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The Perfect Day Trip to San Diego: How to Spend Just One Day in San Diego

last Updated: May 10, 2023 california San Diego Southern California

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Planning a day trip to San Diego in the near future? Here’s everything you need to know and more! From when to go, what to bring, how to get there, and all my favorite things to do if all you’ve got is just one day in San Diego.

There’s a reason San Diego’s called ‘America’s Finest City’. It’s got sandy beaches, a slower pace of life than nearby Orange County and Los Angeles , and almost guaranteed sun.

There’s sea caves and rugged cliffs to explore, the cutest sea lions known to man, the postcard-perfect resort city of Coronado, and you can even go snorkeling with leopard sharks (true story). And 125+ other things to do in San Diego , but that’s for another time!

The first time I visited the city, I only had enough time to spend a measly one day in San Diego. We were visiting from nearby San Clemente on a much longer Southern California road trip , so figured, why not make the short drive down! And boy did we not plan out our day trip to San Diego correctly. After driving down we honestly didn’t even know where to begin! Whoops!

But since that first failed trip, I’ve been to San Diego a few times and more than made up for it! Once for a girl’s trip full of tons of tacos and San Diego photo spots , and another to watch my husband run the San Diego Half Marathon! So now I’ve got lots more info to share about how I’d spend a perfect day trip to San Diego.

Because sometimes you’ve only got time for one day in San Diego, but don’t worry — you can still eat plenty of tacos and hang at the beach!

→ Have more time in San Diego? Lucky duck! Check out the best way to spend a long weekend (3 days) in San Diego !

Day Trip to San Diego At-A-Glance

• Morning : Coffee, Brunch, La Jolla
• Afternoon : Balboa Park, Old Town or Coronado
• Night : Sunset at Sunset Cliffs, dinner in Little Italy, drinks in Gaslamp

Day Trip to San Diego Logistics

When to Spend One Day in San Diego (Weather)

San Diego’s got near-perfect weather so there’s no horrible time to visit, making the city a year-round destination. The sun shines over 265 days a year, and the average weather is a balmy 70 degrees F. And it hardly ever rains (and when it does, it typically doesn’t last all day). 

It’s basically endless summer over here. And I’m all for it. Sounds pretty perfect to me. Why’d we choose to live in foggy San Francisco again…?

BUT here’s the thing — if you’re looking for beach time, stay away from the area in May and June. Like other parts of the California coast ( Pescadero , Half Moon Bay , Big Sur , etc), San Diego experiences a few months where it’s mostly gray and gloomy with mostly overcast skies. 

Us local Californians call it May-Gray, June-Gloom, and it’s a real thing! And we hate it! Although it’s way easier to capture all the photo spots in San Diego when there’s no sun (because no shadows!).

How to Get to San Diego 

San Diego is as far south as you can get in California — It’s only about 20 miles from the Mexican border! 

Thankfully, despite it’s super southern location, you can easily take a day trip to San Diego from plenty of other major spots in SoCal.

As I mentioned earlier, we were spending a week in San Clemente and decided to hop down the I-5 for just one (but very lovely) day in San Diego. 

Just remember — California is HUGE. Like, San Francisco is almost a 9 hour drive away. I say this to remind you that a day trip to San Diego won’t be possible from everywhere in California.

I wouldn’t recommend planning a day trip to San Diego if you’re further than 3 hours away or so. Plan to visit another time! And plus, there’ll likely be at least a little bit of that horrendous SoCal traffic (no surprise there)!

Here’s a few popular spots in Southern California and their approximate driving times/distance to San Diego:

• San Clemente : ~1 hour, 60 miles
• Huntington Beach : ~1 ½ hours, 95 miles
• Santa Monica/Venice Beach : ~2 hours, 135 miles
• Los Angeles : ~2 hours, 120 miles
• Palm Springs : ~2 ½ hours, 140 miles
• Joshua Tree : ~2 ½ hours, 160 miles

There’s also the Pacific Surfliner Amtrak Train which is a great option for a day trip to San Diego from SoCal if you don’t feel like driving. AND you won’t have to worry about finding parking — double win! 

While the train starts up north in San Luis Obispo, it takes about 8-9 hours from SLO, so obviously not suitable for a day trip. The train from Santa Barbara still takes about 6 hours, so again, not possible as a day trip! 

Coming from OC or LA? It takes about 2 hours and 3 hours, respectively (phew — easily done in just a day). And just for your reference, there’s stops in Los Angeles, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and San Juan Capistrano. Just make sure to factor in getting to the train station and parking your car.

If you wake up early enough you can get to San Diego before 10!

How to Get Around During Your Day Trip to San Diego

The best way to get around during your day trip to San Diego? Well, that kinda depends on how you’re planning to get to San Diego. 

Driving : If you’re driving into the city from nearby, you’ve obviously got your car. But with that comes the possibility of difficult parking (although we’re always able to find a spot eventually — just gotta be patient)! And thankfully if you’re just doing a short day trip to San Diego, I assume you won’t be staying overnight. Meaning no exorbitant overnight hotel parking fees! Which usually cost on average at $30-$50 per night — more money for tacos!

Ride Shares : If you’re taking the train, you’ll need to rely on ride shares like Uber and Lyft, and/or public transportation. Unfortunately, since the city is spread out the cost of Ubers do add up. But if you’ve only got one day in San Diego and aren’t sure when you’ll be back, plan ahead and take the Uber if you can. 

One way to combat this — carefully plan out your day trip to San Diego! This way you aren’t zigzagging back and forth across the city!

Public Transit: While San Diego doesn’t have extensive public transit like say, New York City does, I was surprised to learn there’s actually a few trolley lines and bus routes . And the city does look rather well-connected. 

You’ll undoubtedly need to walk a bunch, but from looking at the maps, you can definitely get around downtown San Diego quite easily. But remember, you’ll wanna leave downtown for sure! Plan to use Uber for those routes!

Scooters : San Diego seems to have a thing for scooters (I mean, the weather’s nearly perfect for them). I don’t trust myself on those things, so can’t give you first-hand experience on scooting around San Diego. 

But there’s tons of them and people use them, so they must work pretty well! Just remember the city is pretty spread out, so you may just wanna just use scooters to go the shorter distances (since you can’t of course scoot on the highway).

Hop On Hop Off Bus: Like so many other cities, San Diego’s got a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus . Although it’s not actually a bus, it’s a trolley! How much fun is that?! Sure, it’s super touristy, but if you don’t have a car for your one day in San Diego and want a super easy way to get around, it can definitely come in handy. And considering it gives you unlimited transportation for the entire day, it’s not a bad deal either. 

Is One Day in San Diego Enough?

Yes… but not really, haha. It’s enough to give you a small sampling of what this thriving area’s got to offer, but you’ll 100% wanna stay longer and/or come back. 

But really though, if all you’ve got time for is a day trip to San Diego, opt for the day. It’s better than no time at all!

Sometimes one day in San Diego’s all you got! Maybe you’re taking a much longer California coast road trip down the PCH and ending in SD, or using it as a stopover en route to elsewhere on the west coast. 

Honestly, the city’s got way too much to squeeze into just one day. I really recommend at least 3 days in San Diego , but alas, we don’t always have time for that! There’s too many museums, beaches, unique neighborhoods, historical sites, and foodie and photo spots for a quick 24 hours or less. Trust me — making this one day in San Diego itinerary was difficult! I had to leave off so many of my favorite spots! BUT there’s always next time!

→ Here for longer? Check out this massive bucket list of things to do in San Diego , full of over 125+ things to see and do, and most importantly, eat!

Tips to Maximize Your Day Trip to San Diego

• Start early! If you’re spending the night before your one day in San Diego, wake up and get out exploring at a reasonable hour! If you’re driving down or taking the train, set your alarm so you get to San Diego before 10am!
• Pay for parking if need be. If you’ve only got one day, you don’t wanna spend half your time looking for parking. Yes, paying for parking sucks (I get it — I’d rather save that cash for tacos), but sometimes you just gotta suck it up. Time is money, people!

• Plan out your food stops in advance. It’s hard to have a bad meal in San Diego, but if you’re an indecisive person like me, the choices may overwhelm you. Do your research ahead of time so you don’t waste time deciding where to eat.
• If you are staying overnight, stay in downtown San Diego . You’ll be close to almost everything and centrally located. Plus, the nightlifes great! You can drag your boozy self right to bed!
• The city is spread out — plan for this. Unlike San Francisco, San Diego covers a lot of miles. You’ll wanna give yourself time to get from spot to spot. So cram it all in, but don’t go absolutely overboard. 
• Skip the San Diego Zoo on your day trip to San Diego. Save it for next time when you can give it the time it deserves. On that note — always skip SeaWorld no matter how long you’ve got in the city (we don’t agree with a lot of their unethical practices and questionable animal encounter experiences).

Planning Your One Day in San Diego Itinerary

If you’ve only got one day in San Diego, you wanna make sure you plan your time out right! The city is pretty spread out with plenty of different neighborhoods, so I suggest having a well-thought out plan… this is not the time to just wing it!

You definitely wanna start your day out early in order to see as much as possible. If you wanna skip a few things in the one day San Diego itinerary below, feel free to sleep in a tad, but not for too long! Make the most of your time here!

Just remember — I’ve planned out a pretty jam-packed day trip to San Diego, so if you want a more leisurely day and don’t feel like rushing around, pick and choose your favorites! I tried to incorporate the main highlights into this one day in San Diego, including some beach time, cultural experiences, and of course some food!

No matter what, you’ll wanna come back — one day in San Diego is never enough, I can promise you that!

So let’s get started with our day trip to San Diego — Full of all the iconic spots in the city. The perfect one day in San Diego itinerary, coming right up!

Day Trip to San Diego Itinerary

One day in san diego: morning.

Stop #1: Breakfast/Brunch and Exploring in La Jolla

Start your day off bright and early with a coffee and some breakfast in La Jolla! Remember, this is a busy day in San Diego, so you’ll wanna make sure you’re fueled up for all the fun. Unless you wanna allocate a while for brunch (hey, I get it — you wanna stay time efficient on our day trip to San Diego), I’d pick a spot that won’t take all day.

And if you’re driving, it’ll be easier to find parking in La Jolla earlier in the morning than mid-day.

Here’s a few options for a quick breakfast/brunch in La Jolla:

• Parakeet Cafe: Super trendy but pretty low-key. More of a grab and go and seat yourself kinda place. I wanna try one of their toasts next time I’m in the area — the almond butter and avocado toasts look absolutely delicious. Oh and that cacao waffle. Mmmm….
• Wayfarer Bread & Pastry: Another quick grab and go spot, home to the best sourdough and croissants in town. Expect to find lots of yummy artisan pastries like apple hazelnut croissants and cranberry orange scones in a breezy, beachy cafe!
• Sugar and Scribe: A quintessential La Jolla hangout home of Food Network Champion Chef Maeve (Holiday Baking Championship, anyone?!). Think nutella french toast, fluffy egg whites, and traditional Irish soda bread. And plus, the dog creamer pitchers are so cute!

Need some caffeine? 

• Better Buzz Coffee La Jolla: Skip the Starbucks and head to Better Buzz, a trendy coffee spot with blue starburst tiles and a massive neon BUZZ sign. Try a Mint Infused Iced Coffee — so delicious!
• Coffee Cup San Diego: Nice little place with outdoor seating and great coffee. What else do you need?!
• Bird Rock Coffee Roasters: So many fun and creative lattes here!  Try the gold digger (with honey and cinnamon) or the trophy wife (macadamia nut) over ice. Or they’ve got single origin pour-overs if you’re not in the mood for so much milk.

After you’re full, plan to explore La Jolla for the rest of the morning, one of my favorite areas in all of San Diego! The area’s absolutely gorgeous and known for its rugged coastline, leopard sharks and harbor seals (yes, really!), and tons of street art. You could really spend your entire one day in San Diego just here in La Jolla, but you’ll just need to come back next time! 

Unfortunately, with only a single day in San Diego I honestly don’t think you have time for snorkeling or kayaking — two of La Jolla’s best activities. They both take up a lot of time, especially if there’s other spots you wanna check out on your day trip to San Diego. Plus, you’ll be all gross and wet afterwards, meaning you’ll need to shower and change… yeah, way too much time. 

But don’t get too upset, there’s still lots to do in La Jolla on land!

If I only had a few hours, here’s exactly what I’d do: 

Watch the seals and sea lions at the Children’s Pool: If there’s one thing you do in La Jolla during your day trip to San Diego, make it this. The Children’s Pool is where you’ll see (and hear!) those famous harbor seals and sea lions you’ve probably been hearing all about! As iconic as it gets here in San Diego!

While you are technically allowed to swim in the water here, it’s highly discouraged . As always, keep a safe distance to any wildlife you see to protect not only yourself, but the animals as well. We want them to feel welcome here in San Diego for years and years to come!

Walk a bit north on Coast Blvd and you’ll pass by Seal Rock, to see, you guessed it — more seals basking on the rocks! We enjoyed watching them flop around so much we accidentally spent over an hour here, whoops!

La Jolla Cove: How does a small, picturesque cove surrounded by cliffs and palm trees sound?! That’s La Jolla Cove for ya!  You’ll find plenty of people sunbathing and swimming here on the little beach when it’s warm out, and casually staring out at the beautiful Pacific if it’s too chilly.

Dip your toes in the water and relish in that sweet, sweet San Diego sun. Just don’t get too close to the seals — they tend to hang out here on occasion.

Coastal Walk Trail: Stretch those legs! The Coastal Walk Trail in La Jolla is beautiful and easy, stretching from La Jolla Cove to La Jolla Shores. It’s just about a half mile long so it won’t take too long at all. 

You can either start at the Cave Store or at the small cul-de-sac along Prospect St. (with a small parking lot for about 10 cars). You’ll even find a secret swing over here (if you know where to look). 

Sunny Jim Cave: Not a fan of kayaking but still wanna see a famous La Jolla cave? I get it — I’m way too clumsy to spend any time on a kayak. Make sure you visit the Sunny Jim Cave instead — it’s the only sea cave in California accessible by land. 

You enter by walking through a 100-year-old tunnel inside The Cave Store and heading down a few flights of old stairs. And voila, the cave appears! Just be careful, the stairway is old and can be pretty slippery, so wear proper shoes.

And the best part — the whole experience takes less than 20 minutes! Perfect for when you’re short on time.

Go Mural Hunting: La Jolla is home to a whole slew of murals perfect for your IG feed; check out this map to find your favorites. I loved the piano fingers and abstract art in the parking lot but both were hard to photograph considering they’re pretty high up. 

But one you need to see?! Roy McMakin’s Favorite Color mural! It’s easily the most popular one and has been around since 2010. And omg so colorful! A must on your day trip to San Diego if you’re looking for the best photo spots in SD!

Before you leave La Jolla I recommend grabbing some of the best tacos you’ve ever had in your life (yes, I said it) at The Taco Stand. Sure, there might be a line, but well worth the additional time!

Stop #2: It’s Taco Time

You can’t leave San Diego without stuffing a few tacos in your mouth. Well, I mean you could, but what kinda life is that?! Since San Diego is so close to the Mexican border, you can just imagine how authentic that greasy goodness is. I swear, we ate at about 5 or 6 different taco jaunts on our 3 days in San Diego last time. 

And yes, they’re that good. Almost as good as the tacos we recently ate in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico .

Tacos are a staple of San Diego, so thankfully finding some great ones aren’t hard to do. If you wanna stay in the La Jolla area, there’s a bunch of great taco restaurants and stands.

A few options for ya:

• The Taco Stand La Jolla: Super casual and fun. There’ll probably be a (long) line depending on when you come, but the tacos are some of the best I’ve ever had. Worth it?… yes! Definitely grab a few al pastor tacos (obviously), but try the churros and carne asada fries too! If I had to pick my favorite taco spot in La Jolla, this would be it!
• Puesto La Jolla: This one’s eclectic and more upscale, with a unique take on artisanal tacos in a bright and breezy brick space. I just love how it’s owned and operated by a Mexican American family. Don’t miss the mango shrimp ceviche and a mango margarita! A tad on the expensive side with tacos at $7-$9 a pop. 
• City Tacos : With locations around the city, this spot is popular for a reason. Try the fried mahi-mahi tacos on homemade corn tortillas, a Mexicali taco (or two), elote (grilled Mexican street corn), and the surf and turf taco. All creative and modern. 

If you don’t mind going out of your way (a tiny bit), you gotta check out Las Cuatro Milpas — an authentic, old-school spot in Barrio Logan. The real deal my friends. We got 2 huge plates of no-frills Mexican food and homemade tortillas for just over $10. 

Day Trip to San Diego: Afternoon

Stop #3: Balboa Park

No visit to San Diego is complete without at least a little time spent in Balboa Park! While you can easily spend a whole day here checking out all the museums and gardens, I recommend picking and choosing a few main things you wanna check out. 

Why?! Because there’s no way you’ll get to everything in Balboa Park with just a day in San Diego — there’s 17 museums here! So you really gotta pick and choose your favorites, especially if you wanna make it to the next stop below (your choice)! 

In all honesty, I’d skip the museums and zoo on your day trip to San Diego, and focus on other activities in the park. You’d be rushing through them anyways, so may as well leave them for when you’ve got a bit more time. And by now you already know you wanna come back…

Thankfully, everything is within walking distance so you can tick off a bunch in only a few hours. But whatever you do, walk up and down the Prado, the main pedestrian street running through the park, admiring the ornate baroque architecture. It’s a true cultural oasis and oh so gorgeous. Stop and look up at Casa del Prado — it’s my favorite!

With a limited amount of time, here’s what I’d do (expect this to all take approximately 2-3 hours if you don’t linger too long in one spot):

Spreckels Organ Pavilion: The largest outdoor pipe organ in the world is housed here in Balboa Park! The 5,000 pipes range in length from the size of a pencil to a whopping 32 feet. And if you happen to get lucky, you may even see a free organ concert (occuring every Sunday at 2pm). We watched an organ rehearsal and every note was absolutely mesmerizing! I especially loved the ornate architecture — so fun to photograph!

Alcazar Garden: Boxwood hedges in a walled courtyard. Flowers blooming year round. Colorful tiled fountains and stunning architecture. I totally felt like I was wandering through a romantic garden of the Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain! A quick little stop but definitely worthy of a few minutes.

Spanish Village Art Center: This was my all-time favorite spot in all of Balboa Park, and one of my favorite photo spots in San Diego ! Strolling along the quaint artist studios and colorful courtyard is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon — and plus, you’re guaranteed to get some great photos for the ‘gram! Even the Spanish-style buildings and floor tiles are painted in bright colors, depicting a charming old village in Spain — so fun! 

Palm Canyon Trail: Kinda a hidden spot in Balboa Park, but definitely not to be missed if you’re a sucker for palm trees like I am! There’s over 450 palms in nearly 2 acres — a true tropical oasis right in the middle of the park! It’s 2 miles but you can always walk a portion of it and turn back around like we typically do if you’re tight on time. Make sure to check out the huge fig tree at the entrance of the trail — it’s absolutely wild!

Lily Pond and Botanical Garden: Two icons of Balboa Park and a must on any day trip to San Diego. Definitely spend a few minutes inside the botanical garden — not only are there an impressive amount of ferns and orchids and palm trees (more than 2,000!) under the domed ceiling, but it’s completely free to enter!  

It’s a dramatic building with a jungle-y interior — I kinda felt like I was walking through the rainforests of Olympic National Park or in Fern Canyon for a hot second! Then take some photos outside near the Lily Pond — it’s absolutely gorgeous on a warm, sunny day.

Stop #4: Old Town or Coronado Island

Depending on how long you wandered around Balboa Park, and depending what time sunset is, you may have time to check out another spot in San Diego. My two choices: Old Town -or- Coronado Island.

Choose Old Town if you wanna experience the cultural birthplace of California, and choose Coronado Island if you want some true beach time!

Old Town is a historic neighborhood in San Diego (created back in 1769) that was considered to be the birthplace of California! Head over to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park to explore what life was like back then — there’s preserved and replicated buildings, museum exhibits, and all around historical entertainment. The last time we were there it was almost Day of the Dead — and what gorgeous altars of remembrance and exhibits there were!

Dip some candles at Toby’s Candle Shop, make a beeline for the barrels of taffy at Cousin’s Candy Shop, watch the daily mariachi band and Folklorico dancing, and check out the Whaley House Museum (one of the most famous haunted houses in the United States).

And whatever you do, don’t miss all the homemade artisan goods and pottery in the shops! They pay homage to Mexican culture and heritage in the early 1800s. I loved browsing all the fun arts and crafts the vendors had to offer, especially the Mexican ceramics. 

OH! And don’t leave without trying a piping hot homemade tortilla from the free tortilla stand (just please be kind and leave a tip). They are absolutely delicious and perfect if you’re a tad hungry. 

Coronado 

The second you get to Coronado Island you’ll see just how charming and cute it is! Such a quaint coastal village and such a different feel than other parts of the city and a must on any day trip to San Diego.

Coronado’s got a gentle surf, sparkling beaches, and a charming main street. There’s a reason it’s known as the crown jewel of San Diego.

Whatever you do, don’t miss Hotel Del. With its distinctive red Victorian roof, picture perfect views of the beach and Pacific, and delicious cocktails (who am I kidding, you knew that was coming), Hotel Del shouldn’t be missed. 

You can wander around, but if you’re here for some beach time, you’re in luck. Although it certainly looks like a resort town, the beach is public and it’s GORGEOUS. To no surprise, it’s commonly said to be one of the best beaches in America (once you see the seemingly-endless white sand complete with gold sparkles you’ll easily see why).

Rent an iconic red and white striped chaise lounge and spend an hour or two just relaxing at Coronado Beach. You earned it!

One Day in San Diego: Night

Stop #5: Sunset Cliffs

After a busy afternoon, it’s time to watch a famous San Diego sunset. And the best spot for that — Sunset Cliffs Natural Park of course. Dramatic sandstone cliffs. Untouched vegetation. Stunning ocean vistas. Sounds like the perfect night to me.

Psst — it can get quite windy so bring along a sweater. It gets pretty crowded but the area’s large enough to accommodate everyone. You’ll definitely wanna keep your camera handy — I couldn’t stop taking pictures! Be especially careful as there’s zero guardrails along the sandstone cliffs and some of them are unstable.

Make sure to check times for sunset and aim to get there at least 30 minutes before sun down in order to find a parking spot and get comfy. Lots of people bring a blanket and some snacks and really get into it! I’ve even watched a proposal here!

Stop #6: Little Italy for Dinner and Dessert

Once you’re done exploring for the day, make your way over to Little Italy for dinner, dessert, and drinks.

There’s a whole bunch of authentic Italian restaurants in this area, but I always find myself going back to Monello for fresh cheese wheel pasta. Did you hear that — pasta made right in a wheel of cheese, and yes, it’s that good.

Here’s some other popular spots that I’m itching to try out:

• Mona Lisa Italian Foods: Lasagna. Need I say more? There’s also pizza and old-world Italian cooking, plus a deli with imported prosciutto and cheese if you want something more low-key.
• Davanti Enoteca: A large patio with shareable Italian cuisine. Everyone raves about the cacio e pepe, cheese focaccia, and the bloody mary towers.
• Ironside Fish & Oyster: Expect super fresh oysters and a seafood focused menu in a quirky renovated warehouse. If you get here before happy hour ends, you’ll find $1 oysters available Monday through Friday from 3-5pm. Definitely taking my husband here next time.
• Camino Riviera: Not in the mood for Italian food? No worries — this buzzy spot has seasonal Mexican food and a fun outdoor patio.

But no matter what you end up having for dinner, leave some room for Extraordinary Desserts! I’ve been here every single time I visited, even when we were only in San Diego for a day! 

We recently tried some of their fall favorites, including the apple crostini, and OMG. The chocolate cake is super delectable too. Always opt for a chocolate chip cookie as well (they’re the perfect after dinner treat; although no judgement if you save it for the next morning — what I always seem to do). 

Stop #7: Little Italy and/or Gaslamp Quarter for Drinks!

Still have some energy? Stay in Little Italy or head on over to the Gaslamp Quarter to check out the craft cocktail scene! There’s really something for everyone over here — eclectic wine bars, nightclubs with rooftop views, hidden speakeasies, and grungy sports bars. 

Here’s some spots to check out:

• Craft and Commerce: One of our favorite cocktail bars meets gastropubs in Little Italy! Just note some of their decor includes taxidermy, so stay away if that’s not your jam. (Little Italy)
• Wolfie’s Carousel Bar: New and unique — it’s fun to go once for the novelty of the spinning carousel bar but the drink menu is kinda small so I wouldn’t stay here all night.  I recommend making a reservation in advance to bypass the potentially long line out front. (Little Italy)

• Trailer Park After Dark: A dive bar serving American comfort food and beers in a funky trailer park-themed atmosphere. Such a fun vibe. (Gaslamp Quarter)
• The Nolen: Expect skyline views and a communal fire pit in this swanky rooftop bar in the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego. They even have old fashioneds on tap which are surprisingly good. (Gaslamp Quarter)
• Noble Experiment: Hidden speakeasy anyone?! It’s swanky and secret, tucked behind a secret door in The Neighborhood. You tell them what spirits you like and the bartender whips you something right up! (Gaslamp Quarter)

Other options for your night in San Diego 

Not feeling the San Diego nighttime drinking scene? Take a San Diego City Lights Night Tour instead! The city transforms at night, with beautiful lighting effects in Balboa Park, bright lights and Victorian architecture in the Gaslamp Quarter, and the illuminated San Diego city skyline from Coronado. Read reviews and book your city lights tour here!

And since it’s basically my job to give you a ton of options, if you want something a bit off-beat and different, be sure to check out the historic Gaslamp Quarter walking tour . You’ll learn about the scandals, debauchery, brothels, and more in what used to be San Diego’s red light district. Check out the aptly named Brothels, Bites, and Booze Tour , and make sure to come hungry (maybe have a light dinner), because the food stops are quite filling! Read reviews and book your Gaslamp walking tour here.

Hope this helps you plan out your perfect day trip to San Diego! Are you visiting the city anytime soon?!

Loo king for more California content? Explore my other California guides here!

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GUEST POST BY KAMELIA BRITTON BLOG: Hackerette

What’s the best time to visit San Diego?

Store your luggage:  LuggageHero allows you to store your luggage for as long as you want to. If you are there only for a day, or waiting for a check-in, this sounds like a perfect option!

San Diego’s average year-round temperature is about 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so you really can’t go wrong. The temperature does get warmer in the summer and cooler in the winter, but it is never too drastic on either side. September is an ideal time to visit as the crowds have died down with the kids back in school and the beach weather is prime. There are many outdoor festivals and events held in September along with San Diego Restaurant Week. The Del Mar Horse Racing Season is also during this month and hosts free concerts if you enter before the last race.

What’s good to know about San Diego?

San Diego really has something for everyone. Each neighborhood exudes its own vibe and lifestyle creating many unique little villages within the city. Check out the hipster scene at a craft brewery in North Park, enjoy pasta and wine in Little Italy , or indulge in fine dining in La Jolla Village .

One Day in San Diego Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in San Diego.

Start the day with a beachfront brunch & Old World Charm

The Hotel Del Coronado became the first seaside resort on the West Coast in 1888. “The Del”, as the locals call it, is an iconic California landmark. A lavish beachfront brunch is a perfect start to your active day in San Diego.

After brunch, explore the grounds then grab a taxi to the Coronado Ferry Landing. Peruse the shops before catching the ferry across the Coronado Bay to downtown San Diego. Grab your camera for souvenir pictures of the Coronado Bridge and San Diego’s beautiful downtown skyline.

Take a stroll and enjoy the scenery

From here take a stroll through the famous Balboa Park and hit a few museums.

The San Diego Zoo is right next to the park and has been rated the best in the world. If you’d rather enjoy the waterfront scenery, walk along the San Diego Harbor and visit one of the many attractions there including the Star of India, USS Midway or Seaport Village.

Pick an outdoor activity for fun in the sun

Join the locals and keep it active with San Diego’s variety of outdoor activities. Pick your favorite and then hit the nearest beach after. For instance, you could surf some waves or kayak through the caves at La Jolla Shores Beach.

If you’d like to try paddle boarding, Mission Bay is a great option. Bikes are an easy way to get around the Pacific Beach area . They can be easily rented from the shops or even on the boardwalk from a DecoBike kiosk with a credit card.

Go for a swim in the Pacific Ocean

San Diego has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Your day wouldn’t be complete without seeing one. If you have time, go for a swim or at least take a walk on the sand and breathe in some ocean air.

Enjoy a drink while taking in an epic sunset

If you’d like to enjoy the beach a little longer, have a seat at one of the many beachfront restaurants. If you’re ready to start your night then head downtown and check out one of the many rooftop terraces. Mr. A’s is known for one of the best panoramic views in the city and is perfect for a sunset toast. You’ll need to dress the part, as it’s a little fancy, but totally worth it for the view. Top of the Hyatt is also a great place to sip a martini in style as you take in the views from this waterfront hotel bar and lounge.

Head to the Gaslamp District for dinner and nightlife

The Gaslamp District is in downtown San Diego and offers quite a variety of cuisine to choose from. Take a stroll down 5th Avenue to discover the many restaurant options while taking in the downtown energy. Café Sevilla is a great option for tapas with live music and dancing. The Gaslamp has many bars, clubs and lounges to explore after dinner. Note: Alcohol is not served past 2:00 am, so many places will start to close around 1:30 am.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO?

Catamaran Resort Hotel and Spa

3999 Mission Boulevard, Mission Bay

There are plenty of great accommodations to choose from in San Diego. Get the full San Diego experience when you wake up right on the bay and walk to the beach during your stay at  The Catamaran Resort & Spa . It’s a beautiful resort that doesn’t break the bank and its beach location is very central.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Lucky D’s Hostel

615 8th Avenue, San Diego – Centar

If you’re traveling alone and on a budget,  Lucky D’s Hostel  is a great choice. It’s located downtown close to the airport and is also in the heart of San Diego’s nightlife. You can easily walk to all the best restaurants, clubs and pubs from here.

