Fun and Free Outdoor Activities in San Diego

Whether you're visiting or live in the San Diego area, there are several attractions and outdoor activities that you can enjoy for free. You don't have to have a bunch of cash to watch free outdoor concerts, swim in the ocean or have a yummy picnic in the park. State and local parks provide outdoor enthusiasts the chance to explore trails, hike, fish and surf.

San Diego Bay offers a taste of coastal, city living, complete with sea breezes, entertainment, shopping and fine restaurants. Seaport Village on the bay, is a great place to take the family and kids to watch the ships come in. You can marvel at yachts and ships coming into the bay, while munching on a picnic lunch.

The Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the biggest state park in the US. It's a great place to learn about wildlife and flora in the desert, while hiking scenic trails. Springtime is delightful with a profusion of wildflowers in bloom and admission is free.

Maybe you're looking for exercise and fresh air for a weekend outing.? The Mission Bay Park is an outdoor getaway for hikers and joggers. You have your choice of 20 miles of scenic trails and running paths following the shoreline.

Farmers markets, offer a nice morning excursion where you can see what the local growers are selling and find beautiful, handmade, crafts from local artisans. Choose from fruits and vegetables fresh from the fields for your dinner table.

Two of the bigger farmers' markets are the East Village Farmers' Market and the La Jolla Open Aire Market. Shop Saturday morning at East Village and browse through fresh vegetables and fruits, crafts and listen to free music. La Jolla Open Aire Market sells vegetables, fruits, handmade goods and fresh flowers.

The San Diego area has many state and local parks close by, where you can spend the day or the weekend enjoying outdoor activities. Their free and each locality offers something unique for visitors.

Have you always wanted to watch hang-gliders close up and marvel at their skills? Torrey Pines State Park offers good, strong winds, perfect for hang-gliding. Pack up the kids and lunch for a fun afternoon.

Balboa Park is the place to watch the skies the first Wednesday of the month. You can view the stars for free, through a fantastic telescope offered by the San Diego Astronomy Association. Enjoy fresh air and exercise at the Mission Bay Park, flying kites.

La Jolla Cove has some of the most spectacular sunsets and beaches for swimming or beach combing. Outdoor enthusiasts can test their skills at Mission Beach Boardwalk, with 3 miles of boardwalk for skateboarders, rollerblading and bike riders. Point Loma is a great place for exploring tidal pools. Explore low tide pools for star fish, octopus, anemones and crabs, just as the sun rises.

San Diego Bay, La Jolla, Mission Bay and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park are all outdoor activities, where you and your family can spend an enjoyable day for free.