Six Reasons San Diego is a Must-Visit Destination
Are you itching to plan your next adventure? No matter what you want to do, and what you want from a vacation, San Diego has it all. As California’s second-largest city, you’ll be able to find everything you want to experience here. Here’s just a few reasons why you’ll want to check it out. 
1. The Incredible Beaches
One of the best things about San Diego is that you have your pick of beaches, and they all have different vibes. With a vibrant bar scene and buzzing nightlife, Pacific Beach is the place to party. Just strolling the strip of bars along the beach will bring you to a jumping bar or party. There’s more than just partying to be had in Pacific Beach, though, and we recommend restaurants like La Playa Taco Shop and Dirty Birds for wings.
Ocean Beach is known for its quirky vibe and culinary digs. It brings people from all walks and ages together, and you’re sure to encounter some interesting characters if you spend time in Ocean Beach. The Wednesday night Farmer’s Markets in Ocean Beach are must-hit, and it’s best to come hungry since the market provides plenty of food stands with dishes that come from all around the world. Watching the sunset by the pier is one of the best ways to spend an evening in Ocean Beach. If you like to surf, check out Black’s Beach!
Mission Beach is perfect because of its low-key vibe and ideal location. If you want to experience the nightlife in Pacific Beach but prefer a quieter setting for sleep, we recommend booking a room at our ITH Mission Beach Backpacker Hostel which is within walking distance to Pacific Beach. Our hostel is perfectly sized and gives you plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travelers, or do your own thing and relax. As for the Mission Beach area, there’s Belmont Park and the Pier to check out during your stay.
2. Excellent Weather All Year Round
One of the best things about San Diego is the weather. The sun shines nearly 365 days a year, which means you have optimal weather for exploring, swimming, and surfing. People love San Diego because of its moderate weather and temperate climate. Temperatures hover around the 70’s, and even on cloudy days, you’re likely to see the sun. It’s about as close to the Mediterranean climate as you’ll find in the United States!
3. An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise
For adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, San Diego is a top destination. Since the weather is so favorable, you can find almost any time frame during the year to visit and experience the outdoors. From exploring Balboa Park and Torrey Pines State Reserve to surfing Black’s Beach and swimming at Pacific Beach, there’s something for everyone. We recommend spending a day in La Jolla and booking a sea cave tour or snorkeling session. If you’ve ever wanted to swim with the sea lions, this is the place for you!
4. Tons of History
Are you a history buff? San Diego is considered to be the birthplace of California as we know it, as the first Spanish settlers landed in 1769. This was when Old Town San Diego was founded, although Native Americans had been living here a long time before then. While visiting San Diego, Old Town is a must-hit. Tons of great restaurants, shops, and sights make for a great day of exploring in Old Town. If you’re in San Diego during Cinco De Mayo, Old Town throws one of the biggest parties around!
5. The Iconic Balboa Park
We mentioned Balboa Park, and this is another top destination in San Diego. Balboa has several buildings that are still standing from the Panama California Exposition in 1915, and tons of museums to explore. The San Diego Museum of Art is one of the best museums in Balboa and one that you shouldn’t miss. To maximize your experience, different packages for passes give you access to all the different museums in Balboa. Some are free, but many charge admission.
If you’re looking just to walk around, hang out, and soak up some sun, Balboa is also perfect for that, too. There are plenty of trails to explore and open spaces where you can relax. Sundays are a great day to visit Balboa Park, as each Sunday they put on lawn programs that provide entertainment and fun for the crowds. For a full Balboa experience, consider booking a tour!
6. A Vibrant Bar Scene
With different districts for drinking and nightlife, San Diego offers a range of options for those who like to cut loose. San Diego is home to loads of breweries and gastropubs. Ballast Point is one of the biggest and most recognizable names in the beer business, and it began in San Diego. If you’re into spirits and liquor, check out Cutwater Spirits. The Gaslamp District is easily accessible from downtown San Diego and is a great place to hit up before or after a San Diego Padres baseball game.
For dive bars and local hangs, head up to Kerney Mesa. This part of town is filled with fun local bars that regularly feature karaoke. Plus, Kerney Mesa is a hotbed for delicious Korean BBQ! Downtown San Diego is another great place to go out, and we recommend checking out bars like Cherry Bomb and American Junkie for a memorable experience.
With so much to do and see, San Diego is a special place that is worth visiting for more than a few days. Spend your nights at one of our hostels. With Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and Little Italy to choose from, you have plenty at your disposal!
Want to see more of San Diego? Check out this video!
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