should i visit san diego

Is San Diego Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider

San Diego, with its sunny weather, beaches, and vibrant city scene, is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore the west coast of the United States. However, with so many attractions and activities to choose from across California, it can be challenging to decide whether San Diego is worth the visit. In this blog, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of visiting San Diego to help you make an informed decision .

From its beautiful parks and museums to its crowded beaches and high cost of living, we’ll examine both the positive and negative aspects of this famous Californian city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a thrilling urban adventure, our guide will help you decide if San Diego is the right destination for you.

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Is San Diego Worth Visiting?

In short, yes, San Diego is definitely worth visiting . With its year-round excellent weather , miles of sandy beaches, and abundance of attractions, San Diego has something for everyone. While San Diego may be on the pricier side compared to other cities, its many amenities and attractions make it well worth the cost.

Who Is San Diego Good for?

San Diego is an excellent destination for a wide range of travelers. Just about everyone can find something to love about San Diego, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers, couples, families, international tourists, and groups alike.

Nature lovers can explore the city’s many parks and gardens, while history buffs can visit museums and historic sites like the USS Midway Museum or the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

Families will love the world-famous San Diego Zoo and the LEGOLAND California Park, while foodies can indulge in the city’s diverse culinary scene.

There are also plenty of outdoor activities, including surfing, kayaking, and hiking. And for those who enjoy excellent bars, live entertainment, or events, there is plenty of exciting nightlife .

Why is San Diego NOT Worth Visiting?

It is difficult to argue that San Diego is not worth visiting, as it offers a plethora of attractions and activities for tourists to enjoy. However, some people may find the city to be too touristy, crowded, and expensive, particularly during peak travel seasons.

Additionally, some visitors may not be interested in beach-oriented activities and may prefer a more urban or rural setting. Traffic can also be a challenge in the city, and parking can be costly and hard to find.

Lastly, the city has experienced issues with homelessness and crime in certain areas , which may be a concern for some visitors. While San Diego may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s still a beautiful and culturally rich city that many travelers enjoy.

Things to Consider When Visiting San Diego for the First Time

Whether or not you will want to visit certain parts of California is very subjective to your interests and travel style. Let’s dive into the specifics of some positive and negative qualities to help you decide if San Diego is worth visiting and adding to your California trip itinerary!

PROs to Visiting San Diego:

1. Beaches: The city has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including La Jolla Cove, Coronado Island Beach , and Mission Beach. For less crowded, more relaxed beaches keep heading further into north county San Diego.

2. Weather: San Diego has perfect weather almost year-round, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. In the summer, temperatures average about 66°F to 77°F and in the winter about 50°F to 66°F.

3. History: The city has a rich history and cultural heritage, with many museums, landmarks, and festivals to explore, such as in Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter.

4. Attractions: The city is home to several world-renowned attractions, such as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld . For younger kids, Sesame Place San Diego is worth looking into.

✔️ San Diego Zoo tickets & info ✔️ SeaWorld tickets & info ✔️ Sesame Place tickets & info

5. Diversity: San Diego has a diverse community, which makes it an excellent destination for cultural exploration and diversity appreciation.

6. Art: The city has a strong art scene, with several galleries and public art installations to explore.

7. Military History: The city is home to several military bases, making it a great destination for military history buffs. You can visit sites such as the USS Midway or the San Diego Air & Space Museum .

⭐️ More information + tickets for USS Midway Museum ⭐️

8. Youthful Energy: The city is home to several major universities, which adds to its youthful and intellectual vibrancy.

9. Nightlife: The city has a fantastic nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues to explore.

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Food: The food scene in San Diego is thriving, with a wide range of restaurants and breweries to try, such as Stone Brewing. Brunch in particular is excellent in San Diego at restaurants such as Morning Glory. And of course, due to its proximity to Mexico, the Mexican food here is top-notch.

10. LGBTQ-Friendly: San Diego has a strong LGBTQ community and is home to several LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods, such as Hillcrest.

11. Golf Courses: The city has several excellent golf courses, such as Torrey Pines and at La Costa Resort and Spa.

12. Theme Parks: The city has several theme parks, such as LEGOLAND and the San Diego Safari Park , which make it a great destination for families.

✔️ LEGOLAND tickets & info ✔️ San Diego Safari Park tickets & info

13. Markets and Festivals: San Diego has several outdoor markets and festivals throughout the year, such as the Little Italy Mercato , CRSSD, and the San Diego County Fair.

14. Outdoor Activities: San Diego has a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, surfing , and kayaking.

Did you know San Diego has some of the best surf spots in California? Make sure to take a lesson for the full SoCal experience! Or if you’re familiar with surfing, rent a board and enjoy the waves.

👉🏽 Learn more here

15. Accessibility: The city is close to several other popular destinations, such as Los Angeles and Tijuana, making it a great hub for exploring Southern California and Northern Mexico.

Interested in taking a quick trip down to Mexico? ✔️ Check out this walking day tour to Tijuana ✔️ Find out if Rosarito Beach is Safe to Visit

16. Parks: San Diego is home to several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Japanese Friendship Garden and the San Diego Botanic Garden.

17. Craft Beer: The city is known for its excellent craft beer scene, with many local breweries to explore.

⭐️ San Diego Brewery Tour – Visit 3 local breweries! ⭐️

18. Spas: San Diego is home to several excellent spas and wellness centers, making it a great destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.

19. Historic Neighborhoods: The city has several historic neighborhoods, such as Old Town San Diego, Point Loma, and the Gaslamp Quarter, which add to its cultural richness.

20. Good Vibes: San Diego has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, which makes it a great destination for relaxation and stress relief.

21. Architecture: The city is home to several beautiful and unique architectural styles, such as the California Bungalow, Craftsman, and Spanish Colonial Revival.

22. Unique Natural Attractions: San Diego is home to several beautiful and unique hidden gems, such as the Sunny Jim Cave and the Potato Chip Rock, that offer visitors a chance to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

23. Shopping: San Diego has several world-class shopping destinations, such as the Fashion Valley Mall and the Westfield UTC Mall.

