Have you ever visited San Diego and felt you’ve seen it all? This city offers so much, from the famous San Diego Zoo to the stunning beaches. But what about the hidden gems that only locals know about? In this blog post, I’ll share some of the best hidden gems in San Diego that you won’t find in your typical tourist guidebook.
1. Spruce Street Suspension Bridge
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge is one of the hidden gems of San Diego, located at Spruce St, San Diego, CA 92103. It is a pedestrian bridge that spans across the Session Canyon and offers a unique experience to visitors.
Here are some of the unique features of the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge that make it a must-visit place in San Diego:
- The bridge is 375 feet long and offers a breathtaking view of the Session Canyon below.
- There’s an extra element of excitement because steel wires support the bridge and wobble slightly when people cross it.
- The bridge is dog-friendly and kid-friendly, making it a perfect place for a family outing.
- The bridge is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene environment to the visitors.
Visitors can access the bridge by turning west onto Spruce Street from First Avenue and driving all the way down until they see the entrance. The hike below the bridge is easy, and visitors can cover it in just 0.25 miles both ways.
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2. Heritage Park
Heritage Park is a hidden gem located in San Diego, California. This park is a great place to visit if you want to see some of the city’s most historic buildings. One of the unique features of this park is that it contains a collection of restored Victorian homes built between 1887 and 1910. These homes have been moved to the park from different locations around the city and restored to their original condition.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the homes and learn about the history of San Diego and the people who lived in these homes. In addition to the Victorian homes, Heritage Park has a beautiful rose garden, a gazebo, and a picnic area. The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.
Some of the unique features of Heritage Park include:
- A collection of restored Victorian homes
- Gorgeous rose garden
- A gazebo and picnic area
- A self-guided tour of the historic homes
3. Sunset Cliffs Open Ceiling Cave
The Sunset Cliffs Open Ceiling Cave is a hidden gem located in the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park in San Diego. This massive sea cave is a fantastic spot for photos, and due to the difficulty of access (only during a negative tide), it stays relatively secluded.
To get to the cave, park your car between Hill Street and Monaco Street on Sunset Cliffs Blvd in Point Loma. From there, you can walk over to the cliffs and look at the open ceiling cave from the top. It is a beautiful sight, especially during sunset when the colors bursting through the sea cave “door” are spectacular.
Unique features of the Sunset Cliffs Open Ceiling Cave include:
- Massive open ceiling cave
- Beautiful views of the ocean and cliffs
- Secluded location due to difficulty of access
4. Sunset Cliffs Swing
The Sunset Cliffs Swing is one of the most popular hidden gems in San Diego. It is located on the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a beautiful coastal park offering breathtaking ocean views. The swing is a handmade wooden bench that hangs from a eucalyptus tree on the edge of a cliff overlooking the ocean. It is a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the stunning sunset views.
One of the unique features of the Sunset Cliffs Swing is that it is not always there. The swing is often taken down and replaced with a new one by local residents, so finding it is a bit of a treasure hunt. However, it is a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike when it is up.
- Unique features:
- Handmade wooden bench
- Hangs from a eucalyptus tree on the edge of a cliff overlooking the ocean
- Often taken down and replaced with a new one by local residents
- Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
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5. Coronado Sand Dunes
Coronado Sand Dunes is an incredible sight in San Diego. These sand dunes are in front of the central beach area just north of the Hotel Del Coronado. They are quite high, topped with ice plants, forming a maze-like barrier to the wide, sandy beach. Not many of San Diego’s beaches have sand dunes, so it’s a special sight.
The Coronado Sand Dunes are man-made and came to be due to the creativity of a maintenance guy who cleaned the beach from seaweed in the 1980s. Due to this, most locals see them as nothing special, but they are a hidden gem worth checking out.
The sand dunes are not only visually stunning, but they also offer a unique opportunity for adventure seekers. Visitors can try sandboarding, which is like snowboarding but on sand. It’s a thrilling experience that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Some tips for visiting the Coronado Sand Dunes include wearing comfortable shoes, bringing plenty of water, and being prepared for the weather. It can get quite hot, so staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun is important.
6. Balboa Park Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden in Balboa Park is a serene and peaceful oasis in the middle of the bustling city of San Diego. As the name suggests, it symbolizes the friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama.
The garden has well-designed stone pathways, serene koi ponds, and old architectural elements. The Japanese history and culture are on display at the garden’s museum. Visitors can learn about Ikebana, flower arrangements, tea ceremonies in Japan, and traditional Japanese arts and crafts.
Here are some unique features of the Japanese Friendship Garden:
- The garden is inspired by the Edo period gardens of Japan and is designed to be a living work of art.
