Is San Diego safe? (2025)
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Is San Diego safe?
Yes, San Diego is relatively safe. San Diego was ranked the safest among the 20 largest U.S. cities and has a much lower crime rate than Los Angeles and San Francisco.
It boasts perfect year-round weather, some of the best surfing beaches, and a relaxed attitude. But San Diego is not crime-free.
So, what could be wrong?
Downtown San Diego has a fair share of crime. While areas like East Village, Gaslamp Quarter, and Marina attract many tourists, they have a serious homeless problem, which means you should always watch your back, especially when it’s dark.
North San Diego is generally regarded as less safe. Some parts of the city like Logan Heights grapple with a gang problem, although as a tourist, you aren’t likely to be directly affected by it.
I’ve visited San Diego multiple times and felt safer than in several other cities in the United States. But I also stayed alert and knew my way around the city. Your perception of safety in San Diego could be different depending on your knowledge of the area and your individual experience.
But don’t worry, in this article, I will share my expertise with you and tell you how you can have a safe and fun vacation in America’s Finest City.
What parts of San Diego to avoid?
While San Diego is generally safe for visitors, some parts of the city have violent crime and gang activity. San Ysidro and areas around the U.S-Mexico border are not safe and several neighborhoods like Lemon Grove, Kearny Mesa, and Hillcrest have relatively high crime. Lincoln Park has been long affected by gang violence, similar to Encanto and Emerald Hills.
If you want to visit a specific part of San Diego, you should research it first, because even popular neighborhoods like Midway District and the Marina District in downtown San Diego grapple with higher-than-average crime.
Dangerous neighborhoods of San Diego
When visiting San Diego, be extra careful in East Village, which has a lot of homeless people drug use, and more crime than any other area of San Diego. Avoid Logan Heights, which has high gang activity, and skip North Park at night, as it has some crime too. Skip Mission Valley East and Midway District during late hours and be cautious in Pacific Beach.
Crime in San Diego
The most common types of crime in San Diego are burglary, theft, and car break-ins. Violent crime in San Diego is not common, and often takes place in areas with a high homeless population.
As a tourist in San Diego, you are more likely to be affected by petty crime, or property crime, so you should always keep a close eye on your belongings.
However, it’s important to stay informed about recent incidents. In early 2025, an American hiker was attacked and shot near the border in the Jacumba Wilderness area.
While such events are rare and typically confined to remote border regions, you should be very careful if you plan to venture near the U.S.-Mexico border.
Is it safe to travel to San Diego right now?
Yes, it’s safe to travel to San Diego right now. Although the city has a substantial homeless population, violent crime against tourists in San Diego is rare. Unless you get yourself in a sketchy situation, you should be able to enjoy a safer vacation.
Is San Diego safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, San Diego is safer than most American cities for solo female travelers. However, you should take reasonable precautions and be careful in bars and restaurants with a lot of people.
Never leave your food and drinks unattended, don’t divulge your travel plans and personal information to strangers, and avoid being engrossed in your cell phone, which could make you more vulnerable to crime.
San Diego safety tips:
1. Always watch your surroundings
Whether you are going for a night out in San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, taking a boat cruise, or going for a hike at Torrey Pines, always be aware of who’s around you.
2. Avoid walking at night
Stick to well-lit, busy areas if you need to walk after dark, or better yet, take an Uber back to your hotel. To give you an idea, while the Gaslamp Quarter is perfectly fine during the day, it can get sketchy after hours.
Other parts of San Diego that are perfectly safe during the day can be less safe at night, so you shouldn’t take any unnecessary risks.
3. Keep a close eye on your belongings
Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially at busy places like bars, restaurants, beaches, and popular landmarks. San Diego doesn’t have a high rate of pickpocketing, but you don’t want to allow anybody to steal your valuables.
4. Stay clear of homeless encampments
Homelessness has been a problem in San Diego for years, and while the city has taken steps to resolve it, the city still has a large number of unhoused people.
