Point Loma

(2.9k reviews)

6.1 mi

Balboa Park is always such a great place to get away and enjoy a relaxing walk. There's just…read moresomething so calming about being here. The park is beautifully maintained, and everything feels clean and well cared for. The newly renovated botanical garden is especially peaceful and definitely worth visiting. It's also a great place to bring kids they'll love seeing the turtles, fish, and ducks around the park. There are plenty of vendor stands to check out as well, making it easy to spend a few hours exploring. Whether you're looking to unwind, enjoy nature, or spend quality time with family, Balboa Park is always a wonderful destination.

There are 16 museums in Balboa Park, so you can be there all day and not see all of them. They had…read moreart vendors selling their stuff outside. I noticed there wasn't any security around, and there was a lady without a top walking around near the bathrooms. The public bathroom was horrendous, but that is a given that it would be dirty. They didn't have soap. We went to the Japanese Friendship Garden for $16 and had an amazing time walking around. The parking was easy, and you can pay at the machine.

PostSecrets (artist invited people to write secrets on post cards, you could submit yours at the end too!)

Wedding at Balboa Park

Nativity Display

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Bayview Park

(66 reviews)

3.6 mi

I stumbled upon this little park while visiting Coronado Island for the first time and I am so glad…read moreI did. It was so serene and peaceful- the perfect spot to rest if you need some peace and quiet. We went on a weekday afternoon and there was only one other person there. The views are absolutely stunning. They have a few benches to sit down, but I would say bring a small blanket to lie down on the grass next to the water. We parked right across the street in the residential area. I would assume this place gets really busy on the weekends and parking might be tough. It's super worth a visit, even if you can only stop by for a minute to take in the views!

Such a great little park. Perfectly quiet in the morning and a superb place to pray and do…read moredevotions. Lovely benches and unobstructed views of the city. All types of waterfowl to enjoy. Easy parking and a joy to bike to. Bike paths all across Coronado make this a must see spot.

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Old Trolley Barn Neighborhood Park

(115 reviews)

7.7 mi

Great park with tons of grassy square footage and a wonderful playground, adequate shade trees…read morealso. Great for simply hanging out and letting the kids run and play. 4.5 stars, would be 5 stars if it had restrooms though.

I always have a positive experience at this clean and safe park filled with rich history. It's the…read moreperrrfect size for a neighborhood park.There's always something fun going on...a party...an event by local businesses...an activity from a FB group...a picnic since there's tables scattered around...a concert...you name it. The majority of the times, I'm people watching, walking, reading/relaxing, and/or taking nature pictures. It's sooo green with grass, trees and flowers. You'll see a beauuutiful view of Mission Valley. For the kiddos, there are playground with slides, swing set, and climbing. It's dog friendly too but have your fur babies on leash. The only down side is no public restrooms.

Scenic View

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Civita Park

4.6

(178 reviews)

8.4 mi

After hearing about this spot from a friend, I have always wanted to come. I was able to on a hot…read moreday, despite it being hot, it was also very windy (cool). I would recommend a light jacket-- of course depending on the day. They have clean restrooms with sinks to wash your hands outside, but no paper towels or drying station. They had many choices of where to sit, where to play, even tables to eat, and more. People rollerblading, skateboarding, yoga, playing soccer, this spot is full of life! I really enjoyed my time here as even the birds and butterflies were all flying around. I will happily come back to explore more of what this park has to offer.

Pros: Spacious, plenty of walking paths, with nice clean facilities, which include 2 family…read morebathrooms with baby diaper changing stations and several drinking fountains. There's also a row of small fountains for kids to play, run through and splash in. Cons: It's a really nice park ON A COOL DAY. Lately, with temperatures 10 to 19° above "normal average" - or maybe it's just the new normal - it's hard to recall the last time we got to experience a cool day. But here, the way the gazebos, tables, and benches are set up reflects a pretty severe case of denial that this is Southern California, and not quite within walking distance from the beach. It WILL get hot whenever it damn pleases, with or without notice. It did so in February already, in case you missed it. We came a few times for the farmers market. Both days were unfortunately " 80°F" her weather report, which in reality feels like 92°F, and we had to scramble to find a little bit of shade, so that we could eat our street food without passing out from heat stroke. We huddled awkwardly on the curb under a small tree. Other people passing by with food in their hands looked at us with envy. NOT A SINGLE PERSON sat on the readily available benches with tables, because they were in the blazing sun, yet lacked any shade. Never mind an umbrella, not even holes to put one in!! Denial much?? It's really sad, because it's a beautiful place. It just DESPERATELY needs more shade for the visitors to feel comfortable without clinging to trees or the bathroom walls.

