San Diego is the birthplace of California. Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, San Diego was the first West Coast site visited by Europeans. Juan Cabrillo claimed the area for Spain in 1542. The first European settlements were Presidio and Mission. The US Grant hotel is a San Diego landmark. It was built by Ulysses Grant Jr. to honor his father. The hotel is known for elegance and luxury. It features commissioned French and Native American artwork and the best dining in San Diego.

San Diego is California's second largest city and the eighth largest city in the United States. The city is also adjacent to the Mexican border. San Diego is the seat of San Diego County, a biotechnology center and a major operation center for the US Navy. The city is centered on San Diego Bay which flows into the Pacific Ocean. The bay is a natural harbor, and one of three in California.

San Diego is one of five cities that sit on the bay. The others are Chula Vista, Coronado, Imperial Beach and Natural City. The San Diego–Coronado Bridge spans the bay and connects San Diego to Coronado. The San Diego Bay shoreline features nature and water based attractions and activities. Hotels on the bay provide convenient accommodations for visitors who want to enjoy the attractions of San Diego Bay.

Sports fans know San Diego as the home of the San Diego Padres baseball team, and the San Diego Chargers football team. Other attractions in San Diego include the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Balboa Park, award winning beaches and golf courses, as well as San Diego Bay.