Background

El Campo Santo: A Historic Military Cemetery in San Diego

Explore El Campo Santo in San Diego: A serene military cemetery that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and heritage amidst beautiful surroundings.

★★★★★4.7 (48)

El Campo Santo is a serene military cemetery located in San Diego's Old Town, where history and tranquility coexist. This historic site offers tourists a glimpse into the past, showcasing the final resting places of many notable figures. A visit here is a reflective journey through San Diego's rich history and military heritage, making it an essential stop for history buffs and casual visitors alike.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to El Campo Santo

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
2410 San Diego Ave, San Diego, Old Town, California, 92110, US
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring El Campo Santo.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Visit early in the day to enjoy the quiet ambiance and avoid larger crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the historic gravestones.
Consider joining a guided tour to enhance your understanding of the cemetery's rich history.
Check local events, as El Campo Santo sometimes hosts special commemorative activities.

Discover more about El Campo Santo

El Campo Santo is a historic military cemetery nestled in the heart of Old Town San Diego, a vibrant area known for its rich history and cultural significance. Established in the mid-19th century, this tranquil site serves as the final resting place for many of San Diego’s early settlers, including notable figures who contributed to the region’s development. Visitors can stroll through the beautifully maintained grounds, where weathered headstones and monuments tell stories of the past, reflecting the diverse heritage of the area. The cemetery is not just a place of remembrance; it is also a beautiful park-like setting where tourists can enjoy a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Old Town. As you wander through El Campo Santo, take a moment to appreciate the unique architecture and artistry of the gravestones, many of which are adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. The cemetery’s serene atmosphere is enhanced by the surrounding trees and gardens, making it an ideal spot for quiet reflection or a leisurely walk. Guided tours are available, providing insightful commentary on the cemetery's history and the lives of those buried here. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, El Campo Santo offers a unique glimpse into San Diego's past and its military heritage, making it an essential destination for tourists visiting the area.

Explore places near El Campo Santo

    See all →

    Unlock the Best of El Campo Santo

    Find tickets, tours with entry, and experiences available for this location.

    Buy tickets

    No tickets available

    Book tours with entry

    No tours with entry available

    Book tours without entry

    No tours without entry available

    Getting There

    Ferry

    Start at the Coronado Ferry Landing, located at 1201 1st St, Coronado, CA 92118. Board the ferry to San Diego, which will take approximately 15 minutes. Enjoy beautiful views of the San Diego skyline during your ride. Once you arrive at the San Diego terminal, exit the ferry.

    Public Transportation

    After exiting the ferry in San Diego, walk to the nearest bus stop, which is located at 1050 N Harbor Dr. From there, take bus number 8 towards 'Hillcrest'. Stay on the bus for about 15 minutes and get off at the stop for 'San Diego Ave & Juan St'. From the bus stop, walk approximately 5 minutes east on San Diego Ave until you reach El Campo Santo at 2410 San Diego Ave.

    Walking

    If you prefer to walk after taking the ferry, exit at the San Diego terminal and head towards the Old Town area. Walk north along the waterfront past the Maritime Museum, then turn left on W Harbor Dr. Continue straight until you reach San Diego Ave. Turn right and walk for about 20 minutes to reach El Campo Santo at 2410 San Diego Ave.

    A brief summary to El Campo Santo

    Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.

    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    File:Hotel Del Coronado Drone Picture Turf Lawn.jpg - Wikipedia

    More about Coronado

    Explore Coronado, California: A charming island city with pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and a vibrant arts scene, perfect for relaxing and adventure-filled getaways.

    Tell me more about Coronado

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.