Tunnel Mural

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Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

(1.2k reviews)

2.4 mi

i'm conflicted about this place. i love Point Loma, SO beautiful but i was shocked and kinda sad…read morethat kids are STILL jumping off the cliffs even though someone just got hurt here. We saw the lifeguards come and talk to them and they just waited and jumped anyway. SO dumb. but I guess that's what you do when you're young and foolish lol I'll try to post pics here. I don't have instagram bc i locked myself out of it! lol. Anyway it's really pretty here and def worth checking out.

We live by Pt. Loma and Sunset Cliffs is our go-to spot for a quick weekend walk. This is the…read moreperfect spot to watch the stunning California sunset and the ocean. It's even more beautiful in Spring! I knew about SC when I was living abroad and immediately fell in love then told myself that is where I'm gonna get married! I DID!! It's also a perfect spot for tide pooling. We found cute shells on the shore while exploring the cave. So if you see me, say hello!

It says unstable cliff but us humans don't listen! LOL

Great place for photo ops

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The Children's Park

(37 reviews)

4.5 mi

We enjoyed the park here! It had more people than usual when we play at parks but it was downtime…read moreand comic con weekend. Great play structures. Built with probably age 7+ in mind but my toddler was able to enjoy everything easily. The slides were metal but it didn't burn anyone going down. I was happy there was a good amount of shade! Bring your own food and snacks. Prices are ridiculous. The ice cream truck was $6 for an ice cream sandwich. Prices are not posted and I didn't have the heart to say nevermind and disappoint the kiddos. Great park!

This is more based on the dog park that's on the same lot as the Children's Park. This one uses…read moreturf, which i find has it's benefits on the days after a rainstorm since it doesn't get muddy. There are four big pine trees with separate retaining walls around three of them for owners to sit down. With it being so close to the bay, there's often a nice breeze that goes through the park. There's no divide between small dogs and big dogs, so it's best to just keep an eye on your dog, and many owners around here are usually respectful. The street parking immediately adjacent to the park is free, however, it has a limit of 30 minutes, and the parking meter workers are strict on it if they're around. I bring my dog here around lunch time because those who live/ work in the area tend to bring their dogs during their break time and my dog gets his socialization time. They close 8am-11am MWF for maintenance/ cleaning. Currently, both gates are broken so it's not as secure as it should be, and who knows when the city will actually fix it. There're a few agility structures and a water dispenser. The children's park itself looks pretty cool for kids with a lot of structures with slides and swings. There's also another separate area with fixed exercise equipment that looks well- maintained. The water feature in the park is a water feature, not a pool.

The Children's Park in Downtown, San Diego, CA

Where can you find a large art sculpture and the many areas made of wood and the climbing is for exercise.

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Childrens park one of the best educational parks and for the many structures you can have fun the whole day.

Waterfront Park

(320 reviews)

4.6 mi

Wow what a great park. We stopped by to check out the out the play ground, and there was also a…read morehuge panda event. Which resulted in the playground being loaded with children and families having fun and relaxing in the cool breeze. There are ton of play activities for the kids: blue climbing mountain with slides, cool spaceship looking merry go rounds, swings, climbing, obstacle courses, etc. There are tons of tables, benches, and lots of shady areas for picnics or relaxing while the kids play. It was awesome to find this playground ride down the road from where we were staying. Too bad this is our last full day in San Diego.

This is a big park with a lot of grass area, a fountain, basketball and pickle ball courts, plus an…read moreoff leash dog park. What more can you ask for? What about great views of the harbor and city skyline on the other side? Yup it has that too. I come here many times with my dogs, as the dog park is a decent size for medium dogs to run around in. The dog area may not have grass, but it has dirt, and is usually kept clean. I actually prefer the dirt compared to artificial turf. Something to note is that there is only one park, so big dogs are combined with small ones. Theres a small obstacle course for dogs to jump and run through. And for the humans, there's also a few benches on the side to sit at.

Playground

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Mission Bay Park

(328 reviews)

7.5 mi

My absolute favorite spot in San Diego to stay, play and enjoy the outdoors, restaurants and…read moreactivities!

