BlogSan Diego Staff Picks

Discover Things to Do in San Diego as a Solo Traveler

Who says vacations are just for families or couples? One of the best ways you can recharge your batteries is by setting off on a trip for one. For those looking to plan a solo getaway to San Diego, there’s no better place to call home than InterContinental San Diego. Our waterfront town is surrounded by some of the best things to do in San Diego. In fact, some of the most popular adventures are always a good time, no matter how many people you’re traveling with.

Cast Your Line Fishing in San Diego

When you think of aquatic adventures to enjoy on a San Diego getaway, you probably think of sailing tours and surfing. However, the waters off the coast of this California town are home to countless things to do. When planning your next visit to InterContinental San Diego, spend a fun day out on the water fishing with a local San Diego charter.

Where to Find the Best Ice Cream in San Diego

San Diego’s endless sunshine means you can spend countless hours outside exploring all this town has to offer. Whether seeing what popular movie filming locations you can find near InterContinental San Diego or spending a day in Old Town, there’s no shortage of things to do. If you need a minute to cool down, treat yourself to something sweet by visiting some of the best ice cream shops in San Diego.

A Guide to the Best Beaches in San Diego

There’s no better way to spend a perfect summer day than at the beach. For those planning a getaway to InterContinental San Diego, there’s no shortage of sandy shoreline to explore. To help you plan your day of sand and sun, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best beaches in San Diego.

Whether your perfect beach day is relaxing with a good book or out in the water, the beaches near our San Diego hotel are well-suited for everyone. Keep reading to learn more about where to go.

Spend a Day Exploring Things to Do in Old Town San Diego

As you begin planning your stay at InterContinental San Diego, you will quickly discover there are plenty of things to do and see. San Diego is home to several unique areas and neighborhoods ripe for exploration. In addition to well-known spots like the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and Seaport Village, there are several other areas to explore. During your next visit, leave room in your itinerary to discover some of the memorable things to do in Old Town San Diego.

A Guide to the Best Hikes in San Diego

Thanks to its idyllic weather, it should come as no surprise that some of the best things to do in San Diego take place outside. As you start planning your next stay at InterContinental San Diego, make sure your itinerary includes various activities on land and sea. Discover some of the stunning scenery this region has to offer by exploring some of the best hikes in San Diego. 

The variety of trails near our San Diego means there’s something for everyone. Whether you are an experienced hiker looking to be out all day or a family looking for something suitable for their young children, you can find a hiking adventure right for you. To help you plan your outing, we’ve made a list of some of the best hikes in San Diego.

Discover Some of the Best Breweries in San Diego

After a day spent exploring some of San Diego's best adventures, there’s nothing better than relaxing. One excellent way to do just that is curling up in the comfort of your room at InterContinental San Diego. However, if you’re not quite ready to return to your home base, another option is checking out some of the best breweries in San Diego.

Sometimes, nothing beats sipping on a craft beer while decompressing after a day of fun. For those staying at our luxury downtown, there are plenty of exceptional breweries nearby to visit. Whether hopping between multiple spots or sticking to trying a new place every night, you’ll never run out of options.

A Guide to Exploring Seaport Village in San Diego

Thanks to its location, it doesn’t take long to reach some of the most popular San Diego attractions when staying at InterContinental San Diego. This luxury bayfront hotel is minutes from places like Balbo Park, the Gaslamp District, and more. For a fun day of exploring, grab a coffee from our on-site coffee shop and walk over to Seaport Village, one of the best shopping destinations in San Diego.

Where to Find the Best Sushi in San Diego

Not only is San Diego the ideal vacation destination for anyone who loves the sand and surf, but it’s also a great option for foodies. Home to world-class restaurants, InterContinental San Diego is also close to endless food options that will please even the pickiest eaters. No matter what you’re craving, there’s a restaurant nearby that can satisfy it, including some of the best sushi spots in San Diego

Discover Stunning Flora at a San Diego Area Garden

San Diego is known for its breathtaking waterfront. However, there are endless picturesque sights to take in when visiting the California town. For anyone planning a stay at InterContinental San Diego, there are countless picturesque places to visit, including a San Diego garden or two. 

San Diego’s mild climate and copious sunshine mean plants thrive here. Numerous gardens throughout town showcase Mother Nature’s beauty. Keep reading to learn more about some of our favorite San Diego gardens.

Discover Things to Do When Spending Time in Chula Vista

Nestled on the San Diego Bay, InterContinental San Diego is the perfect home base for travelers looking to get out and explore. The sophisticated hotel is close to countless San Diego landmarks, including the USS Midway, Petco Park, and Balboa Park. You’ll also only be a short drive away from other popular coastal California towns. On your next visit, set off on a day trip and see how many memorable things to do in Chula Vista you can find.

