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Get out and play

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!

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San Diego International Auto Show

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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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Christmas Eve Dinner Cruise

Dec 24, 2024

Light up your Christmas Eve with a special dining cruise on San Diego Bay. On Tuesday, December 24, 2024, join us aboard a decorated yacht adorned with lights and holiday decor. While you cruise past the sparkling city skyline, we’ll prepare a holiday dinner in our onboard galley. After you dine, enjoy music on the dance floor and more sightseeing from the open-air observation deck. Create magical memories with family and friends and experience Christmas Eve like never before.

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Christmas Day Dining Cruise

Dec 25, 2024

See what makes Christmas in San Diego so special. Scenic sights and festive seasonal flavors will be in abundance aboard Flagship’s Christmas Cruise on Wednesday, December 25, 2024. Make your holiday merry and bright with a glass of complimentary boarding champagne, holiday music and decorations, and Flagship's famous service, crafted to enhance your Christmas experience. Become a part of our tradition of celebrating life's magical moments. Savor a luxurious dinner while cruising the picturesque San Diego Bay.

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Tim Flannery & the Lunatic Fringe Perform Live

Dec 21, 2024

Maritime Museum of San Diego is proud to welcome back Tim Flannery Saturday, December 21st 7:30-10:00 p.m. The beloved former San Diego Padres player, MLB broadcaster, and show announcer turned musician and philanthropist has performed his annual holiday concert aboard the Star of India for over 20 years. Backed by his ace band, the Lunatic Fringe, his songs come to life in a dynamic blend of bluegrass, country, and rock. This year Tim will be joined also by a few special guests. This concert is for 21+ guests only.

His ace band, the Lunatic Fringe, brings his songs roaring to life in various musical genres like bluegrass, country, and rock. Flan has three World Series Championship rings as a third-base coach with the San Francisco Giants, and he has released fifteen albums of original music over the years. 

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Tours & Sightseeing

$5 off | Narrated Harbor Tours

Flagship Cruises & Events
Valid: Nov 4 - Dec 31, 2024

Save $5 on any narrated 1 or 2 hour harbor tour. Good for up to six (6) full fare adult tickets. Use Coupon Code at Checkout: SDTABAYTOUR5

Activity

75-minute Naval History Bay Tour Only $15***

Maritime Museum of San Diego
Valid: Aug 19 - ongoing

Join us at the Maritime Museum of San Diego for a high-speed 75-minute narrated Naval History Tour! The US Naval Vietnam-era PCF 816 Swift Boat Listed In National Register Of Historic Places is...

Accommodation

San Diego Zoo 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...

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