San Diego’s scenic Embarcadero is the essence of the city.
Fact checked by
Erin Medlicott
San Diego is a city of different flavors and topography. However, it is primarily a waterfront city. Therefore, what better way to immerse yourself in the essence of this city than to embark on a walking tour along the San Diego waterfront? The skyline, saltwater, gentle breeze, and colorful sights all create a leisurely and interesting walk along the central part of San Diego Bay.
To begin your self-guided walking tour, the foot of Broadway at the Broadway Pier is the most convenient starting point. A pay parking lot is located a block away, along with numerous coin meter spaces along Harbor Drive. For those utilizing public transit, the San Diego Trolley stops at the Santa Fe Railroad Station, which is a mere couple of blocks away. Moreover, if you are staying in downtown hotels, the Broadway Pier is just a short walk away.
North From Broadway Pier
Walking north past the harbor tours, you will approach the Cruise Ship Terminal, where massive international cruise ships occasionally make their ports of call in San Diego. As you continue your walk, you’ll encounter Anthony’s Fish Grotto, a renowned San Diego institution. This dockside building offers both an informal takeout counter and the semi-formal, pricier Star of the Sea Room.
Just beyond Anthony’s is the majestic Star of India, a historic, tall-masted iron ship dating back to 1863. This national historic landmark holds the title of the world’s oldest ship still seaworthy, making a sea journey at least once a year. In this area of the Embarcadero, you’ll also find three other ships that comprise the San Diego Maritime Museum: the Berkeley, a Victorian-era ferryboat; the Medea, a 1904 steam yacht; and the Pilot, a 1914 guide boat. A nominal admission fee is required to board the boats.
If you look across the bay at this juncture, you will see the North Island Naval Air Station, where the U.S. Navy ports its large aircraft carriers and fighter jets. Looking back across Harbor Drive, you’ll also notice the historic County Administration Building and pleasure craft sailing gracefully on the bay.
South From Broadway Pier
As you proceed south from Broadway Pier, you will encounter Navy Pier, where Navy ships frequently dock and offer free tours to the public. Navy Pier is also the new museum home of the aircraft carrier, Midway. Continuing your walk, you’ll pass several Navy buildings and gain a glimpse into naval life.
As you continue, you will approach several small green spaces, alongside the popular Fish Market Restaurant. It may be an excellent time to take a short break, enjoy a drink and snack, and savor the scenic views. Although this area of the waterfront was once home to one of the largest tuna fleets globally, most commercial ships have now departed, yet you can still sense the aura of the former fishermen.
Venturing farther south, you will arrive at Seaport Village, a beloved shopping and dining complex along the waterfront. Here, you can explore dozens of shops, ride the carousel, or simply watch the lively atmosphere surrounding you. Seaport Village also provides a perfect opportunity to indulge in a relaxing meal, with various fine restaurants and food stands, including the Harbor House Restaurant.
After dining, make your way to the adjacent Embarcadero Marina Park, where you can enjoy open green spaces, breathtaking views of Coronado across the bay, and the yacht marina adjacent to the Hyatt and Marriott towers. Just a short walk past these hotels will lead you to the San Diego Convention Center, renowned for its distinctive “sail” rooftop.
At this point, if you wish to return to Broadway Pier, you can catch the Trolley in front of the Convention Center and head back, or if you’re still keen on enjoying the day, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront of San Diego one last time, absorbing the soothing views.
