San Diego Hidden Gems: written by a local

San Diego is home to beautiful beaches, tons of tourist attractions, and in recent years has become a foodie paradise. With that comes high tourism and lots of crowds. But did you know that San Diego also has a few best-kept secrets all around the county? Well, my friends, I am here to spill all the details! Having lived in San Diego for almost 15 years I think it’s safe to say I’ve found my fair share of San Diego hidden gems. In this guide, I’ll outline all 20+ of them below!

Shelter Island Japanese Friendship Bell

Did you know that San Diego has a Japanese Friendship Bell? Well, I didn’t either! The Yokohama Friendship bell was commemorated in 1958 as part of the Centennial Celebration of formal relations between the USA and Japan. It also marks the establishment of the two sister cities: Yokohama and San Diego. Also, the park across the street has stunning views of the San Diego skyline.

Free to Visit
Located at 1401 Shelter Island Drive

Scripps Coastal Meander

My personal favorite San Diego hidden gems is the Scripps Coastal Meander. This wooden boardwalk is short but the views make up for it! Overlooking the Scripps Pier and La Jolla coastline this trail is perfect for a short morning walk. If you visit after 5 pm, check out the building at the end pictured above (it’s used for UCSD research during business hours so you can get in trouble if visiting during those times). But has some of the best sunset views in all of San Diego.

Free to Visit
Scripps Institution of Oceanography 9234-9218, La Jolla Shores Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
If you Park on La Jolla Shores Drive cramp your wheels to the curb. They give out tickets like crazy!

La Jolla Hidden Bench

The La Jolla hidden bench is a locals secret that is located North of the Scripps Coastal Meander. In order to access it, you need to locate the bridge going across La Jolla Shores Drive. Go down the staircase to the bottom level, and look for a brown wooden building. Behind there you’ll see a wooden step footpath situation walk up to it and you’ll spot the hidden bench. It has the same great views as the meander but is more secluded. This video goes into more detail!

La Jolla Secret Swings

There are a few secret swings in the La Jolla area. The La Jolla secret swings are a San Diego legend and they are pretty easy to find if you know where to look. The one pictured on the left is located at the south end of the Birch Aquarium parking lot. There you will find a small path between two bushes and a hill. Hike about 100 feet to the top of that hill and the swing will be there. There have been many times where this swing was taken down so don’t be too disappointed if that happens to you. Last visited in February 2022 swing was down.

The south end of Birch Aquarium Parking lot
You have to walk uphill to access so wear proper shoes

The swing on the right is located off of the Coastal Trail Walk. Once you see the white pedestrian bridge you’ll have to climb over on the left side and walk down the cliff. There is a rope to assist you and it isn’t as high up as you may think. You can even take the trail down to the water if you’re feeling adventourous.

Annie’s Canyon Hike

Did you know that San Diego has a slot canyon? Well, we do! It’s called Annies Canyon hike and is located in Solana Beach. This IG video has all the details you need to know before visiting.

Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

Located in a gift shop called “The Cave Store” Sunny Jims Sea Cave is an old prohibition smugglers’ cave built in 1902. If you look at the cave you can see his nose on the left hence the name Sunny Jim. The Cave Store has been operating tours of the cave since 1905. Tours are self-guided and last approximately 15 minutes. There is a long staircase in order to access the cave and is quite tight and slippery. Finally, tours are operated daily from 9 am – 4:30 pm. Find out more information here.

Adults $10, Kids $6
Address: 1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037

Harpers Topiary Garden

Harpers Topiary Garden in Mission Hills is reminiscent of Edward Scissorhands garden. The landscaping skill of this private home is truly off the charts. Another fun free thing to do in San Diego. Please note, that it’s on a quiet residential street so be respectful of the neighborhood.

Free to visit
Address: 3549 Union St, San Diego, CA 92103

Spruce Street Suspension Bridge

The Spruce Street suspension bridge is a footbridge built in 1912. It was built intended for pedestrians to cross over a deep canyon in the neighborhood of Mission Hills. This local spot has beautiful views over the canyon (70 feet below) and is part of the “San Diego’s 7 Bridges Hike“.

Free to visit
Address: W Spruce St, San Diego, 92103
The bridge moves as you walk so be aware!

Sunset Cliffs Open Ceiling Cave

One of those places that you have to see to believe. This massive sea cave is an incredible spot to check out. It’s extremely difficult to reach and can only be done during the negative tide. This article outlines how to get to the open ceiling cave. Before attempting to do so, make sure you are a skilled swimmer, have some rock climbing knowledge, and have the proper gear.

Coronado Sand Dunes

Did you know that there is a secret message hidden in the Coronado Sand Dunes? They may just look like regular sand dunes to the naked eye but from a birds-eye view it reads “Coronado”. Back in the 1980s, the man in charge of cleaning up the seaweed didn’t know what to do with all of it so he wrote out this secret message. Fun fact! Find out more at coronadotimes.com (above photo credit).

Balboa Park Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden is such a hidden gem! This 12-acre garden within Balboa Park opened to the public in 1991. It’s an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city Yokohama. The most popular time to visit the garden is during the Cherry Blossom Festival in March. It’s home to over 200 Cherry Blossom trees and is truly a magical experience if you can visit during that time. You can purchase tickets online here.

Tickets are $12 per person
Address: 2215 Pan American Rd E. San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego residents are free to enter every third Tuesday of the Month

Balboa Park Cactus Garden

The historic Old Cactus Garden was developed back in 1935 and is still intact today. Some of the largest succulents located in the park are here and have a unique view of the Cabrillo Bridge. It’s located behind the Balboa Park Club building and is home to many feral cats.

El Prado Courtyard

In Balboa Park, the El Prado Courtyard is such a hidden gem! It’s hard to notice but once you catch a glimpse you’ll be drawn to the charming architecture, string lights, and tiled fountain. Finally, the El Prado restaurant is a favorite Mexican spot for San Diego locals

Self Realization Fellowship in Encinitas

The Self Realization Fellowship was founded in 1920 by Paramahansa Yogananda. It is home to multiple meditation gardens providing the community with a place to pray, study, or relax. It’s filled with koi ponds, beautiful flora, and sweeping views of the Encinitas coastline. It’s completely free to visit and the gardens are open Tuesday – Saturday 9 am – 5 pm.

Free to Visit
Address: 215 W. K Street, Encinitas
More info here

Encinitas Boat Houses

The Encinitas Boat Houses are an Encinitas legend. They are small houses shaped as boats and they make for a perfect photo opportunity. These are private residences so please be respectful and visit during normal hours. Finally, H Street park is down the block and one of my favorite views in all of Encinitas.

Free to visit
726 3rd St, Encinitas, CA

Robert’s Cottages in Oceanside

This charming historical landmark called “Roberts Cottages” is located in Oceanside directly across from the beach. They’re vintage beach homes that are all individually owned today. You can rent them out but only for a 7-day minimum. Finally, it’s perfect for a cute photo moment or to just take a walk down memory lane.

Bankers Hill Mini Mansions

I love coming to this area and marveling at all the gorgeous homes or “mini-mansions” as San Diego likes to call them. They make for some incredible backdrops and the above photo is located at 435 W Thorn Ave. It’s the most perfect Italian-style villa of my dreams!

Thank you for reading my “19 San Diego Hidden Gems – written by a local” post! I hope you enjoy these fun activities and for more Things to Do in San Diego – check out my Ultimate San Diego Travel Guide.