During your visit to San Diego, you'll find yourself snapping pictures of the gorgeous scenery that seems to be waiting around every corner. You don't have to be a professional photographer to appreciate all the amazing spots where you can take perfect shots to remember your trip. Whether you're looking to level up your Instagram game or simply want to take photos for sentimental value, here are the best places to take pictures in San Diego that you can't miss.
What Makes San Diego the Perfect Spot for Pictures?
Sunny San Diego is photogenic for a number of reasons. Southern California is famous for its sparkling beaches, beautiful weather, and laid-back vibe. Not only that but there are so many cool places in San Diego that serve as the perfect backdrop to your vacation photoshoot.
The city, as well as the rest of San Diego County, offers a variety of landscapes and urban areas that are sure to make your friends and family envious when you show off your vacation pics! From beautiful beach scenes and parks to innovative architecture to colorful murals in Chicano Park in Barrio Logan, this city really has it all.
10 Memorable Photo Spots in San Diego
San Diego's skyline, boardwalk, and parks are just a few of the unique things that you can capture as you explore the city. There are so many other aesthetic places in San Diego to choose from, but we've picked out 10 of the most Instagrammable places in San Diego that you need to see for yourself.
1. Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium at Scripps has more than 3,000 animals and sea creatures from 380 species. The aquarium's Hall of Fishes is one of the best photo spots since it features sea creatures and animals from California and the Pacific Northwest. The crown jewel of the exhibit is the kelp forest, a 70,000-gallon floor-to-ceiling glass tank. This is an amazing spot to see California wildlife.
2. Old Town State Park
Step back in time at one of San Diego's best photo shoot locations, Old Town State Park. The buildings here are restored originals that date back to the city's beginnings, starting as a Spanish settlement, becoming a Mexican village, and then eventually being established as an American city. As you stroll through the park, you'll quickly realize why Old Town is one of the best photo spots in San Diego. You'll spot original architecture from the time period, shops, and restaurants set to music, in addition to getting the chance to take pics of the park's burros!
3. Maritime Museum of San Diego
San Diego has a long maritime history. You can explore one of the largest preserved collections of sea vessels in the country at the Maritime Museum of San Diego. The ships are not only historical but incredibly impressive when you look through the lens of a camera.
4. Little Italy
Little Italy was once a neighborhood in downtown San Diego that was populated by Italian and Portuguese fishermen and their families. Today, it's a picturesque area of town filled with shops and restaurants while still holding on to much of its original charm. The Little Italy Mercato, the farmer's market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to hang out and snap photos.
5. City Cruises
One of the secret photography spots in San Diego isn't a spot at all, but rather, a place where you can get an entirely new perspective. City Cruises San Diego takes you out on the bay to get views of some of the city's most impressive landmarks. This gives you the perfect opportunity to take landscape photos along the water or snap pics of the city's skyline.
6. Centennial Park
If you're wondering where to take pictures with a mix of urban skylines and nature, Centennial Park is just the place. Full of beautiful flowers and greenery, and with incredible views of the city as the backdrop, it's not surprising that many couples decide to take wedding and engagement photos here.
7. Coronado Bridge
The Coronado Bridge links the city of San Diego with nearby Coronado. It's won awards for its impressive design and distinctive look, which is why it's one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Head to the bridge and try getting shots from different angles.
8. SeaWorld San Diego
If you want to feel like a kid again while getting some wild photos, head to SeaWorld San Diego. This world-famous theme park has a variety of thrilling rides, along with a collection of sea animals that is sure to amaze you. Check out SeaWorld's schedule to find out when you can catch a fun and educational animal presentation to learn more about majestic orcas, sea lions, and dolphins.
9. Sunset Cliffs
Part of experiencing San Diego is marveling at its natural beauty. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park has dramatic cliffs, sweeping views of the sea, and mysterious caves that you can explore and photograph.
10. San Diego Zoo
You could easily spend a whole day at the San Diego Zoo taking in the wonder of the animal kingdom and snapping away one fantastic pic after another. Some favorite exhibits are the red pandas, elephants, and pygmy hippos.
Visit All the Best Photo Spots With a CityPASS® Ticket
If you want to save a little money as you discover the best San Diego Instagram spots, pick up a San Diego CityPASS® ticket! You'll save up to on the city's top attractions and theme parks, several of which are on this list. It's the best way to save time and money at the most popular spots in San Diego!
San Diego Lodging
To get the most out of your stay in San Diego, we recommend finding lodging near San Diego's top attractions. Use this map to find the right lodging for you:
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