The United States has plenty of popular and amazing travel destinations that stand out. If you're going to the great state of California, however, San Diego is the perfect city to visit. Known as the birthplace of California, you'll find that there's something for everyone to enjoy. From its deep military history to the miles of beautiful beaches, you're sure to have a great time. Let's take a closer look at some of the fun things to do while you're in San Diego. 

Visit the USS Midway Museum

Once serving as an aircraft carrier in both the Vietnam War and Desert Storm, the USS Midways is now a museum located in San Diego. If you're a history buff or simply want to learn more about US history, this is a tourist attraction you don't want to miss out on. As you take the tour you'll see more than 30 aircraft while also getting the opportunity to see what life was like on the aircraft carrier. Check out the sleeping quarters, the engine room, and the pilot's ready room. As if that's not enough, you can sit inside the cockpits, test simulators, and even watch flicks about events that took place aboard the aircraft. It really is a fun experience for travelers of all ages. 

Go Whale Watching

Do you enjoy outdoor excursions or ocean life? If so, you'll enjoy going on a whale watching tour in San Diego. Unlike other tours that use cruise boats, these tours are designed to provide customers with a more exhilarating experience. Climb aboard the 6-12 passenger RIB boat for an up-close and personal view of San Diego's ocean life. You'll have a close seat as you pass by some of the most breathtaking views and creatures including dolphins or humpback whale. It's quite an experience, so be sure to bring your waterproof cameras or smartphones so you can capture these moments on camera. 

Ride the Waves

Looking for an adventure trip? Love watersports? Or maybe you're just interested in trying something new and exciting? Well, if you happen to be traveling to San Diego, surfing is a popular activity to consider. The area has more than 70 miles of ocean coastlines and plenty of destinations for you to ride the waves. Don't worry about packing your own surfing gear either as there are plenty of rental shops you can choose from. There are also surf instructors available for those who have never tried this fun activity before. 

Check Out the San Diego Zoo

Rated as one of the top zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is home to more than 650 different animal species. From cageless exhibits to a moated lion enclosure, you'll find this historic zoo to be a thrilling experience from start to finish. You can grab a map and tour the zoo on your own or hop aboard a tour bus that will take you through every inch of the zoo while providing you with fun facts and details about its history and the animals that reside there. Catch a glimpse of gorillas, polar bears, and giant panda bears all residing in enclosures designed to match their natural habitats. 

Hit the Beach

You cannot visit a city like San Diego, California without checking out some of its most popular beaches. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach packed with fun activities like kayaking, swimming, fishing, or volleyball to keep the kids occupied or a low-key beach where you can lounge, enjoy the peace, and simply catch a tan, there are options available to you. From La Jolla Cove to Mission Beach, there are plenty of beaches you can explore while you're there. Just be sure you've packed your beach essentials including sunscreen, chairs, towels, blankets, and umbrellas. 


As you can see, there are a lot of fun and exciting things you can do while on vacation in San Diego, California. The best part is, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you like visiting museums, want to spend the better part of your vacation on the water, love shopping and dining out, or want to simply enjoy the outdoors and reconnect with nature, this amazing city has something that will suit your fancy.