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Sports & Recreation

Outdoor activities in San Diego is a year round pursuit

Photo By Aaron Chang

The Inside Scoop on Outdoor Activities in San Diego

San Diego may be known as a relaxing, kick-off-your-shoes beach destination but the locals have a passion for sports and recreation that runs as deep as the Pacific. An ideal climate, 70 miles of coastline and diverse topography draw outdoor enthusiasts to San Diego year-round. Whether you're looking for a heart-pounding mountain biking excursion, an active surf lesson or even an exhilarating high-flying glide above the cliffs, there's always something exciting and thrilling to watch, do and discover in San Diego. Find the perfect outdoor activities in San Diego for you!

Watersports

If watersports are on your vacation agenda, you'll find plenty of options including sport fishing, sailing, jet-skiing, kayaking, paddle boarding, scuba diving, and surfing, to name a few.

Individual Sporting Activities

On land, enjoy outdoor activities in San Diego like gorgeous hikes in the backcountry and along the coast, rock climbing, golfing at over 90 courses, mountain biking, running along urban and rural routes and horseback riding. For a bird's eye perspective on the spectacular San Diego coastline, try your hand at paragliding or hang gliding from La Jolla's Gliderport or skydiving both indoor and out.

Spectator Sports

For spectator sports fans, there is plenty of cheering to do as San Diego's professional sports teams battle it out each season. The nice sunny weather in makes these outdoor activities in San Diego even more enjoyable. Get your Major League Baseball fix with the San Diego Padres at Petco Park, where ballpark food takes on a whole new meaning with some of San Diego's favorite eateries and local craft beer on tap. Beyond the MLB, there are plenty of other spectator sports to enjoy, including international soccer tournaments, indoor soccer, ice hockey, rugby games, surfing, action sports competitions, marathons and much more.

Browse the articles and listings below to discover outdoor activities in San Diego and San Diego's best spots for fishing, sailing, scuba diving, mountain biking and more!

Farmers Insurance Open

Jan 22 - Jan 25, 2025

Mark your calendars now, because one of San Diego’s biggest events of the year returns January 22-25, 2025 at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course. We are excited to welcome fans back to the course for this year's tournament to experience San Diego's premiere social & golf event. Don't miss out on the breathtaking views, world-class golf, and an unrivaled experience at Torrey Pines.

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Farmers Insurance Open

Jan 22 - Jan 25, 2025

The PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open is played annually at the Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, home of the 2008 & 2021 U.S. Open. Mark your calendars now, because one of San Diego’s biggest events of the year returns January 22-25, 2025 at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course. We are excited to see you at Torrey to experience San Diego's premiere social & golf event.  Don't miss out on the breathtaking views, world-class golf, and an unrivaled experience at Torrey Pines.

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San Diego International Auto Show

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025

Where the cars are the stars! The San Diego International Auto Show features the widest variety of new vehicles under one roof.

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CONCACAF Gold Cup

Mar 1 - Mar 30, 2025

 

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Explore the San Diego Bay!

Mar 4, 2024 - ongoing

Set out on the water as your own captain on a high-adrenaline boat ride in San Diego! Zip along the coastline and take in the stunning views of area attractions like the Maritime Museum, Seaport Village, and of course, the iconic downtown skyline. No other boat rental in San Diego packs this much excitement and sightseeing into one fun-filled day. Embark on the Adventure Tour or become a real VIP as you fly over the water in a speed boat before exploring the streets on an electric scooter. No matter how you choose to experience the city, our San Diego boat tours offer premier sightseeing with a twist.

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View More Events

Farmers Insurance Open

Jan 22 - Jan 25, 2025
Discover

San Diego International Auto Show

Dec 28, 2024 - Jan 1, 2025
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CONCACAF Gold Cup

Mar 1 - Mar 30, 2025
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Mar 4, 2024 - ongoing
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Neighborhoods

Offers

Tours & Sightseeing

$5 OFF | Waterfront Dinner Cruise

Flagship Cruises & Events
Valid: Nov 7 - Dec 31, 2024

    Indulge in our fall-winter California Coast dining experience, featuring vibrant cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Marc Brislin. Each course an be paired with our array of locally...

Accommodation

SeaWorld Package

Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina
Valid: Aug 9 - ongoing

The Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina is the perfect waterfront location for exploring all that Southern California has to offer. The hotel is just minutes away from popular attractions like...

Activity

Show Your Badge & Save at the Maritime Museum!

Maritime Museum of San Diego
Valid: Apr 16 - ongoing

Come and explore our connection with the sea at the Maritime Museum of San Diego! Spanning 500 years of seafaring history, your visit to the Museum will give you a chance to step aboard an historic...

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