The best parks & outdoor spots in San Diego
11 parks & outdoor spots we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.
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Pepper Park
Parks & OutdoorsThis 5.5-acre park features a playground, a boat launch, picnic tables, a fishing pier & restrooms.
Pepper Park
Parks & OutdoorsSantee Lakes Recreation Preserve
Parks & OutdoorsStaycation spot for locals with 7 man-made lakes for camping, boating, fishing & picnics.
Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve
Parks & OutdoorsMt. Helix Park
Parks & OutdoorsHigh point offering views of San Diego, with a large amphitheater hosting plays, lectures & events.
Mt. Helix Park
Parks & OutdoorsCoronado Cays Park
Parks & OutdoorsPublic park offering a playground, a variety of athletic fields, and tennis and pickleball courts.
Coronado Cays Park
Parks & OutdoorsBarker Way Trailhead
Parks & OutdoorsLofty, kid-friendly summit, accessed via steep trails, with views of the surrounding area.
Barker Way Trailhead
Parks & OutdoorsChula Vista Bayside Park
Parks & OutdoorsPublic greenway with paved walking trails, a fishing pier & picnic tables, plus bay & city views.
Chula Vista Bayside Park
Parks & OutdoorsAlcázar Garden
Parks & OutdoorsNeed a quick mind reset this week? Alcázar Garden delivers ornate fountains, turquoise, yellow, and green Moorish tiles, and a shady…
Alcázar Garden
Parks & OutdoorsThe Water Conservation Garden
Parks & OutdoorsButterfly and native plant garden, as well as playground with a sandbox, and an amphitheater.
The Water Conservation Garden
Parks & OutdoorsBalboa Park
Parks & OutdoorsSprawling outdoor destination is home to the city's renowned zoo, museums, gardens & more.
Balboa Park
Parks & OutdoorsCivita Park
Parks & OutdoorsPopular city park with a splash pad, food trucks, several playgrounds & an amphitheater.
Civita Park
Parks & OutdoorsNothing matched that. Know a spot we’re missing? Tell us →
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