Maritime Museum of San Diego Tours

Maritime Museum of San Diego showing a bay or harbor
Maritime Museum of San Diego featuring a bay or harbor, heritage elements and a city
Maritime Museum of San Diego featuring interior views
Maritime Museum of San Diego showing a bay or harbor
Maritime Museum of San Diego featuring interior views


This impressivecollection of nine marine vessels includes sailing boats, ferries, submarinesand yachts.

Avisit to the Maritime Museum of San Diego presents a fascinating glimpse intolife on the high seas. Located on the piers at the North Embarcadero indowntown San Diego, this is one of the world’s largest and finest collectionsof restored vessels. More than a century of seafaring craft is on display.

The Star of India, amassive sailing ship, is the centerpiece of the museum and iconic to SanDiego’s waterfront. It’s sure to set your imagination in motion, calling up thelives of the immigrants that made passage from the UK to New Zealand, or thecrews that lived aboard for months at a time during its life as a fishingvessel. On board, there’s a play area where kids can get dressed in costumesand play sailing games. The Star of India is the oldest active ship in theworld, sailing into the harbor once a year — a real sight to behold.

For a revealingglimpse into California’s past don’t miss The Berkeley, a passenger ferry thatserved 60 years transporting passengers across San Francisco Bay. You can standwhere Russell Crowe stood in the 2003 Hollywood film Master and Commander: TheFar Side of the World aboard the HMS Surprise, an impressive replica of a navyfrigate. Visitors are also able to explore the inner-workings of the B-39, agenuine Soviet Attack Submarine that was tasked with tracking the movements ofU.S. warships. And for a true sense of majesty, take in The Californian, areplica of the wooden tall ship by the same name.

If you fancy gettingout on the water, the museum offers a 45-minute narrated cruise on San DiegoBay aboard a fully-restored 1914 Pilot boat, which offers great views backtowards the city. For a more in-depthunderstanding of the maritime history of San Diego, spend some time in themuseum’s five permanent exhibitions. The displays explain the ages of sail andsteam and the process of charting and harvesting the sea. The area’s navalhistory is also explored. Threeor four hours is enough time to see everything in the museum, and you can avoidthe stress of finding parking on the busy waterfront by catching the trolley,San Diego's light rail system.

Plan a trip to see Maritime Museum of San Diego

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hyatt Vacation Club at The Welk, San Diego Area
Coronado Beach Resort
Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Browse tours and tickets to explore Maritime Museum of San Diego

Tours & day trips

See all 201 activities

History & culture

See all 75 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 59 activities

Cruises & boat tours

See all 52 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 26 activities

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Maritime Museum of San Diego

Wyndham San Diego Bayside

Wyndham San Diego Bayside

4 out of 5
1355 N Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA
Wyndham San Diego Bayside
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection

3 out of 5
1617 1st Avenue, San Diego, CA
The DEXTRO Little Italy, BW Premier Collection
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown

4 out of 5
601 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA
Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego

4 out of 5
1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA
Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego
The Little Italy Hotel Downtown San Diego

The Little Italy Hotel Downtown San Diego

4 out of 5
1646 Front St, San Diego, CA
The Little Italy Hotel Downtown San Diego
Hampton Inn San Diego-Downtown

Hampton Inn San Diego-Downtown

2.5 out of 5
San Diego
Hampton Inn San Diego-Downtown
Palihotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Palihotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

4 out of 5
830 Sixth Avenue, San Diego, CA
Palihotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott

4 out of 5
500 W Broadway, San Diego, CA
The Guild Hotel, San Diego, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel by Marriott
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside

Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside

3.5 out of 5
2137 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA
Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Downtown/Bayside
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.

Things to do near Maritime Museum of San Diego

At the Maritime Museum of San Diego, you can explore numerous attractions, including the captivating seahorses exhibit and enjoy breathtaking sunsets by the ocean. Take a short walk to wander through the museum's historic vessels and maritime exhibits, immersing yourself in the rich nautical heritage of the area. Don't miss out on local theater performances nearby to complete your visit!

Food and drinks

For a local brewery experience, visit Bay City Brewing Co., located 3 miles away, offering a romantic atmosphere. If wine is more your style, Carruth Cellars Winery, 19 miles away, boasts an entertaining vibe perfect for a delightful evening.

Shopping

At the Maritime Museum of San Diego, enjoy shopping at Fashion Valley Mall, just 3 miles away, featuring a vibrant mix of stores. Don't miss the Ocean Beach Farmers Market, 5 miles away, perfect for local goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Taylor Guitars, 13 miles away.

Recreation

Petco Park, located 1 mile from the Maritime Museum, offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. For a tranquil outdoor experience, visit Torrey Pines Golf Course, 13 miles away, surrounded by stunning views. The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 7 miles away, provides luxurious wellness facilities for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

For an exhilarating experience, visit Sky Zone San Diego Indoor Trampoline Park, located 14 miles from the Maritime Museum. Enjoy bouncing and flipping in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere. For a scenic adventure, hike Iron Mountain, 18 miles away, where breathtaking views and outdoor beauty await in a thrilling natural setting.

Nightlife

Enjoy a captivating evening at the San Diego Civic Theatre, just 0.7 miles away, for a romantic show. For family fun, ride the Balboa Park Carousel, 2 miles away, or unleash your competitive spirit at Atlantis Laser Tag, 8 miles away, for an adventurous night out.

Find the best attractions near Maritime Museum of San Diego

If you're planning a visit to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, you'll find a variety of attractions nearby that cater to culture, outdoor activities, and family experiences. Explore the picturesque beaches, stroll through Balboa Park, or visit the Space Museum and Seaport Village. With so many engaging options, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your vacation in San Diego.

  • San Diego Convention Center: Located just a mile from the Maritime Museum, this modern venue hosts a variety of events, from conventions to expos. Its stunning architecture and spacious halls create a vibrant business atmosphere, perfect for networking and collaboration.
  • Mission Bay: About 5 miles away, Mission Bay offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. With sandy beaches, lush parks, and water activities, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy the sun, go for a swim, or relax by the shore.
  • Balboa Park: Just 2 miles from the museum, Balboa Park is a cultural oasis filled with gardens, museums, and art galleries. Stroll through its beautiful landscapes and immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of San Diego.

Best time to go to Maritime Museum of San Diego

Visitor numbers around Maritime Museum of San Diego is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Maritime Museum of San Diego can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Maritime Museum of San Diego falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Maritime Museum of San Diego falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
March58.1°F (14.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
April60.6°F (15.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June66.4°F (19.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July70.5°F (21.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August72.3°F (22.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September72.0°F (22.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
November62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Maritime Museum of San Diego

To save money during your visit to the Maritime Museum of San Diego, consider exploring nearby free attractions like Mission Bay, Hotel Circle, and Coronado Beach. The best time to find affordable hotel rates is from November to January, while booking a month in advance often yields the best deals. Check Expedia for last-minute offers and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays, helping you maximize your travel budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Maritime Museum of San Diego are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Maritime Museum of San Diego is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay near the Maritime Museum of San Diego with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.