Known for its picture-perfect climate and beautiful beaches, San Diego is a gem on the California coast.
Whether you are visiting for work or based in San Diego, the city has many opportunities for corporate team-building activities. As home to many different cultures and host to all types of businesses, San Diego has no shortage of team-building experiences to try out.
Take a look at the top 20 team-building activities in San Diego:
1. cityHUNT Scavenger Hunt
cityHUNT Scavenger Hunt offers exciting and memorable corporate team-building activities and scavenger hunts. Designed to be interactive, cityHUNT’s scavenger hunts guide your team all over the city of San Diego to discover new and exciting landmarks, venues, and other destinations in the city.
Whether you are welcoming new team members to the city or traveling with your corporate team for work, cityHUNT can help you connect with San Diego like never before.
- Location: San Diego & other locations
- Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars
- Customer Testimonial: “cityHUNT did an excellent job of creating a team-building event tailored to the skills of our employees. I was impressed with the challenging clues and exciting activities that fostered productive communication and trust among us all. Fun was had by everyone.”
2. San Diego Zoo Safari Park
A visit to the local zoo offers a unique and engaging environment for corporate team building. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers both a traditional zoo and a larger safari park for guests to explore, offering unforgettable opportunities to witness majestic animals like giraffes and rhinos up close and personal.
- Location: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA 92027
- Rating: 4.7/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “I could write a book on how incredible the Safari park is and how beautiful! The people that work here are so friendly and so informative. A HUGE shout out to Stevie who drove us to the African Safari. They have a local radio station playing and we had the best time with the adorable bee dancers. The grounds are spectacular and the animals are amazing! I cannot get over how clean the Safari park is. We even did the hot air balloon ride… Kudos to you all for conserving and caring for the wild animals. Hands down a must see for everyone!”
3. Aqua Adventures Rentals – Kayaks, Stand-Up Paddleboards, & More
Aqua Adventures Mission Bay Kayak & Paddleboard rentals offers not just watersport equipment rentals but also retail sales, tours, lessons, and events. For fun-deprived teams, Aqua Adventures offers the watersport diversity you need for a fantastic day on the water with your team.
- Location: 1548 Quivira Way Suite 10, San Diego, CA 92109
- Rating: 4.8/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “My weekly experiences are wonderful!
- Both, my daughter and I thoroughly enjoy this outdoor, Covid friendly activity. The entire staff is incredibly friendly and very helpful. They have EXCELLENT prices, very affordable. I recently rented for a group of 17 over the busy Labor Day weekend and it went very smoothly. Ashley, the owner, along with Isabel, Joanna, Cindy and the rest of the team were attentive, pleasant and patient with us. We are also grateful for the kayak attendants (Josh, Richard, Joel) for helping us get on our kayaks; we were even given a free lesson to the few that had never kayaked before! It was much appreciated! I highly recommend this Aqua Adventure to both tourists and locals alike. San Diego is lucky to have this marvelous company!”
4. Red Door Escape Room
Test your team’s patience and attention to detail at the Red Door Escape Room in San Diego. With multiple locations in the city, Red Door Escape Room allows you to select the escape room guest that best matches the interests and strengths of your team.
- Location: 7007 Friars Rd Suite 212, San Diego, CA 92108
- Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Had a great time trying to escape with coworkers! Our guide Kameron was FANTASTIC! He did a wonderful job orienting us to the room and getting us prepped. We did Prison Break and it was definitely challenging! The attention to detail in the rooms is incredible and I will definitely be returning!”
5. Sail San Diego
Show your team a new view of San Diego from the deck of a sailboat. Sail San Diego offers public and private sailing excursions, as well as corporate sailing packages designed specifically for team-building.
- Location: 2720 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
- Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “I was part of a corporate group that used Sail San Diego for a Saturday, 8/20, outing. It was set up as a race between the two boats we chartered with the corporate people doing most of the sailing, including helmsmen. Our captain only took the helm when we might be approaching an area of concern (well before we were in any danger). While the boat I was in did not win the race (through no fault of Theo, our captain) we had a fabulous time. Theo was always polite and courteous and clearly kept our safely and interest foremost in his thinking. He was fun and funny and gave us great tips on improving our performance as a team and individually during the race. I recommend Sail San Diego without reservation.”
6. San Diego Wine & Culinary Event Center
Plan a food-and-wine-pairings event for your team at the San Diego Wine and Culinary Event Center. The center can accommodate groups of all sizes, ranging from ten to five hundred, and offers a wide selection of different events designed for corporate groups.
