Most people probably visit San Diego to do lazy things. Sunbathe by the beach. See caged animals at the popular zoo. Maybe visit Legoland. I’m not judging—depending on your vacation values, all of those could be worthwhile pastimes.
But there’s another side of San Diego I hadn’t fully considered until my third, and most recent, visit. That is the more adventurous, smile-inducing side. And unlike the rest of Southern California, San Diego is noticeably friendlier and a little more affordable.
A World Favorite
Don’t get me wrong. I consider Los Angeles one of America’s greatest cities. Way better than New York, in fact. But Los Angeles is to San Diego what Miami is to Fort Lauderdale. By that I mean San Diego is less pretentious, more friendly and easier on your wallet. You’ll still pay the California weather tax here. But after visiting, it’s easy to see why Money Magazine named San Diego the best domestic travel destination. That goes for food and lodging as much as it does attractions.
What To Do
Because it’s one of the best snorkeling spots in mainland America, you really need to bring a snorkel kit and head to La Jolla Cove. At the rocky beach in front of my hotel I saw lobsters, garibaldi and several other unidentified specimens. And because La Jolla Shores is one of the best spots for beginner surfing, I highly recommend the non-bro-ish and welcoming nature of SurfDiva. Even if you don’t need a lesson, you can rent one of their surf or paddleboards and still rip it.
If you need a little extra hand-holding, consider the kayak and snorkeling tour from Everyday California. And if you want to take in the skyline with a lot of laughs and freedom—not to mention some moderate air—rent a Speed Boat Adventure in San Diego Bay. (Just make sure your boat idles well.)