24. Wildlife: San Diego is a great destination for animal lovers, with several wildlife reserves and animal sanctuaries to explore, such as the Birch Aquarium . Not to mention the many cruises where visitors can see marine life such as dolphins, sea lions, and whales.

👉🏽 THIS is the top-rated San Diego Whale Watching cruise

25. Performing Arts: The city has several beautiful and historic theaters and performance venues, such as the Old Globe Theater and the Spreckels Theatre.

26. Sports: San Diego is a great destination for sports lovers, with several major sports teams, such as the San Diego Padres.

❗️ Find out how you can go Behind-the-Scenes at Petco Park HERE

27. Missions and Churches: The city has several beautiful and historic churches and religious sites, such as Mission San Diego de Alcala and the Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church.

28. Waterfront Paths and Parks: The city has several beautiful waterfront parks and promenades, such as the Embarcadero and the Waterfront Park.

CONs to Visiting San Diego:

29. Crowds: San Diego (especially in the popular areas) can be crowded, particularly during peak travel seasons, making it difficult to fully enjoy the attractions.

30. Cost: The cost of everything from accommodation to food and parking can be high, which may not fit into everyone’s budget. However, it’s pretty on par with the cost of other big cities in California, everything that draws tourists or is along the coast will be costly here.

31. Traffic: Traffic can be a major challenge, particularly during rush hour and peak travel times. Parking can be difficult as well and costly, especially in the downtown lots.

32. Safety: While San Diego is generally a very safe area, some parts of the city (tends to be southeast of San Diego’s city center) can be unsafe due to crime and homelessness, which may make visitors feel uncomfortable or uneasy.

33. Costly Attractions: Some of the popular attractions, such as SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo, can be expensive, particularly for families.

34. Sprawling Cityscape: The city is quite spread out and consists of many different neighborhoods, making it difficult to get around without a car or ride-sharing services.

35. Weather: While the weather is most often sunny and mild or warm, it can sometimes be unpredictable, with occasional bouts of rain or cooler temperatures, particularly during the winter months .

36. Touristy: The city can be too touristy for some visitors, particularly those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

37. Nightlife: The nightlife scene may not appeal to everyone, particularly those looking for a more vibrant and diverse nightlife. There are a handful of excellent bars, breweries, and nightclubs, but you will certainly find bigger and better nightlife in other cities like Los Angeles.

38. Not Enough of a Big City: The city lacks a cohesive downtown area, which may be disappointing for those looking for a more urban feel.

39. Military Presence: San Diego is a major military area, which may not appeal to everyone or might be a trigger for some visitors.

40. Hot Temperatures: San Diego may not be the best destination for those who prefer cold weather or winter sports, though there are still areas within driving distance to access the snow.

41. Crowds: The city can be very busy during major events, such as Comic-Con, which may make it difficult to navigate and enjoy the city.

42. Too Much of a Big City: The city can be overwhelming for those who are not used to the pace of a large city, particularly those coming from smaller towns or rural areas.

43. Busy Beaches: The beaches can be busy and may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer a more secluded or natural setting.

FAQs to Determine if San Diego Is Worth It

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Is San Diego Safe?

San Diego is generally considered a safe city . While like any other city, there are some areas that have higher crime rates than others, the overall crime rate in San Diego is lower than the national average. The city also has a strong police presence and numerous community programs aimed at crime prevention . However, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety.

What Areas Should I Avoid in San Diego?

There are a few areas that visitors may want to avoid or exercise caution when visiting , particularly at night. One of these areas is East Village, which has a higher crime rate than some of the other neighborhoods in the city. However, during the day, even East Village is generally safe and is near many popular attractions.

Is San Diego a Walkable City?

San Diego is a relatively walkable city, particularly in some of its more densely populated neighborhoods like Downtown, Little Italy, and North Park. These areas are home to many shops, restaurants, and entertainment options that are within easy walking distance.

However, San Diego is also a large city with many suburban areas that may not be as walkable, so it’s important to do some research and plan ahead if you want to explore the city on foot. Additionally, the city has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trolleys , which can make it easier to get around if walking isn’t an option.

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Where Are the Best Places to Stay in San Diego?

San Diego has a variety of great neighborhoods to stay in, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences. Some of the best areas to stay in San Diego include Downtown , which is the city’s central business district and home to many of its top attractions, including the Gaslamp Quarter and the USS Midway Museum.

La Jolla , located on the coast, is another popular neighborhood known for its beautiful beaches, upscale shops, and restaurants. Coronado Island, just across the bay from downtown, is a picturesque community with a small-town feel and the iconic Hotel Del Coronado .

Other great neighborhoods to consider include North Park , a trendy area with an artsy vibe and great nightlife, and Hillcrest , which is known for its LGBTQ-friendly establishments including diverse dining options and a lively atmosphere.

Best Hotels to Stay In

San Diego offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options. For travelers looking for luxury, some of the best places to stay include The Lodge at Torrey Pines in La Jolla , which boasts stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and a world-class golf course, the historic Hotel Del Coronado located on the beautiful Coronado Island, or The US Grant , a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown San Diego.

Mid-range travelers may want to consider staying at the Kimpton Solamar Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, which offers a boutique hotel experience with stylish accommodations and a rooftop pool, or the Courtyard by Marriott San Diego Downtown , which offers comfortable rooms and a convenient location near popular attractions.

For budget travelers, options include the ITH Hostels Downtown San Diego , which offers dorm-style and private rooms at an affordable rate, or the Days Inn by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle , which provides basic amenities and a convenient location at an affordable price.

Is San Diego Cheap or Expensive?

San Diego is generally considered to be an expensive city , particularly when compared to other cities in the United States. The cost of living in San Diego is higher than the national average, with housing being one of the biggest expenses. However, there are still ways to experience San Diego on a budget that makes it worth visiting.

For example, there are many free or low-cost activities , such as hiking in the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve or visiting Balboa Park’s free museums and attractions. Additionally, there are a variety of budget-friendly accommodations , including hostels, motels, and Airbnbs, as well as plenty of affordable dining options.

So while San Diego may not be the cheapest destination, it is still possible to enjoy all that the city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Is San Diego a Beautiful Place?

