If you're planning a vacation to
California, you should really consider the San Diego area. There is multitude
of activities and sights to see; you probably won't have enough time to do it
all!
To make your San Diego vacation is one to
remember, be sure to start plenty ahead of time. It's possible to purchase
tickets online for such attractions as Sea World and the San Diego Zoo, which
are usually available at a discount when purchasing in advance. There is
something for everyone, depending on what you have in mind. Torrey Pines State
Park offers room to run with viewing of wild rare birds and a stately abundance
of pine trees, which of course, gives the historic park its name.
With
such a wide variety of activities, events, restaurants, and lodging, you can
plan your trip on a budget or spend lavishly, whichever you prefer. Such
historic sites as the Hotel del Coronado, offer upscale shopping, dining, and
informative tours as well as fine overnight accommodations. Many festive
occasions take place at this ocean side historic landmark; grand weddings being
the most popular. There are many family friendly activities also available,
such as bike rentals, swimming, and sand toys to rent. This grand old hotel is
also rumored to be haunted, something for those who enjoy the paranormal!
The San
Diego Zoo - The San Diego Zoo is one of the most popular
attractions. It is considered to be America's best, and one of the most famous
zoos also, with many of the rarest animals on display. According to Frommer's,
a well respected travel publication, the zoo serves as residence to over 4,000
different creatures and is operated by the Zoological Society of San Diego.
Plan on spending a whole day and then some meandering through the many paved
walkways of the park, or you can take the popular tramway for a wonder aerial
overview. There can sometimes be a wait for some of the zoos newest and most
popular exhibits, but all well worth it! Bring your camera and take lots of
pictures, the animals love the attention!
The
San Diego Zoo is located at
15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, 35 miles north of the San Diego Zoo and east of
Escondido. San Diego Zoo is open 9 a.m. to
4 p.m. (grounds close at 5 p.m.) thru June 16.
From June 17 thru September 4 the San Diego Zoo is open
9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (grounds close at 9 p.m. For more information call
(858) 748-9250 or visit the San Diego Zoo online.
Sea World
-
Another
must see attraction is Sea World, home of Shamu
and as of December, 2004, Baby Shamu, the killer whales. These spectacular
creatures put on shows daily exhibiting their unique relationships and many
talents. Watch out for the big splash if you're sitting in the front rows!
Brrrrr! When the killer whales make their dives, they splash chilly 55 degree
salt water on the closest fans; an exciting, wet experience!
Sea World
in San Diego is located at 500 SeaWorld Drive. Take Interstate 5,
Exit Sea World Dr. and head west one mile. Seaworld is open Sunday 10a.m. -
7:30p.m, Monday - Friday from 10a.m. - 6p.m. Saturday 9a.m. - 9p.m. Sunday
10a.m. - 7:30p.m. For Sea World's schedule call (800)
25-SHAMU or visit Sea World online.
Where ever you stay, or what attractions you see,
you won't be disappointed by the over abundance of things to do or experience
in San Diego. Fine dining on the wharf, or shopping in Gaslamp Quarter, the
possibilities are endless. Bring the kids or leave them with the grandparents
for a romantic trip for two, you can't go wrong!
Plan Your Trip
Theses are only a sampling of the many
events coming ahead this season, which are part of what makes San Diego is an
ideal getaway destination any time of the year! To discover more on upcoming
events, packages, valuable coupons for attractions, restaurants and more, visit
the San Diego Convention & Visitors Bureau's Web site,
www.sandiego.org or call 619-236-1212.
To learn more about events and attractions throughout California, visit the
California Travel and
Tourism Commission for packages and to order a Free Vacation Guide.
About the Author
- Rob Forre is a featured writer for California Real Estate
Central. To learn more about taking a San Diego vacation... visit us.