Top San Diego Nature Walks in 2026

Take a trip through American naval history when you go for a self-led tour of the USS Midway Museum in San Diego, with the benefit of prebooked admission tickets. This enormous ship, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, now offers a range of interactive exhibits, an audio tour, and numerous restored aircraft across its 4 acres (1.6 hectares). It’s an essential piece of the country's military history.

Meet some of the world's most exotic animals with your admission ticket to the renowned San Diego Zoo, one of California's top family-friendly attractions. More than 4,000 animals representing 800 species live in this state-of-the-art zoo, including some that are rarely seen at other zoos. Admire the animals and go in-depth during daily keeper talks. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the San Diego Zoo. Ticket must be redeemed on travel date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit.

Discover the fascinating history of San Diego’s Historic Gaslamp Quarter on a 90-minute guided walking tour through one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll hear engaging stories about the people, buildings, businesses, and events that helped shape downtown San Diego. Learn about early developer William Heath Davis and the beginnings of New Town, explore beautifully preserved Victorian-era architecture, and uncover colorful stories from the neighborhood’s past. Along the way, see notable landmarks including the Davis-Horton House, Horton Grand Hotel, historic theaters, Old City Hall, the Yuma Building, and more. Your guide will share historical context, interesting facts, and memorable local stories while allowing time for questions and photos. With a relaxed walking pace and a carefully planned route, this tour is ideal for guests who enjoy history, architecture, and discovering the stories behind the places they visit.

Take in the highlights of San Diego Bay during a sightseeing tour by amphibious vehicle. Travel on both land and water, starting on the streets of Seaport Village and rolling down Harbor Drive alongside San Diego Bay. Transition into the water after departing Seaport Village. Cruise past the SeaWorld and Vacation Isle, experiencing the best of maritime San Diego on this fun and informative tour.

Explore some of the top highlights of San Diego with your or or two day trolley pass (depending on option selected) for the city’s Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour. Choose your own adventure as you get on and off the trolley at any of the 11 included stops, covering famous sights including the Gaslamp Quarter, the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway and the Cruise Ship Terminal, Little Italy, and many more. This San Diego trolley tour also features live commentary from the on-board guide during your ride.

Make the most of San Diego's natural beauty by exploring it with a guide who knows the area well. Add a guided meditation to your hike to enhance your experience, or skip it if meditation isn't your thing. A small group size offers you a more zen nature walk without the crowds.

Step into a charming petting zoo and meet a delightful group of friendly farm animals! Spend time up close with gentle Kunekune pigs, playful Nigerian Dwarf goats, and sweet Babydoll and Friesian sheep. You’ll also get to see majestic Highland cows, who love a little extra attention. Along the way, enjoy cuddling soft bunnies and meeting a cheerful flock of fluffy Silkie and crested Polish chickens. This hands-on experience is perfect for families and animal lovers of all ages, offering a fun and memorable opportunity to interact with a variety of heritage and miniature breeds in a safe and welcoming setting. At the end of the tour, the farm store will be open for those who like to shop or would like to take home a souvenir from the experience.

Explore San Diego’s Downtown and Old Town sights in a fun and fast-paced way—on a self-drive GoCar tour. This sightseeing adventure takes the stress out of reading a map, as the car talks and shows you the way with its built-in GPS. Enjoy hearing stories as you explore the city’s most popular areas, including Old Town, Little Italy, Balboa Park, Downtown and the Gaslamp Quarter.

The city is a canvas! Come enjoy beautiful street art and graffiti in San Diego with this guided tour.

Go whale watching from San Diego aboard a replica of a historic sailing schooner that won the world’s first America’s Cup sailing competition in 1851. Throughout your cruise, your expert guide shares informative commentary about gray whales, dolphins, and other marine animals, along with details about the US Navy sites you pass as you head out on the Pacific Ocean.

Petco Park is known for being the home of the baseball team the San Diego Padres and this behind-the-scenes tour gives you access to areas of the park that you wouldn't be able to get if just visiting to watch a game. See exclusive areas such as the Press Box, the Private Luxury Suite, and the Major League Dugout, and learn about past players as your walk past the Hall of Fame areas.

Tijuana, Mexico is a short trip across the border from San Diego. The Mexican border town had at one point achieved notoriety as a town of ill-repute, but this reputation is only a small part of the history of this colorful, interesting city. Dip your toe into the fun and hospitality of this town with locals who are eager to share the true story of Tijuana with you.

Explore Tijuana, Mexico, without getting lost on this day trip from San Diego, a great choice for first-time visitors. Visit cultural attractions, sample authentic Mexican street food at a sidewalk taco stand, and do some shopping and sightseeing. Opt to walk or take public transportation and experience the city like a local. Your guide can suggest stops and adapt the itinerary to fit the needs of the group.

