There’s a certain feeling you get in San Diego. It’s the warmth of the sun on your skin nearly every day of the year and the constant, gentle breeze coming off the Pacific. This city is a natural playground, inviting you to step outside and simply be together. It’s where your vacation itinerary can be as simple as finding the perfect stretch of sand for building castles or as adventurous as kayaking through sea caves. These are the moments that define a family trip—the shared laughter, the new discoveries, and the simple joy of being outdoors. We’ve put together our favorite San Diego family outdoor activities to help you find those perfect moments and create memories that will last long after you’ve brushed the last bit of sand from your shoes.
Key Takeaways
- Mix and Match Your Adventures: Create a balanced family trip by pairing different types of outings. Combine a classic beach day at La Jolla Shores with a cultural stroll through Balboa Park, or follow a scenic hike at Torrey Pines with a free wildlife-watching session to see the sea lions.
- Find Fun for Every Age and Budget: San Diego is full of accessible activities. Enjoy many of the city’s best experiences for free, like exploring Old Town or splashing in the Waterfront Park fountains. You’ll also find plenty of easy, stroller-friendly paths and calm bay waters perfect for your youngest travelers.
- A Little Prep Makes for a Smoother Trip: A few simple habits can make your vacation much more relaxing. Always pack layers for the cool coastal evenings, arrive at popular spots early to find parking, and consider a guided bike or Segway tour to see the highlights without the stress of planning.
Why Your Family Will Love San Diego’s Outdoors
Planning a family trip can feel like a puzzle, but San Diego is one of those rare places where all the pieces just fit. It’s a city that seems designed for outdoor family fun, offering a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation that keeps kids engaged and parents happy. From sprawling parks to stunning coastlines, there’s a new discovery around every corner. The best part? You can leave the heavy coats at home. San Diego invites you to step outside and create memories together, whether you’re exploring on two wheels or simply soaking up the sun.
Enjoy Sun All Year Long
One of the biggest reasons families flock to San Diego is the incredible weather. With temperatures typically hovering between a comfortable 60°F and 80°F all year, you can plan your outdoor adventures without constantly checking the forecast. This means more time for playing in the sand, exploring trails, and enjoying the city’s natural beauty. The consistent sunshine makes it easy to get outside and be active. It’s why activities like our bike tours are a fantastic way to see the sights any month you choose to visit. You can focus on the fun, not on whether you packed enough layers.
From Beaches to Bluffs: A Playground for Everyone
San Diego’s landscape is impressively diverse. With over 70 miles of coastline, you can find the perfect beach for your family, whether you’re looking for the lively boardwalk at Mission Beach or the calmer waves at La Jolla Shores. But the scenery doesn’t stop at the sand. For a different kind of view, you can explore the dramatic cliffside trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, where short, manageable hikes lead to breathtaking ocean vistas. This variety ensures that no two days are the same and that there’s an outdoor setting to match every family’s energy level.
A City Built for Kids (and Parents)
Beyond the natural landscapes, San Diego is packed with world-class, family-friendly attractions. Balboa Park alone is home to the renowned San Diego Zoo, museums, and gardens that can fill an entire day with wonder. We know that getting from one spot to another with kids in tow can be a challenge, but the city is set up to make it easier. Taking one of our group tours allows you to skip the hassle of directions and parking, so you can focus on what matters: enjoying the experience with your family. It’s all about making your trip as seamless and memorable as possible.
Hit the Coast: San Diego’s Best Beaches for Families
A trip to San Diego isn’t complete without spending some serious time on the sand. With 70 miles of coastline, our city offers a beach for every type of family, from toddlers who just want to splash in the shallows to teens eager to catch a wave. The best part is that our beaches are more than just sand and water; they’re vibrant hubs of activity where you can build sandcastles, enjoy a bonfire, or simply relax and listen to the waves. Planning a beach day is one of the most classic San Diego experiences you can give your kids.
