Title: Desert Garden in San Diego - Tours and Activities | Expedia.ca

[Desert Garden Hotels](https://expedia.ca/Desert-Garden-Hotels.0-l6230106-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels)[Flights to San Diego](https://expedia.ca/Cheap-Flights-To-San-Diego.d3073.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in San Diego](https://expedia.ca/Things-To-Do-In-San-Diego.d3073.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Desert Garden Car Rentals](https://expedia.ca/Car-Rentals-In-Desert-Garden.d6230106.Car-Rental-Guide)[San Diego Vacation Packages](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego.d3073.Destination-Travel-Guides)

# Desert Garden Tours and Activities

![Desert Garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230106/952dc09d-4796-46c3-ba2f-becbdc2cf330.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Desert Garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230106/952dc09d-4796-46c3-ba2f-becbdc2cf330.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Desert Garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230106/5d95bb21-41c4-46bf-9e54-454b1571d3ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Desert Garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230106/7739f52f-869a-4130-be3e-8a2ea14a1d14.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

![Desert Garden](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230106/fd078f81-b5be-4fb0-a4e0-7023e37f4f55.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)

## Visit Desert Garden

Activities

[San Diego travel guide](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego.dx3073)

---

---

#### No other garden is as natural to San Diego as this slightly secluded area. Stroll through this green space to see plant species not commonly found in other parks.

San Diego is by all appearances a lush city, but it borders desert, easily observed by driving just outside the city core to visit Desert Garden. Reach the garden by going through sprawling Balboa Park and crossing the pedestrian bridge near the San Diego Natural History Museum. 

The garden’s 2.5 acres (1 hectare) has a large collection of cacti, bromeliads and many succulents, with more than 1,300 individual plants. The area is arid in keeping with its desert status, so wear a hat, as you are unlikely to find much shade.

One benefit of including this garden in a visit is appreciating the number of fascinating plant shapes and colors. Visit from January to March when the garden often explodes with brilliant hues such as the yellow blooms on the palo verde, the reddish orange of aloe thraskii or light green foliage of the Queensland bottle tree.

The Joshua tree is shaped very artistically while the weeping Euphorbia ingens is surrealistic, similar to some of the creative drawings of Dr. Seuss. Imagine the symmetric quiver tree as the perfect specimen to have on a front lawn however, it is, once again, a desert plant.

Walk on flat paved pathways through this collection of plants that are sourced both locally and from other arid regions of the world. The setting is particularly photographic at dusk.

Compared to other parts of Balboa Park, which dates back to 1868, Desert Garden is from the mid 1970s and a relative newcomer. Don’t confuse this spot with the much older Cactus Garden in another area of the same park. Visit the nearby Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, which is included with free admission and is always open.

Spend a bit more time in Balboa Park to visit other areas with interesting vegetation, including the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Australian Garden and the EthnoBotany Children’s Peace Garden.

## Plan a trip to see Desert Garden

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

![Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/5400/5328/cfe599b5_y.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

### Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

Downtown San Diego

CA $1,346

per person

Apr 27 - May 4

found 7 hours ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Edmonton (YEG) to San Diego (SAN)

9/10 Wonderful! (1,520 reviews)

Husband and I decided to visit San Diego last minute and after researching the downtown area decided the location of ES fit us perfectly. Short walk from the 992 bus stop to and from the airport. We booked through Expedia and selected a King Corner Suite. We had a wonderful view of the Harbor and will miss waking up to that in the am. Room was very spacious and clean. We enjoyed the nightly reception, bartenders were so friendly. Breakfast ran like a well oiled machine and food selection was wonderful. We were able to use our resort fee at the on-site restaurant and gift shop. The pizza at The restaurant was very good and the staff was excellent-thank you Chris! Gift shop attendant very helpful in helping us as well. This ES was the best one we have stayed at in a very long time. The location is a perfect for Seaport Village, walking to the Gaslamp District, Midway, and we even walked to Little Italy. Will definitely stay here again!