- Location: 200 W Harbor Dr #120, San Diego, CA 92101
- Rating: 4.6/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Fantastic venue for any type of events in San Diego! From business meeting, through birthday and anniversaries to weddings. Wine & Culinary Center is charming and great place to further decorate. The team is extremely friendly and very knowledgeable! Kenny will tell you everything about wine! The food is top notch. Simply the whole experience is hands-down 5-stars!”
7. Paint the Town Painting Lessons
Let your team’s creative side show with private painting lessons from Paint the Town. Each painting experience is tailored to a specific group, allowing you to select the date, time, and painting.
- Location: Onsite, virtual, or hybrid – Paint the Town comes to you
- Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “We had a paint party for our team and it was fantastic. Celia was super helpful during the planning process and had great suggestions – the entire process was a breeze. You can choose from a large portfolio of paintings with different styles that suit all tastes. We initially planned to host the party in a local park, but because the weather wasn’t quite up to it, Celia moved it into our office at short notice. She brings all supplies and materials, so you don’t need to worry about anything. Everyone had a blast painting. Celia is a fantastic instructor who gives you the right amount of guidance to create a painting that is beautiful and also your own work of art. I can’t wait to try another painting. Highly recommend!”
8. Mesa Rim Climbing Center (Mission Valley)
Help your team learn the ropes of climbing at the Mesa Rim Climbing Center in Mission Valley. Along with an array of challenging boulders and auto-belays, Mesa Rim also offers team-building events.
- Location: 405 Camino del Rio S, San Diego, CA 92108
- Rating: 4.7/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Absolutely amazing place. So worth it. The facilities are amazing, and on top of that–the staff was so very kind and inviting to us. I had a large group of folks with me, and we were too late to participate in a scheduled class, AND David went out of his way to still teach us the skills we needed to know to get the most out of our experience. He’s a great teacher, very reassuring. Shout out to David and Bianca from the front desk (who shares my name) 🙂 We ended up having such an amazing time, I know our group will be back”
9. Plan a Corporate Retreat at Ranch Bernardo Inn
If you have an upcoming conference, meeting, or simply want to give your team a retreat from the office, the Ranch Bernardo Inn can provide you with the space and accommodations you need.
- Location: 17550 Bernardo Oaks Dr, San Diego, CA 92128
- Rating: 4.5/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Excellent service all around. Hospitality at its highest level. Spa amenities put us in the best of relaxation mode. Dining at AVANT was extraordinary. One of a kind culinary experience. Property is externally beautiful you can’t help but be in a relaxed state of mind.”
10. Balboa Park Public Golf Course
Hit the greens with your team to test out your swing and enjoy a day in the sun. Balboa Park Golf Course is located near the heart of San Diego and is open to the public, making it a great choice for a casual afternoon of golfing and team bonding.
- Location: 2600 Golf Course Dr, San Diego, CA 92102
- Rating: 4.3/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “This City-owned golf course is a public treasure. I was happy to play again on a visit to San Diego, after a 15-year hiatus, and it’s as scenic and challenging as ever. Love the location near downtown, with views of the skyline from many holes. The fairways are tight and there are several holes with strategically placed sand traps, which makes it tough to score well. But the greens fees are very reasonable, especially compared to the City’s more famous course (Torrey Pines). Definitely worth a visit by golf lovers of all ages and skill levels.”
11. Another Side of San Diego Segway Tours
Discover San Diego from another perspective with a tour from Another Side of San Diego. While segway tours may be the main attraction, Another Side of San Diego also offers daily city tours, private tours, e-bike tours, and even team-building experiences.
- Location: 300 G St, San Diego, CA 92101
- Rating: 4.7/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “We did the private Segway tour with Melissa, who was a delight. She was a wonderful guide and one thing that I really appreciated is she was equally considerate, and wonderful to the folks we were moving around… she navigated us through obstacles (peoples and vehicles alike) with grace and kindness – no one became frustrated and most folks had kind words. Her knowledge of San Diego was impressive, and she brought us to some very cool spots along fifth avenue, and all along the waterfront. Their facilities were clean, and the area they were in felt safe. We had a blast with our guide, and would be happy to go again on a new route, and would recommend to everyone!”
12. Riffs Yoga Studios Corporate Yoga
Treat your team to a relaxing and rejuvenating yoga class, tailored just for them. Riffs Yoga Studio offers a corporate yoga and wellness program that can teach your team the essentials of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness both at work and in their personal lives.
