San Diego is a city that seems made for touring. With its mix of bustling neighborhoods, historic landmarks, scenic beaches, and a lively waterfront, there’s no shortage of ways to see the sights. What we especially like are tours that combine fun with education—like the San Diego: SEAL City Tour by Amphibious Bus, which offers a quirky land-and-sea adventure, and the City Cruises San Diego: Best of the Bay Scenic Harbor Tour, that lets you glide past navy ships and the Coronado Bridge. Whether you’re into historic ships, vibrant nightlife, or just the best views, San Diego has a tour for you.
Quick Overview
Our list covers a variety of tour types including amphibious bus rides, night trolley tours, harbor cruises, beach and city combo tours, and even self-guided scavenger hunts. For those seeking a full day of sightseeing, the Most Extensive City & Beach Tour provides a rundown. If you prefer something more relaxed and scenic, the Buffet Breakfast and Brunch Cruise offers both great food and views. And for the tech-savvy or active explorer, the Segway tour with a snack break combines fun and fitness. Read on for a detailed look at each.
1. San Diego: SEAL City Tour by Amphibious Bus
This tour is a real crowd-pleaser, blending a classic city tour with the novelty of an amphibious vehicle. It starts with a land ride through San Diego’s neighborhoods, then splashes into the bay for a water cruise. The highlight? Driving into the water and floating, which delights kids and adults alike. As you pass by landmarks like the USS Midway and the Star of India, your knowledgeable guide shares stories that make history come alive.
What makes this tour stand out is its interactive nature and the chance to see wildlife at Shelter Island. It’s perfect for families or first-timers who want a bit of everything—landmarks, wildlife, and a splash of adventure. With a 4.6-star rating based on nearly 600 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a fun, informative experience for just $53. The 100-minute duration hits a sweet spot for sightseeing without wearing you out.
Bottom Line: For a quirky, engaging introduction to San Diego, this amphibious tour offers great value and memorable moments—especially if you enjoy hands-on experiences.
2. San Diego: City Lights Night Trolley Tour
If you’re after a picture-perfect evening, this tour delivers the city illuminated in all its glory. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll hop aboard a trolley that takes you past Gaslamp Quarter’s vibrant nightlife, Balboa Park’s beautifully lit architecture, and the Coronado Bridge. The ride includes a 20-minute stop at Coronado’s Ferry Landing, offering stunning views of the skyline and the bay.
What sets this apart is the combination of nighttime scenery, music, and narration—making it more than just a drive. Reviewers love the spectacular views, with some saying it’s a fantastic way to see San Diego’s sparkle. At $44 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy the city after dark without the hassle of navigating on your own.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who love city lights and a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s a romantic choice or a fun intro for first-time visitors.
3. City Cruises San Diego: Best of the Bay Scenic Harbor Tour
For about $37, this cruise offers a comfortable, scenic ride around San Diego Bay, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You’ll see the iconic Coronado Bay Bridge, Navy ships docked along the shore, and learn about the bay’s restoration efforts from onboard narration. The yacht’s observation deck provides excellent views, especially if you’re interested in navy history or marine life.
What makes this tour appealing is its informative commentary and the chance to see marine habitat efforts firsthand. Its reviews highlight the ease of the experience and the beauty of the bay. This 1.5-hour cruise provides a calm, scenic escape from the city’s hustle.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for travelers looking for a laid-back, scenic experience with a bit of educational content.
4. San Diego: City Cruises Buffet Breakfast and Brunch Cruise
Starting at $95, this 2-hour cruise combines gourmet dining with spectacular waterfront views. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a leisurely brunch with a view. The full buffet includes seasonal dishes, and you’ll be seated at private tables while sipping free-flowing champagne or sparkling cider.
What makes this cruise special is the combination of culinary indulgence and scenic cruising. The onboard narration offers insights into San Diego’s landmarks, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for couples or groups wanting a laid-back morning or early afternoon.
Bottom Line: Best for food lovers and those wanting a luxurious, relaxed experience on the water.
5. San Diego: The Most Extensive City & Beach Tour
At 6 hours and $99.99, this tour offers a deep dive into San Diego’s highlights. It covers neighborhoods like Little Italy, Seaport Village, and historic landmarks such as the Hotel Del Coronado and La Jolla Cove. Guided by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll enjoy live narration and video footage, making it ideal for travelers with limited time wanting a rundown.
The tour’s small group size (max 14) ensures personalized attention. The itinerary includes a ride over the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge and stops in Coronado and La Jolla—two must-see destinations. With many positive reviews praising its efficiency and informative nature, this tour balances depth with manageable time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-timers eager to see multiple key sights with a friendly guide, especially if time is tight.
6. San Diego: City and Beaches Guided Highlights Tour
For $107, this 6.5-hour guided bus tour hits five major spots: Balboa Park, Old Town, Coronado, La Jolla Cove, and Mount Soledad. It’s an excellent option if you want a well-rounded introduction to San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods and natural beauty.