Beyond just sunbathing, the coastline offers incredible opportunities for adventure. You can explore tide pools teeming with tiny sea creatures, watch sea lions sunning themselves on the rocks, or enjoy a family picnic at a park right on the water. Many of our beach communities are perfect for exploring on two wheels, offering a fun way to see the sights and find your new favorite spot. A guided bike tour can be a fantastic way to cover more ground and learn about the area’s unique history without worrying about navigation. Whether you’re looking for calm waters for the little ones or a lively atmosphere with plenty of amenities, you’ll find the perfect stretch of sand for your family.
Explore La Jolla Shores & Cove
If you’re looking for the quintessential family-friendly beach, head straight to La Jolla Shores. The beach itself is wide, flat, and sandy, with gentle waves that are perfect for kids who are just getting comfortable with the ocean. You’ll find lifeguards on duty, fire pits for evening s’mores, and a fantastic playground at Kellogg Park right next to the sand. It’s an ideal spot for a full day of fun, from building sandcastles to trying out boogie boarding. The area is also stunningly beautiful, making it a great place to see on one of our Segway tours to get a real feel for the neighborhood’s charm.
Play at Mission Bay Park
For families with very young children, Mission Bay Park is a dream come true. This massive aquatic park features calm bay waters with virtually no waves, so you can let your little ones splash and play without worry. The sand is soft, and the vibe is relaxed and joyful. Mission Bay is also a hub for activities. You can rent paddleboards, kayaks, or bikes to explore the extensive network of paths that wind around the bay. With multiple playgrounds scattered throughout the park, you can easily spend the entire day here, alternating between water play and swings. It’s a safe, fun, and easy choice for a stress-free family outing.
Watch Seals and Sea Lions
A visit to La Jolla Cove is an absolute must for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. This protected cove is a favorite hangout for wild seals and sea lions, who can be seen lounging on the rocks and swimming in the clear water. It’s a truly magical sight for all ages. The best time to see them is often in May and June, when the sea lions have their pups. While it’s incredible to see these animals up close, remember that they are wild. It’s important to keep a safe distance and teach your kids to observe them quietly without disturbing their natural habitat.
Discover Life in the Tide Pools
Turn your beach day into a science lesson by exploring San Diego’s amazing tide pools. During low tide, especially in the winter months from November to March, the receding water reveals small pools in the rocks filled with fascinating sea creatures. Your kids will love searching for sea anemones, hermit crabs, tiny fish, and colorful sea stars. Some of the best spots for tide pooling include the rocky areas at Cabrillo National Monument and Shell Beach in La Jolla. It’s a hands-on way to connect with the ocean and learn about the delicate marine ecosystem that thrives just off our coast.
Find the Safest Spots to Swim
While San Diego’s beaches are generally safe, it’s always smart to be prepared. Before you head out, it’s a good idea to check the latest ocean conditions, including water quality and surf reports. The county provides daily updates, which you can easily check online. This will help you choose the best and safest spot for your family to swim. Also, a quick tip for a less stressful day: arrive early, especially during the busy summer months or on weekends. Parking spots at popular beaches fill up fast, and getting there ahead of the crowds will make your entire day more enjoyable.
Explore San Diego’s Parks and Natural Spaces
Beyond the sandy shores, San Diego’s parks and natural spaces offer a completely different kind of outdoor adventure for your family. From dramatic coastal cliffs to sprawling urban gardens, these spots provide a perfect backdrop for making memories. You can find everything from easy, kid-friendly trails to historical landmarks with incredible views. These parks are the heart of the city’s landscape, each with its own unique character and story.
Exploring these vast areas can feel like a big undertaking, but it’s worth every moment. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a relaxing picnic spot, or a place for the kids to run free, you’ll find it here. Many of these locations are so rich with history and hidden gems that joining one of the city’s group tours can be a great way to see the highlights without the stress of planning it all yourself. Get ready to discover the greener side of America’s Finest City.
Hike Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
For some of the most stunning ocean views you’ll ever see, head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The cliffside trails here are breathtaking, winding along the coast with the Pacific Ocean stretching out below. Don’t let the word “hike” intimidate you; the trails are relatively short and manageable for most families, with the longest being just over a mile. It’s a fantastic way to get the kids moving and burn off some energy. To make the most of your visit, try to go early in the morning to beat the crowds and find easier parking. Just remember there’s a per-car entry fee to access the reserve.
