San Diego Waterfront: A Coastal Gem for Tourists
Discover the enchanting San Diego Waterfront, where stunning views, rich history, and lively experiences await every traveler.
The San Diego Waterfront is a vibrant and scenic destination that offers tourists a perfect blend of stunning views, rich history, and a lively atmosphere. With its beautiful promenades, bustling shops, and various dining options, this waterfront area is a must-visit for anyone exploring San Diego.
A brief summary to San Diego Waterfront
- The, San Diego, Downtown San Diego, CA, 92101, US
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and beautiful sunrise views.
- Check the local calendar for events and festivals happening during your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning waterfront views and vibrant street performances.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the best way to explore is on foot.
- Take advantage of the waterfront dining options for fresh seafood and local cuisine.
Getting There
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Trolley
From Tijuana, head to the San Ysidro Transit Center. You can walk there from the border crossing (about 10-15 minutes). Once at the transit center, buy a ticket for the San Diego Trolley. Board the Blue Line heading towards 'America Plaza'. The ride will take approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the 'Convention Center' stop. From there, walk towards the waterfront, which is just a few blocks away. You will see signs directing you towards the waterfront area.
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Bus
Start from the border and walk to the San Ysidro Bus Terminal. Take the bus line 225 towards 'Downtown San Diego'. This bus ride will take about 20-30 minutes. Get off at the stop closest to the Gaslamp Quarter. From there, it’s a short walk to the waterfront. Head south on 5th Avenue until you reach the waterfront area.
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Taxi or Rideshare
After crossing the border, you can take a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft. Simply tell the driver to take you to 'San Diego Waterfront'. The drive will take about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Make sure to have your passport ready for the border crossing.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and want to walk, you can take the pedestrian bridge at the San Ysidro border crossing. Once you enter San Diego, walk towards the nearest trolley station (about 15 minutes). From there, you can catch the trolley heading towards 'America Plaza' and get off at 'Convention Center'. Then, walk a few blocks towards the waterfront.
Discover more about San Diego Waterfront
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Punta de los Muertos HISTORICAL MARKER
0.6 km
Explore La Punta de los Muertos, a pivotal historical landmark in San Diego, revealing the rich tapestry of the city's cultural heritage.
La Punta de los Muertos
0.7 km
Explore La Punta de los Muertos in San Diego, a historical landmark that offers stunning ocean views and a glimpse into the city's rich maritime heritage.
Seaport Village
0.8 km
Explore the enchanting Seaport Village in San Diego, where shopping, dining, and stunning waterfront views create an unforgettable experience for tourists.
Little Italy Street Sign
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant Italian culture of Little Italy, San Diego, where culinary delights and charming streets await every visitor.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1.0 km
Discover the architectural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Downtown San Diego, a must-visit spiritual landmark.
Piazza Basilone
1.1 km
Explore Piazza Basilone, a serene memorial park in Downtown San Diego honoring American heroism with beautiful landscapes and rich history.
Amici House
1.1 km
Discover the Italian heritage of San Diego at Amici House, a cultural center that highlights the rich history and traditions of the Italian community.
Louis J. Wilde Monument
1.1 km
Explore the Louis J. Wilde Monument, a historical landmark in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, showcasing the city's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Gaslamp Quarter
1.2 km
Discover the Gaslamp Quarter, a historic and vibrant district in San Diego, known for its stunning architecture, diverse dining, and exciting nightlife.
WNDR Museum
1.3 km
Explore the WNDR Museum in San Diego for an unforgettable experience where art meets technology, located in the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter.
Gaslamp Quarter - The Historic Heart Of San Diego
1.3 km
Discover the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego's historic center brimming with Victorian charm, vibrant nightlife, and culinary delights.
Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House Museum
1.3 km
Explore the Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House for an unforgettable glimpse into San Diego's rich history and vibrant cultural heritage.
Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation
1.3 km
Explore the Gaslamp Quarter's rich history at the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation, where architecture and tales of the past come alive.
Yuma Building
1.3 km
Explore the Yuma Building in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, a historic landmark showcasing the city's architectural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Martin Luther King Jr Promenade
1.3 km
Explore the Martin Luther King Jr Promenade in San Diego for a serene stroll filled with art, history, and stunning waterfront views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Coronado Ferry Terminal
0.1 km
Explore San Diego's stunning waterfront with a scenic ferry ride to Coronado Island, where adventure and relaxation await.