Yes, San Diego is widely regarded as a beautiful place , with its stunning beaches, coastal cliffs, and year-round mild climate. The city’s natural beauty is complemented by its vibrant cultural scene, world-class attractions, and charming neighborhoods.

What’s So Great About San Diego?

San Diego is a fantastic destination for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back vibe. The city is home to a diverse array of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions, as well as world-renowned museums, outdoor activities, and award-winning dining and craft beer scenes.

San Diego also serves as a gateway to some of Southern California’s top destinations , including Disneyland, Los Angeles, and Joshua Tree National Park.

Why Do Tourists Go to San Diego?

Tourists find San Diego worth visiting for a variety of reasons , including its excellent beaches and surf, mild weather, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is also home to many world-class attractions , including the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and SeaWorld, as well as a thriving culinary and craft beer scene.

What Is the Most Popular City/Area in San Diego?

As the largest city in San Diego County, San Diego has many popular areas and neighborhoods. However, one of the most iconic and popular neighborhoods in San Diego is undoubtedly La Jolla .

Located on the coast, La Jolla is known for its marine life spotting and snorkeling as well as upscale shops and restaurants.

Other popular areas in San Diego include Downtown , with its bustling Gaslamp Quarter , and Coronado Island , known for its historic Hotel Del Coronado and of course, beautiful beaches.

Why Is La Jolla So Popular?

La Jolla is a popular destination for a variety of reasons. One of the main draws is its stunning coastline, which features some of the most picturesque beaches and cliffs in California. La Jolla Cove in particular is known for its fantastic snorkeling, and you will likely spot quite a few seals and sea lions.

The area is also known for its upscale shops (such as along Girard Avenue ), restaurants, and galleries, making it a popular destination for shopping and dining.

Additionally, La Jolla is home to numerous research institutions , including the University of California San Diego and the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, which attract a diverse group of scholars, researchers, and students to the area.

How Many Days Should You Spend in San Diego?

The ideal length of a trip to San Diego depends on individual preferences and interests. However, most visitors find it’s typically worth the visit to spend three to five days exploring the city and its surrounding areas.

This allows enough time to visit top attractions as well as experience the city’s beaches, dining scene, and cultural offerings. Additionally, with its proximity to Baja California and northern Mexico, it often serves as a gateway for adventures into Mexico.

What Is the Best Month to Go to San Diego?

The best time to visit San Diego is generally from March through May (when you can see the epic flower blooms) or from September through November when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. During these months, temperatures are typically in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 Celsius), making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Summer months, from June to August, tend to be the hottest and most crowded , with temperatures often reaching the 80s and 90s Fahrenheit (27-32 degrees Celsius). While the crowds are larger and more hectic during summer, it’s also the time when many of San Diego’s seasonal attractions are open, such as the San Diego County Fair and outdoor concerts.

Winter months, from December to February, tend to be cooler and might be rainy, but also offer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. Plus, there are plenty of holiday activities that travelers may enjoy.

What Is the Cheapest Month to Visit San Diego?

The cheapest month to visit San Diego is typically January. This is because it’s the coldest and rainiest month, which can make it less appealing for visitors.

However, if you don’t mind cooler temperatures and some rain, January can be a great time to save money on travel and accommodations. Additionally, February and December can also offer lower prices on accommodations, but it’s important to keep in mind that prices may be higher during the holiday season.

Overall, traveling during the off-season or shoulder season can often result in lower prices, but it’s important to weigh the savings against potential weather and other factors that may affect your trip to decide if San Diego is worth visiting at this time of year.

Is San Diego or Los Angeles Better to Visit?

Whether San Diego or Los Angeles is better to visit largely depends on personal preferences and interests. San Diego is known for its laid-back beach culture , world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo, and fantastic food and craft beer scenes. It’s also more compact and easier to navigate than sprawling Los Angeles.

On the other hand, Los Angeles is known for its Hollywood glamour , diverse neighborhoods, and iconic attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios. It’s a larger city with more to see and do, but it can also be more challenging to get around due to traffic and distance.

Ultimately, both cities offer unique experiences, attractions, great food, and beaches, and visitors can choose based on their interests and priorities.

>>> Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider

Is It Cheaper to Stay in San Diego or LA?

Generally speaking, it is cheaper to stay in San Diego than in Los Angeles. However, neither city is considered cheap and prices do not vary THAT drastically.

While both cities have a wide range of accommodations available at different price points, San Diego typically offers more affordable options. This is partly because San Diego is a smaller city and has a lower cost of living overall, which can translate to lower hotel rates.

Additionally, Los Angeles is a major tourist destination with many high-end hotels and luxury accommodations, which can drive up prices. However, it’s important to note that prices can vary widely depending on the specific location , time of year, and level of amenities you’re looking for, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices and do your research before booking your stay.

Is San Diego Cleaner Than Los Angeles?

Generally, San Diego is considered to be cleaner than Los Angeles . San Diego is known for its well-kept beaches, parks, and open spaces, and the city takes pride in keeping them clean and well-maintained. Los Angeles is also a much bigger city which makes it harder to keep clean.

San Diego has also implemented programs to reduce litter and pollution, such as its Clean SD initiative , which aims to reduce litter and encourage sustainable practices. While Los Angeles has also made efforts to improve its cleanliness in recent years, it still faces challenges with litter, pollution, and homelessness in many areas.

Ultimately, both cities have their own unique charms and attractions, and visitors can choose based on their interests and priorities.

How Far Apart Are LA and San Diego?

LA and San Diego are located about 120 miles (193 kilometers) apart, with driving time between the two cities taking roughly two to three hours depending on traffic. There are several transportation options available between the two cities, including flying, driving, taking a train or bus, or even taking a private shuttle service.

While it’s possible to make a day trip from one city to the other, many visitors choose to spend a few days exploring each destination in depth.

If you’re thinking about renting a car in California (which is highly recommended) make sure to check out DiscoverCars . They compare prices across leading car rental companies to find you the best deals and lowest prices.

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SO, Is San Diego Worth Visiting?