Visit Cabrillo National Monument
At the tip of the Point Loma peninsula, you’ll find Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego’s only National Park. This spot is a wonderful mix of history and nature. You can explore the Old Point Loma Lighthouse and imagine what life was like for the keepers who lived there. The views of the coastline, harbor, and downtown skyline are simply unmatched. If you’re visiting between November and March, be sure to check out the tide pools at low tide. They are teeming with fascinating sea creatures that will capture your kids’ imaginations and give them a hands-on science lesson.
Get Lost in Balboa Park
Balboa Park is so much more than just a park—it’s a 1,200-acre cultural oasis right in the heart of the city. You could easily spend several days here and still not see everything. It’s home to numerous world-class museums, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens like the tropical Palm Canyon. With plenty of open space and trails, it’s a great place for a family stroll or a picnic. Because the park is so massive, one of the best ways to see the sights without exhausting little legs is on one of the available Segway tours, which let you cover a lot of ground while having fun.
Splash Around at Waterfront Park
If you’re looking for a place to cool off and let the kids play, especially on a warm day, the Waterfront Park downtown is the perfect destination. This spacious park features large, interactive fountains that are basically a kid magnet—they’ll love splashing around for hours. There’s also modern playground equipment and huge grassy lawns ideal for running around or spreading out a picnic blanket. Best of all, the park is completely free to enjoy, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for an afternoon of fun. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful bay views.
Get on the Water: Adventures for Every Age
San Diego’s coastline is more than just a pretty view—it’s a massive aquatic playground waiting for you and your family. From gentle bay waters perfect for first-timers to the open ocean where majestic creatures roam, there are so many ways to make a splash. Getting out on the water gives you a completely different perspective of the city and creates those core memories that last long after your vacation ends. Whether you’re paddling, snorkeling, or cruising, these activities are a fantastic way to connect with nature and each other. Here are some of our favorite water adventures that are perfect for families of all ages and skill levels.
Where to Kayak as a Family
Kayaking is a wonderful way to explore San Diego’s marine environments up close. For families with younger kids or beginners, Mission Bay is the perfect spot. Its calm, protected waters make for a stress-free paddle where you can rent single or double kayaks and just enjoy the sunshine. If your kids are a bit older, say tweens and teens, head to La Jolla Shores to explore the famous sea caves. Paddling through the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park is an unforgettable experience, and taking a guided tour is a great way to safely find all the hidden grottos and learn about the local ecosystem.
Go Whale Watching
Seeing a whale breach the ocean’s surface is a truly breathtaking moment. San Diego is a prime spot for whale watching, but timing is everything. Plan your trip between mid-December and April to see migrating gray whales, or from mid-June to September for a chance to spot the magnificent blue whales, the largest animals on Earth. Many local companies offer tours with a sighting guarantee, which is great for peace of mind. If you’re traveling with extended family or a large party, we can help you organize a private group tour to create a special and personalized experience on the water.
Snorkel with Local Marine Life
La Jolla is the heart of San Diego’s snorkeling scene. The clear water at La Jolla Cove offers incredible visibility, often over 30 feet, making it easy to spot bright orange Garibaldi fish and other marine life. For a truly unique experience, visit La Jolla Shores in the summer (peaking in August and September) to swim with hundreds of harmless leopard sharks. They gather in the warm, shallow water to gestate and are amazing to see up close. While you can spot them in just knee-deep water, this adventure is best for confident swimmers in the family who are comfortable sharing the space.
How to Stay Safe on the Water
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your family has a safe and fun day. Before you even pack your towels, check the latest ocean conditions. The county’s official website provides daily updates on water quality and safety, so you can choose the best spot for your outing. Parking at popular coastal spots can be a challenge, especially in the summer, so we always recommend arriving early to snag a spot without the stress. A quick check of the local conditions and an early start will help make your day on the water smooth sailing from beginning to end.
Take a Walk: Easy Trails and Nature Hikes
While San Diego is famous for its sunny beaches, some of the city’s most breathtaking views are found on its walking trails. Exploring on foot lets you slow down and really soak in the scenery, creating those quiet family memories that last a lifetime. You don’t need to be an expert hiker to enjoy the natural beauty here; many of the best paths are gentle, well-maintained, and perfect for little legs. These trails offer a different kind of adventure—a chance to see the unique coastal sage scrub, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves up close.
