Calling All Kids: The Best Ocean-Inspired Activities in San Diego
Ahoy, mateys – your next vacation is calling! The family-friendly city of San Diego offers a number of activities to experience with your kids. Being right on the ocean, San Diego is filled with aquariums, aquatic centers, and sea life, all ready to be discovered with the whole family. Let your kids set sail on adventure when you check these ocean-inspired activities off your list.
Get Out on the Water
Situated on the calm waters of scenic Mission Bay, the Mission Bay Aquatic Center is one of the world’s largest instructional waterfront facilities, known for its variety of classes, lessons, events, and youth programs. Above all, MBAC prides itself on safety, professionalism, and fun. The youth programs include a watersports summer camp, educational classes, and birthday party packages for ages 6-17. Spend the day in the water learning something new with the entire family.
Location: 1.6 miles from the hotel
Visit the Sea Lions
Venture to La Jolla during your stay and witness the sea lions sunbathing on the shores of La Jolla Cove, in the sea caves, and at Children’s Pool beach area. Watch the pups play and the mamas sunbathe as the waves gently splash around them. Kids will love this up-close look at San Diego’s marine life.
Location: 4 miles from the hotel
Catch a Marine Show
SeaWorld is the ultimate waterpark, aquarium, and adventure park all rolled into one. The kids will love the Dolphin Days and Orca Encounter, and everyone will learn something new about the magnificent creatures inside the park. End the night with a thrilling ride on the Tidal Twister, SeaWorld’s brand-new rollercoaster offering twists and upside-down turns.
Location: 4 miles from the hotel
Learn About Sea Life
Spend a summer day at the aquarium learning about different marine species and enjoying the panoramic ocean views from the La Jolla coast. The Birch Aquarium holds more than 5,000 fish in over 60 different habitats, making it perfect for learning a thing or two with the kids. Enjoy hands-on activities, experience feedings, and dive deeper into ocean research from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
Location: 6.3 miles from the hotel
Build a Sandcastle
If you’re looking for a unique activity in San Diego, head down to the beach for a sand-castle-building lesson. Perfect for spending quality time with your kids, San Diego Sand Castle offers fun for the whole family. Learn about professional techniques, tools, and equipment with a seasoned instructor and create your own custom work of art. No art experience is necessary for this easy-going summer activity.
Location: 15 miles from the hotel