The Best Excursions in San Diego, California

Enjoy a relaxing day in Temecula, one of California’s premier wine-growing regions. For over half a century, the wineries here have been perfecting both well-known and unique grape varietals. Visit the family-owned Wilson Creek Winery, renowned for its quality wines and welcoming ambiance, where you can sample an array of varietals and enjoy a romantic stroll through its beautiful grounds. The journey continues at Peltzer Family Cellars, a longstanding winery that embodies five generations of farming roots. Here, enjoy wine tastings in a picturesque garden setting, complete with a picnic lunch overlooking the vineyards.

For animal lovers, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit attraction. Built on a hillside in beautiful Balboa Park, the zoo boasts 4,000 animals representing more than 800 species, plus over 6,500 species of exotic plants. The sprawling zoo offers an immersive experience with open-air habitats that recreate the natural environments of its residents. From the playful pandas to the majestic lions, there's a world of wildlife to discover. Your admission ticket includes unlimited use of the guided bus, express bus, and the Skyfari aerial tram, which offers a bird’s eye view of the zoo and surrounding park.

See the best of San Diego on land and in the water. Tour the city on the Coast Guard-approved San Diego SEAL, an open-air amphibious vehicle that’s specially designed to navigate on sea and land. Your narrated tour winds its way through the picturesque San Diego streets before splashing down for a cruise through the waters of the San Diego Bay. You’ll hear about the city’s rich history and glide past resident seals, sea lions, and California brown pelicans on this leisurely cruise.

Embark on a thrilling tour of haunted San Diego aboard the Trolley of the Doomed. Travel back in time to the Old Town, a place once inhabited by notorious characters whose spirits are believed to linger in historic buildings and cemeteries. Explore the El Campo Santo Cemetery and the Whaley House grounds, reputedly the most haunted house in the U.S. according to the Travel Channel’s America’s Most Haunted. Your guide will shed light on the ghostly residents. Following the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the Old Town San Diego Historic State Park, home to restored 19th-century buildings. Hop back on any trolley from the Old Town Market for the return journey to the pier.

Traverse the city on the charming Old Town Trolley of San Diego. On this 25-mile fully narrated tour of San Diego and Coronado, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views and fascinating commentary about iconic landmarks. From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the vibrant Little Italy, the fast-paced two-hour tour covers all major attractions. The hop-on, hop-off feature lets you explore each stop at your own pace, making it a fun and convenient way to experience the best of San Diego.

Check out our full range of San Diego shore excursions to discover the city's stunning beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a history buff, we have an experience tailored for you. Start planning your perfect San Diego adventure today.

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A Holland America Line cruise is the perfect gateway to the vibrant city of San Diego. Our cruises offer a unique blend of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to experience the best of the city before returning to the comfort of our luxurious ships. Explore our San Diego cruise itineraries and embark on the cruise of a lifetime with Holland America.