52 Best Things to Do in San Diego with Kids: Fun Activities for All Ages

5. Aquatica San Diego Water Park (Seasonal)

Location: Chula VistaKids love this seasonal water park.

Our only water park features a wide range of attractions for any level of swimmer including wave pools, lazy river, water slides up to 78′, interactive water play areas, private cabana rentals and much more. Discounted Aquatica San Diego tickets are most often purchased through SeaWorld directly.

The park is open in summer and select fall weekends so check the park calendar before going. Note that the park’s last year will be 2020. After this, it will transition to Sesame Place which is scheduled to open in 2021.

8. Seaport Village

Location: Downtown San Diego (Free to Enter)A great place to walk along the water and shop in downtown.

Yes, it’s a touristy spot, but Seaport Village is a fun seaside entertainment area for local and visiting families.

We’re talking about a fudge store, an awesome kite store (fly a kite on the nearby grassy area on the bay), roaming entertainment, ocean views, and dining at over 50 restaurants and shops in all.

It’s an excellent spot for family photos and within walking distance of many hotels in downtown. The historic carousel is fun to ride for younger kids.

12. San Diego Model Railroad Museum

Location: Balboa Park

The San Diego Model Railroad Museum is North America’s largest model railroad museum (27,000 square feet) and a toy train enthusiast’s dream with its four enormous scale and model layouts. The detail on the trains and the scenery is staggering. Admire and tinker with toy trains here, too.

13. San Diego Air and Space Museum

Location: Balboa Park

Go to the San Diego Air and Space Museum to learn about the history of flight from early balloon ascents to space travel. Over 50 aircraft hang from the rafters, and the various galleries showcase the Wright brothers, the Golden Age of flight, World Wars I and II, the Jet Age in addition to women in flight.

14. Museum of Man

Location: Balboa Park

Kids can channel their inner archeologist at the Museum of Man. They can also dress up as a Pharaoh in addition to learning about excavating and wrapping mummies. The iconic California Tower is here but climbing it would only be suitable for older kids and a reservation is required.

15. San Diego Botanic Gardens

Location: Encinitas

If you’re looking for outdoor fun for kids in San Diego and garden inspiration, this is a great place. The San Diego Botanic Garden is home to 30 gorgeous gardens with themes ranging from fire safety to olive trees to plants native to the Canary Islands, in addition to the Hamilton Gardens filled with activities. Guests can join a tour ranging from bird watching to various walks catered toward specific age groups.

17. USS Midway Museum®

Location: Downtown

One of America’s longest-serving aircraft carriers is now a popular maritime museum home to 60 exhibits and 29 restored aircraft. Kids will love learning what life was like at sea on the USS Midway in addition to trying two flight simulators (height restrictions apply). Some of the USS Midway Museum docents lived on board the ship, and it’s one of my favorite places to recommend because there isn’t another museum like it.

See also: Tips for Visiting the USS Midway Museum

18. Maritime Museum of San Diego®

Location: Downtown

This San Diego museum preserves one of the largest collections of historic vessels in the country. Visitors may climb on board to explore the ships, some of which still occasionally sail (check the website for tours on the bay). Highlights include the Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship, and the Soviet-era B-39 submarine, one of the largest conventionally-powered submarines ever built.

Tip: It’s easy to combine a visit to the Maritime Museum of San Diego with the USS Midway Museum and Waterfront Park as they are neighbors on the Embarcadero. (Grab a taco at Carnitas Snack Shack here, too.)

19. The New Children’s Museum®

Location: Downtown

The goal of The New Children’s Museum is for children of all ages to experience the arts in ways that are meaningful to them. Their motto is, “think, play, create” and that’s exactly what kids do there through arts and crafts, hands-on exhibits and performing arts. Looking for things to do in San Diego with babies? This museum is free for babies under 12 months and is engaging for your littlest family members because they’ll love watching all the kids.

The activities in the museum are appropriate for toddlers up to teenagers. It’s one of the San Diego attractions for kids that will spark their love of learning early.

20. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

Location: Escondido

If you happen to be in the area, stop by the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum. It’s entirely dedicated to learning through play throughout 6000 square feet of indoor space and even more outside where there are chicken coops, worm farms and other investigative stations. The themes of water and energy conservation are present throughout.