In conclusion, San Diego is definitely worth visiting for a variety of reasons . From its stunning beaches and world-class attractions to its laid-back vibe and fantastic food and drink scenes, San Diego has something to offer every type of traveler.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history , soaking up the sun on the beach, or indulging in some delicious seafood and craft beer, San Diego has it all. With its mild climate and welcoming atmosphere, San Diego is a destination that visitors can enjoy year-round . So if you’re looking for a fun and memorable vacation, San Diego is definitely worth considering.

Related Posts: 11 Best Places to Stay in San Diego for a Bachelorette Party San Diego’s Dog Society: Revew + Info! Is San Francisco Worth Visiting?

☀️ California FAQs ☀️

✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California? 1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible 2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal

❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care. >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit California? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in California? Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Vrbo • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

🌴 Where Can You Find Tours? I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California? I very highly recommend  renting a car  in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option. >>> Best car rental rates and deals

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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San Diego   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Billy_Dally | Getty Images

32 Fun Things to Do in San Diego

Perched on the scenic Southern California coastline, San Diego's diverse neighborhoods offer something for everyone – whether you're on a family vacation, a girls' getaway or traveling solo. Head to Balboa Park for world-class museums,

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Balboa Park Balboa Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Leave your car in one of the parking lots and take the free Balboa Park Tram that runs every 10 to 15 minutes to get around. Save money with a Balboa Park Explorer Pass, which offers discounts at park museums. – Sharael Kolberg

Home to the renowned San Diego Zoo , this 1,200-acre park is the city's cultural hub. Located in downtown San Diego (about 1 ½ miles north of the city center), Balboa Park is a great place for a stroll, a bike ride or a picnic. Wander around the park's many gardens while admiring the intricate Spanish-Renaissance architecture that permeates the grounds (the best examples are the California Building and the reconstructed House of Hospitality). The Botanical Building is a great starting point in Balboa Park. The building is one of the most photographed places in Balboa Park and is one of the largest lath structures in the world. But don't just look at it. The famous botanical building features more than 2,100 permanent plants, including striking collections of tropical plants and orchids. Balboa Park also features a cactus garden, a rose garden, a Japanese-style garden as well as a palm tree canyon, among many others.

USS Midway Museum USS Midway Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Feel what it's like to be a jet pilot in air-to-air combat in the thrilling flight simulator (for $10 per person; reservations required). Then head to the Flight Deck to see the aircraft up close. – Sharael Kolberg

San Diego is a big military town. You'll likely see bases scattered about while exploring the city, especially around parts of San Diego Bay. The USS Midway is one of these affiliated sites that offers an insider's look into what is normally closed off to the public. The USS Midway is the longest-serving American aircraft carrier of the 20th century, having played host to more than 200,000 sailors over the course of its 47 years of service. This historical relic offers patrons the opportunity to explore approximately 60 different exhibits and more than 30 restored aircraft, including some that have flown in World War II, Operation Desert Storm and the Korean War. During the self-guided audio tour, you'll see the crew's sleeping quarters, the engine room and the primary flight control room, among other areas of the 4-acre flight deck. There are also flight simulators, a cafe and a gift shop.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park San Diego Zoo Safari Park

U.S. News Insider Tip: Spend the night with the animals on a Roar & Snore Safari. Guests sleep in comfortable tent cabins with cots and heaters. Witness the animals' activity after dark and roast s'mores around the campfire. – Sharael Kolberg

If you want more of the San Diego Zoo , head about 35 miles north to its Safari Park in Escondido. Here, you can view some of Africa's most beloved animals – including lions, elephants and cheetahs – roaming free (well, relatively). There are also meerkats, zebras, gorillas and bald eagles, to name a few. True to its name, the park offers a variety of different safaris, including a zip line safari and a wildlife safari in an open-air truck.

Popular Tours

San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise

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San Diego Whale Watching Tour

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San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

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San Diego Bay Cruises San Diego Bay Cruises

San Diego is known for its beaches and beach activities, and one of the best ways to experience the city is from the ocean. Along the city's Embarcadero, you'll find many cruise options, each offering a different experience. Finding the right experience and type of trip depends on your interests and time constraints. There are many one- to two-hour cruises available for people of all ages. Some are whale watching focused , as San Diego is one of the top places for whale watching in the country. Others, such as Flagship Cruises and Events' San Diego Harbor Tour, are sightseeing cruises , which visitors enjoy thanks to the engaging tour guides who narrate as the boat passes notable San Diego landmarks. Families with young children may appreciate the city's SEAL tours, which are narrated by guides on an amphibious vehicle; the tour consists of a 30-minute ride on land coupled with an hourlong ride on the water where passengers often see seals and other wildlife. Couples may be more interested in fine dining cruises, which provide guests with meals or drinks as they float along the city's bay. Options include a luxury dinner cruise from City Experiences or the Champagne brunch cruise from Flagship Cruises and Events . Then, there are cruises for thrill-seekers: Complete with whipping winds and splashing water for a 30-minute ride, boat adventures like the high-speed Patriot Jet Boat ride are not for the faint-hearted. 

Cruises depart from various ports within the harbor. Other attractions like Seaport Village , the USS Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum of San Diego are also nearby, so there are plenty of activities to keep you busy before or after your cruise.

Coronado Beach Coronado Beach free

Compared to Mission Beach , this popular shoreline boasts fewer sunbathers and calmer waves. Just across the bay from San Diego, Coronado Beach is popular with families and couples alike thanks to its long shoreline (affording plenty of room for beachgoers), clean sands, peaceful atmosphere and idyllic location in the "Crown City" (in Spanish, "Coronado" means "crowned one"). In fact, not only is it one of the best beaches in San Diego , it's also considered one of the best California beaches .

While you won't have access to a bustling boardwalk (like that at Mission Beach), you will have plenty of picturesque scenery to admire (besides the surf): magnificent mansions sit behind the beach on Ocean Boulevard. And the Hotel del Coronado – a National Historic Landmark that made its debut in 1888 and appeared in the 1959 Marilyn Monroe film "Some Like It Hot" – is perched just beyond the sand. When you're not boogie boarding or building a sand castle, heed the advice of recent visitors and simply walk the approximately 1.75-mile-long shoreline. Even if you're visiting San Diego during the winter season (December through February) when the water is a little too chilly for swimming, you should still plan to make a stop here for the scenery. And if you enjoy ice skating, the Hotel Del Coronado offers the unique opportunity to ice skate right alongside the beach.