Of course, a guided experience like a Segway tour is an incredible way to cover more ground and hear the city’s fascinating stories. But for those moments when you just want a simple, beautiful walk with your family, these spots are my absolute favorites. They are easy to get to, offer stunning rewards for minimal effort, and give you a true taste of San Diego’s wilder side. So, pack some snacks, grab your water bottles, and get ready to discover some of the most scenic and family-friendly hikes in the city.
Find Easy, Stroller-Friendly Paths
If you’re navigating with a stroller, the idea of a “hike” can seem more stressful than serene. That’s why Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is such a gem. It offers several short, easy trails that are manageable for the whole family. You can choose a path that winds along the dramatic cliffs with incredible ocean views, and many are less than a mile and a half long. The key is to go early in the morning to miss the biggest crowds and find parking more easily. It’s a perfect way to get some fresh air and stunning scenery without committing to an all-day trek.
Capture the Best Family Photos
We all want that one amazing family photo from vacation—the one that’s actually worth framing. For a backdrop that does all the heavy lifting, head to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. The name says it all. The rugged coastline and panoramic ocean views are spectacular any time of day, but they become truly magical as the sun begins to set. Find a safe spot along the cliffs, let the kids explore a bit, and snap away. The golden light and crashing waves create a perfect setting for photos you’ll cherish for years, and the experience is completely free.
Learn at Local Nature Centers
For an outing that’s both fun and educational, make your way to Cabrillo National Monument. As San Diego’s only National Park, it offers a fantastic mix of history and nature. You can explore the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse and learn about San Diego’s past, then head down to the tide pools to discover a world of tiny marine creatures. The tide pools are best visited during low tide from late fall to early spring, so check the schedule before you go. It’s a great way for kids to learn about the local ecosystem without even realizing it.
How to Prepare for Your Hike
One of the best parts about planning an outdoor adventure in San Diego is that the weather is almost always on your side. With year-round mild temperatures, you can comfortably hike any season. Still, a little preparation goes a long way. Always bring more water than you think you’ll need, along with plenty of snacks to keep energy levels up. Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Once you’re prepared, you can relax and enjoy the journey, whether you’re on foot or exploring the city on one of our bike tours.
Enjoy San Diego on a Budget: Free Family Fun
One of the best things about San Diego is that you don’t need a big budget to make lasting memories with your family. Some of the city’s most iconic and enjoyable experiences are completely free. From sprawling parks to historic neighborhoods, you can fill your itinerary with fun, engaging activities that cost nothing more than your time and attention. It’s the perfect way to soak up the local culture and natural beauty without worrying about your wallet.
Discover Local Parks and Playgrounds
San Diego is home to some incredible public parks that are perfect for a family outing. Start with Balboa Park, a massive 1,200-acre urban oasis with lush green spaces, beautiful gardens, and even a miniature railroad for the kids. While some museums have an entry fee, you can spend a whole day just wandering the grounds for free. For a chance to cool off, head downtown to Waterfront Park. Its interactive fountains are a huge hit with children, and the modern playground and large grassy areas are ideal for a picnic with a view of the bay. If you’re looking for something truly unique, find Queen Calafia’s Magic Circle, a whimsical sculpture garden filled with colorful mosaics. Just be sure to check its hours before you go.
Have Fun on the Sand
With over 70 miles of coastline, a beach day is a must-do, and it’s always free. For a classic family-friendly experience, head to La Jolla Shores Beach. Its flat, sandy expanse is great for all ages, and you’ll find lifeguards on duty, fire pits for evening s’mores, and a playground right next to the sand. If you have little ones, Mission Bay Park is a fantastic choice. The calm, waveless waters of the bay are much gentler than the open ocean, making it a safe spot for toddlers to splash around. You can pack a lunch, build sandcastles, and simply enjoy the sun. Many of these beautiful coastal spots are highlights on our bike tours, which offer a fun way to see the shoreline.
