Top 10 Things to See and Do In and Around San Diego, San Diego, California

San Diego is a hidden gem in plain sight. I was around 10 years old the last time I visited, so my knowledge was limited to the zoo and whale watching at best. I have fond memories of these activities as a young traveler but had no idea of the wealth the city has to offer. After returning as an adult, three things in particular stood out to me as to why San Diego is a great destination to visit – 1) the proximity and ease of getting to and from the airport, 2) near-perfect weather with highs in the 70s and lows in the 60s YEAR-ROUND and 3) the sheer volume and variety of things to see and do in the city and surrounding area. And while this is most certainly not an exhaustive list, here are some of my top 10 favorites from my most recent trip. If you have any others to add to the list please comment below, I plan on going back again soon.

You can’t miss the impressive bridge that sweeps over the water to connect Coronado Island with Downtown, and whether you arrive by car or ferry you’re definitely in for a treat. This adorable island community with its charming turn-of-the-century houses and yards that overflow with brightly colored flowers, succulents and other plants is ripe for exploring on foot or by renting a bike. Visit the Coronado Ferry Landing, which offers a variety of shopping and dining options as well as great waterfront views of the city skyline. Another recommended spot for a casual lunch is the European-style café Tartine, serving delicious grilled panini sandwiches, salads and bakery treats. The jewel of the island is the historic Hotel del Coronado. Built in 1888, this beachfront resort oozes with retro glamour and served as a location for the 1958 movie Some Like it Hot starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon. The iconic red and white structure also anchors boardwalk along one of Coronado Island’s best beaches – Central Beach, a beautiful soft sand beach that makes for the perfect place to soak up the sun. coronadovisitorcenter.com ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).