As one of the most popular cities across the U.S. to visit, San Diego is a travel destination that is on many travelers' bucket lists. Offering tons of attractions, beaches and beautiful weather, it's easy to see why millions of tourists visit "America's Finest City" each year. However, despite its popularity, a trip to San Diego can also be pricy, with the average traveler spending about $200 a day to visit the city.
If you're planning a visit budget-friendly visit to San Diego, you're in luck. There are many free things to do in San Diego that can help keep your vacation spending to a minimum. Check out these 18 free San Diego attractions worth visiting on your next trip, ideal for tourists of all ages. Planning a getaway to this beautiful city while adhering to a strict budget has never been easier.
Soak Up Sunshine
Soaking up the San Diego sun is one of the top free activities you can enjoy. From its beautiful beaches to natural parks, here are some sunny places to go in San Diego.
1. La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores
Address: 1100 Coast Blvd. (at Girard Ave), La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla Cove is one of the best free things to do in San Diego, a small coastal beach that offers plenty to do and explore. Start by visiting La Jolla Shores, a mile-long beach that is great for swimming and surfing. This popular beach is free and family-friendly, perfect for a day trip activity that won't cost anything. La Jolla Cove refers to the small deep water bay area, which is accessible to explore as well.
There's plenty to do at La Jolla Cove, from boogie boarding to biking along the paved trails. The "children's pool" area is great for looking for sea life. Although this area is no longer open for swimming, it’s great for getting up close to marine life, such as seals and sea lions.
La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores are easy to reach. Visitors can park in the parking lot or take the San Diego trolley to the area. In the La Jolla area, there is also the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial, which honors over 3,500 veterans. At the top of this memorial, visitors can enjoy amazing landscape and seascape views.
2. Explore Waterfront Park
Address: 1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101
Located in downtown San Diego, Waterfront Park is another of San Diego's free attractions. This public park is great for enjoying the beautiful weather in San Diego and won't cost you a thing. If you're visiting with kids, explore the children's play zones and splash fountain areas. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy with your family at the several picnic areas throughout the park.
Waterfront Park also hosts various events throughout the year, so be sure to check the event calendar to find more opportunities for low-cost activities during your visit. Several parking lots surrounding Waterfront Park may have low-cost daily parking fees.
3. Catch a Wave at Ocean Beach
Address: 1950 Abbott St., San Diego, CA 92107
If you're visiting San Diego during the summer, your trip won't be complete without a picturesque beach day. Ocean Beach is a great option for swimming, surfing and relaxing. Dogs are allowed on the special dog-only Dog Beach area, located between the north end of Ocean Beach and the Mission Bay Harbor Channel.
At Ocean Beach, there are plenty of free and low-cost activities you can do. Try hosting a beach bonfire or packing a picnic while enjoying the great weather. Ocean Beach also offers three free parking lots and free street parking throughout the region. After a day at the beach, check out the nearby Newport Avenue area, which has many restaurants and shops.
The Ocean Beach Farmers Market is also fun to explore, which is open year-round on Wednesdays. This open-air farmers market is free to roam and offers locally grown produce. In addition, you'll sometimes find fun live music events taking place at the farmer's market, too.
4. Cruise San Diego's Scenic Drive
Address: Various locations
Looking to do something different and uniquely explore San Diego? Check out the popular 59-mile scenic drive, which you can do in one afternoon. This scenic drive will take you about three hours to complete and is a loop that runs through the city's most popular neighborhoods. On the drive, you and your travel group can explore mountains, beaches and stunning views of San Diego from all angles.
This scenic drive also stops at many other free attractions in San Diego, allowing you to add other activities to your trip. Some stops along San Diego's famous scenic drive include Pacific Beach, La Jolla Cove and Old Town State Historic Park.
5. Unwind on Coronado Beach
Address: 100 Ocean Blvd., Coronado, CA 92118
Unwind and soak up the tranquility of beach life at Coronado Beach. This picturesque stretch of golden sand, measuring approximately 1.75 miles long, offers a haven for relaxation and fun in the California sun. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the gentle waves, work on your tan or build an epic sandcastle.