- The garden is surrounded by rich vegetation and beautiful flowers and showcases a breathtaking waterfall.
- The garden contains various Japanese plants and trees, including cherry blossom trees, Japanese maples, and bamboo.
- The garden also features a bonsai collection, including some of the world’s oldest and most unique bonsai trees.
7. Balboa Park Cactus Garden
The Balboa Park Cactus Garden is a must-visit hidden gem located in San Diego, California. As the name suggests, this garden is home to a vast collection of cacti, succulents, and desert plants.
One of the unique features of the Balboa Park Cactus Garden is its collection of rare and exotic plants. Visitors can marvel at the variety of cacti and succulents worldwide, including the towering saguaro cactus, the colorful prickly pear, and the delicate agave. The garden also features a variety of desert trees and shrubs, including the iconic Joshua tree.
The garden is open 24/7, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk any time of day. The garden is dog-friendly so visitors can bring their furry friends along for the adventure.
Read: 24 Best Indoor Activities in San Diego
8. Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave
Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave is a historic gem in La Jolla, San Diego. The cave was named after Sunny Jim, the British Force wheat cereal’s mascot in the 1920s. The tunnel was dug by two Chinese laborers hired by German artist, mining engineer, and entrepreneur Gustav Schultz in 1902. It leads from the Cave Store, Schultz’s original residence, down through the sandstone cliffs of La Jolla Cove and into Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave.
Locate the Cave Store first to visit the Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave from land. The gift shop sits on La Jolla’s oceanfront Coast Blvd, within walking distance from some of the popular beaches in the village. The entrance to the cave is through a small wooden door inside the gift shop. The door leads to a steep, narrow staircase that takes you to the cave.
Here are some unique features of Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave:
- The cave is the only sea cave in La Jolla that is accessible by land.
- The cave is 145 feet long and 60 feet tall at its highest point.
- Sunlight can enter the cave through an aperture at the top, illuminating the cave’s walls with a lovely natural light.
- The cave is home to a colony of sea lions. Visitors can hear their barks and see them basking in the sun on the rocks outside the cave.
9. Del Mar Bridge
The Del Mar Bridge is a historic bridge located in the coastal community of Del Mar, California. As a resident of San Diego, I have visited this hidden gem many times, and it always impresses me.
Built in 1932, the bridge spans the San Dieguito Lagoon and offers stunning views of the lagoon, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding landscape. The bridge is a popular spot for photographers, walkers, and joggers alike.
One unique feature of the Del Mar Bridge is its distinctive architecture. The bridge is reinforced concrete and features a series of arches that give it a unique and elegant appearance. The arches are illuminated at night, creating a beautiful sight for those passing by.
10. Harpers Topiary Garden
Harpers Topiary Garden is a hidden gem located in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego. It is a private garden created by Alex and Edna Harper, who turned their front yard into a work of art that everyone can enjoy and appreciate. The garden is a masterpiece of topiary art, featuring over 50 life-sized figurines that are all trimmed by hand.
The garden was once a basic shrubbery, but the owners decided to find a shape for each of the shrubs and turn them into something unique. The result is an amazing collection of topiary creations, including animals, dinosaurs, and even a dragon. Visitors are welcome to walk by and admire the amazing artistry but are asked to respect the garden by not touching, walking, or removing any of the topiaries.
Some unique features of Harpers Topiary Garden include:
- Over 50 life-sized topiary figurines
- All topiaries are trimmed by hand
- A variety of topiary shapes, including animals, dinosaurs, and a dragon
- Created by a couple who turned their front yard into a work of art
11. The “Sin Ship” Wreckage
The SS Monte Carlo is a concrete oil tanker launched in 1921. It was later converted into a gambling and prostitution ship that operated in international waters off the Long Beach Coast in California. The ship earned the nickname “The Sin Ship” due to its notorious activities.
In 1937, during a storm, the SS Monte Carlo crashed, and its wreck can still be found on a beach in Coronado. The wreckage of the ship is one of the hidden gems of San Diego, and it is observable without diving gear.
The SS Monte Carlo is a unique attraction in San Diego due to its history and the fact that it is one of the few shipwrecks in the Americas that can be observed without diving gear. The wreck is located on a beach in Coronado, and visitors can explore the ship’s remains.
Some unique features of the SS Monte Carlo wreckage include:
- The shipwreck is visible from the shore, making it accessible to all visitors.
- A window into San Diego’s past and the Prohibition era is offered by the wreckage.
- The shipwreck is a popular spot for photography and exploration.
12. Wat Sovannkiri
Wat Sovannkiri is a Cambodian and Laotian temple in City Heights, San Diego. As of March 11, 2024, it is a hidden gem not widely known to tourists. I was lucky enough to stumble upon it while exploring the area.
Prom Khian Attagutto, the head monk in the two temples, holds the temple. Before 2005, one of the temples was actually a Christian church. It has since become a second temple across the street, primarily used for meditation and prayer.
One of the unique features of Wat Sovannkiri is its distinct structure. Surrounding the temples with protection, such as angels, guardians, warriors, lions, and dragons, keeps away the evil. The temple’s intricate details and vibrant colors make it a beautiful sight to behold.
Visitors are welcome to explore the temple but are asked to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. It is a peaceful and serene place, perfect for those seeking a moment of quiet reflection.
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13. Queen Califa’s Magical Circle
Queen Califa’s Magical Circle is a unique and fascinating sculpture garden in Escondido, California’s Kit Carson Park. French-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle created the garden as a true hidden gem of San Diego County.
The garden features nine large-scale sculptures, a circular “snake wall,” and a maze entryway. The sculptures are inspired by California’s mythic, historical, and cultural roots. The garden is a beautiful and colorful display of art that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Here are some unique features of Queen Califa’s Magical Circle:
- Only American sculpture garden and the last major international project created by Niki de Saint Phalle
- Large-scale sculptures inspired by California’s mythic, historical, and cultural roots
- Circular “snake wall” and maze entryway
- A colorful and beautiful display of art
14. El Prado Courtyard
El Prado Courtyard is a hidden gem located in Balboa Park, San Diego. As a local, I can confidently say that this is one of the most charming spots in the city. Here are some unique features of this place:
- The courtyard is surrounded by exquisite architecture and gardens, making it a perfect spot for taking pictures.
- The courtyard also has a beautiful tiled fountain that adds to its charm.
- String lights decorate the area, making it a romantic spot for a date or a peaceful place to relax and unwind.
- The El Prado restaurant is a favorite Mexican spot for San Diego locals, and it’s located right next to the courtyard.
I highly recommend taking a stroll through the enchanting El Prado Courtyard. It’s hard to notice, but you’ll be drawn to its beauty once you catch a glimpse. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peaceful moments.
15. Self-Realization Fellowship In Encinitas
Self Realization Fellowship is a spiritual organization founded by Paramahansa Yogananda in 1920. The Encinitas branch of Self Realization Fellowship is located in the beautiful seaside town of Encinitas, California. It is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful and serene environment for meditation and self-reflection.
The unique features of Self Realization Fellowship in Encinitas include:
- The Hermitage Self-Realization Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden with koi ponds, waterfalls, and benches for meditation.
- Scripture readings, meditations, inspiring lecture services, and meditation classes are all part of the Encinitas Temple’s comprehensive program.
- The Books & Gifts store offers a complete selection of SRF books, recordings, and other publications.
I recommend visiting Self Realization Fellowship in Encinitas for a spiritual retreat or a day trip. The gardens and temple are open to the public and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
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16. Robert’s Cottages In Oceanside
Robert’s Cottages is a unique beachfront accommodation option in Oceanside, California. These small pastel-colored homes are framed by carnations and geraniums planted throughout the area. They represent an important part of Oceanside’s early tourism industry.
The cottages were originally built in the late 1920s, 30s, and 40s and were known as cottage courts or traveler’s courts. Harry and Virginia Roberts purchased the iconic double row of homes in 1941, and within a dozen years, investors began to sell the quaint cottages individually. Ocean-view homes sold for $5,950, while second-row units went for $3,950.
Renovated in 1941, these unique beach buildings have become an iconic part of Oceanside’s history. The Mutual Building and Loan Association of Long Beach sold the beach cottages to Harry and Virginia Roberts in January 1941. The Oceanside Blade Tribune announced on June 11, 1941, that the cottages were being remodeled and renamed.
Unique Features
- A unique beachfront accommodation option in Oceanside, California.
- Small pastel-colored homes framed by carnations and geraniums are planted throughout the area.
- Iconic double row of homes built in the late 1920s, 30s, and 40s.
- Renovated in 1941, these unique beach buildings have become an iconic part of Oceanside’s history.
17. Bankers Hill Mini Mansions
Bankers Hill is a picturesque neighborhood in San Diego that is home to several historic mansions. The Bankers Hill Mini Mansions stand out as some of the most beautiful and grandiose. As a local, I have had the pleasure of admiring these hidden gems on several occasions, and I can confidently say that they are a must-see for anyone visiting San Diego.
One of the unique features of the Bankers Hill Mini Mansions is their architectural style. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these homes blend Victorian, Craftsman, and Mediterranean Revival styles. The result is a stunning display of intricate details, such as turrets, balconies, and stained glass windows that are sure to impress any architecture enthusiast.
