As I literally live across the street from Seaport Village in San Diego, it is about time I write about this place and give you the inside scoop on the best things to do in Seaport Village, my favorite restaurants and hangout spots, and more.
Seaport Village is a little tourist spot in the heart of downtown along San Diego’s beautiful waterfront. You will find restaurants overlooking the water, shops selling souvenirs, and little knick-knacks, catch a concert at the Rady Shell, or you can go for a stroll around the Embarcadero. Yes, it is a bit cheesy, but it is one of my favorite touristy things to do in San Diego. I am there every day to walk my dog, hang out, eat, or grab a beer 🙂
Things to Do in Seaport Village
Most Popular Tours Near Seaport Village
| Experience | Type | Duration | From* | Great for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USS Midway Museum | Museum / ticket | 2–3 hrs | ~$34 | History buffs, families |
| San Diego Harbor Cruise | Bay cruise | 1–2 hrs | ~$40 | First-timers, couples |
| San Diego SEAL Tour | Land & sea tour | ~90 min | ~$55 | Families, something different |
| Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise | Cruise (seasonal) | 3–4 hrs | ~$75 | Nature lovers |
| Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour | City sightseeing | All day | ~$50 | Sightseers, first visit |
| Sunset Sailing Cruise | Sailing | ~2 hrs | ~$100 | Couples, sunset |
Shop for Souvenirs
There are dozens of cute little shops in Seaport Village and it is one of my favorite places to shop for gifts and souvenirs from San Diego. Some of my favorites are Windsong (wind chimes and decor), Sock Harbor (crazy socks), and San Diego Surf (clothing & decor).
Go To A Concert at the Rady Shell
The Rady Shell is the latest outdoor concert venue in San Diego and my favorite by far. My husband and I have seen multiple concerts there. Surrounded by water and the San Diego skyline as a backdrop, the atmosphere of this concert venue is simply fantastic. Even if you don’t have tickets, you can check the open rehearsal schedule and see the symphony practice – for free!
Check out our full review of the Rady Shell [with video] here>>
Visit the Headquarters
The historic Headquarters is technically part of Seaport Village, but since it is just on the other side of the parking lot, I will include it here. This used to be the old Police Station in San Diego, and now it is home to shops and restaurants.
Puesto is great for cocktails and fancy Mexican food, and then there’s a Cheesecake Factory and Eddy V’s for the chain restaurant lovers. If you like wine, check out the wine bar there called Grape Underground.
On the opposite side of the Puesto Entrance, there is a little hallway. Go in, and you can see some photos of what the Headquarters used to look like back when it was a Police station. You can take “Mug Shot” photos and even check out the cells they used for the prisoners.
Don’t miss Dorothy’s Wine Bar. They have a unique selection of wines, and the staff is so friendly. It is such a cool place! They also often have live music on Sunday afternoons, and it is one of my favorite spots to chill for a few hours with Greg or our friends, drinking wine, and enjoying life.
Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
The San Diego Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is the most efficient way to explore San Diego in 1 day. It takes you by all the main sights in and around downtown San Diego, Little Italy, Old Town, Coronado, and Barrio Logan. There are 11 stops along the 25-mile loop, and you can get off at as many stops as you like and spend as much or as little time as you want.
It is the perfect way to see San Diego in the most stress-free way, as you don’t have to worry about finding your way, parking, or missing any top spots. Whenever I have friends or family coming to San Diego for the first time, I recommend this tour, and they have all loved it. Book your tickets here>>
Historic Carousel
Not just kids love the historic carousel in Seaport Village. The 54 animals and 2 horse-drawn carriages were hand-carved in 1895 in Brooklyn, NY. The Carousel has delighted kids in Dallas, Santa Monica, Spanaway, and Portland before calling Seaport Village home since 2004.
Explore the USS Midway
The USS Midway is one of the top tourist attractions in San Diego and is located on the Northern end of Seaport Village. The Aircraft carrier is a museum now and does an excellent job showcasing what life was like on the ship during its years of service. There are also many volunteers; many of them have served on the Midway or other Aircraft carriers and love to share their stories. Read our full guide on the USS Midway Museum here. Get your tickets here>>
Take Photos of the Kissing Statue
Based on the famous photo of a sailor kissing a nurse to celebrate the end of World War II, you can find a 25 ft tall Kissing Statue in the park next to the USS Midway. This makes for a cool photo opp, especially at night.
Visit Santa
Some people wish the Holiday Season never ends. If you are one of these Christmas Fanatics (or simply want to buy a Christmas Ornament to remember your trip to San Diego), check out Santa’s Workshop in Seaport Village.
If you come during December, you can take photos with Santa, or join the Surfin’ Santa event.
