Self-guided Tours in San Diego

Discover San Diego at your own pace with our carefully designed self-guided tours. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of architecture, or someone who enjoys wandering through hidden streets and local markets, our self-guided itineraries provide the perfect blend of flexibility and discovery. Unlike traditional guided tours, self-guided experiences allow you to explore without time restrictions, pause for a coffee, or spend extra time at the places that capture your interest most. Each route is curated to showcase the cultural, historical, and scenic highlights of San Diego, while also introducing you to unique, off-the-beaten-path gems that most visitors miss. With digital maps, audio guides, and insider tips included, you’ll feel like you have a knowledgeable local by your side, but with the freedom to design your own schedule. From iconic landmarks to hidden alleys, from bustling neighborhoods to tranquil spots, our self-guided tours in San Diego make it easy to create an experience that is truly personal. Enjoy the freedom of exploration while still ensuring that you see the very best that San Diego has to offer.

Top Self-guided Tours in San Diego

Kayak on the San Diego Bay  in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (53 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 20.00

Duration: 1 hours (approx.)

What makes this experience unique is that the majority of the areas you can visit are only accessible by kayak or paddle board.

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Old Town SD Team Trivia Hunt: New 2024 Mobile Game App! in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (12 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 21.00

Duration: 4 hours (approx.)

Embark on a town quest with your team and Riddle Routes! Solve clues, discover local treasures, learn fascinating city history, enjoy beautiful views, and make lasting memories with your crew. Challenge your team with puzzles, riddles, trivia, GPS navigation, and keen observations. Our mobile app games, available 24/7, blend adventure and intellect. Play at your pace and let the journey begin anytime! Our routes average a distance of 2 miles and a duration of 3 hours, and are dog friendly as there is no need to go inside any stores. The purchase is for a team of 2-4 people with game access on one phone. Contact Riddle Routes directly if you have multiple teams (corporate event, field trip, birthday parties, team building, etc).

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San Diego: Balboa Park Botanical Exploration Game in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (11 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 7.41

Duration: 1 hours (approx.)

Step into the shoes of a renowned botanist on a mission through San Diego’s stunning Balboa Park. This interactive quest blends nature, history, and mystery, turning one of America’s most iconic urban parks into a living puzzle just waiting to be solved. Follow clever clues through beautiful gardens, colorful artist villages, and hidden corners as your phone guides you from one location to the next. Along the way, you’ll uncover surprising facts from massive bronze animal statues to floral secrets, all while solving fun challenges and unlocking new parts of the story. What makes this tour unique? It’s a nature-filled outdoor escape game where every puzzle connects you more deeply to the park’s vibrant charm and rich history. Bring your curiosity and your crew. This self-paced experience is perfect for couples, families, and curious explorers looking for a playful and unforgettable way to discover Balboa Park.

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San Diego Harbor Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (7 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 24.50

Duration: 3 hours (approx.)

Enjoy a walking tour of beautiful and interesting parts of San Diego while following clues on your smartphone and solving interesting puzzles along the tour. Play the game on your smartphone with your group as the game guides you through the city. Score points for correct answers and try to get the high score on the leaderboard. See major attractions as well as less-known gems of San Diego on this unique scavenger hunt and walking tour. Play any time that fits your schedule! There is no in-person guide you have to wait for! Tour several key sections of San Diego - Little Italy, Downtown, Gaslamp Quarter, and the Marina. Your group of 2 to 6 people works together to solve the 24 challenges on the scavenger hunt. Wear comfortable shoes! You'll walk about 4 miles along this scavenger hunt tour. Explore the city at your own pace Enjoy fun challenges with family and friends Discover San Diego's hidden gems and historic sights Perfect for all ages

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E-Bike Rentals in San Diego in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 40.00

 

Old Road aims to provide fun experiences riding amazing electric bikes to discover the streets of San Diego, including Old Town, La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, Vacation Island, Sea World, Fiesta Island, Ocean Beach, Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma, Cabrillo, Coronado Island, Downtown, Gaslamp Quarter, Balboa Park, Little Italy and Hillcrest. Business running by locals looking to offer great memories, through the touristic sights in the area.

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San Diego Bike Rentals in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (4 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 21.55

 

Ride through Balboa Park and visit the Bea Evenson Fountain and Japanese Friendship Garden Stop and visit the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Air & Space Museum This is a perfect experience for locals and tourists, couples and solo riders, families and friend groups!

