San Diego features miles of picturesque coastline and offers an unparalleled beach-hopping experience. From the iconic stretches of sans to hidden gems, each beach has its unique charm. Regardless of what you enjoy, San Diego’s beaches have something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best beaches and water sports activities in San Diego.
Renowned for its breathtaking views and pristine waters, La Jolla Cove is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. The crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by towering cliffs, providing a sense of seclusion. The clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, and the marine life, including colorful garibaldi fish, adds to the allure. Kayaking and paddle boarding are also popular activities here, allowing you to explore the sea caves and kelp forests.
For a lively beach scene, head to Pacific Beach, known for its bustling boardwalk, trendy shops, and vibrant nightlife. The beach offers a wide stretch of sand for sunbathing and beach volleyball. If you’re into water sports, Pacific Beach is an ideal spot for surfing and bodyboarding. Lessons are available for beginners, and rental shops provide all the necessary gear. It’s a fairly short distance from our San Diego vacation rentals 10-15 minutes from the beach, making this an excellent spot to start out.
Adjacent to Pacific Beach, Mission Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The iconic Belmont Park, with its historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, adds a nostalgic touch. Mission Beach is perfect for beach volleyball, beachcombing, and, of course, water sports. Try your hand at jet skiing, parasailing, or take a thrilling ride on a speedboat to experience the exhilaration of the Pacific. This beach is also just a few miles from our San Diego vacation rentals, allowing you to spend as long as you’d like here.
Famous for its shimmering golden sand and the iconic Hotel del Coronado, Coronado Beach offers a serene escape with stunning views of the San Diego skyline. The calm waters make it an excellent spot for paddle boarding and kayaking. Rent a paddleboard, cruise along the shoreline, and enjoy the idyllic surroundings.
For a more laid-back and local vibe, Windansea Beach in La Jolla is a hidden gem with rugged beauty. The surf breaks draw experienced surfers, and the tide pools offer opportunities for exploration. This beach is perfect for those seeking a tranquil atmosphere and a taste of the authentic surf culture.
Situated between San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, Silver Strand State Beach boasts a unique location with both bay and oceanfront access. This beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. The calm waters of the bay provide an excellent environment for beginners.
If you’re seeking a more relaxed and less crowded beach experience, Imperial Beach is the place to be. The long, wide shoreline is perfect for beach strolls and picnics. Water sports enthusiasts can try their hand at kite flying or take a surf lesson to catch the gentle waves.
Venture north to Oceanside Beach for a laid-back coastal experience. The expansive beach is known for its historic pier and vibrant local community. Surfing is a popular activity here, and the beach is also suitable for bodyboarding and paddle boarding. Enjoy the panoramic ocean views from the pier or try your luck at fishing. With this beach being north of our Mission Hills rentals, it is a fantastic way to explore another part of the city.
Before heading out on your beach-hopping adventure, consider checking local conditions, water sports rental availability, and any safety guidelines. San Diego’s diverse beaches ensure that you can tailor your coastal exploration to match your interests, whether you’re seeking thrilling water sports or a peaceful day in the sun.
If these beaches look interesting to you, San Diego is a fantastic place to stay. At Rental With A View, we have several vacation rentals, so we’re sure to have something to suit your needs. Be sure to check our availability and make your reservation now!
San Diego’s Mission Hills neighborhood is a beautiful place that is a must-visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors. With its scenic parks, hiking trails, and breathtaking views, it’s the perfect place to plan your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor looking for a place to stay, San Diego’s Mission Hills is a top vacation destination that is sure to exceed your expectations.
This large urban park is one of the most popular destinations in the city, and for good reason. With its stunning gardens, walking paths, and cultural institutions, there’s always something new to discover in Balboa Park. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or nature, Balboa Park has something for everyone. Additionally, the park is home to several scenic trails, such as the Cabrillo Bridge and the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, which offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills. There are plenty of activities, meaning you may want to spend more than one day exploring this incredible park. Our San Diego vacation rentals are just minutes from this park, making it an easy spot to get to spend a day or two.
