How to Have an Epic San Diego Adventure

Everyone knows that San Diego’s perennial warm weather, beautiful beaches, and picturesque coastal backdrop make it a prime vacation destination. And with conditions so perfect, it’s no surprise that this Southern California gem is a big draw for outdoor adventures. Even better, getting outside is a great way to socially distance until indoor activities reopen. 

Whether you plan on taking to the skies, hitting the water, staying on land, or some combination of all of the above, you’ll have no trouble keeping busy here.

Take to the Skies

Whenever you visit someplace new, it’s always nice to start by getting a good look at your surroundings — and there’s no better place to do it than from up in the sky. Paragliding, parasailing, skydiving, and even bungee jumping allow you to soak up all the beauty of the world-famous California coast from an elevated perspective. Gaze across the water as it stretches out toward the horizon and appreciate the striking geography of Pacific Beach, Mission Bay, and San Diego Bay. Head to Torrey Pines Gliderport, San Diego Parasailing Adventures, Pacific Coast Skydiving, or GoJump Oceanside for all your high-flying needs.

Wet, Wild, and Wonderful

Of course, if you want to make the most of this gorgeous location, you’ll need to take advantage of its biggest attraction: the ocean. In the warmer weather, you can cruise the bay on a paddleboard, head out for a surf session with our partners at San Diego Surf School, or turn up the adrenaline on a shark dive. Even in the colder months (and it never gets too cold), deep-sea fishing, sailing tours, and whale-watching excursions allow you to spend time on the Pacific waters. Check with our Front Desk Agent for recommendations and reservations.

Terra Firma

There’s also plenty of fun to be had back on dry land. Choose to head inland and explore the impressive network of canyons, foothills, and mountains on foot or bike, or stay near the coast and enjoy the ocean breeze and expansive vistas. Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of the most popular local spots for hiking, and if you go during the spring, you might even glimpse migrating whales from up on the cliffs. Alternatively, if you prefer to end your journey with a refreshing dip, we recommend hiking to Three Sisters Waterfalls or Cedar Creek Falls.

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never gets old!

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Set Off Spelunking

San Diego’s stunning seaside location and extremely variable terrain means that there are many exceptional cave formations in and around the area. Why not rent a kayak and paddle your way into the La Jolla Sea Caves? Or visit The Cave Store, where you can shop for cool beachy souvenirs and gifts AND explore a picturesque sea cave? If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, you can wait for low tide and head to Sunset Cliffs Sea Cave, where you’ll be able to experience a once-in-a-lifetime open-ceiling cavern that’s as picturesque as it gets, even for California. 

Behind the Wheel

Everyone loves a good road trip. Thankfully, San Diego is so full of breathtaking vistas that hitting the road for a drive can be an adventure in and of itself. Setting your GPS for Point Loma will take you on a cruise past city scenery and lush greenery on your way to the southwesternmost point in the continental United States. Heading for Ocean Beach will have you rolling past the stunning sandstone formations of Sunset Cliffs on your way to one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline in the state. And the road to La Jolla is much like the town itself — colorful, coastal, and filled with fun. 

Say Hello to Hydrosports 

The emerging popularity of hydrosports represents the perfect marriage of sea and sky. Hoverboard, Flyboard, jetpacks, and other similar devices use the power of water pressure to launch you into the air and help you soar. Riders are secured safely to small apparatuses that draw in water and expel it at a high pressure in order to achieve speed and altitude. There’s a bit of a learning curve, but once you’re acclimated, it’s time to fly! Head to Fly Guys WaterSports, Jetpack America, or Aquatic Aviation to get started.

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The good life! 🍻🚀🌞@flyboardmaceio #flyboarding

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For those that like staying active, San Diego has no shortage of outdoor adventures easy to get to from Pacific Terrace Hotel. Just make sure you save time for enjoying Southern California’s other favorite activity: lounging on the sand.

When you’re ready to book your San Diego visit, check out our latest offers and specials here.