DAY TRIPS FROM SAN DIEGO

There are plenty of reasons to make a day trip from San Diego. Wherever you go, there are plenty of beautiful places that can help you relax and recharge your batteries. Don’t believe it? Here are just a few proofs which show that this really is an incredible area.

Tijuana City

First of all, why not visit Mexico while you’re here? Tijuana is just half an hour’s drive away! Many people do that because they only have shopping on their mind (you will find some great prices here), but the food is excellent and there is plenty of cultures to see and experience. The two places are so close, yet a world apart and it really pays to see that.

Los Angeles

Never been to Los Angeles ? Well, this is your chance! You are only two hours away from this incredible metropolis, so a day trip from San Diego in that direction seems like an excellent choice. Experience the glamour this seat of the entertainment industry has to offer, walk the Santa Monica pier, enjoy a day on Venice Beach or simply go and visit Hollywood . The opportunities are endless.

Baja California

Back to Mexico for this one. Baja California is just south of Tijuana and contains many gems that simply beg to be explored. The picturesque town of Ensenada is one such place, but you can also head to the Rosarito Beach or maybe Puerto Nuevo . No matter where you go, though, the locals will welcome you warmly, plus Puerto Nuevo has some fantastic fish restaurants.

Palm Springs

If you’re looking for a place dedicated solely to tourism, Palm Springs is definitely for you. This resort town has absolutely everything you need to relax: golf courses, spas, a great zoo and so on. Its easy-going lifestyle makes it ideal for a family with children, so if you want something both adults and kid will like you are bound to find it in this attractive little city.

Book a tour now!

Home to Legoland California Resort which features not one, not two, but three theme parks, Carlsbad is a great place to spend a day. Not only that, but it has loads of beautiful sandy beaches and incredible flower fields , so you really can’t go wrong with this one. Apart from surfing, swimming and playing, you can also enjoy the town’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene. Everything you need for a great day trip is right here, less than an hour away from San Diego.

EXTRA TIPS FOR VISITING SAN DIEGO

– When you’re planning your trip here, you may want to consider getting yourself travel insurance . We’re not saying that because this place is not safe (quite the contrary), but many people like to have peace of mind knowing that they will be able to get help no matter what happens. World Nomads understand that feeling perfectly because they are a group of travelers themselves, so you can expect some excellent deals from them and a whole lot of other perks and useful advice. Simply head to their website, type in where you’re heading and they will find the best offer for you. Easy as one, two, three!

– Public transport is not widely used in San Diego. The best option for getting around is to either rent a car or request a driver through apps such as Uber or Lyft.

– Tipping is customary and is not usually included in the bill when dining out. A 20% tip is appreciated for great service.

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in San Diego Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Kamelia Britton

Kamelia Britton is a lifestyle & travel blogger who lives in San Diego, California with her cute little dog, Rascal. She has successfully learned how to hack the system and travel the world on a very small budget, all while keeping a full time job as a nurse. She has visited 20+ countries and is inspiring others to do the same by showing them how it's possible. You can subscribe to her blog at http://www.Hackerette.com for tips & tricks on travel hacking.

This sounds like an awesome day in San Diego. When we visited in January we loved exploring Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.

Having grown up in San Diego, I think I would add a couple more places to the list… the Wild Animal park in North county is a day in its self…so worth seeing. It’s an easy drive to Julian, up in the mountains. It’s a fun little town, known for It’s apple pies, cute shops and country-style wineries. Get up early and watch the sun rise at Torrey Pines beach. Or grab some Chinese food to-go and watch the sunset at Coronado beach. Old Town San Diego is always a favorite way to spend the day…It’s a little SD history, fun shops and the best Mexican food!

Thanks for the extra tips! 🙂

We are from rural Oklahoma and are planning on visiting San Diego in June. What is the best way to get around San Diego to see the bay and the beaches? Also, any suggestions where to stay? We want to go to the zoo and enjoy the beaches. Thank you Carrie

Hi Carrie, we’re happy for you! 🙂 Definitely check out our suggestions on where to stay, we’ve listed some really good places in the article. If you have time, you can use public transportation to get around, depending on the distance.

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One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

Ultimate Guide to 24 Hours in San Diego

June 26, 2023 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

How to Spend One Day in San Diego + Extra Things to Do if You Have More Time

San Diego attracts visitors from all over the world for its beauty, warm weather, world-class beaches and attractions, dynamic craft beer scene, and terrific restaurants. It’s the perfect place to spend the day…or longer than 24 hours!

San Diego has a particularly special place in my heart.

I moved to San Diego right after college and stayed there for over a decade. A job opportunity for my husband moved us up to the Pacific Northwest a few years ago, but San Diego is still my adopted hometown and where I feel most like “me”.

Luckily, we still have wonderful friends who live down there that always open a spare room to us so I visit every chance I get. This also means I’m in a unique spot to put together a San Diego visitor guide with both a local and visitor perspective.

Read on to find out how I recommend you spend the perfect day in San Diego. I’ve also included some recommendations under the “modified itinerary section” below that will help you out if you have extra time in San Diego or want to get off the beaten path a bit more.

More San Diego Trip Inspiration: 15 Best Day Trips from San Diego

When to Visit San Diego

San Diego is known for being the land of sunshine and perfect weather all year ‘round, but as locals will tell you, this isn’t exactly true.

If you love sunshine while being on the coast, you might want to stay away from San Diego during the months of May and June. During those months, the city is prone to “May Gray” and “June Gloom” when the marine layer stretches a cloud of gray over the skies for most of the day.

Keep in mind that even in the summer months, the nights can get a bit chilly by the coast so bring long sleeves to cover up with after the sun goes down.

Book Your Trip Like a Pro!

• Find the most interesting and fun tours with Viator
• Book the best hotels via Booking.com , Expedia , or Agoda
• Find amazing vacation rentals via VRBO
• Compare reviews on TripAdvisor .
• Choose the cheapest and most comfortable hostels on Hostelworld
• Rent cars effortlessly and for low prices on RentalCars
• Find the cheapest flights with CheapOair  
• Choose the most appropriate travel insurance for your trip with VisitorsCoverage
• Bring along a top-rated guidebook
• Find your perfect walking/hiking shoes
• Get a comfortable and convertible daypack

San Diego Top 10 Things to Do

Here’s a quick list of my top 10 things to do in San Diego.

I’ll go into these in more detail below.

• Mission Beach / Belmont Park
• Coronado Island
• Beer Tasting at Local Breweries
• Eat Fish Tacos

La Jolla Cove

• San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
• Balboa Park
• San Diego Zoo
• Best Beaches

Before we get into all those top things to do and see during one day in San Diego, let’s cover some logistics of visiting America’s Finest City.

Accommodation in San Diego

Wondering where to sleep in San Diego? Here are some of my top picks. I’ve either stayed at all these places or have been inside to visit the lounges or restaurants.

San Diego Luxury Hotels

Hotel Del Coronado – With white sides and striking red roofs, the Hotel Del Coronado stands out from the shoreline. Luxurious rooms amidst a historic ambiance. Location: 1500 Orange Avenue Phone: 619-435-6611 Cost: From $279 per night

• Click here for prices and pictures of Hotel Del Coronado.

The US Grant – A palatial hotel built in 1910 with a beautiful lobby that retains the charm from that era. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter. Location: 326 Broadway Phone: 619-232-3121 Cost: From $314 per night

• Click here for prices and pictures of the US Grant.

San Diego Mid-Range Hotels

Tower 23 – A contemporary lifestyle hotel located right next to the boardwalk of PB. Stylish rooms with ocean views. Location: 723 Felspar Street Phone: 858-270-2323

• Click here for prices and pictures of Tower 23.

Hotel Indigo – An upscale city hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter with modern amenities and is pet-friendly. Location: 509 9 th Avenue Phone: 619-727-4000

• Click here for prices and pictures of Hotel Indigo.

Paradise Point – Gorgeous landscaped grounds make up this well-appointed resort located on Mission Bay. Location: 1404 Vacation Road Phone: 858-274-4630

• Click here for prices and pictures of Paradise Point.

La Valencia Hotel – A can’t-miss-it pink hotel nicknamed “the Pink Lady of La Jolla” overlooking the La Jolla Cove with an oasis of a pool area and sumptuous rooms. Location: 1132 Prospect Street Phone: 858-454-0771

• Click here for prices and pictures of La Valencia Hotel.

San Diego Budget Accommodations

Old Town Inn – A comfortable and affordable hotel within walking distance to Old Town and right across the street from a bus and trolley station, making it ideal for someone visiting San Diego without a car. Location: 4444 Pacific Highway Phone: 800-643-3025

• Click here for prices and pictures of Old Town Inn.

Hotel Circle – This cluster of hotels in Mission Valley offers some of the best values for accommodation in San Diego at well-known hotel brands, such as Comfort Inn, Travelodge, Best Western, and more. Many restaurants and shopping opportunities are nearby. Check out www.hotelcircle.net for a list of hotels and rates. Location: Mission Valley off of the 8 Freeway

Getting to San Diego

The San Diego airport was completely renovated a few years ago and is a good introduction to the laidback lifestyle of San Diego. The San Diego Airport is located right near the harbor and is just a 5-10 minute drive from downtown.

Catching a train into the city center from a distant city in California is easy with Amtrak, which has a stop right in downtown San Diego.

It’s Southern California, land of the massive freeways, so of course San Diego is easily accessible by car. Just connect with the 5 or 15 Freeway from wherever you’re coming from, head south, and you’ll find your way into San Diego. (Just keep an eye open for the “last exit before Mexico” signs, you don’t want to spend your one day in San Diego in customs).

San Diego is an itinerary stop for several cruise ships and the harbor of San Diego is conveniently located within easy walking distance to San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, and the Santa Fe Depot from which you can easily hop on public transportation to another part of San Diego.

Getting Around San Diego

The Coaster

The Coaster connects downtown San Diego to the coastal cities of North County San Diego. You can head all the way up to the Coaster’s northern most stop in Oceanside (which is also an Amtrak station) or use it to simply get between downtown and Old Town. The Coaster stops cover three zones and includes the following stops from south to north: San Diego – Santa Fe Depot (downtown), San Diego – Old Town, Sorrento Valley, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad Poinsettia, Carlsbad Village, and Oceanside. Buy tickets at the station before boarding and keep it handy – attendants will come through and check that you have one once onboard.

Also, for those flying into San Diego and staying outside the city center, there is a bus, MTS bus 992, from the airport, which connects with the Santa Fe Depot station.

The Trolley

For getting around the city of San Diego, the trolley is a great option as it extends from Old Town through eastern San Diego (such as to the popular Fashion Valley mall) and down to the San Diego Convention Center. The Trolley is basically an above ground metro system, but has the charm of looking like an old-fashioned trolley from the outside.

There is even a trolley San Diego tour! Don’t miss a wonderful chance to explore San Diego by trolley. Click here to book this fun tour.

Taxis are easy to find in most areas of San Diego, though you may have to wait for one if looking for a cab right when the bars close (at 2 a.m.) in one of San Diego’s prime nightlife districts (such as PB, OB, Gaslamp Quarter, or North Park). Taxis are always metered and ask before getting in if they take credit cards or are cash only. There are also plenty of Uber drivers working in the city.

San Diego’s bus system, part of the Metropolitan Transit System, connects the majority of San Diego that the trains don’t reach. Visit Click here for bus routes and timetables.

San Diego is predominately a driving city.

To get to most of the beaches and other popular sites, you’ll need a rental car, unless you want to take a taxi or bus. Check prices and availability here .

In summer, keep in mind that heavy traffic starts earlier in the afternoon with people coming back from the beach or ditching work early to get to the beach. The 5 Freeway is backed up a large majority of the time.

If you run into traffic, consider taking the scenic Coast Highway – it’s not always faster due to stoplights, but at least you have views of the Pacific while you wait out traffic. Though if short on time in San Diego, try to avoid having to be on freeways for a long period of time during rush hour.

One Day in San Diego Itinerary: How to Have the Perfect 24 Hours

Now for my recommended itinerary for how to spend one day in San Diego, which is set up to give you a taste of the cultural and modern influences of San Diego and what makes the city a popular destination.

A modified itinerary section is included after it for those who may have particular traveling interests with recommendations on how to switch up the day to include them.

Coronado: San Diego’s Beautiful “Island”

One of the most noticeable landmarks of San Diego is the Coronado Bay Bridge, and over that bridge is the “island” city of Coronado, which is home to (debatably) San Diego’s nicest beach and most famous hotel.

When you arrive in Coronado you’ll see signs for the naval base and the Hotel Del Coronado; follow the latter.

The Hotel Del Coronado with its red roofs, which has catered to Hollywood royalty over the years and even has some ghost stories, may be too expensive for most people to stay in, but it warmly welcomes visitors into its grand lobby and bars and restaurants. Sit out on the patio of one of the Hotel Del’s bars and enjoy a cup of coffee or mimosa while taking in the view of the nearly white, pristine sand.

The beach across from the Hotel Del is one of the widest in San Diego County and also the most uncluttered. The wealthy residents of Coronado must like their beach perfect, because I can barely even find a piece of seaweed on its combed sands.

Coronado Quick Tips :

Location: Just west of downtown San Diego across the Coronado Bay Bridge (Highway 75). Hotel Del Address: 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado Parking: The Hotel Del Coronado has valet parking, which can get quite expensive. There is also usually free street parking that can be found on Ocean Boulevard. Short on Time Tips: Start out your day in Coronado early in the morning to get there before the crowds and enjoy views of the gorgeous beaches and the hotel public areas without so many people milling about. Grab a mimosa or coffee and simply enjoy the morning view. Don’t spend more than 90 minutes or so exploring Coronado. There’s much more on the mainland of San Diego to see.

Tour Tip: Explore gorgeous Coronado and learn about its history with this small-group tour that’s under 3 hours.

Old Town San Diego

After getting an early morning view of the beach, soak up the history of San Diego. For that, Old Town is where you want to be. At first glance, Old Town appears to be filled with Mexican restaurants and kitschy souvenir shops. However, amidst the array of tourist-oriented shops, there are some interesting artifacts and historical buildings that can be found, most of which are free though some require a small fee to tour.

Casa de Estudillo

Built in 1825 for a Spanish aristocrat, the Casa de Estudillo became a safe haven for women and children during the American Occupation of 1846. In 1887, a new owner stripped the house of much of its windows, tiles, and other features to sell. In 1910, architect Hazel W. Waterman oversaw its reconstruction to bring it back to its former glory, and today it stands as an excellent example of early Spanish architecture in California. Address: 4000 Mason Street

Mason Street School

Was San Diego’s first one room schoolhouse. Children will enjoy sitting at the desks and seeing various school objects from the 1800s. Address: 3966 Mason Street

McCoy House

Originally built in 1869, the McCoy House was home to San Diego’s first sheriff, James McCoy. Reconstructed in 2000, the McCoy House shows the type of house that wealthier settlers of California built. Address: 4002 Wallace Street

Old Adobe Chapel

This building dates back to the 1830s and the chapel served as the first parochial church in the first parish of California following the secularization of the missions in 1832. Address: 2476 San Diego Avenue

Whaley House

The Whaley House is the oldest brick structure in San Diego, however, these days Whaley House’s main claim to fame derives from the rumors that it is haunted. Tour the house and hear about the supernatural occurrences that have been documented at Whaley House. Address: 2482 San Diego Avenue

Heritage Park

Head to Heritage Park, located right next to Old Town, to see Victorian homes and San Diego’s first synagogue. The park also has an idyllic grassy area. Address: 2454 Heritage Park Row

Mid-Day San Diego Lunch Break: Fish Tacos!

Before leaving Old Town, grab lunch – some of the best Mexican food in all of San Diego is found in Old Town. Order a fish taco if you’ve never had one – it’s a San Diego delicacy. Here are two of Old Town’s most popular Mexican restaurants, both of which I’ve eaten at multiple times and have always enjoyed the food:

Café Coyote – An award-winning Mexican restaurant that has been serving up traditional Mexican dishes for over 20 years. Has an excellent patio for those wishing to eat outdoors. Address: 2461 San Diego Avenue Phone: 619-291-0715

Old Town Mexican Café Restaurant – This popular Mexican restaurant has been around for over 30 years and has also won its fair share of awards and has a large dining room with tasty Mexican food favorites and is the home of the original handmade tortilla makers in Old Town. Address: 2489 San Diego Avenue Phone: 619-297-4330

Tour Tip: Combine Old Town and tacos on the San Diego Old Town Tales, Tacos and Tequila Small Group Tour. Book early, this one tends to sell out!

Mission Beach & Belmont Park: San Diego’s Most Fun Beach

Fun for the whole family can be found at Belmont Park in Mission Beach.

Belmont Park is an amusement park which has been open since 1925. With an old-school wooden roller coaster and other rides plus fair-inspired games and food located right next to the beach, Belmont Park is reminiscent of a bygone era of carnivals and ocean breezes.

Head to the Wave House, a bar and restaurant which features a sand floor and wave simulators where you can watch novices and experts do tricks on surfboards (or fall). You can even try it yourself if you dare.

Or you can rent a surfboard and go try it in the real waves of the Pacific Ocean located right behind Belmont Park. Mission Beach is the type of San Diego beach people go to when they want a scene that looks straight out of the opening sequence from Baywatch.

Short on Time Tip: If short on time and you really want to see a wide range of San Diego, don’t spend more than an hour or two at the beach. If you want more time, well, you’re certainly not the only one as San Diego’s beaches are a major draw for the city – see the modified itinerary section for a list of San Diego’s most popular beaches.

Belmont Park Quick Facts

Location: 3146 Mission Boulevard Cost: It is free to enter Belmont Park, but rides require you to purchase tickets. Phone: 858-488-1549 Parking: A free parking lot is available next to Belmont Park. There is also street parking nearby and parking located along Mission Bay Drive by Mission Bay Park.

Don’t Forget to Pack These Items!

Quick break from the itinerary (the gorgeous, can’t-miss La Jolla Cove is up next!) to call out a few things you should pack for your one day in San Diego. You probably know to bring a swimsuit and good walking shoes, but here are some other items you won’t want to forget.

• Or a cozy blanket poncho like this one for cool nights. The coastal breezes tend to drop the temperature quite suddenly after the sun goes down in San Diego, even in the summer.
• Love this brand.
• You’ll be glad you have one if you want to swim in the ocean for a long period of time, particularly if it’s not July or August.
• There’s not much shade on San Diego beaches — this beach umbrella that also looks kind of like a half tent is really cool!

La Jolla Cove on the North Tip of San Diego

La Jolla is the northernmost neighborhood of San Diego and is located right along the coast.

The beach area just west of La Jolla’s downtown village area is the La Jolla Cove and is one of the most stunning pieces of coastline in all of Southern California.

The La Jolla Cove curves around a bay that is home to leopard sharks, seals, spiny lobster, and many types of fish. If you’re going to snorkel or scuba dive during your time in San Diego, this is the place to do it (see itinerary modifications).

Small patches of sand with large rocks cover most of the coastline of the La Jolla Cove. These rocks are fun for children and adults alike to explore when the tide is out as you can find crabs, octopuses, and mussels caught in the small tide pools that form among the rocks.

Framing the rocks is a walking path, which is also bordered by a large grassy area for much of it; perfect for a picnic on a sunny day or letting the kids run around and get some energy out.

Head south along the walking path and you’ll come to Children’s Beach – named for being shallow and ideal for children…until marine animals took it over. Now children (and adults!) delight in seeing sea lions and seals play in the water and sunbathe on the sand and nearby rocks.

Visitors can also visit a sea cave via land at the Cave Store. This store is located at the north end of the cove and has information and souvenirs about La Jolla and is built around an entrance to a long staircase leading down through the rock to Sunny Jim Cave, which visitors can head down into for a small fee.

Tour Tip: Explore and learn more about La Jolla on this guided tour .

La Jolla Cove Quick Facts

Location: West of Prospect Street in La Jolla. Parking: The closest parking is available on Coast Boulevard which connects with Prospect Street, or you can take Girard Avenue down to it. If parking is full, there is plenty of street parking in La Jolla village along Girard Avenue and Herschel Avenue and their side streets, though some are only one to two hour parking spots (which will be marked by a street sign). There are also pay lots located throughout La Jolla.

Short on Time Tip: If you do one circle loop on Coast Boulevard and around La Jolla Village and can’t find a parking spot, just opt for a pay lot to save time. There is an affordable lot on Coast Boulevard across from the Cave Store. There is also a parking garage right off of Prospect Street by Herschel Avenue and if you buy anything in the shops of the building the parking garage is adjacent to, some or all of your parking can be comped.

San Diego Breweries

San Diego is one of the premier regions for microbreweries, and San Diego breweries are constantly winning awards for their diverse and tasty beer.

After catching the sunset (or before depending on the time of year), head to a brewery to try a flight of local beer before going to dinner. Here are some of the top breweries located within the city of San Diego (the county of San Diego as a whole has many, many more).

Tour Tip: Don’t worry about driving. Instead, take a brewery guided tour that takes you brewery hopping in a fun open-air vehicle.

Ballast Point Brewing and Spirits – Brewery tours are offered daily at at this popular San Diego brewery. There is also a tasting bar which has 27 beers on tap and serves up tasters or pints. As the two original owners (it was sold to Constellation Brands for $1 billion in 2015) love fishing along with beer, you’ll find beers by the name of Longfin Lager and Black Marlin on tap – both of which are great choices for a drink. Ballast Point also makes one of my absolute favorite beers: the Grapefruit Sculpin. Location: 10051 Old Grove Road Phone: 858-695-2739 AleSmith Brewing Company – With their award-winning, hand-forged ales, AleSmith Brewing Company has developed a devout following of fans. Try the Belgian-style Grand Cru or the malty, dark Speedway Stout in the tasting room. Location: 9366 Cabot Drive Phone: 858-549-9888

Green Flash – Featuring a tasting room and beer garden, the acclaimed brewery, Green Flash, is an excellent place to grab a pint. The tasting room serves up their pilsners, porters, and pale ales in a fun setting. The brewery also offers tours for $5 per person; they fill up quickly so call to book in advance. Location: 6550 Mira Mesa Boulevard Phone: 858-622-0085

Pizza Port – This local brewery chain has several locations in San Diego County. If staying right in San Diego, head to the one in Ocean Beach (OB), a laidback beach community located north of Mission Beach. Grab a pitcher of the popular Shark Bite Red Ale and take a seat on one of the long benches. The big tables and bench seating setup also makes this a nice brewery to bring kids to. Plus, the pizza’s awesomely good. Location: 1956 Bacon Street Phone: 619-224-4700

For True Diehard Beer Lovers: Stone Brewing Company – Hands down in my opinion, the most impressive brewery (and some argue, the brewery with the best beer) is Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens in Escondido, a city located in the northeast region of San Diego County. It’s a drive, though, from San Diego. If you time your drive when there’s no traffic, it takes about 30 minutes to get there from San Diego. Upon arriving at Stone Brewing, you’ll be met with a gorgeous beer garden that consists of walking trails, koi ponds, and trees and other greenery. The inside is also impressive with views of the steel brewing barrels, which you can arrange a tour to see up close during your time there. Take advantage of their many beers on tap, of which the Stone Pale Ale (my favorite!), Stone IPA, and Arrogant Bastard Ale are popular local favorites. The brewery also has a full restaurant with many organic and farm to table menu options. For dessert, try the “beer float” variation of a root beer float. Location: 1999 Citracado Parkway, Escondido Phone: 760-294-7866

Also, though I don’t think it’s quite as unique of a space, Stone also has a restaurant with a large outdoor bar area in the Liberty Station center, which is located within San Diego city limits.

Itinerary Modifications (or What to Do if You Have Extra Days in San Diego)

Is there something else you want to see or do in San Diego? Here are some other great options based off of common traveling interests, with recommendations on what to switch out from the previous recommended itinerary.

San Diego Beach Bum Itinerary Modification

Want to nix some of the sites and just be a beach bum during your day in San Diego? No one will blame you. The beaches of San Diego are ideal for lounging around on all day and playing in the waves.

Keep in mind that the water is too cold for most people outside the months of July through September so you may want to rent a wetsuit if planning on frolicking in the ocean.

Here is my list of San Diego’s best beaches:

Coronado Beach

As I mentioned earlier, this beach is pristine, posh, and perfectly positioned for gorgeous views of both land and sea.

Pacific Beach

Party central for beach-goers with beachside bars, music usually being blared, and beach games being played on the sand. Also, great waves for boogie boarding. The coast lining the northern part of PB is great for surfing, and is zoned to keep out swimmers and boogie boarders, making it a favorite spot of local surfers.

Mission Beach

With its location next to Belmont Park, this is a fun beach for families, and has a great boardwalk in front of the beach.

Windansea Beach

A cragged piece of beach with outstretches of rock breaking up soft, clean sand in southern La Jolla.

Small pockets of sand surrounded by tall pieces of rock give a different type of beach ambiance than most of San Diego’s long, wide open beaches.

La Jolla Shores

A wide stretch of beach in northern La Jolla with many water sports available for rent.

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Depending on how long you want to stay at the beach, skip the morning spent in Coronado and instead start your day in Old Town. Then bypass Belmont Park (unless the beach you’re heading to is Mission Beach) and spend your late morning and afternoon at the beach. Grab a pint of local beer at one of the many bars in San Diego that carries them instead of visiting one of the breweries, and then head to La Jolla for the sunset.

Hiking Enthusiasts Itinerary Modification

If you enjoy hiking, here is the place you won’t want to miss doing so in San Diego.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Framed by the ocean to the west and heavily wooded, a hike through Torrey Pines State Reserve feels like you’re a world away and not just a couple miles from a big city.

With ocean views from nearly every part of the trail system winding through a mesa, you can hike up and down the steep side of the park, getting in a good workout and possibly seeing wildlife along the way. There is no place on the reserve to buy drinks or food so bring plenty of water and a snack to keep your energy level up on your hike.

Location: 126000 North Torrey Pines Road Phone: 858-755-2063 Hours: Daily, 7:15 a.m. – Sunset. The Sunset time will be posted upon entering the park (varies between 5 p.m. in winter to 8 p.m. in summer depending on the time of year). Cost: There is a vehicle charge for Torrey Pines State Reserve and parking lots are located at the base of the reserve and at the top of the mesa. (Opt for the lot on the top as it’s faster access to the best trails.)

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Skip Belmont Park and Mission Beach and instead get your excitement and beach views from your hike.

Golf Course Itinerary Modification

Love to golf? Here are two memorable places to do so in San Diego.

Torrey Pines Golf Course

If you’re a golf addict who gets thrills out of playing at the best courses, you may not want to pass up your chance to play at a top one located right in La Jolla. The Torrey Pines golf course has been used for many high profile golf tournaments, including the PGA Tour and U.S. Open, and the best players in the world have hit balls on the greens of Torrey Pines. Plus, the golf course has gorgeous views of the San Diego coastline.

You have two course options when golfing at Torrey Pines – the North Course and the South Course, the latter of which is considered to be more challenging and is where the epic 2008 U.S. Open was played. Location: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road Phone: 877-581-7171 Tee Times: A reservation is a must – walk-ons are very hard to come by at Torrey Pines.

Coronado Golf Course

If you love to golf, but aren’t sure Torrey Pines is the right fit for you due to the cost or course difficulty, a cheaper and less challenging golfing option is the Coronado Golf Course. The holes are less planned out and elaborate than Torrey Pines, but it still has great San Diego views. Location: 2000 Visalia Row Phone: 619-435-3121

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Skip spending your morning at the beaches of Coronado and instead head to the golf course of Coronado or of Torrey Pines. Head to Old Town afterwards, and know that golfing may mean you have less time at the beach in the afternoon.

Scuba/Snorkeling Itinerary Modification

With an assortment of fish, shellfish, and reef sharks, plus a kelp forest, the La Jolla Cove is a prime place to scuba dive or snorkel, either on your own or with a guide. Plus, since it’s a beach dive, it’s usually fairly affordable to dive in the Cove since a boat isn’t needed to get to the dive spot.

Scuba San Diego – This outfit offers scuba diving in the La Jolla Cove with an expert guide. The dive includes equipment. They also offer a snorkel excursion at 10 a.m. every day that includes equipment and a guide. Phone: 619-260-1880

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Since scuba diving is typically best in the morning, bypass Coronado. If you really want to see Coronado, head there instead of Belmont Park and Mission Beach in the afternoon.

Kayaking Itinerary Modification

San Diego has many spots for kayaking, but two of the best ones are at La Jolla Shores and Mission Bay. There are a number of companies who offer kayak tours and rentals, but here are a couple options I’ve used:

La Jolla Shores Kayaking

Kayaking here is great for nature and animal lovers. You’re bound to see sea lions and seals, and they may even swim right underneath your kayak. There are also caves that can be kayaked into with a guide, an excursion that costs extra but is worth it. A good outfitter option:

La Jolla Kayak : Offers both kayaking tours starting from $39, and kayak rentals starting from $30. Location: 2199 Avenida de la Playa Phone: 858-459-1114

Mission Bay Kayaking

See stunning views of San Diego and wildlife from the calm, relaxing waters of Mission Bay. A great place for beginners to try kayaking. A good outfitter option:

Aqua Adventures: Located right on Mission Bay with an adjacent dock and ample parking, Aqua Adventures ensures you’ll get in and out fast with more time in the water. Which is ideal for someone who is short on time in San Diego. Kayak rentals start from $16.50 for up to 1 ½ hours. Location: 1548 Quivira Way Phone: 619-523-9577

More Kayak Tours: Staying more inland? Easily book a kayak exploring tour here (no experience required!)

