Wondering what the best things to do in Seaport Village, San Diego are?

We were too, but couldn’t find a guide before our visit. After spending half a day exploring the area while staying at the nearby Manchester Grand Hyatt, we decided to write one ourselves.

Seaport Village is a short walk from the hotel, so we didn’t have to worry about parking! Although it’s a bit pricey since it’s a tourist spot, it’s great for finding unique souvenirs, especially with a nautical theme.

Walking through Seaport Village, with shops on one side and water on the other, was a highlight for us. Here’s our detailed guide to help you enjoy Seaport Village as much as we did.

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1. Explore Seaport Village

In this sunny, happy photo, a pair of smiling people are taking a selfie with the large "SEAPORT" sign at Seaport Village in San Diego. The man is holding a coffee cup from "Spill the Beans Coffee," suggesting a warm drink is among the enjoyable activities to experience here. They are both wearing sun hats, ready to explore the area. The background features lush trees and a glimpse of the city's tall buildings, hinting at the many adventures and sights that await visitors. It's a great snapshot of a day out in one of the best places to visit in Seaport Village San Diego, full of joy and the promise of fond memories.
Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

Exploring Seaport Village isn’t just about shopping and dining; it’s also a fantastic place to enjoy public art!  

You’ll find murals and decorations scattered around the village making it a fun way to explore the area.

💡 Pro Tip: The one that we’re posing with is near the lake near Wetzel’s Pretzels.

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    2. San Diego Seal Tour

    The San Diego Seal Tour is a 4.5/5 star-rated tour that lets you explore San Diego from both land and water!

    Starting from Seaport Village, this amphibious vehicle takes you through the streets, down Harbor Drive, and then into San Diego Bay all while learning interesting facts about San Diego’s history from your guide.

    The tour lasts about 1 hour and 45 minutes and is perfect for families. The tour doesn’t include gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off, or food and drinks.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Arrive at check-in at Seaport Village 30 minutes before your tour starts. We also recommend bringing a light jacket since it gets breezy on the water, even on sunny days.

    3. Seaport Village Events

    Seaport Village has exciting events all year round! From leprechauns and live music to commemorate St. Patrick’s Day to watching colorful kites fly at the Beach Bunny Kite Festival, plenty is happening.

    Check the Seaport Village website for the most up-to-date information on events.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: These events can attract a lot of visitors, making the area pretty busy. We suggest planning your visit around less crowded times or arriving early to events to beat the rush.

    4. Seaport Coffee & Fudge Factory

    Seaport Fudge Factory is one of San Diego’s most renowned dessert shops.

    For 30 years, they’ve been creating traditional treats like homemade fudge, caramel apples, ice cream, frozen treats, milkshakes, and specialty coffee-based drinks.

    The friendly staff are always ready to recommend their favorites or let you in on their latest seasonal flavors.

    They’re not only delicious but also have a range of healthier choices and dietary-conscious options like fat-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free DOLE SOFT SERVE®.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: This place is popular, so we suggest visiting during a weekday to avoid the crowds.

    5. Spill The Beans

    In this photo, a hand is holding a paper coffee cup with the playful words "Spill the Beans Coffee" in a teal and white pattern, a delightful find among the best things to do in Seaport Village San Diego. The backdrop reveals a reflection of the Seaport Village, hinting at the bustling ambiance outside the coffee shop
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    Voted as the “Best Coffee Shop” in 2017 by San Diego Downtown News, Spill the Beans is a local favorite for its delicious coffee, friendly atmosphere, and Instagram-worthy aesthetic.

    We got coffee from here. It was strong and kept us going post-lunch.

    Located in the heart of Seaport Village with outdoor seating and views overlooking the marina, it’s an ideal spot to grab your morning cup, breakfast brunch, or lunch.

    Although it’s a relatively small stall-like shop, you can opt to sit in or grab a coffee and snack to take out.

    This welcoming cafe is great for family or friends, and they’re LGBTQ+ friendly too!

    💡 Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on trying their Cabo-Cado Toast and Chagaccino for a unique twist on breakfast.