Another great park in Mission Hills is Pioneer Park. This park is perfect for families, as it offers a playground, picnic areas, and a large open grassy area that is ideal for playing catch or having a picnic. Our San Diego vacation rentals offer ample space, meaning you can store everything you would need for an enjoyable day at this park. Pioneer Park is also home to several hiking trails, including the Pioneer Park Trail and the Pioneer Park Loop, which offer a great workout and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
For those who are looking for a more challenging hiking experience, the Cowles Mountain Trail is a must-visit. This strenuous hike takes you to the top of Cowles Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of San Diego and the surrounding area. The trail is well-maintained and offers a great workout, so be sure to bring plenty of water and a good pair of shoes. And at the end of the day, enjoy a night in one of our vacation rentals in Mission Hills.
If you’re looking to spend a more relaxing vacation exploring some of the best parks and trails in San Diego’s Mission Hills neighborhood, it makes sense to have a comfortable place to stay each night. Be sure to check our availability and make your reservation now!
San Diego’s Little Italy is not only known for its charming streets and delectable Italian cuisine but also for its delightful frozen treats. In this guide, we’ll uncover the top destinations for frozen indulgence in Little Italy.
When it comes to ice cream in Little Italy, Salt & Straw is a true gem located conveniently near our San Diego vacation rentals. This artisanal ice cream parlor has gained a devoted following for its inventive flavors and commitment to quality. Step into the cozy shop just minutes away and be greeted by a mouthwatering display of unique creations like Honey Lavender, Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons, and Chocolate Gooey Brownie. Salt & Straw’s dedication to sourcing local and sustainable ingredients ensures an exceptional ice cream experience that shouldn’t be missed during your stay.
If you’re craving an authentic taste of Italy, Gelato Paradiso is the place to be. This family-owned gelateria brings the rich traditions of Italian gelato-making to Little Italy, conveniently located minutes from our Mission Hills rentals. With a wide selection of classic flavors like Stracciatella, Pistachio, and Amarena Cherry, Gelato Paradiso transports your taste buds to the streets of Rome or Florence. The smooth texture and intense flavors make each scoop a delightful journey through Italy’s gelato culture.
Pappalecco offers a unique blend of gelato and artisanal coffee, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its charming outdoor patio and cozy atmosphere, Pappalecco invites you to savor your gelato while sipping a perfectly brewed espresso. Indulge in their rotating gelato flavors, crafted with care and precision. From classic options like Vanilla and Chocolate to inventive creations such as Tiramisu and Caramel Balsamic, Pappalecco is a must-visit for gelato enthusiasts staying near Little Italy.
Although not exclusively an ice cream parlor, Extraordinary Desserts deserves a spot on this list for its decadent frozen desserts, conveniently located a short distance from our Mission Hills Rentals. Known for its stunning and intricate pastry creations, this Little Italy gem also offers a selection of refreshing ice cream treats.
Be sure to take a look at Rental With A View for your vacation rental needs. We offer a number of luxury vacation rentals in San Diego’s Mission Hills neighborhood, so you’re sure to find something to suit your needs. Check our availability and make your reservation today!
San Diego is famous for its great weather year-round and its scenic beauty. This makes it excellent for outdoor activities. From hiking and biking to surfing and kayaking, San Diego offers a wide range of outdoor activities for all ages and skill levels. In this guide, we’ll explore the top five outdoor activities to do in San Diego.
San Diego features multiple scenic trails that are perfect for avid hikers. Many of these trails offer scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscapes. When you’re hiking in San Diego, it’s important to have the right gear such as comfortable shoes, water, and snacks in addition to whatever else you might need. Our San Diego vacation rentals will allow you to store everything you need to make hiking in San Diego a memorable experience.