San Diego Harbor
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking San Diego Harbor, a vibrant hub of culture, dining, and stunning coastal views in Southern California.
Flagship Cruises & Events
0.1 km
Explore the beauty of San Diego with Flagship Cruises & Events, offering unforgettable boat tours and whale watching experiences on the stunning Pacific Ocean.
San Diego Visitor Information Center
0.1 km
Discover San Diego's best experiences at the Visitor Information Center - your go-to hub for local insights and adventure planning.
City Cruises San Diego Whale Watching & Harbor Tours
0.1 km
Embark on unforgettable whale watching and harbor tours in San Diego, where ocean adventures and stunning views await every traveler.
Navy Pier
0.1 km
Experience the beauty and excitement of Navy Pier in San Diego, where stunning views meet unforgettable ferry adventures and delightful dining.
Broadway Pier
0.2 km
Discover the charm of Broadway Pier, a vibrant waterfront destination in San Diego, offering stunning views, exciting events, and a taste of local culture.
Embarcadero
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant Embarcadero in San Diego, a stunning waterfront destination perfect for relaxation, dining, and cultural exploration.
USS Midway Museum
0.3 km
Experience the awe of naval history at the USS Midway Museum, a premier maritime museum in San Diego featuring aircraft displays and immersive exhibits.
Public Art "The Homecoming"
0.3 km
Discover 'The Homecoming' in San Diego, a stunning public art installation that embodies the spirit of community and reunion.
Santa Fe Plaza
0.4 km
Explore Santa Fe Plaza: A vibrant park in downtown San Diego filled with art, culture, and community events, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
Tuna Harbor Park
0.4 km
Discover Tuna Harbor Park, a serene waterfront escape in San Diego, blending nature, art, and breathtaking views of the bay.
Five Star Tours & Charter Bus Company
0.4 km
Experience the best of San Diego with Five Star Tours & Charter Bus Company, your trusted partner for unforgettable travel adventures in California.
Unconditional Surrender
0.4 km
Explore the Unconditional Surrender sculpture in San Diego, a powerful tribute to love and joy at the end of World War II, set against a stunning bay backdrop.
Public Art "Embracing Peace"
0.4 km
Experience tranquility at 'Public Art Embracing Peace' in Downtown San Diego, a stunning cultural landmark perfect for reflection and photography.
Essential places to dine
Seneca Trattoria
0.1 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Northern Italy at Seneca Trattoria in Downtown San Diego – where exquisite cuisine meets stunning bay views.
Animae
0.3 km
Experience exceptional Asian fusion cuisine at Animae in Downtown San Diego—where tradition meets innovation in fine dining.
TopSail
0.4 km
Discover TopSail: An exquisite waterfront restaurant in San Diego offering fresh cuisine and stunning views of the harbor.
Top of the Market - San Diego
0.4 km
Discover fine dining at Top of the Market in San Diego—where fresh seafood meets stunning bay views for an unforgettable culinary experience.
The Lion's Share
0.6 km
Experience the eclectic flavors of America at The Lion's Share in Downtown San Diego—where innovative cuisine meets vibrant nightlife.
Puesto At The Headquarters
0.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Puesto At The Headquarters in Downtown San Diego - where every meal is a celebration.
Ironside Fish & Oyster
0.9 km
Experience the best of San Diego's seafood scene at Ironside Fish & Oyster - fresh oysters, coastal cuisine, and vibrant ambiance await!
Bronze Bird
0.9 km
Experience the best of Californian breakfast cuisine at Bronze Bird in San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter.
Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine infused with French and Italian influences at Dobson's Bar & Restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Tapas & Beers | French and Spanish Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience a fusion of French and Spanish cuisines at Tapas & Beers in San Diego's lively Gaslamp Quarter.
The Westgate Room Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience culinary excellence at The Westgate Room Restaurant in Downtown San Diego - where local flavors meet elegant dining.
Born and Raised
1.1 km
Discover culinary excellence at Born and Raised - San Diego's premier steakhouse offering exquisite cuts of meat in a luxurious setting.
GlassDoor Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors in the heart of San Diego at GlassDoor Restaurant—where delicious food meets vibrant culture.
Kettner Exchange
1.1 km
Discover Kettner Exchange: Where American cuisine meets a vibrant pub atmosphere in the heart of San Diego.
