San Diego weather is pretty perfect year-round, but longer days when summer rolls around makes it the perfect time to tick things off of your San Diego bucket list. Check out 10 unique sports to visit in San Diego in the summer as you take advantage of warmer days, including a few you may not have heard of before.
1. San Diego Museum of Us
The Museum of Us in Balboa Park is one of the most interesting museums in San Diego. Learn about everything from the history of beer to popular monsters in folklore as you have some summer fun in San Diego. If you have more time, book a tour up the California Tower for panoramic views of the park and beyond. You can only visit on guided tours.
2. The Cave Store
The only way to tour the Sunny Jim sea cave is through The Cave Store, a La Jolla shop that regulates traffic through a narrow tunnel down to the cave. You’ll need to climb up and down 145 steps to get to and from the cave, but the views of La Jolla Cove are well worth it. Once you’re down there, see if you can notice the face shape in the opening of the cave.
3. The Whaley House
The Whaley House in Old Town is a popular Halloween stop, thanks to its haunted past. That doesn’t make it any less intriguing when it comes to San Diego summer activities. Visit the Whaley House for a self-guided tour of the museum. Costumed docents will give you a rundown of why it’s one of the most haunted places in the United States, let alone San Diego County.
4. Harper’s Topiary Garden
Harper’s Topiary Garden in Mission Hills is the work of a local couple who wanted to turn their front yard into the ultimate example of curb appeal. Today, you can see about 50 unique trees and shrubs shaped into surfers, pyramids, and all kinds of animals. While the couple welcomes photos, the garden is on private property. Be respectful!
5. Chicano Park
Colorful murals dedicated to San Diego’s Mexican community decorate this park in the Barrio Logan neighborhood. If you look closer, some of the murals are calls to action, with many of them a work in progress based on the news of the day. Stop by on your way to sample the neighborhood’s underrated eateries and breweries, including nearby Mujeres Brew House.
6. Fathom Bistro, Bait, and Tackle
Speaking of San Diego’s craft beer scene, head to Shelter Island for this local spot on the pier that always has something unique flowing on tap. Limited tables outside allow you to sip with views of the waterfront. It’s a great place to spot sea lions looking for scraps from nearby boats. Fathom serves homemade sausages and snacks, too, if you’re hungry.
7. Lucy Evans Lauren Memorial Garden
If you’ve already been to Cabrillo National Monument, impressive views await nearby at the Lucy Evans Lauren Memorial Garden. This public tribute garden is dedicated to the wife of George Lauren, a philanthropist who was very active in the Point Loma neighborhood you’ll find this one in. George has since also passed away, but their memory lives on.
8. Queen Califia’s Magical Circle
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle is exactly what it sounds like: a magical maze that leads you to a series of colorful sculptures from French artist Niki de Saint Phalle. You’ll need to head up to Kit Carson Park in Escondido for this one, but it’s worth the trip. Once you’re done with the art, spend time in the park. It’s one of the best things to do in San Diego this summer.
9. Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
San Diego’s popular 7 Bridges Hike takes you to — and over — the city’s most historic urban bridges, but it’s 5.5 miles long. The Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is the most popular one with locals if you’re short on time. The gently swaying bridge over Kate Sessions Canyon is a popular photo stop for engagement shoots, hidden enough that you can’t see the main street.
10. Secret Swings & Troll Bridges
La Jolla is known for its fancy side, but it’s also pretty whimsical. Hidden “troll” bridges, or stone bridges, add a fairytale feel to streets around Mount Soledad. The “secret” swings are well-known on social media, but they keep visitors guessing because they’re cut down from time to time. For a guaranteed view, the swing at the top of a hill near the Birch Aquarium seems to be there for the long term.
Explore the hidden spots of San Diego.
San Diego is full of adventure. Take advantage of everything that makes the city so unique with these hidden spots around San Diego, or find your own secret spots and make your own memories!