Home ยป Best Things to Do Outdoors in San Diego

Best Things to Do Outdoors in San Diego

Things are weird in 2020, so we’re all looking for physically distanced things to do outside, right? That’s why I made this list which is packed full of the best and my favorite things to do in San Diego. Best of all…all the activities are outdoors!

Best Things to Do Outdoors in San Diego #jjadventures

Hike Torrey Pines

One of my favorite coastal hikes is the lush 2,000-acre beachfront of Torrey Pines. Winding trails along the native Torrey Pines and sandstone canyons, wildlife (including rattlesnakes), and a good workout! 8-miles of trails provide variety for everyone in your group from easy to moderate distances. With Torrey State Beach just a steep walk down the cliffs, it provides the perfect beach walk to end your hike.

Torrey Pines
12600 N. Torrey Pines Road 
San Diego, CA 92037

Torrey Pines #jjadventures
Torrey Pines #jjadventures
Hiking at Torrey Pines in San Diego, California #jjadventures

Go Fishing at Lake Murray

Lake Murray is located within the Mission Trails Park and is a popular place to go for a hike, bike, rollerblade, run, walk, and fish! Boats are available for rent or you can fish from shore. The reservoir is full of bass, bluegill, channel catfish, black crappie, and trout. Bait is available for purchase.

Lake Murray
5540 Kiowa Drive
La Mesa, CA 91942
More Information Here

Wine Tasting in Temecula

Temecula is situated between Los Angeles and San Diego and with over 3,500 acres of vineyards and 40+ wineries, it offers a beautiful resort destination for locals and tourists alike. A few of my favorites are Europa Village, Bottaia Winery, and Wilson Creek Winery.

Always make sure you have a designated sober driver!

Wine Tasting at Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula #jjadventures

Sail with Harbor Sailboats

Sailing with Harbor Sailboats means you’re sailing with the finest sailing club in San Diego. They offer a large fleet of new yachts ranging from 22′-51′ and the latest designs from Beneteau and Catalina. All of the staff and captains are highly knowledgeable about sailing (duh), the surrounding area and history, and a lot of fun!

I went out with Captain Robert and he quickly joined in on our family fun. He taught all that were interested the basic ropes of sailing and even let a few of us (that weren’t consuming) play skipper. ⛵

Harbor Sailboats
2040 Harbor Island Drive Suite 104
San Diego, CA 92101

Sailing with Harbor Sailboats #jjadventures
Harbor Sailboats in San Diego, California #jjadventures

Bonfire on the Beach

It doesn’t get much more SoCal than a bonfire on the beach. Fire pits are first-come, first-serve so grab some beverages, s’mores, and a group of friends then head down to the beach to grab a spot.

Just make sure to be mindful of a few things: only wood, charcoal, or paper products may be used as fuel, fuel for the fire may not exceed a height of more than 12″ above the upper edge of the fire container, the fire must be completely extinguished before leaving the beach, and coals must be removed or deposited in hot coal containers.

Check out this list for the best beaches for bonfires in Southern California.

Relax on the Beach in Carlsbad

Whether you’re taking a stroll to get some fresh air, having a picnic, or catching rays heading to the beach should always be at the top of your list of outdoor activities. Carlsbad State Beach has a gorgeous trail and surrounding area plus it’s extremely clean!

Carlsbad Beach #jjadventures

Ice Skate at Hotel del Coronado

If you think SoCal is only sunshine and beaches, you’re wrong! At the beautiful and famous Hotel del Coronado you can enjoy the beach while indulging in your favorite winter activity; ice skating! This unique experience offers outdoor ice skating overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Cozy up rink side on a private couch while watching the sunset enjoying hot cocoa or an adult beverage.

Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Avenue
Coronado, CA 92118

Explore La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove offers a wealth of marine life from seals, leopard sharks, spiny lobsters, mussels, crabs, octopuses, and an array of fish. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the perfect place to snorkel, scuba dive, or even rent a kayak. Rather stay on land? La Jolla offers over 5 miles of coastline for tide pooling. California has 2 high tides and 2 low tides per day. This provides even more opportunities to see hermit crabs, sea anemones, sea stars, sea hares, barnacles, and octopuses.

Check out more things to do in La Jolla like the Children’s Pool and Sea Caves here.

La Jolla Cove
1100 Coast Boulevard. (at Girard Avenue)
La Jolla, CA 92037

La Jolla Cove #jjadventures
La Jolla Sea Coves in San Diego #jjadventures

Stroll Through Seaport Village

Seaport Village is a charming waterfront area offering over 50 boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. A great place to grab souvenirs, a bite to eat, stroll through the outdoor village and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Seaport Village
849 W Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101

Seaport Village in San Diego, California #jjadventures

Get Cultured at Balboa Park

San Diego’s urban cultural park, Balboa Park, is home to renowned museums, theaters, and galleries placed on 1,200 acres of green open space. The elaborate promenade runs through the center and is surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens overflowing with native plants, exotic cacti, and even fruits and vegetables. Take in the San Diego Museum of Art’s sculpture garden, where you can enjoy local brews and food at the terrace restaurant Panama 66.

Balboa Park Visitors Center
1549 El Prado
San Diego, CA 92101

Do you live in or have you been to San Diego? Comment below with your favorite outdoor activity!

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3 Comments

  1. Chris Lincoln
    December 14, 2020 / 5:47 am

    You look Fabulous!

    • JJ
      Author
      December 17, 2020 / 10:00 am

      Thank you!!! ๐Ÿ™‚

      • Chris Lincoln
        December 17, 2020 / 11:16 am

        ๐Ÿ™‚

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