For safety reasons, it’s better to stay away from areas where homeless people put up their tents and RV’s.
While some people end up in this situation because of the extremely high cost of housing in San Diego, some have mental issues or drug problems and could pose a threat to someone who unknowingly walks into the area.
5. Safe only in designated areas
San Diego is a surfer’s paradise with many beaches where you can ride a wave. However, some beaches in San Diego like Black’s Beach is not safe for swimming because of powerful currents and strong rip tides.
Before you get in the water, always make sure it’s safe to swim. Many San Diego beaches have posted signs, but if you don’t see them, you can ask a lifeguard on duty, or just do a quick search online.
6. Use sunscreen
Plan to spend time outside?
Use sunscreen because the sun in San Diego can be strong. The city gets 266 sunny days per year, on average, so whether you are out and about in the city, hitting the trail, or enjoying the beach, you should use sunscreen.
7. Monitor water quality
San Diego experienced a problem with water contamination in the past, when some beaches registered a high bacteria level due to contamination from Tijuana Slough National Wildlife Refuge, right across the border.
Whether you plan to swim or surf, it’s a good idea to check water quality before getting in the water.
8. Be careful on public transport
Downtown San Diego is the most walkable part of the city, but if you need to get around and visit other parts of the area, you can take the San Diego Trolley or bus.
Always be vigilant on public transport, and keep a close eye on your bags, suitcases, and other belongings, because public transport often attracts pickpockets and scammers.
9. Avoid sketchy areas of San Diego
East Village, City Heights, and Logan Heights should be avoided, especially after dark. If you ever feel like the part of town you are in isn’t safe, take an Uber to get out of there quickly.
Exercise increased caution in San Ysidro and around the border. If you want to visit Tijuana, it’s best to do it with a guided tour to eliminate safety concerns.
✅ Check: Best Tijuana tours from San Diego
10. Always lock your car
If you rent a car in San Diego, always lock your doors, especially in tourist-heavy areas like the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and popular surfing beaches and hiking areas, where car break-ins tend to happen.
Avoid leaving items in plain sight, as they can attract criminals. Put your bags and luggage in a trunk, so there’s nothing on the front seat.
11. Trust your instincts
If something feels off, it probably is. Watch out for things that seem too good to be true, overly friendly people, and questionable offers. When your gut tells you that something doesn’t feel right, you should walk away.
12. Get a travel insurance for your trip
Getting travel insurance for your trip to San Diego is one of the smartest things you can do to enjoy a safe and fun trip.
SafetyWing is my favorite travel insurance company that offers different plans that will cover in case of hospital visits, canceled flights, lost or stolen belongings, and many other things.
Their plans start at $30, a reasonably good deal, so I highly recommend you check them out for your next trip.
San Diego safe neighborhoods
Now after we covered dangerous areas of San Diego, let’s switch gears and talk about safe neighborhoods. Please note that while these neighborhoods are statistically safer, it doesn’t mean that crime doesn’t happen, only that you are less likely to become a victim of crime.
1. La Jolla
La Jolla, San Diego, is an affluent coastal neighborhood about 25 minutes northwest of San Diego. It’s known for its stunning cliffs, sandy beaches, and upscale charm.
Often called “The Jewel of San Diego,” it’s home to the famous La Jolla Cove – a scenic, small beach with clear waters where you can kayak in La Jolla Cave and watch cheeky sea lions. La Jolla Shores Park is one of the best places to swim in San Diego.
2. Scripps Ranch
Scripps Ranch is a suburb of San Diego known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to the outdoors. The area features rolling hills and eucalyptus groves. Although it’s not the most popular area with tourists, it has several highlights, including Lake Miramar, Scripps Ranch Theatre, and Scripps Ranch Marketplace.
3. Torrey Pines
If you love the outdoors, don’t forget to stop at Torrey Pines, one of the most scenic areas of San Diego where most people come to explore trails and get away from the city.
This stunning coastal area is known for its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and rare Torrey pine trees. It’s home to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, Torrey Pines Golf Course, and Torrey Pines State Beach.