Reviewed on Feb 21, 2026

![Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort ](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/60000000/59830000/59823000/59822958/ede97f57_y.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

### Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas, a Hyatt Luxury Resort 

CA $1,598

per person

Apr 26 - Apr 30

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

Vancouver (YVR) to San Diego (SAN)

8.8/10 Excellent! (221 reviews)

The rooms are more ran-down than you expect for the price. And the staff is not very friendly at all. Just ok…

Reviewed on Feb 21, 2026

![Shore House at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/77000000/76520000/76510800/76510728/w3840h2877x0y3-c3d52563_y.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

### Shore House at The Del, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Historic Downtown Coronado

CA $3,041

per person

Mar 29 - Apr 3

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Edmonton (YEG) to San Diego (SAN)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (109 reviews)

All was wonderful. Have to say that after making reservations two months in advance m, I was a bit disappointed in where we were placed. I should have said something when we check in but once I got over what I was expecting, the room location was okay but the room itself was over the top. We will go again but be a bit more vocal in our room placement. But this place comes with our strong recommendation to stay.

Reviewed on Dec 12, 2025

### Tours & day trips

[See all 218 activities](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/search?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&filter.categories=ToursDayTrips)

![San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & Sea](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/169163/e5fec693-a945-4780-9f8f-a4c1ce606b1c.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego SEAL Tour by Land & Sea

1h 45m

9.2/10

217 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $76

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-seal-tour-by-land-sea.a169163.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego City Lights Night Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/3907955/fcb14693-9145-4497-a52e-df7bfc5ecad7.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego City Lights Night Tour

1h 30m

9.6/10

35 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $67

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-city-lights-night-tour.a3907955.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/169055/da4435da-b137-45e8-a5e0-1aaa7d695324.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego Old Town Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

1d+

9.4/10

545 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $78

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-old-town-trolley-hop-on-hop-off-tour.a169055.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4514400/c3682be2-e779-4be6-af2f-095c69fa2279.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves

2h

9.2/10

202 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $109

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/la-jolla-2-hour-kayak-tour-of-the-7-caves.a4514400.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watching Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50757423/c64210c4-7438-4080-aca1-5c80ea42d998.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: 3 Hour Whale Watching Cruise

3h

10/10

2 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $46

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-whale-watching-3-hour-tour-mission-bay-on-the-legacy.a50757423.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50485214/041d391c-7565-4d4e-86a6-6933f6e0e5b7.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: Museum of Illusions Entry Ticket

8.4/10

5 verified reviews

CA $48

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-museum-of-illusions-entry-ticket.a50485214.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Sunset Sail Along the San Diego Skyline](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/702686/c0ca3f76-f36d-4941-b0fb-5486a4e3511b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Sunset Sail Along the San Diego Skyline

2h

10/10

350 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $149

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/small-group-sunset-sailing-experience-on-san-diego-bay.a702686.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Crossing Borders: Tijuana Day Trip from San Diego](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48193768/b44264f9-db27-4b7e-bcd7-4af756e2b001.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Crossing Borders: Tijuana Day Trip from San Diego

5h 30m

9/10

10 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $127

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/crossing-borders-tijuana-day-trip-from-san-diego.a48193768.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Glow Electric Boat night date experience in San Diego Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/2841176/da122eba-ae65-4ffc-944f-8a23f46fd7e7.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Glow Electric Boat night date experience in San Diego Bay

1h

10/10

1 Viator review

Free cancellation available

CA $102

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/harbour-sailing-experience-small-group.a2841176.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Whaley House Museum Day Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4963593/f960b663-f862-470b-b971-6e0af1ac090a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Whaley House Museum Day Tour

6h 30m

9.4/10

10 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $20

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/whaley-house-museum-day-tour.a4963593.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

### History & culture

[See all 84 activities](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/search?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&filter.categories=HistoryCulture)

![USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/169468/512c46cd-ffa9-43b5-a708-b12ec42fe6bf.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### USS Midway Museum with Direct-to-Gate

1d

9.8/10

1,488 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $56

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/uss-midway-museum-with-direct-to-gate.a169468.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50 Percent - Includes USS Midway](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/3280085/d827a858-bc57-410e-91d0-e458588fc886.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego Explorer Pass: Save up to 50 Percent - Includes USS Midway

30d

8.6/10

29 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $169

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-explorer-pass-save-up-to-50-percent-includes-uss-midway.a3280085.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Museum of Illusions San Diego Admission Ticket](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50810471/bd323fce-3656-448a-8a38-813e803489c8.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Museum of Illusions San Diego Admission Ticket

1h 30m

5.6/10

4 Viator reviews

CA $48

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/museum-of-illusions-san-diego-admission-ticket.a50810471.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Crossing Borders: Tijuana Day Trip from San Diego](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48193768/b44264f9-db27-4b7e-bcd7-4af756e2b001.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Crossing Borders: Tijuana Day Trip from San Diego

