Located in San Diego County, this coastal city has a Mediterranean climate and extensive parks. Home to the Olympic Training Center and the Living Coast Discovery Center.
Chula Vista stretches between downtown San Diego and the Mexican border, making it California's second-largest city in San Diego County. At the Living Coast Discovery Center, you can watch leopard sharks glide through crystal-clear tanks and see native eagles soar in the outdoor aviary. Paddle a kayak from the marina, catch a summer concert at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre, cool off at Sesame Place San Diego's water slides, or watch Olympic athletes train at the Elite Athlete Training Center.
Location and Transportation
Chula Vista sits seven miles south of downtown San Diego and seven miles north of the Mexican border. You can reach downtown San Diego in 15 minutes by car, making it convenient to explore the wider region. The city spans 52 square miles from San Diego Bay to the eastern hills, with most activities concentrated near the waterfront and along Third Avenue.
Parks and Natural Areas
Walk or bike through eight miles of trails at the 200-acre Otay Valley Regional Park, where seven freshwater ponds attract egrets, herons, and native fish species. At the Living Coast Discovery Center, next to the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, you'll find tanks filled with leopard sharks, bat rays, and sea turtles. The outdoor aviary houses eagles and hawks. Take a stroll along the waterfront paths at J Street Marina Bayside Park or spread out a blanket on the grass for a picnic.
Sports and Olympic Training
Watch athletes prepare for Olympic and Paralympic Games at the 153-acre Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Center. During guided tours, you'll see the training facilities, dining hall, and living quarters where athletes spend their days. The center includes tracks, rowing facilities, soccer fields, and archery ranges. The U.S. national rugby team regularly practices on the center's fields.
Mexican Food and Local Breweries
The city's proximity to Mexico influences its food scene, with Tijuana-style street tacos filled with marinated meats, fresh seafood dishes, and California burritos stuffed with carne asada and french fries. Sample local craft beers at Bay Bridge Brewing, the area's first microbrewery, or try Novo Brazil's German-style Chula Pils. Third Avenue Village combines Mexican restaurants with coffee shops and craft beer taprooms.
Shopping and Entertainment
Browse through clothing boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries in Third Avenue Village's early 1900s buildings. At Otay Ranch Town Center, an open-air mall includes department stores and fashion retailers, plus a dog park and children's play fountain. Listen to rock, hip-hop, and country music performances at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre. Kids can splash in 11 water slides, ride on family-friendly attractions, and meet their favorite characters at Sesame Place San Diego.