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Shorten your time at the beach and get your fun in the sun via kayaking instead. If kayaking at Mission Bay, you’ll still have time to head to Mission Beach for a little while, and if kayaking in La Jolla, head to La Jolla Shores or Windansea Beach after.

Zoo Lovers Itinerary Modification

You can’t go to San Diego without at least considering going to the San Diego Zoo. The San Diego Zoo consistently makes the top 10 lists for zoos around the world and is a greenery-filled masterpiece of a zoo.

The animals’ enclosures are made to be as close to their natural habitat as possible and as the zoo is so big, there are many, many different types of animals to see.

The scale of the zoo is also why this is a modified itinerary recommendation; it’s very possible to spend the whole day at the zoo and if you only have one day in San Diego that may not be how you want to spend your time.

—> Get your 1-day pass ticket to San Diego Zoo here .

Location: 2920 Zoo Drive Phone: 619-231-1515

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: For those who want to make visiting the San Diego Zoo a priority, get there as early in the day as possible and then plan on leaving mid-afternoon to check out La Jolla Cove or another beach before sunset.

Boaters Itinerary Modification

If you love sailing or marina life, head to Shelter Island, San Diego’s most nautical neighborhood. I wrote up a comprehensive guide to Shelter Island San Diego here .

Read More: Hidden Gems in San Diego You Don’t Want to Miss

Museum Mavens Itinerary Modification

USS Midway Museum : A unique museum experience in San Diego is the USS Midway. You’ll get the chance to walk around a former naval ship that’s now permanently docked in San Diego harbor. Learn about how these types of ships operate and more about the military past of the USS Midway while walking around it. If you love history, it’s easily one of the neatest things to do during your day in San Diego.

Tour Tip: This is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego, so if you’re short on time, I highly recommend getting this skip-the-line ticket for the USS Midway Museum.

Location: 910 N Harbor Dr. Phone: 619-544-9600

Balboa Park – This large park is home to San Diego’s best museums. Marvel at physics in the San Diego Air and Space Museum, find out more about San Diego’s history at the San Diego History Center, and learn about San Diego’s art scene at the San Diego Art Institute. Or visit one of the over a dozen other museums onsite in Balboa Park. Location: 1549 El Prado (Balboa Park Visitors Center) Phone: 619-239-0512 (Balboa Park Visitors Center) Admission and Hours: Prices and hours vary depending on the museum; visit www.balboapark.org for a breakdown of museums.

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Get your San Diego history fill here instead of Old Town, if you still want time at the beach. If you can live without lounging on the beach for a couple of hours during your time in San Diego, head to Balboa Park or the USS Midway after Old Town instead of Mission Beach.

Shopaholics Itinerary Modification

Want to do some retail therapy while in San Diego? Here are the best places to go shopping in San Diego.

Read More: Best Girls Getaway Spots in San Diego

Fashion Valley

A huge shopping mall located in Mission Valley with favorites such as J.Crew and designer meccas like Louis Vuitton. Address: 7007 Friars Road

The area next to La Jolla Cove is full of boutiques with high-end clothing, plus some unique furniture and art stores. Address: The area east of Prospect Street

Seaport Village

A quaint little area on the harbor that features an array of souvenir shops, clothing stores, and restaurants. Address: 849 W Harbor Drive

Westfield Horton Plaza

A large shopping mall located in downtown San Diego with outdoor walkways and is also adjacent to an ice skating rink. Address: 324 Horton Plaza

Short on Time Tip – What to Switch Out: Head to the shops instead of the brewery. Many of the shopping areas are located adjacent to restaurants and bars that serve local breweries if you still want to try one on tap before leaving San Diego.

Good Eats in San Diego

Access to amazing cuisine is one of the things I miss most about living in San Diego. Here are some of my favorite places to eat at when I’m in San Diego.

Always Popular San Diego Favorites

Don’t be surprised if you’re greeted with a double cheek kiss at this Italian run eatery in PB serving up some of the best Italian food in San Diego. It’s hard to pick only one, but this just may be my favorite restaurant in San Diego. Location: 1932 Balboa Avenue Phone: 858-272-2702

Indigo Grill

Inventive cuisine that mixes in a variety of tastes and seasonings in a lively, trendy setting. Location: 1536 India Street Phone: 619-234-6802

Alexander’s on 30 th

A nearly all-white interior gives a romantic vibe to this restaurant in North Park and the upscale twist on comfort foods offers a great dining experience. Location: 3391 30 th Street Phone: 619-281-2539

Urban Solace

Gourmet American comfort food such as macaroni and cheese and pot pie is served alongside entrees like duck and pork cheeks at this foodie haven located in North Park. Location: 3823 30 th Street Phone: 619-295-6464

OB Noodle House

A funky restaurant in OB serving up delicious Asian food – try the pho. Location: 2218 Cable Street Phone: 619-450-6868

Paying homage to the best seafood and farm ingredients, downtown Searsucker is located in a warehouse-style building and is led by celebrity chef Brian Malarkey. Searsucker also has a location in the small coastal city of Del Mar, just north of San Diego. Location: 611 5 th Avenue Phone: 619-233-7327

Island Prime / C Level

Located on stilts over the San Diego Bay, the restaurant of Island Prime and its adjacent C-Level lounge serve up delicious seafood and steaks with great views of San Diego and Coronado. Location: 880 Harbor Island Drive Phone: 619-298-6802

Cucina Urbana

Italian food is taken to new levels at Cucina Urbana, a Banker’s Hill restaurant that manages to be hip and traditional all at the same time. Location: 505 Laurel Street Phone: 619-239-2222  

Best Breakfast/Brunch  Spots in San Diego

The Mad Beet 

Two words: Acai Bowl. Location:  933 Garnet Ave Phone:  858-529-5129

I haven’t eaten here yet, but I hear this is the cool new place for brunch in San Diego. Location: 967 Garnet Ave Phone: 858-230-6567

World Famous

Excellent views of the ocean and good breakfast eats, especially the eggs Benedict. Location: 711 Pacific Beach Dr Phone:  858-272-3100

Fine Dining Eats in San Diego

George’s at the Cove

Some of the best fine dining in San Diego can be found in George’s at the Cove California Modern dining room, plus one of the best ocean front patios at their Ocean Terrace bistro with a view of La Jolla’s cove. Location: 1250 Prospect Street Phone: 858-454-4244

Bertrand at Mr. A’s

A top-floor restaurant in a high-rise building with an excellent view of the San Diego skyline – and most importantly, stellar modern American food. (Still somehow haven’t eaten here, but I have only heard good things!) Location: 2550 5 th Avenue Phone: 619-239-1379

Marine Room

This La Jolla restaurant is known as much for its proximity to the ocean (in high tide, ocean waves hit the dining room windows — book your reservation well in advance for these dates) as its gourmet cuisine. Location: 2000 Spindrift Drive Phone: 858-459-7222

Cheap Eats in San Diego (But Delicious!)

Rocky’s Crown Pub

Always a contender and often the winner in ongoing debates of the best burger joint in San Diego. (It’s my favorite which is why it’s on the list over the other fave: Hodad’s 😉 Rocky’s only serves burgers and fries, plus beer and wine, and is cash only. Location: 3786 Ingraham Street Phone: 858-273-9140

South Beach Bar & Grille

A small dive bar located in OB with some of the best fish tacos in San Diego. Get there early or expect to be waiting for a table for a while. Location: 5059 Newport Avenue #104 Phone: 619-226-4577

Pizzeria Bruno Napoletano

Traditional Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza, located in North Park. Also serves up beer and wine. Location: 4207 Park Boulevard Phone: 619-260-1311

A taco shop located in University Heights serving up some of the best fast Mexican food around (no small feat in San Diego). If you’ve never tried Carne Asada fries, get them here. Location: 4642 Park Boulevard Phone: 619-692-1652

Offers affordable and delicious hand-crafted sushi and other Japanese cuisine favorites in three different San Diego locations with hip décor, including one located downtown. Location / Phone: 228 W. Washington Street / 619-231-9597; 135 Broadway / 619-233-3072; 7986 Armour Street / 858-292-5515

Short on Time Tip: Make a reservation at these restaurants if possible to avoid having to wait for (or missing out on) a table.  

San Diego Nightlife

Now that I’m a frazzled mom, I’m glad I took advantage of the San Diego night scene back when I still had the energy to go out drinking and dancing until two in the morning. Here are some classics, plus a few new ones I had to get input about from my friends who are still “cool”. 😉

Pacific Beach (PB)

Pacific Beach, known as PB by locals, is party central with a laidback, beach vibe. Bars stretch alongside either side of busy Garnet Street and along Mission Boulevard by the coast. Any night of the week – and pretty much any time of day – you’ll find coeds and the young at heart dancing the night away or enjoying drinks on patios. So grab your flipflops and enjoy the beach party life. Here are some favorite bars of mine in PB:

BeachWood – A beach vibe with a retractable roof and ocean views. Also has outdoor seating during the day on the roof-top terrace. Address: 4190 Mission Boulevard

Tower 23 – An outdoor patio right on the boardwalk and stylish décor makes this a sophisticated place to grab a few drinks in PB, with great ocean views. Address: 723 Felspar Street

Turquoise Bar – Located in quieter North PB, Turquoise Bar has a Spanish flair and serves up tapas with Sangria and other drinks. Often has live music. Address: 873 Turquoise Street

Johnny V’s – A more upscale dance club with a garden-style area that feels like an outdoor courtyard and a large central bar. Address: 945 Garnet Avenue

Bub’s Dive Bar – A popular laidback bar that has baskets of peanuts on tables and peanut shells covering the ground. Along with its fun and lively setting, Bubs also attracts a loyal patronage by having some of the best bar food in PB – try the Archie wings or tater tot nachos. My husband and I spent a ton of time here when we first started dating so it will always hold a special place in my nightlife memories! Address: 1030 Garnet Avenue

Gaslamp Quarter

In the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, keep the flip-flops packed and bring out your best downtown shoes. The Gaslamp Quarter covers 16 ½ blocks and is the epicenter of downtown San Diego’s shopping, dining, and nightlife. The Gaslamp Quarter gets its name from the faux gas lamps erected in the area during a revamp to give it a more Victorian feel in the 1970s, a much-needed facelift after nearly a century of serving as a seedy brothel zone. Today, it’s hard to believe that the Gaslamp Quarter wasn’t always as classy and trendy as it is now. This vibe also makes it an excellent place to spend your evening and late night hours, with many clubs and bars that are prime for socializing and dancing, and even some singing.

Maloney’s Tavern – A basement club with a pub feel and pool tables. Address: 777 5 th Avenue

Shouthouse – A dueling piano bar with good food and drinks and a raucous, fun atmosphere. Address: 655 4 th Avenue

House of Blues – Music lovers should check which bands are playing here the night you’re in San Diego. The hip venue gets some great bands. Address: 1055 5 th Avenue

Whiskey Girl – Dance the night away once the sun goes down in a large room that is more laidback than some of the other downtown dance clubs, with a Karaoke downstairs in the lounge. Address: 702 5 th Avenue

Vin de Syrah – A posh, garden-inspired wine bar that turns into a dance club in the late night hours. Oh, and be careful with the door. You’ll understand once you get there. Address: 901 5 th Avenue

Basic – This place serves up some of the best pizza in town during the day and evening; later it turns into a popular dance club. Address: 410 4 th Avenue

Noble Experiment – A prohibition-style speakeasy with excellent drinks in a lounge setting with skull-covered walls. Reservations needed. Address: 777 G Street

Top of the Hyatt – The name tells it all. This bar is located at the top of the Hyatt hotel and offers 360˚ panoramic views in a sumptuous setting. I spent a fun Fourth of July here once – it’s a very cool place from which to watch the fireworks. Address: 1 Market Place

North Park / South Park / University Heights

Those who like hitting the latest up and coming hot spots will love North Park and its neighboring communities of South Park and University Heights. Attracting students, urban professionals, hipsters, and beach bums alike, the mix of restaurants and bars is eclectic, fun, and hip, and often with a focus on local businesses and agriculture.

Small Bar – This “small” bar in University Heights packs a big punch with urban decor and is popular for their excellent mules. Try the Small Bar Elephant Mule. Location: 4628 Park Boulevard

Hamilton’s Tavern – This dive bar in South Park has one of the most extensive craft beer menus on tap in San Diego. Location: 1521 30 th Street

Tiger! Tiger! – Great local beer and grub in a hipster setting in North Park with communal tables and dark wood accents. Location: 3025 El Cajon Boulevard

Mosaic Wine Bar – A stylish bar in North Park with an excellent and eclectic wine list from around the world. Location: 3422 30 th Street

Splash Wine Lounge – A unique wine bar in North Park that has self-serve wine bottles arrayed around the bar offering 1 oz. servings of wine. You can try a few tastings before selecting a glass to sip on for the night or just keep tasting new ones! Location: 3043 University Avenue

Have a Fun Day in Gorgeous San Diego!

So there you have it! My ultimate guide to San Diego. Did I miss your favorite thing to see, do, or eat in San Diego? Let me know in the comments below. 🙂

Read More: Continuing your California vacation? Check out our guides on San Francisco and Santa Barbara . Plus, read about the 1 0 best small cities in California , the most romantic destinations in California , and the best girl getaways in California !

Found this article helpful? Pin to read again later!

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

December 21, 2017 at

Oh you so should! There are so many great things for kids to do while there. This post was just for things to do in the city limits, but there are even more in North County San Diego like the Safari Park and Legoland.

Me too! 🙂 Could use some sunshine right now.

There is so much to do there. It’s one of the things I love about San Diego. Glad you got some ideas for your next trip there from the post!

Fall is a great time to go! The weather and water are still warm, but the summer crowds are gone. 🙂

Hope you have a wonderful time!

December 18, 2017 at

Love your modification options – it’s a great post! I’ve been to San Diego once too and loved it! Really enjoyed walking through Old Town and Balboa Park. The lobster tacos at the pier (don’t remember the name) were extremely delicious too!!

Super! Saving this post, as going to Cali in January 🙂

December 17, 2017 at

wow this is so comprehensive! I love San Diego… but I haven’t been in a long time. I love Cornado Beach and the food. And the weather (although I didnt realize that about May and June) I think I have only been in the fall and winter!

I love flying down to San Diego from Central California. It’s such a great city to explore. I’ve only done a fraction of the things on the list so I’m excited to try out your suggestions next time I make a trip.

Great post! I love hiking in Torrey Pines when I visit! I wish I could be in San Diego right now!

This is such a fantastic guide! We visited San Diego with our eldest son when he was 18-months old, and we absolutely loved it! This post really makes me want to go back again now he said a bit older and our youngest son is about that same age – there’s definitely stuff we missed!

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First Timer Trips to San Diego

Special 1-day itinerary highlights top attractions.

To help you make the most of a first-time visit to San Diego, we've developed a special daylong itinerary highlighting some of the city's top attractions.

Must-See Experiences for a San Diego Newcomer

First-time visitors to San Diego have a dazzling array of choices to make. Between the natural beauty of the beaches, emerald parks, savvy shopping, dining adventures and a bustling nightlife, there's a world of possibilities. To help you make the most of a first-time visit, we've developed a special daylong itinerary highlighting some of the city's top attractions. You'll start your day at the San Diego Zoo, rightfully known as the finest zoological collection in the world. Next, it's on to Coronado Island for an afternoon of sun and sightseeing. In the evening, San Diego's vibrant downtown scene beckons.

Arrive at the San Diego Zoo  when it opens at 9 a.m. so you’ll have plenty of time to explore. The park is home to more than 4,000 animals on some 100 lushly planted acres, so the best way to get your bearings is with a narrated tour on a double-decker bus. Your ticket is also good for an express Kangaroo Bus that makes stops throughout the Zoo, so you can hop on and off at various points. Another way to get a fantastic (and literal) overview of the Zoo is on the Skyfari aerial tram. Wandering the park, you’ll discover the Polar Bear Plunge and the hippos at the Urban Jungle (both enclosures offer underwater vantage points); the Monkey Trails exhibit, home to many endangered species; the Elephant Odyssey, where you can see these magnificent animals while exploring prehistoric fossil evidence and extinction causes; and Koalafornia, featuring the largest collection of cuddly eucalyptus-eaters outside of Australia. For families, the Wildlife Explorers Basecamp is an amazing 3.2-acre adventure zone that combines inventive play areas with up-close wildlife encounters and even a splash zone. The Zoo is open daily with extended hours during the summer.  

Adjacent to the Zoo is Balboa Park , one of San Diego's most beloved treasures. Known as the "Smithsonian of the West," Balboa Park is the largest cultural park in America and features 18 museums as well as performing arts venues, beautiful gardens, restaurants, organ concerts and a host of special events. Take a stroll down the main El Prado promenade, enjoy the gorgeous 1915 Spanish Colonial-revival style architecture and grab a bite to eat at one of the many purveyors in the park.  

From Balboa Park, it's an easy drive to La Jolla , the "Jewel of San Diego."   With a dramatic coastline boasting incredible views and wide sweeping beaches, La Jolla is consistently voted one of the most popular beach destinations in California. Spend the afternoon learning to surf, or kayaking, snorkeling, riding a stand-up paddleboard or just playing in the waves. If you're more interested in sightseeing, view the seal colony from above La Jolla Cove or the Children's Pool, spend a few hours at  Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institute of Oceanography  or take an ocean-view hike at  Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . B e sure to keep an eye out for migrating whales off the coast as they travel to and from Baja California. La Jolla is also an excellent place to shop for souvenirs and enjoy lunch with offerings from casual to fine dining.

After an afternoon of sun and sea, explore the vibrancy of San Diego's Downtown . Depending on your interests, you can shop, stroll, dine, or dance into the night, and — if you're in town for baseball season — even catch a San Diego Padres  game at beautiful Petco Park , deemed the Best Ballpark in America by USA Today.

Home to art galleries, boutiques, coffeehouses, neighborhood bars, swanky nightclubs and restaurants of every stripe, the Gaslamp Quarter is San Diego nightlife  central and offers something for every budget. Dining ranges from family-style restaurants and upscale steakhouses to Italian trattorias, tapas bars, Asian eateries and more. Several clubs and restaurants host live music (the  House of Blues has a venue here), while others feature DJs, televised sports or simply the buzz of lively conversations.

Book a trip today  and make your first visit to San Diego a memorable one! Beaches, parks, countless shopping and dining options, and a buzzing nightlife scene, what more could you ask for!

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Fans of horror, the supernatural and mystery delight — San Diego is home to a number of haunting experiences guaranteed to give you a scare! From historic haunts rich with mystery and rumors of paranormal activity to mile-long fright walks complete with chainsaw-wielding maniacs, San Diego is a haven for spots guaranteed to frighten.

Awesome Attractions for the Whole Family

San Diego is well-known for world-class attractions that are a haven for younger kids and teenagers, who might even be surprised by how much they can crank up the fun.

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Save up to 40% at the Best Attractions

Visit San Diego’s top attractions and save up to 40% on combined admission. See your choice of SeaWorld® San Diego, LEGOLAND® California, or both. Plus, get admission to 3 of the following attractions: San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, USS Midway Museum, City Cruises and Old Town Trolley Tours.

Explore San Diego with Go City

Discover 55+ top San Diego attractions and save up to 45% with Go City. Choose a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7-day All Inclusive Pass and meet the animals at San Diego Zoo, spend the day at SeaWorld®, explore the impressive USS Midway, cruise the bay with Speedboat Adventures, and more!

Visit GoCity.com to choose the pass that's perfect for you.

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A Jam-Packed Itinerary for San Diego in One Day

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As an LA native, I’ve visited San Diego more times than I can count – sometimes for a weekend, but even just for one day. And you really can do a lot in just one day in San Diego.

San Diego is a top destination in Southern California with near perfect weather, pristine coastline, big family attractions, local charm, and some of the best Mexican food and seafood! This itinerary for San Diego in one day covers all the best the city has to offer so you can get the most out of your short time there.

So, whether you’re visiting on a day trip from Los Angeles , have some time to kill on a layover , or stopping by on a bigger California road trip, let’s dive in!

Looking for a quick version?

Don’t worry, I get it, you’re a busy traveler, you. To help, I’ve consolidated this itinerary in a free handy-dandy download so you can get it straight to your phone. Just tell me where to send it!

When’s the best time to visit San Diego?

If you’re looking for the best weather with the fewest crowds, March through May and September through November are the best times to visit San Diego. You’ll avoid the summer crowds, but because San Diego is a coastal city, it doesn’t get too hot.

For the cheapest trip, low season is considered November through February. It can get chillier during the winter months so pack accordingly.

And a final note when planning your trip to San Diego, be sure to check the event calendar for the conference center. It hosts huge events like Comic Con every year bringing in thousands of visitors to San Diego, which drives up hotel prices.

Related read >> Top places to visit in summer in the US

How to Get to San Diego

If you’re flying, San Diego has a major international airport (SAN for short) that’s in a central location, just north of Little Italy.

You can reach San Diego from these locations by car:

• Los Angeles – 2.5 hours
• Joshua Tree National Park – 3 hours
• Las Vegas – 5 hours
• Phoenix – 5.5 hours
• San Francisco – 8 hours

Where to Stay in San Diego

While there are a number of beautiful areas in San Diego, for this itinerary, you’ll want to be in the most central locations so you can make the most of your one day.

I recommend a hotel along the marina, which feel more like luxury stays. They are all connected along the water by a gorgeous walking path. Personally, I’ve loved the Marriott Marquis and the Manchester Grand Hyatt .

Another option is to stay near the Gaslamp Quarter. You’ll be visiting this area in this itinerary and parking around here can be tricky so if you stay nearby, you can walk! This can be great too if you plan to capitalize on the nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter.

I really loved my stay at the historic Horton Grand Hotel , which had a picturesque courtyard and spacious rooms (mine even had a fireplace!). This is the most budget-friendly option on the list.

I’ve also enjoyed a stay at Kona Kai Resort & Spa , which is a bit more removed from the action on Shelter Island. This is a nice option if you want to feel like you’re having a more remote beach getaway. I would choose this option if you’re turning this trip into a longer weekend getaway. The biking is great in this area as well!

The Best Way to Get Around

Because you only have one day in San Diego, it’s easiest to have a car. You can rent one from the airport or around the city and it will only cost you around $25 for the day.

If you really want to stick to public transportation, you can. However, your options for your itinerary become limited this way especially if you’re spending too much precious time waiting on buses. Public transportation does travel to everywhere on this itinerary though, including the more remote stop, Cabrillo National Monument.

The public transportation is called MTS (Metropolitan Transit System) and consists of buses and trolleys. Fares are $2.50 for a one way ticket or $6 for a day pass.

One Day in San Diego Itinerary Map

How to Spend One Day in San Diego

Early morning: breakfast at cafe 222.

There is only one way to start your morning in San Diego and that’s with some of the best waffles ever at Café 222 . Seriously, it’s not just me. Café 222 has been hailed as a top breakfast spot and praised for their waffles in a number of magazines and news outlets.

The café is cozy and quirky with chandeliers made from teacups and silverware, with fried eggs painted on the floor. You’ll want to try their iconic pumpkin or corn waffles. I’ve been coming here for 20+ years and can confidently say, they’re both worth a trip to San Diego alone.

Yes, I am drooling through the screen…thanks for checking .

I can also recommend the huevos rancheros as well. And if you’re thinking, “why didn’t you get waffles this time?”, it’s because I visited Cafe 222 every day for 4 days in a row during a conference trip okay…so nosey 😜.

Late morning: enjoy a piece of all Balboa Park offers

For the first activity of the day, head to Balboa Park, a 1200+ acre public park full of stunning architecture and plantlife with 21+ museums and attractions!

You can spend a whole day exploring Balboa Park, but since there’s even more to see in San Diego, I recommend picking one or two museums or gardens to explore. I would go with the Air and Space Museum, Fleet Science Center, the Automotive Museum, and/or the Japanese Friendship Garden…but remember, I’m biased toward science sites !

They also have art, photography, and anthropology museums.

If you are visiting with kids, consider the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. It’s sort of like a mini Epcot (in Walt Disney World ) with small cottages representing different countries and cultures from around the world.

Note that while Balboa Park is free to visit, some museums have individual admissions.

Lunch: a delish choose your own taco shop adventure

You can’t visit San Diego without having tacos. I’m pretty sure it’s a law. There are SO MANY fantastic taco shops in the city so here are a few recommendations:

• Tacos El Gordo – a local favorite that has become so popular they’ve expanded to Las Vegas !
• Las Cuatro Milpas – a classic spot open for 90 years! (bring cash)
• Roberto’s – many locations, all delicious
• Lucha Libre – photogenic interiors, the California burrito was invented here

Afternoon: explore the rugged coast at Cabrillo National Monument

Next on our itinerary is to get a little taste of the coast. San Diego has some great beaches, but even better cliffs with flourishing marine life.

Check out Cabrillo National Monument (pronounced cahb-ree-oh) run by the National Park Service ( yes, that means your America the Beautiful Pass works here 🙌).

Named after Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on the West Coast in 1542, there is plenty to explore here.

You’ll see the Old Point Loma Lighthouse, which has an interesting history. In short, it was put into service in 1855 and after 36 years in operation, it was closed due to its high elevation, which caused its light to be obscured by fog and clouds. It was used instead as a radio tower, visitor center, tea house, and military post. After many years, it was assumed by the National Park Service.

There are two trails to explore – the Coastal Trail (1 mile round trip) and Bayside Trail (2.5 miles round trip). Both provide views of the cliffs, ocean, and local plantlife including spring wildflowers.

Depending on the tide, you can explore the Point Loma Tidepools at the base of the cliffs. Check the tide easily and for free with the app Tide Times . You want to visit at lower tide and note that just because it’s low when you arrive, doesn’t mean that it won’t start to creep up, so plan accordingly (and safely).

At the tidepools, during low tide you can climb down pretty easily to see starfish, crabs, anemones, and if you’re lucky dolphins and sea lions in the ocean nearby. And of course, there will be lots of birds to spot flying overhead.

If the tide isn’t favorable for climbing down, you can switch this activity with your Balboa Park morning so that you visit Cabrillo National Monument in the morning instead. That might give you better tidepool exploring conditions. Then, just visit Balboa Park in the afternoon!

Alternatively, visit La Jolla Cove (pronounced La-HOY-a) to try to see the sea lions that congregate there! It’s free to visit and you can even swim and snorkel if you want a little beach break in your day. Address for GPS navigation: 1100 Coast Blvd., La Jolla, CA.

Dinner: a food tour of San Diego’s best

For dinner, I’d recommend one of two food tours. The reason to do a food tour instead of a traditional sit down restaurant dinner is because San Diego is truly one of the top foodie cities in the US so if you can sample as much as possible in your day trip, you definitely should! Plus, I love a good food tour (I’ve done incredible ones in New Orleans and Paris ) because you get to learn history while eating…is there a better way?

First you can take a food tour of Little Italy where you’ll try authentic pasta, calamari, wine, and gelato while learning about the area’s history.

Alternatively, opt for a food tour in the Gaslamp Quarter. I’d choose from either of these:

• Brothels, Bites, and Booze Tour
• Tequila, Tacos, and Tombstones Tour

Both of these include 3 food tasting samples and alcohol, plus a guided tour to learn the history of the Gaslamp Quarter, just from two different perspectives – the seedy side with scandal and debauchery, or the spooky side including a visit to Whaley House (the most haunted house in America). I’d personally go with the Tombstones tour because I love spooky history!

Finally, if you do want to have a more traditional sit down dinner, I have two recommendations in the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you’re in the mood for more Mexican food (because the limit does not exist), I recommend El Chingon for Mexican food. I loved their vegetarian potato tacos, which cost only $5 for 3 for happy hour.

Lou and Mickey’s was a phenomenal fine-dining seafood experience. I really enjoyed their macademia nut crusted wild Alaskan halibut. So perfectly crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth on the inside! Plus, a made to order apple cobbler… yes, I’m drooling again .

PS: wondering how a grad student like me was able to afford all these spots? Check out how I traveled (for free) as a broke college student .

Evening: a taste of the nightlife scene in the Gaslamp Quarter

Regardless which food option you choose, I do recommend ending your 24 hours in San Diego at the Gaslamp Quarter.

There’s a great nightlife scene here. For a fun 1920s vibe, head to Prohibition Liquor Bar , a speakeasy located at 548 Fifth Ave. – spot the Law Office Eddie O’hare Esq. door to enter. Themed attire is encouraged on Friday and Saturday!

Another fun option would be to go to a comedy show. There are lots of venues to choose from in the Gaslamp Quarter including American Comedy Co. , The Laugh Factory , Mad House Comedy Club , and The Tipsy Crow .

End the night with some delectable ice cream from the Ghirardelli Shop at 643 Fifth Ave in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Alternate things to do in San Diego

If you’re looking for some other things to do in San Diego, here are some ideas:

• San Diego Zoo and Safari Park
• Harbor cruise
• USS Midway Museum
• Baseball game at Petco Park
• Whale watching tour
• Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala
• Get a day pass to a swanky hotel to use their adults-only rooftop pool…yes, I’ve done this, and it was worth every penny of the whopping $18

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More time in Southern California? Check out these posts:

• How to spend 5 days in Los Angeles
• Ultimate budget guide to Los Angeles
• Itinerary for a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park
• Top beaches in Los Angeles
• General travel guide to California
• Best things to do on the West Coast

My Travel Essentials

• Travel Insurance  – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing .
• Travel Card  – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide  – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com  – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com , the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
• Give the Gift of Travel  – This is the perfect gift for travelers in your life! Tinggly allows you to gift experiences around the world, perfect for birthdays, weddings, or anniversaries.
• Staycation Idea  – Check out Resort Pass , which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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Alanna Koritzke

Recent PhD graduate and hyper-planner of Periodic Adventures, my goal is to share travel inspiration, budget tips, detailed guides, and fun travel stories!

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Jam-packed indeed! Hopefully when I make it out to the West Coast I’ll have time to pace myself a liiiittle bit more than this but it’s always nice to know how to make the most of limited time if you have to. Who knows, maybe I’ll need to fill a long layover someday!

