San Diego is the perfect family getaway with golden sand beaches, amusement parks, museums, zoo, hiking trails, and so much more! Keep reading to discover 12 awesome things to do in San Diego with kids.
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12 of the Best Things to Do in San Diego with Kids
Table of Contents
- 1. Play at Waterfront Park
- 2. Ride the Coasters at Belmont Park
- 3. Explore Annie’s Canyon Trail
- 4. Spend the day at Campland on the Bay
- 5. See the Sea Lions at La Jolla Cove
- 6. Spend the day at Coronado Island
- 7. Tour the USS Midway
- 8. Visit the San Diego Zoo
- 9. Discover Balboa Park
- 10. Watch history come alive in Old Town San Diego
- 11. Visit SeaWorld
- 12. Spend the day at the beach
- Other family-friendly things to do in San Diego:
1. Play at Waterfront Park
If you’re looking for things to do in San Diego with kids, the Waterfront Park needs to be at the top of your list! This is one of the coolest city parks we have ever been to.
Waterfront Park is a downtown oasis with grassy fields and picnic tables, along with state-of-the-art playground equipment that will keep your kids active for hours.
The city also holds outdoor movies in the park during the summer months.
The water feature at first glimpse looks like it might be just for show, but it is indeed a large splash pool with interactive water fountains meant for playing and keeping kids cool in the summer heat.
The Waterfront Park is located downtown along the shoreline next to the Maritime Museum.
While you’re in the area be sure to check out this museum where you can tour their collection of historic ships, like the Star of India.
They also offer a variety of exhibits and activities, check their calendar for the latest events.
*Related post: for more things to do in downtown San Diego, check out our guide, 72 Hours in Downtown San Diego with Kids!
2. Ride the Coasters at Belmont Park
With so many amusement parks in California, Belmont Park is one of the best-kept secrets. It is especially great for younger kids since it is smaller, meaning less walking between rides.
Despite being smaller, there is definitely no shortage of things to do. Between the rides, attractions, midway games, and arcades, there is plenty to keep your kids entertained!
The crowds also tend to be smaller, especially on weekdays, so you will be spending less time in line and more time on rides.
And best of all, it is more budget-friendly. Admission is free, which is helpful for parents who are planning to just watch and not ride.
You can choose to purchase each ride or attraction separately, but I would recommend getting a combo pass.
This allows unlimited access to not only all of the rides but to the attractions as well. Attractions include the laser tag, laser maze, mini-golf, sky ropes, 7D theater, and the zip line.
You can purchase wristbands online for a discounted rate. Check Costco and Groupon for deals as well.
We spent about 5 hours in the park. The older ones were getting bored at that point, but the younger ones were begging to stay longer.
I would say we definitely got our money’s worth out of it!
There are plenty of food options ranging from fantastic beachfront restaurants to burger joints, hot dog stands, and a snack shack.
It is even one of the few places in California where you can grab a refreshing Dole Whip!
This iconic seaside amusement park is definitely a fun way to spend a day in San Diego with kids!
As an added bonus, Belmont Park sits right on the shores of Mission Beach so you can take a break and have a picnic on the beach, stroll the boardwalk, or play in the waves.
This is also a great spot to catch the nightly fireworks show from Sea World.
*Related posts: While you’re in California, be sure to check out our Family Friendly Los Angeles and Orange County guides!
3. Explore Annie’s Canyon Trail
I am making a bold statement here, but I am pretty confident that Annie’s Canyon Trail is the best hike for kids in the whole San Diego area! It is also our favorite stop on an Oceanside to San Diego Road Trip.
It is located a little further north in Solana Beach, but definitely worth the 25-minute drive!
To get to the slot canyon, you’re going to want to take the North Rios Avenue Trailhead .
The trail actually starts at the end of a cul de sac in a residential neighborhood. It is a very unassuming spot for a slot canyon and I wasn’t sure if we were at the right spot!
Find parking on the street, then head to the trail where you’ll follow an easy path along the San Elijo Ecological Lagoon.
After about 0.6 miles, you’ll come to the entrance of Annie’s Canyon Trail.
You’ll immediately enter towering sandstone walls that begin to narrow into a slot canyon.
The trail through the canyon is only 0.25 miles and is perfect for kids. There are rocks to scramble up and nooks and crannies to hide in. Our whole family loved it!
I am super claustrophobic and as you can tell, the trail is very narrow. I was worried about how I would do but honestly, it was totally fine for me.
It is such a short trail that I always knew I could get out quickly if panic set in. I hope that helps any of you that might be nervous about that!
The trail has a gradual incline but isn’t too challenging. At the end, you’ll come to a steel ladder leading to the top of the canyon where you can take in the sweeping panoramic views.
