5 Amazing Things to Do in San Diego for Adults

August 14, 2018

For recommendations on what to do and where to go, check out our list below.

Let’s face it: As adults, we spend entirely too much time working. We all need to break away from the every day now and again, leaving the hustle and bustle of our routines behind for new experiences. One of the perfect places to do just that is San Diego. There are so many things to do in San Diego for adults you won’t waste a minute of your time wondering “What’s next?”

1) La Jolla Kayak

The scenic setting of La Jolla is ideal for water adventures like kayaking. The surrounding cliffs and seashores are pretty, but the main attraction is kayaking into the famous Seven Caves and La Jolla Underwater Park. The original La Jolla Kayak tour, which is 2-hours, includes sightings of spectacular marine life around, such as Dolphin, Sea Lions, Leopard Sharks, and Garibaldi. Plus, kayaking into a cave is seriously cool. If you’d prefer, though, you can choose a sunset kayak tour to experience those oh-so-lovely San Diego sunsets. Bonus: Stop at Seal Beach to get up-close with native sea lions.

opening of Sunny Jim Sea Cave La Jolla Sea Cave taken from inside cave with view of ocean during sunset in San Diego, California, USA

photo credit: Shalika Weerasingha via Facebook

2) Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve & Beach

The first time I visited Torrey Pines, I fell in love. The charming coastal nature reserve has some seriously breathtaking panoramic views unspoiled by the progress of man. Throughout the park, there are eight miles of trails, each zig-zagging along bluffs and with gorgeous overlooks of the Pacific Ocean at every turn.

Related Post: Do You Know Where To Stay In San Diego On A Budget?

The twisty Torrey Pine, found in only two places on Earth, is also a sight to behold as are the rugged cliffs and varied desert plant life. A sandy beach is the end reward for those on the Beach Trail and Broken Hill Trail, while the best scenic vistas can be found on the Razor Point and High Point Trail.

cliffs overlooking the beach at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve near San Diego, California, USA3) The Gondola Company

Gondolas seem to set just the right mood for romance. The Gondola Company accompanies guests around the Coronado Cays, an area dotted with beautiful homes and harbors. Cruises last 50-minutes, includes an Italian appetizer plate or dessert plate (think chocolate-covered strawberries), as well as a blanket to keep you cozy. Riders can also bring their own wine, with glasses and openers provided. Sit back, sip your beverage of choice, and let the gondoliers take you on a cruise ripe with passion. Sometimes the gondoliers even singing, making it a truly transportive experience. Tours depart daily from 3pm-Midnight.

4) Balboa Park

Where do I even start? Balboa Park, with over 85 attractions, provides the perfect playground for adults seeking a cultural experience. The main attraction at Balboa Park is the San Diego Zoo, but there are also 15 museums, gorgeous gardens, cultural centers, a carousel and more. Spend the day leisurely touring Balboa Park: listen to an outdoor organ concert, stroll through the free Japanese Botanical Garden, watch a play at The Old Globe Theater and dine at The Prado. With Spanish Revival Architecture framing all of Balboa Park, it’s easy to see why this is one of the favorite things to Do in San Diego for adults. For a complete Balboa Park guide, click here.

External view of lily pond at Casa de Balboa in San Diego, California, USA5) The Gaslamp Quarter

Searching for another of the top things to do in San Diego for Adults? If so, you can't miss The Gaslamp Quarter. Stretching for 16 square blocks, this Victorian-era district intermingles with modern skyscrapers creating a unique place to play. With more than 100 restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs, as well as shops and cultural offerings like theaters, art galleries, museums and concert venues, the Gaslamp Quarter is the go-to place to spend a night out in San Diego, California.

Rooftop bars are a signature of the Gaslamp Quarter’s nightlife scene. Altitude Sky Lounge, RoofTop600, and Float are just a few of places to sip a drink, soak up the skyline and enjoy the year-round balmy San Diego weather. Other popular bars include Barley Mash, The Tipsy Crow, and The Lucky Bastard Saloon. For the best date night dining, I recommend The Strip Club, Searsucker, Hopping Pig and Bang Bang. There are so many options, though, and you can’t go wrong with any of them. Check out our Gaslamp Quarter guide for even more suggestions.

Get Ready for a Good Time

As you can see, there are a variety of enticing things to do in San Diego for adults. And, this is list is just the start! Plan a San Diego vacation and discover all the ways adults can play in this inviting SoCal town.


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Written By Ashley

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