San Diego: 10 Activities to Try this Spring
1. Kayak the Seven Sea Caves of La Jolla (La Jolla Shores – Coastal San Diego)
If you’ve never kayaked at La Jolla Shores you’re missing out! Tourists and locals alike flock to La Jolla Shores for its beautiful sandy beaches and varied wildlife. On any given day, you may see sea lions, pelicans, leopard sharks, or maybe even a dolphin! One of our favorite rental companies is La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks which also offers guided kayaking and snorkeling tours to explore the Seven La Jolla Sea Caves. Beginning April 1st, tours will be available daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and run approximately 1.5 hours. Check their site for daily specials, or to make a reservation.
2. Participate in a Themed Race or Charity Walk (Throughout San Diego)
San Diego is the host of all kinds of races – from 3k to full marathons, mud runs, “fun” runs and more! One of our favorites is the Suja Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and half marathon, benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Others include the Peace-Love-Run on Mission Bay, the Aloha 5k Fun Run and Walk in Santee, the Cycle EastLake & Run in Chula Vista, and the Live Well San Diego 5K in NTC Park at Liberty Station.
3. Hike Cowles Mountain (San Carlos – Central San Diego)
Cowles Mountain (pronounced “Kohl’s” Mountain) is one of the most popular hiking trails in San Diego, and is enjoyed by hundreds of people each day. The hike to the top is approximately 1.5 miles, which makes it a popular destination for people of all ages and fitness levels. The summit at the top is a spacious, open area, with plenty of large rocks to sit on and enjoy the views of Lake Murray, Downtown San Diego, and the Pacific Ocean.
4. Get a Group Together for a Scavenger Hunt! (Downtown San Diego)
Experience San Diego in a whole new way! Urban Adventure Quest offers an exciting scavenger hunt adventure, which starts in the heart of Old Town and takes you through points in Little Italy, the Maritime Museum, the USS Midway, and the Bob Hope Memorial. The quest takes approximately 3 – 3.5 hours, and covers about 3 square miles.
5. Take a Trapeze Class (Escondido – North San Diego)
Get in excellent shape while having a great time! Trapeze High, located in Escondido, is San Diego county’s only flying trapeze class. The company assures that beginners are welcomed with open arms – a minimum of three fully trained staff operate the rig, and you are always fully harnessed in safety lines with a full safety net stretched beneath you.
6. Take an ATV Tour & Explore San Diego’s Mountainous Terrain (Pine Valley – East San Diego)
San Diego may be known for its beautiful beaches, but we have much more to offer than that! Spend the day riding around on San Diego’s mountain trails, or try out one of the numerous local desert river washes. Companies like San Diego ATV Rentals offer half day, full day, or two day tours that are sure to give you a great workout and get your adrenaline pumping!
7. Visit Torrey Pines State Reserve (La Jolla – Coastal San Diego)
The Torrey Pines State Reserve is one of the most beautiful spots in San Diego County. With several hiking trails at different intensities, this is a good choice for hikers of all levels. While entrance to the park is free, there is a $15 fee to park in the lot. Yelp reviewers recommend arriving early for a better chance at snagging a parking spot on the street.
8. Take a Stand Up Paddle Boarding Lesson (Mission Bay or La Jolla – Coastal San Diego)
Two of the best places to try stand-up paddle boarding are on Mission Bay or at La Jolla Shores. Both locations offer beautiful views and smooth waters, which are great, especially for beginners. Even if you don’t know anything about the sport, there are several great companies that offer lessons to teach you the proper stance, how to balance, and paddling and steering techniques. One of our favorites is Everyday California, which also offers kayaking and snorkeling tours.
9. Play Beach Volleyball in South Mission Beach (Coastal San Diego)
South Mission Beach is famous for its boardwalk lined with eclectic homes, wide sand, and most recently its volleyball courts. The courts are open on a first-come, first-served basis, except during scheduled tournaments. Click here for some basic rules for playing on the courts at S. Mission Beach.
10. Take a Walkabout at the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park (Central & North San Diego)
Looking to get in a workout with little ones? Hit up the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido. Many areas of the park are quite hilly, especially near the tiger area and the cheetah and lion area. Elevators are also available for those unable to climb. Another option is to visit the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park and walk the 1.2 mile loop. Those who purchase a membership to the San Diego Zoological Society receive an annual pass to both the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Visit the San Diego Zoo’s website for more information about upcoming events, purchasing memberships, and more.
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