13 Jul 2026

Family Summer Fun in San Diego: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Getaway

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Summer in San Diego is all about sunshine, waterfront adventures, family attractions, and memorable experiences that bring everyone together. Between days spent exploring world-famous destinations and evenings watching the sun dip behind the marina, it's easy to see why San Diego remains one of Southern California's favorite summer vacation destinations. With its ideal location on Shelter Island, Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina offers families a relaxing home base within easy reach of some of the city's most popular attractions.

From sailing excursions and pickleball matches to unforgettable wildlife encounters and beach days by the Pacific, here's your guide to making the most of family summer fun in San Diego.

Start the Day with Pickleball at the Hotel

Before you even leave the property, there is fun waiting right outside your door. Our Shelter Island hotel is equipped with on-site pickleball courts, giving families an easy way to burn off some morning energy together. Grab a paddle, split into teams, and enjoy a few rounds before heading out for a day of San Diego adventures. Kids of nearly any age can pick up the basics quickly, and a friendly match is a great way to get the blood flowing before a hearty breakfast at Blue Wave Bar & Grill.

Pedal Around Shelter Island

Once you have worked up an appetite for adventure, rent some bikes and explore Shelter Island on two wheels. The island's flat, scenic paths wind past palm trees, marina views, and quiet coves, making it an easy ride for kids and parents alike. Stop along the way to watch the boats come and go, snap a few photos of the San Diego skyline across the bay, and enjoy the fresh sea air. The full loop takes less than an hour at a leisurely pace, which makes it a great option for younger riders or families who want to fit in a ride before an afternoon at the pool. It is one of the most relaxed ways to see the neighborhood that surrounds our hotel, and locals will tell you it is one of the prettiest rides in the city.

Set Sail with Next Level Sailing

For families who want to get out on the water, Next Level Sailing operates right from our private marina. Their sailing adventures aboard a historic yacht give kids and parents a chance to spot dolphins, learn a little bit about sailing, and soak up sweeping views of the San Diego coastline. Since the boat departs steps from your room, you can be casting off within minutes of finishing breakfast, with no long drives or parking hassles required. Guides share stories about the harbor and its history along the way, turning a simple boat ride into a memorable lesson for curious kids.

Marine Life Adventures at SeaWorld

No family trip to San Diego is complete without a stop at SeaWorld San Diego. Kids can watch dolphins leap, get an up-close look at sharks, and ride attractions built for every age and thrill level, from gentle rides for little ones to record-setting coasters for the thrill seekers in the family. The park's summer lineup includes new animal encounters and evening entertainment, so plan on spending a full day exploring the exhibits and shows. It is a short drive from Shelter Island, making it easy to fit into any summer itinerary alongside a beach day or an evening back at the hotel pool.

Snorkel with Sea Lions at La Jolla Cove

For a different kind of marine encounter, head north to La Jolla Cove, one of the best snorkeling spots on the West Coast. The cove is home to a lively colony of California seals and sea lions that lounge on the rocks and swim alongside snorkelers in the clear water. Bring your own gear or rent it nearby, and keep a respectful distance from the wildlife so everyone, animals included, can enjoy the visit. Older kids who are comfortable in the water will love spotting Garibaldi fish and exploring the sea caves along the shoreline, while younger family members can watch seals and sea lions bark and play from the safety of the overlook path above.

Beach Days at Ocean Beach

Sometimes the best family activity is simply a day on the sand. Ocean Beach offers a laid-back, classic California vibe with plenty of room to build sandcastles, splash in the surf, and watch the sunset. The nearby Newport Avenue strip is lined with casual restaurants and ice cream shops, perfect for refueling after a morning at the beach. It is a short drive from the hotel and a favorite among locals for good reason, offering a slower pace than some of the more crowded beaches in town and plenty of room to spread out.