5h 30m

9/10

10 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $127

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/crossing-borders-tijuana-day-trip-from-san-diego.a48193768.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Whaley House Museum Day Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4963593/f960b663-f862-470b-b971-6e0af1ac090a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Whaley House Museum Day Tour

6h 30m

9.4/10

10 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $20

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/whaley-house-museum-day-tour.a4963593.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Maritime Museum of San Diego Admission Ticket](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/699295/eaa1d711-2337-4bb1-a979-d82bd0026915.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Maritime Museum of San Diego Admission Ticket

2h

9.6/10

14 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $38

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/maritime-museum-of-san-diego-admission-ticket.a699295.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: Old Town Ghost-Themed Walking Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/44647469/d9619e35-0aaf-42f2-ba8f-d72a70ef772e.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: Old Town Ghost-Themed Walking Tour

1h 30m

10/10

2 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $41

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-old-town-ghost-themed-walking-tour.a44647469.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Sinister Shadows of San Diego Gaslamp Ghost Tours](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48146053/3414660a-be36-4904-8f9d-b2a473b79e6c.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Sinister Shadows of San Diego Gaslamp Ghost Tours

1h

9.8/10

9 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $37

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/sinister-shadows-of-san-diego-gaslamp-ghost-tours.a48146053.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: Gaslamp District Food Tour with 6 Local Dishes](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4583705/88fbe52f-45c0-465d-b4b6-ded10d05ebf1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: Gaslamp District Food Tour with 6 Local Dishes

3h

9.4/10

3 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $132

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-guided-secret-food-tour.a4583705.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Walking Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48369590/40bee95e-3f2a-4d18-b8d9-78b81e18b626.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Walking Tour

2h

10/10

1 verified review

Free cancellation available

CA $14

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/a-seaside-stroll-la-jollas-hidden-treasures-walking-tour.a48369590.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

### Private & custom tours

[See all 74 activities](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/search?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&filter.categories=Privatecustomtours)

![Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46115639/0418a33a-df52-4235-b9f3-b96b402a2472.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour

6h

9/10

9 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $16

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/beaches-bluffs-san-diegos-ultimate-coastal-driving-tour.a46115639.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Gondola Cruise through the Coronado Cays](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46684426/2067661d-9642-4c51-a0c8-477d22b80484.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Gondola Cruise through the Coronado Cays

50m

9.8/10

79 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $203

includes taxes & fees

per adult\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/gondola-cruise-through-the-coronado-cays.a46684426.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Essential San Diego 5 Self Guided Walking Tours Bundle](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/51172998/7780f174-63af-46f1-99a1-6025f9353087.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Essential San Diego 5 Self Guided Walking Tours Bundle

8h

Free cancellation available

CA $41

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/essential-san-diego-5-self-guided-walking-tours-bundle.a51172998.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Gaslamp Adventure Walking: Personalised Self-Guided App Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/47481153/85c45785-e1f7-4c8f-a951-5946c0f8de7a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Gaslamp Adventure Walking: Personalised Self-Guided App Tour

3h

Free cancellation available

CA $7

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/private-walking-tour-and-gaslamp-adventure-in-san-diego.a47481153.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Luxury GPS Talking Tour Car: Balboa & City centre](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/44645595/229d53d6-b9ef-488d-80b6-0269dec37007.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Luxury GPS Talking Tour Car: Balboa & City centre

Free cancellation available

CA $306

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/luxury-gps-talking-tour-car-balboa-city-centre.a44645595.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Solana Beach: E-Bike Tour to Torrey Pines or North Coast](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48225588/c455119d-56cc-47ca-9af9-1a08bf072b1b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Solana Beach: E-Bike Tour to Torrey Pines or North Coast

2h

9.8/10

6 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $123

includes taxes & fees

per adult\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/solana-beach-e-bike-tour-to-torrey-pines-or-north-coast.a48225588.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![GPS Talking GoCar 1HR Tour: City centre & Gaslamp](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/1386584/efd4ff8d-00bb-4bff-b0b3-8f5de8df8706.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### GPS Talking GoCar 1HR Tour: City centre & Gaslamp

1h

10/10

2 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $142

includes taxes & fees

per adult\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/gps-talking-gocar-1hr-tour-city-centre-gaslamp.a1386584.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Discover San Diego’s Little Italy on a Self-Guided Audio Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50212421/8d18335e-f6bb-459c-941a-23f5e28b37b2.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Discover San Diego’s Little Italy on a Self-Guided Audio Tour