Spot Local Wildlife for Free
You don’t need to visit an aquarium to see incredible marine life in San Diego. Make your way to La Jolla to see the famous seals and sea lions. At Children’s Pool Beach, you can watch dozens of harbor seals lounging on the sand from a safe distance. Just a short walk away is La Jolla Cove, where California sea lions take over the rocks. It’s a spectacular sight, especially from May to June when the pups are born. Remember to give these wild animals their space and stay at least 50 feet away. It’s an unforgettable and educational experience for kids to see these creatures in their natural habitat, and our Segway tours often cruise through this beautiful area.
Step Back in Time in Old Town
Take your family on a trip to the past by visiting Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, known as the birthplace of California. This vibrant neighborhood brings history to life with its preserved adobe buildings, free museums, and live demonstrations. Kids will love watching the blacksmith at work or exploring the aisles of the Old Town Market for unique souvenirs. You can wander through the historic park, peek into the supposedly haunted Whaley House, and soak up the lively atmosphere. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon learning about the city’s rich heritage. Exploring the city’s history is what Another Side of San Diego Tours is all about, and Old Town is a cornerstone of that story.
What to Do Each Season in San Diego
One of the best things about San Diego is that there’s truly no bad time to visit. The city’s famously mild climate means you can enjoy the outdoors all year long. But each season brings its own unique charm and special activities that your family will love. Planning your trip around the seasons can help you create an unforgettable itinerary filled with everything from blooming flowers to migrating whales. Whether you’re visiting in the sunny peak of summer or the crisp, clear days of winter, there’s always something incredible to experience.
Spring: See the Flower Fields
From early March to early May, the hills of north county come alive with color. A visit to The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch is a springtime tradition for a reason. Imagine 55 acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers creating a breathtaking rainbow across the landscape. It’s the perfect backdrop for family photos and a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon. The vibrant display is a must-see, and kids love running through the rows of flowers. Beyond the fields, spring’s pleasant weather is ideal for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods on one of our group tours, where you can discover hidden gems without the summer crowds.
Summer: Maximize Your Beach Time
Summer in San Diego is all about the coast. With over 70 miles of shoreline and dozens of beaches to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your family to play in the sun and surf. Popular spots like Mission Beach and Pacific Beach have bustling boardwalks, soft sand for castle-building, and gentle waves for swimming. You can spend the whole day splashing in the ocean, playing beach volleyball, or simply relaxing. To see the coastline from a different perspective, consider taking one of our bike tours, which offer a fun and active way to cruise between the city’s iconic beach towns.
Fall: Enjoy Crisp Nature Hikes
When the summer heat fades, the crisp, clear days of fall offer the perfect weather for hitting the trails. This is the best time of year to go for a family hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The park features stunning cliffside trails with incredible ocean views, and many of the paths are short and manageable for little legs. Some trails even lead down to the beach, giving you a two-for-one adventure. Try to go early in the day to have the trails mostly to yourself. Seeing the city’s natural landscapes is a core part of the San Diego experience, which is why we love sharing its beauty on our guided tours.
Winter: Witness the Whale Migration
Winter brings one of nature’s most spectacular shows to the San Diego coast: the annual gray whale migration. From mid-December through April, you can head out on a whale-watching tour to see thousands of these gentle giants as they travel south. It’s a thrilling experience for all ages, and many tour companies even offer a sighting guarantee. The mild winter weather also makes it a fantastic time to see the city’s sights without the crowds. You can comfortably explore areas like Balboa Park or the Embarcadero on one of our Segway tours, giving you a unique and fun way to experience the city.
Plan Your Perfect San Diego Family Trip
A little planning goes a long way in making a family vacation feel like a real vacation. With so many amazing outdoor options, you can design a trip that has something for everyone. Thinking through the logistics beforehand means you can spend less time stressing and more time soaking up the sun and making memories with your favorite people. Here are a few tips to help you map out your perfect family adventure in San Diego.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Honestly, there’s no bad time to visit San Diego. The city is famous for its mild, sunny weather all year long, with temperatures usually hovering between 60°F and 80°F. This makes it a fantastic destination for outdoor activities whenever you can get away. Summer is the most popular season, bringing warm beach days and a lively atmosphere, but it also means bigger crowds. If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, consider visiting in the spring or fall. You’ll still get beautiful weather, but with fewer people and often better deals on accommodations. Winter is also lovely, offering a peaceful escape with the added bonus of whale watching season.