You never know! And you could always cut things out as you see fit to make it a more relaxed itinerary 🙂

Anja | Anja On Adventure

Jap packed but I love it! Not all the time but those itineraries are great when you are short on time. So bummed I didn’t manage to get to San Diego when I was in Cali. Next time!

Agreed! When you’re short on time sometimes jam-packed is the way to go!

A Capone Connection

California is on my bucket list! Definitely saving this for when I’m ready to start planning. Thank you so much.

It really is such a wonderful state to explore!

San Diego looks like a beautiful (and delicious) place to visit! So many fun activities and that margarita looks amazing!

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• Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss

Looking to make the most of your day trip to San Diego?

Well, you’ve landed in the perfect place. In this guide, I’ve assembled a power-packed one day in San Diego itinerary from my best experiences there. Having lived in Los Angeles for three years, San Diego became a common weekend getaway for friend trips and chasing my love of techno raves.

During one of my numerous trips to San Diego, I had a complete tourist experience over the entire weekend with a friend who attended UCSD. He knew all the cool local spots to show us. Despite being a fairly big city, you can get a pretty good overall idea of San Diego in just one day.

Alright, time-strapped travelers, let’s make the most of your limited time with an exciting day to can’t-miss places like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter. And if you have some extra time, I’ll also share recommendations for other places, along with some trip-planning info. 

Sample One Day in San Diego Itinerary

So that you’ve got everything conveniently laid out in one scroll, here’s your super-packed day trip itinerary below.

• Start your day with  breakfast at Cafe 22  in the Gaslamp Quarter.
• Learn about naval history at the  USS Midway Museum.
• Stroll endlessly through  Balboa Park.
• Head over and grab a fish tacos at one of the  Mexican restaurants in Old Town.
• Wander around the  historic Old Town San Diego State Park.

Early Evening

• Head to  La Jolla Cove  to spot some sea lions on beautiful cliffsides.
• Alternative:  Go to  Cabrillo National Monument f or cityscape sunsets.
• Dine in one of the many ocean-view restaurants or take a harbor cruise that serves dinner.
• End your day  partying in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Recommended Places to Stay in San Diego: Gaslamp Quarter

• The Pendry San Diego : A luxurious hotel with modern rooms and a rooftop pool.
• Staypineapple, Hotel Z, Gaslamp San Diego : A boutique hotel with quirky rooms and complimentary bike rentals.
• HI San Diego Downtown Hostel : A budget-friendly option with shared dorms and private rooms. 

Quick Facts to Visiting San Diego

Get ready to soak up some California sun in San Diego, a city with over 70 miles of spectacular beaches and an average temperature of 70 degrees year-round. This top West Coast destination has some of the coolest tours, like whale watching and harbor cruises.

Did you know it’s also home to the largest urban cultural park in North America, Balboa Park? And being only 30 minutes from Tijuana, it’s no surprise that Mexican culture strongly influences its food, architecture, and overall vibe.

What to Do in San Diego in One Day

Morning: gaslamp quarter.

Start your day in the heart of downtown San Diego at the Gaslamp Quarter, a 16 block historic district featuring restored Victorian-era buildings, trendy restaurants and bars, and chic boutiques and galleries. It’s also the best place for nightlife, but we’ll save that for the end. 

Grab breakfast at Cafe 22 for a well-known local favorite, or try Richard Walker’s Pancake House for some tasty pancakes.

Read More: If you really want to dig deep into the food culture, I recommend finding a San Diego food tour!

After breakfast, stroll around the Gaslamp Quarter and admire the beautiful architecture. Don’t miss the famous Gaslamp Quarter arches, a signature landmark of San Diego, and the Davis-Horton House, the oldest standing structure in the area.

The Quarter is also home to many exciting events, such as the Mardi Gras Parade and the Street Scene Music Festival, so keep an eye out for local happenings.

USS Midway Museum

Next up on your one day San Diego itinerary is a visit to the USS Midway Museum, housed within a massive decommissioned aircraft carrier. 

You’ll find the USS Midway Museum along Navy Pier. Step into a world of naval warfare and air supremacy with over 60 exhibits and an impressive collection of aircraft on display, including helicopters, fighter jets, and more. There’s also a flight simulator, so you can feel what it’s like to pilot an aircraft.

Time-Saving Tip!  Purchase your tickets online here to save time and skip the line.

Otherwise, other places in the Embarcadero area to visit are the Maritime Museum of San Diego, the Seaport Village, Old Town Trolley Tours , and Seal Tours .

Wander the Never-Ending Balboa Park

Just a stone’s throw from downtown is the crown jewel of San Diego: Balboa Park . Spanning a massive 1,200 acres, this urban cultural park has endless gardens, over 17 museums, and a full-on safari zoo. You can literally stay here for hours, if not days. 

Start your walk down El Prado, the park’s central avenue for the Spanish-Renaissance architectural-style buildings. Back when I went, the paths were lined with people playing Pokemon Go here.

If you’re museum-inclined, the highly recommended ones are the San Diego Museum of Man, the San Diego Air and Space Museum, and the San Diego Museum of Art. Other must-visit spots are the Botanical Building, the Japanese Friendship Garden, and the Old Globe Theater. 

The San Diego Zoo is consistently rated as one of the world’s best, but you probably won’t be able to fit this into a day trip if you want to see other places.

Travel Tip:  Some museums and attractions within Balboa Park require tickets like the San Diego Zoo ( which you can purchase here ). But the park also has plenty of free events and performances, so check the schedule before you go.

Afternoon: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

If you’re not yet already starving, head to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park for some authentic Mexican cuisine. This area is considered the birthplace of California since it was the first permanent European settlement in the state.

The area is lined with preserved and reconstructed buildings from the mid-19th century. The Whaley House Museum , known as one of the most haunted houses in America, is a particular crowd-puller. If ghosts aren’t your thing, check out the Blacksmith Shop or the Old Adobe Chapel. 

You’ll see actors dressed in period attire, performing reenactments of daily life back in the day. 

Catch the Sea Lions at La Jolla Cove

It’s pretty tough to pull off adding La Jolla to your day trip itinerary. You could spend an entire day in this area alone. But personally, I think it’s worth a visit.

The sunset here is known for being one of the most magical in San Diego. The water is incredibly clear, the cliffsides gorgeous, and there are always masses of sea lions lounging around. And you can get incredibly close to them. It’s also a prime spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, and there are few in California you can do so.

If you have extra time, go on a kayak tour or rent a paddleboard and explore the caves along the coast. The La Jolla Village also has many interesting boutique shops and art galleries.

Watch the Sunset at Cabrillo National Monument

Alternatively, head to Cabrillo National Monument for stunning city views at sunset. This national park is perched on the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula, with hiking trails and a lighthouse. You’ll also get complete views of San Diego’s skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and Mexico’s Coronado Islands. 

And did I mention the tide pools? On your way out, descend the two-mile Bayside Trail to the rocky intertidal area. During low tide, nature reveals pools filled with colorful sea anemones, starfish, and crabs. 

Travel Tip!  The national historic landmark charges an entrance fee, or you can use an America the Beautiful National Park Pass.

Party in the Gaslamp Quarter

As promised, end your one day in San Diego with a bang by experiencing the nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter. The streets come alive at night with live music, rooftop bars, and swanky lounges. Coming to a festival in this area is actually where I met my best friend.

Known for its rotating theme and decor, Fluxx Nightclub is a must for the club scene. For live music, the Shout! House is a crowd favorite with its dueling pianos and interactive performances.

The Gaslamp Quarter has a lot of craft breweries, and Ballast Point and Monkey Paw are two standouts. Or you could have it all going on an organized pub crawl . And if you’re feeling brave, try a haunted ghost tour to wrap up your night.

Where to Stay in San Diego

For the best location, I recommend staying in the Gaslamp Quarter, as it is centrally located and within walking distance of many top attractions. You’ll be by beautiful beaches in La Jolla, but it’s a bit far, and North Park is celebrated for its hip atmosphere and street art. 

Best Hotels in Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego

Places to visit with more time, other things to do in san diego.

• Mission Beach : A classic Southern California beach with a boardwalk and the historic Belmont Park, a beachfront amusement park.
• Seaport Village : A waterfront shopping and dining complex with Pacific Ocean views.
• Torrey Pines State Reserve : Beautiful hiking trails with striking ocean views. Black’s Beach is known for its steep stairs and clothing-optionalness.
• Little Italy : Renowned for its trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and the lively Mercato Farmers’ Market.
• Coronado Island : A long bridge to a small town with beautiful beaches and the iconic Hotel Del Coronado.
• Go Paragliding:  A popular activity is to fly over San Diego’s coastline.

Day Trips from San Diego

• Temecula : Famous for its wineries, it’s a great place for wine tasting and hot air balloon rides.
• Joshua Tree National Park : A desert park with unique trees and rock formations for rock climbing, hiking, and star gazing.
• Laguna Beach : A seaside resort city with pristine beaches and art galleries.
• Salton Sea : One of my favorite places in California. It’s a dying saline lake on the San Andreas Fault.
• Los Angeles : The city of stars and a cultural hub in one of the largest cities in the USA.
• Tijuana, Mexico : Just 30 minutes away, many locals cross the border just to get cheaper groceries and gas. But you can get a taste of Mexico too. Remember to bring your passport! 
• Julian : A historic gold-mining town known for its apple pies, approximately an hour away.
• Palm Springs : Known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, and spas.
• Disneyland Resort in Anaheim : The “Happiest Place on Earth” is less than two hours away.
• Santa Barbara : Known for its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings and beautiful beaches, it’s about three hours away.

Is 1 Day Enough for San Diego

It’s possible to get a decent taste of San Diego in just one day. However, to feel relaxed and be able to add more activities, an ideal stay would be at least 2 to 3 days. If I had more than one day, I would leave La Jolla for a separate day, then go up the coast to check out the northern beachside and go paragliding. 

With more time, I would go to nearby day trip places such as Temecula or Joshua Tree National Park. Staying longer would also mean more dining at diverse restaurants, trying out the craft beer scene, or going on a scenic hike.

Best Time To Visit

With its awesome weather , San Diego is a great place to visit year round. But if you’re looking for the best time, spring and fall win out over the other seasons. The temperature is not too hot or chilly, but most importantly, as a popular tourist destination, it’s not overrun with people and high hotel prices. 

The winter months drop to 50°F – 66°F, but it’s worth visiting if you’re into going on a whale-watching boat trip . This is the best time to catch a glimpse of migrating gray whales along the coast.

How to Get Here

San Diego is an easily accessible destination.

By Air:  Air is the fastest way to reach San Diego if traveling from afar. San Diego International Airport, located three miles northwest of Downtown, serves domestic and international flights.

By Train:  For those near the West Coast, Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner provides service along the coast between San Luis Obispo and San Diego.

By Car:  If you’re coming from nearby cities such as Los Angeles or Phoenix, San Diego is easily reached via Interstates 5, 8, 15, and 805. The drive from LA takes about 2 to 3 hours, while it takes about 5 to 6 hours from Phoenix.

By Bus:  Greyhound buses go to the main bus station in downtown San Diego.

And once you get here, the public transportation system consists of buses and trolleys. You can use the  PRONTO Card   to pay for your rides or purchase a one-day or multi-day pass.

But really, I recommend having a car to get around. And if you’re looking for a rental, DiscoverCars is my go-to aggregator.

Final Thoughts: What to Do with 24 Hours in San Diego

San Diego may be a big city, but it somehow still has a charming small-town feel. It’s a place that many Los Angelenos say they would rather live. And even if you’re there for a short visit, you’ll realize why. It’s a smaller, chiller version of LA without many of its problems. 

And if you’re headed elsewhere in the Golden State, check out our comprehensive guides on other fascinating destinations in California below.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

• Perfect One Day In Lassen Volcanic National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Redwood National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Joshua Tree Itinerary For First-Timers
• One Day In Death Valley Itinerary For Adventurers
• Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers
• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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One Amazing Day in San Diego: The Best of San Diego in a Day

San Diego has a diverse array of places to explore, things to do, and sights to see. From hanging out at the beach to checking out local breweries to exploring The Gaslamp Quarter, there really is something for everyone. While you may not be able to experience all that the larger county has to offer with just one day in San Diego, you can still fit in a lot of must-do activities during a day trip. 

As a California native who grew up in San Diego, I’m here to break down the perfect day in San Diego.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive guide to spending a day in San Diego, some additional activity ideas to consider if you have more time, as well as some tips to make the most of your visit.

Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one and purchase something, we make a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you. It goes without saying that we would never recommend something we wouldn’t use or do ourselves.

Is a Day in San Diego Enough?

If you only have one day in San Diego, you’ll have enough time to explore the most popular sights in Downtown San Diego and the surrounding area.

The day trip itinerary below includes Little Italy , Balboa Park , Hillcrest , the Embarcadero , the USS Midway Museum , and the Gaslamp Quarter , so you can certainly pack a lot in one day.

That said, a day isn’t enough if you want to truly experience the greater San Diego County.

San Diego is known for its beaches and picturesque coastal towns, and unfortunately you won’t be able to fully explore downtown and one of these beachside destinations if you are doing San Diego in one day.

You also won’t be able to visit Coronado Island – which is right across the bay from Downtown San Diego – if you only have a day. 

While you’ll definitely still have fun taking a day trip to San Diego, if possible, I’d recommend adding at least another day to your itinerary.

You could spend one day following the itinerary below, and then another hanging out at the beach and exploring one of San Diego’s coastal towns or Coronado Island. For beer lovers, you could also make some time on a second day to do a bit of brewery hopping.

If you do decide to extend your visit, after the one day itinerary below, you’ll find more detailed information on what to do with more time in San Diego. You can also check out this guide to a weekend in San Diego , which includes some of the activities mentioned above, as well as things to do with a third day. 

How to Spend One Day in San Diego: The Best of San Diego in a Day

You’ll kick off your San Diego day trip with breakfast in Little Italy, and then make your way to Balboa Park, followed by Hillcrest for lunch. After that, you’ll return to Downtown San Diego to explore all that the Embarcadero has to offer, and then have a fun night out in The Gaslamp Quarter.

It will be a pretty full day, so be sure to get out early to make the most of your short time in San Diego!

Grab Breakfast or Coffee in Little Italy

To start off your 24 hours in San Diego, head over to Little Italy to grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. Little Italy is a charming and super walkable neighborhood in the northern section of Downtown San Diego.

It’s filled to the brim with great restaurants and coffee shops. Take a walk down India Street to catch a glimpse of the Little Italy sign (between Date Street and Fir Street), and then head to one of these spots for some caffeine and a bite to eat:

• Morning Glory : This quirky and colorfully decorated breakfast eatery offers a super unique menu – you’ll find dishes like breakfast carbonara and souffle pancakes, in addition to more classic morning dishes. Morning Glory also has an impressively large selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.  
• Parakeet Cafe : Parakeet Cafe offers a ton of delicious pastries (with lots of vegan and gluten free options), as well as a variety of breakfast dishes, including acai bowls, avocado toast, and waffles. Their coffee and tea drinks are also excellent – I highly recommend the lavender matcha latte!
• Bird Rock Coffee Roasters : Bird Rock is an award-winning San Diego coffee company that has cafes across the county, including in Little Italy. The coffee shop has an extensive menu of both coffee and tea drinks, and also offers some small snacks. 
• Little Italy Farmers Market : If you happen to be visiting San Diego on a Wednesday or Saturday, consider stopping by the Little Italy Mercato for breakfast, snacks, and/or something to drink. Vendors sell pastries, coffee, juice, nuts, and so much more. 

Explore Balboa Park

Next up is Balboa Park , which is a less than 10-minute drive from Little Italy. While I’d recommend taking a car for efficiency, the main entrance is about 1.5-miles away if you’d like to walk. 

To take public transportation : To get to Balboa Park from Little Italy, you can take the route 7 bus . You’ll need to walk over to the Front Street and B Street bus stop (about three-quarters of a mile away from the center of Little Italy), and then take the bus to Park Boulevard and Zoo Place – the ride will be about 15 minutes, and will cost $2.50. 

Balboa Park is an expansive outdoor space just outside of Downtown San Diego. The grounds are home to over 16 museums, as well as a variety of gorgeous gardens. Balboa Park is also famous for its buildings, which are built in an intricate Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial style architecture.

Even if you don’t stop inside one of the museums, Balboa Park is worth a visit if you’re doing San Diego in a day – especially if the weather is nice! It’s an amazing place to go on a stroll, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. 

While you’re visiting, I highly recommend stopping by the Spanish Village Art Center , which is on the northeast side of the park. This brightly colored village is home to a variety of studios, where you can sometimes find local artists working on their pieces.

The Botanical Building is also a spot that can’t be missed. At the time of writing, it’s currently closed for renovations, but you can still view the beautiful exterior.

If you happen to be visiting during cherry blossom season (typically early March), stop by the Japanese Friendship Garden to see these flowers in full bloom. Even if the cherry blossoms aren’t in bloom, it’s worth a stop! 

As mentioned, Balboa Park is filled with many incredible museums. You can check out the full list of museums here to see what piques your interest, but some worth mentioning are the San Diego Museum of Art , the Fleet Science Center , and the newly opened Comic-Con Museum .

These museums do require a separate entrance fee – check the website of the museum(s) you’re interested in for ticket prices. 

Get Lunch in Hillcrest

Once you’ve explored Balboa Park, it’s time to head over to Hillcrest (which is northwest of Balboa Park) to grab a bite to eat for lunch. Hillcrest is about 2 miles away from the center of Balboa Park, so I’d recommend taking a car to get up there, rather than walking. 

If you’re taking public transportation: The most straightforward bus route will go from the 4th Avenue and Laurel Street bus stop , which is on the opposite side of the park from Park Boulevard and Zoo Place. Catch the route 120 bus , and then take it to the 4th Avenue and University Avenue stop . This ride will be about 5 minutes, and will cost $2.50 

Hillcrest is a trendy neighborhood featuring lots of great restaurants and bars, as well as cool secondhand shops and local boutiques. It’s also the home to San Diego’s LGBTQ+ community.

Take a walk down Fifth Avenue (the section between University Avenue and Robinson Avenue is home to many of Hillcrest’s most popular shops and restaurants), and then head to one of these restaurants for lunch:

• Snooze, an A.M. Eatery : If you decided to skip the big breakfast in Little Italy (or just want breakfast round two), head to Snooze, where you can get creative breakfast sandwiches, benedicts, pancakes, and more. Heads up – this place is popular, but you can go to their website to get on the waitlist before you arrive to help cut down your wait time. 
• Common Stock : Common Stock is a local restaurant and cocktail bar offering sandwiches, salads, shared plates, and more. Some menu standouts include the Nashville Hot Chicken, the Cubano Sandwich, and the Blistered Shishitos.
• Goi Cuon : If you’re looking for a quicker lunch option, head over to Goi Cuon, a casual Vietnamese eatery. The menu features Vietnamese sandwiches, salad bowls, and combo plates with spring rolls, soups, dumplings, and more. There are also a variety of vegan options on the menu. 
• Bread & Cie : This cafe and bakery offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, paninis, and more. For a sweet treat, be sure to grab a freshly baked pastry from the bakery’s extensive menu, as well!
• La Vecindad Neighborhood Tacos : San Diego is home to some of the best Mexican food that you can find in California, and this Hillcrest favorite doesn’t disappoint. The menu features not only a wide variety of tacos (including vegetarian options), but also quesadillas, bowls, appetizers, and margaritas. 

Head Back to Downtown San Diego and Walk Down the Embarcadero

After lunch, it’s time to head back to Downtown San Diego for a stroll along the Embarcadero. Here, you’ll get lovely views of the bay, and also pass by a few cool points of interest.

If you’re driving your own car, you’ll find recommendations on where to park at the end of this article. If you’re taking a rideshare, get dropped off around Waterfront Park . 

For those taking public transportation : The most straightforward option is to take the route 11 bus . Head to the 1st Avenue and Robinson Avenue bus stop , and take the bus down to 2nd Ave and Ash Street . This ride will take about 8 minutes, and will cost $2.50. From there, you can walk west down Ash Street until you hit the Embarcadero (about three-quarters of a mile).

For your walk, you’ll start just north of West Ash Street, and head south. The first point of interest that you’ll see is the Star of India , which is right across the street from Waterfront Park .

This iron ship was built in the Isle of Man in 1863, and today is the world’s oldest active sailing ship (although it mostly remains docked, and doesn’t often sail beyond sight from the coast).

The ship – which has made over 20 trips around the world – has been used as a cargo ship to India, as well as transportation for British emigrants heading to New Zealand. It later worked as a salmon hauler, sailing between Alaska and California. The Star of India is both a California and US Historic Landmark. 

After checking out the exterior of the Star of India, continue walking south down the Embarcadero for about half a mile, until you hit the USS Midway.  

Explore the USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway is a decommissioned naval aircraft carrier that served from 1945 to 1992, making it the longest serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century. It is now permanently docked in San Diego, and is home to the USS Midway Museum. 

At the museum, you can see an extensive aircraft collection, which features a variety of restored WWII planes and helicopters. There are exhibits throughout the entirety of the USS Midway, from the flight deck to below deck, so you’ll also get a complete view of the aircraft carrier itself.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance , or on-site. An adult ticket currently costs $26, but be sure to check the website for the most up-to-date pricing. 

Keep in mind that, if you got a later start to the day (or spent some extra time in Balboa Park), you may not have enough time to dedicate to the USS Midway Museum. The museum closes at 5:00 pm (but check the website for the most current opening hours), and if you don’t have at least an hour and a half available to visit the museum, I’d recommend skipping it .

If you decide not to actually go into the museum, you can still get up close to the USS Midway. Take a walk down Navy Pier (just north of the ship), and you’ll be able to get a good view of the USS Midway, as well as some of the helicopters and aircrafts on display. 

Check Out the Unconditional Surrender Statue

Once you’re done at the USS Midway, you’ll finish off your walk down the Embarcadero. Walk just a few hundred feet south, and then turn right into Tuna Harbor Park .

Here, you’ll see the Unconditional Surrender Statue – it’s huge, so you won’t miss it! This sculpture is based on the famous “V-J Day in Times Square” photo from 1954 of a sailor kissing a woman in New York City.

Just past this statue is the National Salute to Bob Hope and the Military war memorial. 

Grab Dinner and Drinks in The Gaslamp Quarter

You can’t spend a day in San Diego without checking out The Gaslamp Quarter.

This downtown neighborhood is the heart of San Diego’s nightlife, and is home to a variety of amazing restaurants. The center of this neighborhood is less than a mile away from Tuna Harbor Park, so you can easily walk over via Market Street.

For dinner, consider one of these great Gaslamp Quarter restaurants:

• La Puerta : A lively Mexican cantina with an extensive menu featuring street tacos, burritos, quesadillas, loaded fries, and much more. For the tequila aficionados, the restaurant also has a huge tequila menu, as well as a variety of cocktails. 
• Osteria Panevino : This Italian restaurant has been a Gaslamp staple since 1992. Osteria Panevino offers a variety of classic Italian dishes, including pizzas, pastas, and meat and seafood entrees. The restaurant also has an extensive wine and cocktail menu.
• Meze Greek Fusion : This popular Greek restaurant is a great place to check out if you’re in the mood for Mediterranean food. The menu features a huge list of hot and cold mezes to share (including hummus, baba ganoush, dolmas, and more), as well as delicious Greek entrees. 
• Rustic Root : This restaurant serves American comfort food with a modern, California twist. The menu features dishes like Maine Seared Scallops, Rustic Fried Chicken, Salmon Poke Tartare, Louisiana Shrimp and Grits, and more. Rustic Root also has a great cocktail menu. 

After dinner, it’s time to explore a bar or two in the area! Here are some great places to grab a drink:

• Noble Experiment : This dimly-lit speakeasy style bar – which is hidden in the back of a restaurant called Neighborhood – is one of the best places to get amazing cocktails in San Diego. While they do take walk-ins, the bar is fairly small, so it is not a bad idea to make a reservation in advance online. 
• The Nolen : A modern rooftop bar and restaurant located on the 14th floor of the Gaslamp’s Marriott hotel. Sip on a beer, wine, or craft cocktail while enjoying views of Petco Park, the Coronado Bridge, and the city of San Diego.
• The Field : A cozy but lively Irish pub located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. The bar often hosts musicians, so it’s a great spot to enjoy some whiskey, a Guinness, or a cocktail while listening to live music. Fun fact: this spot is owned by an Irish couple, and they’ve shipped some of the unique pieces you’ll find in the pub over from Ireland!
• Bay City Brewing Company Tasting Room : While you may not have enough time to do the full San Diego brewery experience, you can still try some amazing local beer. Bay City offers a variety of locally brewed beers on tap, including IPAs, lagers, pilsners, and more. 

What To Do With More Than a Day in San Diego

I definitely recommend adding more time to your San Diego visit if you’re able to. There is a huge diversity of things to do in San Diego, and an extra day or two will give you more of an opportunity to truly experience the county.

If you’re planning a weekend in San Diego, be sure to check out this guide . This comprehensive weekend itinerary includes Downtown San Diego, La Jolla (a beach town north of downtown), and a coastal hike. 

If you’re looking for more ideas on what to do in San Diego with extra time, here are a few of my favorite San Diego County activities. 

Get Outside and Go Hiking

There are plenty of great places to hike all throughout San Diego County. Here are a few of my top recommended trails in San Diego: 

• Mt. Woodson Trail to Potato Chip Rock in Poway (7.3 miles, 2,119-feet elevation gain): This moderate out-and-back trail is one of the more popular hikes in San Diego, largely thanks to the frequently photographed Potato Chip Rock. As you climb your way up the mountain, you’ll get sweeping views of the surrounding area, and eventually make your way to the rock. Keep in mind that there is typically a line to get a photo on the rock, so you may have to wait a bit. If the 7-mile trail seems a bit daunting, there’s also a 4.1-mile trail on the opposite side of the mountain that also goes up to Potato Chip Rock.
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla (1.6 miles, 216-feet elevation gain): If you want amazing coastal views, this natural reserve is the place to go. While the series of trails linked here is under two miles, you can easily get in more hiking if you’d like – check out AllTrails for more trails in the reserve. There’s also a trail that takes you down to the beach (be sure to check when high tide is before you go), so you can also walk by the water if you’d like. Keep in mind that parking right by the trailheads is limited. You’ll likely need to either park at Torrey Pines Beach Parking or on the street along North Torrey Pines Road, and then walk up Torrey Pines Park Road to the trailhead. 
• Iron Mountain Trail in Poway (5.9 miles, 1,125-feet elevation gain): This trail leads you up to the peak of Iron Mountain, which is 2,696 feet above sea level. The moderate out-and-back trail gives you amazing views of the surrounding mountains, especially on a clear day. There’s a fairly large parking lot right at the trailhead. 

Explore a Coastal Town & Spend Some Time at the Beach

Downtown San Diego is fun, but you’ll get to see a different side of San Diego by hanging out in one of the county’s coastal towns. If you have extra time in San Diego, I’d recommend visiting one (or both if you can!) of my favorite beachside towns: La Jolla or Encinitas.

La Jolla: An Upscale Beach Day

La Jolla is a lively coastal town about 13 miles north of Downtown San Diego that is known for its gorgeous, rugged coastline. La Jolla Cove is one of the must-see spots in town. While this beach is very small (and can get crowded), it’s incredibly picturesque, and definitely worth a stop.

At the park right by this cove, there’s also a great walking path that offers gorgeous views of the coast – and it’s a great place to spot sea lions! If you want to spend the day at the beach, I’d recommend heading up to La Jolla Shores Beach . It’s much larger than La Jolla Cove, so there’s lots of space to spread out and enjoy the view. 

The actual town of La Jolla is more upscale. You’ll pass by plenty of luxury hotels and fine dining spots as you walk around town, but there are more lowkey places to hang out, as well. For coffee, I’d recommend stopping by Better Buzz or Parakeet Cafe .

For food and drinks, some great spots include The Cottage (casual spot for breakfast and lunch with great outdoor seating), Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar (a more upscale contemporary restaurant serving seasonal California cuisine), George’s at the Cove (a three level restaurant with outdoor seating options serving California-inspired meals), and La Sala Lounge (a bar inside La Valencia Hotel with great views of the beach).  

Encinitas: A Low Key Beach Town

Encinitas is about 17 miles up the coast from La Jolla. The main stretch of restaurants, shops, bars, and coffee shops is on Highway 101 between Santa Fe Drive (to the south) and Encinitas Boulevard (to the north).

This stretch is located just a couple blocks inland from Moonlight State Beach , which is a great beach to go on a walk or just hang out. If you plan on going for a beach walk, head south, as you’ll get gorgeous views of the cliffs in this direction. Be mindful of when high tide is – the water does go up to the cliffs (and blocks any walking path) during high tide. 

The town of Encinitas is a bit more lowkey and casual than La Jolla, but it has just as many great spots to eat, drink, and grab coffee. For coffee, there is another Better Buzz , as well as Ironsmith Coffee Roasters .

For food and drinks, stop by Modern Times Brewery Restaurant and Tasting Room (which has a fully plant-based menu that’s great for lunch and dinner), Encinitas Fish Shop (a casual seafood restaurant), Plumeria (a vegetarian Thai restaurant), Q’ero (a Peruvian restaurant – get their Sangria!), or Death by Tequila (a coastal Mexican-inspired restaurant with great cocktails). 

Another great spot worth highlighting is Jorge’s Mexicatessen , a casual Mexican spot. It’s not on Highway 101 (it’s located in a shopping center on Santa Fe Drive), but it’s worth the quick detour. They’re famous for their amazing chicken soup!

Check Out Some Local Breweries

San Diego is known for its brewery scene, so if you love beer, you’ll definitely want to make the time to check out some local breweries. A lot of the San Diego breweries are located in and around Miramar, which is about 15 miles north of Downtown San Diego. The breweries recommended below are all in that area so that you can do some easy brewery hopping.