1h

Free cancellation available

CA $14

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/discover-san-diegos-little-italy-on-a-self-guided-audio-tour.a50212421.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Experience San Diego Motorcycle Adventure](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50240270/e8a1f020-c92e-4091-b02d-136de7815aaf.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Experience San Diego Motorcycle Adventure

2h

Free cancellation available

CA $89

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/experience-san-diego-motorcycle-adventure.a50240270.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Coronado: GPS-Guided Private Electric Open-Top Car Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/44633045/dabc1f7c-4763-4a04-9618-e776f75f0b86.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Coronado: GPS-Guided Private Electric Open-Top Car Tour

2h

10/10

1 verified review

Free cancellation available

CA $314

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/coronado-gps-guided-private-electric-open-top-car-tour.a44633045.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

### Food, drink & nightlife

[See all 50 activities](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/search?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&filter.categories=FoodDrinkNightlife)

![City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/249262/6430755c-aaf5-4339-9000-11447afc253b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### City Cruises San Diego: Premier Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise

2h

9/10

24 verified reviews

CA $136

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-premier-bottomless-mimosa-brunch-cruise.a249262.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Dinner & Dancing Harbour Cruise in San Diego](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/280479/eea75f25-38a9-46f6-9196-e04983ac7a83.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Dinner & Dancing Harbour Cruise in San Diego

3h

8.8/10

64 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $171

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/dinner-dancing-harbour-cruise-in-san-diego.a280479.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Glow Electric Boat night date experience in San Diego Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/2841176/da122eba-ae65-4ffc-944f-8a23f46fd7e7.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Glow Electric Boat night date experience in San Diego Bay

1h

10/10

1 Viator review

Free cancellation available

CA $102

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/harbour-sailing-experience-small-group.a2841176.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Champagne Brunch Buffet](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/280447/b740d5f3-c5af-4c61-8b6a-1d3da3655cd1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Champagne Brunch Buffet

2h

9.2/10

31 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $171

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/champagne-brunch-buffet.a280447.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![City Cruises San Diego: Signature Dinner Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49411393/a05a4ec8-8bd3-42a2-ab92-ac7c0f4e7748.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### City Cruises San Diego: Signature Dinner Cruise

2h 30m

8/10

3 verified reviews

CA $147

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-signature-dinner-cruise.a49411393.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![City Cruises San Diego: Premier Dinner Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/169195/1f8fc7b6-f3da-4106-884a-1f1f26fcf6c8.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### City Cruises San Diego: Premier Dinner Cruise

3h

9/10

140 verified reviews

CA $184

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-premier-dinner-cruise.a169195.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Taste of Little Italy in San Diego](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4458949/561ae118-83e9-4a41-8908-2c8ba26aac56.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Taste of Little Italy in San Diego

3h 30m

10/10

311 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $127

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/taste-of-little-italy-in-san-diego.a4458949.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego Bay: 2.5 hour Pure Catamaran Sailing Cruise](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49912383/2d09581b-4923-4f4b-a20f-d16b537a9973.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego Bay: 2.5 hour Pure Catamaran Sailing Cruise

2h 30m

10/10

10 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $162

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-bay-2-5-hour-pure-catamaran-sailing-cruise.a49912383.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Sunday Dinner on the Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/280495/1b322ed5-379e-438e-94bf-41c3f7a2e7ee.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Sunday Dinner on the Bay

3h

9.6/10

31 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $171

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/sunday-dinner-on-the-bay.a280495.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: Gaslamp District Food Tour with 6 Local Dishes](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4583705/88fbe52f-45c0-465d-b4b6-ded10d05ebf1.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: Gaslamp District Food Tour with 6 Local Dishes

3h

9.4/10

3 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $132

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-guided-secret-food-tour.a4583705.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

### Water activities

[See all 24 activities](https://expedia.ca/things-to-do/search?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&filter.categories=Wateractivities)

![La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/4514400/c3682be2-e779-4be6-af2f-095c69fa2279.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### La Jolla: 2-Hour Kayak Tour of the 7 Caves

2h

9.2/10

202 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $109

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/la-jolla-2-hour-kayak-tour-of-the-7-caves.a4514400.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Speed Boat Adventure Tour: Thrills on the San Diego Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/423137/6306cd89-8719-4585-a452-7269750ca304.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Speed Boat Adventure Tour: Thrills on the San Diego Bay

