Top Outdoor Adventures in San Diego

San Diego is a stunning coastal town with some of the most exciting action taking place outside. Whether you're on the water, on two wheels, hurtling along at high speeds, pedaling, or paddling at a steady pace, you can experience the top outdoor adventures in San Diego. The city was custom-made for high-action fun on both land and sea. Learn more about the best outdoor experiences in this southern Californian metropolis below

1. Cycle Down Mt. Soledad to the La Jolla Coast

If the thought of racing on a bike down a mountain along the gorgeous coastline of La Jolla gives you a thrill, then this 10-mile guided tour is tailor-made for you. After taking in the panoramic views from San Diego's highest coastal mountaintop Mount Soledad, you’ll wheel down to the coast at your own pace on a hybrid bike with your head safely strapped into a helmet.

Once seaside after your exhilarating 3.5-mile ride, you can make your way on foot through a tunnel to explore one of La Jolla's famous sea caves and visit beaches like Seal Beach, where the harbor seals make their home. Discover the tidal pools of La Jolla Cove and Ecological Reserve, and then take in the tranquil beach towns on the way back from your La Jolla coast bike adventure. Bottled water and snacks are provided to keep you hydrated and fueled for prime coastal action.

2. Explore Sea Caves by Kayak

The joys of spelunking aren't just limited to the land in La Jolla. This spectacular two-person guided sea cave kayak tour teaches you fascinating facts about sea caves, as well as marine plants and animals and their habitats. Stops include La Jolla's incredible Seven Sea Caves and giant marine kelp forest.

You might spy sea life — leopard sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, dolphins and maybe even whales — during your exciting nautical explorations. Naturally, you’ll receive kayak safety training from expert guides before they lead you and your partner in a double kayak through the gorgeous waters of the La Jolla Ecological Reserve.

3. Spy Whales from a Jet Boat

There are few marine animals as awe-inspiring as gray whales. Offering up to three hours of exciting whale watching, with private and sunset time options available, this whale-watching tour is not to be missed. This outdoor excursion takes you from San Diego's Navy Pier along the Pacific Ocean route where these magnificent sea creatures take on their annual 6,000-mile trip to Baja, California, from the Arctic.

The crew provides intriguing details about whales and other sea life in the area, including seals and dolphins. If you don't see any whales on your tour, you get a voucher for another tour at no cost.

4. Explore Annie’s Slot Canyon Trial

A truly spectacular experience, Annie’s Slot Canyon Trail is a fun activity for all ages to enjoy. Named after a local resident who contributed to its restoration, get ready to be hugged in as you make your way around this exciting slot canyon. Pace yourself through the narrow walls of this 1.5-mile trail and enjoy the beautiful ocean views. The canyon features ladders and steps to help you get around, and you can take in panoramic scenes of the Pacific Ocean and San Elijo Lagoon as you explore.

5. Go for an Adventure on a GoCar Tour

A unique and thrilling experience, San Diego’s GoCar Tours provide you with a fun and fast-paced way of exploring some of the city’s best sights. Hop into one of the innovative and interactive cars and enjoy stories, jokes, facts and recommendations from the in-built vehicle GPS and audio commentary. Stops typically include Presido Park, Little Italy, Mission Hills and the Gaslamp Quarter, so get ready for an experience jam-packed with fun. You’re free to enjoy the tour at your own pace, taking breaks, detours and stopping for photos whenever you wish. Choose from a range of different GoCar designs, you could even opt to explore by scooter, or add speed boat adventure onto your tour.

Choose from many exciting outdoor adventures in San Diego, and enjoy the most exhilarating experiences a great vacation can deliver when you sign up for Hertz Gold Plus Rewards.