San Diego travel guide

San Diego, situated about 15 miles from the Mexican border, is the southernmost city in California and the second largest with 2.5 million people including the outskirts. It didn’t have the same economic growth as L.A. and San Francisco because it was cut off the railway line and therefore missed out on the traffic generated by the gold rush. However the bays spread out along the coast soon got the attention of the Navy and San Diego became an important base during the Second World War, which is to today the core of its economy along with tourism.
The dry warm climate and the ideal geographical position between two inlets make it a popular tourist destination. The architecture is very modern with plenty of Mexican influence Downtown giving an exotic character very well appreciated by tourists. In addition to rolling mountains, beautiful deserts and 70 miles of coastline with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, San Diego offers a great variety of attractions such as Sea World, Wild Animal Park and the San Diego Zoo.
The lucky people visiting San Diego between December and March will be able to catch a glimpse of the migration of the most majestic sea mammals as the whales pass the coast on their way to and from Mexico. Thanks to the perfect climate there is an abundance of outdoor activities from Scuba diving, windsurfing and surfing to jet skiing, volleyball and many more. There are over 85 golf courses, more than in any American city. The hiking lovers can visit the Cowels Mountain trail, 1.5 miles long that rises to 950 feet with spectacular views over the Pacific, San Diego and the inland mountains. Another place for great views of the city skyline and the ocean is the Ferry Landing Marketplace, an open-air plaza with a variety of shops, restaurants and galleries. The beautiful beaches with their different landscapes are certainly San Diego’s greatest attraction. Pacific Beach is one of the most famous and is ideal for surfing, for those who prefer smaller waves Sunset Cliffs is the place.
The nightlife is extremely happening and varied, from country and western bars to hip dance clubs and every type of music that falls in between.
If you have time a trip south of the border is a fun thing to do. Tijuana is only 23 miles south of San Diego and is one of the most exciting Mexican cities with wonderful restaurants, great shops and lively nightlife.