California's second largest city and the United States' eighth largest, San Diego is loved for its diverse charms. The neighbourhoods of downtown's historic Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, Coronado, La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Escondido, La Mesa, Hillcrest, Barrio Logan and Chula Vista are all completely different, each unique, each with its own flavour. And that's just the start. If you adore diverse places, walk this way...
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Southern California Highlights
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To the east of the city is the historic mining town of Julian and the immense Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, rich in opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing and wildlife watching.
To the north you'll find stunning agricultural land rich in wineries and fruit farms, flower-filled fields, elegant restaurants and posh resorts.
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There are 92 golf courses in San Diego county
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Balboa Park, the USA's biggest urban park, contains 15 museums and art galleries
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Wikipedia lists just under 40 different beaches in San Diego alone
To the west there's the ocean, to the south there's Mexico. And the Big Bay provides 34 miles of scenic waterfront.
A series of huge canyons separates the 25 to 30 different communities that make up this vibrant, friendly city. Look closely and each has its own personality.
San Diego Bay offers an impressive 34 miles of scenic waterfront with endless restaurants, shops, attractions, parks and marinas, all spread across seven distinct areas, each with its own unique vibe. You could cycle the lot in a day with a bit of effort, otherwise it's there waiting for you to explore at your leisure: Harbour Island, Shelter Island, Embarcadero, Coronado, National City, Chula Vista and Imperial Beach. Make this your California destination if you love a flutter. San Diego delivers Las Vegas style casino gaming just 40 minutes from downtown, perfect for 24/7 gambling action and entertainment. Or treat yourself to a session at one of the city's many gorgeous luxury spa sanctuaries and come home feeling very, very good indeed.
From December to April you can go whale watching as 20,000 huge grey whales rest here on their 10,000 mile annual journey between the freezing Alaskan seas to the warm lagoons of Baja, California, where they give birth. Outdoor shopping malls, shopping centres, vintage and antique stores, cool local boutiques, plus some of the finest international shopping in California, is yours in and around the city. Plus there are a load of excellent bargain outlet centres where you can buy desirable designer stuff for a fraction of the retail price. Happy shopper? You will be!