21. Living Coast Discovery Center

Location: Chula Vista

Those interested in California’s coastal flora and fauna should plan a visit to The Living Coast Discovery Center, about 15 minutes south of downtown. It’s a popular location for school field trips (typically also a less busy spot than many of our other popular animal attractions) and you can add on a variety of experiences like bat ray feedings and reptile meet and greets to enhance your days. Take a look at their calendar of events as guests can participate in bird walks, composting classes, and much more family fun in San Diego.

22. Coronado Central Beach

Location: Coronado

This beach is in front of the Hotel del Coronado® though it extends quite a distance past the luxury hotel. The water is usually pretty calm here, with a wide flat sandy beach to chill out on. You can walk up to eat at The Del and even rent chairs and umbrellas from their Del Beach area even if you’re not an overnight guest.

Coronado Central Beach ranks highly on national travel publication lists including Travel + Leisure. The north end is dog-friendly and suitable for surfing when waves cooperate.

See also: Detailed Guide to Coronado Beaches

24. Kayak the Sea Caves

Location: La Jolla Shores Beach

Rent a double kayak, bring your own or join a tour. Kayaks launch easily from La Jolla Shores Beach for exploration of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park. From above, you can see orange Garibaldi fish and our friendly sea lions.

You’ll pass by our sea caves. All but one are only visible from the ocean. Some tours will take you through Clam’s Cave where the barks of sea lions are almost deafening (but funny) though this is not something you should try on your own. I recommend a sea cave tour with Everyday California.

Tip: Use code lajollamom and click the green checkmark for a 20% discount on tours, lessons, and rentals at Everyday California. This includes private surf lessons, kayaking tours, SUP rentals, and more. Like their retail offerings? Use code LJM20 for 20% off of clothes and accessories online.

25. Snorkel or Swim with Leopard Sharks (Summer)

Location: La Jolla Shores Beach

La Jolla Shores Beach is also home to the largest aggregation of leopard sharks in the world. They arrive starting in June, but numbers peak around August and September. You’ll see them even in knee-deep water but mostly while snorkeling (swim slowly). No, they don’t bite which is why it’s on this list of best things to do in San Diego with kids.

26. Del Mar Beaches

Location: Del Mar

From 15th street in Del Mar through 29th street is an area of beach in front of beautiful homes that is very popular especially during the summer (when parking is difficult). It’s walkable from some of the most popular restaurants in Del Mar as well as L’Auberge Del Mar Hotel and a few smaller inns.

Another stretch of Del Mar beach is Torrey Pines State Beach, near the famous state reserve. The state park system administers it so you’ll need to pay at a kiosk to park.

The most family-friendly strip of beach is located closest to Torrey Pines Road. Find bathrooms, showers, and lifeguards here as well as in addition to a fun little area where kids can play next to the lagoon. If you’re looking for baby activities in San Diego, Del Mar Beaches are a good choice.

27. Moonlight Beach

Location: Encinitas

Further north awaits Moonlight Beach. It’s a favorite North San Diego County hotel concierge recommendation because it has probably the most family-friendly amenities of beaches in the area. Between picnic tables, fire rings, lifeguards, restrooms, volleyball courts, a snack bar, and even equipment rentals, needs are very well taken care of here. Fun fact: The name Moonlight Beach stems from the fact that residents used to picnic here late at night during the 1900s.

28. Mission Bay Beaches

Location: Mission Bay

The largest human-made aquatic park in America is Mission Bay. In addition to vendors who offer a myriad of water sports from water skiing to SUP to aqua cycles, bay beaches are great for young families because there are no waves compared to the ocean beach but older kids enjoy the water sports.

The sand is soft, and water is as calm as can be (though it can be murky in spots). Access the Mission Bay beaches from a variety of places and resorts, but Sail Bay Beach in front of Fanuel Park in Pacific Beach is a favorite.

See also: 8 Best Mission Beach Hotels in San Diego

31. Cabrillo National Monument

Location: Point LomaA great place to photograph water views is Cabrillo National Monument.

San Diego’s only National Park is definitely one of the fun and educational family things to do in San Diego. Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo is thought to have discovered California in 1542 at Cabrillo National Monument.

