What are the nearest attractions to San Diego Harbor?

Attractions near San Diego Harbor: Seaport Village USS Midway Museum New Children's Museum

What else should I know about attractions in San Diego?

As well as visiting the San Diego Harbor, check out these trip ideas to make the most of your visit: San Diego Zoo: Animal Live Cams How to Spend 2 Days in San Diego How to Spend 1 Day in San Diego

San Diego Harbor - History, Location & Key Facts 2022

The Basics

One of West Coast's top natural harbors, the San Diego Harbor is also home to some of the city’s major attractions. Climb aboard the USS Midway Museum, one of the U.S. Navy’s longest-serving aircraft carriers, and stop by the Maritime Museum of San Diego to see historic vessels and nautical-themed exhibitions. Visit Seaport Village for its restaurants, boutiques, and live-music performances. Families shouldn't miss Waterfront Park, with fountains and children’s play areas.

To get the most out of your visit, prebook attraction tickets and plan to see the harbor from a boat tour, or sign up for a helicopter ride for one-of-a-kind aerial views. It's also easy to independently visit area sights.

Things to Know Before You Go

The Embarcadero Marina Parks offer multiple options to soak up the scenery. Venture to the North and South branches for bike paths, art installations, and seasonal events.
Come expecting crowds—the San Diego Harbor is host to major hotels and the San Diego Convention Center.
Seaport Village hosts free live music performances daily in its West Village Food Court and on Sunday in its East Village Gazebo.

Trip ideas

How to Spend 3 Days in San Diego

How to Spend 2 Days in San Diego

Two days in San Diego means you can spend one day exploring historical and family attractions in the city and another on activities that highlight the area’s natural beauty and Southern California lifestyle. Here are a few ways to create a 2-day itinerary that encompasses the best of San Diego.

How to Spend 1 Day in San Diego

With a plethora of family-friendly attractions that highlight history, culture, and wildlife, plus its sunny setting on the Pacific, San Diego is an ideal place to spend a day, no matter what your interests are. Here are the top ways to experience the city with limited time.

9 Family Weekend Getaways in the US

Looking to escape it all? Well … with the kids in tow? Here’s where to head.

Things to Do in San Diego This Summer

Mexico Tours from San Diego

One of San Diego’s most exciting aspects is its proximity to Mexico—the border is just 17 miles (27 kilometers) from downtown, and this slice of Baja California is known for its natural beauty, fresh seafood, and vibrant culture. Here’s where to go.

Kids Go Free in San Diego

San Diego Zoo: Animal Live Cams

From polar bears diving into cold pools to koalas munching on leaves, these live cams allow you to explore the San Diego Zoo from the comfort of your couch.

When to Get There

There’s never a bad time of year to explore the attractions that line the San Diego Harbor. That said, as the area’s main attractions include museums, shops, and restaurants, it’s best to visit during normal opening hours. The area will be particularly crowded during the summer months.

Coronado Island

Accessible from mainland San Diego via the Coronado Bridge or a quick trip from the Harbor by ferry (use the Fifth Avenue Landing), charming Coronado Island is one of the best places to go for a day-trip beach retreat. Head to Coronado Beach & Dog Park for unspoiled white sands and a relaxing ambiance.

Recent reviews from experiences in San Diego

Perfect afternoon

Noel_P, Apr 2022

America's Cup Sailing in San Diego

So glad we picked this experience! Crew and staff were excellent. Its an awesome boat and we had excellent weather and wind.

Perfect sailing adventure on San Diego Bay

Janet_M, Apr 2022

Celebrating a 75th birthday. Operators delivered everything they promised ( and more! Great wind, great boat). Wonderful pictures, great crew. Marvelous experience.

Great Speed Boat experience

Mark_B, Jan 2022

San Diego Harbor Speed Boat Adventure

the whole experience was excellent. boats can go really fast, but felt safe thought. The guide was very helpful and gave all of the instruction and advice that was required.

Loved it! Was perfect,...

Gio_T, Jan 2022

Loved it! Was perfect, even got to see a beautiful double rainbow. Personally I suggest the 3-5 slot because of the beautify sunset.

Well worth the money!!!

Britney_C, Nov 2021

Amazing time! Very easy to find, access parking, and overall get started! The boat trip was very fun and we will be returning! The 2 hour trip was beautiful, I went during the 3pm slot and it was perfect, the sunset and views were amazing! Great tour guide!!!

Fast and furious fun in San Diego

Rocks, Aug 2020

This Speed boat adventure is the most legal fun anyone could have. We’re a 70 yr old married couple looking for safe activities during Covid. The guide,Geronimo , was awesome and gave us details during the tour.

Excellent experience!

Paul_F, Sep 2021

The trip was awesome! I had a great time. The staff was friendly and encouraging. The ship was leaning from time to time because the wind was blowing twice as hard as it usually does (According to one of the staff. Which I thought was a little extra cool). The day was beautiful, the sun was shining, and there's nothing like being on the ship with the wind blowing through your hair. Nothing but positives!

Mucho Funo

Brian_H, Oct 2021

Mucho funo - great value - SD is a great place for boating n these little boats next to air craft carriers is exciting

Fun!

Victoria_C, Sep 2021

Seeing the view of the city from the water was a experience most people don’t get. Also boating right under that enormous naval ship, I felt very proud of our Naval men and women who served.

Loved It

Dana_D, Aug 2021

The staff was so welcoming, friendly and very knowledgeable about sailing and about the general San Diego Bay area. Would definitely look into doing this again.

The best

Doug_H, Sep 2021

The whole thing. Just being on the water in a boat. And the view of everything like the wild life. And the navy ships. It was soo worth it

Super Sailing Experience - Do it!

Richard_F, Aug 2021

Starts with a great history lesson on the America’s Cup. Impressive teamwork needed to sail these boats. Being the fastest boat on the bay. Running the grinders for tacks and jibes.

San Diego Harbor