Have fun on the Seal Tour
The Seal Tour starts right in Seaport Village and gives you the best of San Diego on land and on the water. You will get on top of the tall, amphibious blue Seal bus and take a short ride along the San Diego Waterfront before “driving” into the bay for a short bay cruise. The cruise takes you by the bait barges in San Diego North Bay, where you will spot lots of seals, sea lions, and other wildlife. Get your tickets here>>
Take the Ferry to Coronado
Most people think they can only get to Coronado via the iconic Coronado Bridge. But the most direct route from downtown is to take the ferry. The Seaport Village ferry stop is on the South Embarcadero, just behind the convention center, next to Joe’s Crab Shack. The little boat takes you over to Coronado Ferry Landing in about 10 minutes. Check out our guide on the San Diego Coronado Ferry here>>
Take the Ferry to Chula Vista
If you are looking for a slightly longer ferry ride, you can also check out the brand new ferry to Chula Vista and explore a little less touristy San Diego neighborhood. Read our full review of the San Diego to Chula Vista Ferry and things to do in Chula Vista here.
Fly a Kite
The Embarcadero is the perfect spot to fly a kite. A strong breeze usually comes from the bay, making it pretty easy to keep your kite in the air. If you didn’t bring a kite, you can buy one in Seaport Village at Kite Flite.
Go on a Harbor Cruise
San Diego is best viewed from the water, and a bay cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy the views over the San Diego waterfront and skyline. There are multiple offers, including 45-minute, 1.5-hour, cocktail, dinner, and brunch cruises. There is something for everyone! Get your tickets here>>
Enjoy the Embarcadero
The Embarcadero Marina Park is one of my favorite Parks in San Diego. On the North Embarcadero, there are grassy areas, walking paths (no bikes allowed), and covered picnic tables that are perfect for a relaxing day. When you get to the southern tip, you have a beautiful view over the Marina, downtown, the Rady Shell, Coronado Bridge, and on a clear day, see all the way to Mexico.
On the South Embarcadero, you can visit the Shell, shoot some hoops, and do a little Fitness Circuit to spice up your workout routine.
I love going for walks here and it is one of my favorite places in San Diego to watch the sunset.
Watersports on the Bay
The San Diego Bay is perfect for all kinds of watersports. You can go sailing, paddleboarding, or kayaking.
Due to its protected nature, the water on the bay is relatively calm, so perfect for beginners. However, you need to watch for other boats and get out of the way fast if they are coming your way. Also, keep your distance from the Navy shipyards on the Coronado side, as the Navy doesn’t want civilians too close to their boats and equipment.
Go to the Fish Market on Saturdays
Up until the 1960s, Tuna fishing and canning was the third-largest industry in San Diego. Not much is left of the once-thriving fishing industry, but one of the remnants is the weekly fish market on the pier in Seaport Village every Saturday morning.
I love watching the sea lions play next to the boats, hoping to be thrown some leftovers. If you are lucky, the booth that sells fish sandwiches is there. Don’t miss that. They are fresh and delicious.
Sunset Sail on San Diego Bay
Nothing is more romantic than a sunset sail on San Diego Bay. The tour gives you the best views of San Diego’s beautiful skyline and waterfront, including the Star of India, Maritime Museum, and USS Midway. What a fantastic way to end the day! Book your tickets here>>
Best Restaurants in Seaport Village
Seaport Village is home to many restaurants in every price range, cuisines, and different vibes. Many of the restaurants have fantastic views over San Diego Bay, and it is a great spot to watch the sunset while enjoying a nice meal.
Malibu Farm
It finally opened! This modern American eatery has been a long-awaited addition to the Seaport Village restaurant roster. They are currently open from 9 AM to 3 PM and offer brunch, small plates and mains, and a fun cocktail menu. This is a great place if you have vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters in your group. They have plenty of tasty-sounding options for everyone.
We tried their brunch and had the Surfer’s Rancheros and the Tofu Scramble. Both were really delicious. Also their hot sauces are fantastic. We tried the mango-habanero and the apple-serrano ones and both were fruity and spicy. Quite a unique flavor and if you like a bit of spice, definitely ask for some.
Sally’s Fish House & Bar
This upscale fish restaurant with a view over the Marina has a modern cool vibe, beautiful decor, and does fish right. Inspired by SoCal Baja cuisine, the fish is fresh and delicious, artfully presented, and simply a joy to eat. Perfect for a dinner date before walking over to the Shell for a concert.
Spill the Beans
One of my favorite coffee shops in San Diego. Nothing beats enjoying a cuppa while people-watching or catching up with a friend. Their bagels are really good too!!!
Louisiana Charlies
I lived in Louisiana for a year in High School, and Louisiana Charlies does a decent job of satisfying my Cajun cravings. My husband Greg also really likes their BBQ. It is definitely the best-smelling restaurant in Seaport Village, and I am tempted to go in every time I walk by.
Zytoun
If you have a hankering for Mediterranean food, Zytoun is great, and their portions are huge. I especially love their Borak and the Chicken Shawarma, and their salads are really good as well.
It is located right on the walking path along the bay, so you can’t miss it.
Crack Tacos
Fancy tacos that really hit the spot. We have a lot of bougie taco places downtown that charge an arm and a leg for pseudo-creative tacos. Crack Tacos is on the expensive side as well (average for downtown), but definitely worth it. They use quality meats, homemade tortillas and guac, and you can’t beat the view over the marina.
