Did you know that San Diego is known as the birthplace of California? That's right! This coastal city was the first site visited by Europeans on what is now the West Coast of the United States. But historical trivia aside, San Diego is much more than an entry in a history book; it's a sunny, vibrant place that's teeming with activities for every type of traveler.
Famed for its stunning beaches, lush parks, and pleasant, year-round climate, San Diego beckons sun-seekers and surfers alike. But it's not just about outdoor living here. The city is a hub for culture, with its array of museums, galleries, theaters, and an internationally recognized zoo. Plus, if you're a food lover, you're in for a treat. San Diego's culinary scene is a paradise for foodies, offering everything from high-end dining to delightful food trucks.
Today, we're taking you through everything you need to know about San Diego. From its perfect weather and intriguing historical sites to its thrilling attractions and delectable food offerings, we've got you covered. Get ready to explore the wonders of San Diego! With cruise line volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 80% versus the brochure price! Book your San Diego cruise today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted cruise headquarters.
Sail Date | Cruise Line | Ship | Destination | Departs | Length | Price | You Save | Discounts | |
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50 reviews ![]() | Jul 03, 2025 | Oceania | Insignia | San Diego | New York (Manhattan) | 20 Nights | Cabo San Lucas | Cartagena | Corinto | Ensenada | George Town | Miami | New York | Port Canaveral | Puerto Quetzal | Puntarenas | San Diego | Zihuatanejo (ixtapa) | -56% From: $11,998 $5,299You Save: $6,699 Prepaid Gratuities | Prepaid Gratuities |
San Diego Travel Guide
San Diego Cruises Highlights
- Balboa Park: A sprawling 1,200-acre site, Balboa Park isn't just a park; it's a place packed with gardens, museums, and theaters. The San Diego Zoo, located here, is home to over 3,500 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies. You could spend an entire day (or more) exploring the Spanish-Renaissance-inspired architecture, visiting the San Diego Museum of Art, or simply strolling through the lush gardens. It's a cultural feast!
- USS Midway Museum: For history enthusiasts or just the curious, the USS Midway Museum is a must. This maritime museum located downtown offers a glimpse into naval combat history, where you can explore a real aircraft carrier, the USS Midway. It features more than 30 restored aircraft, various exhibits, and flight simulators. It's an immersive experience offering valuable insights into American military history.
- La Jolla Cove: If you're drawn to the sea, La Jolla Cove is a picturesque cove and beach surrounded by cliffs, offering stunning views. Ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, the crystal-clear waters are rich with marine life, and the adjacent park is perfect for picnicking or sunset watching. Remember, it's also a protected area, which means an unspoiled natural beauty.
- Old Town San Diego: Experience the city's Mexican and early American history in Old Town San Diego. This area is perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll through historic buildings, with free museums, live performances, and plenty of shops and restaurants serving up authentic Mexican cuisine. It's like stepping into a time machine with the benefit of modern-day amenities.
- Coronado Beach: No visit to San Diego is complete without a trip to Coronado Beach. Known for its expansive sandy shores and gentle waves, it's perfect for families, surfers, and sunbathers alike. Don't miss the historic Hotel del Coronado at the beach's southern end, a National Historic Landmark from the late 1800s.
- Gaslamp Quarter: Speaking of stepping back in time, the Gaslamp Quarter, with its restored late-19th- and early-20th-century Victorian buildings, is a hub for nightlife, trendy shops, and upscale restaurants. This area is not just about the past; it's brimming with contemporary energy, often hosting large city events and outdoor concerts.
San Diego Cruises Travel Tips
- Get out and explore places besides the beaches. Be sure to block at least a little time at the beach but recognize that San Diego is a lot more than a place to swim and surf!
- If you have time, put together a quick picnic and watch the sunset from one of the city's cliffside places.
- Make use of San Diego's public transportation, specifically the trolley. A lot of locals prefer to drive, but the trolley is perfect during peak traffic hours.
