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This landmark destination and heart of San Diego offers an array of superb activities. Visit its gardens and museums for inspiration, to play sports, or to watch a concert. Although crowded, Sundays are good days to experience the community at leisure (see Balboa Park).

Fountain at Balboa Park

This aquatic wonder-land offers every watersport conceivable. You can also bicycle, play volleyball, jog, or nap on the grass. Excellent park facilities include boat rentals, playgrounds, fire rings, and picnic tables.

Broad lawns shaded by palms and Monterrey cypress trees stretch the cliffs from La Jolla Cove to Children’s Pool (see Birch Aquarium at Scripps). Visitors can walk along promenades that offer a stunning view of the cliffs and beach of Torrey Pines.

At one of the country’s largest urban parks, hiking and biking trails wind along rugged hills and valleys. The San Diego River cuts through the middle, and a popular trail leads to the Old Mission Dam. The energetic can hike up Cowles Mountain, San Diego’s highest peak at 1,591 ft (485 m).

Archeologists discovered artifacts of the prehistoric La Jolla culture in this ancient canyon. You can also explore the adobe home of San Diego’s first Mexican land grant family. Between two large coastal canyons, trails lead past woodland, oak trees, chaparral, and a waterfall.

Named in honor of the mother of Balboa Park (see The Mother of Balboa Park), this peaceful spot, with a terrific view of Mission Bay (see Mission Bay Beaches), is a popular picnicking area. Take advantage of the ocean breezes to rediscover kite flying. Walking trails extend 2 miles (3 km) through a canyon lined with native coastal sage.

A stretch of California’s wild coast (see Torrey Pines State Reserve) offers a glimpse into an ancient ecosystem. Wild-flowers bloom alongside hiking trails that lead past rare Torrey pines and 300 other endangered species. Viewing platforms overlook sandstone cliffs to the beach below. Spot quail, mule deer, foxes, and coyotes.

Named after John D. Spreckels (see John D. Spreckels (1853–1926)), who donated the land, the park hosts Sunday concerts during the summer as well as art and garden shows. An old-fashioned bandstand, shady trees, green lawns, and picnic tables complete the picture of a small-town community center.

Join the downtown workers for some fresh air and sunshine. Wide grassy areas and benches give you solitude to enjoy the sweeping views of the harbor. During summer, concerts are held on the lawn.

Serene hiking paths meander through fields of wildflowers and native plants. More than 300 species of migratory birds stop by at different times of the year. A visitor center offers information to enhance your visit.