This park is great for walking and one of the best places to play Pikmin bloom lol. Fire pits look…read morenice here and not competitive to get one. The bay brings in a nice breeze. I was walking here at night one day and none of the streetlights came on and it was pretty scary. I also think the bathroom situation is pretty grim.

Sunset

Restrooms

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Maruta Gardner Playground

(29 reviews)

6.0 mi

The most amazing park my toddler and I have ever had the pleasure of visiting- thus far!!!…read more As we were driving to Old Town, we passed by a few playgrounds prompting my little monster's request for some play time. After we were doing doing some basic tourist-y things, I hopped on Yelp in search of a few parks located withing the vicinity. Maruta Gardner Playgound seemed to be the most entertaining and appropriate for my wild child. Parking was plentiful and the size of this particular playground was great. Not only was the look and design very unique, you really couldn't ask for a better view. Seating was plentiful and again, the design of things were so cool. Shade is easily found and the play structure is great for children + adults of all ages. Lastly, there are restrooms and water fountain located not too far. Shout out to Ms. Maruta Gardner!! My daughter and I thank you because this place wouldn't have been possible without you. Your dedications and love for your community was undeniable. Thank you for beautifying everything around you and rest in paradise. 5/5 Stars!! Definitely a must if you are in San Diego!!

My kiddo loves obstacle course type playgrounds, par-core, all the things, so I googled what was…read morenear us and spotted this place. Soo cute in person, big playground, lots of space, grassy area to the little pond lake thing to walk around. Also the parking lot was really big lots of shade. We had a fun morning.

MARUTA GARDNER PLAYGROUND

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MARUTA GARDNER PLAYGROUND

Liberty Station NTC Park

4.6

(173 reviews)

3.5 mi

We're fortunate to be able to walk to all Liberty Station has to offer. ,…read more Dog walks along the water, shopping Trader Joe's or Vons, Sephora. My optometrist is there and the Scripps clinic takes walk-ins for lab work and other services. Tender Greens, Ikuru sushi is simple and very good. Liberty Public market has all kinds of food options, Con Pane for coffee, bread and yummy carbs! Solare for Michelin recommended Italian food. The Joan performing arts center is home to Cygnet Theater company now in its second season there, it's the perfect date night spot. Kayak rentals in the summer behind the hotels and events of all sorts at the Park - Every weekend there is something going on! Grateful to have all this in walking distance to our house !

Liberty Station NTC Park is a large neighborhood park which hosts local events and various kids…read moresports. The park, formally part of a naval training center, sits along an inlet of the San Diego Bay. Great views of downtown San Diego can be seen from the scenic walkway along the bay. Tropical vegetation lines the nicely paved and accessible walkway. I saw a few benches along the walkway to sit. I saw kid's soccer practice and people riding bikes and walking in the park. A local business offered paddle boarding with your dog for a fee. A coin show was advertised in the nearby convention center. The park is multifunctional. A footbridge is available that crosses over the small bay. I saw a building that had restrooms towards the center of the walkway. The park is a good place to run or walk. I walked to the park, so I'm not sure about parking. I noticed a little street parking.

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Waterfront Park

(320 reviews)

4.6 mi

Wow what a great park. We stopped by to check out the out the play ground, and there was also a…read morehuge panda event. Which resulted in the playground being loaded with children and families having fun and relaxing in the cool breeze. There are ton of play activities for the kids: blue climbing mountain with slides, cool spaceship looking merry go rounds, swings, climbing, obstacle courses, etc. There are tons of tables, benches, and lots of shady areas for picnics or relaxing while the kids play. It was awesome to find this playground ride down the road from where we were staying. Too bad this is our last full day in San Diego.

This is a big park with a lot of grass area, a fountain, basketball and pickle ball courts, plus an…read moreoff leash dog park. What more can you ask for? What about great views of the harbor and city skyline on the other side? Yup it has that too. I come here many times with my dogs, as the dog park is a decent size for medium dogs to run around in. The dog area may not have grass, but it has dirt, and is usually kept clean. I actually prefer the dirt compared to artificial turf. Something to note is that there is only one park, so big dogs are combined with small ones. Theres a small obstacle course for dogs to jump and run through. And for the humans, there's also a few benches on the side to sit at.