That said, there are breweries located all across the county. You can easily find at least a couple near you, regardless of where you’re staying or hanging out in San Diego. If you won’t be heading to Miramar, use this map to find some great breweries near you. 

Here are a few breweries in the Miramar area that I recommend checking out:

• Pure Project : The Miramar location is small (and very popular, so it gets crowded!), but has a great selection of IPAs, sours, and more. 
• Ballast Point : The Ballast Point in Miramar, on the other hand, is huge, and has a large selection of beers on tap. It’s also a great spot to grab lunch or dinner. 
• AleSmith Brewing Co. : This large tasting room has a variety of year-round and limited release beers on tap. AleSmith also frequently has food trucks on-site – there’s a schedule on their website.   
• Rough Draft Brewing Co. : The Rough Draft Brewery and Tasting Room has 18 taps, and offers a wide selection of IPAs, as well as ales, lagers, stouts, and more. It’s also a great spot to grab a burger, sandwich, or pretzel to share.

Do a Hornblower City Cruise Tour

This is one of the more touristy suggestions, but I can confidently say that this is an activity that locals and visitors alike enjoy.

Hornblower offers a variety of different boat tours that depart out of the San Diego Bay. This includes whale and dolphin watching tours, one- and two-hour harbor cruises, and dinner and brunch cruises.

Prices range from $33 to $145, and you can book your reservation online. 

Where to Stay for a Night in San Diego

If you decide to spend a night in San Diego, there are some great hotel options in the area.

Be sure to check out the more in-depth guide on Where to Stay in San Diego for details on the best neighborhoods to stay in, as well as hotel recommendations.

Here’s a quick guide to some hotel options in Downtown San Diego and La Jolla. 

Downtown San Diego

The US Grant : The US Grant is a luxury hotel on the border of The Gaslamp Quarter that dates back to 1910. You can book rooms and suites (some with balconies), and there is also a restaurant, cocktail bar, fitness center, and spa on-site. 

The Pendry San Diego : This modern and upscale Gaslamp Quarter hotel has both rooms and suites available, many of which offer views of the bay and the city. Pendry also has six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool, a spa, and fitness center, and a nightclub.

The Omni Hotel : Omni Hotel is located right on the edge of the Gaslamp Quarter, towards the bay. This luxury hotel has both rooms and suites available (with amazing views of the city and bay). It also has a fitness center, outdoor terrace and swimming pool, and a bar and grill. 

Pantai Inn : This boutique Polynesian-inspired hotel is located just steps away from the beach. There are suites with full kitchens available, as well as studios, and you can also request an accommodation with a private outdoor space.

La Valencia : La Valencia is a gorgeous Spanish-style hotel that offers beautiful views of the ocean. The hotel has rooms, suites, and villas available (some with private outdoor spaces). There are also indoor and outdoor restaurants, a bar, a pool, and a fitness center.

Grande Colonial : Grande Colonial is an elegant boutique hotel located just a couple blocks away from the beach. The upscale hotel offers both rooms and suites (some of which have ocean views), and also has a restaurant and bar ( Nine-Ten ) on-site.

Getting Around San Diego

There are a variety of ways that you can get around San Diego during your visit. Here’s what you need to know about each mode of transportation. 

Getting around Downtown San Diego on foot is pretty easy. The city itself is fairly small, so you can get from place to place without needing to drive or take public transportation.

That said, the above itinerary does take you outside of Downtown San Diego (to Balboa Park and Hillcrest). Getting to those spots on foot is doable (if you’re prepared to get some serious steps in!), but since the itinerary is pretty packed and you only have a day, this isn’t the most efficient option. 

To ensure you get to hit up each spot on the itinerary, I’d recommend taking another mode of transportation to Balboa Park and Hillcrest. Once you return to Downtown San Diego after lunch, you can park your car for the day and explore the city on foot. 

By Public Transit

San Diego has a public transportation system called the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) , which consists of multiple bus routes and a trolley system.

If you don’t have a car and would prefer not to spend money on a rideshare, the bus can be a great more affordable alternative for getting to Balboa Park and/or Hillcrest (and then back to Downtown SD), but keep in mind that this won’t be quite as efficient as driving.

If you decide to take public transportation, you’ll find specific information on what buses to take in each section of the day trip itinerary above, where needed.

That said, be sure to check the MTS website for the most up-to-date bus and trolley schedules, as they may change. You can also use this website to plan any other public transportation trips you’d like to make during your visit. 

San Diego doesn’t currently have a bike share program, but you can rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals , which is located on the southern section of the Embarcadero, at the Marriott Marquis . Hourly rates range from $12 to $40, depending on what you rent.

This is a great option if you’d like to bike the Embarcadero, rather than walk. Keep in mind that you’d be biking in the opposite direction than is outlined in the itinerary, since the rental location is on the south side.

Consider taking your bike to the end of the Embarcadero for great views of the city across the water, and then turning around and returning the bike before heading into The Gaslamp Quarter for dinner. 

By Car (Personal Vehicle or Rideshare)

For efficiency, I’d recommend having a car (or taking a rideshare – Lyfts and Ubers are easy to get) when exploring San Diego, mostly so that you can easily and efficiently get to Balboa Park and Hillcrest.

There are multiple free parking lots at Balboa Park, and you can find street parking in Hillcrest and Little Italy.

Once you return to the downtown area, you’ll want to park your car for the rest of the day and explore by foot.

In order to easily get back to your car after dinner and drinks, I’d recommend parking near The Gaslamp Quarter. Some 24 hour parking garages in the area include Park it on Market , 6th and K Parkade , and the Horton Plaza Garage . 

When to Visit San Diego

Weather wise, there really isn’t a bad time to visit San Diego.

Since the city is right on the coast, the temperatures don’t tend to get brutally hot in the summer – the average is around the high 70s. The warmer weather continues into the fall, and then during the winter, the average temperature during the day tends to be around the mid 60s. During the spring, expect temperatures in the high 60s during the day. 

The only time that you definitely don’t want to visit the Downtown San Diego area is when Comic-Con (which is held at the San Diego Convention Center) is happening – typically around the end of July.

The city gets insanely busy, and it will be more stressful to navigate than it’s worth. Restaurants and bars will be harder to get into, and some spots will even be closed for private events related to the convention. Additionally, rideshares will be expensive and difficult to get, parking lots will be packed (and the prices will be insane), and if you’re trying to stay overnight, hotels will be booked out.

In short, visit San Diego whenever you’d like – just not at the end of July!

Plan an Unforgettable California Adventure

Heading to California? We’ve got all sorts of super detailed, in-depth California travel guides written by locals to help you plan an amazing trip.

• San Francisco: We’ve got a guide to spending 3 days in SF, one day in San Francisco for planning a shorter trip, and a complete guide to finding the perfect place to stay in San Francisco . We also have guides to 14 perfect weekend getaways from San Francisco and the best day trips in the Bay Area . Oh, we almost forgot, here are the 15 best hikes near San Francisco , written by two Bay Area locals.
• Los Angeles: Read our perfect 2 Day L.A. itinerary , our guide to spending one amazing day in L.A. (with two versions!), and a guide to helping you figure out where to stay .
• San Diego: Learn how to spend a day in San Diego , a weekend in San Diego , and where you should stay .
• Lake Tahoe : Plan the perfect summertime adventure with our 3 day Tahoe itinerary , guide to the best hikes , and our guide to the best things to do in Tahoe .
• Santa Barbara : We have a guide to planning a weekend in Santa Barbara , and a guide to a day trip to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles if you’re pressed for time.
• Mammoth Lakes : To plan a perfect getaway in the Eastern Sierra, read our guide to the best things to do in Mammoth Lakes in the summer . Plus, our guide to the best hikes in Mammoth , featuring the epic climb to the top of Duck Pass .
• Big Sur: Plan the perfect weekend away with our complete Big Sur itinerary .
• Yosemite National Park : Plan an amazing trip with our guide to planning an amazing Yosemite itinerary , and our guide to choosing where to stay at Yosemite .
• Joshua Tree National Park: Plan the perfect trip with our perfect weekend itinerary (or a day trip , if you have less time), a guide to the best hikes , and some cool places to stay in Joshua Tree .
• Death Valley National Park : We have a SUPER detailed guide to planning the perfect Death Valley itinerary , and a guide to the best hikes in Death Valley National Park .
• California Road Trips : See the best of the Pacific Coast Highway on our San Francisco to San Diego road trip , or make the trip up Highway from on a Los Angeles to SanFrancisco road trip . If you’re more into mountains than beaches, a Highway 395 road trip from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe might be more your speed.

Kyra is a freelance writer and a California native who has lived in the Bay Area, San Diego, and Los Angeles. She loves spending her free time hiking, taking photos, and exploring Southern California and the rest of her home state.

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One day in san diego: the best ideas for locals & visitors.

Exploring all that San Diego offers can take years–even decades–to accomplish. From live piano bars to lustrous speakeasies, bays and beaches made for every water sport in the book, and tree-filled parks and scenic viewpoints throughout–it’s safe to say there is no lack of places to have fun, get active, or unwind in San Diego. 

Those fortunate enough to live in this charming city full-time have the opportunity to take tourism a bit slower. Still, those visiting or residents who want to show their friends around but might have limited time to do so shouldn’t worry–we’ve devised a well-rounded itinerary that will allow you to soak up all the juicy adventures without feeling like you’ve missed out.

Table of Contents

The best time of year to visit san diego, join a private group tour, visit coronado, explore old town san diego, have fun at belmont park in mission beach, enjoy the beaches at la jolla cove on the north tip of san diego, taste beer at san diego breweries, hike at torrey pines state reserve, go scuba diving/snorkeling, visit the san diego zoo, there’s always something to do in san diego.

Total transparency here–there really is no bad time to visit San Diego. With year-round sunshine and activities at your disposal, rain or shine, you can’t go wrong no matter what season you decide to schedule your trip out here. Of course, if you prefer crisper mornings with a hazy marine layer or extra hot days with high UV rays, you’ll want to factor that in when planning your trip. Regardless, we guarantee you’ll enjoy your vacation because how could you not? 

To do San Diego properly, of course, you’ll need more than a day to explore the area thoroughly, but if you’ve got 1 day in San Diego and 1 day only, you won’t want to miss these noteworthy experiences and picturesque spots.

San Diego Top 10 Things to Do in One Day

Ok, so you have 24 hours in San Diego. Where to first? Are you more of a morning bruncher, a midday hiker, a restaurant hopper, or a night owl? Do you prefer a self-guided escapade, or do you want someone to show you the ropes to truly make the most of your short time? If you only have one day in San Diego, here are 9 must-see things to do and experience. Get ready for a fully loaded adventure!

While waltzing around on your own with no agenda can be a pleasant and exciting way to get to know a city, there are many benefits to joining a private group tour and exploring with a local guide, who has the city mapped out to a T. When you opt for a private tour guide in San Diego , you get to explore what matters to you in-depth–be it food, drinks, culture, or outdoor spaces. The best part is you don’t have to do any research–all of the leg work is done for you and designed to ensure you have the most memorable experience possible! There are tons of varieties of food and beverage tours offered in various neighborhoods that allow you to indulge and make the most out of your one day in San Diego. 

Coronado Island is known for its beautiful views of downtown San Diego, old-world mansions, cutesy parks, and pristine beaches. The quaint and charming town gives off a European feel unlike anything else you’ll find in San Diego. Coronado is the perfect place to spend a few hours if you love window shopping, freshly made gelato, or gallivanting through lush green gardens. 

Due to Coronado’s popular attractions, we recommend visiting in the morning, when there are often fewer crowds and less noise. It’s a spectacular way to get the day started before touring San Diego further, though the sunset views from an oceanfront eatery are an equally stunning way to spend time there. Don’t forget to stop by Hotel Coronado for a seaside beverage and appetizer with breathtaking views!

Old Town has some rather neat restaurants and historical sites rich in culture and authenticity. Within your San Diego one day itinerary, you’ll want to visit places such as Casa de Estudillo, Mason Street School, McCoy House, Old Adobe Chapel, Whaley House, and Heritage Park. All these historical relics are within a short distance of each other and near Presidio park, perfect for relaxing under a shaded tree with a blanket, sandwich, and bottle of wine. Old Town also has shops where you can purchase trinkets, crystals, and other artisan decors, along with traditional Mexican restaurants with patio seating. Please don’t sleep on the margaritas in the area; they do not disappoint!

Belmont Park in Mission Beach is a superb attraction if you’re looking for a sprinkle of thrill. The roller coasters and rides might not compare with those found at Six Flags, but you’ll still be able to catch that adrenaline rush, and the best part is the park is located right next to the beach. Talk about a great view! 

This staple San Diego amusement park is enjoyable for all ages, whether you’re a local or a tourist. They have the Vertical Plunge ride, the Beach Blaster, Krazy Kars, the Giant Dipper Roller coaster, and several other fun activities nearby, like minigolf and laser tag. While the beach is right around the corner and a lively place to walk or bike ride along, if you’re looking to lay out and chill and take an ocean dip, we highly recommend checking out some other nearby beaches that offer a more relaxing environment.

Some must-see beaches in San Diego are situated nearby La Jolla Cove. Lounging at one of La Jolla’s breathtaking beaches is one of the most relaxing things to do in San Diego because what feels better than being barefoot and grounding your toes beneath the sand as you gaze out to the horizon? At La Jolla Cove, you’ll see mussels, crabs, and unique rock formations across the different beaches. The tide pools can be playful and engaging, especially for your children, but be careful because it gets slippery! 

For the folks with kids, the Children’s Beach is a fabulous place to watch the seals in their natural habitat. Just to warn you, the smell might be a little off-putting, but you’ll get used to it after a while. There are also some restaurants overlooking the water, such as George’s at the Cove–a relatively fancy New American dining spot with lovely views–and Brockton Villa–another option for delicious brunch. You’ll also come across vendors selling all kinds of fun stuff, including San Diego souvenirs, for you to bring a taste of the coastal city back home with you.

If you’re still uncertain about what to see in San Diego in one day, we can assure you that visiting one of San Diego’s breweries will add a little bit of personality to your experience. While we might not get many rainy days out here, this is among our favorite things to do in San Diego when its raining. San Diego is known for its award-winning beer, which is interesting to learn about via a private tour. Take the edge off, avoid responsibilities, ditch the car keys and join a private group beer tour.

Still wondering what to see in San Diego in one day that allows you to enjoy ample sunshine? Torrey Pines is a classic site with cliffside hiking trails of various lengths, complete with jaw-dropping lookouts of the coastline. It is the ideal location to get some candid shots with scenic backdrops and observe the rarest native plant in the United States–the Torrey Pine–in its natural state. Golf enthusiasts, you’ve hit the jackpot at Torrey–you can even book a Tee time to play their golf course overlooking Glider Port and Blacks Beach. Hiking or golfing at Torrey are remarkable ways to soak in the juicy views of San Diego and the beaches from up above the water. 

The depths and versatility of La Jolla Cove make it the ideal place for scuba diving or snorkeling. It’s a low-commitment, highly engaging activity that you can enjoy for a few hours, and you won’t have to venture all the way out to sea to see some marine life, including fish, coral, algae, seals, and even dolphins. Snorkeling and scuba diving tours allow you to see what lies below the water’s surface and perhaps venture through the Century-old smuggler’s tunnel down through the cliffs to relax and dive, depending on which tour package you choose.

The San Diego Zoo is excellent if you want to take a day trip to San Diego from somewhere like Los Angeles. Venture through the Gorilla Forrest, hop aboard the Balboa Park miniature train, witness elephants, giant pandas, monkeys, and giraffes lounging and eating, ride the conservation carousel, or check out their 4D theater. Not only does the San Diego Zoo consistently rank among the top zoos worldwide, but it is a vibrant greenery-filled masterpiece of a zoo that one must see in person to understand. You could easily spend an entire day here if you so choose, so keep that in mind if your trip is time-sensitive. The Skyfari Aerial Tram is a San Diego Zoo must-do that gives you stellar views of the Zoo from an aerial perspective inside an open-air gondola, which doubles as an ideal snapshot moment. 

As you can see, there is no shortage of options for activities if you have 1 day in San Diego. If you have limited time but a desire to absorb all that San Diego has to provide, selecting a few items off this list–or all if you feel extra adventurous–would be the perfect way to spend your one day. The best time of year to visit San Diego doesn’t exist because all times are splendid, but we encourage you to get to booking your adventure-packed trip ironed out now so you can maximize your time here–no matter how short or long your stay is!

The banner image of the San Diego skyline is provided courtesy of Travellens.co

One Day in San Diego Itinerary: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Posted on Published: August 3, 2020  - Last updated: February 16, 2024

Categories Blog , California , City Guides , Travel Guides , United States

If you’re thinking about spending one day in San Diego, here’s how I visited the city and had an amazing time with my sister and my friends. There’s only so much you can see in a day, and we didn’t try to pack in too many activities.

For the most part, we wandered around San Diego by foot. We walked around the waterfront, through Balboa Park, and the Gaslamp Quarter. Similar to spending a day in Los Angeles and a day in San Francisco , you need to pick and choose how to spend your time. It’s important to find a good balance between seeing some places in a day but not packing your day with too much stuff.

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In addition, I’ve provided lots of alternative activities if there’s something else that piques your interest, too. There are also many suggestions for those who love sampling tasty food and drink when they travel, as well as some accommodation recommendations and travel tips towards the end of the blog post. Ready to spend one amazing day in San Diego, California? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in San Diego

There are many options for accommodations in San Diego ranging from budget stays to luxury hotels. Here are my suggestions for where to stay in San Diego for all budgets.

Budget Stay in San Diego

If you’re a traveler who is keeping to a budget, you’ll love the International Travelers House Downtown Hostel . The hostel is located inside an old Victorian home in the middle of downtown San Diego. There are both dorm rooms and private rooms, free Wi-Fi, private lockers and luggage storage, and there are even free adventure activities and a social hour through the hostel.

Mid-Range Stay in San Diego

Although it’s a five star property, I was pleasantly surprised to find the Kimpton Hotel Palomar San Diego within the mid-range budget pricing for hotel stays in the city. There are stylish guest rooms, a rooftop pool and bar, a fitness center, a room filled with vintage arcade games, and a Mexican restaurant on site. You’re within a one minute walk of the Gaslamp Quarter. This hotel is such a fantastic find!

Luxury Stay in San Diego

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel stay to make your trip to San Diego extra special, look no further than the Intercontinental San Diego . This urban boutique hotel is right on the waterfront, and the rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows for stunning views of the San Diego Bay. There are three dining venues, a rooftop bar, an outdoor yoga terrace, and a health and wellness center. You’re within walking distance of Navy Pier, Petco Park, and many of the tourist attractions that I’ve mentioned in this blog post.

Looking for More Options?

There are lots of amazing hotels in San Diego and Airbnb accommodations. Here’s a handy booking tool where you can see all of the Booking.com accommodations and Airbnbs in one place. It’s easy to compare prices and find the best rate for your trip.

Things to Do in San Diego: Get the San Diego Pass

First, if you’re planning on visiting any San Diego attractions, you might want to consider getting your hands on the San Diego Pass . Even if you only have one day in San Diego, you can make great use out of the one day pass. Depending on how long you’re staying in San Diego, you can buy a San Diego Pass for up to seven days.

The San Diego Pass provides free admission for over 35 activities, tours, and attractions in San Diego. There are also additional discounts on shopping, restaurants, and more activities. Some of the most interesting benefits that I can see from the San Diego Pass include:

• Admission to the USS Midway Museum
• Belmont Park all-access combo pass
• One hour San Diego harbor cruise
• San Diego Air and Space Museum admission
• Admission to the San Diego Natural History Museum
• Fleet Science Center with IMAX
• Admission to the San Diego Museum of Art
• 90 minute tandem kayak rental
• Whale watching by Hornblower Cruises
• Bike and kayak tours in Coronado and La Jolla
• All day bike rental
• Surfboard rental
• Speedboat adventures

This is only a small selection of the activities, tours and attractions that you can experience with the San Diego Pass. Get your pass right now and you’ll receive the pass instantly to use straight from your phone (or print it out, if you’d rather).

One Day in San Diego: Balboa Park

Out of all the best things to do in San Diego in one day, my favorite is Balboa Park . It belongs on every San Diego itinerary of must see places, and it’s a wonderful spot that I’d love to visit again in the future. Balboa Park is a National Historic Landmark, it’s on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s one of the Great Places in America.

With all of those accolades, Balboa Park strives to be at the top of the list for sustainability. It’s a refuge for wildlife, a vast natural space for outdoor activities, and it’s bursting with experiences in the realm of science, arts, and culture.

The Balboa Park Cultural Partnership has 10 LEED certified buildings, and they are leading the way with water and energy efficiency projects. They’ve helped reduce 5,139 metric tons of carbon dioxide since 2009, which is the equivalent to the emissions from over 1000 cars driven for a year.

Things to Do in Balboa Park

It’s easy to spend the entire day or longer at Balboa Park, especially if you want to visit the museums. Balboa Park is home to museums, gardens, forests, and playgrounds. You can admire intriguing architecture or catch a cultural performance, like musicals, plays and orchestras.

Take a walk through one or several of Balboa Park’s gardens. They’re a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch, relaxing beneath a century-old tree, or feel free to stop and smell the roses (literally!). There’s the 1935 (Old) Cactus Garden, the Alcazar Garden (modeled after the garden at Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain), the Australian Garden, the California Native Plant Garden, the Desert Garden, and the Japanese Friendship Garden, to name a few. Strolling through the gardens at Balboa Park is one of the best things to do in San Diego.

If its culture and history you seek, you must visit one of Balboa Park’s 17 museums with their massive collections. There’s really something for every interest, including the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Photographic Arts, the Fleet Science Center, the San Diego Art Institute, the San Diego Automotive Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, the San Diego Automotive Museum, the San Diego Museum of Man, and more.

To get a great feel for the park in a short amount of time, why not take a small group, two hour walking tour of Balboa Park with a local guide? You’ll learn all about the park and visit the highlights, which is perfect if you only have one day in San Diego.

Visit a Local Brewery in San Diego

San Diego has dozens of craft breweries and microbreweries right within the city. There’s a good chance that there’s a brewery within walking distance of wherever you happen to be in the city. During our one day in San Diego, we walked over to Mission Brewery near Petco Park. I was really impressed with the variety of beer and seasonal beer, as well as the overall atmosphere and service.

Mission Brewery has a really interesting history. The brewing company started in 1913 and went out of business during Prohibition. However, in 2007, a home brewer reestablished the brand as a microbrewery and set up shop in the historic Wonder Bread building that dates back to 1894. This is where you’ll find the brewery and the tasting room.

We all decided to order beer flights with varieties that tempted our individual tastes, and I really enjoyed all of my beer (and I ordered a root beer, too!). If you aren’t in the neighborhood of Mission Brewery, here’s a list of San Diego breweries so you can find a brewery near you. If you’re really into drinking beer and trying new breweries, here’s a fantastic San Diego brewery tour that takes place in the evening, leaving the day open for other adventures.

Eat Delicious Vegan Meals

There are so many amazing vegan-friendly and vegan restaurants in San Diego that it will be hard to choose just one or two for the day. Eating all of the yummy vegan food is one of the best things to do in San Diego. Thankfully, a California native and friend of mine wrote this brilliant vegan San Diego guide for our site. Here are a few suggestions where you really can’t go wrong.

Plant Power Fast Food

Plant Power Fast Food (2204 Sunset Cliffs Blvd ) is a popular Southern California fast food vegan chain, and they have two restaurants in San Diego. Check out their Ocean Beach location, near the beach and within a cool and kitschy bohemian neighborhood.

On the menu, you’ll find some typical American eats that are made healthier by virtue of being vegan, like burgers, wraps, and frozen treats. Try The Iconic Burger or The Holy Guacamole (if you’re a fan of spicy food), as well as their organic sodas or vegan old-fashioned milkshakes. It’s one of the best vegan restaurants in San Diego and all over California. 

The Purple Mint Vegan Bistro

The Purple Mint Vegan Bistro   (6171 Mission Gorge Rd #118 ) is a family owned and operated vegan restaurant in San Diego. They serve Vietnamese and Pan-Asian dishes that are super yummy, and the service is welcoming and friendly. Even though their location in Mission Valley doesn’t have any interesting features (it’s in a shopping plaza), the delicious food more than makes up for the ambiance. 

You’ll find a wide selection of Asian food in huge portions, so bring your appetite! They have vegan curry, pho, banh mi sandwiches, and a number of other comfort Asian dishes. Make sure to try their vegan pho, eggplant & tofu delight, or their “prawns” in garlic noodles.  Oh, and they’ve got fantastic Thai iced tea if you’re looking for a caffeine kick. 

Trilogy Sanctuary

Trilogy Sanctuary (Rooftop & Level 3, 7650 Girard Ave Suite 400 ) is a healthy vegan cafe and yoga studio combo in the La Jolla area of San Diego. It’s also a rooftop cafe so you can soak up all those sparkling ocean views and San Diego sunshine while filling your body with good ol’ vegan nutrition. This is where you can practice your down dog then sit down to a heaping Acai bowl or filling smoothie after practice, a great idea if you’re visiting San Diego on a Sunday.

Their menu is 100% vegan, organic, gluten-free, soy free, and doesn’t include any refined sugar. They also offer aerial yoga classes (in addition to traditional yoga) if you’re feeling adventurous in your practice. Make sure to try their traditional Acai bowl and falafel tacos. 

San Diego in a Day: Gaslamp Quarter

The Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego spans 16 blocks, and it features Victorian architecture alongside modern buildings. Former saloons and brothels are now restaurants and nightclubs. While it’s best known for its nightlife, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, it’s a great place to explore on your 1 day in San Diego.

By day, there are places to go shopping, delightful restaurants and cafes, and you’ll want to check out all of the impressive details on the old buildings. By night, there are lots of pubs and bars to visit, even if you aren’t a fan of the typical nightclub environment. For instance, the Shout! House is a dueling piano bar featuring classic rock sing-a-longs. Noble Experiment is a speakeasy hidden behind a secret door. And Vin de Syrah is another hidden lounge with DJs, cocktails, and small bites.

From the Gaslamp Quarter, it’s a short walk to the USS Midway Museum, a historical naval aircraft carrier museum at Navy Pier. There’s a large collection of US aircraft and several exhibitions on board. It’s a must visit if you’re a fan of aviation history or US history in general. If you didn’t purchase the San Diego Pass (which allows free entry), you can buy a skip-the-line ticket to the USS Midway Museum to save valuable time on your one day in San Diego.

Check Out Local Cafes

Visiting local coffee shops is one of my favorite things to do as I travel, and San Diego was no exception. As it was my friend’s birthday and he’s a massive fan of dessert, we ventured over to Le Parfait Paris (555 G Street) for dessert and coffee towards the end of our one day in San Diego. It’s a Parisian patisserie in the Gaslamp Quarter with tons of French desserts. While they don’t have any vegan desserts, I really enjoyed my rich and flavorful Americano.

Looking for more coffee shops in San Diego? I recommend getting your caffeine fix at:

• Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (3 locations in San Diego)
• Better Buzz Coffee (Multiple San Diego locations)
• James Coffee Co (3 San Diego cafes)
• Dark Horse Coffee Roasters (they have vegan donuts! 5 locations in San Diego)

Watch the Sunset in San Diego

You’re in California, so you’re going to want to soak up those world famous sunsets! One of the best ways to wrap up your wonderful day in San Diego is by watching the sun go down. There are numerous places to add a sunset viewing to your San Diego itinerary.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park seems like the obvious choice. After all, the word “sunset” is right there in its name. It’s a 68 acre park on the Pacific Ocean and Point Loma. You can go for a wander around this conservation area, admiring sea caves, rugged bluffs, and natural arches. It also happens to be an amazing spot to watch the sunset. You might even spot migrating California gray whales from this location.

If you’re out at Mission Bay, Sunset Point Park is another great place to watch the sunset. There’s an open grassy park here where you can relax on a blanket and witness one of nature’s dazzling performances. If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, why not rent a kayak at Mission Bay? You can watch the sunset from your own watercraft!

More Ideas for Your San Diego Itinerary

If you have more than a day in San Diego, here are some more ideas for an action packed San Diego itinerary. Feel free to add or swap out these activities in place of other ones on the list. No matter what you choose to do in San Diego, you’re sure to have a memorable day.

Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is a fantastic addition to any San Diego itinerary, even if you’re only able to see San Diego in a day. It was California’s first settlement, dating back to 1769. There are shops, gardens, and restaurants featuring delicious Mexican food. There are many historic sites, including Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. History comes to life through interactive displays and demonstrations.

Coronado Beach

Cross the Coronado Bay Bridge to reach Coronado Island where you’ll find a picture perfect beach and the iconic Hotel Del Coronado . If you’re looking for a beach day, Coronado Beach has some of the softest and cleanest sand in California. Besides the beach and checking out the elegant hotel for a meal or a drink, there isn’t much more to do on Coronado. It can get quite busy there, so you might want to visit earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

Torrey Pines State Park is one of the best places to go hiking in San Diego and it’s only a short drive from downtown San Diego. If I had more than one day in San Diego, I’d head straight to Torrey Pines for the oceanfront trails and potential dolphin sightings.

It’s home to one of the most endangered pine trees in the world, and there are over 400 species of wildflowers that bloom mostly in late winter and spring. If you’re a fan of hiking and looking for more hiking trips, here are some more amazing hikes in San Diego to add to your bucket list.

Belmont Park and Mission Beach

The Mission Beach Boardwalk is another iconic spot in San Diego with beautiful views of the ocean. Take a stroll along the boardwalk for a relaxing jaunt, and stop at any cafes or restaurants along the way. Of course, Mission Beach is also home to a fabulous beach where you could easily spend the entire day.

