Things To Do
in San Diego
San Diego, Colombia is a hidden Caribbean-flavored town known for its colorful streets and warm hospitality. Nestled between lush hills and winding waterways, it blends colonial charm with a casual coastal vibe. The town is a gateway to nearby beaches, nature reserves, and a lively local market scene.
Visitors can expect friendly locals, flavorful street food, and a relaxed pace perfect for exploring on foot.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring arepas and fresh fruit juice. Afterward, stroll through the cobblestone streets of San Diego’s historic center, admiring the colonial architecture and colorful buildings. Don’t miss the iconic San Diego Church, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture.
For lunch, indulge in local seafood dishes at a nearby restaurant, enjoying the fresh catch of the day. Spend the afternoon visiting the Plaza de Santo Domingo, where you can browse artisan crafts and relax in the vibrant atmosphere. As the sun begins to set, take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history and culture of the area.
As night falls, head to the popular Café del Mar for a delightful dinner, where you can enjoy live music and ocean views. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the cool evening breeze. Wrap up your day by sipping a cocktail at a rooftop bar, enjoying panoramic views of the city lights.
Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast at a beachfront café, fueling up with local specialties. Head over to Playa de San Diego, where you can rent paddleboards or kayaks to explore the tranquil waters. Enjoy the sun and surf as you engage in various water activities, feeling the refreshing ocean breeze.
For lunch, grab a beachside bite from a local food truck serving delicious tacos and fresh ceviche. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, or participating in beach volleyball games with locals. If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a surfing lesson from a seasoned instructor.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a sunset beach picnic with locally sourced snacks and drinks. Afterward, head to a nearby beach bar where you can relax with live music and mingle with other travelers. Conclude your day by witnessing the beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $1-3 |
| 🚗Taxi 1 km | $1-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🛍️Groceries per week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- People are warm and welcoming with a relaxed, friendly vibe
- Rich local cuisine with fresh seafood and tropical fruits
- Compact town center that's easy to explore on foot
- Strong potential for authentic cultural experiences and markets
- Smaller selection of upscale amenities compared to bigger cities
- Public transport options may be limited outside the center
- Weather can be humid and rain heavy during the wet seasons
- "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hi, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quisiera una mesa para dos" - I would like a table for two
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "No hablo español muy bien" - I don't speak Spanish very well
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas?" - Do you accept cards?
Places to Visit in San Diego
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial balconies, palm-lined streets, and early-morning light create a warm, nostalgic mood.
Calm water reflections, boats, and local activity provide dynamic riverlife photography.
Vivid façades, hanging plants, and typical storefronts offer vibrant street photography opportunities.
Historic architecture with soft morning shadows and plaza activity.
Hilltop viewpoint overlooking the town and valley for sweeping landscape shots.
Food in San Diego
San Diego Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy corn cake stuffed with an egg; best enjoyed fresh from a street vendor.
Must-Try!
A hearty fish stew with plantains, yuca, and corn; commonly found near the harbor.
Coconut rice often served with fried fish and patacones.
Fresh fish marinated with lime, onions, cilantro, and hot peppers; served with fried tostones.
Crispy fried plantains topped with marinated fish and lime.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, fish, and local snacks; try empanadas, carimañolas, yuca frita, and fresh fruit juices.
Street stalls offering arepas, bollos, patacones, and fruit cups in the shaded market lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; among friends, a light cheek kiss is sometimes exchanged. Use a friendly, warm tone when conversing.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; modest, casual attire is appropriate in most areas.
Small talk about family and food is common; avoid sensitive topics; show appreciation for local hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in San Diego
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant tipping is common at 5-10% if service is not included; small tips for tour guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.
Cash in COP is widely accepted in markets and smaller eateries; many places also accept credit/debit cards, especially in larger venues. Have some local currency for street vendors and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry spells occur roughly December–March and June–August, bringing sunny days, clearer skies, and more predictable beach and outdoor plans.
Expect regular afternoon downpours in April–May and October–November, with lush greenery and humid conditions ideal for photography indoors and in shaded markets.
San Diego at Night
Hiking in San Diego
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hillside route with panoramic views over the town and valley; suitable for a half-day hike.
Bird-rich riverside trails weaving through mangroves and forest patches; ideal for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach San Diego by plane.
Major international gateway in Cartagena; access from San Diego typically via road transfer or domestic flight connections.
Coastal gateway with domestic connections; drive times can be lengthy but routes exist for coastal travel.
Regional airport serving northern Colombia; a practical link for accessing inland routes to the Magdalena Basin.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Multi-generational households and community-oriented neighborhoods are common.
Local schools and small colleges contribute to a youthful, energetic vibe in the center.
Nearby countryside areas contribute agricultural roots and traditional practices.
Cultural influences and traditional rhythms enrich local music and food scenes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in plazas and parks.
Bike riding is popular on coastal roads and surrounding hills; scenic routes abound.
Played in beach areas and community centers, especially on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Diego.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many dishes feature meat or fish, you can find vegetarian options by requesting plant-based plates, beans with rice, salads, arepas rellenas de vegetales, or veggie-friendly versions of local stews. If in doubt, ask for a pescado-free version and avoid dairy-heavy sauces if lactose-sensitive.