San Diego is notable for its stunning beaches, ideal weather, and vibrant cultural scene, offering an array of attractions often thought to be too expensive. However, the city provides many affordable experiences, from free beach access and scenic parks to budget-friendly dining and entertainment sites. Financial misconceptions often overshadow the diverse, welcoming environment that makes San Diego worth visiting.
However, in reality, travelers can enjoy the city’s natural beauty, rich history, and lively neighborhoods on a budget, making it a top destination for a memorable and affordable vacation. Here are 10 things you can do in San Diego for under $25.
Relax at Torrey Pines State Beach
Considered a local favorite among residents, Torrey Pines State Beach offers a more serene and natural setting. Ideal for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the rugged beauty of the coastline, it provides a peaceful escape from the city.
- Cost: Free
- Website: torreypines.org
- Get more for your money: The beach also hosts free bird and nature walks throughout the year. Check the website for more upcoming events.
Visit The WorldBeat Cultural Center
The WorldBeat Center is a nonprofit multicultural center promoting African and African American arts and culture through music, dance, and visual arts.
- Cost: Free
- Website: worldbeatcenter.org
- Get more for your money: The center also hosts free lectures, readings, and performances. Check the website for the calendar of events.
Grab Coffee At Café X: By Any Beans Necessary
Café X is a family-owned, Black woman-owned cooperative coffee shop built to support generational wealth building in the Black community and other marginalized communities.
- Cost: Coffee and pastries from $3 to $15
- Website: byanybeans.com
- Get more for your money: Cafe X also offers T-shirts and coffee blends for less than $25. Visit the website to shop the cafe’s products.
Eat At Felix’s BBQ with Soul
Felix’s BBQ serves up Southern cuisine with soul food classics like fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread.
- Cost: Meals from $10 to $20.
- Website: felixsbbq.com
- Get more for your money: Felix’s BBQ also offers wine tastings and all you can eat foods for less than $25. Check the website for upcoming events.
Visit The San Diego African American Museum of Fine Arts
The San Diego African American Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to showcasing African American art and culture through various exhibitions and programs.
- Cost: Free
- Website: sdaamfa.org
- Get more for your money: The museum also hosts free lectures, readings, and performances. Check the website for the calendar of events.
Take A Hike At Mission Trails Regional Park
Mission Trails is a large urban park offering hiking trails, scenic views, and educational programs about the natural environment.
- Cost: Free
- Website: mtrp.org
- Get more for your money: Mission Trails also offers free guided nature walks. Check the website for upcoming events.
Try Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream
Since 2014, Hammond’s has been serving the best gourmet ice cream you can find with a wide variety of unique flavors and the option to get ice cream flights.
- Cost: Ice cream scoops range from $3 to $10.
- Website: hammondsgourmet.com
- Get more for your money: Hammonds offers an assortment of 32 flavors. Visit the website for more information.
Visit Mission Beach
Mission Beach is known for its vibrant boardwalk, amusement park rides at Belmont Park, and numerous beachfront bars and restaurants. It’s a fantastic spot for biking, rollerblading, and experiencing San Diego’s lively beach culture.
- Cost: Free
- Website: sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do/beaches-bays/mission-beach.aspx
- Get more for your money: Mission Beach also offers endless recreational opportunities, from picnics and fishing to water skiing and beach volleyball. Check out the website for more.
Eat At Bowlegged BBQ
Family-owned BBQ joint specializing in smoked meats and classic Southern sides.
- Cost: Meals range from $10 to $20.
- Website: bowleggedbbq.com
- Get more for your money: The BBQ joint offers desserts such as German chocolate cake and banana pudding for less than $10. Check out the website for more.
Visit Mingei International Museum
This museum often features exhibits from various cultures, including African art and crafts.
- Cost: Admissions range from $10 to $15.
- Website: mingei.org
- Get more for your money: The museum also hosts free lectures, exhibits, and performances. Check the website for the calendar of events.
San Diego is a city rich in diversity, culture, and history, making it an ideal destination for Black travelers. Despite financial misconceptions, the city provides numerous affordable dining and entertainment options.
By visiting “America’s finest city,” Black travelers can enjoy a welcoming environment, support local Black-owned businesses, and immerse themselves in a community that celebrates and honors African American heritage.
