Chula Vista

About 7 miles from downtown San Diego in one direction and the Mexican border in the other, Chula Vista is quickly developing its own strong identity as a tourist destination. There are the more obvious, historical draws—The Living Coast Discovery Center’s aquarium and zoo on the Chula Vista waterfront (adjacent to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge) is a fun, affordable way to explore the local habitat and wildlife, and pop megastar concerts at Mattress Firm Amphitheatre (formerly Cricket Wireless Amphitheater) draw thousands. And then there's one of the city's more recent, big-ticket additions: Sesame Place San Diego, a Sesame Street–themed park that feature rides, live shows, and an interactive musical play area, plus a 500,000-gallon wave pool and multiple little-kid-friendly water adventures.

Where to Eat in Chula Vista

Another reason to explore Chula Vista is the food, which is known to be some the most authentic Mexican fare you’ll find north of the border. For the ultimate in stateside Tijuana-style street food, head to the no-frills Tacos El Gordo. Two other local favorites for simple, but supremely authentic Mexican food are Karina’s Mexican Seafood and Lolita’s Taco Shop (don’t miss Lolita’s California Burrito—carne asada, french fries, cheddar cheese, and sour cream rolled up in a flour tortilla).

Nothing pairs with Mexican food quite like a cold beer, and Chula Vista is an emerging hotspot for urban brewing. Check out Chula Vista Brewery, 3 Punk Ales Brewing Co., and Brewjeria Taproom & Kitchen, just a few places to sample the city's beer scene. 

Outdoor Activities in Chula Vista

There’s also a subtler side to Chula Vista, one that begins to reveal a diverse and dynamic town that embraces its natural resources, cultural influences, and forward-thinking spirit. With its 560 acres of parkland, which stretches from the San Diego Bay (grab your picnic basket and head to J Street Marina Bayside Park) to the shores of Lower Otay Lake in the rural east, Chula Vista is an ideal spot for all types of outdoorsy excursions. Cyclists and walkers can also tap into the scenic Bayshore Bikeway, a waterfront route that traces the bay and connects the city to greater San Diego. The crown jewel of the city’s park system, dubbed by locals the Emerald Necklace, is the 200-acre Otay Valley Regional Park, which includes eight miles of hiking trails and seven ponds. An exploration of this open-space oasis illustrates why the Spanish translation of Chula Vista is “beautiful view.”

More Things to Do in Chula Vista

A visit to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, with its 2,600-plus acres of walking trails and bayfront overlooks, makes for active day of birdwatching and photography opportunities, or just a quiet nature walk minutes from the city. Spend your morning spotting turtles, various species of grebes, and spotted sandpipers, then head over to Third Avenue Village in Chula Vista’s historic district to stroll the eclectic shops and restaurants. The shopping and dining magnet is also home to Onstage Playhouse, a popular community theatre venue—be sure to check their season lineup before your visit. 

Sports fans who are curious about what it takes to make it to the Olympic Games have a unique destination in the eastern part of the city: the 153-acre Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center, which serves aspiring competitors in both the Olympic Games and the Paralympic Games. Take a guided tour—deluxe ones include a behind-the-scenes walkthrough of training facilities and the dining hall—to see what it’s like to spend time here in pursuit of gold.

Where to Stay in Chula Vista

Front and center of the city's accommodations scene is Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center, a large bayfront resort with amenities such as a 4-acre water park, a spa, and a location that affords sweeping views of San Diego Bay. For a more boutique vibe steps from shops and eateries, El Primero Hotel delivers Art Deco charm in the middle of the downtown district. Ayres Hotel San Diego South - Chula Vista is another excellent option, while closer to the water, guests seeking a resort experience near the bay without stretching their budget can consider Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel, which sits near coastal parks and marina attractions.