My kids loved it so much they were begging to circle back around and do it again!
4. Spend the day at Campland on the Bay
Campland on the Bay is an RV park and campground that is located right on the shores of Mission Bay.
In addition to the prime camping lots, there are also a variety of activities offered for both overnight guests and those planning to visit just for the day.
Watersport rentals are available at the Campland Marina where you can spend the morning on the water.
Rent a kayak, pedal boat, Wave Runners, or a motorized boat to explore the bay. Discover hidden coves and keep your eye out for sea lions sunning on the rocks!
After a few hours on the water, you’re sure to work up an appetite.
Head to the Campland Cantina, an open-air restaurant where you’ll find delicious food, generous portions, and breezy ocean views. I would recommend the Pescado Burrito or California Burrito!
After lunch, grab a scoop of cotton candy ice cream at the Ice Cream Parlor next door.
Then spend the afternoon enjoying organized camp activities, lawn games, the arcade, sand volleyball, basketball, or the skate park.
We love that there are so many options available that everyone in the family is sure to find something to keep them busy!
In the evening, rent beach cruisers from the marina and cruise along the paved bike trail contouring the bay. Soak in the beautiful sunset as the palm trees lining the path are silhouetted against the blush pink sky.
It really is the best way to end such a fun day!
5. See the Sea Lions at La Jolla Cove
For the best chance at spotting sea life, head to La Jolla Cove! This small cove is home to an abundance of sea lions and seals that love to sunbathe on the cliffs and rocky shores.
There is a parking lot at the top of the cove, but it fills up quickly. Street parking is available (with a 2-hour limit) along Prospect and Coast Blvd as well.
Once you park, walk along the cliffs until you reach a staircase leading down to the sandy cove.
Sea lions mostly hang out here, but there are seals as well.
You can tell them apart in a few different ways. The seal’s fur is gray while the sea lions are brown.
The sea lions are also much more vocal and can use their flippers to walk on land, whereas the seals wiggle and scoot on their bellies.
If you walk south along the shore for about 10 minutes you’ll come to the Children’s pool. Alternately, you can drive to the pool but parking is limited.
In 1931 a seawall was constructed to form a safe swimming area for kids, which was referred to as the Children’s Pool.
Over time, the pool filled with sand to form a beach that attracts mostly seals but also sea lions as well.
The area has since been designated as an underwater park and ecological reserve. The small cove is still a great place for swimming and snorkeling, just be sure to keep your distance from any marine mammals.
Keep in mind that the Children’s Pool is closed from December 15 to May 15 to protect the newly-born seal pups.
However, it is a treat to be able to view the adorable seal pups while standing on the sea wall. You may even witness a birth!
While you’re at La Jolla Cove, be sure to take advantage of the scenic Ellen Browning Scripps Park that lies on the bluffs adjacent to the cove. The park offers beautiful views over the water with plenty of grassy areas for a picnic.
Dr. Seuss had a home overlooking this park and it is rumored that the windblown trees were the inspiration for the truffula trees in The Lorax.
Whether that is true or not, it is still a spectacular and scenic spot. In fact, AAA Magazine claims that this is the most photographed location in all of San Diego.
On the south end of the park, you’ll find a small staircase leading down to Shell Beach. This small sandy beach has several tide pools that can be explored during low tide.
Your kids will also love taking a guided kayak tour to visit the La Jolla Sea Cave! Here is another kayak tour available if you want to compare prices.
6. Spend the day at Coronado Island
Coronado Beach was rated as one of the top 10 best beaches for families by Family Vacation Critic. Once you take a drive across the expansive Coronado bridge you’ll soon discover why.
With its relaxed vibe, charming historic homes, and white sandy beaches, you’re bound to fall in love at first sight.
As an added bonus for families, the entire island is smoke-free, so take a deep breath and relax!
There is plenty of sandy beaches to go around, even on busy days you can still manage to find an empty stretch of sand.
Coronado Island is also home to a Naval Air Station and the U. S. Navy SEALS center.
It’s common to see military airplanes landing and taking off, or to see the soldiers out for a run along the beach. My kids were so fascinated by this!
Top things to do on Coronado Island:
- Check out the famous Hotel del Coronado. It was built in 1888 and is listed as a National Historic Landmark. It is also rumored that this hotel was the inspiration for the Emerald City in Baum’s Wizard of Oz. If you’re hungry you can enjoy a delicious meal on the terrace, or grab an ice-cream cone at their MooTime Creamery. Be sure to pop in and check out the photographs and history exhibits downstairs. For a memorable experience, book a stay at Hotel del Coronado!
