Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá, the first of the great California missions, marks the origin of Christianity in the American west. Founded in 1769, this remarkable historical shrine provides an understanding of the roots of Catholicism in this part of the world, and a look at the extraordinary dedication of the Spanish priests who traveled far from their home country.

Our ultimate night downtown will guide you from happy hour to dinner — and then whisk you off to a craft cocktail lounge, a rooftop bar and finally a pulsing nightclub to cap off the evening. And oh yes, and there's always time for a burrito after all the excitement!

If you're already a devoted surfer, you'll find a variety of different waves and conditions along San Diego's 70 miles of open ocean coastline to beckon you to paddle out. If you're a beginner, San Diego is an ideal place to learn to hang ten. You can also simply take in San Diego's surf culture at one of the yearly surf competitions and events. There's even one for "surFUR" four-legged shredders to raise funds for the San Diego Humane Society.

Encompassing a good portion of the city's most outstanding attractions, taking San Diego's 59-mile scenic drive is a beautiful way to spend a day.