San Diego Yacht Charter Guide

Southern California's sunny Pacific coastline hosts a range of delights for a yacht charter, including the laid-back, charming region of San Diego. Referred to as 'America's finest city,' it is home to one of the West Coast's best natural harbors - San Diego Bay - the perfect launchpad for your yachting vacation, full of boutique marinas providing easy access to coastal and offshore excursions. Steeped in a rich maritime history, San Diego offers a blend of seaside charm with relaxed city sophistication. From the Pacific swells to the calm bays, there are water-based activities for everyone, from surfing to whale watching, and ashore, further adventure awaits within the pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, city sightseeing attractions, and a vibrant art and culinary scene. 

Best Time To Visit:  The steady year-round climate makes cruising here flexible, but the fall and spring shoulder seasons avoid the summer crowds. 

Key Cruising Areas: Mission Bay, the largest artificial aquatic park in the USA, is an excellent destination for watersports, while San Diego Bay offers access to city landmarks and a vibrant atmosphere. 

Don't Miss: Cruising the picturesque La Jolla Cove, explore the clear waters and stunning coastal landscapes, along with the large population of sea lions here. 

Best Spots for Wining and Dining:  From casual to fine dining, combining authentic Mexican influence with freshly caught seafood, the culinary scene is not to be missed. Discover the many hotspots within Little Italy, including Juniper & Ivy, which has an innovative 

Best Local Dish: You'll find oysters on practically every menu across the city, mainly in 'Baja-style,' served with a Mexican twist. As 'America's craft beer capital,' you have around 150 breweries to choose from.

Local Culture: Tour the iconic USS Midway Museum, a historical landmark and aircraft carrier museum, and learn more about the naval influence. 

Best Beach: A quintessential San Diego experience, Coronado Beach has gentle surf and golden sands, with a backdrop of the historic Hotel del Coronado. 

IYC recommends:  Explore further afield and cruise to the eight-island archipelago of the Channel Islands along the Santa Barbara Channel. The largest and most varied is Santa Cruz, ideal for an afternoon hike, returning to the yacht's anchorage for a relaxing evening under the stars.