You can also discover Belmont Park at Mission Beach, an amusement park that opened in 1925. It’s a classic carnival and midway right next to the beach with a wooden roller coaster. You can walk around Belmont Park for free, but you’ll need to buy tickets for the rides.

La Jolla Cove

La Jolla Cove is a picturesque coastal neighborhood in San Diego with a little beach and incredible scenery. You’ll likely be able to see seals and sea lions lounging on the rocks, as well as interesting rock arches and sea caves.

You can go snorkeling or scuba diving here for the opportunity to spot leopard sharks and many species of fish. The best time of year to visit in order to witness the leopard sharks is August and September, although it’s possible to see them from June through to November.

Activities in San Diego

Besides all of the above San Diego attractions, there are so many things to do in San Diego that you’ll surely need more than one day. If you like to keep active on holidays with lots of outdoor activities, here are a few that you’ll find in abundance in San Diego:

• Surfing: Try a 1.5 hour surf lesson at La Jolla
• Kayaking: Take a kayaking tour of the 7 caves at La Jolla
• Scuba Diving
• Bike Riding
• Stand Up Paddle Boarding: Rent a SUP for fun and exercise out on the water

Getting Around San Diego

When I visited San Diego for the day, I walked around everywhere on my own two feet. I walked around Navy Pier, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, down around Petco Park, and more. If you’re spending most of your time in downtown San Diego, it’s very walkable and you won’t need to plan for other modes of transportation.

However, I feel like not having a rental car really did restrict where I was able to visit. If I had access to a rental car in San Diego, I’d consider visiting Old Town San Diego, Torrey Pines, La Jolla Cove, and other places that make San Diego such a special destination. I suggest comparing rates to find cheap car rentals in San Diego so you can have the freedom to go wherever you want.

Visiting multiple destinations in California? It’s easy to drive up the coast when you have your own rental car! Here is my itinerary for spending two days in Los Angeles for before or after your trip to San Diego. I’ve also rated both San Francisco and LA as the best places to live in the USA if you’re a frequent flyer, so maybe you’ll want to be permanently based in California.

Want to see more photos of San Diego?

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Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego

Planning your San Diego itinerary and have some questions? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about San Diego from visitors.

Here are the best things to see and do in San Diego: Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines State Reserve, visit local breweries, the Mission Beach Boardwalk, Belmont Park, Old Town San Diego, and Coronado Beach.

You can go kayaking, biking, stand up paddle boarding, swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing.

You can visit San Diego in a day and it’s also possible to visit San Diego in a weekend. I recommend at least 2-3 days in San Diego for the best trip.

Absolutely! We didn’t feel unsafe walking around San Diego at all. In fact, San Diego is safer than 34% of other cities in the United States. Make sure you use common sense and practice safety as you would in any major city around the world.

The best time of year to visit San Diego are the shoulder seasons: March to May and September to November. The prices are better, the city is less busy, and the weather is ideal for walking around and soaking up the sunshine. December is the coldest month of the year to travel to San Diego.

More Things to Do in California

Looking for more things to do in California? Here are more travel guides to this beautiful US state.

• Fun Things to Do in Huntington Beach, CA
• One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary
• 2 Days in Los Angeles Itinerar y
• One Day in San Diego Itinerary
• 10 Best Vegan Restaurants in San Diego
• 24 Hours in San Francisco
• Fun Things to Do in Buena Park

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

San Diego in One Day: What to See and What to Skip

A Pacific Coast paradise best known for miles of surf, sand, and sun. San Diego is a Southern California mecca you don’t want to miss.

Nevertheless, if you only have one day in San Diego, how do you make the most of your time spent in America’s Finest City? Follow along to discover everything you need to know about a day in San Diego .

An ideal day trip destination from Los Angeles, the driving distance to San Diego is a little over two hours. Journey to this coastal city for loads of outdoor adventure plus top-tier museums, parks, zoos, and food.

You’ll find no shortage of things to do, whether you choose to explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter by nightfall. Or chow down on tacos and margaritas before catching an ionic Hotel Coronado sunset.

See the sea lions at La Jolla Cove, or educate little ones on dinosaur fossils and dazzling gems at the Natural History Museum.

San Diego in one day is a tight squeeze. But, by prioritizing your interests you’ll uncover the perfect way for you to explore San Diego.

Ready to reveal the mystery of what to see in San Diego in 1 day? Read on…

San Diego Hotels

Before we dive into what to see in San Diego in one day, let’s secure those lodgings. Take the stress out of your jam-packed day trip when you reserve any of our San Diego Hotels & Resorts  ahead of time.

Relax after your full itinerary of body surfing, whale watching, and miniature train rides in a full-scale beachfront resort. Or explore downtown San Diego courtesy of your boutique-style suite.

From rooftop cocktails to kid-friendly wading pools, we offer accommodation options for every type of traveler.

San Diego in One Day

Long layover or just sightseeing your way through the Golden State? Whatever your reason for your one day trip to San Diego, we’ve got you covered.

Before we let you in on all of our little San Diego secrets on what to see and what to skip, take a minute to brainstorm how you want to spend your 24 hours in America’s Finest City.

If you are a certified foodie, you should design your trip around gourmet tours filled with homemade tortillas, tequila, and the delights of Little Italy. Traveling with tots? Head to the San Diego Zoo for adventures Down Under with Koalas. Or spring for a real African savannah experience at San Diego Zoo Safari Park .

Related Post: Hidden Gems in San Diego: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Secret Spots

Tourists with a hunger for history will do well to trek through Old Town on a Trolley Tour. Or pay a visit to the uber-haunted Whaley House Museum.

While it can be tempting to try to do it all in San Diego, we recommend choosing 2 to 3 top-tier tours and attractions to focus on. This will allow you to appreciate this SoCal city without resorting to speeding through every site at a breakneck pace.

Things to Do in San Diego

Grab a pen because we are about to hand you the keys to an ideal one day in San Diego itinerary. No matter if you’ve got your eye on witnessing the majestic gray whale migration. Or wish to stay landbound while you stroll through the Natural History Museum, there’s simply nothing worth skipping.

Load up on piping hot stacks of pancakes, bacon, and eggs at Richard Walker’s Pancake House before tackling a day of Balboa Park fun. Or, savor Chilaquiles and a classic SoCal burrito at Breakfast Republic before exploring Seaport Village and the USS Midway Museum .

All set to hand-pick your attractions for a perfect day in San Diego? Let’s go!

Balboa Park

While we hate to play favorites, no visit to San Diego is complete without a visit to Balboa Park. Clocking in at a sprawling 1,200 acres, Balboa Park is home to a medley of interactive museums, a world-famous Zoo, and the Old Globe Theatre.

For a dreamy day of park pleasure, combine your San Diego Zoo outing with a visit to the San Diego Natural History Museum  or the San Diego Museum of Art. Considered one of the best zoos in the country, animal lovers from all over will flip over aerial Skyfari rides and glimpses of monstrous Komodo dragons.

Pro Tip: Make quick work of the park’s many offerings when you take advantage of the free Balboa Park Tram. This handy public transportation offers loops around the cultural district throughout the day to get you within a 10-minute walk to many of the Park’s most popular destinations.

Whale Watching

San Diego’s glittering Bay is considered a crowning jewel of this seaside oasis. If your one-day visit happens to coincide with the whale-watching season, we strongly urge you to hop aboard a 2.5-hour tour.

Related Post: San Diego Whale Watching: In-Depth Guide to Seasons, Locations, and Tours

A San Diego Whale Watching Cruise by Flagship Cruises  is your ticket to a first-hand look at these massive mammals’ 10,000-mile migration. Every year 20,000 gray whales migrate from the Bering Sea to the lagoons of Baja California and back again.

In addition to full breaches and fin slaps, guests will be privy to a medley of other sea creatures including fin whales, humpbacks, minke whales, dolphins, sea lions, and more.

Historic Gaslamp Quarter

Looking for a quick overview of America’s Finest City in under three hours? Climb aboard for hours of world-class sightseeing with the original Old Town Trolley Tours San Diego: Hop-On Hop-Off .

From panoramic views of the Big Bay from atop the 2-mile-long Coronado bridge to stops in the birthplace of California, the Embarcadero, you’ll see it all. For over 20 years Old Town Trolley Tours has been showing visitors the highlights of San Diego.

Spend as long as you like at each stop as you cover everywhere from Little Italy to Balboa Park.

Whaley House Museum and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Got a hankering for some sinister spooky fun? If haunted houses and panorama investigations make your heart go pitter patter there’s no missing a stop at the Whaley House Museum.

A central pillar in the Old Town, this iconic Greek Revival house was constructed in 1856 by Thomas Whaley using bricks from his very own brickyard. Dive into the eerie legacy of this possessed home which many claim was struck by tragedy long before construction began.

Well known as the site where horse thief Yankee Jim Robinson was publicly executed. Visitors can take their pick of haunted day or evening tours .

Bring your pulse back to its baseline and uncover a different side of history when you swing by the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park . Brush up on San Diego of the 1800s as you witness its transformation from a Mexican pueblo to an American settlement.

Related Post: San Diego at Night: 18 Best Nightlife Activities

Stroll by the five ordinal adobe buildings, experience the inner workings of the blacksmith shop and cuddle up with one of the park’s furry burros.

Hotel del Coronado and Cabrillo National Monument

Combine your classic San Diego history with some outdoor adventure when you tackle the Hotel del Coronado and the Cabrillo National Monument on the same day. Swing by Cabrillo National Monument and scour tidepools for urchins and anemones. Or, bring along some proper footwear for a hike on the Bayside Trail.

This 2.5 trail delivers breathtaking views of the ocean, Ballast Point, downtown, Coronado Island, and Tijuana. Next, channel your inner Marilyn Monroe when you visit the Hotel del Coronado .

This behemoth testament to Victorian architecture instantly conjures images of fairytales and was the setting for the famous flick Some Like It Hot. Soak up some sun beachside and refresh with a cocktail on the Sun Deck. Or, wind down your day of Vitamin Sea with a sweet treat from Sundaes Ice Cream and Gelateria.

La Jolla Cove and Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography

Sunsets, sea lions, and sharks oh my! Give your one day in San Diego a distinct marine spin, when you take your time uncovering the secrets of La Jolla Cove and the Birch Aquarium. Appreciate the sunshine and channel your inner mermaid with a morning of swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking at La Jolla Cove. Stay dry with a beach stroll, or whip out that camera to document the basking La Jolla seals.

Related Post: Things to Do in La Jolla California – 9 Must-Try Activities

Next, make a beeline for the groundbreaking facilities of the Birch Aquarium at Scripps . With an emphasis on sustainability, community, and play, Birch delivers oodles of hands-on learning opportunities, exhibits, and animals.

Watch the adorable waddling walks of their Little Blue Penguins, or appreciate the mesmerizing patterns of the spotted Leopard Sharks. Be sure to stop by the Preuss Tide Pool Plaza on a sunny day for some sweeping ocean views and touch some of the spiky and soft tentacled tide pool residents.

San Diego Bay Cruise and Seaport Village

Feeling nautical? Gain a sweet new perspective on this city of sunshine and sand, when you merge your Seaport Village sojourn with a San Diego Bay Cruise . Elect to cruise through the Bay with the longest-running harbor company as you revel in jaw-dropping views of Point Loma, the Cabrillo National Monument, Seaport Village, and more.

More in the mood for an after-dark adventure? Opt for a dinner cruise complete with complimentary champagne and bear witness to the sparkle of the city skyline from aboard your luxury yacht.

Intrigued by the quaint charm of Seaport Village ? Post your ocean escape, make a detour for some chic souvenir shopping. Then enjoy a tantalizing supper of fish and chips, lobster rolls, and ceviche.

Be sure to stick around for a ride on the beautifully hand-carved historic carousel which dates back to 1895.

More into planning your getaways around the most hyped brunch places or the latest TikTok food trend? Make your stomach undeniably happy when you spend an entire day munching your way through San Diego’s most luscious food offerings.

A melting pot of vibrant cuisines from around the world. There are endless ways to experience the gastronomical pleasures of America’s Finest City:

• Discover Californian Melt burgers, fish tacos, and locally produced ice cream downtown with Secret Food Tours San Diego .
• Mamma Mia! Get a taste of the Old Country with Pizza, Pasta, and Piazzas . Sip on fruity sangria, learn about the history of Little Italy, and feast on piles of handmade pasta.
• Fill up your tummy with some spooky tales, custom tequila cocktails, and freshly made tortillas on this 2.5-hour Tequila, Tacos, and Tombstones Tour .
• Ladies of the night, prohibition-era gangsters, and morsels of sizzling flatbreads come together on this Brothels, Bites, and Booze Food Tour . Conquer the nefarious history of the Gaslamp Quarter as you sample unique cocktails and microbrewery concoctions.

While there may be more than a million reasons to spend more than 1 day in San Diego. We know that sometimes there’s simply no time to traverse every inch of California’s second-largest city.

Take on your day of national monuments, haunted museums, and body surfing in stride.

From tide pool scavenger hunts to Buddhist sculptures at the San Diego Museum of Art. This beachy city beckons with boatloads of culture, nature, and history.

Whether you choose to focus on exploring the Old Point Loma Lighthouse at the Cabrillo National Monument. Or splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon safari adventure, there’s no wrong way to see America’s Finest City.

Tell us, What Would You See in San Diego in One Day?

Did we miss any of your favorite San Diego attractions?

Leave a comment below!

Written by Isis Maya Nissman

A New York native, Isis-Maya spent most of her professional life working in TV production until a vacation whisked her away to Central...

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How To Spend One Day In San Diego: What To See, Eat & Do

Posted on Published: July 13, 2019  - Last updated: December 5, 2023

Categories North America , California , Travel

San Diego California is known for having the perfect weather all year round, a world renowned zoo , and outdoor activities galore. With so much to see and do, it’s hard to narrow it down if you only have one day in San Diego.

Nonetheless, you can see San Diego in one day if that’s all the time you have. This is my San Diego one day itinerary that gives you a mix of coastal and city life.

From discovering hidden gems in La Jolla and Coronado to the bustling action of the Gaslamp Quarter and lively seaport. It’s all about relaxing, seeing the sights, and enjoying everything San Diego has to offer in such a short amount of time.

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

California Resources You May Find Helpful

Digital Travel Planner Printout:  E tsy

Book plane tickets:   Skyscanner   Book hotels:   Booking.com   Car Rental : enterprise.com Organized Tours : Viator

Other posts you may be interested in reading… How To Plan Your Los Angeles Vacation | How To Plan The Ultimate Vacation To Santa Monica

Where Is San Diego

San Diego is in California, about a two and a half hour drive from Los Angeles (making it very doable to see San Diego in a one day trip from there). It’s the last major California city before entering Mexico!

Is One Day In San Diego Enough Time?

One day in any larger city is rarely enough time to see it all. But if one day in San Diego is all you have, then you’ll still be able to see a good chunk of it, and even some popular surrounding attractions if you want.

Unfortunately, if you were hoping to visit the San Diego Zoo or even Sea World, those are both full day activities in themselves. In that case, I would recommend a minimum of two days so you have enough time to explore both the city and the zoo or sea world.

How To Get To San Diego?

You can fly in to the San Diego International Airport, take a train, bus, or drive for a San Diego one day trip.

Funny enough, if you’re coming from Los Angeles, all the modes of transportation (besides flying) takes about the same amount of time (2-2.5 hours). Hands down, the easiest way to get to San Diego is to rent a car and drive, and like most California cities, you’ll be thankful when you have a car once you’re there.

But if you can’t rent a car, check out the other options for getting to San Diego here . Alternatively, you can also go on an organized tour ( see Viator tour from Los Angeles ) which will be the least stressful and take care of all the activities and transportation for you.

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

Driving Tips San Diego One Day Trip From Los Angeles

If you’ve decided to drive from Los Angeles to San Diego for the day here are some things to know about the drive. First, prepare yourself for spectacular ocean views, because the drive will take you on the I-5 along the Pacific Ocean.

You have to watch out for tolls though! If you’re using Google Maps, make sure to turn on “Avoid Tolls” in your settings. If you don’t, it’ll take you onto the 73 toll road through Orange County. They charge you automatically; it’s about a $10 (USD) toll, and you only end up saving about 10 minutes.

Plus! If you’re in a rental car, some companies charge you an administration fee for using the toll road. So it was closer to a $15 toll for us.

One Day In San Diego? You’ll Need To Rent A Car

No matter how you arrive for one day in San Diego, you’ll most likely want to rent a car. having a car just gives you so much more flexibility.

It’s obviously most convenient to choose a rental place closest to your hotel for an easy pickup and drop off. But if you’re looking for the cheapest deal, be sure to check out Priceline. I’ve rented from both  Budget  and  Enterprise  and have no complaints about either.

When you’re renting the car, double check the car rental operating hours, or ask if there’s a drop off zone to leave the car and keys. Because you’re only going on a San Diego one day trip, you’ll probably get back after the car rental closes and you want to avoid having to deal with the car overnight.

One Day In San Diego Organized Tours

Need A Place To Stay In San Diego?

We just visited San Diego for the day from Los Angeles, but I found these hotels if you need a place to stay in San Diego.

Best Location : Stay in the heart of Downtown San Diego at the Staypineapple, Hotel Z. They have everything you need at this pineapple themed hotel and more! Like they offer free bikes to their guests that you can take around San Diego for the day! See room rates & availability .

Beach Vibes : Looking to get away from the city? El Cordova hotel, a Spanish style hotel on Coronado Island, is the ultimate beach vacation. Minutes from the beach and the historic Hotel Del Coronado. But you also never have to leave, with a private pool, 2 on-site restaurants and shopping! See room rates & availability .

Airport Stay : If you only have one day in San Diego, and you’re flying in or out it might be convenient to stay near the airport. I always love staying at Hampton Inns for their consistent quality and free breakfast! See room rates & availability .

For more accommodation options, click here .

San Diego One Day Itinerary

As I mentioned, my San Diego one day itinerary combines sightseeing in the city and it’s surroundings like La Jolla and Coronado Island.

The San Diego Zoo, which is a main attraction, isn’t included in my itinerary as you can easily spend an entire day there.

You might also be interested in reading…

How To Plan Your Los Angeles Vacation

Start Your San Diego One Day Trip In La Jolla

The first stop on my San Diego one day itinerary is the seaside town of La Jolla (pronounced La Hoya). It’s still about a 40-minute drive away from San Diego, but it’s a nice place to stop to cut the drive in half if you’re coming from Los Angeles .

I recommend making three stops in La Jolla, the La Jolla cove swing, the town, and Rubio’s for lunch!

1: The Hidden La Jolla Cove Swing & Overhead Views

Before you even make it into the city, find the hidden La Jolla cove swing for an overhead view of La Jolla. There are two ways to get there: the easy way, or the hard way.

If you’re more of an outdoorsy person, read this guide for  how to hike to the swing . But if you’re like me, you can opt for the less than 2-minute hike to the swing and view.

For the simple hike, drive to the Birch Aquarium parking lot. You can park here for 3 hours for free. At the southernmost point of the lot, you’ll see a little path with a tiny bridge. Cross the bridge and walk up the path for about 2 minutes, you’ll see the swing right away.

Never forget a favourite travel memory

Keep track of your travels every day with my digital and printable travel journal . Use it on the go on your phone or tablet, or print it out!

Take it all in once you’re at the top, snap some pics, relax with a book…etc. Or, if you’re feeling up for more of a hike, you can continue on the path through desert hills. Just a heads up, you might encounter some wildlife among the cactuses and desert terrain.

I am one to scare quite easily, so I didn’t make it that much further on the path. A gecko suddenly scurried across my path sending me running the other way. I think my yelp scared it just as much as it scared me.

2: Head Into La Jolla Town

Next item on the agenda is to actually explore the town you were just admiring from above. Here, park your car in the first spot you find, they’re limited but free! 

Don’t waste too much time looking for a parking spot though (you only have one day in San Diego remember!). There are parking lots where most shops and restaurants will validate it if you buy something.

I recommend stopping by Jim’s Sunny Sea Side cave first. It looks like a simple store on the outside, but once inside you have access to a La Jolla Cove at sea level.

For merely $5/ person (yes, they accept car!), you’ll get a perspective typically only visible if you were in a kayak. There’s a hidden man-made tunnel in the store, that leads you down 145 steps to a cave.

Be careful as you walk down, the steps can get pretty slippery and the ceilings are quite low at certain points. But it’s a lot of fun and the view is worth it at the end. 

After the cave, walk a bit further into town to see the beach and do some boutique shopping. If you’re an outdoorsy person, you can rent snorkelling gear, go kayaking, or go scuba diving on the shores.

Keep an eye out for the sea lions sunbathing on the rocks. FYI, they’re protected under California state law, so keep your distance (legally, that should be at least 20 feet).

3: Lunch Time at Rubio’s

Once you get your shopping and beach fix, it’s lunchtime! I’m sure there are many good coastal restaurants to try, but I’m sure they’re also very expensive. Instead, jump back into the car for a 5-minute drive to Rubio’s.

Rubio’s is a chain restaurant, with franchises all over the southern United States. But they first opened in none other than San Diego itself. They’re also the creators of the fish taco, so make sure you order one! 

And, as a bonus, there’s a parking lot here so you don’t have to worry about finding another spot.

Next Stop Coronado Island

Next stop on my San Diego one day itinerary is Coronado Island. Coronado Island is a resort island in the San Diego Bay. It’s known for the Coronado bridge, having the best beach in America, and being home to the historic Hotel del Coronado.

The Coronado bridge connects San Diego and Coronado over the bay. It’s free to drive across and offers outstanding views along the way.

Once over the bridge, you’ll want to see the beach everyone’s raving about. The Coronado beach offers a beautiful place to sit and relax, and it’s not too overcrowded either. You’ll immediately see why it’s voted the best beach in American year after year.

Along the same beach is Hotel del Coronado (on the south side). Built in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado was featured in the Marilyn Monroe film “Some Like It Hot” ( rent it on Amazon ) and it’s become one of the biggest attractions on the island.

The hotel is accessible for anyone to visit, there are stores and restaurants to enjoy. If you want to see the infamous hotel, I recommend parking on Ocean Blvd or Ferry Landing Market Place and walking along the beach (about 15 minutes). Parking here is free, otherwise, it’ll cost you $20/hour for valet parking at the hotel.

We made that mistake of paying for Valet Parking and then felt we couldn’t spend any more money at the hotel. Also just a heads up, it’s really expensive to eat there, we couldn’t even afford a coffee… Read more about the beach  here .

Finally Visit The City Centre: Things To Do In San Diego

Finally, it’s time to visit the city centre. The main area to visit is the Gaslamp Quarter known for its vibrant nightlife scene. During the day, this neighbourhood is very enjoyable to walk around. You can hit up some local pubs, shops, or cafés.

We opted to stop at the California classic, Ghirardelli Chocolate shop. This is one of only a few Ghirardelli locations in California. The ice cream options are delicious, but you can definitely order one to share, they’re huge!

If you’re a baseball fan (like my partner) you can stop by Pedro’s stadium it’s only a few blocks away. (Before you go, check if there’s a game  on the day you’re going!)

Parking Tip In Downtown San Diego One Day Trip

Parking in downtown San Diego shouldn’t have been as difficult as it was for us. There are several lots and street parking. We unknowingly visited on a game day (a baseball game that is!). This doubled the price of the parking lots, and all the street spots were taken.

We ended up parking on Union St (And W A St). It’s a bit of a walk (15 minutes) to the Gaslamp Quarter, but there were tons of spots there.

If you happen to be there on a Sunday, street parking is free, so it might also make it harder to find a spot. With only one day in San Diego, you don’t want to be wasting time finding parking spots.

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You Can’t Leave San Diego Without Stopping At The Pier

Visiting the San Diego pier is a must do even with only one day in San Diego The pier is on the edge of downtown San Diego. This is where you’ll find my favourite statue: the Unconditional Surrender Statue, and the USS Midway. 

The USS Midway is aircraft carrier ship that’s been turned into a museum ( book tickets here ). This is great activity for families to enjoy. If you are interested in touring the ship, make sure to get here before 4 (consider going before the Gaslamp Quarter).

Parking tip! You don’t have to stress about parking here, there is a paid lot right next to the USS Midway.

End Your Day At A San Diego Brewery

After touring and walking around, you’ve probably built up quite an appetite. In typical laid back California style, San Diego has a large local brewery scene.

I recommend hitting up Stone Brewery in Shelter Island. It has a beautiful outdoor patio where you can grab a bite to eat, and it starts you on your journey home (if you’re going back to L.A.).

And if that didn’t sell you, maybe their peanut butter flavoured beer will entice you (it was surprisingly very refreshing and ended up being my favourite flavour!).

Easily Rate & Compare Each Beer

Rate each new beer you try from a brewery to find your favourite one with my digital and printable beer flight scorecard . See it on Etsy.

If the food doesn’t tickle your fancy here, an alternative to Stone Brewery is the Public Market right next door.

We only stumbled upon it as we were leaving but it seemed like a pretty cool and relaxed place to eat. They offer a lot of different cuisines, I’m sure the whole family could find something to eat here.

Just a heads up, it’s close to the airport so you do get a lot of planes flying overhead.

Enjoy Sunset At Scripps Pier

If you’re not ready to head back just yet, stop at Scripps Pier to watch the sunset. It’s right below Birch Aquarium, where the hidden La Jolla cove swing lives. 

Twice throughout the year, the sunset aligns perfectly with the beams of the pier. But even if you’re timing doesn’t add up, it’s still a beautiful sunset on the beach (weather permitting, of course)!

We arrived right on time for sunset and a completely overcast sky. Just our luck!

Alternative Things To Do In San Diego

There are so many things to do in San Diego that it’s easy to swap out any one of my activities from my suggested San Diego one day itinerary with something you’d enjoy more. This is just how we decided to spend our one day in San Diego.

Some other activities in San Diego are:

Harper’s Topiary Gardens – a San Diego couple decided to transform their front-lawn shrubs into art pieces. From what I understand, this is more of a drive-by activity. A recommendation from Hidden San Diego to only go here if you find yourself in the area.  Read more about it here . 

Queen Califas Magical Circle is Barcelona in California! They’re only open certain days and hours a week though, which is why we couldn’t visit.  Check the times here . 

Not too far from the San Diego Zoo is the Spruce St. suspension bridge high up in the trees that makes for a great outdoor activity and stunning pictures. You can find more information here .

And of course, a pretty big San Diego attraction is the San Diego Zoo. But, like I said, this is really a one day activity in itself.  Info Here .

Psst! I earn a bit of extra money if you book your stay through my link… but there’s no additional cost for you!

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More California Guides

• Explore Long Beach California
• What To Do In Santa Monica
• What To Do In Los Angeles
• Which Hollywood Studio Should You Visit? Paramount, Warner Brothers, Sony, or Universal?

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How to Make the Most of Your Time in Long Beach California -

Saturday 14th of March 2020

[…] beach is a small city when compared to Los Angeles or San Diego. If you stay in a central location you can walk almost everywhere you want to […]

Saturday 13th of July 2019

Goodness how beautiful does this look! I want to sit on that swing and stand in front of that colourful sign. I’ve never been and now I want to go so bad 🙈

Sunday 14th of July 2019

It really is as beautiful as the pics make it look, you could get lost in a daydream there!

How to Spend One Day in La Jolla: Guide, Itinerary, Tips, and Map

Every time we travel to San Diego, its coastal area screams for our attention, inevitably seducing us to spend the whole day in La Jolla. 

Last updated: January 21, 2023

How to Spend One Day in La Jolla: Guide, Itinerary, Map, and Everything You Need to Know

Incredibly charming, surprisingly relaxing, and unapologetically luxurious, La Jolla is the most popular neighborhood of San Diego . “ The Jewel ” of the city is how locals nicknamed this small seaside paradise. Whether you search for crashing waves and abundant marine wildlife or long for upscale village atmosphere, the place has it all.

Packed with a myriad of iconic places to explore and various things to do within just the seven miles of the gorgeous coastline, La Jolla makes every day special. Be ready for a casual morning and busy afternoon that gradually slips into an unforgettable evening at a top-notch restaurant with breathtaking views of the ocean. One day in La Jolla makes your California dream come true. No doubt about it!

How to Spend One Day in La Jolla: Itinerary and Guide

After spending more time in this posh seaside neighborhood where laid-back beach culture edges with the luxurious lifestyle than in San Diego itself, I have prepared a complete One Day in La Jolla guide and itinerary.

This guide spills all the beans on what to do and what to see in one day in La Jolla . You will find helpful tips that concern everything from parking to your attire . Moreover, you can plan your own day adventures in La Jolla by using our detailed map below.

After spending just one day in this fairytale Village by the ocean, you will certainly long for more. When I took my brother to La Jolla for the first time, he wanted to move here. It didn’t happen, though. Yet La Jolla has become one of his regular destinations to spend one day immersed in the beach culture.

Without further ado, here is the ultimate La Jolla guide , including One Day in La Jolla itinerary, that contains the map, tips, and the best places to eat and play. 

One Day in La Jolla: Meet Coastline

The quintessential Village of La Jolla spreads over seven miles of enchanting coastline along the Pacific Ocean within the northern section of San Diego . Surrounded on three sides by towering bluffs and pristine beaches, the place oozes style, an easy-going vibe, and the upscaled ambiance just minutes away from the salty water.

Mediterranean climate with average daily temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit further ensures memorable day trips to La Jolla all year round. All in all, the stunning neighborhood enjoys 266 sunny days a year . With this natural advantage, La Jolla offers a serious competition to flawless beaches in Laguna Beach and favorite sandy stretches in Malibu . 

Some of the best lodging, dining, and shopping of San Diego are located in this impeccable Village. From more than 100 exclusive restaurants to a myriad of educational institutions, museums, and art galleries, La Jolla makes sure your day here is packed to the brim. Furthermore, you can’s fully enjoy a day visit to La Jolla without exploring its well-maintained scenic trails and exemplary wellness centers. 

