This sun-and-surf region is known for some of the best weather and warmest water in the state. San Diego, the state’s second-largest city, is home to the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park, one of the world’s great urban parks. For family fun, play at SeaWorld San Diego and LEGOLAND California. Inland, discover surprising mountain towns like Julian, known for orchards and apple pie.
MAJOR TAKEAWAYS
Every October, more than 100 attractions, restaurants and hotels in San Diego offer free admission or deals as part of Kids Free San Diego.
The Gaslamp District, the heart of San Diego’s nightlife, is 16 square blocks of restaurants, lounges and live entertainment venues.
San Diego County is home to icons of the craft beer industry like Stone Brewing Company and Ballast Point Brewing Company, along with more than 85 other craft breweries.
Julian, a little mountain town in San Diego County, is an official California Historical Landmark with roots in gold mining.
Counties, Major Cities and Attractions
Counties
There is only one county in San Diego region of California:
San Diego County
Major Cities
Most of San Diego County is densely populated, with the city of San Diego’s population reaching nearly 1.5 million people.
Carlsbad
Chula Vista
Del Mar
Escondido
Oceanside
San Diego
Major Attractions
Relax at legendary retreats, experience arts and culture, enjoy world-class golf, check out top theme parks and attractions – all at the edge of 70 miles of sparkling coastline.
Balboa Park: The remarkable collection of museums and gardens is an oasis in the heart of San Diego known as the “Smithsonian of the West”
Mission Bay: Visitors can enjoy water sports in of all types in Mission Bay in addition to checking out Mission Beach’s unique surf shops, beach bars and three-mile oceanfront boardwalk
La Jolla: Nicknamed “the jewel” of San Diego, this beach destination boasts a dramatic coastline and incredible views all at the foot of steep Mt. Soledad
LEGOLAND California: Carlsbad is home to an incredible world created by 60 million LEGO plastic bricks, where visitors can enjoy rides, a water park, an aquarium and more
Oceanside Pier: At 1,942 fee, this is the longest wooden pier on the Pacific Ocean and is ideal for strolling, fishing or catching great sunset views
San Diego Zoo: In Balboa Park, this expansive zoo spreads across 100 acres and is home to more than 3,700 animals from 650 species
SeaWorld San Diego: Enjoy interactive animal experiences and exciting new additions such as the Ocean Explorer area at this park, which also serves as a home to injured or orphaned marine animals
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Encompassing 2,000 acres, this coast state park land is home to maritime chaparral, the rare Torrey pine and miles of unspoiled beaches