Top 10 Views in the San Diego Area

San Diego bills itself as America’s finest city for good reason, simply put, San Diego is gorgeous. From the sparkling blue of the Pacific to the mountain ranges and valleys, the views San Diego offers are second to none. With that in mind, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite San Diego viewpoints.

Cabrillo Point

Cabrillo National Monument is at the tip of the Point Loma Peninsula and is home to the Point Loma Lighthouse. This monument celebrates the landing of Juan Cabrillo, the first European believed to have stepped foot on the West Coast of the future U.S.A. The view from Cabrillo Point is awesome. You see the city skyline and San Diego Bay sprawled out on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other. Depending on the time of year, you can even see gray whales off the coastline as they migrate.

Mt. Soledad

Mt. Soledad soars above the coastal village of La Jolla – San Diego’s jewel. Mt. Soledad is the perfect spot for a picnic with its 360 degree view. You’ve got the ocean to the west, the town of La Jolla immediately below, the city skyline to the south, mountains to the east and north. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mexico.

The Embarcadero

The Embarcadero is another favorite spot for taking in the scenery. The Embarcadero stretches along San Diego Bay separating the bay from downtown. You’ll find cruise ships, the legendary Star of India and the USS Midway moored here. Stop in for a drink or meal at Anthony’s Fish Grotto for a fantastic harbor view. This restaurant and fish market is located right on the water. You can’t get any closer without getting wet.

Torrey Pines State Preserve

Torrey Pines State Preserve is another favorite spot for enjoying San Diego views. Here you can hike amongst the rare and beautiful Torrey Pines and take in the ocean scenery below. Hang gliders and para-sailors leap off of the cliffs and soar above the waves. The Torrey Pines State Preserve has over 2000 acres of pristine coastal bluffs. Hike along the 8 miles of trails and enjoy the scenic overlooks.

The Presidio

The Presidio is a fantastic place to visit for the museum alone. Add in the scenic view overlooking Mission Valley, Mission Bay and points beyond and you have next favorite San Diego view.

Sea World SkyTower

If you plan a trip to Sea World while visiting San Diego be sure to splurge and go aboard the Sea World SkyTower. You’ll revolve up this 265 foot tower and see San Diego spread out before you. Because the platform revolves, you’ll see a 360 degree view that stretches almost 100 miles in all directions!

The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster

Enjoy a thrill ride and a breathtaking view at the same time by riding the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster. This restored and historic wooden roller coaster is located right on Mission Beach. As you approach the top of the coaster, you’ll see the gorgeous California coastline before you whoosh on by at 45 miles per hour.

Balboa Park

In addition to the wonderful museums that make Balboa Park the “Smithsonian of the West Coast”, Balboa Park offers gorgeous views of San Diego. Even the freeway that runs adjacent to Balboa Park is scenic. For a spectacular view of downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bay Bridge, plop yourself down on the grassy area outside of the San Diego Aerospace Museum. Jet airplanes coming in for a landing fly overhead as they approach the airport. They look close enough to touch which makes for a unique experience in itself.

Blue Sky Preserve

The Blue Sky Preserve in Poway consists of over 700 acres of San Diego countryside at its best. You’ll enjoy miles of trails with oak trees, streams, chaparral, willows, abundant wildlife, rugged mountains, and peace and quiet. Seeing this much open space in San Diego city limits is awe-inspiring. The hiking at Blue Sky Preserve ranges from moderate to rugged. Take your pick. For those who want a challenge, climb on up to Mt. Woodson and enjoy a San Diego view that can’t be beat.

Seaport Village

For a cozy and beautiful San Diego waterfront view, head on down to Seaport Village. With its charming sidewalk eateries, unique shops and galleries, and free entertainment, Seaport Village is the place to be. Take in the scenery with a horse drawn carriage ride or simply snuggle up with your loved ones and walk along the waterfront.