San Diego can be a super expensive place to live and even visit! It is frequently among the top 10 most expensive places to live in the U.S. However, that does not mean your experience here has to be so expensive. Here are some things to do for cheap in San Diego while you’re here.
1. NATURE TRIP
We were talking about cheap, but what’s cheaper than free? With the nature trip it will cost you nothing but yourself and adventure.
Go for a hike, you are in California, a wonderland of outdoor activities awaits you. And these spots are free, making it very obvious that the most beautiful natural wonders are all we really need.
LOS PEÑASQUITOS CANYON PRESERVE
Meaning “little cliffs;” a 3-mile hike that will come out at a waterfall!
LA JOLLA COVE
Beautiful waters, sluggish seals and a view that won’t quit; even if the water is too cold to swim in it’s hard to be disappointed.
TORREY PINES STATE RESERVE
The beach sand sparkles because of the high amount of the mineral mica; go at sunset and watch the entire scenery dazzle in the light.
2. DINING/SHOPPING
SEAPORT VILLAGE
Historically for the fisherman, it is still true. They come in with their catches of the day, and you can have the first pick! Or maybe just grab a drink at one of the many shops and watch the people.
OLD TOWN
Hop on the trolley (super cheap $6 day passes on Compass Cloud) and emerge back in time. This area was established in 1769 and the buildings transport you to a time of Westerns and Mexican architecture. Walk around and take in the art and culture of the neighborhood.
WATERFRONT PARK
This park overlooks the bay Downtown where they ships rest. Take in their magnificence as you sit in the grass and watch the fountains in the park. It’s a nice place to relax in the sun and get the breeze from off the sea.
COFFEE? BEER?
Both are taken seriously in San Diego by artisans that have perfected their trade. Needless to say, you will have plenty of options all over the city to try truly tasty brews; caffeinated and alcoholic
3. A LITTLE ADVENTURE
WHALE WATCHING AT CABRILLO NATIONAL MONUMENT
In the winter months, the whales make an appearance in San Diego. If you drive to the Cabrillo National Monument it costs $5. If you walk into the monument it is $3. This is a known good place to see the biggest mammals wave as they migrate through.
KITE FLYING ON TECOLOTE SHORES
The only cost is your kite! Buy one and head out to Tecolote Shores where the winds are perfect for the kites to take flight. It’s a pretty way to enjoy the open skies speckled with flying colors.
FLYING LEATHERNECK AVIATION MUSEUM & HISTORICAL FOUNDATION