A Guide to the Best Tours in San Diego

There’s no shortage of things to see on a San Diego vacation. While you can certainly explore on your own, one of the best ways to take it all in is on guided excursions. From outings on land and sea, there are plenty of options to choose from during your stay at InterContinental San Diego. Keep reading to learn more about some of the different tours in San Diego you can embark on.

The Best Indoor San Diego Activities for a Rainy Day

While California is known for countless days of sunshine, Mother Nature sometimes puts a damper on things. However, a rainy day doesn’t have to mean you have to sacrifice having fun. For travelers staying at InterContinental San Diego, there are plenty of things to do that won’t have you getting rained on. Keep reading to learn about some of the best indoor San Diego activities.

Sip on Local Spirits at a San Diego Distillery

From checking out memorable free activities to exploring a local art museum, there’s no shortage of adventures in San Diego. The best way to enjoy as many of them as possible is by booking your stay at a centrally located hotel. InterContinental San Diego is found along the bayfront and is minutes from some of the top attractions. For anyone on an adults-only getaway, a fun addition to any itinerary is a self-guided San Diego distillery tour.

How to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in San Diego

There’s no better way to celebrate all you have accomplished this year than by planning a final vacation for the year. Time your stay at InterContinental San Diego right, and you can enjoy all the New Year’s Eve festivities the California town has to offer. From kid-friendly events to parties going late into the night, there’s something for everyone. Best of all, by staying at our luxury hotel, you have a relaxing place to rest up after saying goodbye to the year.

Celebrate the Season with Holiday Events in San Diego

With fall settling in, families across the country start looking ahead to all the fun the end of the year brings. Now is the perfect time to make your plans to spend some time this holiday season at InterContinental San Diego. Our luxury bayfront hotel is the ideal home base for anyone looking to add a bit of extra excitement to their winter plans. Make the most out of your getaway by checking out some of the festive holiday events in the San Diego region.

What to Know about San Diego Whale Watching Season

Just like people head south to avoid the cold of winter, so do several animals, including whales. For anyone booking their stay at InterContinental San Diego over the winter, you are visiting during peak whale watching season. There are several ways to catch glimpses of these majestic creatures. Our team has compiled a handy guide of all you need to know to set off on your whale adventure.

Where to Catch a Show | San Diego Civic Theatre & More

While known for its idyllic weather and miles of shoreline, there is so much more to discover in San Diego. The popular California town has become a top vacation destination for everyone, from families to couples, for a reason. Located right on the waterfront, InterContinental San Diego is the perfect home base for everyone. On your next visit, experience part of the city’s art culture at performance spaces like the San Diego Civic Theatre and more.

Discover Incredible Talent at San Diego Art Museums

No matter where your interests lie, there is something in San Diego that fits the bill. The coastal California town is perfect for everyone, from people looking to spend time out on the open water to those more interested in unique attractions. By staying at InterContinental San Diego, every type of adventure imaginable is close by. If you’re looking for something to do indoors, spend some time checking out the numerous art museums in San Diego.

Try Something New on a San Diego Food Tour

In order to have the best vacation possible, you need to be properly fueled. For those staying at InterContinental San Diego, there are several incredible restaurants right at the hotel. However, there are delicious places to eat no matter where you turn. Whether popping into a coffee shop for a morning pick-me-up or the corner bistro for a mid-day snack, the possibilities are endless. One of the best ways to experience the flavors of San Diego is on a food tour.

Get Something Sweet at a San Diego Bakery

From upgrading your room at InterContinental San Diego to booking a rejuvenating spa service, there is no shortage of ways to pamper yourself when vacationing in San Diego. Whatever your version of self-care and treating yourself looks like, there is something in this California town that fits the bill. If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, head to an indulgent San Diego bakery. These spots are also perfect for a sugar rush to start your morning.

Have the Ultimate Fourth of July in San Diego

Few things scream summer as much as Independence Day celebrations. If you’re traveling over the Fourth of July to Intercontinental San Diego this year, you won’t miss out on any of the fun. This California town knows how to put on incredible events that appeal to visitors of all ages. Have fun exploring the city and all its activities during the day before the real festivities begin as the sun sinks into the bay.

Take to the Waters on San Diego Sailing Tours

There’s something tranquil about basking in the warm sunshine while a gentle breeze rocks your boat on the San Diego Bay. Up the relaxation factor by letting someone else worry about navigating the vessel by heading out on a guided tour. There are several sailing tours that set off from docks near InterContinental San Diego, making this outing an easy addition to your itinerary.