1h 30m

9.6/10

48 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $129

includes taxes & fees

per traveller

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/speed-boat-adventure-tour.a423137.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Kayak on the San Diego Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/2886775/5d70d5e6-3235-441a-b04c-fe30d2d13cd6.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Kayak on the San Diego Bay

1h

9.6/10

31 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $27

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/kayak-on-the-san-diego-bay.a2886775.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Patriot Jet Boat Sightseeing Ride on San Diego Bay](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/280459/91527301-db8d-4139-bb7f-8254227fca28.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Patriot Jet Boat Sightseeing Ride on San Diego Bay

30m

9.6/10

83 verified reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $61

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/patriot-jet-boat-sightseeing-ride-on-san-diego-bay.a280459.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: Sunset and Day Sailing Excursion with Drinks](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/46007794/1bbb41d8-6bbb-4963-860f-890e64b1d2b6.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: Sunset and Day Sailing Excursion with Drinks

2h 30m

10/10

17 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $138

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-guided-sunset-sailing-cruise-with-drinks.a46007794.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Electric boat Rentals in San Diego Bay. Family friendly boating](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/3193704/2bf6f95f-ea68-4699-9be3-fa9341ba2c38.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Electric boat Rentals in San Diego Bay. Family friendly boating

1h

Free cancellation available

CA $138

includes taxes & fees

per traveller\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/small-group-kayak-fishing-experience-in-san-diego.a3193704.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![2.5-Hour Small-Group Catamaran Sail with Drinks](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/5126373/86c72007-c6b5-468c-9ce6-b537ef161435.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### 2.5-Hour Small-Group Catamaran Sail with Drinks

2h 30m

9.8/10

67 Viator reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $162

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/sunset-sails-catamaran-in-san-diego-2-5-hours-small-groups.a5126373.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego: Whale and Dolphin Watching Speedboat Tour](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49249911/ef0619dc-5598-4f75-a204-7e8a4fd49d37.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego: Whale and Dolphin Watching Speedboat Tour

3h

Free cancellation available

CA $256

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-whale-and-dolphin-watching-speedboat-tour.a49249911.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![Solana Beach: Private Surf Lesson with Board and Wetsuit](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/48257123/c1d56d7c-fa9d-409d-b31f-1cbc5d14a571.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### Solana Beach: Private Surf Lesson with Board and Wetsuit

2h

10/10

12 GetYourGuide reviews

Free cancellation available

CA $164

includes taxes & fees

per adult

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/solana-beach-private-surf-lesson-with-board-and-wetsuit.a48257123.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

![San Diego Ocean Safari: 6-Hour Snorkel Adventure!](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/49250934/78a35451-727e-4ae4-b8b9-e19a33740577.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)

### San Diego Ocean Safari: 6-Hour Snorkel Adventure!

Free cancellation available

CA $750

includes taxes & fees

per adult\*

\*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults

[](https://www.expedia.ca/things-to-do/san-diego-ocean-safari-full-day-snorkel-adventure.a49250934.activity-details?&rid=6230106&location=Desert+Garden&swp=off)

### Popular places to visit

![Balboa Park which includes a pond](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/507458/5c140d77-7130-49d1-ab3d-705937c3610a.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Balboa Park

Culture and nature converge in this diverse park located in the heart of the city.

[](https://expedia.ca/Balboa-Park-San-Diego.d507458.Vacation-Attraction)

![San Diego Natural History Museum which includes interior views](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230098/c421d97d-ea15-4797-a9b9-5a5f5d32e6cb.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### San Diego Natural History Museum

From ancient artifacts to rare gemstones to stunning artwork, learn about the natural world, past and present, in Balboa Park’s exceptional museum.

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Natural-History-Museum-San-Diego.d6230098.Vacation-Attraction)

![Reuben H. Fleet Science Center which includes interior views as well as a small group of people](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6128046/998ac0ec-5fce-47ad-b0a2-4c2a97d9f7cb.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Fleet Science Center

Discover science through exhibits that will delight the entire family. Watch an IMAX film at San Diego’s museum and planetarium.

[](https://expedia.ca/Fleet-Science-Center-San-Diego.d6128046.Vacation-Attraction)

![Spanish Village Art Center](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6128054/90fb407a-b444-4a14-9b34-b3e4ca5471a0.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Spanish Village Art Center

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Spanish Village Art Center during your trip to San Diego. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums. 

