Best Things to Do in San Diego if You’re Under 21

Black beach, San Diego

You might have turned 18 last year and feel like you should be allowed to go out to bars and clubs like in your country, but unfortunately, the legal drinking age in the USA is 21 (we know, it is unfair!)

This reduces the options of night activities possible for our young travelers. But, there are some alternatives.

Here is what to do in San Diego if you’re under 21.

1. Tijuana

Cancun beach

You can technically take the tram and go somewhere you can party and drink legally, but that would be in Mexico, a different country! Some Hostels and tour companies in San Diego run a weekly tour to Tijuana, during which you’ll be able to go to bars and clubs, and of course, eat delicious Mexican food.

2. Hookah Bars

Hookah bars (place where you can smoke shisha, or flavored tobacco) can be a great alternative to bars. You’ll get the dark setting and the background music, and you’ll be able to socialize with other patrons. There are quite a few options, like Fumari and Xhale Hookah Bar.

3. Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach, San Diego

Why not go for a night swim? Jump on the bus to catch some waves at Pacific Beach, or just stroll on Garnet Avenue around Mission Blvd. You’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants and a overall great atmosphere.

4. Coffee Shop And Local Bands

If you have a car, visit Lestat’s Coffee Shop. The place has a great atmosphere and decor, features music or comedy shows nightly, and is open 24/7.

5. Concerts

Some downtown’s music venues feature shows that are all ages, like House Of Blues. Check out their calendar before you get to San Diego to see if any of your favorite artists are playing!

6. Baseball

Petco Park, San Diego

The San Diego Baseball Stadium, the Petco Park, was built downtown and is just a short walk away from the shops, bars and restaurants.

If you want to visit San Diego during summer, grab some of your fellow roommates if staying in a hostel, and attend a match of one of the most popular sports in the USA.

Tickets can be quite cheap as well, so it’s a great option for a night on a budget. The food in the ballpark can be a little expensive, so eating beforehand would be a good idea, but you’ve got to try a hot-dog!

7. Bonfire

Mission Bay Park is a beautiful aquatic playground, where you can try out water activities during the day. You can bring a picnic and use the BBQ pits during the day, but at night, grab everything needed to make delicious smores and make your way to a bonfire pit, near the water

8. Belmont Park

Giant Dipper roller coaster, Belmont Park, San Diego

Looking for a thrill? Visit the amazing Belmont Park, San Diego’s beachfront amusement park. Be sure to ride the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster. There are also swimming pools, restaurants, shops and more entertainment!

9. Balboa Park

Balboa Park

Looking for some chill time? Explore the 1,200-acre Balboa Park!

10. Hostel Lounges

The most obvious choice! The lounge is always a welcoming place, and you’re likely to meet fellow under 21 hostelers happy to hang out with you! Check with the receptionist when you check-in to a hostel to see if there is any fun activity going on during your stay.

If you need more recommendations this San Diego backpacking guide will help. If you would like to be more than just a tourist view our gap year work abroad programs and apply to live and work in the USA!

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