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Private Shuttled Coastal Gems Tour — San Diego Beaches, Cliffs & Wildlife - San Diego

Private Shuttled Coastal Gems Tour — San Diego Beaches, Cliffs & Wildlife

San Diegomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Should be in moderate physical shape: able to stand, walk short distances over uneven terrain and climb stairs.

Overview

Cruise San Diego’s iconic coastline with a private guide who knows the best cliff viewpoints, tide pools and seaside neighborhoods. This four-hour, customizable shuttle tour blends wildlife watching with local history and practical tips for exploring the 70-mile coastline.

Private Shuttled Coastal Gems Tour — San Diego Beaches, Cliffs & Wildlife

Bus Tour
Wildlife
Sightseeing Tour

You start the morning with salt in the air and palms bending lazily above the windshield as your private guide pulls away from Little Italy. Julie Kremen—an award-winning local—sets the pace: conversational, observant, and ready to recalibrate the route to match whatever you want to see. The first stop is La Jolla’s sun-bleached cliffs, where ocean swells have been carving sandstone into sea caves for millennia and the tide pools dare you to crouch low and peer into miniature worlds of anemones and hermit crabs.

Adventure Photos

Private Shuttled Coastal Gems Tour — San Diego Beaches, Cliffs & Wildlife photo 1

Adventure Tips

Wear grippy shoes

There’s about a mile of walking with slippery stairs and uneven trails—closed-toe shoes with good tread make short scrambles safer and more comfortable.

Bring a child car seat if needed

California law requires a proper car seat or booster for children under eight; the guide cannot provide one.

Dress in layers

Coastal microclimates shift quickly—sunny on the beach, windy on the cliffs—so bring a light jacket.

Hydrate and protect from sun

Bottled water is provided, but carry sunscreen and a brimmed hat for extended photo stops.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • California sea lions
  • Brown pelicans

History

The area was seasonally occupied by the Kumeyaay and later developed during the 19th century into a string of resort and naval communities; Coronado’s Hotel del opened in 1888 and helped popularize the coast.

Conservation

Tide pools and roped-off haul-outs protect sensitive intertidal species and resting sea lions—stay behind barriers and follow your guide’s instructions to reduce disturbance.

Adventure Hotspots in San Diego

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sturdy walking shoes

Essential

Protects ankles and provides grip on uneven, sometimes slippery stairs and trails.

Sun protection (sunscreen & hat)

Essential

Prevents sunburn during exposed beach and cliff stops.

summer specific

Light windbreaker or fleece

Essential

Blocks chilly ocean breezes and layers easily when the sun comes out.

spring specific

Phone or camera with extra battery

You'll want to capture cliff views, sea lions and the Coronado skyline during stops.