- Speaking of Baum, you can drive by the home that he rented while writing three books in the Wizard of Oz series. The address is 1101 Star Park Circle. Another cool fact about this home is that Alexandar Graham Bell installed the original electric wiring and it is still in use today!
- The Coronado Museum of History & Art is free to visit. Here you’ll find three first-edition Wizard of Oz books by Braum.
- Take a stroll through downtown and browse the cute boutiques and shops.
- Pick up some souvenirs at Ferry Landing Marketplace. With over 30 shops, restaurants, and galleries, you’re bound to find something you love.
- Visit Tidelands Park for a fun playground and beautiful views of the San Diego skyline and Coronado Bridge.
- Rent a bike and take advantage of the 15 miles of paved bike paths along the beach. Rentals are available at Hotel Del Coronado or Ferry Landing Marketplace. There is also a rental shop located downtown on Orange Avenue. You can also take a guided bike tour or a scooter tour where you can discover some hidden gems.
- Visit the tide pools at Coronado Central Beach during low tide and discover cool sea creatures.
- Spend an evening relaxing by the fire using the public fire pits located on the northern section of Coronado Beach.
- If you’re visiting during the winter months, Hotel del Coronado installs an ice rink right on the beach. There are not too many places where you can ice skate by the ocean!
- Consider staying at Glorietta Bay Inn, a charming historic boutique hotel.
- You may notice the sand dunes that lie on the shore just north of the Hotel Coronado. They are fun to play on, but from an aerial view on Google Maps you can see that they actually spell out the word “Coronado”. There is even a whale buried in the letter R!
- After a strong rainstorm and winds, the remains of the SS Monte Carlo shipwreck can be seen off the shore near the Hotel del Coronado. The ship even has a few large openings that create pools to swim in!
7. Tour the USS Midway
Climb aboard the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century and learn about its long and dramatic history.
This ship just missed serving in WWII by one week, but it played a critical role during the Cold War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm, and many other missions in between.
Purchase skip-the-line tickets in advance that include the audio guide.
The self-guided audio tour details what life at sea would have been like and shares some cool stories. The audio tour offers a kids tour and an adult tour.
There are 60 exhibits and 26 restored aircraft on the landing deck that your kids will love climbing on and exploring.
I love it when history comes alive for my kids. We all learned so much and they couldn’t stop talking about it!
If you’re planning to do several attractions in San Diego, consider getting the CityPass which includes admission to Sea World or Legoland, and three other attractions for one low price, such as the San Diego Zoo and USS Midway Museum.
8. Visit the San Diego Zoo
We’ve been to a lot of zoos, but the San Diego Zoo is something special. First of all, it is HUGE!
Sitting on over 100 acres with over 3,700 animals, it is one of the largest zoos in the world.
It is also one of the first zoos to steer away from cages and introduce the concept of natural habitat open-air exhibits.
If you’re a fan of cuddly Panda bears, then you’re in luck! The San Diego Zoo is one of the few zoos in the world to successfully breed the giant panda.
Tips for visiting the San Diego Zoo:
- You’ll definitely need to plan for a lot of walking, but they do offer a complimentary bus tour that will take you around about 75% of the park.
- There is also a Skyfari tram where you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the park. This will also connect you from the front of the zoo to the back by the polar bear exhibit.
- If you are visiting in October, be sure to take advantage of the Kids Free October where kids 11 and under are free all month long.
- Animals are most active in the morning and evening, especially in the summer.
- You are allowed to bring outside food and drinks into the park. You can also purchase a souvenir cup and get free or discounted refills throughout the park.
- I’m usually not a huge fan of souvenirs, but if you are looking for ideas we bought these little binoculars at the gift shop and the boys loved spotting all the different animals with them. It kept them actively engaged and they definitely got their money’s worth out of it!
- If you have time, it’s also worth purchasing a combo ticket to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as well!
If you’re visiting San Diego with kids, the San Diego Zoo definitely needs to be at the top of your list! I would also recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket in advance.
9. Discover Balboa Park
The San Diego Zoo is located at Balboa Park, a sprawling city park filled with a variety of things to do. As stated on their official website, Balboa Park is where “culture, science, and nature collide”.
The beautifully manicured 1,200-acre park is home to the botanic gardens and a 4.1-mile scenic trail. The trail starts at Sixth Avenue and Upas Street and continues along a paved path through the gardens, past the museums and fountain, and over the historic Cabrillo Bridge.
If you don’t have time to complete the whole trail, at least make time to explore the Zoro garden. This sunken 6-acre garden is located near the Fleet Science Center and is home to colorful native flowers and unique trees, as well as a variety of butterflies. My kids loved exploring this beautiful park, but don’t tell them it was once the home of a nudist colony!
