The Best Things to Do in San Diego on a Budget
Visiting San Diego on a budget is easy when there are so many free and affordable things to do. From beach bliss to exciting hikes to sports sensations, a trip to San Diego can fill the memory banks without breaking the bank.
Free Beach Fun
Free Beach Fun
Any visit to San Diego has to take in the region's beautiful and world-renowned beaches. The San Diego region hugs the Pacific coast for nearly 70 miles, from Coronado to Oceanside, which means there’s a beach for everyone somewhere along that glittering stretch of shore.
A few must-visit beach spots? For gentle waves and a chic beachside town, La Jolla Shores should be at the top of your list. Experienced surfers will likely want to test the waters at Swami’s Beach in Encinitas, known for its world-class reef break. Families might prefer the still waters of Mission Bay, perfect for kids to play in the sand and search for seashells. And for those who prefer to stay on shore and watch great surfing action, Windansea Beach in La Jolla is ideal.
Rad Road Trips
Rad Road Trips
For those who want to savor the beauty of the region on a road trip, take a drive to Torrey Pines for beach views like the ones you see in the movies. Follow North Torrey Pines Road up the coast and you’ll get the beach vibe without the sand in your shoes. You can visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for a modest day-use fee and enjoy spectacular trails, or stroll the beach for free and enjoy public art in the northern part of the reserve.
While you’re in the area, check out the Torrey Pines Gliderport. There, you can watch expert paragliders (and first-timers paired with pros) soar above a stunning background of open waters and a sandy coastline. Parking, admission and spectating at the Torrey Pines Gliderport are all free of charge.
For a longer car cruise, try the 59-mile scenic drive that starts in Downtown San Diego and loops drivers around classic spots such as Point Loma, Mount Soledad, Balboa Park, Old Town and more.
Biking on a Budget
Biking on a Budget
If cycling is your thing, plan to stop in Pacific Beach and rent a bike for the afternoon. There are many options for bike rentals, but prices generally stay around $25 for the day. Renting by the hour is another way to cut costs. With three miles of beach in the neighborhood, spending the day cycling around PB is a perfect SoCal experience.
Highlight-Reel Hikes
Highlight-Reel Hikes
San Diego also boasts famous coastal hiking trails, including the Scripps Coastal Meander in La Jolla and Annie’s Canyon Trail in Solana Beach. But did you know there’s another popular hike that takes you across San Diego’s many historic urban bridges?
Aptly named the 7 Bridges Hike, this 5-mile route starts at the Park Boulevard Bridge in Balboa Park and takes hikers across spans including the Cabrillo Bridge (with great views of Downtown), the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge and more. The trail ends at the George Street Bridge in the Hillcrest/North Park area, ideal for quenching your thirst after a hike with a trendy iced matcha or an ice-cold craft beer.
Sports Sensations
Sports Sensations
If sports are more your scene, consider catching a San Diego Padres game at Petco Park, called the No. 1 MLB ballpark in America by USA Today. Attending a weekday home game can be surprisingly affordable. For about $30 a ticket, you can sit in the ballpark’s sprawling Gallagher Square, a more relaxed way to enjoy the game, and enjoy the views of the San Diego skyline while you take in the game.
Or, if you want to support a women's sports team at a cool new stadium, the San Diego Wave FC plays at Snapdragon Stadium, and general admission tickets can be as low as $25 during the week.