Playground

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The Children's Park

(37 reviews)

4.5 mi

We enjoyed the park here! It had more people than usual when we play at parks but it was downtime…read moreand comic con weekend. Great play structures. Built with probably age 7+ in mind but my toddler was able to enjoy everything easily. The slides were metal but it didn't burn anyone going down. I was happy there was a good amount of shade! Bring your own food and snacks. Prices are ridiculous. The ice cream truck was $6 for an ice cream sandwich. Prices are not posted and I didn't have the heart to say nevermind and disappoint the kiddos. Great park!

This is more based on the dog park that's on the same lot as the Children's Park. This one uses…read moreturf, which i find has it's benefits on the days after a rainstorm since it doesn't get muddy. There are four big pine trees with separate retaining walls around three of them for owners to sit down. With it being so close to the bay, there's often a nice breeze that goes through the park. There's no divide between small dogs and big dogs, so it's best to just keep an eye on your dog, and many owners around here are usually respectful. The street parking immediately adjacent to the park is free, however, it has a limit of 30 minutes, and the parking meter workers are strict on it if they're around. I bring my dog here around lunch time because those who live/ work in the area tend to bring their dogs during their break time and my dog gets his socialization time. They close 8am-11am MWF for maintenance/ cleaning. Currently, both gates are broken so it's not as secure as it should be, and who knows when the city will actually fix it. There're a few agility structures and a water dispenser. The children's park itself looks pretty cool for kids with a lot of structures with slides and swings. There's also another separate area with fixed exercise equipment that looks well- maintained. The water feature in the park is a water feature, not a pool.

The Children's Park in Downtown, San Diego, CA

Where can you find a large art sculpture and the many areas made of wood and the climbing is for exercise.

See all

Childrens park one of the best educational parks and for the many structures you can have fun the whole day.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

(1.2k reviews)

2.4 mi

i'm conflicted about this place. i love Point Loma, SO beautiful but i was shocked and kinda sad…read morethat kids are STILL jumping off the cliffs even though someone just got hurt here. We saw the lifeguards come and talk to them and they just waited and jumped anyway. SO dumb. but I guess that's what you do when you're young and foolish lol I'll try to post pics here. I don't have instagram bc i locked myself out of it! lol. Anyway it's really pretty here and def worth checking out.

We live by Pt. Loma and Sunset Cliffs is our go-to spot for a quick weekend walk. This is the…read moreperfect spot to watch the stunning California sunset and the ocean. It's even more beautiful in Spring! I knew about SC when I was living abroad and immediately fell in love then told myself that is where I'm gonna get married! I DID!! It's also a perfect spot for tide pooling. We found cute shells on the shore while exploring the cave. So if you see me, say hello!

It says unstable cliff but us humans don't listen! LOL

Great place for photo ops

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Coronado Center Beach

4.7

(743 reviews)

3.1 mi

What can I say that hasn't already been said about this beach? 5 stars and beyond…read more.. After the SD Writers Festival and then grabbing a slice and a beer on the main strip, I strolled over here to enjoy the last rays of the day. It is just gorgeous and breathtaking. I sat far back today, sitting on some rocks, ear buds in listening to my favorite playlist and just meditating while Mother Nature put on her beautiful sunset show for us. Come out here and enjoy the fun shops and restaurants nearby and spend some time with nature. Your heart and mind will thank you later.

Coronado is a nice place, and with spots like the beaches and the Hotel Del Coronado, it is…read morefantastic for a visit. Especially at sunrise or sunset. Enjoy my photos. There are spots all along the strand with paid parking, but you can find some free parking too, and it is not that far of a walk. The beaches are pristine and the views are second to none. Great spot to take visiting family and friends who want to get a taste of San Diego. They also get to experience the Coronado Bridge if you are driving over there. Highly recommend visiting if you get a chance.

Coronado Beach 4th Of July

Sunday Morning Beach walks with my girls #SDLiving :)

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Sugar Sweet Farm

5.0

(117 reviews)

25.6 mi

Our son Cruz has been going to Sugar Sweet Farm since he was 6 years old. Last summer, as he was…read moreapproaching 12, we thought it would probably be his final camp season. We were wrong. He signed up again this year, and when we picked him up today, he couldn't stop talking about all the fun he had--just like he did when he was 6. Seeing that kind of excitement after all these years truly melted our hearts. Now, Cruz is already looking forward to becoming a counselor one day. Elizabeth, Farmer Bubba, and the entire team are simply the best. You've created a place where kids make memories that last a lifetime. Parents, if you're looking for an incredible summer camp experience, Sugar Sweet Farm is the place to be. Thank you for all the memories.

