San Diego, and all of North County, in Southern California is a beautiful area of the United States to live and travel! There is something to do for everyone, all ages and interests, with great weather too. While there is a lot to do for adults, nightlife, baseball games, and more, my page will focus on family-friendly activities, especially for young children, toddlers, and babies. We focus on family time, so our adventures include three young kids, ages 0-6.
Two random things that I didn’t realize before living in Southern California were that it actually gets cold and it’s almost like Orlando with all of the theme parks!
Best time of year to visit? It depends on what you plan to do while you’re here! Like I mentioned, it gets cold! It’s a desert-like terrain, so mornings and evenings are chilly; bring a sweater. It’s also not swimming weather during the winter, and most people do not swim in the Pacific without a wet suit. The beaches are beautiful, but it’s not like visiting sunny, warm Florida beaches. Most hotels only have outdoor pools, and even when heated can feel cold. If you’re planning on swimming, visit in the summer months. That being said, the middle of the day is often warm, that you can hike and enjoy the outdoors comfortably!
Favorite things to do near downtown San Diego?
- Balboa Park Museums
- San Diego Zoo (at Balboa Park)
- SEAL tour
- The New Children’s Museum
- San Diego Children’s Park
- Old Town
Best things to do in San Diego suburbs, like the North County cities of Escondido, Encinitas, Carlsbad, & Oceanside?
- San Diego Safari Park (The San Diego Zoo has two separate locations, that are not close together.)
- Mission Bay Boardwalk
- La Jolla tide pools, seals, & sea lions
- Hike Annie’s Canyon
- Carlsbad village
- Hike Mt. Calavera in Carlsbad, an extinct volcano
- Oceanside Pier
- Oceanside Harbor & sea lions
- Fun playgrounds and parks
- Olympus Park, Encinitas
- Alga Norte Park & Aquatics, Carlsbad
- Poinsettia Park, Carlsbad
- Oceanside Pier playground on the beach, and just south is another playground too.
Favorite restaurants?
- Hash House A Go Go – often busy so prepare to wait, but delicious with generous portions
- The Taco Stand – Typically has a long line but worth the wait!
- Parlor Donuts – delicious, unique donuts near the Oceanside Pier
- Handel’s Ice Cream – Homemade ice cream, made fresh daily, multiple locations including the Carlsbad village & across from the Oceanside library
- Señor Grubby’s
- Green Cheek Beer Co.
- Board & Brew – Multiple locations including the Carlsbad village. Delicious sandwiches with a tasty sauce.
- Cafe Elysa
- Norte Mexican
- Eat Crispy Burger – More like fast food but made fresh and delicious.
- Casa De Reyes, Old Town – Often has live music with cute, tourist shops surrounding the outdoor seating courtyard.
- Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers – a great stop after visiting the San Diego Safari Park