San Diego is also an excellent destination for biking. There are several bike-friendly routes and scenic trails. One of the most popular routes is the Mission Bay Bike Path, which stretches for 12 miles and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. San Diego also has several bike rental shops and our Mission Hills rentals will allow you the space you need to have a memorable experience. Our San Diego vacation rentals allow you the space you need for all of your gear, allowing you to be more comfortable.
Surfing is a popular activity in San Diego, thanks to its consistent waves and warm waters. Some of the most popular surfing spots in San Diego include La Jolla Cove, Del Mar Beach, and Black’s Beach.
For those new to surfing, San Diego offers several surf schools and rental shops that provide equipment and lessons. Additionally, it’s important to follow the beach rules and regulations, as some beaches in San Diego have specific surfing areas and hours. Be sure to check out our San Diego vacation rentals 10-15 minutes from the beach, as they will provide comfortable lodging for you if you’re planning an active vacation.
Kayaking is another popular activity in San Diego, with several scenic routes and spots to explore. One of the most popular kayaking spots is the La Jolla Cove, which offers stunning views of the cliffs and the surrounding wildlife.
Other popular kayaking spots include Coronado Island and Mission Bay. Additionally, San Diego offers several rental shops and tour companies that provide kayaks and guided tours.
Rock climbing enthusiasts will also find several spots to explore in San Diego, thanks to its diverse terrain and rock formations. Some of the most popular spots for rock climbing include the Mission Gorge, El Cajon Mountain, and Mount Woodson.
For those new to rock climbing, San Diego offers several rock climbing schools and rental shops that provide equipment and lessons. Additionally, it’s important to follow the safety rules and regulations when rock climbing, as some areas may have specific climbing hours and requirements.
In conclusion, San Diego is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with several activities and spots to explore. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or a surfing enthusiast, San Diego offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in San Diego!
If you’re looking for a place to stay during your San Diego vacation, be sure to check out Rental With A View. We have several vacation rentals in San Diego, so you’re sure to find something that meets your needs. Check our availability and make your reservation now!
California is chocked full of romantic destinations, and San Diego, America’s Finest City, is no exception! But, with so many attractions and activities available at your fingertips, figuring out what to do first is the biggest challenge. That’s why Rental With a View is here to narrow down your options with date ideas in San Diego for every type of couple, from outdoor adventurers to foodies. Whether you want to set sail during a romantic dinner cruise, witness Broadway performances together, or enjoy all the free things to do in the city, there is something for everyone!
San Diego is known for having some of the most beautiful sunsets in the country, offering a romantic backdrop for your date night. Flagship Cruises provides a wealth of dining cruises around San Diego Bay, including champagne brunches and sunset cocktail cruises. If you want a more intimate experience, sign up for a private sunset cruise with Sail San Diego.
San Diego offers an astounding arts, culture, and music scene. Plan in advance to experience a Broadway production at Civic Theatre or Balboa Theatre. If music is more your style, check out a classical performance at San Diego Symphony or Music Box if you want to listen to big names in an intimate venue.
If you are traveling to San Diego on a budget, no worries; plenty of free activities are available for couples. Spend an afternoon strolling along our beautiful beaches, hike to Sunset Cliffs to witness a picturesque sunset, have a picnic at Balboa Park, or wander the streets of our diverse neighborhoods.
San Diego has an incredibly diverse dining scene, with endless restaurants offering mouthwatering cuisine in a romantic atmosphere. Some of the best romantic dining spots include Valentina Restaurant, Addison, The Marine Room, and Mister A’s.
Join one of the many San Diego tours and witness the city from a new perspective. SEAL Tours offers the best way to see the city from the land and sea while experiencing history and ecology. Indulge in a romantic Gondola Cruise through Coronado Cays or magical hot air balloon rides with California Dreamin’.
These are just a few date ideas in San Diego for your romantic getaway. Relax at the end of the day in your Rental With a View vacation rental. Our Modern Studio rental is perfect for couples on a budget, just five minutes from downtown’s best attractions. We recommend our Urban Oasis property if you want more space to spread out. Discover the perfect San Diego vacation rental for your getaway today!
