Chula Vista's Delightful Family Adventure: 5 Days of Fun!
Discover endless family fun in Chula Vista, where adventures await!
19 July 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Chula Vista, located in California, is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its beautiful beaches, diverse recreational activities, and enchanting attractions, there is something to suit every family member's taste. Spend quality time at the famous Aquatica San Diego water park, explore the Living Coast Discovery Center, or enjoy thrilling rides at the Ghost Rider roller coaster in Knott's Berry Farm – making unforgettable memories is guaranteed in Chula Vista.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information

- Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Broken Yolk Café, known for its colossal omelettes that will satisfy even the hungriest of bears.
- Enjoy an invigorating hike at Mount San Miguel Park, where the breathtaking views will make your whole family feel like nature enthusiasts extraordinaire.
- Cool off at Aquatica San Diego, a water park where daredevils can plunge down thrilling slides while others can relax in lazy rivers, making it a perfect spot for families with different vibes.
- Treat yourselves to a scrumptious dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, where the menu offers a veritable smorgasbord of tantalizing options that cater to every taste bud under the sun.
- Wrap up the day with a friendly competition at Chula Vista Golf Course Mini Golf, a whimsical course where adults can rediscover their childish glee while the little ones chase their dreams of becoming mini golf champions.
- Get a blast from the past with a visit to the Chula Vista Heritage Museum, a hidden gem that tells captivating stories of the city's roots through captivating exhibits.
- Embark on a delightful kayak adventure at Sweetwater Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, where you might spot magnificent birds & curious critters while gliding through serene waters.
- Devour a delectable lunch at Mangia Italiano, a local joint that will transport you straight to the streets of Italy with their mouthwatering pizza and pasta creations.
- Saddle up for an exciting horseback ride at Otay Valley Regional Park, where you can channel your inner cowboy while exploring picturesque trails and vibrant flora.
- Soothe your senses with a dinner at El Agave, a charming Mexican restaurant boasting an extensive tequila selection and flavors that will ignite a fiesta in your mouth.
- Start the day with a scrumptious breakfast at Scrumptious Pancake House, where stacks of fluffy pancakes drenched in maple syrup will have you doing a happy breakfast dance.
- Unleash your inner adrenaline junkie at Sky Zone, an indoor trampoline park where gravity-defying jumps and laughter reign supreme.
- Fuel up with a quick yet satisfying lunch at In-N-Out Burger, a California classic renowned for its mouthwatering burgers and secret sauce.
- Conquer the soaring heights of the mountain bike trails at Mt. San Miguel Park, where heart-pumping thrills and stunning vistas collide.
- Conclude the day with a feast fit for a champ at Chopsticks Inn, a delightful Chinese restaurant offering an array of tantalizing dishes to suit every palate.
- Ignite your taste buds with an unforgettable brunch at Linda's Mexican Food, where spicy chilaquiles and fluffy breakfast burritos reign supreme.
- Embrace the coastal beauty of Chula Vista Bayfront Park, a serene spot perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and absorbing the spectacular views of the bay.
- Enjoy a delightful seafood lunch at Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, where ocean-fresh catches and a nautical ambiance whisk you away to seaside bliss.
- Take a family bike ride along the picturesque Bayshore Bikeway, soaking in the cool ocean breeze while admiring the lively marinas and stunning vistas.
- Treat yourselves to a sumptuous dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, because when in Chula Vista, why limit yourself to just one experience of their mouthwatering delights?
- Start the day with a final breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House, an institution known for their fluffy pancakes and colossal omelettes that will keep you dreaming of Chula Vista mornings.
- Venture down to Living Coast Discovery Center, an enchanting wildlife sanctuary where you can engage with beautiful coastal creatures up close and personal.
- Bid Chula Vista adieu with a delightful lunch at Cafe La Maze, a classic American diner that serves up mouthwatering steak and succulent seafood dishes to leave you wanting more.
- Wander the scenic trails of Otay Valley Regional Park one last time, taking in the vibrant beauty of the outdoors and soaking up the tranquility.
- As the sun sets on your Chula Vista adventure, carry the memories and the chipper vibe of this vibrant city with you, until the time comes for your return.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Chula Vista by plane is to fly into San Diego International Airport and then take a taxi or drive about 15 miles south on I-5 to reach Chula Vista.
Car
Driving to Chula Vista is a convenient option, as it is located near two major highways: I-5 and I-805. From north of Chula Vista, take I-5 south until you reach the desired exit. From the east, take I-8 west to I-5 south. From the south, take I-5 north to the desired exit.
Train
Unfortunately, there is no train station in Chula Vista. The closest Amtrak station is in San Diego, about 15 miles north, and from there you would need to take a taxi or drive to Chula Vista.
Boat
Unfortunately, there are no boat options to get to Chula Vista. The closest marina is in San Diego, about 15 miles north of Chula Vista. You would need to arrange for ground transportation to reach Chula Vista from there.
Bus
Taking a Greyhound bus is a budget-friendly way to get to Chula Vista. The closest bus station is in downtown San Diego, about 15 miles north of Chula Vista. From there you would need to take a taxi or bus to reach Chula Vista.