After a delightful day at the beach, explore the rest of Coronado, a charming peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. Discover Coronado's rich history, vibrant shops and delicious restaurants — all waiting to be explored!
6. Soak in the Ocean Views at The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Address: 12600 N Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037
Just north of San Diego, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve beckons with another haven of beautiful beaches, hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Take a day trip to explore over 1,500 acres of this natural wonderland.
Hike at your own pace, or join a guided group to discover hidden gems and learn more about the park's unique ecosystem. After your adventure, unwind on the sandy shores or soak in the panoramic views from the reserve's many bluffy overlooks.
7. Explore the Tide Pools at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Address: Ladera St., San Diego, CA 92107
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, located near Point Loma, is a stunning coastal oasis known for its beautiful ocean views and magnificent cliff formations. The park spans 68 acres and offers visitors scenic trails leading to picturesque vistas and hidden beaches.
Down at the beaches, explore the tide pools teeming with small marine life or watch the birds fly across the vibrantly-colored sky during sunset. This park is a must-visit for enjoying San Diego’s breathtaking coastline.
Immerse Yourself into the History and Culture
Steeped in history and culture, San Diego offers various experiences for budget-minded explorers. From the free museums in San Diego to outdoor historical landmarks, here are some must-dos for history buffs
8. Bike Through Mission Trails Regional Park
Address: 1 Father Junipero Serra Trail, San Diego, CA 92119
Known as the largest state-owned park in California, Mission Trails Regional Park is a huge, 8,000-acre park great for a variety of activities. The visitors center features lots of information to explore and learn about the wildlife you may see as you roam through the park.
The park has over 65 miles of trails to explore, and it is great for walking, biking or running. Many people also come to this park to boat on Lake Murray. This park is only about eight miles north of the downtown San Diego region. If you enjoy bird-watching, check out the free bird walks on the first Saturday of the month.
9. Tour Julian, An Official California Historical Landmark
Address: 2133 Main St., Julian, CA 92036
Julian, California, is a mountain area and gold-mining town with historical significance. Located in San Diego County, this historic region is a great idea for visitors looking for free things to do in San Diego. Visitors can pick up a free map of the Cuyamaca Mountains at the local Chamber of Commerce.
The maps and pamphlets offer a fun, self-guided walking tour throughout the town, which has several historical landmarks. On your self-guided walking tour, you'll pass the Pioneer Cemetery, Hotel Robinson, Julian Town Hall and several other interesting landmarks. This free activity near San Diego is an ideal stop if you love history and learning.
If you're lucky enough to visit Julian in the fall, don't miss a chance to check out their annual fall apple harvest (mid-September through November). Or, visit during April during Julian's Gold Rush Days, which explore the region's gold mining history.
10. Explore the Museums at Balboa Park
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Balboa Park is one of San Diego's most well-known and popular park areas in the downtown area. The park area has so much to do, including 18 free public gardens to explore and many museums. Many visit Balboa Park for its cultural offerings and free daily park tours.
There's plenty to do at no or low cost in Balboa Park, such as the Minegi Museum or Timken Museum of Art. During your visit, you'll see the Cabrillo Bridge, a famous entrance to the park. Balboa Park is also home to the famous Ed Cid Statue, a 23-foot bronze statue of this medieval hero famous in the eleventh century.
11. Browse Seaport Village
Address: 849 W Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101
Seaport Village is a large outdoor shopping and entertainment area within San Diego that is free to walk around and explore. Throughout the year, Seaport Village hosts many outdoor concerts and free entertainment as well. Spend the day browsing the boutiques and shops or exploring the boardwalk area, which offers plenty of free photo opportunities to capture your vacation memories.
12. Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Address: San Diego Ave. and Twiggs St., San Diego, CA 92110
Old Town San Diego, the site of California's first European settlement, is a must-visit. Luckily, exploring its rich past won't break the bank. The crown jewel, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, offers free admission, allowing you to delve into the fascinating story of early San Diego settlements.
Imagine life in the 1820s as you explore historic homes, shops and blacksmith demonstrations. Interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages, making history come alive.