With more than 100 colorful and unique neighborhoods, the most challenging part of your San Diego getaway is deciding where to explore first. We have put together a helpful San Diego Neighborhood Guide for First-Time Visitors to get you started, and today we will be focusing on one of the most lively neighborhoods on the list, Little Italy. This Italian neighborhood is best known for its food and drink scene, but there are endless things to do in Little Italy, San Diego. Whether you want to eat, drink, shop, or explore museums, Rental With A View offers vacation rentals just minutes from everything Little Italy has to offer!
Little Italy is a culinary hot spot in San Diego, offering award-winning chefs and eateries around every corner.
The Piazza della Famiglia serves as the central gathering point in Little Italy. Visit the Little Italy Food Hall for an introduction to the diverse dining scene. Try a dish from one of the six food stations, serving anything from pizza to gelato!
There are endless Little Italy restaurants to try during your getaway. If you are looking for a classic rustic Italian dining setting, we recommend Davanti Enoteca, Filippi’sFilippi’s Pizza Grotto, or Buon Appetito. We recommend Mona Lisa Italian Foods for delicious deli sandwiches if you are after something to take back to enjoy in your vacation rental.
The Little Italy Mercato Farmers’Farmers’ Market is a celebrated tradition occurring every Wednesday and Saturday year-round. This is the largest market in San Diego County, featuring six blocks of vendors. The marketplace vendors sell produce, flowers, eggs, meat, fish, baked goods, groceries, and handcrafted gifts.
Bring home a piece of Little Italy with unique artwork from one of the local galleries. Browse the one-of-a-kind artwork at Mee Shim Fine Art, 1805 Gallery, and Adelman Fine Art.
If you are interested in more things to do in Little Italy, we recommend visiting the local parks and museums:
Stay with us at Rental With A View and easily access the best things to do in Little Italy, San Diego. Our San Diego vacation rentals in Mission Hills put you just a few miles from the Little Italy neighborhood. Enjoy the privacy of a quiet neighborhood while still being close to major attractions and our beautiful beaches. We look forward to hosting you for your San Diego getaway!
At Rental With A View, we are proud to operate a luxury portfolio of San Diego vacation rentals in the best locations in town. Never lose sight of the city lights by dining at our favorite San Diego restaurants with a view during your getaway. With our endless California sunshine, dining al fresco is a year-round experience. Whether you are looking for fine dining spots or a casual atmosphere for drinks, there is a rooftop restaurant in San Diego for everyone!
Rustic Root is located in the Gaslamp Quarter overlooking vibrant and bustling Fifth Avenue. Their menu showcases American comfort food with a California twist that you can enjoy under the stars. Make sure to order one of their signature cocktails to sip on as you enjoy the views of the city below.
Cannonball features the largest oceanfront rooftop restaurant in San Diego! The rooftop will transport you to a pool-like setting overlooking the beautiful waters of Mission Beach. Join them every Tuesday and Thursday for live music on the rooftop and choose from their menu of innovative sushis.
Kettner Exchange offers one of the best San Diego restaurants with a view overlooking Little Italy. The restaurant features two levels of indoor-outdoor dining with a menu of innovative dishes. They even provide rooftop cabana rentals overlooking Little Italy’s streets and exclusive access to craft cocktails and unique menu creations.
If you are looking for fine dining with 180-degree views, then Mister A’s is a must-visit. Their menu is inspired by American, French, and Mediterranean influences. The outdoor deck offers upscale lounge seating and an expansive bar and cocktail menu.
The Nolen is a rooftop bar and lounge offering spectacular views of downtown San Diego. Take in the sights of San Diego Bay, Petco Park, and Coronado Bridge. Join them for craft cocktails, bar bites, and unforgettable views. You can get to The Nolen from the “secret” elevator entrance at the Courtyard Gaslamp.
