Ultimate Guide to Seaport Village San Diego By a Local [2023]

As I literary 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 of 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 knickknacks, 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

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 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.

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>>

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.

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>>

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.

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.

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.

Mike Hess Brew Pub

Tacos and Beer paired with a beautiful view – what else do you need? This is one of my favorite casual hangout spots in Seaport Village. 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.

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.

Edgewater Grill

Edgewater Grill has been a Seaport Village staple for many years. This classic American restaurant has a lot of tasty classics that always hit the spot. If you want to sit on the patio during sunset or on the weekend, definitely make reservations.

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.

Tuk Tuk Eatery

Maybe not the most authentic Asian restaurant in town, but I like Tuk Tuk for a quick bite or lighter lunch, compared to the other options. They have bao buns, make-your-own bowls with rice, veggies, and protein, and a few noodle dishes.

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream

While there are several stores selling candy and 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.

Crack Tacos

Coming soon!

Malibu Farms

Coming soon!

Shorebird

Coming soon

Seaport Village Parking

There are plenty of parking options near Seaport Village. The Seaport Village Parking Lot charges $8/hour BUT!!! if you buy something for $5, you can validate your ticket and get 3 hours (Monday – Thursday) and 2 hours (Friday – Sunday) for $5.

Across the street from the Headquarters as well as on the South Embarcadero, you can find many metered spots as well.

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 August 1, 2023 by Maria Haase

The post Ultimate Guide to Seaport Village San Diego By a Local [2023] appeared first on San Diego Explorer.