Family Enjoying a Padres Game at Petco Park
San Diego is for city lovers, nature enthusiasts, and everyone in between. Right by the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina are the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, and of course, the beautiful marina and waterfront of the Embarcadero San Diego.
Here are some of my favorite activities I think you’ll enjoy during your stay.
Things to Do at the Hotel
From activities to dining to comfortable rooms, the Marriott is a destination on its own, even among other San Diego hotels.
Grassy Area next to the Pool at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Work Up a Sweat, Then Relax
Keep active at the hotel by visiting its fitness center, which has daily classes led by expert instructors. Or practice your swing at the Topgolf Suite.
Then reward yourself with a dip in the pool, or give yourself the VIP treatment at the hotel’s massage and wellness center, The Hideaway.
Bike Rentals
Rent a bike directly from the hotel through Wheel Fun Rentals and hit the biking trails on the property, or take in the sights along the harbor.
Want my recommendation for a beautiful bike route? Take a ride along the San Diego Bayshore Bikeway then catch the ferry across to Coronado Island then bike along the waterfront in Coronado. If you are feeling adventurous then cross over to the ocean side of Coronado Island and explore the beautiful and historic Hotel del Coronado, it is worth it!
Walkway to the Ballrooms at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Hold a Special Event
There are multiple event spaces on the property perfect for baby shower venues, wedding venues, or booking that ideal San Diego ballroom.
The facility has an event planning staff to assist you with gatherings of any size, and their largest space can accommodate almost 3,700 people.
Downtown San Diego with the Unconditional Surrender Statue in the Foreground
Things to Do Near the Hotel
From the famous San Diego Zoo to the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the variety of nearby attractions are why I love the great location of the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina.
Old Town Mexican Cafe Across the Street from the Whaley House
Visit Nearby Neighborhoods
Downtown San Diego is right at your doorstep at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. Soak up the culture and heritage of Old Town San Diego and Little Italy just by walking down the street or dining at a restaurant.
Exploring the Gaslamp Quarter is always fun too. Take a trip back in time and visit a tequila bar on the Brothels Bites and Booze Food Tour, one of my personal favorites.
The San Diego International Airport (SAN) is less than 4 miles away making it very easy to get to. You don't really need to rent a car as Uber or Lyft is just a click away.
San Diego Zoo Entrance
Popular Family Attractions
Some of my favorite family-friendly activities can be found right near the hotel. At the USS Midway Museum, learn about San Diego’s military history aboard a real naval aircraft carrier.
There’s also the museums of Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park. In fairness, the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park is close while the San Diego Zoo Safari Park could be a 45 minute drive away in Escondido, but it too is an experience worth considering. If you only have time for one, use our comparison guide to decide which zoo is best for you!
I also recommend the coasters and shows at SeaWorld San Diego.
The All-inclusive Go City San Diego pass lets you save when visiting these attractions, with an additional discount available using our code GVSD5OFF.
Billabong Surf Shop at Westfield UTC Mall
Shopping & Malls
Some of the best malls in San Diego are right around the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. Shop until you drop in Seaport Village, Westfield UTC Mall, Fashion Valley Mall, or Liberty Station.
Harbor Cruise Boat in San Diego Bay
Head to the Coast
When you stay right along the marina, there’s no better way to spend the day than oceanside.
Bordering the Embarcadero is the San Diego Bay, you can schedule a harbor cruise, whale-watching tour, or deep-sea fishing excursion.
Find the best beaches in San Diego where you can surf the waves, paddleboard, sunbathe on the sand, or just people watch!
Alternatively, enjoy the great outdoors when you go hiking at one of the parks or nature preserves in the area, or hit a few rounds at the golf courses around town.