Kairoa Brewing Co. brings the unique flavors of New Zealand to San Diego. The menu features American favorites with New Zealand comfort foods like sausage rolls and salmon sashimi. The rooftop patio overlooks University Heights and is designed with a modern farmhouse appeal.
Enjoy exceptional views of America’s Finest City at our San Diego restaurants with a view. Choose one of our Rental With A View vacation rentals to host your getaway and continue enjoying the city’s picturesque sights. Stay in our Hilltop Hacienda with panoramic views of Mission Hills, or experience 180-degree views of the San Diego Bay with our Bay View Home.
With a nickname like “one of America’s most creative cities,” it should be no surprise that San Diego is home to some of the best museums in the country. But, with more than 90 museums throughout the city, narrowing down the list of places to visit can be quite challenging. Luckily, we have museums to pique everyone’s interest, whether you are interested in fine art, natural history, science, wildlife, or local culture. Witness a historic aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum or visit America’s most haunted house in historic Old Town.
Regardless of your interests, Rental With a View puts you in the heart of the action with our collection of luxury vacation rentals. Read on to discover the best museums in San Diego that highlight the wonders of history, science, and art.
San Diego is often regarded as the birthplace of California, offering a rich and storied history. Immerse yourself in fascinating history and tales of our haunted past at these museums:
USS Midway Museum: This is the most visited museum in San Diego, welcoming over one million visitors annually. Explore over 10 acres of exhibits, including over 30 historic aircraft.
Museum of US: This Balboa Park museum highlights an interactive timeline of human history that connects us across cultures. The museum also offers tours of California Tower, a historical landmark offering 360 views of the city.
Whaley House Museum: Head to Old Town San Diego and visit America’s most haunted house!
San Diego is a city that reaches for the stars, offering several immersive museums that highlight our leaps in the science world. Unlock the wonders of science and innovation at the best museums in San Diego for curious minds:
San Diego Air and Space Museum: The Air & Space Museum highlights the history of flight and space travel with rare artifacts and exhibits.
Fleet Science Center: Discover the wonders of science and innovation with more than 100 interactive exhibits.
The New Children’s Museum: If you visit San Diego with kids, this museum is a must-visit. The exhibits use contemporary art to empower children to think, play, and create.
San Diego is the type of city where creativity and art thrive around every corner. Discover our impressive collection of art museums during your California getaway:
San Diego Museum of Art: Visit San Diego’s largest art museum located in the heart of Balboa Park. They have more than 20,000 works of art, including an impressive collection of Spanish, Italian, and South Asian paintings.
Mingei International Museum: Witness more than 20,000 folk art pieces from over 140 countries at this art museum.
Museum of Photographic Arts: This is only one of three museums in the country that is solely dedicated to photography. There are more than 9,000 images in the permanent collection from over 800 photographers.
Easily access the best museums in San Diego when you choose Rental With a View to host your California getaway. We are a leading boutique vacation rental company operating a portfolio of luxurious properties in the best locations in town. Browse our luxury San Diego vacation rentals for groups, and plan your vacation today!
When planning a family vacation, the biggest challenge is finding a destination that works for everyone in your group. Luckily, San Diego offers one of the best vacations for families in the country, offering a wealth of kid-friendly attractions. Whether you want to learn something new at a museum, spend time at the beach, see exotic animals, or explore the great outdoors, there is something for everyone in America’s finest city. Your San Diego family vacation is made easy when you choose Rental With a View to host your getaway. We offer luxury properties in the heart of the city, so your family can easily access the top attractions in San Diego!
The San Diego Zoo is one of the oldest and largest zoos in the country. This wildlife park spans over 100 acres and is home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Purchase your tickets for the Safari Park at the same time and get up close and personal with animals like giraffes and rhinos.
Balboa Park is the culture, nature, and science hub of San Diego. There are sixteen museums to visit here, including the kid-friendly Museum of Us, the Air & Space Museum, and the Fleet Science Center. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful gardens, ride the miniature train, and stop at one of the many local restaurants.
If you are interested in visiting a museum specifically catered to kids and learning, stop at the New Children’s Museum, just over a mile from Balboa Park!
Belmont Park offers a historic beachfront amusement park, perfect for your San Diego family vacation! Start the day with some exhilarating rides before checking out exciting attractions like laser tag, mini golf, rock walls, and go-karts.
You can also find one of the best amusement parks just a 40-minute drive from San Diego in Carlsbad. Legoland California offers over 60 rides, a fun waterpark, and an interactive aquarium.
Take your family to the largest aquatic park in the country that offers 4,500 acres of fun on water and land. Popular water activities include surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. There are also 14 miles of trails around Mission Bay, where you can take a leisurely hike or bike together.
If you are a family who loves the great outdoors, there are plenty of kid-friendly trails to explore during your getaway. Mission Trails Regional Park offers 40 miles of trails, and Torey Pines State Natural Reserve offers eight miles of trails that wind through rugged cliffs, rare pine trees, and salt marshes.
These are just a few top things to do during your San Diego family vacation. Rental With a View is an excellent choice for your family with our spacious vacation rentals and special offers. When you stay four nights with Rental With a View, you will receive a $50 gift card to use at the San Diego Zoo, Seaworld, or Legoland! We recommend our Urban Oasis property for smaller families and our spacious four-bedroom Casa Paradiso for large families. Whichever rental you choose, we look forward to hosting your family for a memorable vacation!
As the second-largest city in California, San Diego is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country, attracting over 30 million visitors yearly! Those of you who have never visited San Diego are probably overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions and things to do in the city. Luckily, Rental with a View is here to give you the inside scoop with our San Diego neighborhood guide, highlighting the must-see areas in the city for first-time travelers. Whether you are looking for a lively neighborhood with world-class museums or a neighborhood full of history, there is something for everyone in San Diego!
Mission Hills is a vibrant neighborhood in San Diego that offers one of the best places to stay in the city. Rental With A View offers luxury properties in Mission Hills, overlooking Downtown San Diego and the Bay. Staying in Mission Hills is within a ten-minute drive of all the major attractions, from Balboa Park to the Gaslamp Quarter.
Balboa Park is a must-see in San Diego, a dynamic neighborhood where culture, science, and nature collide. The 1200-acre park features 17 museums, over a dozen gardens, performing art venues, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
Gaslamp is located in the historic heart of downtown San Diego. The city’s old charm is around every corner, with Victorian homes and gas lamps lining the streets. This area is also the city’s dining, shopping, and entertainment hub. Watch the Padres play at Petco Park or explore a historic aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum.
If you are interested in San Diego’s history, we recommend visiting the oldest neighborhood in San Diego. Old Town features over 35 historic sites and museums, including the most haunted house in America. You can also find over 75 shops and 30 world-class restaurants here.
If you are a foodie visiting San Diego, then Little Italy is the San Diego neighborhood for you! Rich with Italian culture and cuisine, there are endless restaurants to choose from at the Little Italy Food Hall. Every Saturday, you can find one of the best San Diego farmers’ markets with the Little Italy Mercato market.
If you are looking for a welcoming and open-minded San Diego neighborhood, pay a visit to San Diego’s LGBTQ+ central hub, Hillcrest. Here you will find an array of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, coffee shops, and unique boutiques to explore.
Rental With a View offers the perfect properties in Mission Hills for groups visiting San Diego for the first time. Our Mission Hills vacation rentals provide the best of both worlds with the privacy of a residential neighborhood and proximity to major attractions. You can find many places mentioned in our San Diego neighborhood guide just a 10-15 minute walk away, such as Balboa Park and Little Italy. Discover our luxury vacation rentals in Mission Hills and find the ideal place for your group vacationing in San Diego.