Famous for its rugged coastline , the area also lures every respectful surfer and scuba diver that spend the whole day conquering high surf and exploring the underwater world of La Jolla.

The sunny Village finds its admirers among marine animals as well. A large colony of local seals and sea lions claims a few beaches in La Jolla every day a week, 52 weeks a year. Once surprising encounters, the soaking up the sun marine creatures are one the main attractions in the area today. Thousands of visitors flock to La Jolla to spend a day admiring these large mammals as they awkwardly climb on the shore. 

Getting to La Jolla

La Jolla nestles within the northern part of San Diego, about 14 miles from the city center. The easiest way to get to this coastal Village is by following Interstate 5. Exit at La Jolla Village Drive if you drive from the south. Visitors from the north wishing to spend one day in La Jolla should exit at La Jolla Parkway.

Arriving by Airplane

San Diego International Airport is located approximately 15 miles from La Jolla. Usually, it doesn’t take more than 20 minutes to get to the Village from the airport, giving that there’s no traffic. This close proximity along with the abundance of things to do in La Jolla inspire many travelers to stay here and explore San Diego and its surroundings during a few day trips.

Arriving by Car

The majority of the day visitors venture to La Jolla from the nearby areas. As San Diego almost borders Mexico, the daytrippers come mostly from the north. For those who drive from Los Angeles , head south on I-5 to La Jolla Village Drive. Take exit 28 and follow Torrey Pines Road to Fay Avenue. While getting to La Jolla by car is a one of the most convenient ways, parking in the Village is challenging. 

How to Spend One Day in La Jolla: Map

What to Do in La Jolla in One Day 

Although throughout this article we cherish the idea of spending just one day in La Jolla, the place certainly deserves more time. The locals should plan for a few day trips to this area. The foreigners and visitors from different states might skip some attractions in downtown San Diego for a chance to engage in more day activities in La Jolla. With that said, here are the best things to do in one day in La Jolla. 

1. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Occupying 2,000 acres of land, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve sits off North Torrey Pines Road. Despite such a close location to the popular neighborhood of San Diego, the area remains one of the most unspoiled places on the Southern California coast.

Miles of pristine beaches rim the reserve, providing safe haven for migrating seabirds and other wildlife. The locals pride themselves on this unspoiled paradise. To them, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is associated with virgin California, a place that had existed before early settlers arrived. 

Accessible all year round, the area offers an array of moderate hikes with panoramic views. The Torrey Pines Beach Loop is one of the most popular routes here. Running for 2.3 miles, it enhances your day with numerous opportunities to see some of the threatened La Jolla’s plants and animals.

Being a protected area, the reserve, however, imposes some limitation on your day adventures in this vast area of La Jolla. No picnics, no dogs, no smoking are allowed here. Moreover, be sure to pack your drones away when spending a day in this part of La Jolla. 

Address : 12600 N Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, California 92037

2. Torrey Pines Gliderport

It’s time to check out all thrilling adventures you can pack in one day in La Jolla. Perched on the cliffs above Black’s Beach, the Torrey Pines Gliderport ensures an adrenaline rush and a bird’s-eye view of San Diego.

From hand gliding to paragliding and tandem paragliding, this premier destination might easily become the highlight of your day in La Jolla. The Torrey Pines Gliderport invites both skilled gliders as well as beginners, offering some lesson and instructions for the newbies. 

Paragliding, however, is one of the most expensive activities to do in La Jolla. For those who prefer to stay on budget or feel more conformable on the ground, the Torrey Pines Gliderport offers the astounding vistas and outdoor dining at Cliffhanger Cafe .   

Address : 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr., La Jolla, California 92037

3. La Jolla Cove

The stellar views and abundance of beach activities fill your day at La Jolla Cove . This small, yet eye-pleasing beach crowns the coastal area of the Village. A primary destination for snorkeling, swimming, and scuba diving, it appeals to adults and children alike.

Apart from its scenic cliff-protectors that shelter the beach, La Jolla Cove is known as a part of the marine reserve. Its churning waters brim with all kinds of ocean inhabitants that entice you to spend the whole day exploring the rich underwater world of La Jolla. 

Not all marine animals, however, test your scuba diving skills. An elevated walkway above the beach allows you to see the sea lions sunbathing on the cliffs and the sandy beach. You can also descend concrete stairs leading to the cove and enjoy a leisurely walk on the golden sand.

TIP: Remember, though, the naughty waves can’t help but “embrace” the locals as well as the day-visitors of La Jolla from time to time. Thus, you might want to keep closer to the cliff when the surf is high.

Address : 1100 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, California 92037

4. Sunny Jim Sea Cave

Sheltered by the towering cliffs and guarded by the powerful Pacific Ocean, the Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave is one of the legendary hidden gems of San Diego . Indeed, the place does’t like excessive attention, unveiling its presence to the most resourceful day visitors of La Jolla.

The secluded cave has allured the locals and travelers for over a century. Accessible only by boat or through a tunnel running from The Cave Store , it first attracted attention in 1902. Gustav Schultz, a German artist and entrepreneur, hired two Chinese laborers to dig a tunnel that would connect his house (now the store) with the cave. They also say, the small cavern was used for bootlegging during Prohibition. 

No illegal trading happens in in the cave when the sun goes down nowadays. Instead, the secluded area entertains the locals as well as the rare visitors who are fortunate enough to learn about the place prior to their day trip to La Jolla.

Spend One Day in La Jolla: Tunnel to Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave

The connecting tunnel has become an enticing landmark on its own. Still accessible from the former house of Gustav Schultz, it descends via a narrow staircase to the enchanting cave. The original 145 steps remain intact, allowing for a convenient 5-minute journey to the seaside. 

Such a secret location mostly reserves the Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave to the use of the locals. The visitors, especially those who spend just one day in La Jolla, often have no clue about its existence. New regulations at the store further prevent from the spontaneous visits to the cave.

To check out the cave at any time, you should plan to visit La Jolla sometime during the day on Tuesday or Thursday. During these so-called walk-in days, the tunnel is open to the public from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm. Self-guided tours costs $10 for adults, $6 for children (3-17).

Once in the cave, you can spend as much time as you need. Usually, the visitors linger inside for 15-20 minutes. Occasionally, photographers get down the tunnel and spend nearly half a day by La Jolla’s seaside, photographing away the churning waters and flying seagulls.

Reservations are required to explore the La Jolla’s most intriguing cave and tunnel during any other day of the week.  

Update: As of 2022, no reservations are needed. Furthermore, the tunnel is open for visits daily, from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm.

Address: 1325 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, California 92037

5. Shell Beach 

La Jolla’s coastline is packed with the small, picturesque beaches, such as Shell Beach . Accessible via a concrete staircase, the sandy stretch sits right at the bottom of the cliff that houses Ellen Browning Scrips Park .

The name of the beach is rather literal. Tiny shells accumulate on the golden sand, giving plenty of natural “toys” to play with for the kids. Moreover, the young “marine biologists” keep themselves busy exploring tiny creatures that abound in tide pools on the beach.

The sandstone bluffs shelter the area on both sides. Yet it doesn’t protect Shell Beach from massive waves that splash on the sand, submerging almost half of the beach at high tide. While you can still enjoy the leisurely walks by the water any time of the year, the locals prefer to get down to the beach only at low tide.

Address: 1000 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, California 92037

6. La Jolla Coast Walk Trail 

Are you fond of long walks by the ocean? La Jolla offers an activity that can occupy the whole day. Spanning the entire shoreline, the Coast Walk Trail unveils all the pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and abundant marine life of the upscale Village. The trail temporarily stretches along the sandy beaches before it climbs onto the bluff near La Jolla Cove Beach , never descending back to the water afterward.

The majority of the day visitors as well as the locals succumb to the indisputable natural beauty of the trail, spending from a couple of hours to half a day by the ocean. More sea lions, seals, and other marine creatures greet the hikers along the way. Normally, only the most persistent visitors conquer the entire La Jolla Coast Walk Trail. 

Address : La Jolla, California

7. Ellen Browning Scripps Park 

Arguably, one of the most photographed parks in the area, Ellen Browning Scripps Park invites you to relax on its green grass after an eventful day in La Jolla. Set on the cliff above the major beaches, the place gathers people from all walks of life.

Families with small children frequent the park, letting their youngsters crawl around and climb the trees. On weekends, the area is brimmed with local merchants selling everything from accessories to books and crystals. The park yet keeps its biggest entertainment for the Fourth of July when colorful fireworks festoon the sky above the ocean. 

8. Children’s Pool Beach

We made a few day trips to La Jolla over the past few years. While our places of interest changed depending on the time of the year, Children’s Pool always toped our itineraries.

Sitting just south of Ellen Browning Scripps Park , the area has nothing to do with the kids. Instead of the active, young beachgoers, the place accommodates a large colony of awkward seals. Packing the short stretch of sandy land like sardines in a tin can, the mammals soak up the warm sun all year round. 

Originally, the Children’s Pool was intended to provide a secluded location for the local kids to splash in the ocean water. A concrete breakwater wall was erected in 1931 to protect the kids from the incoming waves.

Yet the young beachgoers didn’t enjoy the place for a long time. Tempted by the calm waters, the seals moved in, permanently claiming the territory. To make their point, the mammals rarely if ever vacant the beach.

You can admire the marine animals all day long from the towering bluffs in La Jolla. For a close-up look, walk out along the seawall. Beware of the high waves, though. Splashing over the concrete barrier, they unsuccessfully aim at filling up the beach. Swimming during seal pupping season, however, is no longer allowed at the Children’s Pool .   

Address : 834 Coast Blvd S, La Jolla, California 92037

9. Windansea Beach

You can spend a day in La Jolla testing its cold ocean waters on Windansea Beach . Located a short walk from the Children’s Pool area, the place is famous first of all for its surf shack . The old structure sits right on the beach, creating a dreamy backdrop for sunset photography. 

Windansee is a short word for “ Wind-and-Sea ”. The beach owes its name to a hotel with the same name. Sadly, the hotel burned down in the 1940s. Nothing reminds of its existence but the catchy name. 

The secluded beach survived, though, becoming a perfect spot to spend a warm day in La Jolla. Known for its high waves, the place is especially popular with the surfers. Swimming, however, can be challenging here. This drawback forces the majority of the beachgoers to stick only to strolling and sunbathing on the beach. 

Address : Neptune Place and Nautilus Street, La Jolla, California 92037

10. San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park 

La Jolla is a paradise for scuba divers. Brimmed with the marine animals and different habitats, the area suits experienced and beginner divers alike. For many visitors of La Jolla, the underwater world fills the whole day without leaving time for any other activities.

If you are one of these ocean devotees, be sure to explore the deep waters of the San Diego-La Jolla Underwater Park . Spanning 6,000 acres of ocean floor and adjacent beaches, the place enhances your day visit with an array of marine species and incredible underwater terrain.

The area comprises the Ecological Reserve and the Marine Life Refuge and includes 4 distinct habitats: kelp bad, reefs, sand floats, and submarine canyon. The park was created in 1970. Two artificial reefs were added to its territory to attract the marine animals. While the area might be out of reach for some of the day visitors of La Jolla, the divers always come back for more.

Address : 8302 Camino Del Oro, La Jolla, California 92037

11. Torrey Pines Golf Course

Golf lovers usually devote an entire day to tossing balls into loops at Torrey Pines Golf Course . Founded in 1957, the place boasts two professional 18-hole full courses.

Although it’s enticing, perfecting your swing on the bluff above the Pacific Ocean comes with a hefty price. The La Jolla’s visitors usually shell out more than $200 for a day at this superb golf club. Playing here on weekends and holidays comes with a higher price.  

Address : 11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, California 92037

12. Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier

Relatively fewer visitors skip the main beaches to spend a day near the Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier , located just south of La Jolla Shores . A popular oceanography research site, it was built in 1916. The Pier never intended to impress neither the visitors nor the locals of La Jolla. Instead, it focused solely on study, research, and a variety of experiments.

Yet one of the largest active research piers in the world didn’t escape the distorting force of time. Luckily in 1988, it went though a major reconstruction that enabled it to carry on its scientific work.

On top of the underwater research, the pier serves as a boat launch today. Small vessels go off both side of the pier to catch food for inhabitants of Birch Aquarium at Scripps and collect data near the shore. 

Despite its enticing finds, the Scripps Pier welcomes only scientists and oceanographers. The public is not allowed to visit, moreover spend a day on the pier. Yet the beach on the both sides of the structure is free and open to all beachgoers.

Bursting into colors in the evening, the place is especially popular with the photographers that use the long concrete structure as a main object for their sunset photography. 

Address : 8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, Ca 92037

13. La Jolla Village

Quintessential La Jolla Village provides a break from all beach-related activities. From shopping to dining and enjoying its epic wellness centers, the area keeps reminding why La Jolla is considered one of the most luxurious neighborhoods of San Diego. 

Continuing with the prevailing trend, walkable La Jolla Village enables its day visitors to explore most of the sites, waterfront restaurants, and trendy boutiques on foot. The place also boasts a few movie theaters that allow for a short escape from the dreamy scenery to cinematic world.

The day visitors with children, however, might need to look for more kid-friendly places. Loaded with sweet goodies for all tastes and buds, Balboa Candy comes especially in handy. While you might long for exclusive dishes and ocean terraces, your young travelers will surely declare this store the highlight of their day in La Jolla.

The top-notch restaurants won’t make you wait for long, either. Located just a minute away, eye-caching La Plaza La Jolla invites you to have a feast on its rooftop patio. Popular restaurant George’s at the Cove is another great option to savor flavorful dishes with a jaw-dropping view. 

14. La Jolla Murals

Spend the rest of the day discovering eccentric La Jolla’s murals. Often, this activity takes the whole day, so plan your visit accordingly.

The idea of bringing art to masses dates back to 2010. A number of local artists were commissioned to bring their works to the streets. Shortly after that, the first murals adorned private properties throughout La Jolla. New masterpieces joined the collection a few years later. The goal of this unconventional mission was to make artwork accessible to larger audiences at all times.

While you can come across plenty of the murals on your own while spending a day in La Jolla Village, here are a few places to start with. 

Murals to Enjoy on a Day Visit to La Jolla

• Playing La Jolla (for all it’s worth), 2015, by Terry Allen. Address : 7611 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, California
• Favorite Color , 2010, by Roy McMakin. Address : 7596 Eads Avenue, La Jolla, California
• Gamboa Seasons in La Jolla , 2020, by Beatriz Milhazes. Address : 111 Prospect Street (back of building), La Jolla, California
• Eclipse (Playtime), 2013, (detail) 2020, by Isaac Julien. Address : 7569 Girard Avenue, La Jolla, California
• In Chains , 2020, by Marcos Ramirez.  Address : 7744 Fay Avenue, La Jolla, California

15. La Jolla Tours

Some day activities in La Jolla require assistance. Although you can comfortably explore the beaches by yourself, the underwater world might be more receptive of an expert diving with you.

Hiring a local guide or booking a city tours also helps uncover the best sites and hidden gems of La Jolla. Whether you need assistance for a few hours or the whole day, the abundance of unforgettable experiences is guaranteed. For those who find the guided tours useful, here are a few options to choose from. 

One Day in La Jolla Itinerary

With plenty of things to do and places to visit, La Jolla fills your day completely. Start early, walk a lot, and see as much as you possibly can. The place ought to be visited, explored, and discovered again and again. Feel free to use the activities outlined above to plan your own One Day in La Jolla itinerary.

To bring this coastal Village closer to you and show what you can possibly do in La Jolla in one day, we have included this sample itinerary. Use it as it is or change it to suit your preferences. So here is how your day in La Jolla can look like. 

One Day in La Jolla: Morning Itinerary

• 8 am. Start your day with a healthy smoothie or juice along with some baked goods from Beaming Organic Superfood Cafe . You can enjoy your breakfast on the site while watching the city slowly resuming its day activities. Better yet, order your breakfast to go and venture to the oceanside. 
• 9 am: Spend the first half of the day on the beach sunbathing, swimming, surfing, or simply enjoying the company of the seals and sea lions. For that reason, head to Children’s Pool . While going down to the water is out of question here, you can spend an hour or so admiring the big mammals and making friends with the local seagulls.
• For more seals and sea lions, walk along the bluff to La Jolla Cove . It’s a perfect place to finally get down to the beach, spread your towel on the sand, or swim in the cool ocean. Filled up with the tiny creatures transported here by the strong waves, the abundant tide pools allow you and your kids spend half a day examining La Jolla marine life up close. 
• The coastal area, brimmed with small sea caves and rocks of irregular shapes, also allures photographers who use soft morning light to their advantage. For sunrise at the beach, you might want to get here a couple of hours earlier. 

One Day in La Jolla: Afternoon Itinerary

• 12 pm. Have a picnic with the view at Ellen Browning Scripps Park . Located just above La Jolla Cove, it offers plenty of the green spaces to enjoy the second meal of the day. Spread your blanket and take in the gorgeous views or check out the tent-shops of the local vendors.  
• As an alternative, head to Don Carlos Taco Shop and load up on hearty burritos. The place offers a variety of dishes, ranging from classic bean burritos to build-your-own-meal options. Vegan customers can’t stop raving about their soyrizo burritos.
• 1 pm. Reserve the rest of the day to exploring La Jolla Village . Start with the secluded Sunny Jim’s Sea Cave and slowly take your party onto the streets of the Village. Shop at the posh boutiques or collect some gifts from the small shops decorated in ocean themes. The visitors who don’t mind to walk a lot might want to devote the rest of the day to finding the famous murals scattered throughout La Jolla. 

Alternative Afternoon in La Jolla Itinerary 

• The nature enthusiasts can spend the rest of the day further enjoying the enormous treasures that coastal La Jolla has to offer. Go to the Torrey Pines and see how long you can walk before returning back to the Village for dinner. 
• Take a guided tours and relish in history and architectural details of La Jolla or spend the rest of the day in the underwater world .  

One Day in La Jolla: Evening Itinerary

• Dinner. Check out the stunning views from the Ocean Terraces at George’s at the Cove while enjoying its seafood delicacies. The place also delights La Jolla’s vegan and vegetarian day visitors, offering an array of plant-based dishes, ranging from fresh salads, roasted vegetables, and meatless burgers.
• Sunset. Finish the day in La Jolla with sunset magic near the remote Scripps Pier . 

Helpful Tips for Spending One Day in La Jolla

Ditch the car.

I love spending a day in La Jolla. What I don’t like about it is looking for parking. Parking lots as well as streets fill up quickly, especially on weekends. We found it’s best to use paid day parking and explore La Jolla on foot. Use User if you must visit the farthest corners of the area after you “abandon” your car for the day. It won’t break the bank but saves you plenty of time and energy.

Find Parking

If you still prefer to drive around La Jolla, look for free spots on Coast Boulevard or near Prospect Street . Drive around until a spot opens up. 

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You will spend a good part of the day visiting some of the popular and lesser-known places in La Jolla on foot. A comfortable pair of shoes is non-negotiable here.

Bring Towel and Clothes to Change

The untamed waves don’t spare anybody, including those who don’t plan to swim or surf. Thus, bring extra clothes and a small towel unless you plan to spend the whole day shopping, dining, and doing other “safe” activities in the Village of La Jolla.

Apply Sunscreen

La Jolla nestles in the southern corner of California where sun shines brightly most of the year. Take care of your skin and be sure to use sunscreen all day long when in La Jolla. 

This concludes our guide to the best things to do and the top places to see in one day in La Jolla. For more information about the San Diego area, please check out the following guides:

• 18 Irresistible Day Trips from San Diego
• Weekend Guide to San Diego: 1 to 2 Days Itinerary, Tips, and Maps
• First Time in San Diego: What to Know and Do, Tips, and Map
• How to Visit Balboa Park: Directions, Tours, and Free Attractions
• Top 17 Things to Do in Balboa Park: Bucket List and Photography

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How to Visit San Diego Zoo and Safari Park in One Day

You want to See San Diego Zoo and Safari Park on the same day? Here’s a 10-point how-to plan, itinerary & maps to help you save time, effort (and your feet!). And also 5 reasons not to do it.

You can see both San Diego Zoo & Safari Park if you’re physically fit, have a plan, and go during extended summer hours. However, most regular attendees say that it’s difficult because both are full-day attractions. They’re 30+ miles apart. It’s a lot to walk. And Escondido weather can be hot.

If you make purchases through the links in this post, I may be compensated. Read my Advertising Disclosure for more info. Thanks! ~ Nancy

* Save with a secret promo code on each San Diego Zoo or Safari Park 1-Day Pass. Go any day. Go directly to the gate. Click  HERE  to get your code, instructions & discounted tickets by email. By clicking the link above you agree to receive an automated email message. Valid only at aRes Travel , San Diego’s local authorized ticket seller. Read my full privacy policy .

First, let’s go through the reasons why visiting both branches of the San Diego Zoo on the same day is a challenge. Then I’m going to share 10 tips that will make it easier. And I’ve included a detailed itinerary with maps. These will all help you see most of both attractions in 1 day and have a great time doing it.

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t See San Diego Zoo and Safari Park on the Same Day

• Too many animals and exhibits. Both have so many that it is easy to spend a full day at each attraction. San Diego Zoo Global recommends allotting a minimum of 3 to 4 hours for each . But If you’re fascinated by animals like me, a half-day is not nearly enough.

• Too far apart . These two attractions are more than 30 miles away from each other. In ideal traffic conditions, it will take 35 to 45 minutes by car to travel between them. The Zoo is near downtown San Diego within Balboa Park. The Safari Park (formerly known as the Wild Animal Park) is in Escondido. 
• It’s physically demanding . There’s a lot of walking at both parks. The Zoo has some steep hills to climb. And the Safari Park is spread out. For instance, to get to the African Tram you have to walk almost half a mile. Granted, most of the route is downhill, but it’s still a significant distance for many people. 
• High Escondido temperatures can reach 90 to 100°F in the summer. Kids may get hot and cranky. Some adults will too.
• You’ll be rushed. You may want to relax on your vacation, not run around like a crazed meerkat.

Of course, if I’ve persuaded you that doing both animal parks in one day is too much, I’ve written a post on where to stay near Safari Park .

10 Tips for Visiting San Diego Zoo & Safari Park In One Day (Without Regrets)

If you want to see both animal attractions in a day you’ll need both strategy and an itinerary. You’ll find both below:

• Don’t try this with kids under 5 years old . They probably will not have the stamina for a long day like this. Besides, once they see the new Wildlife Explorers Basecamp kids zoo they will not want to leave. You may be there for hours.
• Apple iOS download here.
• Android download here.
• Check the Safari Park’s hours on their website HERE before scheduling your adventure. Also find the time Cheetah Run at Safari Park is scheduled. You will need to arrive at Safari Park at least 30 minutes before the cat scampers.
• Visit the Zoo first. It will help you if you check out my page on which are the top animal exhibits and attractions at the zoo . Then travel to Safari Park. That’s because Cheetah Run at Safari Park usually only takes place once a day in the afternoon (except during Sundown Safari when it’s run again at 7 PM). Be there. Missing Cheetah Run at Safari Park is like visiting San Diego and not eating a fish taco.

• Lyft (https://www.lyft.com/rider/fare-estimate)
• Uber (https://www.uber.com/us/en/price-estimate/ )
• Wear comfortable, broken-in walking shoes! This tour is NOT the time to make a fashion statement. Leave the high heels in your luggage or your feet will pummel you with pain.
• They do not allow glass, alcohol, or straws to be brought in. Large food storage containers like coolers are also forbidden. 
• How to Safely Buy the Best San Diego Zoo Discount Tickets
• 30 Best San Diego Safari Park Discount Ticket Deals Rated
• Use Mechanical Transportation Options. With planning, you can save your feet and conserve your energy at the San Diego Zoo. Ride the buses and other mechanical transport to avoid trudging up the steep hills whenever you can.

• Guided Bus Tours – The double-decked Guided Tours circle through most parts of the zoo. They give you views that you cannot see on foot, particularly those at the Polar Bear exhibit. Catch them near the entrance. Sit on the top deck of the bus. And on the driver’s right hand side if you can. You’ll be able to see more animals because most of them are on that side.
• Kangaroo Express Shuttle buses have 4 stops. They’ll help you get from point A to B quickly. You’ll see one every 15 minutes. They start their routes at 10:30am. Unlimited Kangaroo Bus rides are included with your admission.
• Elevator – The bottom is located on Park Way close to Panda Trek. The top is at the Treetops Cafe and Alberts Restaurant.
• Lost? Ask the red-shirted volunteers. Ask them your questions at either park. San Diego Zoo Global has a large number of well-trained and informed docents. They love to share their knowledge of the parks, the animals, and the plants within them. They also know all the short-cuts.

For more information, check out my summary pages on What to See and Do at Safari Park and 15 Must-See San Diego Zoo Exhibits and Attractions .

Same-Day San Diego Zoo and Safari Park Itinerary for 2024

Here’s a route plan that will allow you to quickly see the most popular animals at the Zoo and Safari Park. It maximizes mechanical transport options. This itinerary also allows you to go downhill on a majority of the Zoo’s hilly paths.

The maps on the left side of the illustrations are screenshots of the San Diego Zoo app. Here’s a map key to help you get the most out of them. Pink text on a map indicates my notes and comments.

San Diego Zoo – Here’s the Most Efficient Way to See It

7:30 AM – Eat breakfast outside of the San Diego Zoo. Indulge a bit, but don’t overdo it. You will be moving all day and will burn those calories off. But you don’t want to eat so much that you get sleepy. 

8:30 AM Arrive at the Zoo. Getting there a bit early will allow you to find a parking spot close to the entrance. It also gives you time to buy tickets if you haven’t already.

San Diego Zoo Bus Ticket Tips

The Guided Tour Bus and Kangaroo Buses are included with your admission. 

At 8:30 AM you’ll be able to enter the gates and wait on Front Street for the opening. Pick up a map from the kiosk or one of the red-shirt volunteers. Take a glance at it so that you can easily recognize the red map markers.

9:00 AM The zoo opens with squawking. Get your camera ready to capture the flock of colorful macaws flying out of an elevated box to their roost. Head immediately across the street to the Guided Bus Tour . The entry is on the left side of Front Street just after Treetops Way (see map marker #5). The tour takes 35 minutes and takes you past almost 70% of the Zoo. 

Guided Bus Tour Exit to Reptile House

9:35 AM The end of the Guided Bus Tour is at the Unloading Station . Exit and turn right on the Front Street path towards the Lost Forest and Zoo Exit. 

Reptile House & Galapagos Tortoises

Are you a reptile fan? Continue past Map Marker #2, past the Wedgeworth Bowl turnoff. Turn right to explore the Reptile house. Go through the Reptile house and you’ll find a cul-de-sac where Galapagos tortoises and alligators live.

After you’ve seen them, or if you want to skip the reptiles and the children’s zoo , turn onto the Monkey Trail (close to the Zoo map marker #4). Head for the squawking noises. If you see flamingos you know that you’re on the right path.

Komodo Dragons and Hummingbirds

Both of these exhibits after the reptiles are worth seeing. The dragons are enormous and even when sleeping they’re menacing and make great photographic subjects.

The hummingbirds are typically moving too fast to get a good picture. Just marvel at their jewel-like colors and how fast they zoom by you. There are numerous other birds in this enclosure that are much easier to capture with your camera. And some of the wading birds look spectacular reflected in the lily pond.

Don’t Miss Wildlife Explorers Basecamp – Even if You’re Not a Kid

San Diego Zoo’s children’s zoo is worth seeing even if you left grade school decades ago. An adult can go through this 3.2-acre kid-friendly section in an hour. But if you’ve got kids under 5 years old with you it’s going to take MUCH longer.

Go through it in a roughly counter-clockwise direction. Go to the Spineless Wonders building, then Cool Critters, and finally to Wild Woods with the rope bridge, squirrel monkeys, and water splash pads.

I’ve written an entire page about Basecamp that lists the highlights of each section. I’d make sure to see the prairie dog and burrowing owl exhibit, fennec foxes, squirrel monkeys, and the spectacular “Migration Flyover Experience” at the entry to the Spineless Wonders building.

After you’ve explored Basecamp head back to the flamingos and the rest of your journey.

Flamingos to Gorillas

From the flamingos, it’s a 15-minute walk on the Monkey Trail past some unusual primates (my favorites are the beautiful Colobus monkeys ) to the Western Lowland Gorilla habitat .  

Gorillas to Okapi & Hippos

Take the Hippo Trail down the steep stairs. At the bottom of the stairs is the lush Scripps Aviary. Take a look inside at all the jeweled birds and jungle plants. Go out the same way that you came into the aviary.

After you see the birds turn left. You’ll see the “let’s make love, not war” Bonobos . Take a quick jog to the left to view the back side of the Malayan Tiger habitat. The tiger may be hidden or hard to see. Don’t worry too much. You’re going to Safari Park in the afternoon and you WILL see tigers there! 

Just before you get to the hippos you’ll pass the graceful okapi. I love their striped leggings. Very stylish.

Hippos to Red Pandas & Snow Leopards

Continue down Hippo Trail past the okapis , hippos , otters and more monkeys.

At Park Way turn right . Walk up to the Panda Trek sign and turn left . Unfortunately the Great Pandas have gone back to China. But don’t despair, the exquisitely cute red pandas are still melting hearts here in San Diego. Keep going on that trail to the snow leopards and their cousins the Amur leopards . 

Snow Leopards to Polar Bears…Or Urban Jungle

At this point you have a choice. It depends upon whether you’re feeling strong and full of energy or if you want to take it easy.

Feeling energetic? Take the blue dot route. When you exit the Asian Cats habitat go straight. Walk up the hill from the cats to Kangaroo Bus Stop #3 . This segment is one of the steepest at the Zoo. It starts with some unique hawks & eagles. Follow it up through the Northern Frontier section to the Polar Bear exhibit, Skyfari and the Cougars on the left.