- Location: 5510 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Riff’s is magic! From the knowledgeable teachers, unique workshops, and amazing outdoor deck space, it’s is such a unique spot. Alana’s morning flows are a great way to start the day feeling connected, and always have good music. Sammy’s vinyasa is great for a challenge and if you’re interested in practicing inversions or learning new poses. Definitely recommend!”
13. San Diego Surf School
Hop on a surfboard and ride the waves of San Diego with surfing lessons for teams. San Diego Surf School offers group, semi-private, and private surf lessons with CPR-certified instructors.
- Location: 4850 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
- Rating: 4.9/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “We had a really fun group lesson with San Diego Surf school. Our two families were visiting San Diego and booked a lesson for 11 of us; ages 9 to 47. Everyone had a lot of fun. Our three instructors made sure everyone got to ride some waves, and they worked super hard to make sure we all had a great time. They supplied wetsuits which enabled us to stay in for over an hour even though the water was only 58. Highly recommend!!”
14. Punch Bowl Social
When planning a corporate event in San Diego, finding the right venue can make a huge difference. Punch Bowl Social offers a diverse event space that includes a 360-degree bar, craft cocktails, bowling alleys, shuffleboard, karaoke, and bocce ball.
- Location: 1485 E St, San Diego, CA 92101
- Rating: 4.3/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “I attended a business dinner and event while visiting a conference in San Diego. The Punch Bowl Social hosted our first night’s social networking gathering. It is quite the facility. Lots of room, good food, and plenty of fun things to enjoy.”
15. San Diego Trail Company
Help your team become better acquainted with horseback trail riding at San Diego Trail Company. San Diego Trail Company offers experiences for riders of all levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Location: 14875 Mina De Oro Rd, Poway, CA 92064
- Rating: 4.3/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “It was an amazing trail ride! The horses were gentle, and our guide was excellent at helping us learn how to handle them. The scenery along the trail was beautiful.”
16. UC San Diego Challenge Course
The UCSD Challenge Course services a wide range of groups, including corporate and professional groups, by providing custom challenges and experiences.
- Location: 10199 Hopkins Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093
- Rating: 4.9/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Enlightening team experience. Laura and Anachron were awesome hostess. Very personable, professional and most importantly, fun! I highly recommend this for your team, even if you do not go up in the ropes.”
17. San Diego Laser Tag
Embrace your team’s competitive spirit with a match of laser tag. San Diego Laser Tag is an outdoor laser tag center that offers private events for corporate experiences.
- Location: 8445 Camino Santa Fe, San Diego, CA 92121
- Rating: 5.0/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “My son and his friends loved the laser tag games. The company was professional and very helpful. They controlled the games and kept the flow of the games smooth. They are Highly recommended by me.”
18. The San Diego Museum of Art
Immerse your corporate team in art and culture at the San Diego Museum of Art. This museum offers a variety of tours, including both guided tours for in-person visits and virtual tours for corporate teams working from remote or hybrid workspaces.
- Location: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102
- Rating: 4.6/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “A lovely museum! I was impressed by the range of the collection on display from Asian art and baroque to contemporary women artists and photography. Bonus that it’s located in such a cool area with lots of other museums to visit!”
19. San Diego Botanic Garden
Experience the breathtaking sights and flora of the San Diego Botanic Garden. For corporate teams, the San Diego Botanic Garden offers excellent opportunities to engage in volunteering for the community.
- Location: 398 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas, CA 92024
- Rating: 4.6/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “San Diego Botanical Gardens is a lovely botanical garden. It has a varied elevation, so there are some stairs. Be sure to get yourself to the observation tower for a beautiful view of the surrounding area. There is a play area for children, snack bar and restrooms. Becoming a member means a reciprical agreement to various other botanical gardens. Most importantly, you will have a lovely walk through a beautiful botanical garden. Set aside at least one hour for your visit.”
20. Trivia Night at Kilowatt Brewing
Let your team flex their obscure knowledge with a trivia night at Kilowatt Brewing. The event schedule at Kilowatt Brewing can vary, so make sure to check out the event calendar to view upcoming experiences.
- Location: 7576 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92111
- Rating: 4.7/5.0 stars (Google Business)
- Customer Testimonial: “Cool snappy cat bar tender and great beer. Even the guy doing trivia later was friendly. We also loved all the trippy lots and the two phat tv screens.”