- Try not to visit during Comic-Con because this is when San Diego is at its busiest. If you find that you are coming during that time due to when your cruise leaves, just be sure to book everything early!
- Check local calendars to see if there are any local farmer's markets during your trip. The farmer's market culture is alive and well in San Diego, and it's a great way to try local foods while supporting locals.
- If a place on your travel list requires reservations, be sure to make them well in advance. San Diego is a famous city and is known to get booked quickly!
San Diego Cruises Things To Do
- Explore Balboa Park
Balboa Park is a breathtaking garden and park area filled with museums, theaters, gardens, and walking paths. It covers 1,200 acres in the middle of the city and is located nearby the San Diego Zoo. This is one free attraction that you won't want to miss. The park itself dates back to the late 19th century because of Kate Sessions, who donated many of the plants that are still in Balboa Park today. Before long, it started to pick up popularity and turned into an entertaining area in the city to relax and hang out. The very first museum joined the park in 1874; it was the San Diego Natural History Museum.
You Should Know
There is a free tram that will bring you from the park's three parking lots to the best parts of Balboa Park. Inside the park, amenities include free WiFi, restrooms, and ATMs. - See the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo first opened in 1916 and is located inside Balboa Park. There are over 3,700 different animals and 650 various species inside. Inside the San Diego Zoo, there is a multitude of attractions. Some of the best things to do include the guided bus tour, the kangaroo bus, the botanical tours, and the animal encounters. Be sure to take a ride on the Skyfari Aerial Tram for a real treat! You'll be able to see the whole zoo from high up above.
You Should Know
The San Diego Zoo is open every day, no matter the time of year. Yes, this includes holidays! During the week, peak hours are around lunchtime, while on the weekend, peak hours are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Visit La Jolla
La Jolla is a gorgeous coastal area that is most well-known for its stunning views of the ocean. The area dates back to 1850 when California officially became a state. It's always been a part of San Diego but has a bit of its own culture. Some of the top things to do in La Jolla include relaxing at the bach and going on waterfront walks. One such scenic trail is the Camino De La Costa. Be sure to stop by La Jolla Cove and Casa Beach (the Children's Pool)!
Best Time To Visit
If you plan on visiting Casa Beach, you'll want to come from mid-May to mid-December. La Jolla Cove is opened all the time while Casa Beach is not. - Go on some rides at Belmont Park
Belmont Park is a fun theme park right in San Diego's Mission Bay area. It opened back in 1925 on the Fourth of July by founder John D. Spreckels. It was initially called Mission Beach Amusement Center but soon became known as Belmont Park. There are tons of fun rides and other attractions at Belmont Park. Some of the rides include the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, the Beach Blaster, and the Liberty Carousel. There are rides for all ages, so if you come with young children, they will have just as much fun as you.
You Should Know
The park has later hours on the weekends, but visiting during the weekday, you'll encounter fewer people. It's free to enter the park, and there is free parking nearby. You just pay per ride. - Walk around San Diego Old Town
San Diego Old Town covers 230 acres of the city and is the more historic area that is truly worth visiting. People have been living in this area for more than 9,0000 years, and many of the houses here date back at least to the 18th century. Some of the top historical sites to visit in San Diego Old Town include Colorado House, Casa de Lopez, Casa de Estudillo, and the Whaley House. Be sure to also stop by some museums such as the Seeley Stable Museum and the San Diego Sherrif's Museum if you have time.
You Should Know
You'll want to plan at least 4 to 5 hours to explore San Diego Old Town. Don't rush through it because it's genuinely one of the best areas of the city. - See a game at Petco Park
Petco Park is the Major League Baseball stadium in San Diego's downtown area. It holds just over 42,000 fans and opened back in April 2004. It mainly serves as the home of the San Diego Padres but has also been used for other community events, including concerts. Be sure to check online before your trip to see if any events are being held at Petco Park over the few days you'll be in San Diego. If there is, you'll want to book tickets in advance to make sure that you can attend!