• Board the Kangaroo Bus at Stop #3 and take it to Stop #1 in the Urban Jungle. We’ll save the Elephant Odyssey for later. 

Conserving your energy? Use the yellow dot route. Walk to the Kangaroo Bus. Take the bus from Stop # 2 to Stop #1 at the Urban Jungle. You’ll avoid the lung-sucking uphill climb between Stop #2 and the Skyfari station.

• The downside of taking the bus is that it does not stop at the Polar Bear exhibit . So if you want to see those furry clowns close-up you’ll have to get off at Stop #3 and backtrack down the hill a bit. Fortunately, the steepest part of the hill is between stop #2 and the bears. So you are saving some energy. 

The above Zoo map app screenshot show the Kangaroo Bus route between stops #2, #3 and stop #1 in Urban Jungle.

Chubby Unicorns, Koalas and Bears!

Truth! San Diego Zoo has unicorns in their Urban Jungle area. Their one horned or Indian rhinos call this home. And their scientific name is Rhinoceros unicornis .

Go clockwise around the Urban Jungle loop. You’ll spot giraffes , flamingos and animal ambassadors like cheetahs and wolves.

Then turn left into the Australian Outback and the outrageously adorable koalas . Say g’day to the guys and girls and the wallabies. Just after the koalas turn right at the driveway and walk back towards Urban Jungle.

If you want to see more birds and the Tasmanian devils cross Bieler Plaza to see them. Then backtrack and head sharply downhill on Center Street to see various bear species, otters and more.

Take the Bridge to Elephant Odyssey

At Park Way, turn left to the bridge . Take the elevator on the left to the top. Then turn right and go across Bashor Bridge.

Once you’re across the bridge turn right and walk through Elephant Odyssey . You’ll pass a North American fossil exhibit, sloths, lions, and jaguars before the Elephant Care Center. The Center’s like a medical clinic for the Zoo’s geriatric elephants. You may even get to see a keeper perform a pachyderm pedicure with a wood-shop rasp.

After the condors turn right . Go past the meerkats and take another slight right to see the Kopji Rocks exhibit. Here you’ll see the big-eared serval cats and the too darn cuteness of the tiptoe-strutting Klipspringer antelopes. As you continue down a slight incline you’ll get to the Africa Rocks area .

Veer right at the Hamadryas baboons and continue downhill. You’ll pass the “look at my awesomeness” ibex , yet another great aviary, leopards, and fossa .

In the morning you’ll see lemurs soaking up the sunshine looking like mini furry Buddhas. The lemurs also tease the leopards next door because they know that they can get away with it. That’s probably bad dharma, but they don’t care. They’ve got all the food that they want, free top-notch healthcare, and they live in sunny San Diego. All they lack is a good margarita.

The African Penguin habitat is at the bottom of the hill. It’s one of the highlights of the Zoo.

(Due to the threat of avian flu, the penguins have been temporarily moved to a more secure, covered location in Bear Canyon.)

There are rocks and nests above water. But the best part of this exhibit is the underwater aquarium views. Watching those tuxedo torpedoes ‘flying’ underwater through one-story high windows is mesmerizing. Added bonus; it’s a great place to sit down and cool off in the summertime!

After you tear your eyes away from the penguins, walk downhill to the bridge.

Lunch at Treetops Cafè or Albert’s?

1:00 PM Walk to the bridge elevator and ride it to the top again. This time turn left towards the restaurants and eating areas. Eating at Treetops Cafè will be quicker, but Albert’s has better food . Both have great views while dining. Allow yourself about 30 minutes to eat at Treetops, an hour at Albert’s.

You don’t have to purchase food to eat at the Treetops Cafè dining decks. If you’ve packed a lunch stop here to eat. Sit down at one of the tables, chow down and enjoy the view!

Also, be aware that there are many other eating options once you get outside the Zoo. Here’s an article that I wrote about more restaurants within Balboa Park .

After eating (or not), take Treetops Way to the left. Follow the signs to the Parker Aviary and admire the toucans and other birds in the lush foliage.

After that, you’re on the Orangutan Trail . You’ll see the orange-furred “men of the forest” and Siamang apes.

After you see the apes, rejoin Treetops Way and take it to Front Street . Turn left and you’ll soon see the Exit sign . 

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM Drive or take a ride-share to San Diego Safari Park. Give yourself at least 45 minutes to make the trip.

Do Safari Park Like a Cheetah

(Elephant viewing may be limited due to the construction of the new, larger ‘Elephant Valley’ exhibit.)

2:45 PM Enter the park. Pick up a map! If you want to eat at The Watering Hole , find out if it is open that day and when it closes. Call general information at 760-747-8702.

Check the map’s ENTERTAINMENT section. If the Cheetah Run starts at 3:30 head there immediately. It takes 15 to 20 minutes to walk there.

Safari Park Entrance to Cheetah Run

Take Safari Walk, turn right at map marker #4 onto Nairobi Walk. At map marker #6 stay left to keep on Nairobi Walk. At Africa Walk (and the lemurs) turn left then go down the elevator. Shiley’s Cheetah Run is near map marker #11 and close to the Africa Tram entrance. If you get lost, ask the red shirted volunteers. 

If you have about an hour to get down to Cheetah Run, at map marker #6 detour into the Hidden Jungle aviary. Then backtrack just slightly to go into the Rainforest Aviary. The birds are spectacularly colorful.

Cheetah Run is a MUST-SEE Safari Park attraction (if it’s being held). The event lasts 20-30 minutes. The actual running takes place in less than 10 seconds.

NOTE : this attraction was canceled during COVID restrictions and has not reopened yet. For now, you can only see these spotted speedsters run during the Sun Up Cheetah Safari which takes place before the park opens.

Witnessing a cheetah accelerate faster than a Ferrari and hit 60 mph in three strides is not to be missed. You’re close enough to hear its feet hitting the ground, grabbing for traction. Sometimes you can hear it breathing in HUGE gulps of air as it flies by.

And watching the cat skidding to a stop with their tail whipping around for balance and turf clods flying everywhere is almost as impressive. 

After the Cheetah Run is done, head to Lion Camp along the African Loop . There are plenty of spots for great photos of the king (& queens) of beasts. 

Cheetah Run to Lion Camp and Africa Tram

Continue on Africa Loop until you reach the Africa Tram for a guided 30 minute ride through the African Plains exhibit. It can take more than 30 minutes wait to get on board. But it’s not bad. The waiting areas are shaded and the park operators turn on misters if the weather’s hot.

From Africa Tram to Okavango Outpost, Africa Loop and Okapi

Hungry yet? After riding the Africa Tram turn left and continue down the African Loop . You’ll pass the Okavango Outpost restaurant. Grab a quick bite to eat if you’re hungry. Or dig into your backpack for some chow. Sit at the tables outside overlooking the lagoon or head further down the path to the cheetah enclosure and eat there on one of the benches. 

Continue on Africa Loop until the end . Along this route you’ll see flamingos and colobus monkeys with their gorgeous long black and white fur on the lagoon part of the loop. Further on you’ll see many more animals including vultures, giant eland and okapi. When you get to the elevator again go straight and turn left on the Service Road at Map Marker #11.

From Elephant Valley to Gorilla Forest

Go up the Service Road to Map Marker #16. From there you can see Elephant Valley. If the pachyderms are not visible, take a detour across Tembo Stadium to the Elephant Viewing Patio.

Once you’ve filled your eyes (and heart) with memories of these gentle giants backtrack to the Service Road. Turn right and then left to go under the bridge at Map Marker #16 .

When you get to the top of the hill at Oasis Deli go left to Map Marker #6 . Take Nairobi Walk past the Lorikeets again. But this time turn right at the ring-tail lemurs. Go inside if they’re active. Otherwise, continue up to Gorilla Forest .

After you’ve seen the great apes, keep going in the same direction until you come to the lagoon. Turn left on the Lagoon Loop . Cross the covered bridge and head through the plaza towards Map Marker #2 and Safari Walk which heads up to Tiger Trail (click the link for another article I wrote on what makes it so special). 

Tigers, Kangaroos, Platypus, Condors & More!

At the Tull Family Tiger Trail welcome arch the rest of the park is one big loop. You can either go right to see Walkabout Australia and Condor Ridge and then see the tigers last or do it in reverse. It depends on how much time you have before the park closing time and which animals you want to see the most.

Definitely make an effort to see the platypus in Walkabout Australia . They’re the only ones on exhibit outside of Australia. Besides, they’re the most surprising animals at the Safari Park. They’re not going to be what you expect.

Remember that tigers are mostly nocturnal and will be more active at twilight or later. The downside is that they’ll be a bit harder to see. And flash photography is frowned upon or snarled at. So don’t even think about using it.

After seeing the Tiger Trail, Condor Ridge, and Walkabout Australia loop walk back down to the Safari Park entrance and go find your parked car or rideshare vehicle and collapse.

CONGRATULATIONS!

You’ve done something few people even try. You’ve seen both the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park in one day!

Nancy Ulrich

I'm nuts...about animals, polymer clay, mixed media art & husband Bob. Happily planted in San Diego among good friends, family that I would have chosen if given the choice and optimism for a bountiful future for us all.

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The best things to do this weekend in San Diego: April 5-7

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Here are some of the best things to do this weekend in San Diego from Friday, April 5 to Sunday, April 7.

Fern Street Circus: The annual San Diego communities tour by the Fern Street Circus is back starting this Saturday and visiting a different community park on Saturdays and Sundays through May 5. With a theme this year of “home,” the traveling show will start in City Heights and make its way to 10 different locations. It features professional artists and musicians, as well as students from Fern Street Circus’ after-school program. See performances in clowning, puppetry, tight wire, juggling, contortion and other circus arts. Each appearance by the circus comes with an opening act by Mariachi Victoria de San Diego and a health resource fair. See the circus at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays at the following locations: Teralta Park on April 6, Golden Hill Recreation Center on April 7, Memorial Park on April 13, Azalea Park on April 14, Colina del Sol Park on April 20, Gompers Park on April 21, Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park on April 27, North Park Recreation Center on April 28, Cesar Chavez Recreation Center on May 4 and Park de la Cruz on May 5. Health resource fair at 12:30 p.m., Mariachi Victoria de San Diego show at 1:15 p.m. 2 p.m. circus start time on Saturday.Teralta Park, over I-15 freeway, between Orange and Park Avenues. Free. fernstreetcircus.com

626 Night Market: 626 Night Market returns to San Diego this weekend starting today. This three-day event travels all around California and includes over 100 food and merchandise vendors, arts and crafts stations, games, music and live entertainment. The market takes place at the Mission Valley Mall parking lot next to the Broken Yolk Cafe. It costs $3 to get into the event or $6 for all three days, and is free for kids ages 3 years and under. The night market is influenced by the open-air bazaars found in numerous parts of Asia, where the community gathers for entertainment, to socialize and to taste various foods and beverages. 3 to 11 p.m. Friday; 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 1640 Camino Del Rio North, San Diego. 626nightmarket.com

WOW Festival now underway: La Jolla Playhouse’s Without Walls Festival runs today through Sunday on the campus of UC San Diego. Twenty-five shows from the U.S. and abroad, ranging from immersive theater, to dance, acrobatics, music and puppetry, are being presented free of charge to the community. Some shows require reservations and have no slots left, but many are walk-up shows encounters. 4 to 10 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. UCSD, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla. Schedule and directions at wowfestival.org .

“Ride”: The Old Globe presents the U.S. premiere of this musical based on the true story of Annie Londonderry, the first woman to ride a bcycle around the world in the 1890s. Opens tonight and runs through April 28. 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Sundays. Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park, San Diego. $29 and up. (619) 234-5623, theoldglobe.org

Old Globe’s ‘Ride’ musical to tell the story of the first woman to bike around the world in the 1890s

“Ride,” which made its world premiere in London last year, is making its U.S. premiere at the Globe this weekend

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“The Harvest”: OnStage Playhouse opens its 40th season with Samuel D. Hunter’s drama about a group of evangelical missionaries facing questions of faith, family and the future on the eve of a missionary trip to the Middle East. 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 5 p.m. Sundays. Through April 14. 291 Third Ave., Chula Vista. $15-$25. (619) 422-7787, onstageplayhouse.org

Silent Disco: Put on headphones and dance it out with four DJS and drink specials. Rent the headphones for 30 min. for $5. 9 p.m. Friday. Duck Dive, 4650 Mission Blvd., San Diego. Register here: eventbrite.com/e/silent-disco-at-the-duck-dive-tickets-857144812207

Will You Accept This Rose? Live!: Comedian Arden Myrin and celebrities will discuss the latest episodes of “The Bachelor” with special guests from the cast of previous “Bachelor Nation” shows: Aaron Clancy, Logan Seagull and Tyler Norris. 2 p.m. Saturday. Mic Drop Comedy, 8878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., San Diego . $30. micdropcomedy.com/shows/253782

Jacqueline Johnson author event: Local veterinarian Jacqueline Johnson will do a reading from her book, “Elinor McGrath, Pet Doctor,” about the first female veterinarian. Children are invited to bring their stuffed animals to the event, because after the reading, she will be available to do veterinary check-ups on them. Johnson will also sign books and answer questions. 3 to 4 p.m. Saturday. La Jolla/Riford Library, 7555 Draper Ave., La Jolla. Free. sandiego.librarymarket.com/event/elinor-mcgrath-pet-doctor-story-americas-first-female-veterinarian-local-author-dr-jacqueline

Earth Month Celebration: The city of Carlsbad hosts this annual event to celebrate earth and educate the public on food waste. Attendees can bring used clothing to swap, join a kids’ bike rodeo, pick up free compost and mulch or make sustainable produce bags. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Pine Avenue Community Center and Park, 3209 Harding St., Carlsbad. Free. carlsbadca.gov

Mexican brunch starts at Casa Gabriela The Cohn Restaurant Group and Chef Gabriela Lopez have launched a brunch program every weekend at Casa Gabriela in La Mesa. The Mexican-inspired brunch menu has 14 items to choose from, such as the sopes Benedictos, made with birria, refried black beans, poached eggs, rajas con papas, habanero white onions, queso fresco and guajillo hollandaise. The brunch menu also has six cocktails. 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 8384 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa. (619) 337-3445, casagabrielalamesa.com

Tomato growing class: Learn about growing tomatoes at a San Diego Seed Co. workshop on Saturday. Participants will learn from San Diego Seed team members about the entire process of cultivating tomatoes and each person gets a special tomato to take home. Some of the topics include tomato types, growing stages, myths and plant care. The class has a capacity of up to 15 people. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Saturday. 16827 California 67, Ramona. $50. sandiegoseedcompany.com

Golden State Ballet’s “From New York, with Love”: A trilogy of dance works by award-winning, New York-based choreographers Justin Peck, Gabrielle Lamb and Norbert De La Cruz III. 7:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., downtown. $35-$75. goldenstateballet.org

Music, tacos and tequila: Snapdragon Stadium will host the Tequila & Taco Music Festival on Saturday and Sunday. Guests will get to sample six half-ounce shots of tequila, various street tacos and enjoy live performances from Warren G, Shaggy, Ozomatli, Vilma Diaz and more. There will also be vendors selling margaritas, craft beer and clothing. 1 to 9 p.m. Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. 2101 Stadium Way, San Diego. $34.99-$80. tequilaandtacomusicfestival.com

Beer festival: The North Park Festival of Beers will be held in front of the Lafayette Hotel on Saturday. It will bring together 50 beer and spirit companies, five food vendors and three live musical performances by Ash Easton, Anthony Cullins and the band Half Hour Late. Money from the event goes toward the San Diego Music Foundation, which funds the program Taylor Guitars in Schools. Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. 2223 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego. $25-$65. northparkbeerfest.com

San Diego Writers Festival: The San Diego Writers Festival will feature 90 speakers and a slew of author talks, workshops, food, live music and tent crawl prizes. Author discussions cover topics ranging from Writing About Place, Words Birthed From The Borders and Getting Published to The Art of Leaving Everything on the Page, Black Authors Speak Out and Writing From our Immigrant Hearts. There will be talks on creating comic books, mysteries, fantasies and thrillers along with a poetry reading and open mic. The event kicks off with Gill Sotu and the Naruwan Taiko Drummers and concludes with an interview with Patty Lin, author of “End Credits: How I Broke Up with Hollywood.” 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave., San Diego. Admission is free. Register and view the schedule at sandiegowritersfestival.com .

San Diego Native Garden Tours: The California Native Plant Society will give Native Garden Tours at various locations in San Diego County. This year’s theme is “Planting Animals,” highlighting the ties between native plants and the animals that depend on them. The event features the gardens of several “visionaries,” Dennis and Pamela Mudd in Poway and Jim Smith in Del Mar. Together they created Calscape, an online tool for the home gardener. The tour gardens are divided geographically. Your ticket gives you garden access on both days. April 6 features gardens in Rancho Bernardo, Poway, Miramar Ranch North and Scripps Ranch. April 7 features gardens in La Jolla, North Clairemont, University City, Del Mar and Solana Beach. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. General admission tickets are $40 through April 7. Admission is free for children 17 and younger. Visit bit.ly/43TCnip .

Microtonal bassoonist Jonny Reinhard : In his West Coast premiere, this composer-conductor will perform a solo recital. 2 p.m. Saturday. Bonita Museum, 4355 Bonita Road, Bonita. Free to $6. (619) 267-5141 , bonitahistoricalsociety.org

“Magdalene: The Musical”: Genesis Opera Theatre presents this 1983 Sal Ponti musical about the Biblical character of Mary Magdalene. 7 p.m. Saturday; 3 p.m. Sunday. Star Repertory Theatre, 329 E. Valley Parkway, Escondido. $30-$45 . genesisoperatheatre.com

Taylor Chapin solo show: Quint Gallery presents optical and pop-inspired artwork by this Oceanside painter. Opens Saturday and runs through May 11. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays. 7722 Girard Ave., La Jolla. Free. (858) 454-3409, quintgallery.com

National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day: The Armed Forces PB&J Classic will be held aboard the steam ferry Berkeley. The sandwich-eating contest features two-person teams representing six branches of the U.S. military. The event is open to the public with museum admission. A free, PB&J-inspired sampling bar opens at 11 a.m. on the Berkeley. Noon Saturday. Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1494 N. Harbor Drive. Tickets are $12-$24 at sdmaritime.org . Proceeds benefit Paralyzed Veterans of America, Cal-Diego Chapter. Visit armedforcespbjclassic.com .

North Park Festival of Beers: This festival features more than 50 craft breweries, food, live music and craft vendors. Listed participants include Ballast Point, Black Plague, Boochcraft, Karl Strauss, Societe, Sierra Nevada and more. noon to 4 p.m. Lafayette Hotel, El Cajon Blvd., San Diego. Tickets start at $30. northparkbeerfest.com

Polish countertenor Jakub Józef Orlinski: La Jolla Music Society presents a vocal recital of early music by Monteverdi, Strozzi, Cavalli and more, with music by Il Pomo d’Oro chamber orchestra. 3 p.m. Sunday. Baker-Baum Concert Hall, Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. $61-95. theconrad.org

National Beer Day special: Puesto is offering $5 beer flights all day at its three San Diego County locations on Sunday. Flights come in four, 5-ounce pours. At the Mission Valley location, Puesto brews six beers that are Mexican-inspired and range from lagers and ambers to an IPA. eatpuesto.com

Le Salon de Musiques: A six-piece chamber ensemble will perform works by Mozart, Beethoven and Lachner. 4 p.m. Sunday. La Jolla Women’s Club, 7791 Draper Ave., La Jolla $45-$95 . lesalondemusiques.com

Two free lectures: MiraCosta College’s LIFE (Learning is for Everyone) group holds two free lectures April 5 at the Oceanside Campus, in the Board Room Trailer (T200) by the Police Station. At 1 p.m., author Mark Cannon will discuss “Lincoln’s Scout — The Diary of Horatio Cooke, Soldier, Spy, Escape Artist.” At 2:30 p.m., MiraCosta astronomy professor Rica French will present “The Next Eclipse.” French will discuss how to safely watch the total solar eclipse that is expected to transverse the continental U.S. on April 8. Visit miracosta.edu/life .

Myth-inspired poetry reading: As part of the National Endowment for the Arts’ annual Big Read program, Write Out Loud is hosting a series of events this month celebrating the books, “Circe” by Madeline Miller, and “Mythology” by Edith Hamilton. Friday, there will be a myth-inspired poetry reading. The first five guests will receive free books. 5:15 p.m. Friday. San Diego Writer’s INK, 730 Historic Decatur Road #204, San Diego. writeoutloudsd.com/nea-big-read-circe

San Elijo Lagoon Family Day: A Family Fun Day will focus on “Traveling Seeds.” Highlights include hands-on activities, craft-making and animal encounters led by rangers. There will be presentations and Track Trails activity guides. Young attendees can earn a Junior Ranger badge. 11:30 a.m. Sunday at the San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center, 2710 Manchester Ave. Visit naturecollective.org .

Rotary Club holds Mariachi Festival: Mariachi Los Camperos is the featured performer for the Route 78 Rotary Club’s 10th annual Mariachi Festival. Opening acts include Tierra Caliente Academy dancers, Rancho Buena Vista Mariachi and 9-year-old vocalist LuMaya. A VIP “Tacos and Tequila” tasting social and silent auction is from noon to 12:30 p.m. and tickets are $100, including the concert from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Proceeds support education and charitable programs for children, youths and nonprofits in North County and worldwide. Route 78 Rotary, a regional Hispanic Club, is a member of Rotary International and promotes programs including youth leadership, scholarships, music, medical and dental clinics, food distribution and polio eradication. Saturday at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N Escondido Blvd. $25 and $50. For tickets, visit artcenter.org and route78rotary.org .

Spring Fling & Street Fair: The 33rd annual event is expected to attract thousands of attendees and will feature more than 225 artisans and crafters, retailers and nationwide vendors, live entertainment on two stages, carnival rides and a fun zone along with a Rhythm, Brews & Wine Garden. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday along Via Vera Cruz. Admission is free. Visit sanmarcoschamber.com .

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12 Day Trips From San Diego You Must Take

Posted: October 26, 2023 | Last updated: October 26, 2023

The great thing about visiting San Diego is there are plenty of things to see and do within the city limits. What do you do when looking for a little more than a Central San Diego itinerary can provide? When the appetite for adventure kicks in, there are plenty of options for hitting the open road for a day trip from San Diego. 

Day Trips From San Diego You Will Love

One of the unique aspects of  San Diego is that within an hour or two of the city, you can be in the deserts, mountains or on the beach and waterfront. As a resident for over 20 years, I have enjoyed numerous day trips, often turning them into weekend trips. Here are twelve of the best day trips from San Diego to satisfy any visitor. 

Julian  is one of the closest day getaways, a historic former mining mountain town with a Main street downtown full of shops and eateries. It’s one of my regular trips for its wine, beer, and cider options. While any season is a great time, fall brings festivals, and winter can bring snow for visitors in the area who aren’t used to enjoying snow. Make sure to indulge in a piece of apple pie made from locally grown apples. 

2. Idyllwild

This mountain town, at 6,000 feet elevation, is a two-hour drive from San Diego, where numerous outdoor activities exist, such as fishing, rock climbing, and hiking. The real treat is enjoying the hipster downtown at the heart of  Idyllwild . Vintage, thrift, and crystal and gem shops are among the choices for perusing and shopping. Small cafes and restaurants, including Idyllwild Brewery and Middle Ridge Winery, are popular stopping points. 

3. Mount Laguna

Just 20 miles southwest of Julian and easily accessible from Interstate 8 out of San Diego, Mount Laguna boasts more outdoor adventure. Situated on the edge of the Cleveland National Forest with close access to the Pacific Coast Trail, tranquility is a major attraction. There’s also an outstanding Observatory from which to view the night sky. Camping is one of the best ways to turn this into a weekend stay, and the options are plentiful to do so. 

4. Borrego Springs/Anza Borrego State Park

This day trip to the desert East of San Diego should not be missed. The town of  Borrego Springs  is small but features thrift shopping and eateries. As an official Dark Sky community, star gazing is at a premium here and is one of my favorite pastimes. Summer months are usually best avoided due to extreme heat, but catching the Super Bloom in early Spring is a highlight. 

There are options for every style and budget to make it a weekend stay. These include camping, RV parks, glamping retro RV rentals, and motels and hotels. I’ve tent-camped, gone glamping in a retro trailer, and used a motel, and you can’t go wrong with any of those choices. 

5. Temecula

The Temecula region is about an hour north on the inland side and is known for its wine country offerings. Check out Old Town Temecula for a very doable and enjoyable day trip, known for its history, shopping, and eateries. I have created my own wine country tours and have gone along with organized tours such as  Grapeline . Tours can either start from Temecula or to and from San Diego. 

6. Campo/Lake Morena

Although still part of San Diego County, visitors will feel a world apart from the hustle and bustle of city life.  Lake Morena County Park  sits at a 3,000-foot elevation south of the Laguna Mountains. As an outdoor lovers paradise, camping, hiking, kayaking, and fishing are leading attractions. You may also encounter hikers along the Pacific Coast Trail. 

7. Baja California, Mexico

One of the unique aspects of San Diego is its proximity to the Mexican border, where beaches, shopping, and tacos and margaritas await. The food and hospitality in  Baja  are the reasons to consider this trip. One can stay nearby in Tijuana or venture further south to Rosarito, Ensenada, and the Valle de Guadalupe wine region. There are ways to take public transit taxis and hire a private driver or tour guide for those who don’t want to drive. 

Note: This day trip requires more planning and documentation than the other trips. Be sure that all visitors have a valid passport the car has the proper insurance for Mexico, and plan ahead for a potential long wait at the border upon the return. 

8. Dana Point

Dana Point features a host of things to do on any day trip, including beaches, shopping, and dining. In addition, the Dana Point Harbor is a great starting point for whale watching, fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. In addition, a trip to the Ocean Institute will teach visitors all about sea life. 

9. San Juan Capistrano

This historic city, 66 miles north of San Diego, is a must-do for any history lover. One of the main attractions is the San Juan Capistrano Mission, known as the birthplace of Orange County. In addition, is, the Los Rios Street Historic District packed with great restaurants, quaint shops, and art. It’s an easy 90-minute train ride on Amtrak’s scenic Pacific Surfliner, perfect for a car-free day. 

10. San Clemente

It’s one of the shortest day trips just an hour north of San Diego. Known as a surf haven and for its historic pier, this coastal city also features boutique shopping, restaurants, and beach hiking. One of the highlights here is a stop at Pedro’s Tacos, a staple since 1986. A visit to Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, the former home of the city’s founder, features stunning views of the city and coast from above. 

11. Long Beach/the Queen Mary

Nested in between Orange County and Los Angeles, it is the perfect medium of both. Long Beach has 8.5 miles of coastline and is about 110 miles from San Diego. There’s more than just the beach, though, as a visit to the Queen Mary and the  Aquarium of the Pacific  are great for any family member. There are many places to stay to make it a weekend getaway, including aboard the Queen Mary, which operates as a floating hotel. 

12. Anaheim/Disneyland

Disney and theme park lovers can make a day trip to  Disneyland  and Disney’s California Adventure Park a day trip from San Diego. It’s 95 miles by car, or you can take the train to Fullerton and then a shuttle bus to the entrance. It would be better to spread this across two days for the ultimate experience if attempting both parks. Ample resorts, hotels, and motels are available to make it a great weekend–or longer–getaway. 

Adventure awaits no matter which direction you head out on the road from San Diego. The day or weekend trip options are abundant—from mountains to deserts, beaches, water sports, and more. There is enough to experience in each location to make a return trip enjoyable. Choosing where to go might just be the hardest part. 

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UBS CEO says integrating Credit Suisse will become a ‘case study' for future big bank mergers

By jenni reid,cnbc • published april 5, 2024 • updated on april 5, 2024 at 10:49 am.

• Credit Suisse collapsed in March 2023 following years of underperformance, scandals and risk management crises. UBS in June completed its takeover of the 167-year-old bank in a deal controversially brokered by Swiss authorities.

The Swiss National Bank has said the size of the new entity flags potential competition issues that will need to be monitored.

The mammoth integration of failed bank Credit Suisse into its former rival UBS will act as a "case study," UBS CEO Sergio Ermotti said Friday, one that will show that big bank mergers should be allowed.

"It's going to be a case study to be evaluated globally, but also particularly in Europe, where eventually the necessity of creating stronger banks, and stronger and more competitive banks from a global standpoint of view, is in my point of view a necessity," Ermotti told CNBC's Steve Sedgwick at an event at the Ambrosetti Spring Forum in Italy.

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"Of course, we can't just rely on a crisis to create or facilitate the merger of banks," Ermotti said.

"It's good to have strong players that can be part of the solution, like UBS was in the Credit Suisse case. ... But it cannot be just that part. So in that sense, I think that the real issue is, there has to be a political desire to facilitate something like that. So it's not the reality of today," he added.

Credit Suisse collapsed in March 2023 after years of underperformance, scandals and risk management crises. UBS in June completed its takeover of the 167-year-old bank in a deal controversially brokered by Swiss authorities.

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Ermotti said Friday, "The good news is that, in my view, in many countries, there is a recognition that they want to protect their banks or financial institutions as national champions, which is an implied or explicit recognition of their value for their economies."

"But the bad news is that they don't realize that in order to really be meaningful, and go to the next level of their contribution in their economies, they will need to be also more competitive globally. But without a banking union, without a capital markets union, it's going to be very, very difficult for Europe to compete with U.S. large banks."

Unlike in the U.S., European economies continue to rely on the banking sector for business financing; and Europe has a "completely different playing field and a lack of critical mass," Ermotti said.

"So I hope, I'm not so convinced it's going to happen soon, but I hope eventually one day those kinds of mergers between big banks will be allowed and we can contribute to that by showing that it's possible. In the meantime, I think that in many countries, critical mass and synergies can be created by further rounds of local mergers," he said.

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