    6. Alamo Flags

    Alamo Flags is a small shop dedicated to all sorts of flags. Whether you’re into sports teams, countries, or anything else, they’ve probably got a flag for you!

    They also sell T-shirts and decals, making it a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs.

    The owner, Dean is known for his exceptional customer service. One customer mentioned that Dean turned their Instagram post into a custom flag that exceeded their expectations.

    The only downside is that the store is quite small, so it might get crowded during busy times.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip:  If you’re searching for a specific flag, just ask Dean. He goes above and beyond to find the perfect flag for his customers.

    7. American Nostalgia

    This novelty store takes you on a journey back through time with its large collection of artifacts and replicas from the past.

    If you’re looking for an unusual gift, American Nostalgia is the place to go. From Route 66 and Coca-Cola items to I Love Lucy and Marilyn Monroe memorabilia, there’s something for everyone.

    However, be aware that while the store is filled with fascinating items, some may find certain collectibles to be replicas rather than originals, which might not meet the expectations of serious collectors.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: The staff here are knowledgeable about the memorabilia on sale. If you want to find out more about the stories behind the items, just ask.

    8. American Heroes

    If you’re interested in American history, then we recommend American Heroes and American Nostalgia.

    They sell American clothing, accessories, and memorabilia dedicated to the U.S. armed forces and iconic American symbols like Route 66 and Coca-Cola.

    However, it’s worth taking note that their customer service can be a bit lax, especially when it comes to promotions.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: To avoid any issues at checkout, we suggest asking about promotion details before you start shopping. This way, you’re clear on the terms and can plan your purchases accordingly.

    9. Spot the Seaport Fountain

    This image features a whimsical white seahorse fountain rising from the center of a bright blue tiled circular pool, one of the best things to do in Seaport Village San Diego. The water cascades gently around the statue, adding a serene soundtrack to the bustling village atmosphere. In the background, visitors are seated on benches beneath the shade of lush trees, adjacent to charming shops with rustic wooden facades. It's a peaceful spot for relaxation and an Instagram-worthy photo opportunity in the heart of Seaport Village.
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    Visit the Seaport Fountain where you can relax on the shaded benches with views of the harbor.

    Centrally located in Seaport Village, it’s also a great spot to sit and wait while your significant other finishes their shopping.

    The fountain is sometimes decorated for special occasions.

    10. Beach City

    Beach City is a clothing store dedicated to coastal lifestyle apparel.

    From adorable and unique items to an impressive selection of brands like Vuori and Patagonia, this store has it all. They specialize in exclusive gear, including limited-edition collaborations and custom designs you won’t find anywhere else.

    While the store offers a fantastic variety of items, some of these exclusive pieces can be a bit pricey.

    Beach City is a great little place to find new brands and show off your love for the beach in style! They have really nice stuff, but it can get a bit $$$.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Make a budget before you go. This way, you can grab some unique items without spending too much money.

    11. Best of San Diego

    Best of San Diego is for anyone wanting to take a piece of San Diego home with them.

    This shop is packed with all sorts of gifts, from t-shirts and hats to key chains and even cat tumblers!

    This is one of the best spots to find souvenirs or gifts. However, it’s a small shop, so it might feel a bit crowded during busy times.

    The customer service here is excellent and the unique selection – especially for cat and dog-themed items – makes it worth a visit.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Although the store has a great selection of souvenirs, because of the captive market here in Seaport Village, you might find San Diego items cheaper elsewhere.

    12. Captain’s Cove

    This long-standing store is filled with nautical gifts, pirate treasures, and collectibles from all over the world.

    Captain’s Cove stocks everything sea-themed from lighthouses and mermaids to pirate gear and Caribbean soul clothing.

    Although the majority of their stock is very good quality, there are also a lot of cheaper, imported items.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: The staff are helpful so if you have a particular gift in mind they will give you plenty of recommendations.