Tee Off at the Best Golf Courses in San Diego

From sunrise to sunset, there is no shortage of ways to fill your days with fun on a San Diego getaway. Thanks to its wide variety of activities and attractions, this coastal California town is perfect for all vacationers, from solo travelers to families. In addition to things like museums, arcades, and other attractions, InterContinental San Diego is also close to some of the best golf courses in San Diego.

Set Off Two Wheels | A Guide to Biking in San Diego

When visiting San Diego, there are countless ways to get outside and soak in the California sunshine. Relax by the rooftop pool at InterContinental San Diego, or discover all there is to do and see at the waterfront Embarcadero. There are also plenty of things to do for those who love to find ways to sneak workouts into their vacations. Biking the trails in San Diego is a great way to explore while working up a sweat.

See What You Can Find at a San Diego Swap Meet

Sometimes one of the best things to do on vacation is to treat yourself to some retail therapy. For those staying at InterContinental San Diego, there are incredible local and well-known brands all around you. Set off on foot to wander in and out of charming shops. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, make your saw to a San Diego swap meet.

See Who Comes Out on Top Bowling in San Diego

Despite its laid-back atmosphere, San Diego is filled with countless adventures, many of which are only a short distance from the luxurious InterContinental San Diego. When planning your stay at our downtown hotel, try to include a mix of different things to do on your itinerary. For a fun but competitive outing, see who comes out on top bowling at a local San Diego spot.

Feel a Rush at Amusement Parks in San Diego

No matter the length of your stay, there’s no better place to call home in San Diego than InterContinental San Diego. Not only will you have a relaxing space to call home, but you’ll also be close to all kinds of adventures. Set out to explore the unique neighborhoods or discover some of the more unique attractions in town. For a truly memorable outing, visit some of the amusement parks in San Diego.

Where to Get Incredible Views of the San Diego Skyline

By booking your stay at InterContinental San Diego, you’ll have a luxurious yet cozy place to call home. One of the biggest features of our accommodations is the floor-to-ceiling windows found in every room. Start and end your day with breathtaking views of San Diego from the comfort of your home away from home. However, there are countless other ways to experience the beauty of the San Diego Skyline.

See It All on the Best Walking Tours in San Diego

With so much to do and see when visiting San Diego, you need a hotel that’ll put you close to all of the top attractions and activities. Thanks to its prime downtown location, that’s precisely what you get when you stay at InterContinental San Diego. Staying at our downtown luxury hotel puts you within minutes of everything you need to make the most out of your vacation. One of the best ways to explore the top sights in San Diego is on guided walking tours.

Hiking Los Peñasquitos Canyon Trail

Located just north of San Diego, Los Peñasquitos Canyon Trail is the perfect place to get outside and appreciate nature far away from the crowds. At 7.3 miles long, this path is easy and accessible, with terrain well-suited for beginners. Featuring scenery and simplicity, Los Peñasquitos Canyon Trail is perfect for families as well as pets!

Tidepooling Adventures with Birch Aquarium

Let's go tide-pooling! March is the last month to enjoy the short season of minus tides. These are the times when the water stays below average low-tide depth, making it an ideal time to explore the marine life teeming in the tide pools left behind. 

Poway Winter Festival

Experience winter like never before at the Poway Winter Festival. Friday, January 10 from 5 to 9 pm and Saturday, January 11 from 3:30 to 8:30 pm, the North Inland destination will wrap you in the magic of the season by creating snow where there isn't any!

Don't Miss the Obvious at Balboa Park

Sometimes we miss the most obvious things by putting them off until tomorrow. But why put off until spring, what you can do today? Balboa Park invites you to wander and wonder in its 1,200-acres of glorious green.

San Diego International Film Festival

Five days of film premieres, swanky parties, and star-gazing begin October 15th in the heart of downtown San Diego and La Jolla. A coveted spot on the independent festival circuit, the San Diego International Film Festival draws film crews, crowds, and critics alike to catch never before seen studio releases.

Catch the Bodysurfing World Championships

Experts insist it's as natural and as easily learned as any sport. But for those who are simply in awe of the idea of throwing yourself into a crashing wave without a board, well, perhaps it's better to watch the pros pull the stunt before jumping in. 

Discover La Jolla's "Secret Swings"

It doesn't take much effort to find fun in a city practically dripping with sunshine. But we've found a spot that might raise your fun to new heights. 

Walk Through a Blooming Rainbow

Every March, for sixty years, the rolling hills of North San Diego County have burst into bloom to celebrate spring. The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch began as a working farm, growing flowers for profit, but the fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus were too beautiful not to share!

A Family Adventure in Balboa Park

You and the kids could easily spend an entire day at Balboa Park — and still come back for more. For starters, you have the San Diego Zoo, voted the best in the world. More than just lions, tigers and bears, the zoo features more than 3,700 animals from more than 660 species.