Explore San Diego Sustainably

La Jolla Shores

San Diego’s beaches are legendary — and many are being actively protected to stay that way. At La Jolla Shores and environs, the Matlahuayl State Marine Reserve offers calm waters perfect for kayaking and snorkeling. Paddle with sea lions, garibaldi, and leopard sharks, but always keep a respectful distance — the area’s no-touch, no-feed policy helps protect delicate ecosystems.

Torrey Pines

Farther north, Torrey Pines State Beach and Natural Reserve blends dramatic sandstone cliffs with a rare coastal pine forest. Trails wind above the Pacific, revealing sweeping views and glimpses of migrating gray whales offshore. Stick to marked trails to preserve fragile bluff habitats — and be sure to pack out whatever you bring in. (Note: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has limited access through February 2026 due to construction.)

Silver Strand and Coronado

For a quieter coastal experience, head south to Silver Strand State Beach or Coronado Beach, where clean-sand initiatives and waste-free facilities keep the shoreline pristine. Many beach areas have refillable water stations and recycling bins, making it easy to enjoy the coast with minimal impact.

Pro tip: Bring your own reef-safe sunscreen. It protects your skin — and marine life — from harmful chemicals.

Mission Trails

Beyond its beaches, San Diego’s natural landscape is a playground for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. At Mission Trails Regional Park, more than 8,000 acres of open space offer over 60 miles of trails — from the summit of Cowles Mountain to the peaceful oak-shaded paths near the Old Mission Dam. The park’s interpretive center also teaches visitors about the area’s Kumeyaay heritage and native ecosystems.

Los Peñasquitos

Los Peñasquitos Canyon Preserve is another local favorite — an easy, mostly flat trail system where you’ll find a waterfall, riparian woodlands, and more than 500 native plant species. Birders love this spot for its diversity; more than 175 species have been recorded here.

Torrey Pines

Over in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, hiking feels more like meditation. Short loops like Guy Fleming Trail or Razor Point Trail offer stunning vistas, and early morning visits often mean spotting pelicans gliding over the ocean in golden light. (Note: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has limited access through February 2026 due to construction.)

Bayshore Bikeway

Cyclists can also explore sustainably on the Bayshore Bikeway, a 24-mile scenic loop connecting Coronado, Chula Vista, and downtown San Diego. It’s one of the region’s most eco-friendly adventures — and you’ll get spectacular views of the bay along the way.

Balboa Park

Sustainability in San Diego isn’t limited to nature — it thrives in the heart of the city, too. Balboa Park, one of the nation’s largest urban parks, is a model of conservation and cultural connection. Its gardens showcase native and drought-tolerant plants, its museums feature eco-focused exhibits, and its walkable design encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy.

Stroll through the Japanese Friendship Garden, visit the San Diego Natural History Museum to learn about regional biodiversity, or rent an e-bike to explore the park’s leafy trails. Even its dining options lean local, with cafés sourcing produce from nearby farms.

Downtown and Environs

Downtown, Seaport Village and the Embarcadero have expanded green spaces and bike paths that invite visitors to experience the waterfront without cars. And across the city, the MTS Trolley system offers a clean, efficient way to reach attractions such as Old Town, the San Diego Zoo, and beaches — all while reducing your carbon footprint.

Birch Aquarium

For ocean lovers, San Diego’s marine world is unforgettable — and increasingly protected. The Birch Aquarium at Scripps offers a window into the Pacific, with exhibits on coral conservation, kelp forests, and ocean science from the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography. The facility runs entirely on renewable energy and focuses on public education around climate action.

Eco-Tours

Head outdoors on a guided eco-tour. Companies such as Everyday California in La Jolla and Hike Bike Kayak lead small-group experiences that prioritize safety, respect for wildlife, and environmental education. Many even donate a portion of proceeds to local conservation efforts.

Cabrillo Tidepools

At low tide, visit the Cabrillo National Monument tidepools — a mesmerizing world of sea stars, crabs, and anemones. Rangers here remind visitors to tread lightly: one careless step can damage an entire micro-habitat.

Cuyamaca and Anza-Borrego

San Diego’s biodiversity doesn’t stop at the coast. Drive east and you’ll discover Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, where oak and pine forests shelter deer, foxes, and countless bird species. Or venture farther to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, a certified Dark Sky destination and one of California’s most stunning examples of arid beauty.

Desert Wildflowers

In spring, wildflowers transform the desert floor into a sea of color — a fragile, short-lived spectacle best enjoyed with care: stay on trails, avoid picking plants, and take only photos.

Sustainability in San Diego isn’t about doing less — it’s about doing better. Whether you’re kayaking beside sea lions, biking the bay, or exploring native gardens in Balboa Park, every mindful choice contributes to the health of the region’s landscapes and communities. 

As more travelers look to connect deeply with the places they visit, San Diego continues to lead by example — proving that adventure and environmental care can thrive side by side. So grab your sunscreen, your sense of wonder, and your reusable bottle — and get ready to explore sustainably under the San Diego sun.