I brought my 16month old nephew to here. We had so much fun and had an amazing day here…read more Sign up and sign the prior visit. Lots of animals and activities for kids. Turtle, chicken, snakes, lizards , dogs, bunny, horses, rabbits.. etc For activities; play grounds, face painting, art class, play room I would definitely bring him here again.

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SD Adventures

(423 reviews)

3.7 mi

We took the family out for the 75min ride. The employees provided great customer service. The team…read morewas friendly and organized. The jet skis were clean and ran well. They have lockers that you can use. The jet ski also has a waterproof compartment to put small items. Parking: Free 3 hour street parking Parking lot across from hotel is $10 Overall we had a great time!

This is my 3rd time renting for the Harbor Island location. We have always had a great time. The…read morestaff is professional and friendly. Id like to give a shout out to Wyatt for his comprehensive safety briefing and how to address any potential issues that may arise. The Sheraton Harbor Island is a great place to relax and have lunch after a time out on the bay. I highly recommend SD Adventures Harbor Island.

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Why does Yelp recommend reviews?

Hundreds of millions of reviews are posted on Yelp, and our automated recommendation software works in the background to showcase the reviews that it …

4 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Kasi M.

47

154

626

3 years ago

This location offers a wonderful opportunity for a leisurely stroll, rich in historical significance. My main focus was the lighthouse, and as a photographer, it's a must-capture moment for your gallery. Despite its popularity, the place tends to get quite crowded, making it a bit challenging to find a secluded spot for photography. However, the sheer beauty of the surroundings compensates for the bustling atmosphere. Be prepared for a brisk breeze - it's quite windy! Keep in mind that the day pass is priced at $20. Overall, a visit is well worth it for the captivating history and picturesque views, though you might want to strategize to capture those perfect shots amid the lively crowds. read more

Joel c.

0

6

0

15 years ago

Best trip ever!

Junn A.

26

48

150

13 years ago

Beautiful view!

Qype User (rmont9…)

0

12

0

18 years ago

Great views

Point Loma - parks - Updated August 2026

People who viewed Point Loma also viewed

La Jolla

(95 reviews)

LA JOLLA (hikes and beach) This place is BEAUTIFUL and…read moreabsolutely doable for a first time hike. It was super rewarding with great reviews, gets a little busy but overall decent parking and would totally go again!

I have a love and hate relationship with La Jolla!! La Jolla is that gorgeous friend who has…read moreperfect weather, eats clean, and somehow stays humble. Gosh, how annoying! LOL As a vegan, this area is paradise yet also pretentious! That can be overbearing with overpriced boutiques, jewelry stores, art galleries, and lots of plastic (IYKYK)! I do have my favorite spots. Trilogy Sanctuary is my absolute favorite spot! The rooftop cafe, the ocean views, the plant-based menu that makes you feel so nourished and amazing after. Food for your mind, body, and soul. A yogi's paradise! Try out their aerial yoga classes! There are also other vegan-friendly cafes around town. The beaches are breathtaking! La Jolla Cove has crystal clear water, dramatic cliffs, and sea lions who steal the show (especially for tourists). Windansea is quieter and scenic! Weather is perfect nine times out of ten since it's heyyy San Diego. Downtown La Jolla does have cute boutiques so it's fun to window shop because my wallet could never. Cafes all around as well. Outside downtown, there's chill neighborhoods, hidden beaches, and views that make you want to stay. The La Jolla Open Aire Farmers Market is a must for fresh produce and local treats before hitting the beach. Who doesn't love supporting local businesses?! Cons? Parking will test your patience. This area will draw tourist crowds so be prepared. Oh, and the sea lion smell is a nice surprise. hehe Overall, 4 stars! Amazing food if you know where to go, perfect weather, gorgeous beaches, fun wildlife, and a great farmers market!

Spanish Landing Park East

3.9

(35 reviews)

Three of the July 4, 2026 Big Boom Bay Fireworks can be seen from this spot…read more People were fishing, on picnic blankets, at food filled tables and lawn chairs for the spectacle. Be prepared for limited parking and traffic on nights like these.