Petco Park Petco Park

Often considered one of the top baseball stadiums in the country, Petco Park is a must-visit for San Diego Padres fans or for anyone who wants to witness a baseball game and take in the striking San Diego skyline. The park, which was built in 2004, sits beside the city's historic Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego's East Village. The stadium reflects its Southern California location through the light sandstone exterior and decorative palm trees and vegetation. San Diego's notoriously sunny and dry weather also makes Petco Park an ideal baseball stadium: The Padres rarely see home games rained out, so it's highly unlikely visitors will need to worry about their plans getting canceled.

The stadium offers tours for anyone who wants to learn more about the ins and outs of the park. The daily tours highlight the press box, the dugout, the Padres Hall of Fame and more. Tours last about 80 minutes and tickets cost $38 for adults. Visitors can purchase tickets online or in person at the Western Metal Supply Building Ticket Windows on Seventh Ave and K Street up to 30 minutes before the tour starts. (The tour schedule differs depending on game days.) On game days, visitors can take a pregame tour. These tours cover most of the same sights as the daily tours, but also let visitors witness the excitement and energy of game preparation; game-day tours may also include the opportunity to watch batting practice. Prices vary depending on the day and time of the tour.

Legoland California Legoland California

Legoland California features much more than the company's ubiquitous plastic building blocks. It boasts an amusement park – one of the top California theme parks – with more than 60 rides and a 10-acre water park with several slides. It also has an interactive aquarium with more than 6,000 animals. Other activities include Lego-related live shows and 4D movies. For a low-key activity, head to MINILAND USA, which features miniature replicas of major cities like San Francisco, Las Vegas, New York City and Washington, D.C., all constructed from millions of Legos. New in 2023, there's also a replica of San Diego that includes Lego reconstructions of all of the city's famous landmarks. 

If this seems like too much to do in a single day, you can reserve one of the resort's hotel rooms , which, of course, are outfitted in decor inspired by Lego product lines. What's more, each room has a separate sleeping area for kids. The park itself houses several restaurants serving kid-approved fare like burgers and pizza, as well as a barbecue eatery that appeals to adults thanks to its craft beer menu.

La Jolla Cove La Jolla Cove free

La Jolla Cove is the jewel of La Jolla. Located across the water from La Jolla Shores , La Jolla Cove may not be much in terms of a beach, but its striking beauty and snorkeling reputation more than make up for it among recent visitors. The site is an ecologically protected area that is home to vibrant wildlife both in and out of the water. In fact, it's not uncommon to spot sea lions hanging close to the cove's bluffs and tide pools. Oftentimes, they even come on the beach. 

This is also an excellent spot for beginner snorkelers. Advanced snorkelers should take advantage of the sea caves located along the bluffs, but only with a guide. If you aren't an advanced snorkeler but still want to see the caves, you can take a kayak tour , or visit the Cave Store, which is home to a human-made tunnel that goes directly inside the Sunny Jim Cave. Travelers say even if you don't plan on swimming or snorkeling, you should still visit the attraction for its picture-perfect setting. 

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Mission Beach Mission Beach free

Mission Beach – one of the top San Diego beaches – is popular with families thanks to its variety of amenities and laid-back vibe. In addition to its approximately 2-mile-long boardwalk, the beach is also home to Belmont Park , a beachfront amusement park featuring arcades and numerous rides, including the Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster – a nearly 100-year-old National Historic Landmark. Mission Beach is also a great spot for beginner surfers (several surf schools offer lessons here).

When lunchtime rolls around, head to one of the many beachside eateries that flank the boardwalk or Mission Boulevard (the area's main thoroughfare), or have a picnic at Bonita Cove, the bayfront park located across the street from Belmont Park that also features a playground as well as several restrooms.

Old Town San Diego Old Town San Diego free

Take a trip back in time at Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, an approximately mile-long and half-mile-wide area contained stretch of preserved or reconstructed shops and houses on the grounds of the first European settlement in California. Widely considered the "birthplace of California," Old Town San Diego shows visitors what it was like to live through different eras of California history, from the time of Spanish explorers to the California gold rush. Some important stops include the adobe Casa de Estudillo, a house built in the 1820s that is one of the oldest surviving Mexican-Spanish-style structures of its type in the state. The park also shelters a reconstruction of San Diego's first brick building, a courthouse first built in the mid-19th century. Nearby the park, the Junípero Serra Museum, named for the Spanish missionary who helped colonize San Diego and other areas of California, is also a must-see because its architecture and location have helped make it a famous San Diego landmark. It sits on a hill in Presidio Park near green spaces, picnic areas and memorials, and it provides great views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. The Whaley House, another of the city's early brick buildings (and one some believe to be haunted), also sits near the park.

There are plenty of shops in the Old Town area, many of which sell handcrafted items from Mexico and other Latin American countries. The town's Mexican heritage is also preserved through the various restaurants that dish out authentic Mexican food. Favorite eateries include El Agave, Cafe Coyote and Tahona Bar. Previous visitors enjoyed simply strolling through the streets, relaxing on the green spaces and listening to mariachi bands. For a little help navigating the area, sign up for one of the best San Diego tours .

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

This oceanfront reserve features 1,750 acres of unspoiled land, including the Torrey pine, America's rarest pine tree. There are approximately 3,000 Torrey pines in the reserve alone, and aside from San Diego, the only other place in the country the pines grow are on Santa Rosa Island off the coast of Santa Barbara . The reserve also houses one of Southern California's last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges. What does that mean for you? Plenty of hiking opportunities (8 miles to be exact). Trails offer a chance to get up close and personal with the attraction's famously beautiful sandstone ravines and badlands, as well as breathtaking views of the coastline. And if you come during the spring, you'll see wildflowers on full display.