In addition to panoramic views of downtown San Diego over the bay, other sights here include the iconic lighthouse, a visitor’s center where kids can earn a Junior Ranger stamp, lovely trail walks and fantastic tide pools (best viewing is November–March when low tides typically happen during the day).

32. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Location: La Jolla

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is home to the rare Torrey Pine tree, some of the best San Diego ocean views, and eight miles of hiking trails, many of which are suitable for kids. Take advantage of the free public guided walks for families and small groups that are on weekends and holidays to spot local flora and fauna. And, Torrey Pines State Beach is below the park so add on some fun in the sand before or after your visit.

34. Waterfront Park

Location: Downtown

Families love this big waterfront park (hence the name) with its interactive water fountains (yes, they can play in them) and playground equipment. The large grassy area is a great place for picnics and games, and they even show outdoor movies here in the summer.

The views over San Diego Bay are also spectacular. It is located across from the Maritime Museum of San Diego and next door to the Wyndham San Diego Bayfront.

35. Falconry Lessons

Location: La Jolla, Alpine, Ramona

The Torrey Pines Gliderport is also home to some cool falconry and owl experiences through Total Raptor eXperience where participants will enjoy the up-close interaction and learn to fly a raptor. All ages are welcome in the introductory class.

We enjoyed a falconry lesson with Sky Falconry at the Torrey Pines Gliderport a few years ago. They offer these lessons now only at their Alpine ranch. If you’re looking for things to do in San Diego with kids involving animal interaction, I would highly recommend them.

36. Electric Bike Tours

Location: La Jolla, Pacific Beach, or Downtown

One of the most fun things to do in San Diego with teens is an electric bike tour (must be 13 or older) that allows riders to pedal when they like. Tour La Jolla beaches like La Jolla Cove and scenic hilltops, downtown sights and more. Or, rent one of these cool bikes for a few hours to do it on your own. 

37. Queen Calafia®’s Magic Circle

Location: Escondido (Free to Enter)

A somewhat hidden gem in North San Diego County, Queen Califia’s Magic Circle is the only American sculpture garden by French artist Niki de Saint Phalle who is famous for colorful mosaics. This display includes nine large sculptures, a circular “snake wall” (400 feet long with varying heights), and a maze entryway in addition to some bench seating. Find it in Kit Carson Park.

38. The Stuart Collection at UC San Diego

Location: La Jolla

Another striking art installation is woven throughout the campus of UC San Diego. The Stuart Collection has 18 rather large pieces of public art ranging from an actual house hanging off the side of the Engineering Building (Fallen Star by Doh Ho Suh), steel trees, and the Sun God by Niki de Saint Phalle.

It makes a fun scavenger hunt for kids or something fun to look out for when touring the campus with a potential student.

39. San Elijo Lagoon

Location: Cardiff (Free to Enter)

The nearly 1000-acre San Elijo Lagoon is one of San Diego’s most diverse coastal wetlands. See if you can spot some of the over 1000 species of birds, fish, reptiles, and mammals that call this area home. Before visiting, check their website for special programming and to see if any hiking trails are closed. Hiking here can be mild and is one of the fun things to do in San Diego for kids outside.

40. Golf

Location: La Jolla, La Costa, Carlsbad

If your child has ever wanted to try golf or needs to polish his or her skills, San Diego is the perfect place for it. Find junior golf academies at Torrey Pines Golf Course, Omni La Costa, Aviara Golf Academy (near Park Hyatt Aviara and Four Seasons Resort and Residences), and elsewhere. All three are steps from popular San Diego family hotels.

See also: The Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Diego

41. Hotel Pool Day Pass

Location: Hotels across San Diego County

Families who feel like they need a change of scenery now have the option through ResortPass to book a day at one of our fantastic local hotel pools. Options include Hyatt Regency Mission Bay (water slides!), Loews Coronado Bay, Hilton San Diego Resort and Spa, Estancia La Jolla, and many more.

See also: The Best San Diego Hotel Pools

42. Skate Parks

Some of the world’s most famous skateboarders, including Tony Hawk, have called San Diego home. Needless to say, we have a variety of skate parks scattered across the county that cater to various levels and they are free to use. Try:

• Linda Vista Skate Park (the second-largest in California)
• Carlsbad Skate Park (good for beginners)
• Washington Street Skate Park (good for experts)

43. San Diego Missions

A very popular reason for a San Diego family vacation is to learn about California history, especially when kids who live in the state need to prepare for their 4th grade Mission project.

