4 minute read
If you’re lucky enough to be sailing out of San Diego, you’ve already made a great decision. This vibrant city isn’t just a cruise port—it’s a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re flying in a day early or staying after your cruise, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences waiting for you.
Here are the best things to do in San Diego before your cruise—plus a few tips to help make the most of your pre-cruise adventure.
1. Visit the USS Midway Museum
One of the top attractions near the San Diego cruise terminal is the USS Midway Museum. This historic aircraft carrier turned museum sits right on the waterfront and offers an up-close look at naval aviation history. You can walk the flight deck, tour the crew quarters, and even climb into aircraft simulators. It’s a great way to spend a few hours—especially if you’re a fan of military history or looking for a unique activity before boarding your ship.
2. Stroll Through Seaport Village
Just a short walk from the cruise port, Seaport Village offers charming boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and picture-perfect views of the San Diego Bay. It’s the ideal spot for a casual pre-cruise lunch or souvenir shopping. Grab a coffee, people-watch along the promenade, or snap some photos before heading to the terminal.
3. Explore the Historic Gaslamp Quarter
Looking for nightlife, great food, or a dose of local culture? The Gaslamp Quarter delivers. This vibrant downtown district is filled with Victorian-era buildings, trendy bars, and top-rated restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for rooftop cocktails or a sit-down dinner before your cruise, this area has plenty of options—and it’s only a few minutes from the port.
4. 2 Hour Kayak Tour of 7 Caves
Start with a quick kayaking lesson and get outfitted with all the gear you need before heading out into the protected waters of the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. This unique area is home to three distinct marine habitats—rocky reefs, sandy flats, and vibrant kelp beds—all of which you’ll explore on your guided paddle.
The highlight of the tour is the famous seven sea caves of La Jolla, including a chance to enter Clam’s Cave, the largest and most dramatic of them all. Along the way, keep an eye out for sea lions, harbor seals, Garibaldi fish, harmless leopard sharks, and even the occasional dolphin.
5. Spend Time at Balboa Park
If you have several hours to spare, head over to Balboa Park—a cultural oasis featuring over a dozen museums, lush gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. You could easily spend a full day here, so if you have time before your cruise, this is one of the most rewarding places to explore.
6. Hit the Beach
San Diego’s beaches are legendary, and they’re accessible even if you only have a few hours. Coronado Beach, Mission Beach, and La Jolla Cove all offer something different—from soft sand and calm waves to dramatic cliffs and tide pools. If your cruise is the main event, a quick beach stop is the perfect San Diego appetizer.
7. Take a Harbor Cruise
Want to be on the water before you even set sail? Book a short San Diego harbor cruise. These sightseeing tours give you incredible views of the city skyline, the Navy fleet, sea lions, and more. They range from one-hour loops to two-hour narrated excursions, and most depart from the Embarcadero near the cruise terminal.
Where to Stay Before Your Cruise
If you’re flying into town or just want to arrive a day early to avoid stress, booking a hotel near the port is a smart move. I’ve put together a full guide to the Best Cruise Port Hotels in San Diego—with options that are walkable to the terminal, offer free shuttle service, or give you a waterfront view to kickstart your vacation.
Whether you’ve got a few hours or a full day, there’s no shortage of things to do in San Diego before your cruise. From historic ships and beach days to world-class dining and cultural sights, this coastal city is the perfect pre-cruise playground.