What to Pack for Your Adventure
Packing for San Diego is all about layers. Sunny days can turn into cool evenings, especially near the coast, so bring light jackets or sweatshirts for everyone. Essentials include sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and reusable water bottles to stay hydrated. Since you’ll be doing a lot of exploring, comfortable walking shoes are a must. If you plan on swimming, be sure to check the latest ocean conditions before you head out. A good tip for any season, but especially summer, is to arrive at popular beaches and attractions early in the day to find parking without the stress. This little bit of planning can make a huge difference in starting your day on the right foot.
How to Get Around the City
San Diego is a sprawling city, so having a plan for transportation is key. Renting a car offers the most flexibility for getting to different neighborhoods, but be prepared for traffic and parking challenges, especially in popular areas like downtown and the beach communities. For a stress-free way to see the main sights, families often enjoy the Old Town Trolley Tours, which let you hop on and off at various attractions. To really immerse yourselves in a specific area, consider a guided tour. Exploring the beautiful coastline of La Jolla on a bike tour or gliding through Balboa Park on a Segway lets you cover more ground than walking while getting an up-close look at the city’s gems.
Choose the Right Activities for Your Kids
The best family trips have something for every age and interest. Before you go, chat with your kids about what they’d like to do. Toddlers and little ones will love the playgrounds at Balboa Park or splashing around at La Jolla Shores. Elementary-aged kids might enjoy the tide pools or learning to kayak in Mission Bay. For teens seeking a bit more excitement, a thrilling Segway tour through the Gaslamp Quarter could be the highlight of their trip. Planning a mix of activities—some active, some relaxing—ensures everyone stays happy and engaged. Involving your kids in the process builds anticipation and guarantees they’ll be excited for the adventures ahead.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best time of year to visit San Diego with kids? Honestly, you can’t go wrong any time of year thanks to our mild weather. If you’re looking for classic, sunny beach days, summer is fantastic, but it’s also the busiest season. For a more relaxed trip with fewer crowds and beautiful weather, I always recommend spring or fall. Spring brings the incredible Flower Fields, and fall offers crisp, clear days perfect for hiking. Winter is also a wonderful and quieter time to visit, with the added excitement of whale watching season.
We have young children. What are the top must-do activities for toddlers? For families with little ones, I always suggest sticking to the calm waters of Mission Bay Park. The bay has virtually no waves, making it a safe and stress-free place for toddlers to splash and play in the sand. Another fantastic spot is the Waterfront Park downtown, which has interactive splash fountains that kids absolutely love. Both locations have great playgrounds and plenty of grassy space for a picnic, making for an easy and fun-filled day.
My teenagers get bored easily. What activities will keep them engaged? San Diego has plenty of adventure for teens. For a unique thrill, exploring the city’s coolest neighborhoods like the Gaslamp Quarter or Balboa Park on a Segway tour is always a huge hit. If they’re up for a water adventure, kayaking to the sea caves in La Jolla or snorkeling with the harmless leopard sharks in the summer provides an unforgettable experience. For incredible views and a great photo opportunity, a walk along Sunset Cliffs at golden hour is sure to impress them.
Is it really possible to have a fun family day without spending a lot of money? Absolutely. Some of the best family memories in San Diego are completely free. You can spend a full day at the beach, building sandcastles and exploring tide pools. A visit to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park costs nothing and offers a fascinating look into California’s history. You can also watch the wild seals and sea lions in La Jolla or spend hours wandering through the beautiful gardens and grounds of Balboa Park without spending a dime.
Do we absolutely need to rent a car to get around? While a car offers the most flexibility for exploring San Diego’s spread-out neighborhoods, it’s not always necessary. You can certainly manage without one, especially if you plan your activities strategically. For seeing specific areas without the hassle of parking, a guided tour is a fantastic option. A bike tour along the coast or a Segway tour through a dense area like Balboa Park lets you see all the highlights up close while someone else handles the directions.