Popular trails include the short Guy Fleming Trail (0.7 miles round trip), which features two ocean overlooks, and the longer Razor Point Trail (1.4 miles round trip), which tours more of the sandstone geological features of the reserve. There is also the nearly mile-long Beach Trail that leads to Torrey Pines State Beach. Of all San Diego's beaches , a long walk along Torrey Pines State Beach is a must simply for its views of the towering sandstone cliffs that border it.

San Diego Zoo San Diego Zoo

Spanning 100 acres in Balboa Park , the San Diego Zoo is not only one of the largest zoos in the country, it's also home to one of the largest collections of rare and endangered animals in the world (more than 12,000 animals in total). Amur leopards, jaguars, red pandas, giraffes, elephants and koalas (the largest collection outside of Australia) are just a few of the many animals that call the San Diego Zoo home. The exhibits are linked by an expansive series of trails, such as the Monkey Trail, the Hippo Trail or the Tiger Trail. On these designated pathways, you'll come face to face with numerous exciting creatures, including hippos and bonobos in the Lost Forest, polar bears in the Northern Frontier, rhinos in the Urban Jungle or Chinese alligators in the Discovery Outpost. You'll need plenty of energy – and a map (or smartphone app) – to see everything the zoo has to offer. Should your feet grow weary while exploring, the zoo offers a 35-minute guided bus tour of the park. There's also the Skyfari Aerial Tram that transports visitors from one end of the park to the other, offering a bird's-eye view of the exhibits below. The zoo also hosts animal presentations and animal encounter programs daily, and houses a 4D movie theater that screens educational wildlife films. 

Travelers almost unanimously agree that the San Diego Zoo is the best zoo they have ever visited. Recent visitors were impressed with the vast number of animals on display and the various activities. In fact, many said a daylong visit isn't enough time to see everything. Travelers suggest wearing quality walking shoes, as the distance between some exhibits is considerable. Some recommended hopping on the Kangaroo Bus that stops at four different places in the park, going on the guided bus tour or taking the Skyfari just for the views alone. Though a few reviewers express disappointment with the amount of walking involved and the high prices of admission and concession, visitors say the experience is worth it.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps Birch Aquarium at Scripps

If you're looking for a more affordable alternative to SeaWorld San Diego , consider this small aquarium in La Jolla. Located at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego, the Birch Aquarium overlooks the Pacific Ocean, the source of the fish and invertebrates housed in its more than 60 habitats.

Creatures here include sea turtles, sharks and seahorses (which are a key focus of its conservation efforts). The interactive institution has outdoor pools that allow visitors to have hands-on experiences with young sharks, rays and sea cucumbers. It also offers daily behind-the-scenes tours. Other highlights include a two-story, 70,000-gallon giant kelp forest and a blue penguin exhibit (blue penguins are the world's smallest penguins).

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Sesame Place San Diego Sesame Place San Diego

Sesame Place is a kid-oriented destination inspired by the "Sesame Street" TV series. It features a neighborhood constructed to resemble the show's set with recognizable locations like Hooper's Store and Big Bird's Nest. This is where children can have their photos taken with some of their favorite puppet characters (or adults dressed to look like them) or hear them tell stories. Sesame Place also has a variety of themed rides, including Super Grover’s Box Car Derby (a family-friendly roller coaster) and the Sunny Day Carousel, as well as numerous water slides. Sesame Place also stages live parades and shows featuring Bert, Ernie and the rest of the gang. In addition, it has several on-site eateries, such as Oscar's Grouchy Grub and Grover's Grill.

Visitors – adult ones, anyway – point out this is primarily a place for children to romp and may be of limited interest to anyone else. Some say that despite the "Sesame Street" trappings, it’s essentially a water park. (Indeed, it was adapted from the former SeaWorld Aquatica San Diego water park.) And others grumble that it can get rather expensive. Even so, many say that if you enter knowing what to expect, and with companions of the appropriate age in tow, you can have a magical time here.

Pacific Beach Pacific Beach free

Pacific Beach – one of the top San Diego beaches – is popular with college students thanks to its lively atmosphere and proximity to bars and restaurants. Families looking for a quieter stretch of sand may want to venture a little farther south to Mission Beach . Pacific Beach is a popular surf spot that's home to Tourmaline Surfing Park, which is known for its slow waves that are ideal for novices. This section of Pacific Beach is not swimmable, but even if you don't want to try your hand at surfing it's still a fun place to watch others ride the waves, according to past travelers.

Pacific Beach earns high marks from reviewers for its beautiful views and clean shores. Others appreciate the variety of eateries that sit within walking distance of the sand. Aside from Mission Boulevard, you can find a heavy concentration of bars and nightlife options on Garnet Avenue and Grand Avenue. If you don't want to experience this side of Pacific Beach, take a walk along Crystal Pier or stick to the beach north of this pier (a popular area for families). 

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand breakfast, head to the whimsical, pink-themed Morning Glory restaurant. The soufflé pancakes, dim sum cart and spro (espresso) are worth the long wait in line. – Sharael Kolberg

Centered around the 10,000-square-foot Piazza della Famiglia, a European-style plaza connecting Columbia and India streets, Little Italy is a neighborhood teeming with restaurants, cafes, art galleries, craft beer taprooms and boutiques. Here, old-school eateries like Mona Lisa Italian Foods, Filippi's Pizza Grotto and Waterfront Bar & Grill neighbor trendy, upscale establishments like Kettner Exchange, Juniper & Ivy and The Crack Shack.

Gaslamp Quarter Gaslamp Quarter free

The Gaslamp Quarter's 16 blocks are peppered with Victorian-style buildings that now house a variety of shops, art galleries, theaters and trendy restaurants, not to mention plenty of bars and clubs. The area stretches from L Street all the way up to Broadway, including Sixth, Fifth and Fourth avenues as well as out to First Avenue at G Street. The Gaslamp Quarter Association, the city of San Diego and other groups devised a plan to transform some of these streets into car-free plazas collectively called the Gaslamp Promenade. The best place to start your tour of the Gaslamp Quarter is at the Gaslamp Quarter Gate itself, located at L Street and Fifth Avenue. Fifth Avenue is considered downtown San Diego's main thoroughfare. You'll find the most action here, especially at night. Thanks to all of its amenities, the Gaslamp Quarter is San Diego's premier nightlife destination. If you're not a night owl, another way to experience the Gaslamp Quarter's lively atmosphere is to take advantage of the patio seating offered at some of the neighborhood's restaurants, or venture to one of the many rooftop bars (the Andaz San Diego  boasts 360-degree views of the city's skyline). For help navigating the neighborhood, sign up for one of the best San Diego tours .