Don't miss the chance to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town Plaza, a central gathering spot since the town's founding. Here, you can browse unique shops, savor delicious Mexican cuisine and experience the cultural heritage that continues to influence San Diego.
13. Take a Tour of the Historic Gaslamp Quarter
Address: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, CA 92101
While the Gaslamp Quarter is famous for its vibrant nightlife, budget-minded travelers can still enjoy its historical charm. Lined with Victorian-era buildings and gas lamps, this district offers a glimpse into San Diego's past. The Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation provides free walking tours led by knowledgeable guides on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Learn about the area's transformation from a lively red-light district to a trendy entertainment hub. Exploring the beautifully preserved streets will give you insights into the fascinating characters and events that shaped San Diego's history. It's a fantastic way to experience the unique character of the Gaslamp Quarter and gain a deeper appreciation for San Diego's rich history.
14. See the Murals at Chicano Park
Address: 1949 Logan Ave., San Diego, CA 92113
Explore the vibrant murals of Chicano Park and delve into San Diego's rich cultural heritage. Nestled under the Coronado Bridge, this open-air art gallery has over 80 murals created by local artists. Each masterpiece tells a powerful story, depicting themes of Chicano history, social justice and cultural pride.
Take a walk through the park and admire the stunning artwork. You will gain a deeper understanding of the Chicano experience and its ongoing influence on San Diego's cultural landscape.
Check Out Free Festivals and Events
Beyond its beaches and historical landmarks, San Diego has a vibrant calendar of free events and entertainment year-round. To help you plan your itinerary, here are some of the best free activities to consider, depending on the season of your visit.
15. Stroll the First Thursdays Art Walk
Address: 435 University Ave., San Diego, CA 92103
Unleash your inner artist at the First Thursdays Art Walk! True to its name, this free, monthly event (held on the first Thursday of every month) transforms San Diego's art scene into a bustling, open-air gallery.
Hop between galleries showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums. Connect with the artists themselves at receptions, soaking up the lively atmosphere filled with both visitors and locals. It's a fantastic way to spend a free evening in San Diego and support the local art community.
16. Enjoy Live Music at Pacific Beachfest
Address: Boardwalk between Felspar St. and Thomas St., San Diego, CA 92109
Craving some free live music? Head to Pacific Beachfest! This free, family-friendly festival in October transforms Pacific Beach with a vibrant music scene spread across multiple stages.
Immerse yourself in various genres, from local favorites and up-and-coming stars to energetic beach bands and classic rock. With something for every musical taste, sway to the rhythm under the California sun and soak up the festive atmosphere. Pacific Beachfest offers a budget-friendly way to experience San Diego's music scene and discover new tunes to add to your travel playlist.
17. Celebrate the Holidays at Balboa Park December Nights
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Visiting San Diego during the holidays? Don't miss Balboa Park December Nights! Held on the first weekend of December, this free event transforms the park into a magical winter wonderland. Immerse yourself in a dazzling display of twinkling lights illuminating the park's iconic buildings and gardens.
Enjoy festive live music and create lasting memories with family by participating in fun crafts. Savor delicious seasonal treats from a variety of food vendors, making December Nights a fantastic way to experience the holiday spirit and enjoy free entertainment.
18. Watch Outdoor Movies in the Park
Address: Various locations
Summer nights in San Diego sizzle with free outdoor movies! The city-wide Summer Movies in the Park series transforms various parks into open-air cinemas, offering a delightful experience for both residents and visitors. Enjoy a mix of recent releases, timeless classics and animated features suitable for all ages.
With screenings happening across San Diego County parks, choose a convenient location and pack a delicious spread of snacks and drinks to enjoy under the stars. Don't forget blankets or low-back chairs for comfortable seating. Check the Summer Movies in the Park website for the current schedule and locations.
Exploring the Best San Diego Free Attractions
As you plan your trip itinerary, take advantage of some of the best free stuff to do in San Diego. Whether you're on a tight budget or want to explore everything the city offers, these 18 free attractions are worth checking out. From free beaches to outdoor gardens, San Diego always has something unique to explore.
What are you waiting for? Join the over a million AAA members and start planning your free or low-cost activities for your trip to San Diego today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool, and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels, rental cars and entertainment tickets.