San Diego is a Terrific Summer Vacation Destination

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San Diego is a Terrific Summer Vacation Destination

San Diego's third most important industry is tourism, and it's obvious why. Southern California enjoys comfortable weather year round, but especially May - August when people like to go on vacation. This makes the things you can do elsewhere even more fun. The only thing you could possibly add to make a better vacation place is an ocean. Attractions like theme parks and museums are available in scores of big metropolitan areas. Those in San Diego, though, are unique. Here are a few of San Diego's best attractions.

San Diego is celebrated for its Zoo and Wild Animal Park. The zoo, home to 4,000 animals, is located in Balboa Park near downtown San Diego. Another 3,500 animals call the 1,800 acre Wild Animal Park in Escondido home. Both parks offer a variety of educational programs and summer camps for kids in addition to the beautiful exhibits available for tourists to see.

The world famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park are incredible. Balboa Park, near downtown San Diego, is home to the 4,000 animals at the San Diego Zoo. Another 3,500 animals call the 1,800 acre Wild Animal Park in Escondido home. Both parks offer a variety of educational programs and summer camps for kids in addition to the beautiful exhibits available for tourists to see.

Sea World of course, is the granddaddy of all marine animal parks. Sea World has exhibits and shows with all kinds of ocean dwellers, and a few land animals. Their scientists are generally regarded as the world experts in marine wildlife preservation and rescue. Thousands of visitors from the youngest children to senior citizens enjoy watching these magnificent animals and even sitting in the splash zone. Visitors are likely to learn something about conservation that they can incorporate into their everyday lives.

The Pacific Ocean is by far the best attraction of all. With its miles of coastline, there are a variety of water related activities to enjoy. Those who live further inland come for the ocean. Even those who live further north come for the unbeatable combination of water and sunshine.

Don't make the mistake of skipping the beach when you come to San Diego. Building sand castles, having a beach bonfire, playing in the surf and exploring tide pools are fun and inexpensive. Everyone should have memories of these experiences. If you're a little more adventurous about the water, try surfing, body boarding, sailing, fishing, or kayaking. Whale watching cruises are available seasonally. Even during the off season, there are wildlife cruises where you can see local sea life, including dolphins.

The luxury loving crowd can find a lot to do on or near the Pacific. Take a sunset cruise or eat at a restaurant overlooking a harbor or beach. Many cruises of the Mexican Riviera start in San Diego Harbor.

This vacation paradise is conveniently located. Since it's part of the continental U.S., it can be reached by car from much of the country. You can save money by avoiding airfare, especially if you're traveling with a large group or family. San Diego hosts vacationers from many western states. Those whose homes are even closer, like Los Angeles, Riverside or Orange County often visit for a weekend or even just a day.

San Diego is an ideal vacation destination for anyone who wants to get away for a day, a weekend or more. More than one family has loved San Diego so much that they decided to move there and buy a home. After all, if you live in San Diego you can take advantage of all these activities whenever you want.