Wild Encounters at the San Diego Zoo

Rounding out the list is the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to thousands of animals across expertly designed habitats. Kids can watch giant pandas, wander through lush plant collections, and learn about conservation efforts happening around the globe. Plan for at least half a day to see the highlights, and consider timing your visit around feeding times or keeper talks for an extra dose of excitement. The Zoo sits inside beautiful Balboa Park, so families with extra time can easily pair a visit with a stroll through the park's gardens and museums.

Comic-Con 2026 Comes to San Diego

If your summer trip lines up with late July, you might catch San Diego at its most colorful. Comic-Con International returns to the San Diego Convention Center from July 22 through July 26, 2026, drawing fans of comics, movies, and pop culture from around the world. Even if you are not headed to the show floor, downtown San Diego buzzes with cosplay and energy that week, making it a fun backdrop for families who enjoy people watching alongside their beach days. Just plan ahead, since hotel rooms and rental cars book up quickly during convention week.

Book Your Summer Stay at Island Palms

From pickleball courts just steps from your room to sailing trips, snorkeling with seals, and easy access to SeaWorld and the Zoo, San Diego has more family fun packed into one summer than almost anywhere else. Add in a relaxed marina setting, a pool to unwind in after a busy day, and a location that puts every corner of the city within reach, and it is easy to see why so many families return year after year. When it is time to plan your trip, book your stay at Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina and let our Shelter Island location be your home base for a summer full of memories.

01 Apr 2026

San Diego Local’s Guide to Secret Spots

By Best Western Island Palms Hotel

Like many major cities, San Diego gets a lot of attention for its top attractions. Places like Balboa Park, SeaWorld, and the Gaslamp Quarter draw visitors from all over, and they are absolutely worth experiencing. But if you want to see a different side of the city, there is so much more to explore beyond the usual highlights. San Diego is full of hidden gems that locals love but that do not always make it onto typical travel lists. From scenic viewpoints and tucked-away gardens to unique coastal finds, these spots offer a more relaxed and unexpected way to experience the area. If you are looking to mix in something a little different during your stay, these are some of our favorite local discoveries. After a day exploring America’s Finest City, return to the comfort of Best Western PLUS Island Palms Hotel & Marina, conveniently located in the heart of it all.

Shoreline Park (0.5 miles from hotel)

Just a short walk from our Shelter Island hotel, Shoreline Park is one of the best spots to take in views of the San Diego skyline. This quiet waterfront park is popular with locals for sunset, offering wide open green space, picnic areas, and a front-row seat to boats passing through the bay. It is an easy, peaceful escape that often goes overlooked.

Kellogg Beach (1.5 miles from hotel)

Tucked along the La Playa Trail in Point Loma, Kellogg Beach is a calm and scenic stretch of shoreline that feels removed from the busier beaches nearby. With gentle water and views of sailboats in the harbor, it is a great spot for a relaxed walk or a quiet moment by the water.

Open Ceiling Cave at Sunset Cliffs (2.6 miles to hotel)

(Photo: @evgenyyorobephotography)

Tucked along the coastline, this hidden sea cave offers a more secret side of San Diego’s natural beauty. As the sun sinks toward the horizon, soft shades of gold and pink light up the sky, casting a warm glow along the cave’s rugged edges. Step inside to watch the way light and shadow shift across the walls, creating a quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere. It is a special find for those looking to uncover one of the coast’s more tucked-away and memorable experiences.

False Idol (3.5 miles from hotel)

Tucked behind a hidden entrance inside Craft & Commerce in Little Italy, False Idol is one of San Diego’s most popular speakeasies. This immersive tiki lounge feels like stepping into another world, with dim lighting, carved wood details, and an atmosphere that transports you far from the city outside. Reservations are recommended, but if you can get in, it is well worth it. Known for its creative craft cocktails and attention to detail, False Idol is a great spot for a late-night experience that feels both exclusive and unexpected.

The Hidden Swings (varies, ~3 to 6 miles from hotel)

San Diego’s hidden swings are one of those experiences that feel like a true local secret. These simple rope swings are often set up in scenic locations with incredible views, whether overlooking the ocean or tucked into a quiet hillside. No one really knows who puts them up, and they tend to disappear and reappear over time, which only adds to the fun. Finding one can feel like a small adventure, and once you do, it is the kind of moment that brings out a sense of nostalgia with a view that makes it even better.

