As the oldest town in California, San Diego has an enchanting natural beauty and a mild Mediterranean climate perfect for outdoor adventures. Truly San Diego is a town that has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a fantastic food tour or to hang out with the family for a day, San Diego has you covered. So are you ready for some California dreamin’? Use this guide to figure out which of San Diego’s activities is the right fit for you!
Where To Stay
While visiting San Diego during the holidays, you can’t do better on location, convenience, and design than Arrivls The Rockaway House and Makai. Both are located just steps from Mission Beach, making them the perfect home base for all of your adventures.
The Rockaway House
This Mission Beach duplex can be rented as individual units (Rockaway North with 1 bedroom/1 bathroom, and Rockaway South with 2 bedrooms/1 bathroom) or in combination to sleep up to 8 guests, making it perfect for larger families. While staying at The Rockaway House you’ll be just steps away from the Mission Beach boardwalk.
Rockaway South – a 1930s beach cottage – is full of charm and is perfect for your next beach getaway. Upstairs, Rockaway North is thoughtfully designed and inviting. Whichever space you choose you’ll love the bright interior and the coastal boho vibes that The Rockaway House offers. The Rockaway House is located on the ocean side of Mission Boulevard, just 4 houses from the sand!
Makai Mission Beach
Makai is Hawaiian word for “towards the sea,” and is a fantastic choice for your next trip to San Diego! You’ll love the 2nd-floor patio and ocean view from this beachy duplex home. With its laid-back charm, thoughtful amenities, and absolutely unbeatable location, you won’t regret staying at Makai. Makai North is a spacious one-bedroom, and Makai South is a two-bedroom. The home comfortably sleeps 8 if you rent the entire duplex, making this a great option for a trip. Makai offers garage parking and all of your beach essentials – towels, an umbrella, chairs, and sand toys. We look forward to hosting you soon at Makai!
Did you know that Makai and The Rockaway House are next-door neighbors? This makes them perfect for groups traveling with up to 16 guests. You can rent out both duplexes – perfect for multiple groups or families traveling together, as you’ll be close by but everyone still has their own space to relax and unwind at the end of the day.
For some amazing tips on what to check out, read 5 Neighborhoods To Explore In San Diego, 5 Can’t Miss San Diego Activities, and San Diego Neighborhood Guide: North Park.
Top 5 San Diego Activities For Every Traveler
For Foodies: Take A Tour With Taco Tour San Diego
Foodies will love the Taco Tour San Diego to experience the city like a local. You’ll tour coastal San Diego just like a local, with stops at three of San Diego’s most delicious taco locations.
You can also take a guided historical Lunch or Sunset Tour through beautiful coastal San Diego. Enjoy the stunning scenery in Barrio Logan, Point Loma, Ocean Beach, and Little Italy. All while indulging in the best tacos, craft beers, and libations that San Diego offers!
Taco Tour San Diego| 1177 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106| (858) 220-3573
For Sports Fans: Catch A San Diego Gulls Game
Sports fans will love to take in a San Diego Gulls game. The Gulls play their home games at the Pechanga Arena. As the Anaheim Ducks AHL affiliate, taking in a Gulls game is fun for the whole family. Have a fun date night, or take the kids to one of the many fun promo nights the gulls offer.
You can buy tickets in advance here.
San Diego Gulls| 3500 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110| (619) 224-4171
For Families: Visit The San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Who doesn’t love a safari? The world-famous San Diego Zoo Safari Park is the perfect activity for the whole family. There are several different wildlife safari adventures to choose from at the park.
Choose between the Sun Up Cheetah Safari, when animals are most active, or the Roar and Snore Safari, where you sleep in the park. These are only a few of the safaris that the park offers! For the animal lovers in your family, this is a once-in-a-lifetime way to get up close and personal with their favorite animals.
Check out the other Safari options and purchase tickets here.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park| 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027| (619) 231-1515
For History Buffs: Check Out The USS Midway Museum
Strolling along the waterfront, you’ll find one of the largest US military ships. The USS Midway is permanently berthed at Navy Pier and has been turned into its own museum.
A visit to the USS Midway Museum offers 60 exhibits and over 30 restored aircraft, among other things. Interestingly, more than 225,000 military service personnel have served on the ship. You can take a self-guided audio tour of the aircraft carrier to learn about it. Additionally, you can try a flight simulator on board for an additional fee; how cool is that?
It’s a good idea to purchase a Skip the Line: USS Midway Museum Admission Ticket to avoid waiting in line.
USS Midway Museum| 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA| (619) 544-9600
For Beach Lover: Spend A Day In The Sunshine On Mission Beach
Mission Beach truly epitomizes the sunny Southern California lifestyle. The beautiful soft white beach is the focal point here, and bonus: it’s just steps away from The Rockaway House and Makai Mission Beach!
Beach lovers can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and beach volleyball. Or the three-mile scenic boardwalk skirts the shore. Visit on a sunny day, to see locals cycling, rollerblading, skateboarding, and strolling along the boardwalk. You can also dine at one of the many beachside cafés or restaurants. Check out our Dining Guide For Mission Beach here.
One of the highlights of a visit to Mission Beach is Belmont Park. This East Coast-style seaside amusement park has a historic roller coaster, fantastic restaurants, and street performances. It’s a favorite attraction for kids too! So a visit to Mission Beach is perfect for the whole family.
For More On Mission Beach Check Out:
Free Activities For Young Kids Near Mission Beach
Mission Beach: Our Favorite Eats + Where To Get Them
The Best Way To Explore Mission Bay
The sunshine city of San Diego does have something for everyone, and no matter what you choose to do during your visit, it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. We hope you’ll join us at The Rockaway House or Makai Mission beach during your stay!