It is hard to differentiate the East side of the park from the West side of the park, but I think I…read moredid it. I believe that the demarkation line is the parking lot in the middle, but I feel that it should be one park anyway. You will find this park near the airport. It has a decent sized metered lot and is a thin park that runs along the West Basin and is butted up against the west side of the park. It is rumored to be the site of the 1769 meeting of the Gaspar DePortola and Father Junípero Serra expeditions. It is very scenic and popular among joggers/walkers. This is the side of the park that you will find a restroom facility and the Cancer Survivor's Plaza. This is one of the better Cancer Survivor Plazas in the nation.. This area of the park also has picnic tables, and some green space suitable for a picnic, playing catch or other small field activities. There are a few trees that offer shade and you will also find a few benches that look out to the water here. The park seems relatively well maintained and clean. On a side note, there is an antennae by the restroom facility that is masterfully disguised asa tree. It is really nice and worth a look. This is a lovely park that has historical significance, in addition to providing some picturesque and scenic views. I wish parking was free here, but understand that may not be possible due its proximity to the airport. Because it sits in the shadow of the airport, the peacefulness of the park is also periodically disturbed by roaring planes taking off and landing. Most people that visit this park are either runners and bike riders. This is not a destination park, even though it appears that some people make a special trip here to visit the Cancer Survivor's Plaza.

Spanish Landing Park West

(21 reviews)

STUNNING views of the harbor and SO MANY activities, FISHING, bike trail, shade trees EVERYWHERE…read morewith picnic tables available. There are even these little holes in the concrete that turned out to be FISHING POLE HOLDERS! SO AWESOME!

Save on the Lyft and Uber airport surcharges and walk out here to be picked up…read more Pickup is at Spanish Landing East which is right across from Terminal 2. West is a bit further away.

La Jolla Hermosa Park

(7 reviews)

Small park, beautiful scenery. It looks more like a stop while hiking or biking, to smell the…read moreocean, and recharge the internal battery with a yummy picnic. They are 3 or 4 picnic tables, but they should have more as I can see there is a long space that appears semi-empty. No wonder this park is translated into Spanish more or less as The beautiful jewel..,because it is just wonderful. My recent discovery and can't wait to go back. I can't believe I had never been before when all you get there is good vibes and tranquil time! (Plus the views to the sea and the interesting shape of the park is also something different, plus the stairs!).

I am sunset lover, I always find it attractive. We were passing by and saw this park so we stopped…read moreand stayed there for sunset instead windansea beach. This is very near to windansea beach La Jolla. This place is vey quiet and you may find less crowded. The view is amazing. There is couple of benches to seat and see the sunset. By the time of sunset you may find a little crowed,might be the near residence. I felt I am just listing to waves and the birds. I love that king of places to just hear natures voices. The sunset looked amazing from here.

La Jolla Heights Open Space

(9 reviews)

La Jolla Heights Open Space encompasses a set of hiking trails in La Jolla Natural Park which is…read morejust east of the village. It's completely exposed so come with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The views to the west and north were spectacular as you ascend the slope. Not only do you get an up high perch overlooking La Jolla, but the ocean, cove, and bluffs in the backdrop make the vista even prettier. The trailhead was at an odd location in the middle of a looping neighborhood street, Al Bahr Drive. A sign with the words 'La Jolla Heights Open Space' at the top lets you know that you were at the beginning/bottom of the trail. You do need to park curbside at least a block or two away because Al Bahr Drive can't accommodate any parking. To begin the trek, you walk under some trees which was the only shaded area and then you emerge to begin climbing up the hill. The distance to reach the top was maybe one mile so it's not long at all. There were numerous side trails, and the main path became rocky at some points. Signage was non-existent, but as long as you kept heading eastward and upward, then you will be fine. Near the summit was a paved service road that led to La Jolla Reservoir which was fenced off. Definitely bring a camera and/or binoculars if you want to capture some moments. Other than the neighboring houses to the park, the Open Space was rather secluded.

La Jolla Natural Park is over 40 acres of chaparral that contains a lovely hiking trail on the…read morewestern side of Mount Soledad. The view of La Jolla Village and La Jolla Cove is awesome from here.