Mission San Diego de Alcala in Old Town was the first of the 21 California Missions and you can also visit Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside, the largest of the California Misions. Both are open to the public daily.

44. San Diego Seal Tours

Location: Embarcadero or Seaport Village (Downtown)Drive right from land to water on the bus boat.

Yes, even we have the famous bus-boats that start on land and head into the San Diego Bay. San Diego Seal Tours are 90-minute, fully-narrated tours on an amphibious vehicle that tour scenic downtown San Diego spots and then submerge into the bay for skyline views and seal sightings.

Tickets: Join a Seal Tour at the Embarcadero or Seaport Village.

45. Speed Boat Adventures®

Location: Harbor Island (Downtown)

Even if you’ve never driven a boat, you can drive these. Speed Boat Adventures boats are 13′ mini speed boats with quiet, eco-friendly motors that carry up to three people (small children sit in the middle). Boats have a two-way communicator so you can hear narration from the guide. It’s a fabulous way to sightsee from the San Diego Bay and they even do sunset tours.

Tip: The way to guarantee your date and time at time of booking is to book direct.

47. Winter Tide Pooling

Location: Various (Free to Explore After You Park)Cabrillo National Monument is a great place for tide pools.

Tide pooling season begins in November and spans through roughly March when tides are low during the day. See sea creatures galore including sea anemones, hermit crabs, octopus, sea stars, sea slugs and more live in our tide pools.

Birch Aquarium leads tide pool tours near Scripps Pier at La Jolla Shores. Other great locations include the Cabrillo National Monument, Shell Beach in La Jolla, Tourmaline Surfing Park in Pacific Beach, in front of the Hotel del Coronado and more.

See also: Top 8 Places to Go Tide Pooling in San Diego County

48. Whale Watching

Location: Cruises typically depart from Downtown San Diego

Whale watching in San Diego is viable for about nine months of the year. The types of whales seen depend on the season.

Roughly 20,000 gray whales make the 10,000-mile migration from Alaska to the warm waters of Mexico annually to give birth. Gray whales swim offshore mostly from mid-December to April.

Your chances of seeing them from land (Torrey Pines State Park and Cabrillo National Monument are two excellent spots) are better earlier in the season as they tend to swim a bit closer to shore when en route to Mexico.

Blue whales are among the largest creatures on earth and spotted between mid-June and September. A variety of local companies offer whale watching tours including some that depart from downtown, Mission Bay, and Oceanside in North San Diego County.

49. Butterfly Farms

Location: Encinitas

Butterfly Farms is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the survival of our native butterflies and pollinators. It’s open daily for public visits from April to November.

Docents are on-hand to educate guests about the research and conservation efforts that happen at Butterfly Farms and you’ll be able to walk through the 3000-square-foot Vivarium where butterflies fly free. Looking for butterfly-friendly plants? You can also buy them here.

50. Bayside Summer Nights Concerts

Location: Downtown

While you should check the San Diego Symphony calendar year-round, their outdoor summer concert series is one of the fantastic seasonal things to do in San Diego with kids. Whether you picnic on the lawn (plenty of food and drinks are for sale at the event) and let the kids run around (bring some glow sticks) or order a bottle of champagne to a reserved table, you’ll listen to fantastic music themed to the event. There is usually a Harry Potter themed concert in and others that are themed to popular movies and television shows.

51. Carlsbad Flower Fields®

Location: Carlsbad

Every spring, a 50-acre Carlsbad hillside turns into an almost rainbow of color as thousands of ranunculus flowers bloom against an ocean backdrop. It’s a tradition going over 60 years strong. The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is a family-friendly San Diego attraction open to the public for about 6-8 weeks, with hayrides and other special events.

52. Free Outdoor Summer Concerts

Location: All over San Diego

Free outdoor summer concerts pop up around town throughout the summer. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and listen to music under the stars roughly between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Some of the many calendars to check out include:

• Coronado Promenade Summer Concert Series
• Balboa Park Twilight in the Park
• Del Mar Summer Twilight Concerts
• TGIF Concerts in the Park (Carlsbad)