    13. The Something Sweet Shop

    The photo shows the inside of a vibrant candy store, one of the sweetest spots among the best things to do in Seaport Village San Diego. With shelves stocked full of colorful candies and treats, the shop invites visitors of all ages to indulge in a world of sugary delights. A cheerful yellow M&M character adds to the fun atmosphere, waving at customers from its perch above the candy displays. The bright interior and varied selection make it a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth exploring Seaport Village
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    The Something Sweet Shop lets you explore the world of nostalgic candies and mouthwatering sweets. It was voted as one of the Top 10 places to visit in San Diego in 2021 by Jaycation San Diego, making it a must-see for anyone with a sweet tooth.

    We got a marzipan which we split between us after walking around Seaport Village.

    The storefront is a great spot for capturing Instagram-worthy photos, the store is filled with vibrant colors both inside and out.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: This is a popular spot and can get pretty crowded, especially on weekends so we suggest visiting on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

    14. Cariloha Bamboo (Cariloha and Del Sol)

    Cariloha Bamboo combines the Caribbean style with Aloha spirit. They sell products made from eco-friendly bamboo, promising both luxury and comfort.

    Since 2007, they’ve been the go-to for everything bamboo, from clothing to what they claim is the softest bedding on the planet.

    When you’re buying, make sure to check the labels as the material composition differs across the products.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you’re thinking of purchasing their bamboo products, you can also set up shipping for your orders. This is convenient if you’re traveling and unable to bring items back on a plane.

    15. Crazy Shirts

    Originating in Waikiki, Crazy Shirts stands out for using natural elements like plants and coffee to dye their shirts, making them not only stylish but also sustainable and planet-friendly.

    Their unique clothing stores have been offering specialty dyed T-shirts and casual wear with vibrant designs since 1964. Their designs reflect the lively Island lifestyle.

    Products range from men’s to women’s clothing, and including hats and sunglasses.

    Look for their blueberry-dyed turtle shirt or the sage-colored San Diego tee.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: The Seaport location is the biggest in San Diego and can get quite busy. Also, check out their sale section for some great deals!

    16. Destination City Gifts

    If you’re looking for all sorts of souvenirs and unique items, then we recommend Destination City Gifts.

    Whether it’s digital cameras, fragrances, or even San Diego-themed memorabilia, this place stocks a diverse range of products.

    One thing to be aware of is that, as a tourist shop, prices can be a bit higher than what you might expect.

    17. Bay Company

    This image showcases a collection of cork coasters and magnets on display, perfect souvenirs from Seaport Village San Diego. These items are emblazoned with iconic San Diego imagery, making them great keepsakes or gifts. Shoppers looking for a piece of San Diego to take home will find these items, along with other local memorabilia, in the shops of Seaport Village, which is among the best things to do in the area. The display is set against a backdrop of other tourist-friendly goods, highlighting the vibrant shopping experience at Seaport Village
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    If you’re on the hunt for the perfect Coronado Island souvenirs, you’ll find them at Bay Company.  

    This gift shop is packed with all the San Diego-themed merchandise and beach paraphernalia you could imagine, from unique logo wear and beach toys to their signature novelty socks.

    There are 2 branches, one is located in the heart of the Downtown District on Orange Avenue, and, this one, at Seaport Village.

    Prices here can be a bit steep, which is expected in tourist areas

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: This store has a large selection of quirky socks, which make for a fun and unique souvenir to bring home.

    18. Custom Commodity

    This store stocks personalized leather bracelets, trendy hats, and a wide variety of jewelry including silver-filled, plated, and sterling options.

    Custom Commodity is a great place to shop for unique gifts or something special for yourself.

    Staff are known for being super helpful.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If they run out of the ring size you need, they’ll go above and beyond to get the size back in stock. Contact them ahead of your visit to check what sizes are available.

    19. Eclectique Boutique

    Previously called Bubble’s Boutique, Eclectique Boutique, is a unique women’s clothing store.

    If you’re on the hunt for distinctive and playful additions to your wardrobe, this shop is your go-to spot. Eclectique Boutique offers a variety of quirky clothing and accessories from exclusive designer lines that are hard to find elsewhere.

