but considering how quickly the city grew last decade, I think the secret is out.
And with hotspots like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Santa Barbara nearby, it’s a growing destination for many tourists. Most are after its quirky and cultural offerings, along with San Diego’s great weather and historical appeal.
Unsurprisingly, there’s a tour for just about every type of interest, from kayaking to brewery tours to historical train rides.
But which ones will have you signing up a second time? Keep reading for your ultimate list of San Diego tours.
Best San Diego tours
San Diego Whale Watching Cruise
This whale-watching tour is different from all the others in one major respect: You’ll be on a sailboat, not a motorized vessel.
In fact, you’ll be aboard a faithful replica of a ship from 1851. That’s important because motors scare sea creatures away. Less noise means you get closer to marine life, and more often.
La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two
Just like with whale-watching tours, you won’t be short on sea kayaking adventures that explore the caves of La Jolla. But the magic here is the small number of guests.
Fewer guests mean that you get more time to speak with your hosts. Plus, you’re more likely to spot marine life because they’re less intimated by the small number of kayaks.
Intro to Mexico Day Trip (Tijuana)
I very rarely recommend city tours that take you outside the city itself—after all, what’s the point? But you can’t know San Diego until you’ve taken a closer look at Tijuana, its sister across the border.
Don’t be intimidated. I promise, Tijuana isn’t what you’ve heard in the headlines.
Incredible Slot Canyons to the Pacific (Torrey Pines)
Did you know that stunning, Moab-style canyons line the coast just outside San Diego? Welcome to the slot canyons of Torrey Pines. These gorgeous grottos line the Pacific, which you can explore with the help of an experienced guide.
Small Group Sunset Sailing Experience on San Diego Bay
With so many fusion foods and Mexican dishes available throughout the city, you’ll want a helpful guide to take you on a gastronomic journey. Plus, you’ll learn a few historical and cultural factoids as you sample five distinct dishes from five top restaurants.
USS Midway Museum Entry Ticket
Nab your no-line tickets to the USS Midway Museum. This is a top pick for naval hobbyists, along with children. Whether or not you’re intrigued by exploring a naval ship, I recommend you go.
This museum is highly celebrated thanks to its vast range of exhibits. Plus, there are tons of planes. (They say the US Navy is the second-largest air force in the world for a reason!)
Petco Park Stadium Tour – Home of the Padres
Just like the USS Midway, Petco Park is a bigger deal than you might think. Petco Park is regularly listed as one of the best stadiums in the US. It’s new, it’s located downtown, and it offers great city views. Plus, baseball is big in San Diego.
Night Date Glow Pedal Boat with Downtown Views
Take your loved one onto a neon-lit paddle boat into San Diego Bay once the sun sets. You’ll be treated to a lovely experience that lets you see the San Diego skyline in all its glory. Simple, unique, and stress-free.
Gaslamp Quarters Ghosts & Crime Walking Tour
It wouldn’t be a tour list if I didn’t mention ghosts at some point. This highly-rated ghost tour crew will take you to San Diego’s most haunted spots, including the Davis-Horton House, Old City Hall, and more.
Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings
Like I mentioned up top, San Diego is the US’s capital in terms of the sheer number of breweries. Thanks to its booming micro-brewery culture, you can find delicious ales across the city.
I suggest you let these tour guides beer-ucate you (their words, not mine) about the best brews in North Park, San Diego’s beer mecca.
Experience Surfing Lessons on our Magic Beach
Consider this your sign to grab a surfboard and get into the water. This tour lets you invite up to five other friends for an expert surf lesson at Oceanside Harbor.
You’ll be in good hands regardless of your experience level, as guides carefully plan the experience based on favorable tides and conditions.
Winery Train Tour
Who doesn’t love drinking and scenic, coastal train rides? This winery tour takes you on the high road to explore local wines, urban wineries, and even a brewery.
You also get to wander into a few villages to learn more about the wine-making process. In terms of wine-centric tours, it’s very well-rounded, in my opinion.
Trail Rides from San Diego Trail Company
There aren’t too many cities that offer off-road horseback riding just outside of town. Take full advantage of this amazing opportunity. Not only do you get to ride horses while in the wild, but the company also takes the time to match each rider with a horse that suits their temperament and experience level.
