With 2024 just around the corner, it’s time to reorganize and jot down your aspirations and goals for the coming months. This, of course, includes listing all the places you want to visit this year. So, to make your life a little easier, we’ve compiled 10 spectacular things you must add to your San Diego bucket list to experience the best of the city.
1. SeaWorld’s Jellyfish Showcase
This year San Diego is kicking off with more than a dozen new experiences; among them, one stands out that we’re particularly excited to try. This 2024, SeaWorld will unveil “Jewels of the Sea: The Jellyfish Experience.” Although the exhibit’s opening date is yet to be announced, it will showcase four distinct jellyfish species and offer a “hands-on experience,” allowing guests to touch these translucent treasures from the ocean.
2. Go paragliding at Torrey Pines
Soar through dreams and reality with a paragliding experience at Torrey Pines in San Diego. Paragliding here isn’t just a ride but a chance to witness panoramic views unlike any other. You’ll see the Pacific Ocean stretch out endlessly, surfers carving turquoise waves, and the sun glinting off the golden cliffs.
3. Candlelight Concerts
No San Diego bucket list is complete without the addition of a Candlelight concert. Enjoy your songs classically rendered in some of San Diego’s most iconic venues like Mission San Luis Rey or the Star Theater. Let the cozy vibes in and treat yourself to a candlelit evening with your favorite people!
4. Take a surfing lesson
C’mon how can you not take surfing lesson in SD? That’s like Sunny San Diego 101. Under sunny skies and with expert guidance, this amazing city beckons with the perfect waves for your surfing debut. Just imagine the feeling of paddling out, popping up on the board, and gliding across the Pacific as you’ll conquer the thrill of catching your first ride – it’s *chef kiss*
5. Mabel’s Gone Fishing
Penned as one of the best new restaurants of 2023, Mabel’s Gone Fishing has become a staple of North Park in little time. This local eatery blends the best of Spain’s dishes with Cali’s unique produce. From sourdough pan con tomate —add the staple boquerones, you won’t regret it— to Baja oysters, grabbing a bite at Mabel’s this year has to be on your San Diego bucket list.
6. San Diego Museum of Arts
Make sure to include the San Diego Museum of Art on your bucket list. Explore different perspectives with ongoing exhibitions that go from Renaissance to Realism, to it feature exhibition Agents of Power: Body Adornment in African Art.
7. La Jolla Coast Walk
We love San Diego in the winter with its low tides and sunny days, creating the perfect conditions for delightful beach walks. Explore La Jolla’s attractions along the scenic La Jolla Coast Walk, featuring highlights like the La Jolla Seals, Sea Caves, Children’s Pool, and La Jolla Cove. The walk spans about 1 1/2 miles, making it a fantastic outing for the entire family.
8. Eat while blindfolded at Dinning in the Dark
Craving a culinary adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? Look no further than Dining in the Dark, a unique experience where you ditch the menus and the lights! Enjoy a delicious three-course meal completely blindfolded, letting your senses take center stage. Challenge your perception and unlock a whole new way to appreciate your food.
9. Whale watching
Embark on a thrilling whale-watching expedition off the coast of San Diego. Witness the majestic beauty of these marine giants as they migrate through the Pacific waters. Companies like San Diego Whale Watch and Flagship Cruises offer guided tours that provide not only an opportunity to spot whales but also a chance to learn about the diverse marine life that inhabits the region.
10. Tide pooling adventure
Explore the hidden treasures of San Diego’s coastline with a tide pooling adventure tour. Led by Ocean Connector’s guides, these tours take you to secret spots where tide pools come alive with fascinating marine life. Discover colorful sea anemones, hermit crabs, and starfish clinging to the rocks at famous tide pool spots Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument.