San Diego With Kids: A Family Adventure Guide

Last Updated on August 7, 2025 by Polly Dimitrova

With its year-round sunshine, diverse attractions and coastal charm, San Diego is one of California’s best destinations for a family vacation. Whether you are traveling with toddlers or teens, the city offers and ideal mix of educational experiences, outdoor fun, and unforgettable memories. Here is our ultimate guide to exploring San Diego with kids.

Balboa Park

Balboa Park is an absolutely massive 1,200 acres urban cultural park that combines museums, gardens, and family-friendly spaces. Whether your kids love science, animals, trains, or just running wild, there is something here for every age and energy level. You might be planning only a quick visit, but Balboa Park is easily a full-day adventure. Trust me, we have done numerous visits, and still haven’t been able to cover all of it. From stroller-friendly paths to hands-on exhibits, it’s one of the best places to visit in San Diego with kids year-round!

Top Things to Do in Balboa Park with Kids:

• Fleet Science Center – A hands-on science museum packed with interactive exhibits that encourage kids to explore, build, and experiment. While toddlers would love designing and creating using real tools and materials, older children will be thrilled about the IMAX theater showing educational films that are perfect for a mid-day break.
• San Diego Model Railroad Museum – Surprisingly fun for all ages, with miniature worlds and working trains. With sprawling model train layouts, tiny towns, and moving locomotives, could there be anything more fun, especially, if you are in San Diego during a rainy day.
• Japanese Friendship Garden – This might not be super exciting for older children, but that’s actually the first place we took our son when he was still a newborn. It is a peaceful break from the busier parts of the park. Featuring koi ponds, bridges, and walking paths, it is a great spot to slow down, let kids look for fish and turtles, and enjoy a quieter moment in nature.
• Balboa Park Carousel – A beautifully preserved carousel from 1910 full of hand-carved animals and vintage charm. The ride is short, affordable, and often a highlight for younger children.
• Pepper Grove Playground – Right near many of the major museums, this large, shady playground has plenty of climbing structures, swings, and space to run free. It is a great stop to burn off some energy before heading to your next museum or lunch spot.
• Balboa Park Scavenger Hunt – perfect for families traveling with older children to San Diego

Note: Balboa Park offers free parking, but you need to arrive very early on weekends to get a spot near the entrance. Alternatively, there are tram shuttles running regularly from each parking lot. Your stroller would need to fold very small to be able to get it on board.

San Diego Zoo

No visit to San Diego with kids is complete without stopping at the San Diego Zoo. As part of Balboa Park, this is a globally renowned zoo, home to more than 12,000 animals across 650 species. Families can explore lush, beautifully designed habitats that mimic the animals’ natural environments. Highlights include the Polar Bear Plunge, Elephant Odyssey, and the relatively new Panda Ridge. The Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is a must for younger kids, offering climbing zones, interactive exhibits, and up-close animal encounters.

While you can rent a stroller I strongly recommend brining your own, especially if you have little ones, since you need to be prepared for lots of walking! There are also numerous family-friendly dining options throughout the park, but it is always more affordable to bring your own snacks. The zoo is perfectly designed for a full day of animal-filled adventure. Keep in mind that the San Diego Zoo is absolutely enormous. We have visited many times and I still find something new each visit.

Pro Tip: The guided bus tour and Skyfari aerial tram are both included with admission — and they are fun, relaxing ways to get around without tiring little legs.

Safari Park

Just 40 minutes drive from downtown, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park will let your family step into an African savanna. Spread across 1,800 acres, the park is home to over 3,500 animals, including rhinos, giraffes, antelopes, and exotic birds roaming in expansive, naturalistic habitats. For the adventurous family, the Flightline Safari zipline offers a bird’s-eye view of zebras, wildebeests, and more, but keep in mind the age limit. The Walkabout Australia exhibit might be better for the younger kids, where kangaroos and wallabies roam freely — a hands-on, immersive experience that is also perfect for photo opportunities.

Overall, The Safari Park is a fantastic way to introduce kids to wildlife conservation while enjoying an unforgettable San Diego adventure far from the typical city zoo experiences.

Pro Tip: Definitely plan on bringing a stroller, since there will be lots of walking. Hats, sunscreen and glasses are also essential if you are visiting on a sunny day.

LEGOLAND California

Pro Tip: Download the LEGOLAND app before your visit. It allows you to plan your day, check wait times on-site, and make sure you hit the rides and attractions your kids will love most. For even more detailed tips, check out my full LEGOLAND guide here.

Beach Days

With so many days filled with adventures and fun, spending a relaxing day at the beach is always a good idea at the San Diego’s coastline. The best thing is that you will find numerous family-friendly beaches, each offering something a little different for both little explorers and their parents. What I love about beach days is that you do not need any plan and very little prep time. Moreover, the soft sand, gentle waves, and scenic views make beach days a must when visiting San Diego with kids:

• La Jolla Shores – Perfect for toddlers and younger kids, the calm waters make it safe for wading and splashing, while the nearby playgrounds and picnic areas are great for breaks. Kayaking and snorkeling are fun options for older kids.
• Mission Beach & Pacific Beach – Ideal for families looking for a lively atmosphere, boardwalk fun, and casual dining. The gentle waves are suitable for beginner surfers, and the iconic Belmont Park amusement area keeps kids entertained off the sand.
• Coronado Central Beach – Known for its wide, flat sand, this beach is perfect for running, sandcastle building, and kite flying. Its proximity to the Hotel del Coronado means easy access to restrooms, rentals, and cafes.

To make the most of your beach days at the San Diego coastline, make sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water — the San Diego sun can be strong. On the bright side, though, there is no winter in California, so even if you are visiting in January, you can plan to stop by the beach. I always make sure to pack snacks and a change of clothes for little ones, because trust me they will want to splash and play in the water (even when it feels too cold). You will be able to find parking along the beaches, but the lots fill up quickly, so visiting on a weekday and early in the morning is always a good idea.

Whether you are building sandcastles, playing in the ocean, or just soaking in the sun, a beach day of is the perfect opportunity for family fun when visiting San Diego with kids.

Jump on the Train

Birch Aquarium

Despite being relatively small, Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography has been one of the things we have loved the most when exploring San Diego with kids. Very easily walkable, you only need 2 hours or so for your visit, which makes it ideal if you are running on your younger child’s schedule (if you know, you know!). If you have older children, though, you can pair the visit with a trip to nearby La Jolla Shores Beach for a full day of family fun.

The aquarium features interactive exhibits, tide pools, and fascinating marine life from the Pacific Ocean, including colorful fish, sharks, and playful sea stars. It is a hands-on and educational experience that encourages kids to learn about the ocean while still fitting easily into a San Diego family-friendly itinerary.

Highlights for kids:

• Tide pool experiences – allows children to touch sea stars, urchins, and other tide pool creatures
• Outdoor plaza – offers stunning ocean views, picnic areas, and space for kids to run around
• The Penguin Habitat – adorable penguins swim, waddle, and play, always a favorite for younger children and makes for great photo opportunities, because who doesn’t love the playful penguins?

Pro Tips: Definitely try visiting during weekday mornings for smaller crowds and a calmer experience. The Aquarium has a free parking, but spots fill up fast on weekends.

San Diego Botanic Garden

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Adventure awaits all families who decide to visit Torrey Pines State Reserve. Located along the coast, the reserve features scenic cliffs, coastal trails, and rare Torrey pine trees, offering a peaceful break from the city.

The trails range from easy to moderate, making it suitable for families with older kids who can handle a short hike. Little ones will love picking rocks along the way and climbing wherever possible. The views of the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking and provide plenty of photo opportunities.

The Guy Fleming trail is the most popular hiking trail and as a 0.8-mile loop can be ideal for little legs, but you can also explore around and see what would catch your attention the most. Keep in mind to bring lots of water, apply sunscreen and where hats, as there is only limited shade on the trails. Depending on how much time you want to spend you can easily do just a quick hike along Torrey Pine, for combine with a trip to the beach and have a full day of San Diego family activities.

I definitely recommend visiting in the early mornings or weekdays are best for avoiding crowds and finding parking more easily. The time right before sunset is also fabulous, as you can admire the sun setting behind the horizon with sun rays reflecting into the peaceful ocean waters – a truly remarkable sight.

Seaport Village and The Waterfront Park

For families looking for a relaxed, scenic spot to enjoy the waterfront, Seaport Village is a must-visit. This charming area features quaint shops, casual dining, and street performers, making it a fun stop even if you are just strolling. Kids will love watching the boats in the harbor and exploring the open spaces.

Just a short walk away, Waterfront Park offers large grassy areas, splash fountains, and playgrounds — perfect for children to run, play, and cool off on warm San Diego days. The combination of water features and open space makes it ideal for a picnic or a casual family break between sightseeing adventures. At the same time, though, you can combine the visit with a harbor cruise or nearby attractions like the USS Midway Museum for a full day of family fun in San Diego.

More San Diego Family-Friendly Activities:

Practical Tips for Families visiting San Diego with kids

San Diego is easily one of the best U.S. cities for kids, and with a little planning, your family trip can be smooth and stress-free. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your visit:

• Plan Around Kids’ Schedules: Consider nap times, meals, and bathroom breaks when planning your day. Many attractions, like Birch Aquarium or San Diego Botanic Garden, are easy to explore in 1–2 hours if needed.
• Parking & Transportation: Parking can be limited at popular spots like Balboa Park and Torrey Pines. Arrive early or visit during weekdays for easier access. San Diego also has family-friendly public transport options like the Coaster and trolleys.
• Bring Essentials: Sunscreen, hats, refillable water bottles, snacks, and a small backpack with kid necessities will save you time and stress.
• Stroller-Friendly Planning: Many attractions are stroller-friendly, but some hiking trails and gardens have uneven paths. A lightweight stroller works best.
• Book in Advance: Popular attractions like LEGOLAND and the San Diego Zoo can get busy. Buying tickets online can save time, money, and frustration.
• Mix Indoor & Outdoor Activities: San Diego’s weather is great year-round, but alternating outdoor beach or park visits with indoor museums keeps kids energized and happy.
• Take Advantage of Family-Friendly Amenities: Many parks, gardens, and museums offer kid-specific areas, playgrounds, and interactive exhibits — plan to let kids explore freely.

San Diego offers a perfect mix of educational experiences, outdoor adventures, and relaxing coastal fun. From exploring Balboa Park’s museums and gardens, to spotting animals at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, to building sandcastles on sandy beaches, there is no shortage of activities to keep kids entertained and engaged. What is more you will find something for every age and interest – making it a must-visit destination for families.

Let me know in the comments below have you been to San Diego with kids? Which were your favorite San Diego family-friendly activities?