Past visitors say this is the area to stay in if you're looking for a hip, busy scene. The Gaslamp Quarter also hosts many annual events year-round, including San Diego Comic-Con. However, because it's so popular, travelers also warn that parking can be limited, especially when there's a game or event at Petco Park . Consider using public transportation instead; several bus lines stop in the area. If you do drive, you can park at Horton Plaza Park or one of the other structures in the area (where rates vary by day of the week, time of day and length of your stay). To avoid all parking fees, you can park at the Old Town Transit Center for free and take the trolley from there, which goes straight into downtown San Diego. You'll find the Gaslamp Quarter in the heart of San Diego, southwest of Balboa Park . The bars, restaurants and stores maintain different hours of operation, so check out the neighborhood's website for more information and to read more about upcoming events.

Seaport Village Seaport Village free

If you want to spend the afternoon watching ships float in and out of the harbor while sipping coffee or shopping for souvenirs, Seaport Village is the place to go. Located on the San Diego waterfront not far from the USS Midway Museum and the convention center, the 14-acre village is home to more than 50 shops, 13 casual dining outlets and four fine dining restaurants. Even visitors who aren't particularly fond of shopping said they still enjoyed strolling the 4 miles of cobblestone paths winding through the sunny outdoor complex. What's more, it's the jumping-off point for one of the best California tours within San Diego: the San Diego Seal Tour. If you're looking for panoramic sea views, grab a bite at Edgewater Grill. And at the end of the day, Seaport Village is a great place to watch the sun set over the Pacific. Many visitors also appreciate the view it affords of the Coronado Bridge.

Seaport Village is also a popular entertainment venue. If you're visiting San Diego in March, don't miss Busker Fest – a free event showcasing street performers from all over the globe. There is also live music every weekend on stages in the Carousel and Lighthouse districts.

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La Jolla Shores La Jolla Shores free

Known for its gentle waves and active beachgoers, La Jolla Shores is an ideal place to relax for a few hours. Locals and tourists hit this beach to surf, see marine life and enjoy the clean ocean water and sand. Families flock to La Jolla Shores and appreciate the reliable lifeguard presence and ample public restrooms. Adjacent to the beach is the La Jolla Underwater Park Ecological Reserve, which houses two artificial reefs meant to attract marine life. Its perimeter is marked with buoys to enforce the strict no fishing rules. Along with fishing, collecting seashells is prohibited, as the area is part of the Marine Life Refuge used by the Scripps Institute of Oceanography for research. Away from the protected refuge, surfers and boogie boarders come to catch waves in designated zones. Additionally, kayak and snorkeling gear rentals are available and visitors can sign up for scuba diving classes ahead of time.  La Jolla Kayak  and  San Diego Bike and Kayak Tours  are two companies that offer rental equipment.

There are a handful of dining options where visitors can grab a quick bite or nice meal just a short walk from the shore. For a prime vantage point, visitors suggest seeking out one of the rooftop decks at the local bars, where you can enjoy shoreline views and vibrant sunsets over cocktails.

Liberty Public Market Liberty Public Market free

If you find yourself hungry and near the San Diego Bay, look no further than Liberty Public Market for a delicious solution. Housed in a former Navy training building within the Arts District of Liberty Station, the market features more than 30 independently run food stalls, each with its own unique flair. Visitors can stroll through the bustling market and sample a variety of cuisines, including pizza, tacos, salads and more. Some stalls have more specific products, such as Baker & Olive, which sells premium olive oil and balsamic vinegar, or Old Town Soap Company, which offers natural self-care and wellness products. Beer, wine and cocktails are also available.

Visitors say the Liberty Public Market is perfect for anyone traveling with a large group, as everyone is sure to find something they like. For more shopping, guests can venture outside to the various other accessory stores around Liberty Station.

San Diego Golf Courses San Diego Golf Courses

With more than 70 courses and temperate weather year-round, the San Diego area ranks as a top destination for golfers. The city of San Diego operates three municipal courses: Balboa Park Golf Course, which boasts views of the nearby downtown area as well as the Pacific Ocean; Mission Bay Golf Course, the only one in the city with night lighting; and Torrey Pines Golf Course, which also features ocean views and has hosted some prestigious professional competitions. All three are regarded as among the best in the area.

Recent players called the Balboa Park course both challenging and fun, and enjoyed its scenic views. Golfers regularly describe the Mission Bay course as small, but frequently cite the friendliness of the staff. Golf enthusiasts rave about the Torrey Pines course with some saying their time there was the highlight of their trip to San Diego. Visit the city's parks and recreation department's website for information on reserving tee times.

Children's Pool in La Jolla Children's Pool in La Jolla free

Animal lovers are sure to enjoy Children's Pool beach in La Jolla. Because of the California coast's sometimes harsh waves, a seawall was built in the 1930s on a portion of the beach to make the waters calmer for children. However, builders didn't realize the calm waters would appeal to seals as well. In recent years, seals have started flocking to Children's Pool to bask in the sun, play in the water and give birth to their pups. The wildlife phenomenon has turned the beach into a must-see tourist attraction.

Visitors can walk out onto the seawall to watch the seals from above, and many agreed Children's Pool was one of the highlights of their San Diego trip. They suggest bringing binoculars to see the seals and jackets as it can get chilly on the seawall. They also warn the abundance of seals can sometimes result in a rather pungent scent, but seeing the animals in their natural habitat is worth it.

