SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — With the holiday shopping season in full force, finding the perfect gift for loved ones can be a challenge. While traditional gifts like clothing or gadgets are always appreciated, giving the gift of an experience can create lasting memories.
If you’re looking to give something special this year, here are five San Diego-based experiences that can be enjoyed by friends and family of all ages.
Balboa Park Explorer Pass
For the art and culture lovers on your list, a Balboa Park Explorer Pass offers access to some of San Diego’s best museums. The pass provides entry to 16 participating museums and intuitions for an entire year. It also offers special discounts for special events and exhibitions.
Some of the participating museums include the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum, San Diego Air and Space Museum, San Diego Natural History Museum, the WorldBeat Center, and many more. The annual pass costs $99.
Culinary Tour of Little Italy
San Diego’s Little Italy district is known for its vibrant dining scene. In fact, it was recently named California’s “best food neighborhood” by popular foodie guide LoveFood. A guided food tour is the perfect gift for anyone who enjoys exploring local flavors. From homemade pasta to innovative Italian-inspired dishes, foodies can enjoy samples at top restaurants while learning about the area’s history and culture.
There are several options when it comes to booking these delicious tours. For instance, So Diego offers tours for $88. Then there’s Little Italy Tours, which offers a variation of styles at different rates. There’s also Another Side of San Diego with tours selling for $75, among other options.
Whale Watching Adventure
One of the most breathtaking natural experiences in San Diego is the annual migration of gray whales. According to Legacy Whale Watch, the season typically runs from December through April. For the nature and marine life lovers, what better holiday gift than a whale watching tour?
Local companies like City Experiences ($57) and San Diego Whale Watch ($65) offer guided excursions that take you out on the water for an up-close look at these majestic creatures. There are sure to be great photo opportunities during the tours, making for a memorable experience for those of all ages.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park Adventure
This gift is for the animal enthusiasts and those longing to go an African safari without having to take flight. Located just outside of the city in Escondido, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to more than 3,500 animals from around the world.
Gifting a safari tour allows recipients to experience the park’s expansive, open-range habitats while getting an up-close look at exotic wildlife. There are several different options when it comes to the tours, with prices ranging from just $29 for the walking tour up to $160 for what’s known as the Ultimate Safari. All the options and prices can be found here.
Surfing Lesson at Pacific Beach
San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches and some say there’s no better place to learn to surf than Pacific Beach. A surfing lesson from one of the area’s many surf schools is an exciting way to experience the ocean and pick up a new skill. This gift could lead to a life-long hobby for some.
Schools like Surf Diva and Pacific Surf School offer lessons for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. This active experience could create memories that last long after the holiday season, making it an ideal gift for anyone looking to take on the waves.
This holiday season, go beyond the usual presents and consider giving the gift of a memorable San Diego experience. Whether it’s exploring the wonders of nature, indulging in world-class cuisine, or immersing yourself in the city’s cultural offerings, these five experiences will ensure your gift stands out.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