Another aspect that makes the Bankers Hill Mini Mansions a hidden gem is their location. Tucked away in a quiet residential area, these homes offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood and admire the lush gardens and tree-lined streets surrounding these historic homes.
Read: Distance from San Diego to Los Angeles
18. Washington Street Skate Park
Washington Street Skate Park is a true hidden gem in San Diego, located underneath the Pacific highway bridge near Little Italy. As of Mon Mar 11, 2024, it is one of the coolest skateparks around!
The skatepark features a gnarly maze of bowls, spines, hips, spines – even an over-vert capsule. Of all the skateparks in San Diego, this one is the burliest, a throwback to skateboarding fringe years in the wilderness, and riders should expect weird kinks and challenging lines.
Some of the unique features of Washington Street Skate Park include:
- A 10-foot deep kidney-shaped bowl
- A 12-foot vert wall
- A 6-foot over-vert capsule
- A 5-foot mini-ramp
- A 7-foot bowl
- A 4-foot bowl
19. Harper’s Topiary Garden
Harper’s Topiary Garden is a hidden gem located in the Mission Hills neighborhood of San Diego. This unique garden is a work of art created by a couple, Alex and Edna Harper, who wanted to turn their front yard into a masterpiece that everyone could enjoy and appreciate.
The garden is home to over 50 life-sized topiary figures, all meticulously trimmed by hand. Visitors can gawk at the amazing shapes and designs of the shrubs, which include everything from animals to famous characters. Some of the most popular figures include dolphins, giraffes, and even Edward Scissorhands.
Harper’s Topiary Garden is unique because it was created out of a basic shrub-filled front yard about fifteen years ago. The owners decided to find a shape for their shrubs; the rest is history. The garden has become a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
Here are some of the unique features of Harper’s Topiary Garden:
- Over 50 life-sized topiary figures
- Meticulously trimmed by hand
- Includes animals, characters, and more
- Created out of a basic shrub-filled front yard
20. Shelter Island Japanese Friendship Bell
The Shelter Island Japanese Friendship Bell is a hidden gem in San Diego worth visiting. This bell was donated by the citizens of Yokohama, Japan, to San Diego in 1958 as a symbol of eternal friendship between the two cities. The bell is at the west end of Shelter Island, surrounded by a small park.
One of the unique features of the Japanese Friendship Bell is its sound. The bell’s sound is deep, resonant, and can be heard from a distance. The bell is rung during special occasions and events, such as the Cherry Blossom Festival in March. The park where the bell is also offers a beautiful view of San Diego Bay.
In addition to the bell, the park also features a beautiful Japanese garden. The garden is home to over 200 cherry blossom trees and other Japanese plants and flowers. Visitors can purchase tickets to the garden online.
Read: Read this Tour Guide Before Traveling to San Diego
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are some under-the-radar attractions in San Diego?
As a local, I can recommend visiting the Cabrillo National Monument, the Whaley House Museum, and the Marston House Museum & Gardens. Tourists often overlook these attractions but offer a unique perspective on the city’s history and culture.
Where can I find unique dining experiences in San Diego?
San Diego has a thriving food scene with many unique dining experiences. I recommend checking out the Little Italy neighborhood for some of the best Italian food in the city. For a more eclectic experience, visit the North Park neighborhood, known for its craft beer and diverse food options.
Can you recommend some lesser-known spots in San Diego for photography enthusiasts?
San Diego is a beautiful city with many hidden gems perfect for photography enthusiasts. I recommend visiting the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge, and the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park for stunning views and unique photo opportunities.
What are the must-visit hidden spots in Old Town San Diego?
Old Town San Diego is a historic neighborhood with many hidden gems. I recommend visiting the Heritage Park Victorian Village, the El Campo Santo Cemetery, and the Whaley House Museum to glimpse the city’s past.
Are there any secluded beaches or coastal areas in La Jolla worth exploring?
La Jolla is known for its beautiful beaches, but some lesser-known spots are worth exploring. I recommend visiting La Jolla Cove Beach, the La Jolla Tide Pools, and the Children’s Pool Beach for a more secluded and peaceful beach experience.
Conclusion
San Diego is a city full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This city has something for everyone, from the haunted Villa Montezuma to the stunning Torrey Pines State Beach. Visitors can experience San Diego uniquely and authentically by exploring the lesser-known areas.
It’s important to remember that these hidden gems are not just for tourists but for locals as well. San Diego residents can benefit from exploring their city and discovering new places to enjoy.
I encourage readers to take action and explore these hidden gems for themselves. Share your experiences on social media and engage in a conversation about your favorite San Diego spots.
As a final thought, I leave you with this quote by John Muir: “The mountains are calling, and I must go.” So go out and explore San Diego’s hidden gems and discover the beauty of this city for yourself.