Asti Ristorante
1.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Asti Ristorante in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter—where every meal feels like a journey to Italy.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Wheelhouse Gift Shop
0.0 km
Discover unique souvenirs and tasty snacks at Wheelhouse Gift Shop, your ideal stop in San Diego's vibrant harbor area.
Great Souvenirs Of San Diego,inc
0.6 km
Explore Great Souvenirs of San Diego, a delightful shop offering unique keepsakes and local crafts that capture the essence of this beautiful city.
Urban Beach House
0.6 km
Explore Urban Beach House in Downtown San Diego for stylish surf gear and beachwear that embody the Southern California lifestyle.
Madison San Diego Boutique
0.7 km
Explore Madison San Diego Boutique for unique gifts, fashion accessories, and local artistry in the heart of Downtown San Diego.
Urban Girl
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish women's clothing at Urban Girl, the perfect shopping spot in Downtown San Diego for trendy souvenirs.
Bay Company
0.9 km
Explore the Bay Company in Downtown San Diego for unique souvenirs and local crafts, capturing the essence of your visit.
Eclectique Boutique
0.9 km
Explore Eclectique Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and trendy accessories that capture the essence of California.
Vitreum
1.1 km
Explore Vitreum, San Diego's unique gift shop offering locally crafted treasures and artisanal gifts that capture the city's vibrant spirit.
Rosamariposa
1.1 km
Explore Rosamariposa, a charming gift shop in Downtown San Diego, offering unique treasures that capture the essence of local artistry and culture.
Dream Boutique
1.2 km
Explore Dream Boutique in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter for unique women's fashion, jewelry, and art that celebrates local creativity.
San Diego Trading Company
1.3 km
Explore San Diego Trading Company for unique gifts and souvenirs embodying the vibrant spirit of California in the heart of Gaslamp Quarter.
IT'SUGAR
1.4 km
Explore IT'SUGAR in San Diego - a candy wonderland offering an irresistible array of sweets and quirky gifts in the lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Gaslamp Garage
1.5 km
Explore Gaslamp Garage in San Diego for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and fun souvenirs that capture the essence of the city.
Stroll
1.5 km
Explore Stroll Boutique in Downtown San Diego for unique fashion and gifts that embody the coastal charm of California.
Wotown Vintage
1.5 km
Explore Wotown Vintage in San Diego: A unique fusion of vintage clothing, local art, and skate culture awaits you.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
False Idol
0.7 km
Discover False Idol, a tiki bar in San Diego offering exotic cocktails and an immersive island atmosphere that delights every visitor.
Star Bar
1.2 km
Discover the excitement of Star Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where karaoke and sports come together for an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Gaslamp Tavern
1.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Gaslamp Tavern, where great food and sports combine in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
The Shout! House
1.2 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at The Shout! House, a dueling piano bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, with live music, delicious food, and crafted drinks.
The Whiskey House
1.2 km
Discover The Whiskey House, San Diego's premier bar offering an unparalleled selection of whiskey, gourmet food, and a vibrant atmosphere for all occasions.
The Tipsy Crow
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Crow, a top bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering drinks, bites, and unforgettable memories.
Vin de Syrah
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting Vin de Syrah, a premier wine bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, offering exquisite wines and an inviting atmosphere.
Whiskey Girl
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Whiskey Girl, a top sports bar and live music venue in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter.
Trailer Park After Dark
1.3 km
Discover the quirky charm of Trailer Park After Dark, a unique bar and restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter offering creative cocktails and delicious food.
Prohibition Lounge
1.3 km
Discover the enchanting Prohibition Lounge in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, where vintage charm meets modern mixology and live music.
Room 56
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Room 56, San Diego's top cocktail bar, featuring innovative drinks and a stylish atmosphere.
The Smoking Gun SD
1.4 km
Experience a unique blend of grill and bar culture at The Smoking Gun SD in San Diego's lively Gaslamp Quarter.
Happy Does Bar
1.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Happy Does Bar in San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter – perfect for drinks, delicious food, and fun nights out.
Fifth & Rose
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Fifth & Rose, a chic cocktail bar in the Gaslamp Quarter, offering expertly crafted drinks.
The Nolen
1.5 km
Experience breathtaking views and innovative cocktails at The Nolen rooftop bar in downtown San Diego, where every sip is a delight.
