San Diego in 2 days: tours, city views & fun ways to explore

The vessels all come with safety equipment that has been approved by the Coast Guard and use super-quiet, eco-friendly, 30-horsepower outboard motors. Boats can carry up to three passengers and come with comfortable cushioned seats.You don't need to be an experienced driver to pilot the boats either. They're controlled with a steering wheel that handles just like a car, and the throttle only has three positions.You can choose to cruise slowly like a houseboat and take in all the sights or whizz across the water.Along the way, you'll get views of the Navy Ships, the USS Midway aircraft museum, Coronado Bridge, famous Star of India, and the Seaport Village.

Head to the Whaley House Museum to explore San Diego's mysterious and chilling past and learn all about how this landmark house shaped the history of Old Town San Diego.Recognized as the oldest two-story brick structure south of Monterey California, the Whaley House features magnificent Greek Revival architecture along with an unrivaled historical timeline encompassing San Diego's second County Courthouse, a lively theatre, a charming general store and a prominent family home.

Get a whistle-stop tour of the city with this 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Pass from Old Town Trolley Tours. It's the perfect way to get your bearings when you first arrive.Once you start your tour, you can hop off at any of the 12 stops along the route and re-join when you're ready. Friendly and knowledgeable guides provide the 'transportainment' along the way, giving you the history, context, and trivia relating to everything you’ll see.

Sit back, relax and enjoy spectacular views of San Diego Bay. This professionally-narrated harbor boat tour takes in dozens of the city's best sights including Seaport Village, Shelter Island, Coronado Island, Point Loma, and Cabrillo National Monument. You'll cover 20 miles-worth of incredible landmarks and locations. As well as enjoying the sights, you'll also learn about San Diego's local history from the onboard narration and admire the area's stunning natural scenery. City Cruises' onboard staff will point out any marine animals you happen to pass by and you'll have plenty of chances to take photos along the way.