    The boutique prides itself on collaborating with local artists, providing shoppers with stylish options ranging from quality clothing made of luxurious fabrics to beaded handbags, statement jewelry, and footwear.

    Depending on the item, some price tags can be quite steep.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: There’s often a sale rack outside the store with end-of-line items at great prices.

    20. Geppetto’s

    Geppetto’s Toys is a local favorite in San Diego, they’ve been selling toys for over 40 years.

    They stock everything from science kits to handcrafted traditional playthings.  It’s a great place to find educational and imaginative toys that are far from ordinary.

    Whether you’re looking for games, puzzles, crafts, or dolls, Geppetto’s is a great place to pick up a non-junky vacation souvenir or a gift for children.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: While the toys here are unique, they can be a bit pricey. Visit their online store to check out their deals and promotions before shopping in-store.

    21. San Diego Surf Co.

    In this photo, we're looking at the sunlit entrance of San Diego Surf Co., a shop that captures the essence of the city's surf culture. With its iconic sign and selection of casual surf apparel displayed outside, it invites both locals and visitors to explore its collection. Next door, the vibrant colors of kites and wind ornaments at the Kite Flite shop add a playful touch, highlighting the fun and diverse shopping experience that makes visiting Seaport Village one of the best things to do in San Diego. The shop fronts with their unique offerings sit under a traditional Spanish balcony, surrounded by bright flowers and a cobblestone path, enhancing the charming coastal vibe of the village.
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    This is the go-to place for anyone looking for some cool beach and surf wear.

    San Diego Surf Co. is located along the beautiful San Diego Harbor Boardwalk. This family-owned store is bursting with big-brand men’s and women’s surf wear, accessories, shoes, and much more.

    They’ve got a fantastic variety of items for everyone in the family, from shirts and shorts to sandals and stickers.

    The staff here are known for being friendly and helpful, and happy to offer assistance or recommendations.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a great deal, keep an eye out for sale items. One shopper found an amazing shirt on sale just before heading home.

    22. Harley-Davidson San Diego

    Visiting this Harley Davidson branded clothing store is a must, especially for fans of the iconic motorcycle brand.  

    With a wide range of authentic Harley Davidson apparel and accessories, you’ll be sure to find something that catches your eye.

    The store is known for its unique t-shirts, socks, jackets, belts, hats, and other motorcycle gear.

    Plus, the staff here are extremely knowledgeable about the brand and can help you find the perfect item.

    Some customers were disappointed to find this was only a clothing store, and no bikes were sold there.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you’re specifically looking for San Diego Harley tees, it might be best to call ahead and check the current stock to avoid disappointment. On occasion, they have to wait for a new shipment.

    23. Hot Licks

    Explore a world of spice at this interesting shop which specializes in globally sourced hot sauces, rubs, and spicy snacks.

    Hot Licks is a women-owned business and the go-to shop for anyone who loves a bit of heat in their meals.

    They stock an array of self-branded sauces and offer the chance to taste test, including the popular mild green jalapeño hot sauce. The store is perfect for finding your next favorite condiment or picking up unique gifts.

    One thing to note is that some sauces are extremely hot and might not be suitable for everyone’s palate.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about what to try, then ask the staff for recommendations. Tasting before buying is encouraged here, so take advantage of this to find your perfect level of heat.

    24. The Kids’ Opera

    This children’s store is located, right next to the fountain, and sells everything for kids who love squishy toys, slime, and stuffed animals.

    The Kids Opera also sells more unusual gifts like cute animal houses which come with 5 little stuffed toys, socks with soft animal heads at the top, and fun stationary.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Although this store has a lot of great gift ideas for kids, the prices are a little bit on the high side compared to nearby shops like Geppettos, where similar items could be found for less.