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Single Kayak Rental in Mission Bay in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (3 reviews)
Likely to Sell Out Free Cancellation

From $ 25.00

 

Embark on a solo adventure and paddle at your own pace. Our single kayaks are perfect for those seeking tranquility and a closer connection with nature. Enjoy the freedom to explore Mission Bay at your leisure, taking in the sights, sounds, and serenity of the bay.

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San Diego Electric Bike Rentals in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (3 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 43.10

 

Boost your ride with a pedal assist electric bike! Bike through the historic Gaslamp Quarter and ride towards the Embarcadero, which has the best views of San Diego See all the downtown gems including the USS Midway, Embarcadero Marina Park, Billionaire Row, Maritime Museum, Bob Hope Memorial, Tuna Pier and Seaport Village!

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Boardwalk Beach Cruiser Bike Rental in Pacific Beach in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (2 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 15.00

Duration: 24 hours (approx.)

Join us for an exhilarating bike ride along the picturesque boardwalks of Pacific Beach, Mission Beach, and La Jolla. Feel the ocean breeze as you pedal through stunning coastal views and vibrant beach communities. Our comfortable cruiser bikes are perfect for leisurely rides along the boardwalk, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the scenic beauty of San Diego's coastline. Whether you're a local looking for a new adventure or a visitor wanting to experience the best of the beach cities, our rentals are an ideal choice for a memorable day out. Come rent a bike with Boardwalk Beach Cruiser Bike Rental and start your beachside journey today! Ride, relax, and soak in the sun as you explore the best of San Diego's coastal treasures.

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E Bike Rentals in Pacific Beach and Mission Beach in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (1 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 30.00

Duration: 1 hours (approx.)

Ride the latest e-bike models Experience the thrill of effortless cycling Explore the picturesque Southern California Coastline Conquer any terrain with fat tires Enjoy a fun and eco-friendly outdoor activity Discover hidden gems and scenic viewpoints Cruise along the beach with ease Feel the wind in your hair as you ride Join a community of e-bike enthusiasts Learn about the benefits of e-bikes from experts Try out the latest e-bike technology Get a taste of the future of cycling Capture amazing photos along the way Feel the freedom of exploring on two wheels Challenge yourself with exhilarating rides Experience the joy of cycling without the effort Meet other adventure seekers and make new friends

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Secrets of Liberty Station: Self-Guided Puzzle Walk in San Diego in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (1 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 6.93

 

Discover San Diego’s Liberty Station by solving challenges and unlocking stories on your phone. Play the engaging exploration game, taking the role of Brad Dutiful, one of the Naval Training Center's newest recruits. As you solve challenges, the story unfolds and exact directions on your phone will guide you to the next location. Ready for an adventure? Highlights include: • Explore Dick Laub NTC Command Center, Ingram Plaza, 52 Boats Memorial and more lesser-known places. • Enjoy a uniquely crafted story brought to you by our top-notch writers. • Learn about the fascinating story of one of America's best golfers. • Try a new type of experience, the perfect mix between a tour, outdoor escape game, and treasure hunt. After your booking, you will receive an email with instructions on how to download and play the game on your phone. We recommend that each user purchases a ticket for an optimal experience, although several people can share a phone.

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Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Downtown Splendors in San Diego

San Diego , California

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (1 reviews)

From $ 12.80

Duration: 2 hours (approx.)

Let’s Roam is the #1 app-led adventure hunt company. Explore the best landmarks and hidden gems, answering trivia questions and tackling challenges along the way. Team up with your friends or go head-to-head as you uncover fascinating facts and create unforgettable memories. Let’s Roam Adventure Hunts are perfect for any occasion—whether it's an everyday outing, a bachelorette bash, a birthday celebration, or a corporate team-building extravaganza! Each player gets to choose an interactive role, with unique challenges for everyone. Ready for an adventure? Let's Roam!

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Why Choose Our Self-guided Tours in San Diego?

Our self-guided tours in San Diego are perfect for travelers who want freedom without missing out on the highlights. With carefully curated routes, insider tips, and easy-to-use digital tools, you can explore at your own pace while still enjoying the benefits of a thoughtfully planned itinerary. Whether you’re short on time or seeking hidden gems, these tours provide the flexibility and depth that make your trip unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Each tour includes a digital map, clear directions, and audio or written commentary. You’ll also receive local tips to make exploring San Diego smooth and enjoyable.

Most tours can be downloaded in advance, so you don’t need constant internet access. We recommend saving maps and content before starting your journey.

On average, tours take between 2–4 hours. However, since you control the pace, you can make the experience shorter or longer based on your preferences.

Absolutely! Self-guided tours are family-friendly, giving you the freedom to stop whenever needed and adjust the pace for kids or older family members.
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