4. Del Mar
Del Mar is a beach town in the greater San Diego area just north of Torrey Pines State Beach. I recommend renting a car, to explore this beach town that offers a combination of history, outdoors, and relaxed vibes. It’s a hiker’s paradise with many trails and spectacular views in every direction. After you enjoy the outdoors, go for lunch at the Del Mar Village.
5. Coronado Island
Located across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Island is a charming coastal destination known for its pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and relaxed vibe. Connected to San Diego by the Coronado Bridge, it has a small-town feel and feels like a world away from downtown San Diego.
It’s also home to the famous Hotel Coronado, and Coronado Beach, a wide, golden sand beach often ranked among the best in the U.S.
You can easily spend an entire day on Coronado Island, as it offers plenty activities, from paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing in Glorietta Bay to biking along the Bayshore Bikeway and dining along Orange Avenue.
Safe things to do in San Diego for tourists
Here’s a quick rundown of the safest things to do in San Diego, which you should try on your trip.
1. Spot whales off San Diego’s coast
San Diego offers incredible whale-watching opportunities during the migration seasons of gray whales (December – April) and blue whales (May – November).
This popular whale watching tour offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close, along with dolphins, sea lions, and other marine life along the spectacular San Diego coast.
Best whale watching tours of San Diego
2. Book a fun sail tour with a brunch
There’s no better way to enjoy the San Diego skyline than from a Bottomless Mimosas Brunch Cruise with delicious food and drinks.
This popular sailing tour offers a luxurious brunch on the water with the San Diego Harbor Cruise, featuring bottomless mimosas, gourmet cuisine, and stunning views of the city skyline, and Coronado Bridge.
Best sailing tours in San Diego
3. Explore the city with Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
While parts of San Diego are not ideal for walking because of homeless camps and sketchy characters, taking a hop-on-hop-off trolley tour is a great option, because it will transport you from one place to another without having to walk through areas where you might feel unsafe.
This fun and informative tour is highly rated by fellow travelers. It stops at top attractions like Old Town, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and Coronado. It also gives you the flexibility to hop off and explore as you please.
Best Hop On Hop Off Tour in San Diego
4. Check out Old Town San Diego
Don’t forget to visit Old Town San Diego, the birthplace of California that was the site of the first permanent Spanish settlement in what is now California.
Here you can check out historic adobe buildings, visit museums, browse local shops, and savor authentic Mexican food at Café Coyote and Old Town Mexican Café, a popular staple of the San Diego food scene. And don’t miss the vibrant live mariachi performances!
Best Old Town Tours of San Diego
✅ Book this popular Gaslamp Food and Drink Tour
5. Enjoy local gastronomy on San Diego Walking Food Tour
Discover San Diego’s diverse and delicious food scene on a Secret Food Tour. Led by local experts, this walking tour takes you to hidden culinary gems, from authentic taco spots to gourmet seafood and craft beer tastings, offering a true taste of the city’s vibrant flavors.
Best San Diego Food Tours
6. Visit the USS Midway Museum
Skip the line and explore the USS Midway Museum, a retired aircraft carrier turned immersive museum. Walk through the flight deck, explore restored aircraft, and engage with interactive exhibits and self-guided audio tours narrated by former sailors, giving you a firsthand look at naval aviation history.
7. Book a guided tour to Tijuana from San Diego
Tijuana gets plenty of bad rep, but doesn’t stop thousands of travelers from crossing the border.
If you want to see the largest city in Baja California, but don’t feel confident doing it alone, book a guided Tijuana food tour from San Diego and experience Baja’s vibrant cuisine.
Tijuana has some of the best street food in Mexico, which you will try during your excursion, local markets, and visit the famous Avenida Revolución, the main thoroughfare of Tijuana.
Best Tijuana Food Tours From San Diego
8. Visit Little Italy
San Diego is home to the largest “Little Italy” in the United States, which stretches 48 blocks. This popular neighborhood is filled with charming piazzas, boutique shops, and some of the best Italian food in the city.