    25. Indian Trails Gallery

    In this sunny scene, the Indian Trails gift shop stands out with its distinctive pale blue façade and welcoming teal doors that are propped open, inviting in any curious visitor. Above the entrance, a charming sign adorned with Native American-inspired designs beckons shoppers to discover the treasures inside. This shop is a wonderful stop for those looking for unique souvenirs and is part of the vibrant shopping experience at Seaport Village, making it one of the best things to do in San Diego. Its traditional structure, complete with a rustic wooden exterior and a small tower feature, adds to the quaint charm of the village, set against the clear blue sky—a perfect memento of San Diego's rich heritage and culture
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    This jewelry store stocks beautiful Native American jewelry. You’ll find a large range of sterling silver necklaces to earrings adorned with semi-precious turquoise.

    Indian Trails Gallery prides itself on n being LGBTQ+ friendly.

    While the pieces are stunning some of their items can seem quite overpriced. There’s also some dispute about how much of the proceeds actually benefit the Native American artists who craft these beautiful pieces.

    Despite concerns about pricing, many customers rave about the exceptional customer service and the unique, handcrafted items available.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you’re worried about prices, keep an eye out for promotions. Alternatively, you could also support Native American artists and communities by purchasing directly from their websites or at local markets.

    26. Kite Flite

    Kite Flite is the go-to kite shop in Southern California. They are famous for stocking a wide range of high-quality kites, windsocks, and flying toys.

    What makes this shop stand out is its unique “fly before you buy” experience offered right outside the door. This makes sure that you find the perfect kite for you without any post-purchase regrets.

    The staff at Kite Flite are also very knowledgeable and can help you pick out the best kite for your level.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you don’t live in the area, or have room in your luggage, the shop offers shipping across the USA for a flat rate. You can even get your kite delivered internationally, although this does have a higher postal rate.

    27. Magnuts

    This quirky and fun shop is dedicated entirely to magnets! Imagine any design, character, or theme, and they probably have it ready to stick on your fridge – you’ll lose count of how many designs you see here.

    Magnets make perfect souvenirs, especially if you’re limited by space in your luggage.

    Magnuts is a great little shop to find a souvenir for your trip to San Diego. Although magnets are their main focus, they also sell shot glasses.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: From floor to ceiling, the walls are covered with hundreds of designs, it’s nearly impossible to visit without buying a couple of magnets because they’re all so tempting.

    28. Ocean Avenue

    If you’re looking for a stunning collection of ocean-themed home goods, jewelry, and a decent selection of sunglasses from brands like Maui Jim and Ray-Ban then Ocean Avenue needs to be on your radar.

    The accessories here try to capture the essence of San Diego’s coastal lifestyle.

    Whether you’re looking to treat yourself, or a special gift for someone else, the collection has been carefully chosen to ensure every item reflects the elegance and charm of the ocean.

    Customer service here is excellent.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Because of the exclusivity of some of these items they often come with a high price tag.

    29. San Pasqual Winery Tasting Room

    Looking for a great place to enjoy handcrafted wines made from grapes sourced from local vineyards and renowned areas across California? Then it’s worth checking out San Pasqual Winery.

    The winery is the ideal place for date nights or a relaxing evening out, and with outdoor seating overlooking the harbor, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

    They offer a variety of tastings and flights, allowing you to sample different wines and find your new favorite. The expert staff are keen to share their expertise and provide recommendations based on your preferences.

    It’s also worth checking the winery’s schedule for live performances to enhance your visit

    Just note that the tasting room in La Mesa is quite small, which adds to its charm but it does get crowded and noisy.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Although they’re known for their exceptional red wines, one of the wines here we highly recommend is their unique habanero passionfruit rose and the “Classy but Sassy” spritzer.

    30. Safari Animal Collection

    This shop is like a mini safari adventure for anyone who loves animals.

    The Safari Animal Collection is packed with collectible figurines, plush toys, T-shirts, and even wall art. You’ll find everything from adorable dog breed figurines to unique ocean plushies as well as home goods.

    It’s the go-to place in San Diego for finding special gifts for animal enthusiasts or just treating yourself to some cute animal decor.

    The staff is also great with kids, making it a nice spot to escape the heat and browse for something special beyond the usual t-shirts found in most of the shops in the area.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Despite some of the factory-made items, like stuffed animals, can be pretty pricey, we love that some of the handmade items here are surprisingly affordable.