You Should Know
Make use of game ticket apps to see if you can find more affordable ticket prices. - Explore Little Italy
Little Italy is one of San Diego's best neighborhoods that you won't want to miss. The area is perfect for an evening out, and it's incredibly walkable. It consists of fun pubs, restaurants, boutiques, and even Farmer's Markets on the weekends. This neighborhood dates back to the 1920s. For a long time, it served mostly as a residential community, but more and more businesses started to open up in the area, which helped Little Italy to thrive and become the place we know it as today. Most of the companies and restaurants are family-run by locals.
You Should Know
Be sure to wear good walking shoes because using your feet is the best way to explore this area. Little Italy comes alive at night when it's at its busiest. - Relax at Coronado Beach
Coronado Beach is a 1.75-mile of coastal sand and water known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Southern California. The beach is entirely free to visit and has a free-to-use parking lot. The beach is the perfect place to go swimming and relaxing for an afternoon. One of the best times to visit is at night when you can see the sunset over the water. There are also lots of spots to have a campfire along the beach.
You Should Know
Coronado Beach can get quite busy, but you can typically always find at least a little stretch of it just for yourself because of how long it is. - Go whale watching
One of the most popular water attractions in San Diego is whale watching. These tours often start around $15 depending on the company, which makes it a genuinely affordable thing to do in San Diego. Each tour for whale watching lasts a different time, but you can expect that it will last at least a half-hour. Countless tour companies run whale watching tours, but some of the most well-known include San Diego Whale Watch and Gone Whale Watching.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to go on a San Diego whale watching tour is between mid-December to April. - Visit the San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art is a popular art museum that focuses on fine arts. It opened in 1926 and is located inside Balboa Park. The main focus of the park is Spanish art. There are lots of fun events held at the museum throughout the year, so check their calendar before you go. Often, many events are geared specifically towards children, but there are also fun events like Culture & Cocktails and Art After Hours.
You Should Know
You'll want to block off at least three hours to enjoy the museum thoroughly. Be sure also to check out Balboa Park while you're in the area.
San Diego Cruise Packages
San Diego, in its rich diversity, offers a unique experience for every visitor. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or someone who enjoys soaking in cultural festivities, this city has something special in store for you. The blend of historical landmarks with natural beauty and modern entertainment creates a travel itinerary like no other. So, why wait? Dive into the San Diego experience, and you're sure to collect a treasure trove of memories!
- Exploring San Diego
San Diego is a gem of Southern California and sits in the lower corner of the United States, a stone's throw away from the Mexican border. This Pacific coast city, known for its ideal climate and inviting beaches, boasts a location that offers more than just beautiful waterfront views.
Nestled along the coast, San Diego's geography is a big part of its charm. It's not all flat, sandy beaches; the city is marked by a series of hills, canyons, and valleys, which add a welcome contrast to the landscape. The nearby Cuyamaca mountains to the east offer a change of scene with rugged peaks, while the vast Anza-Borrego Desert spreads a sea of tranquility just beyond.
Water plays a significant role in San Diego's unique appeal. The city is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west, providing vast, panoramic seascapes. The San Diego River runs east to west, dividing the city and culminating at the famous Dog Beach. Moreover, the presence of Mission Bay, a saltwater lagoon, offers a number of water-based activities like sailing, kite surfing, and kayaking.
The coastal proximity means beaches are, without a doubt, among the city's main attractions. From the family-friendly Coronado Beach to the surfers' paradise at Pacific Beach, there's a spot for every beachgoer. The cliffs of Torrey Pines State Reserve offer breathtaking views and a break from the city hustle, with hiking trails that appeal to nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.
But San Diego isn't just about natural landscapes and water sports. The city's geographical location has made it a cultural meeting point. The close proximity to Mexico has infused a rich cultural blend that's evident in local neighborhoods, festivals, and culinary delights.