Their specialty is Crack Taco, which uses Cardiff Crack Tri Tip. OMG, this stuff is addictive! Cardiff Crack has been my favorite steak for a while, but on a taco, it is mindblowing! Yum! I also really like their shrimp taco and the
Mr. Moto Pizza
Sometimes, all you want is a quick slice of delicious pie and some beer. And Mr. Moto does that just right. Grab a slice and walk over to the Embarcadero for a little impromptu picnic and watch the world go by.
Mr. Moto is known for their white pies, where the foundation is some garlicky paste of deliciousness. And since you are already stinky anyways, might as well add the garlic knots to your order. Yum!
San Diego Burger Company
I have to admit, I have not been here yet. But it’s on my list 🙂
Marion’s Fish Market
If you are into fried fish, look no further, Marion’s Fish Market is your spot. I personally prefer grilled fish and seafood, so I haven’t been here either.
Mike Hess Brew Pub
Tacos and Beer paired with a beautiful view – what else do you need? They are very busy during sunset time, so come early! They also just opened a second location in Seaport Village next to Spill the Beans. For the best view, go through the back and up the stairs to access the upstairs seating area! The sunset views are so beautiful!
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
While there are several stores selling candy, fudge, and other sweets, nothing feels better than indulging in a big bowl of ice cream on a hot summer day by the water, right? And with all the crazy flavors Ben & Jerry’s has to offer, everyone will find their favorite.
The Best Donuts
Filled donuts in a huge variety of flavors, from Raspberry Bavarian Cream, Nutella, Raffaello, Dulce de Leche, and many more, right in the heart of Seaport Village.
Shorebird
If you are looking for some stunning views over San Diego bay AND delicious food, Shorebird is the place to go. Built on stilts over the water, you get the best view. I really like their menu, as they have something for everyone, from Burgers to Sushi and local fish. It is a bit pricy, so Greg and I like to come here for date night or when we have friends coming to town for a special night out.
Seaport Village Parking
There are plenty of parking options near Seaport Village. The Seaport Village Parking Lot charges $8/hour.
Important!!! If you buy something for $10, you can validate your ticket and get 3 hours (Monday – Thursday) and 2 hours (Friday – Sunday) for $5. If you need more time, it is 3$ for 30 min after that.
Across the street from the Headquarters, as well as on the South Embarcadero, you can find many metered spots as well.
Hotels near Seaport Village
My Top 3 Hotels Near Seaport Village
| Hotel | Best for | Price | Walk to Seaport Village |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego | Luxury; couples & business travelers; bay views | $$$$ | Steps away (adjacent) |
| Embassy Suites San Diego Bay – Downtown | Families; suites + free breakfast | $$$ | ~3–5 min |
| Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina | Luxury; families & groups; pools & marina views | $$$$ | Steps away (adjacent) |
Compare Seaport Village Hotel Prices
Seaport Village FAQs
lenty — wander the waterfront shops, ride the 1895 hand-carved carousel, tour the USS Midway Museum, catch a concert (or a free open rehearsal) at the Rady Shell, fly a kite on the Embarcadero, take the ferry to Coronado, or just stroll the bay at sunset. On Saturday mornings, there’s a fish market on the pier.
Yes — and it’s free to walk around. It’s a bit touristy, but as a local, I’m there all the time. It’s low-key, family-friendly, and the waterfront setting is hard to beat, especially at sunset.
Sunsets over the bay are the main event. Grab dinner with a view at Shorebird or Sally’s Fish House, head upstairs at Mike Hess Brew Pub for tacos and beer, catch a show at the Rady Shell, or photograph the lit-up Kissing Statue by the USS Midway.
Please note that Seaport Village is more of a daytime and dinnertime location, not a nightlife destination in San Diego. If you want to go out later, head to Little Italy or the Gaslamp Quarter. Also see our guide for Things to Do in San Diego at Night.
There’s something for every budget — Malibu Farm is great for brunch, lunch, and dinner, Sally’s Fish House for upscale seafood, Crack Tacos and Mr. Moto Pizza for a quick bite, and Mike Hess for tacos with a view. See my full restaurant rundown above.
The Seaport Village lot is $8/hour. If you spend $10 at a shop or restaurant, you can validate for 3 hours (Mon–Thu) or 2 hours (Fri–Sun) for $5, then $3 per 30 minutes after. There are also metered spots across from the Headquarters and along the South Embarcadero.
Yes — several downtown waterfront hotels are within walking distance, from the luxury Manchester Grand Hyatt right next door to family-friendly and value options nearby. See my Where to Stay Near Seaport Village guide for picks and live rates.
Take the ferry. The stop is on the South Embarcadero behind the convention center, next to Joe’s Crab Shack, and the boat reaches Coronado Ferry Landing in about 10 minutes.
Seaport Village has something for everyone. If you are in Downtown San Diego and are looking for something family-friendly and low-key to do, then head over to Seaport Village
Last Updated on June 23, 2026 by Maria Haase
