Top Destinations Nearby
Sunset Cliffs is really nearby many attractions. You have a variety of options that will suit a range of tastes. So, whether you want to see something historical or need to feel a surge of adrenaline, this area has it all.
Head out to Ocean Beach where you will find a range of shopping and dining options along Ocean Beach Newport Avenue. You should also stop at the pier where you can go fishing or just watch the sea lions frolic.
Cabrillo National Monument and Park is a real treat. You can experience a real lighthouse, and on a clear day, you can literally see all the way to the Mexican border. At the national monument, you will learn a little about the history of San Diego and have the chance to explore the on-site museum. Where you can learn about how this location protected San Diego and the west coast of the United States during WWII.
The park also features plenty of hiking trails if you would like to explore a bit more. There are also tide pools, which can be a lot of fun, especially for children.
You’ll find more history at the USS Midway Museum. This is an old naval aircraft carrier turned into a museum. While here, you can take audio tours, interact with knowledgeable guides, see restored aircraft and check out other memorabilia from the time the USS Midway was an active carrier.
Belmont Park is a tribute to the amusement parks of the 1920s. It features an old roller coaster that is still operational and making riders scream. There are other amusement rides, miniature golf, arcade games and a food court along the boardwalk in Mission Beach.
If you want Old West meets modern day fun, then go to Old Town. You’ll see plenty of historical architecture, museums and living history events from the 1800s. This town really celebrates the past. Plus, you can also do quite a bit of shopping and find some seriously good restaurants here.
Old Town also is the site of the Old Town Trolley Tour. Ride the trolley around San Diego and stop at various attractions. You can get off and on the tour as you please, so it allows you to plan your day and see everything you want to without having to mess with traffic.
One last site you cannot miss is the Whaley House Museum. If you enjoy the paranormal, then you probably already know some stories about this place as it’s been featured on various television shows and written about in books.
The Whaley House has been everything from a family home to a billiards' hall to the courthouse. You will learn all about its varied history on your visit. This includes learning that Thomas Whaley built the house on the former site where the town used to carry out public hangings. Also, you will hear the sad tale of a suicide that happened in the house.
The museum pays homage to an important building in the city with hosts in period clothing and guides who will explain all the important details of the house, its history and the hauntings.