San Diego's diverse geography enhances its leisure offerings, catering to a variety of preferences, whether you're a fan of relaxing beachfront picnics, energetic surf sessions, serene desert visits, or engaging cultural experiences. This city proves that it's not just a place on the map but a destination worth every moment spent exploring. - The Best Time to Cruise From San Diego
Cruising from San Diego offers a delightful experience throughout the year, with the city's renowned near-perfect weather ensuring a pleasant journey regardless of the season. Each period brings its own unique appeal to cruising, making San Diego a fantastic cruising destination.
Winter (December to February): Cruising from San Diego in winter presents milder conditions compared to most American cities, with temperatures usually ranging between 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite being the wettest season with sporadic light rain, winter is the off-season for tourists, offering a more tranquil cruising experience with fewer crowds and lower prices for onboard amenities. Cruising during winter allows passengers to enjoy San Diego's beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal time for a relaxed and serene journey.
Spring (March to May): Spring cruising from San Diego is characterized by moderate temperatures, ranging from the mid-60s to the low 70s, and decreasing rainfall. The city blooms beautifully, with attractions like the Carlsbad Flower Fields enhancing the scenic cruising experience. While spring breaks can increase tourist activity, cruising during this season is generally more relaxed, avoiding the dense summer crowds and allowing for a more comfortable cruising journey.
Summer (June to August): Cruising from San Diego in summer means enjoying plenty of sunshine and warmer temperatures, typically between the high 60s and high 70s. Morning fog, known as "June Gloom," often gives way to clear afternoons, perfect for cruising along the coast. Summer is the peak season for cruising, with various outdoor concerts and beach activities adding to the vibrant atmosphere. When cruising during this busy season, it's advisable to plan and book excursions in advance.
Fall (September to November): Fall is an excellent time for cruising from San Diego, offering pleasant weather with temperatures from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. The summer crowds start to disperse, providing a more relaxed cruising atmosphere. The ocean remains warm enough for water-based activities, and events like the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival enrich the cruising experience.
For the best cruising experience, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are ideal, offering a balance of good weather and fewer tourists. Cruising during these periods provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy San Diego's attractions and natural beauty with a more comfortable and enjoyable experience on board. - Journey through Time: San Diego's History
San Diego, though widely recognized for its sunny beaches and laid-back vibe today, carries a rich past that shaped it into the vibrant city it is. Understanding San Diego's roots and pivotal moments in its history allows us to appreciate its unique blend of cultures and traditions.
San Diego's story begins in 1542 when Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, a Portuguese explorer, landed on its shores, marking it as the first European settlement in what would become California. However, it wasn't until 1769 that Mission San Diego de Alcalá was established by Father Junipero Serra, which served as a Spanish mission and a fort, laying the foundational stone for the city we know today.
The city has seen several flags hoisted on its land. After nearly a century under Spanish rule, it passed into Mexican hands for a period following Mexico's independence in 1821. The Mexican-American War in the 1840s was a turning point, as the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 ceded California to the United States. The Gold Rush brought a diverse influx of fortune seekers and, with them, an expansion of the San Diego area.
Several landmarks still reflect San Diego's extensive history. Old Town San Diego, for instance, showcases the city's Mexican and early American heritage with historical buildings, including California's first schoolhouse and the Whaley House, said to be haunted. Then there's the Cabrillo National Monument, honoring the first European explorer who set foot in California, offering insights into the naval history of the area.
The imprints of San Diego's past aren't just conserved relics; they actively shape the city's present atmosphere. The diverse cultural influences are visible in its architectural styles, the multiple festivals celebrated throughout the year, and even in the culinary scene, which features a fusion of American, Mexican, and Asian cuisines. Neighborhoods like Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter, known for its Victorian-era buildings turned into trendy spots, also reflect the city's historical journey.