Balboa Park features 16 museums. Our favorite is the Fleet Science Center. It is filled with so many fun and educational interactive exhibits, we could easily spend a whole day here.
Take a ride on the historic Balboa Park Carousel. This Herschell-Spillman carousel was built in New York in 1910. It was also temporarily housed in Los Angeles and Coronado before calling Balboa Park home in 1922. It has only had 3 operators and the most recent operator has had the job for the past 45 years.
Take a fun Segway Tour around Balboa Park, or a Hidden Gems Tour!
Take time to walk through the Spanish Village Art Center. Here you can admire a variety of artists’ work displayed in the 40 studios and galleries.
Stop by and see the Spreckels Organ. This organ was built in 1914 and is the largest outdoor pipe organ in the world. If you visit on a Sunday then you are in for a treat as renowned organist, Raul Prieto Ramirez performs a free show every Sunday afternoon.
There are several cafes, but the Panama 66 outdoor cafe located in the San Diego Museum of Art’s sculpture garden is something special. With a fresh seasonal menu, live music, and a beautiful setting that can’t be beat!
10. Watch history come alive in Old Town San Diego
Old Town San Diego is the birthplace of California. In 1769 with the construction of a mission and a fort, it became the first settlement in California.
Today, Old Town is a bustling historic district filled with charming shops and cafes, historical architecture, parks, cultural events, and museums.
Visit the Heritage County Park with old Victorian homes lining Heritage Park Row.
The homes have all been relocated to this street to preserve the historic architecture. Some even believe that these houses are haunted!
There are numerous historic sites worth a visit, such as the Seeley Stables. This is an old stagecoach stop and reconstructed barn that now serves as a free museum open to the public.
If you want to get a thrill and learn some history too, visit the Whaley House. This historic home is known as one of the most haunted places in America, according to the Travel Channel. It is now a museum that you can tour.
While you’re at it, make a stop at the El Campo Santo Cemetery just down the road. This graveyard has been around since 1850.
The Junipero Serra Museum is also a great spot to learn more about the history of the area. Admission is free, although donations are greatly appreciated.
My kids also enjoyed the free Mormon Battalion Museum. Along with learning more about the history of Mormons in the American/Mexican war, they also have hands-on activities for the kids such as panning for gold.
See our guide 6 Cool Things to Do in Old Town San Diego for more fun things to do
11. Visit SeaWorld
SeaWorld is one of the main tourist attractions in San Diego and is fun for all ages.
Discover the mysteries of the ocean with various aquariums and exhibits, entertaining shows, interactive encounters, and educational opportunities.
They also have a few amusement park rides that your older kids will especially love.
Tips for visiting Sea World San Diego
- Keep in mind that during October you can get a free child’s admission with each paid adult admission.
- Parking is discounted on weekdays. However, not all food options and shows are available during the week. The park also closes early on weekdays, but the crowds are smaller so you’ll still have time to do it all.
- Consider purchasing the Quick Queue pass for unlimited express entrances at Journey to Atlantis, Wild Arctic, Shipwreck Rapids, Bayside Sky Ride, and the Manta. You can also purchase the Quick Queue Premier where in addition to the express entrance, you’ll also receive reserved seating at most of the shows.
- Bring ponchos if you plan to sit in the splash zones during the shows. They also come in handy for Journey to Atlantis and Shipwreck Rapids.
- Food and beverages (besides water) are not allowed in the park. They do have picnic tables available near the entrance if you want to pack a lunch and leave it in the car.
- Sesame Street Bay of Play is the perfect toddler zone where your little ones can get some energy out. In the summer months, they have fountains to play in so it’s worth packing a swimsuit and towel if they want to cool off.
- Consider getting a City Pass for discounted admission tickets.
12. Spend the day at the beach
And last, but most definitely not least, enjoy one of the many beautiful golden sand beaches in San Diego!
Ocean Beach is a popular local beach and home to the West Coast’s longest concrete pier, jutting out nearly a half-mile into the ocean.
Your kids will love watching fishermen bringing in their daily catch and you’ll often spot pelicans, sea lions, and sometimes even dolphins.
It also makes for the perfect spot for a sunset stroll. If you’re hungry, head down the pier to the OB Pier Cafe for some fresh seafood. Or your kids will be happy to know there is a McDonald’s located adjacent to the beach as well.
At low tide, you can explore the tide pools under the pier. Then as the sun goes down, warm up around one of the many fire pits and roast s’mores.
Ocean Beach is also located right next to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a popular spot to catch an iconic California sunset.
You can also find tide pools, a cliff walk, and an open-ceiling cave at Sunset Cliffs. We have yet to visit the cave, but click the link for instructions for accessing the Sunset Cliffs Cave.
Best family beaches in San Diego
- Windandsea Beach: This beach is a hidden gem among locals. Although there isn’t a lot of sand, it is a great place for tidepooling. It is located south of La Jolla on the corner of Palomar and Neptune. There is usually plenty of parking, especially along Palomar. Once you park you’ll see a staircase down to the beach.
- La Jolla Shores Beach: This popular beach is great for kids with a nice grassy area for picnics along with the Kellogg Park playground. It’s also conveniently located close to Avenida de la Playa where you can grab some lunch or snacks. Fire pits are available for public use, but come early to claim one as they go quickly. As an added bonus, parking is free. Just north of the beach, you’ll find the highly photographed Scripps Pier. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you’ll also have the privilege of witnessing the largest gathering of leopard sharks in the world. They love hanging out in the warm shallow waters, especially near the Marine Room restaurant. They are not aggressive and don’t bite. It is safe to snorkel alongside them, but be respectful, calm and give them space.
- Mission Bay: Spend an afternoon kayaking with sea lions. Kayak or SUP rentals are available at Mission Bay Sports center by the Hyatt Regency. Rates are affordable at only $18/hr and you can paddle out to a dock where the sea lions love to sunbathe and swim. You can also rent jet skis for a fun day on the water!
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Other family-friendly things to do in San Diego:
- Kayak to the La Jolla caves: Take a guided kayak tour to these awesome sea caves.
- SD Adventures Boat Rental: I think the kids would have a blast cruising around the ocean in a speed boat or jet skis! I have found Groupon deals for $110/hr, so keep your eye out if you’re interested.
- Cabrillo National Monument and Lighthouse: This historic and scenic park commemorates the discovery of San Diego and has a museum, lighthouse, tide pools, and cliff walk. There is an entrance fee, but if you have a 4th grader be sure to take advantage of the free National Parks pass.
- Torrey Pines State Reserve: My sister-in-law lives in San Diego and this is one of her very favorite spots. There is a visitor center, hiking trails, Torrey Pines State Beach, and sculpted sand cliffs. The best place to see the sand cliffs (as well as the rarest pine tree in the nation) is from Broken Hill.
- San Diego Harbor Cruise: Take in the city views from the water for only $32. Cruise around the harbor with options for a sunset dinner cruise as well.
- Cat Cafe San Diego: When I told my husband I wanted to go here, he didn’t get it. What’s not to get about being able to play with cats while enjoying a warm beverage and pastry? I just know my kids would love this!
- Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruise: The coast of San Diego offers some of the best opportunities to spot whales or dolphins. Taking a whale-watching tour is something your kids will always remember! And at $45 it is affordable as well.
- South Bay Drive-in: Relive days gone by at the South Bay Drive-in movie theater. Pack some dinner and treats then catch a double feature from the comfort of your car. It is located near Imperial Beach, be sure to stop and grab some Stardust Donuts on your way!
- Explore downtown neighborhoods: The Gaslamp Quarter is a vibrant and fun historic district. Visit Little Italy for the best pasta in the city. Seaport Village is the best spot to go for seaside shopping, dining, and entertainment along with a historic carousel.
- Purchase a Go San Diego Pass for discounted admission to a variety of activities!
There really is so much to do in San Diego with kids! Hopefully, these ideas will help you as you plan a memorable vacation with your family!
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Great list of things to do in San Diego – we have visited twice but haven’t done so much! We need to return!!
I’m glad you’ve had a chance to visit! There really is so much to do there!
I wanted to let you know that you have a typo. It is the Zoro Garden, not Loro Garden. 😊
Thank you so much for catching that, I appreciate it!
Best days is Vacation days !
Informative article, just what I needed.|
Thanks for the great list can’t wait to tr some of these. Also the Cat cafe is the best! We try to go whenever we are in town. Cats are most active in the mornings.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a kind comment! I’m so glad you found it helpful and glad to hear you love the cat cafe, thanks for the tip!
What is the best month to visit?
Hi Amber! California has mild temperatures year-round, but winter is best for hiking and summer is best for the beaches. However, spring and fall are generally still warm enough for the beach but there are fewer crowds. In the month of October, San Diego offers a “Kids Free San Diego” where kids can stay, eat, and play for free at many hotels and attractions, so that’s a great time to visit with kids. I hope that helps!
Such a well written piece. Thank you for the precise and relevant information. Truly simple! 😀
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Please do not promote Sea World. Do your research and boycott this disgusting institution that tortures whales.