Crosby Park and Observation Pier

3.8

(6 reviews)

Great view of the Coronado bridge. Fish here often even though it says no fishing. It's not like…read moreima eat the damn things. Not with Nassco next door. Eat that fish and you're asking to get cancer. Seen a couple pop up raves at the end of the pier. Every once in a while a crack head pops up. Just mind ya business and they'll mind there's. And beware of the train that takes an hour to cross. Might just get stuck behind it. Don't waste your gas turn off your engine. Oh and sometimes you'll see the cops stop traffic on the bridge because of jumpers. Crazy stuff brah.

Super cool spot to chill out and relax. Crosby has a really nice view of the Coronado beach from a…read moredifferent perspective. You can do so many activities here and it's a really cool place to go with family or a loved one.

La Jolla Shores Park

(3 reviews)

We spent the day in LA JOLLA, beginning at Harry's Coffee Shop, then we went to the Children's Pool…read moreand the Birch Aquarium. We then spent the day at the LA JOLLA SHORES PARK BEACH!!! I spent the time back on the Cement Bench, guarding our supplies, AND VALUABLES!!! As I understood it, my Niece spent the majority of the time in the water, but also collecting sea shells. It was a great outing for the FOUR OF US!!!

La Jolla Shores Park is located just north of Kellogg Park, adjacent to the La Jolla Shores Beach…read more Free parking for the beach and parks in La Jolla Shores Park. It's a short walk to La Jolla Shores shops, bars, and restaurants. The Park is one of my favorite places for enjoying the waterfront in San Diego. The are public restrooms at the north end of the park, and more just south of Kellogg Park. The Park tends to be crowded on weekends and most days in the summer. Plan your visit for early in the day or later in the afternoon.

Florida Canyon

(24 reviews)

Balboa Park is laid out around canyons. Florida Canyon is one of them. I "discovered" it over a…read moredecade ago wandering down from the Desert Garden to a 2+ mile trail that loops through the canyon. It's an easy walk that can be done in an hour or so ... more if you stop and enjoy the desert species along the way. More adventurous, there are dozens of other trails of varying degrees of difficulty in the canyon. Best place to park (free) is across Park Blvd at the San Diego Zoo.

San Diego County Craft Brewery Road Trip Week!…read more When the beer nerd friend I homebrew with (& fellow Yelp Elite) planned a week vacation down in San Diego with the wife & kids, he asked if I might want to take that same week off & go down there too. Hmmm, a whole week of drinking beer at craft breweries all over San Diego County? Oh Hell yeah! While in town, I spent almost as much time trying to explore all the great outdoor places SD has to offer as I did exploring the beer scene. Almost (priorities). After reading reviews from a few Yelp Elite friends, I became interested in checking out Florida Canyon. I rolled out here on a warm Thursday morning. Having really gotten into trail running this year, Florida Canyon seemed right up my alley. It's a compact area with a good number of trails that zig & zag up & down both sides above Florida Dr. Though I only ran 2 miles, I still worked up a serious sweat. It was the heat. It got a lot warmer here than places I usually run up in NorCal. By degree of incline, the trails are moderately challenging. The trail surface itself is mostly smooth. No need for hardcore trail running shoes, street running shoes will do fine. After my quick run, I rehydrated with as much water as I had with me, which wasn't enough. It was obviously time to supplement my fluids with beer...

Switzer Canyon Open Space Park

3.6

(14 reviews)

Came here on a Thursday evening and thought it was bigger. But it's a smallish trail. We kept going…read morein and in and ended up in someone's backyard. There's no real markers to let you know when you're off and in someone's private property. Lots of rocks so if your ankle isn't the stabilize, this isn't the place for you. I entered through the maple and 28th entrance and walked alongside the golf course and then circled back to the trail.

After getting some food to-go in the South Park neighborhood, I walked a portion of the hiking…read moretrail in Switzer Canyon. It is one of many urban canyons within the city limits. This open space is adjacent to the golf course on the eastern edge of Balboa Park. The trailhead where I entered was at a cul de sac off 28th St. The trek from there going north and east toward 30th St was approximately a mile long. The trail followed a dry creek bed with plenty of small flat rocks as opposed to a smooth dirt path. With gentle sloping, it was friendly for pets and children so families who live nearby are fortunate to have this natural amenity for leisure or exercise. The temperature gradient was rather dramatic on the day of my hike. The trough areas were noticeably cooler by several degrees compared to the more elevated portions like at the trailhead. I read that one can walk six miles through Switzer Canyon. My journey only covered the western section, but the experience was sufficient to allow me to appreciate the contouring and views of the local landscape.

Ruocco Park