San Diego isn't just a postcard-perfect vacation spot; it's a living narrative of centuries of transformative history. The remnants of its past, from the Spanish missions to its Mexican and American periods, aren't just footnotes but are active, contributing factors to its modern identity as a cultural melting pot. - The Local San Diego Food Scene
Ah, the flavors of San Diego, a city that surprises not only with its scenic beauty but also with its vibrant and diverse food scene. If you're a food lover, San Diego is like a playground, offering everything from tantalizing street food to high-end dining experiences. Being a coastal city, San Diego excels in seafood, with traditional dishes such as fish tacos made from freshly caught fish taking a spot in the limelight. These local delights, often topped with cabbage, pico de gallo, and a creamy sauce, can be found in popular spots like Oscar's Mexican Seafood. But there's more to the city than seafood; its proximity to Mexico has gifted it a cuisine rich with Mexican influences, best exhibited through indulgences like Carne Asada Fries.
For those keen on exploring these culinary treasures, areas like Little Italy are your go-to, boasting establishments such as Filippi's Pizza Grotto, known for their heartwarming Italian fare. Meanwhile, Liberty Public Market offers a smorgasbord of options, from artisanal bites and local produce to craft beers, making it a one-stop shop for all food enthusiasts. What's more, the city hosts numerous food festivals, with the San Diego Bay Wine & Food Festival standing out for its international array of wines, spirits, and gourmet offerings. Not to be missed is San Diego Restaurant Week, an annual event where restaurants across the city offer specially priced menus, perfect for those looking to dine out without splurging.
Adding to this mix is San Diego's embracement of contemporary food trends. Health-conscious dining has gained momentum, with establishments like True Food Kitchen serving dishes that don't compromise flavor for nutrition. The city is also seeing a surge in fusion restaurants, creating innovative meals that blend culinary traditions from across the globe. In essence, San Diego's food scene is an ever-evolving landscape, offering an eclectic mix of traditional flavors and innovative dining experiences, promising something for every palate. - Get Ready for Your Visit to San Diego
There's every reason to put San Diego at the top of your travel list. This sunny California city calls out with its perfect weather, where the sun generously shines, making every outdoor adventure inviting. The city's rich history, from the Gaslamp Quarter to Old Town, offers a glimpse into its vibrant past, while the diverse food scene promises a culinary journey from hearty street food to upscale dining.
But what truly sets San Diego apart is the sheer variety of experiences it offers. You've got some of the most picturesque beaches for relaxation and surfing, world-renowned attractions like the San Diego Zoo, and cultural hubs where creativity thrives. And let's not forget the endless opportunities for hiking, with trails offering stunning views of the cityscape and coastline.
Now, getting to San Diego has never been easier. With its well-connected airport and various travel packages that cater to different budgets and preferences, planning your trip is a breeze. So, what are you waiting for? Whether you're seeking a laid-back beach getaway, a deep dive into history and culture, or a food expedition, San Diego awaits with open arms. It's time to make those travel dreams a reality and book your San Diego adventure!
San Diego Cruises Frequently Asked Questions
- What are San Diego cruises?
San Diego cruises are the best way to travel and explore parts of the world while also relaxing and rejuvenating. Each cruise has different stops and destinations, so be sure to do your research and find the one that includes the locations you're interested in visiting! If you're looking for a fun escape, then there's a San Diego cruise for you.
- What’s included on a San Diego cruise?
San Diego cruises include meals and accommodation. Of course, each cruise has varying accommodation options and different dining options. Many amenities are also included, such as 24/7 front desk service, televisions in rooms, etc. There are also lots of great entertainment onboard, so be sure to take advantage of that!
- What’s the best San Diego cruise?
There isn't one San Diego cruise that is better than the other because none is the same! It depends on the cruise you're interested in taking, the length of the trip you'd like, and your budget. You'll want to research to determine which one best works for you.
- How much do San Diego cruises cost?
Prices range drastically for each cruise, depending on how long of a cruise it is. Our San Diego cruises start around $60 per day and go up in price from there. Often, the longer cruises end up being a lower price per day, so that's something to consider when choosing a cruise!
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