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge (5.7 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @bellpeppa)

Tucked into the Banker’s Hill neighborhood, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is a hidden gem that feels like both an attraction and an experience. This pedestrian-only bridge stretches nearly 400 feet across a canyon and sits about 70 feet above the ground. Originally built in 1912 to connect a trolley stop to a residential area, it is now a favorite local spot for a scenic walk. As you cross, the gentle sway and surrounding greenery make it feel like a quiet escape right in the middle of the city.

Harper’s Topiary Garden (5.6 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @regenbaby)

In Mission Hills, Harper’s Topiary Garden is a one-of-a-kind display created by local residents who have spent years shaping their front yard into a living art exhibit. The garden features carefully trimmed shrubs formed into animals, people, and abstract shapes, creating something that feels both whimsical and impressive. Visitors are welcome to stop by and take it in, just be sure to be respectful since it is still a private home.

Balboa Park Palm Canyon (7.6 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @gregorybergsd)

Balboa Park is one of San Diego’s most well-known destinations, but even here there are hidden corners that many visitors miss. Palm Canyon is one of those spots. Tucked away along a quieter path, this lush area features a variety of palm trees and feels like a peaceful retreat within the park. It is a great place to slow down, take a break from the crowds, and enjoy a different side of one of the city’s most popular landmarks.

Coronado Sand Dunes (11.5 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @duckysmom3 1 6)

The Coronado Sand Dunes are another unique find that many people overlook. While they may not seem hidden at first glance, their full design is only visible from above, where the dunes spell out “Coronado Beach.” Even without that aerial view, they are still a great place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or spend a laid-back afternoon by the ocean.

SS Monte Carlo Shipwreck (12 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @coronadobeachcomber)

Not far from there, the SS Monte Carlo shipwreck offers a rare glimpse into San Diego’s past. This former gambling ship ran aground during a storm in the 1930s and was later buried beneath the sand. Over the years, storms have uncovered parts of the wreckage, making it visible from shore at certain times. It is one of the only shipwrecks in the country that you can see without diving, which makes it a fascinating and unexpected coastal stop.

Sunny Jim's Sea Cave (12.8 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @thecavestore)

In La Jolla, Sunny Jim's Sea Cave offers a completely different kind of experience. Located beneath The Cave Store, this historic sea cave was originally dug in the early 1900s and was later used as a smuggling route during Prohibition. Today, visitors can walk through a tunnel to reach the cave and take in the view from inside. It is a unique mix of history, adventure, and coastal scenery all in one place.

Potato Chip Rock (36 miles from hotel)

(Photo: @mimilalaa)

For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, Potato Chip Rock is one of San Diego’s most thrilling hiking destinations. Located along the Mt. Woodson Trail, this uniquely shaped rock formation extends out over the landscape, creating a photo opportunity that feels both exciting and memorable. The hike itself is part of the experience, with rewarding views along the way that make the effort worthwhile.

Anza-Borrego Desert Sculptures (79.1 miles to hotel)

Anza Borrego Desert Sculpture of a dragon

Just beyond the city, the Anza-Borrego Desert offers a hidden escape that feels worlds away from the coast. The vast landscape is striking on its own, but if you time your visit right, you might catch the desert in bloom, with vibrant wildflowers stretching across the sand. Tucked throughout the area, you will also find unexpected works of public art. Scattered across the desert are massive metal sculptures, from towering dinosaurs to abstract figures, created by local artists and often missed by first-time visitors. It is a unique and lesser-known experience for those willing to venture a bit off the beaten path.

Plan Your San Diego Scavenger Hunt

Ready to explore these hidden gems for yourself? During your stay at Best Western PLUS Island Palms, you are perfectly positioned to experience both the well-known attractions and the local favorites that make San Diego so special. Be sure to check out our special offers and packages to make the most of your visit.