San Diego is, above all, a waterfront city, and one of the best ways to experience its charm is by strolling along the scenic San Diego Bay Waterfront. This vibrant area features beautiful parks, museums such as the Maritime Museum of San Diego and the USS Midway Museum, as well as plenty of seaside bars and restaurants. Be sure to check the calendar for the many sailing regattas, outdoor festivals, and events that take place along the bay each year.

Perched atop a hill near the Cabrillo National Monument, the Old Point Loma Lighthouse offers beautiful panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Though it ceased operating as a lighthouse in 1891 due to its location being frequently obscured by fog, the historic building is now a museum open to the public. Visitors can explore its rich maritime history and learn about its role in guiding ships to safety.

For the more active, there are multitudes of walks and footpaths to suit even the seasoned hiker. It is possible to walk from the far northwest to the far northeast of the island on a delightful 16 mile course, taking in some of the most fabulous scenery. There is also an extensive network of green lanes, which give priority to pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

Lying between Huiquan Cape and Taiping Cape, Badaguan (meaning 'Eight Great Passes') is named after the eight great passes of the Great Wall. The area was once occupied by several Western countries, which is reflected in the eclectic mix of architectural styles from over twenty nations, including England, Russia, Germany, France, Denmark, and more. Badaguan shines in every season: in spring, Shaoguan Road bursts into bloom with peach flowers; in summer, crepe myrtles line Zhengyangguan Road in vibrant colours; while in autumn, the maple leaves turn a striking red. Even in winter, the area remains picturesque, with the cedars keeping their evergreen hue. Whatever the time of year, Badaguan offers a new charm waiting to be explored.