Here you can enjoy authentic pasta, espresso, and gelato, or visit the famous Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and artisan goods.
Don’t have time planning your outing and looking for the best spot to visit?
This popular tour of Little Italy will do the work for you!
Best Little Italy Tours in San Diego
9. Check out Cabrillo National Monument
Perched at the tip of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument offers spectacular ocean views, tide pools, and a glimpse into history. Visit the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, learn about Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo’s voyage, and take in breathtaking scenery overlooking the Pacific and San Diego Bay.
10. Hike at Torrey Pines
After you explored the city and took a deep dive in the local culinary scene, it’s time to check out the San Diego outddor scenery.
One of the my favorite places for hiking in San Diego is Torrey Pines, a coastal gem that offers breathtaking ocean views, scenic hiking trails. Located just north of La Jolla, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve boasts rugged sandstone cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and picturesque trails perfect to burn off some calories after enjoying all the food.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike, incredible backdrop for your photos, or simply want to experience California’s coastal beauty, Torrey Pines should be on your San Diego itinerary.
✅ Don’t forget to rent a car for your trip to Torrey Pines!
Where to stay in San Diego:
- Pendry San Diego (Downtown) – Pendry San Diego is a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. It has upscale accommodations, six unique dining and bar experiences, a rooftop pool, and a full-service spa. It’s a few steps from top restaurants, entertainment, and the city’s waterfront.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT PENDRY SAN DIEGO
- Beach Village at Del (Coronado) – A gorgeous beachfront stay, Beach Village is located on Coronado Island and offers a perfect escape from the city. It has five restaurants, private parking, a huge swimming pool, and a spa.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT VILLAGE AT DEL
- Holiday Inn Express (Downtown) – Perfect for budget travelers, Holiday Inn Express is a simple yet nice and quiet stay not far from Gaslamp Quarter. The property has a great breakfast, on-site parking, and a fitness center.
✅ CHECK PRICES AND AVAILABILITY AT HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
Is San Diego safe? FAQ’s
Is it safe to walk in San Diego at night?
While San Diego is safe, some parts of the city are not safe to walk around at night. East Village, Mission District, and Cortez Hill are not very safe for walking around at night.
Is San Diego safer than Los Angeles?
San Diego is much safer than Los Angeles. According to Numbeo’s February 2025 data, San Diego has a Crime Index of 39.83 and a Safety Scale of 60.17, while Los Angeles has a higher Crime Index of 53.75 and a lower Safety Scale of 46.25.
What is the safest part of San Diego?
The safest areas of San Diego are La Jolla, Coronado, and Scripps Ranch. These areas have low crime and offer a good mix of activities, from outdoors to culture and food.
Does San Diego have a homeless problem?
Yes, downtown neighborhoods like East Village, Gaslamp Quarter, and Horton Plaza have homeless people, which can impact your safety. Always be cautious in downtown San Diego, especially at night.
Is San Diego safe at night?
Yes, San Diego is safe at night, but you should always be aware of your surroundings, especially downtown, where some neighborhoods have high crime.
Is San Diego safe for tourists?
Yes, San Diego is one of the safest metro areas in the United States, and your chances of becoming a victim of a crime here are much lower than in many big cities across America.
Is San Diego safe from earthquakes?
Located in Southern California, San Diego is part of a seismically active region, so it’s not entirely “safe” from earthquakes. However, compared to places like Los Angeles or San Francisco, San Diego has a lower risk of major earthquakes.
The Rose Canyon Fault runs through downtown San Diego, and larger faults like the San Andreas Fault (which poses a greater risk) are farther away but capable of causing strong shaking.
San Diego safety: Final word
Although San Diego has some areas with higher crime rates, most crimes in this city are property-related rather than violent. San Diego remains safer than many other large U.S. cities, and as long as you exercise caution and use basic smarts, you should be able to avoid trouble. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid unfamiliar areas, if you are alone.
I hope this article provided enough helpful information for your trip to San Diego, but if you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