[](https://expedia.ca/Spanish-Village-Art-Center-San-Diego.d6128054.Vacation-Attraction)

![San Diego Model Railroad Museum](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6230093/acb8c98e-16b2-4820-9c51-512e0fb2c534.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### San Diego Model Railroad Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at San Diego Model Railroad Museum in San Diego. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its acclaimed theater scene. 

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Model-Railroad-Museum-San-Diego.d6230093.Vacation-Attraction)

![Casa de Balboa, palm trees, and sky reflected in the lily pond at balboa park, san diego, california](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/553248621555611922/a1300420-b21e-470b-883e-599d3d6d9e6c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=900&h=506&q=mediumHigh)

#### Casa de Balboa

You can learn about the history of San Diego when you stop by Casa de Balboa. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums. 

[](https://expedia.ca/Casa-De-Balboa-San-Diego.d553248621555611922.Vacation-Attraction)

---

## Best Lodging Options Near Desert Garden

## Check availability on hotels close to Desert Garden

[Tonight

](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.Package&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6230106&startDate=2026-02-22&endDate=2026-02-23)[Feb 22 - Feb 23](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.Package&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6230106&startDate=2026-02-22&endDate=2026-02-23)

[Tomorrow night

](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.Package&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6230106&startDate=2026-02-23&endDate=2026-02-24)[Feb 23 - Feb 24](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.Package&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6230106&startDate=2026-02-23&endDate=2026-02-24)

[Next weekend

](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.Package&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6230106&startDate=27%2F02%2F2026&endDate=01%2F03%2F2026)[Feb 27 - Mar 1](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.CheckPrices.Package&adults=2&openPlayBack=true&regionId=6230106&startDate=27%2F02%2F2026&endDate=01%2F03%2F2026)

![The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/180000/170400/170338/6fe441dd_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

1617 1st Avenue San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Four-Points-By-Sheraton-San-Diego-Downtown-Little-Italy.h170338.Hotel-Information)

![Hard Rock Hotel San Diego](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1740000/1731600/1731557/fbbdfc57_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Hard Rock Hotel San Diego

207 5th Ave San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Hard-Rock-Hotel-San-Diego.h1731557.Hotel-Information)

![The Sofia Hotel](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/2000000/1580000/1573900/1573807/ba6cea84_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

The Sofia Hotel

150 W Broadway San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-The-Sofia-Hotel.h1573807.Hotel-Information)

![Wyndham San Diego Bayside](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/20000/11200/11177/c44ff51d_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Wyndham San Diego Bayside

1355 N Harbor Drive San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Wyndham-San-Diego-Bayside.h11177.Hotel-Information)

![Lafayette Hotel & Club](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/39000000/38080000/38077800/38077738/91a184a3_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Lafayette Hotel & Club

2223 El Cajon Blvd San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Lafayette-Hotel.h38077738.Hotel-Information)

![Best Western Seven Seas](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/10000/1800/1734/w3837h2556x3y3-8b148daf_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Best Western Seven Seas

411 Hotel Circle South San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Best-Western-Seven-Seas.h1734.Hotel-Information)

![Sentral Gaslamp Quarter](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/115000000/114120000/114116400/114116366/b82a5191_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Sentral Gaslamp Quarter

502 10th Avenue San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Sentral-Gaslamp-Quarter.h114116366.Hotel-Information)

![Ash&9th](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/119000000/118540000/118535800/118535712/f7beb624_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

Ash&9th

833 Ash Street San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-Ash9th.h118535712.Hotel-Information)

![The Bristol Hotel San Diego](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/1000000/30000/23900/23816/243b93bc_y.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=340&ch=150)

### 

The Bristol Hotel San Diego

1055 1st Ave San Diego CA

[](https://expedia.ca/San-Diego-Hotels-The-Bristol-Hotel-San-Diego.h23816.Hotel-Information)

[See all 7,575 properties in Desert Garden](https://expedia.ca/Hotel-Search?rfrrid=TG.LP.Hotels.Package&regionId=6230106)

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

![](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2026/02/06/expedia-sale-2026-desktop-us-ca.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1400&h=600&q=mediumHigh)

## 

The Annual Vacation Sale 

Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save. 

[Book now](https://expedia.ca/deals?rfrr=DX_POI_Spring_PROMO_6230106)