Where to Enjoy Outdoor Activities in San Diego
When it comes to enjoying the outdoors, San Diego is in a class by itself. Not only is our legendarily mild year-round weather almost always perfect for getting outside, but the incredibly varied landscape of the area makes enjoying all kinds of outdoor activities in San Diego a breeze — no matter what you happen to be into, there’s something for everyone here.
Read on to check out some of our favorite places to get out and enjoy all the best of the outdoors in San Diego.
Presidio Park (1.8 miles away)
Presidio Park is one of the San Diego park system’s loveliest outdoor spaces. But beyond just being beautiful, this is also an area of great historical significance. Spanish missionaries Gaspar de Portola and Junipero Serra built the San Diego Presidio and the Mission San Diego de Alcalá here in 1769, making it the site of the first European settlement in what would come to be known as California. This park is located adjacent to Old Town San Diego and has many great locations to set up a picnic and take a small hike to some of the area’s best hilltop views — making it the perfect place for a scenic photo op. This park is also a hotspot for those seeking paranormal sightings and investigations.
2811 Jackson St, San Diego, CA 92110
Balboa Park (2.2 miles away)
Along with Presidio Park, Balboa Park is one of the crown jewels of San Diego. At 842 acres, it’s one of the largest urban park spaces in the country — making it an even bigger green space than New York’s Central Park. In addition to being an absolutely beautiful nature spot, the park is also home to some of San Diego’s most acclaimed museums, restaurants, and public art. So it’s the ideal place to have a leisurely stroll and appreciate the fresh air.
1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Zoo (3.2 miles away)
The San Diego Zoo is justifiably regarded as one of the finest zoos in the country. It’s home to more than 3,700 animals of more than 650 different species — including many threatened and endangered. The zoo’s exhibits, plus its conservation and education efforts, draw more than 3.2 million visitors every year. Don’t miss your chance to spend a leisurely day strolling the grounds, visiting your favorite animal friends, and taking in the fantastic weather.
2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Torrey Pines Reserve (15.6 miles away)
Torrey Pines Reserve is one of San Diego’s most remarkable outdoor spaces. Ancient sandstone features sweep elegantly across the terrain here, adjacent to truly spectacular views of the Pacific. If hiking’s your thing, Torrey Pines offers trails of all levels. While here, don’t miss the most notable feature of this striking area — the reserve is one of only two places on the planet where you can see the Torrey Pine, one of the rarest trees in existence.
12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Carlsbad Flower Fields (29.6 miles away)
The breathtaking Carlsbad Flower Fields draw tens of thousands of visitors to a beautiful super-bloom of Giant Tecolote ranunculus flowers every year. Row after row of brilliant rainbow colors ripple across the landscape during peak seasons. When visiting, guests are treated to not just the brilliant botanical display, but also a wide range of family-friendly activities, such as antique tractor rides, fruit picking, and even a historic Poinsettia greenhouse.
5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
San Diego Beaches
California’s shoreline stretches on for hundreds of miles. And thanks to San Diego’s famous inland bays, we have even more beach than it might appear at first glance — so you’re never far from a relaxing day at the waterfront. Not sure where to start? Take a look at our previous blog post, “Best San Diego Beaches From North to South.” So take a look, pick the one that’s right for you, and start soaking up some sun.
It’s true: There’s no place quite like San Diego for getting the most out of the great outdoors — and that includes your stay at Days Inn! Our guests are welcome to enjoy all of our outstanding outdoor amenities, including our heated pool, hot tub, and even Splash Cinema — where you can take in a classic movie right from the pool! Feel free to check out our exclusive Offers and Specials when you’re ready to explore all the outdoor fun San Diego has to offer.