North Central San Diego Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit North Central San Diego
Where to stay in North Central San Diego
Carmel Valley
The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Carmel Valley. A stop by Meadows Del Mar Golf Club or The Grand Golf Club might round out your trip.
Rancho Peñasquitos
Rancho Peñasquitos is popular for its ample dining options, and you might make a stop by Rancho Penasquitos Tennis Center, a top place to visit in the area.
Black Mountain Ranch
Black Mountain Ranch might not have many top sights, but Black Mountain Open Space Park and Carmel Mountain Plaza are two attractions nearby that you can check out.
Pacific Highlands Ranch
When in Pacific Highlands Ranch, you can plan a visit to Del Mar Racetrack and Del Mar Fairgrounds, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Torrey Highlands
If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Torrey Highlands and surrounding area, you can visit Carmel Mountain Plaza and Black Mountain Open Space Park.
Del Mar Mesa
While Del Mar Mesa may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Torrey Pines Golf Course.
DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego - Del Mar
Great location! Quiet and friendly staff
Reviewed on 9 Feb 2026
Paradise Point Resort & Spa
A very nice place, very well maintained, very friendly staff, I recommend it.
Reviewed on 14 Feb 2026
Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Great stay
Reviewed on 12 Feb 2026
Sentral Gaslamp Quarter
Shame the housekeepers didn’t provide proper bathroom tissues, warm water showers until my 5th morning at 4:00 am. Street weepers at 3:30 every morning. Otherwise convenient
Reviewed on 14 Feb 2026
Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort
On site staff was excellent, mix up with the room but once that was resolved had a great time.
Reviewed on 11 Feb 2026
Uptown Inn by Vantaggio - Limited Service Apart-Hotel
Great location in Hillcrest for all the LGBT bars/clubs/restaurants. They are still renovating some sections. Hotel staff were very friendly and accommodating! The beds and pillows are SOO comfortable and clean!! Great stay for the price.
Reviewed on 10 Feb 2026
Popular places to visit
San Diego Zoo
See nature up-close and personal at one of the country’s largest and most educational zoos.
Mission Beach
A favorite vacation spot for 100 years, this seaside village combines old-fashioned charm with modern amenities.
San Diego Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in San Diego Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Diego. Experience the area's entertainment choices and fascinating museums.
SeaWorld
Animal interaction, entertaining rides and informative exhibits are all on offer at this family favorite destination.
Mission Bay
Mingle with eccentric locals at bohemian beaches, soak up the sun on a Jet Ski and fish from marshy islands at San Diego’s premier water park.
Port of San Diego
Explore the waterfront in San Diego with a trip to Port of San Diego. Wander the seaside and beautiful beaches in the area.
Things to do
USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate
City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise
LEGOLAND® California Resort
San Diego: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket
City Cruises San Diego: Signature Dinner Cruise
