Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriquez Cabrillo landed San Diego' s Point Loma area in 1542, claiming the area for Spain. Spanish rule in California ended in 1821, and subsequently Mexico and America fought over rights to the land for many years. In 1850 California became the 31st state in the U.S., the same year San Diego was declared a city. Another favourite outside activity is golf.
Several courses are even lit for night playing.
Professional sports teams include baseball, football, hockey and soccer. Many San Diego residents came here first as tourists who were enchanted by San Diego's sunny beaches, nearby mountains and deserts, plus the cultural delights of any big city. The world famous San Diego Zoo, Sea World, Wild Animal Park, museums, concerts and other attractions bring visitors from around the world. The zoo is home to some 4,000 animals, including the world's largest collection of parrots. Animals are displayed in natural settings, and there is a petting zoo for children.