    31. Seaport Shades

    This small kiosk-style shop sells the largest range and most affordable sunglasses in the area.

    Seaport Shades have a wide variety of colors, shapes, sizes, and styles, so you’re sure to find something that suits you perfectly.

    They have excellent customer service and if you ever break your shades, just like one customer did, they’re more than willing to help you replace them, even shipping to places as far as Ohio.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Seaport Shades frequently have discounts and offers so it’s certainly worth a visit if you’re looking for an affordable pair of sunglasses while exploring the area.

    32. Seaport Shoe Company

    Seaport Shoe Company is the best place to find different shoe brands like Teva, Sanuk, and TOMS. The store might feel small, but they have a decent range of shoes in stock.

    The staff are friendly and helpful, try on as many pairs as you like without feeling pushed into a purchase.

    One thing to be aware of is that the shoes can be a bit pricey.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: This store has free parking for customers, so don’t forget to ask about parking validation when you make a purchase.

    33. Historic Carousel

    Here's a picture of a classic carousel in Seaport Village, San Diego. Bright lights twinkle on the top, and the painted horses look ready to leap into a gallop. This carousel is not just a ride but a piece of art, with intricate details on each horse and chariot that tell their own story. It’s a must-do for families and anyone who wants to feel like a kid again, making it one of the best things to do in Seaport Village. Riding this merry-go-round is like stepping into a magical time machine, with joyful music and the laughter of riders in the air
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    Step back in time with a ride on the 1895 Fair Park Looff Carousel at San Diego’s Seaport Village.

    Its journey from Brooklyn, NY, to various locations, was followed by settling in San Diego. Its restoration and place in the National Register of Historic Places brought it back to its original glory to ensure future generations can enjoy it.

    This historic carousel found its final home here in 2004 and is popular with adults and children.

    A ride on the carousel costs $5 per rider. It’s open daily from 10 am until 9 pm.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: We recommend bringing the exact change if you want to ride. Also, for fewer queues, aim to visit earlier in the day.

    34. Sock Harbor

    Imagine pulling on socks so quirky and fun that they instantly make your day better.  Well, that’s the ethos behind Sock Harbor.

    Since transforming from a children’s clothing store in 2016, Sock Harbor has become the place to go for those looking to express themselves uniquely from the ankles down.

    They have over 2,000 designs of socks for men and women ranging from brightly colored and crazy patterned, to fuzzy slipper socks.

    They have excellent customer service and also stock a range of knitted beanies, performance belts, and stylish eyewear.

    With such a vast selection, the only downside might be spending way too much time (and possibly money) choosing the ones you love.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for their special holiday editions, and be sure to check their website for upcoming sales and promotions.

    35. Urban Girl Accessories

    Are you a fan of earthy and whimsical women’s apparel? Then Urban Girl Accessories will be right up your street.

    They stock everything from accessories to home decor, cards, and gifts.

    They specialize in unique and kitschy items that are hard to find elsewhere, making it a perfect spot for picking up a special gift for someone.

    Apart from their signature items, they also sell more feminine or typically girlie outfits for teens and kids.

    This store offers a variety of moderately priced products.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Bring your kids here! The store carries a wide range of cute and affordable items.

    36. Village Hat Shop

    This hat store is a treasure trove for hat enthusiasts. The Village Hat Store sells an extensive range of men’s and women’s designs.

    From casual baseball caps to elegant berets, there’s something for everyone no matter the occasion. They also sell a few accessories to pair with your new hat, such as scarves and gloves.  

    The staff go above and beyond to assist customers providing excellent customer service and are knowledgeable about their products. They are also happy to assist overseas customers.

    If you’re not sure which hat would suit you, then you can also try on as many hats as you like with no pressure or hard sell to purchase.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: If you’re keen on finding the perfect hat but worried about what will be in stock when you visit, then we recommend emailing ahead. They might be able to schedule a personal shopping session with the staff.