The tour includes stops in Balboa Park’s lush gardens, the historic Old Town, and the oceanfront in La Jolla Cove, along with panoramic views from Mount Soledad. Guests appreciate the expert narration and manageable pacing, making it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive yet comfortable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to cover a lot of ground in one day while soaking in San Diego’s natural and historic highlights.
7. San Diego City Lights Night Tour
This shorter, 1.5-hour tour at $46 offers a quick glimpse of San Diego’s nightscape. It covers Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, and the Embarcadero, with a special ride to the top of the Coronado Bridge. You’ll see the city’s landmarks lit up, with views of the USS Midway and Star of India.
While some reviews note it’s a bit shorter than the others, people love the lively narration and lively atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed evening tour without committing to a full night out.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers with limited time who want a fun, scenic overview of San Diego’s night sights.
8. San Diego: Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions
For $104, this flexible pass unlocks access to over 45 attractions, including tours, museums, and activities. This is a great option if you want a customized San Diego experience, hopping on a trolley, visiting the USS Midway, or riding bikes along the waterfront.
The value here is significant, especially if you plan to visit multiple places. The pass is valid for 30 days, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace. It’s perfect for independent travelers who want maximum flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers with a packed schedule wanting to maximize their sightseeing without buying individual tickets.
$104 per person
9. San Diego: City Segway Tour with Snack and Water
For $199, this 2-hour Segway tour offers an active way to explore. You’ll cruise along the waterfront, passing Gaslamp Quarter, Embarcadero, and Petco Park. The route is flat and beginner-friendly, making it accessible to most.
The tour includes a snack break and water, which helps keep energy up. Guests rave about the fun and easy experience, with one reviewer mentioning that it’s perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise.
Bottom Line: A fun, active choice for those comfortable on a Segway and wanting to see San Diego in a playful way.
10. Private Transfer from San Diego (SAN) Airport to San Diego City
If you’re arriving in San Diego, this private transfer for up to 3 people guarantees stress-free arrival. For about $84, your driver will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your hotel.
It’s a practical option for avoiding long taxi lines or shared shuttles, especially after a long flight. The service is praised for its professional drivers and clean vehicles.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for hassle-free airport arrival, especially for small groups or couples.
$84.42 per group (up to 3)
11. San Diego: The Ultimate City Night Tour
Spending 4 hours and costing about $75, this tour offers a comprehensive night exploration. Starting at the Gaslamp and Little Italy, it moves through Balboa Park, the Embarcadero, and over the Coronado Bridge to the Hotel Del Coronado, with several stops to soak in the atmosphere.
Although this tour has no reviews yet, its itinerary suggests a deep dive into San Diego’s illuminated landmarks. It’s suitable for those wanting a full evening of sightseeing and city lights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls and travelers eager for an extensive look at San Diego after dark.
$74.99 per person
12. Explore Escondido with a Scavenger Hunt by Operation City Quest
For just $10, this interactive scavenger hunt offers a fun way to discover Escondido. Using an app, you’ll submit photos and complete challenges around the city, with a remote host available for support.
This tour is ideal if you prefer self-guided, gamified exploration over traditional tours. It’s suitable for families or groups looking for a lighthearted adventure that combines sightseeing with friendly competition.
Bottom Line: Great for budget-conscious travelers wanting a self-paced, fun activity.
$10.00 per person
13. Scavenger Hunt in San Diego by Operation City Quest
This app-led scavenger hunt covers San Diego’s landmarks and neighborhoods for about $10. It takes around 2 hours and allows you to explore at your own pace, answering trivia and solving clues.
The activity is a good choice for independent explorers who want to avoid large groups and enjoy a personalized adventure. Many reviewers appreciate the all-included pricing and the chance to make lasting memories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a self-directed, interactive way to see San Diego’s sights.
$10.00 per person
14. Private Transfer from San Diego City Hotels to San Diego Port
For about $70, this door-to-door service makes catching your cruise or departing hassle-free. Your driver will meet you at your hotel or address and take you directly to the port in a clean vehicle.
It’s a practical solution for stress-free travel logistics, especially if you’re on a schedule. Reviews note the professional service and smooth experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for convenient, private transportation to the cruise port.
$70.38 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in San Diego
When picking your ideal tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a family-friendly adventure, the amphibious SEAL City Tour offers a mix of land and sea fun. For those seeking scenic views with a touch of luxury, the Brunch Cruise or the All-Inclusive Pass might be perfect.
If you prefer exploring independently and flexibly, the scavenger hunts (Escondido and San Diego) allow you to set your pace. For nighttime cityscapes, the City Lights Night Trolley and Ultimate Night Tour showcase San Diego’s illuminated beauty.
Lastly, for convenience, the private airport and port transfers ensure your trip starts and ends smoothly. Booking early and considering your group’s size and interests will help you choose the best fit.
In summary, San Diego offers a rich array of city tours suited for every traveler. For a fun, family-friendly adventure, the amphibious SEAL City Tour is hard to beat. If relaxation and scenery are your priorities, try the Harbor Cruise. For a full-day immersion into the city’s highlights, the Most Extensive City & Beach Tour is an excellent choice. No matter your style, San Diego’s diverse tours are ready to make your visit memorable—just remember to book early, especially during peak season!