Embark on a captivating journey through the annals of San Diego's past, tracing its evolution from Spanish exploration to a bastion of military innovation. Begin in the Gaslamp Quarter, where echoes of Spanish explorers and the Mexican-American War resonate through the cobblestone streets. Wander through Horton Plaza Park, where the visionaries of yesteryears shaped downtown San Diego into the bustling metropolis it is today. Pause outside the Santa Fe Depot, a symbol of the city's pivotal role in the nation's railroad network, linking it to the rest of the country. Conclude your odyssey at the USS Midway Museum, a testament to San Diego's significance in world wars and modern military advancements. Here, amidst the decks of a historic aircraft carrier, reflect on the city's journey through time, from its humble beginnings to its present-day status as a cultural and military hub of the West Coast.

Experience the best of both worlds at A Simpler Time with your complete farm tour that combines an intimate alpaca encounter with your delightful petting zoo! Begin your visit with your charming petting zoo, where you'll interact with an array of friendly animals, including Kunekune pigs, Nigerian Dwarf goats, Baby Doll and Friesian sheep, Highland cows, bunnies, and your entertaining Silkie and Polish chickens. Then continue by meeting your gentle alpaca herd, learning about their luxurious fiber and care, and discovering the fascinating journey from fiber to fashion. This comprehensive experience offers the perfect blend of education and hands-on fun, making it an ideal outing for families, fiber enthusiasts, and anyone who loves spending time with animals in a relaxed, welcoming farm setting. - Engage with your gentle alpacas and learn about their fiber production - Explore a petting zoo filled with friendly animals - Ideal for families and animal lovers of all ages - Have fun!

Embark on an unforgettable adventure exploring the mesmerizing tide pools of California, starting right here at the iconic Cabrillo National Monument in Point Loma. Your journey begins with a warm welcome from your personal guide extraordinaire, who will be your expert companion throughout this marine exploration. Prepare to be amazed as you discover a kaleidoscope of marine life right at your fingertips. From delicate brittle stars to playful sea anemones, you'll have the unique opportunity to interact with a diverse array of sea creatures like never before. Your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the intricacies of this coastal ecosystem, enriching your experience with their expertise and passion for marine conservation. *Please note this tour is offered one hour before peak low tide. Tour times are subject to change on a daily basis, due to tide schedules and weather conditions.

Enjoy a professionally escorted historical walking tour of Balboa Park in San Diego, California. Relax as your Tour Guide Extraordinaire from Another Side Tours makes sure you see all of the most interesting and historic spots without skipping a thing. We take our guests to Balboa Park daily and we are the experts on this crown jewel in the heart of San Diego. Balboa Park is America’s largest urban cultural park, but it is so much more than that! Balboa Park is a national treasure and it is just a fascinating place with a rich history and it is here waiting to be explored by YOU! Besides open areas and natural vegetation, the park contains a variety of cultural attractions including the Spanish Village Art Center, an assortment of museums, theaters, numerous beautiful gardens, shops and restaurants as well as being the home to The World Famous San Diego Zoo. Balboa Park was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and we are sure that you will love it too.

Your Old Town Walking Tour is very much like taking a step back into history. To see San Diego as it was during the very beginning of the city. From the first Mission of Father Junipero Serra, to the expedition of Gaspar de Portola, and the history of our entire city. The backstories along with the back drop of Old Town sparks the imaginations of the guests and literally takes you back in time. Known as the birthplace of San Diego and all of California, Old Town is a cultural hotspot. With stunning views of Mission Bay from the top of Presidio Park, to the smells of fresh-cooking Mexican cuisine and the beautiful Spanish architecture below, the Old Town Tour abounds with the vibe and flair for which Spanish and Mexican cultures are known.

This easy hiking tour shows a different side of San Diego. The views are unforgettable. The freshness of nature instantly brings serenity into your experience as you hike and breathe in sage. While in the mountain we will take a moment to meditate with an experienced meditation teacher (optional). Your tour guide will provide multiple fun picture breaks so you can leave San Diego with memorable moments.

The renowned San Diego Zoo Safari Park presents more than 3,500 animals roaming in large enclosures that replicate their natural habitat. Go on a safari adventure unlike any other outside of Africa itself, with exhibits inspired by the African Serengeti and the Asian Savanna. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the Safari Park. Ticket must be redeemed on travel date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit. After 3+ years of construction, Elephant Valley is now officially open! Come immerse yourself in this incredible conservation habitat and meet a multi-generational herd of eight African savanna elephants.

Embark on a captivating 90-minute walking tour along San Diego's picturesque Embarcadero, where the city meets the sea. This immersive journey combines stunning waterfront views with rich historical insights, offering a perfect blend of leisure and exploration. Begin your journey when we meet you at Starbucks at the Hilton Bayfront, and set forth towards The Rady Shell. Revel in the modern architectural marvel of this open-air concert venue and enjoy views of the bay. Continue towards Seaport Village, immersing yourself in unique shops and eateries with stunning bayfront views. Discover the charm of this iconic waterfront marketplace. Marvel at the colossal USS Midway, a floating museum showcasing naval aviation history. Enjoy panoramic views from the flight deck. This tour will undoubtedly leave you with a profound appreciation for the dynamic blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines San Diego's iconic waterfront.