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Welcome to East County San Diego

Our Wild & Wonderful Backyard

San Diego's East County wilderness is one of the most diverse areas in the county featuring rolling hills, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, deep canyons and desert landscapes plus Indian casino gaming. 

Photo By Lou Mora

San Diego East County - Get Outside and Discover your Wild Side

 In contrast to the serene coastal landscape to the west, San Diego's East County wilderness is one of the most diverse areas in the county. The region boasts a beauty all its own, with rolling hills, majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and deep canyons. With the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Cleveland National Forest nestled in the region, outdoor lovers of all types will revel in a wondrous natural playground to explore and discover. From San Diego mountains to San Diego Deserts, East Country has a variety of landscape options.

East San Diego Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

East San Diego County offers hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing and camping in the vast and beautiful wilderness. Adventure to the San Diego Mountains. Spend an afternoon hiking Cowles Mountain, mountain biking through Mission Trails Regional Park, strolling along Lake Murray or fishing on El Capitan Reservoir.

East San Diego County Entertainment

In addition to outdoor adventures, East San Diego County boasts plenty of entertainment. Sizzling Las Vegas-style Native American casinos, luxurious resorts tucked right into the rugged landscape, challenging golf courses built around natural obstacles, historic sites and highways, and annual festivals and rodeos can be enjoyed, all within the expansive landscape of California's wilderness country.

East San Diego Day Trip to Julian

One of our favorite day trips to East San Diego is the historic mining town of Julian. Set against the backdrop of the Cuyamaca Mountains and countless apple orchards, this quaint town is as famous for its apple pie as it is for its collection of gold mines (several offer tours geared toward children). Julian offers a variety of restaurants, bed & breakfast hideaways, antique stores, art galleries and nearby hiking and nature walks.

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Getting to East County

East County is an expansive region, encompassing more than three quarters of San Diego County. The area can be accessed by heading east on Interstate 8, and California highways 94 and 52, 78 and 76. If you have a few hours, head up to the mountains and into the desert - Julian and Borrego Springs can be accessed from Highways 78 (off Interstate 15) and 79 (off Interstate 8). A bit closer to the city center, Lemon Grove, La Mesa, El Cajon and Santee can be reached via the Orange or Green lines of the San Diego Trolley.

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San Diego Casinos

Try your had with lady luck at one of the many Indian Las Vegas style gaming casinos.

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Explore Julian

This historic mountain hideaway is rich with natural beauty and entertaining adventures, whether you want to take a day trip in search of sublime apple pie or get away for a romantic weekend in the tranquility of the great outdoors.

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Wine Tasting in Ramona

Eight great Ramona Valley wineries that are worth a try.

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San Diego Casinos

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Explore Julian

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Wine Tasting in Ramona

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Romantic Wine Tour - Available Year Round

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Cajon Classic Cruise

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Catfish Opener

Apr 12 - Apr 13, 2025
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Step-On Guide Services

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East County on Instagram

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Wineries

Romantic Wine & Food Tours-Year Round!

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Where to Stay

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(800) 887-9103
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(619) 542-9931
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5. Five Star Tours

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6. Newport Landing Whale Watching

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7. Oceanside Adventures Luxury Cruises

2-hr Daily Whale and Dolphin Tours Year Round

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256 Harbor Dr S.
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Neighborhood: North Coastal
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8. City Cruises

Creating Amazing Experiences on San Diego Bay!

City Cruises
970 N Harbor Drive
San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 686-8715
Neighborhood: Downtown
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9. Ocean Connectors

Connecting youth for conservation.

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10. Flagship Cruises & Events

Cruising San Diego’s Waterfront Since 1915

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11. La Jolla Kayak

The Original Kayak Tour of The Seven Caves

La Jolla Kayak
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12. EverydayCalifornia.com

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13. H&M Landing

Deep Sea Fishing & Whale Watching-Since 1935

H&M Landing
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14. Another Side Of San Diego Tours

Voted #1 Tours on Trip Advisor in San Diego!

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15. Cabrillo National Monument

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(619) 523-4285
Neighborhood: Point Loma Peninsula

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