    37. Embarcadero Marina Park

    This photo shows the striking statue of a sailor at the Embarcadero Marina Park near Seaport Village in San Diego. It’s a heartfelt tribute to maritime heritage, capturing the spirit of sea voyages and naval history. The green lawns around the statue are lush and well-kept, with vibrant red poinsettias adding a pop of color. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection or just to enjoy the sunshine and sea breeze. Visiting this statue and park is definitely among the best things to do in Seaport Village San Diego, providing a serene escape and a moment of connection to the city's nautical roots.
    Image Credit: Bae Area and Beyond

    This park is divided into 2 sides: Embarcadero Marina Park North and Embarcadero Marina Park South. It’s the perfect place to relax and have a picnic while enjoying the beautiful views of Coronado Bridge and San Diego Bay.

    At the park, you’ll find public art installations plus a full calendar of events, and you’ll often see people flying their kites. or perusing the pop-up stalls which sell everything from handmade souvenirs to fortune-telling services.

    There are plenty of amenities at the park like picnic tables and bike paths.

    Dogs are allowed here, but they must be kept on a leash. There are no areas where they can roam freely.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: To make the most of your visit, arrive early to find an empty picnic table. Also, free parking begins at 8 pm.

    38. Windsong

    Wind Song is a specialist store that sells all sorts of home and garden decorations like wind chimes, bird feeders, fountains, and even whimsical garden decor.

    All of their products focus on creating a zen-like feeling around your home and garden.

    The store has been around since 1984, and it’s known in the area for its high-quality items and friendly service. Staff are knowledgeable and understanding, and will help you find the perfect piece for your space as well as give advice on how to mount or fit the item.

    The staff are also family-friendly, so if you’re visiting with kids, don’t worry about them wanting to try out the wind chimes.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: It’s worth visiting their online store to check what products are in stock. Some items are a little pricey, so it’s wise to see how they would fit within your home before making an impulse purchase.   

    39. Christopher Harvey Art Gallery

    Christopher Harvey is a local artist who creates vivid art that captures life through dynamic landscapes and portraits. His style prioritizes immediacy over realism. He works using acrylic paints on canvas or wood.

    You can see his pieces at his self-named Christopher Harvey Art Gallery. The textured pieces with bold elements feature a mix of animals, portraits, and landscapes. You’ll also be able to see his drawings.

    The pieces are available to buy – we recommend browsing online if you have something particular in mind. At the gallery, you’ll find a selection of original prints on canvas, matted prints, and even his designs printed onto hoodies!

    If you’re looking for a gift, then Christopher takes commissions as well as sells gift cards.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: On occasion, they run workshops here. They are open to anyone interested in learning acrylic painting. Check the website for the schedule.

    40. Funny Features

    Bjorn is a super-talented caricature artist and the face behind Funny Features.

    He’s been drawing caricatures for 25 years, making people laugh with his funny and imaginative drawings. Not only can you find him at Seaport Village, but he is also available for event hire.

    Whether it’s a wedding, trade show, or holiday party, Bjorn’s caricatures are sure to be a hit.

    Google reviews mention that he is affordable and reliable, but also bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: While hiring Bjorn, keep in mind that caricature artists like him are often in high demand, especially for big events. To make sure you get him for your party, plan ahead and book early.

    41. Tuna Harbor Dockside Market

    The Saturday marketplace is an exciting spot where you can find stalls selling fish, shrimp, and more, all freshly caught by local fishermen.

    Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is known for its friendly vendors and delicious seafood, like the Wahoo and Monchong fish.

    The only downside is that this market is only open on Saturday mornings between 8 am and 2 pm.

    If you’re an early bird, we suggest arriving before the opening time, as lines can get long quickly, but they move fast.

    đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Bring a cooler for your purchases; the market provides ice and offers a fish filleting service for a small fee.

    Final Thoughts

    Seaport Village in San Diego is packed with plenty of things to do. Whether you’re tasting sweet treats, attending one of their themed events, or shopping for a unique gift, there’s something for everyone.

    Want to explore more of San Diego? Check out our other articles to start planning your visit today.

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