A Complete Guide to San Diego Murals
Murals are all the rage right now, and unless you've been living under a rock you know that they've taken over our Instagram feeds. San Diego is one of the best places in the country to take photos with fun murals, second only to Los Angeles. When I first went on the hunt for fun and colorful San Diego murals, I found it very hard to get the info I needed to actually go visit them. So I did all the legwork for you guys and complied this list complete with addresses you can put straight into your GPS. Have fun and snap away Instagrammers!
North Park San Diego Murals
North Park in San Diego is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of art, culture, and creativity, and its murals are a testament to that. These large-scale artworks adorn the walls of buildings, alleyways, and public spaces, showcasing a variety of styles and themes that reflect the community's diverse identity.
The most popular North Park Murals are the Mexican themed ones inside Artelexia, the pink wall at Pigment and Greetings from San Diego.
Greetings from SD
4223 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Madsteez's T-Rex
3029 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
La Jolla San Diego Murals
La Jolla, a picturesque coastal community in San Diego, is home to a striking collection of murals that blend art with the natural beauty of the area. The La Jolla Murals project, initiated by the Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, has transformed the walls of various buildings into stunning canvases for internationally renowned and local artists alike.
Each mural adds a unique touch to the urban landscape, often reflecting themes inspired by the ocean, nature, and contemporary culture. The artworks range from abstract and conceptual to visually immersive and playful, creating an outdoor gallery experience that contrasts beautifully with the upscale and serene environment of La Jolla.
Some of the best well known murals in La Jolla are One Pointed Attention by Kelsey Brookes, Favorite Color by Roy McMakin and John Baldessari's Brain/Cloud.
One Pointed Attention
7835 Ivanhoe Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037
My bestie Kara of Whimsy Soul vlogged our day in La Jolla. Skip ahead to 1:43 seconds to see the footage from Roy McMakin's Favorite Color Mural.
John Baldessari's Brain/Cloud Mural
You can get the best view of this mural from George's at the Cove restaurant.
Sea Walls: San Diego Murals for Oceans
Sea Walls: San Diego Murals for Oceans is a powerful public art initiative that brings together artists and environmental advocates to raise awareness about the critical issues facing our oceans.
Part of the global Sea Walls: Artists for Oceans project, this San Diego chapter features large-scale murals throughout the city, particularly in coastal communities, addressing themes such as marine conservation, climate change, pollution, and the protection of marine wildlife.
Each mural serves not only as a striking visual statement but also as a call to action, encouraging viewers to consider the impact of human activity on the oceans and to promote sustainable practices.
The vibrant, ocean-inspired artwork highlights the delicate beauty of marine ecosystems while educating and inspiring the community to take part in preserving them. These murals are more than just artβthey are a visual reminder of the interconnectedness between humanity and the sea, transforming public spaces into platforms for ecological advocacy.
CO2 Kills Mermaids
2977 Upas St, San Diego, CA 92104
University Heights San Diego Murals
University Heights in San Diego is a neighborhood rich in history and creativity, and its murals are a vibrant reflection of the community's artistic spirit. Many of the artworks celebrate the unique charm of University Heights, capturing both its historic roots and modern, bohemian vibe. The murals bring a splash of color to everyday life, transforming walls and alleyways into open-air galleries that engage locals and visitors alike.
Untitled by Ian Ross
4441 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116
Galaxy Seahorse
4441 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116
Shark Soup
4441 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92116
Little Italy Murals
I've compiled a comprehensive list of the best 45 spots to eat, drink and be merry in Little Italy. From the swanky high brow spots to the cool and comfy, it's all here. Plan a romantic evening with that special someone or invite your pals out for a brunch date.
Mission Beach San Diego Murals
Walk down the Oceansfront Boardwalk from Mission Beach to Pacific Beach, and stop to enjoy some sherbet and snow cones. Stroll down Crystal Pier and admired the adorable little white beach cottages that sit above the water. As the sun sets on a perfect day, catch that gorgeous golden hour glow.
Check out these stylish San Diego hotels:
Explore these San Diego tours and adventures:
Spend the day shopping for bargains and sightseeing south of the border during this 5-hour day trip to Tijuana from San Diego.
Check out some of the cityβs top sights, including its Old Bullring, Plaza Rio, Avenue of the Heroes and Tijuana Cultural Center. Then enjoy a Mexican taco snack and bargain for some souvenirs along Revolution Avenue (Avenida RevoluciΓ³n).
Your Tijuana trip also includes round-trip air-conditioned transport from your San Diego hotel, guide and a snack.
Explore some of the top highlights of San Diego with this one- or two-day pass for the cityβs Hop-on, Hop-off Trolley Tour. Choose your own adventure as you get on and off the trolley at any of the 10 included stops, covering famous sights including the Gaslamp Quarter, the San Diego Zoo, USS Midway and the Cruise Ship Terminal, Little Italy, and many more.
Add a little Mexican spice to your visit to California during this 9-hour San Diego to Baja day trip.
Enjoy the sublime coastal scenery as you spot abundant marine life during this 2-hour trip kayaking in La Jollaβs sea caves.
In just four hours, experience the scenic highlights of San Diego and its neighboring areas. Watch sea lions and pelicans on the beaches of La Jolla and capture fantastic views from the top of Mt Soledad.
Soak up the Old World elegance of the mansions and Hotel Del on Coronado Island, and find peace in the urban oasis of Balboa Park. Wind through downtown and Old Town San Diego, learning about the cityβs history along the way.
Enjoy personalized attention on this small-group tour limited to just 14 people.