Maritime Museum of San Diego Maritime Museum of San Diego

The Maritime Museum offers a hands-on look at San Diego's days as a bustling seaport. You can tour all types of historic vessels, from sailing ships to submarines, including the world's oldest active ship, the Star of India. If exploring boats doesn't satisfy your craving for a nautical experience, set sail on one of the museum's vessels, such as the Californian, the official tall ship of the state of California. Prices and tour availability vary by boat, so make sure to check the website for more information. 

Recent visitors said the boat tours gave them a new understanding of the workmanship and skill required of sailors. Past travelers also note that you should allot yourself plenty of time to explore the various ships. Along with the boat tours, you can also tour several permanent and visiting exhibits that detail San Diego's maritime legacy through art and artifacts. Travelers say the exhibits are fascinating, even for youngsters. 

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Belmont Park Belmont Park

A trip to San Diego is not complete without a visit to beachfront amusement park and boardwalk Belmont Park. The park, which has been in operation since 1925, offers something for everyone. Those looking for a thrill can ride the iconic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and the spinning Beach Blaster, while those who prefer something calmer can enjoy the carousel, go mini golfing or hit the arcade. Additional activities and attractions include rock climbing, bumper cars, zip lining and laser tag. Despite the park's busy location ( Mission Beach ), previous visitors were pleased that the lines were usually short. However, they advise going in the morning or evening to minimize wait times regardless. Belmont Park also features a variety of retails shops and equipment rental vendors. Visitors also enjoy Plunge San Diego, the park's indoor pool that features beach views.

Belmont Park serves typical amusement park fare (like hot dogs, ice cream and burgers). The park is also home to a handful of upscale restaurants, including seafood and sushi spot Cannonball, which offers one of the city's largest rooftops and overlooks Mission Beach.

Torrey Pines Gliderport Torrey Pines Gliderport

Travelers can take in Torrey Pines' unique coastal scenery from a new perspective at Torrey Pines Gliderport. The gliderport is one of the top spots in California for paragliding, hang gliding, remote control models and sailplanes. In operation for almost a century, this unique adventure hub allows visitors to witness the beautifully preserved California coastline from above. Each tandem paragliding and hang gliding flight (in which you fly with an instructor) lasts 20 to 25 minutes and gives visitors the chance to witness the sandstone cliffs, golf courses and vibrant water from the sky before landing back where they started – 350 feet above Black's Beach. (Or, depending on wind conditions, gliders may land on the beach itself and hike back to the top of the cliff.) Anyone of any age can sign up for a tandem gliding ride, but minors must get formal approval from their parents or guardians.

Visitors say the rides are worth the price because it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many; they rave about the guides who made them feel safe and also made the ride fun.

SeaWorld San Diego SeaWorld San Diego

Though you may spot wildlife at any one of San Diego's beaches (especially Pacific and Mission beaches) none put on quite as good a show as the performers at SeaWorld. Here, you'll get to see a range of animals, including dolphins, California sea lions, California otters and sea turtles, among others. As for the rides, travelers love the lightning-fast Manta roller coaster, but caution against the Journey to Atlantis or Shipwreck Rapids rides if you don't want to get wet. In 2022, the park added the Emperor, which it bills as California's tallest and fastest roller coaster with a 14-story vertical drop and speeds of up to 60 mph. For something a little more low-key, head to any one of the park's animal exhibits, such as the underwater shark-viewing tunnel or the penguin habitat, which features nearly 400 penguins. There's also the Sesame Street Bay of Play (included in your SeaWorld general admission ticket), which features various wet and dry playgrounds, as well as a bounce house, climbing structure and smaller rides suited for children and toddlers.

Recent visitors had a blast at SeaWorld, especially those with kiddos in tow. Travelers say you can't miss a show, with many being fond of the dolphin show in particular. Make sure to arrive early though, as lines can get long. Travelers also highly recommended wearing quality walking shoes and bringing an extra jacket or change of clothes in case you get wet on the rides or at the shows (there's a splash zone for most). Travelers who didn't bring a change of clothes said they were miserable walking around the park wet and balked at the high price of clothing available at the park.

Cabrillo National Monument Cabrillo National Monument

The southernmost tip of Point Loma is where you'll find the Cabrillo National Monument. The statue depicts Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo who, in 1542, was the first European explorer to navigate the California coast. Situated about 10 miles southwest of downtown San Diego, this monument is much more than just a memorializing effigy. The main reason people make the journey to the monument is for its incredible views. From the monument, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific as well as downtown San Diego, Coronado, and on a clear day, the mountains of Tijuana, Mexico.

Once you've gotten your fill from the top, walk or drive down Cabrillo Road to experience the Point Loma Tide Pools, or take a scenic walk along the coastal trail. There's also the 2.5-mile Bayside Trail that cascades down into the east side of the point and ends right above the bay waters. For those more interested in the historical aspect of the attraction, the National Park Service site features ranger talks further explaining the story behind the Cabrillo Monument as well as the restored Old Point Loma Lighthouse, located a short walk south from the monument on Humphreys Road. 

Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial free

Situated in La Jolla, less than 3 miles south of La Jolla Shores , the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial was built in 1954 to honor every U.S. veteran, living or deceased, from the Revolutionary War to the present day. Along with a massive cross, there are also a series of 11 walls displaying more than 3,500 granite plaques devoted to individual military persons and their accomplishments. Volunteer docents are on hand to answer questions. The memorial conducts ceremonies honoring veterans each Friday morning as well as special events on holidays like Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

In addition to its solemn purposes, the site atop its namesake mountain boasts exceptional views of the Pacific Ocean, downtown San Diego and, to the east, the mountains. Visitors frequently remark on the beautifully realized tribute to servicemen and women, as well as the unrivaled views of the surrounding area.

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Silver Strand State Beach Silver Strand State Beach

Situated on a sand-spit between Coronado and Imperial Beach, Silver Strand State Beach stretches for 2 ½ miles on the Pacific Ocean and another half-mile on San Diego Bay and offers exceptional views of both bodies of water. It's a popular spot for boating, surfing, picnicking, water-skiing, fishing, volleyball and camping. The Bayshore Bikeway – a 24-mile bike route that extends from Coronado through Imperial Beach and Chula Vista into downtown San Diego – passes through the area. Silver Stand takes its name from the iridescent oyster shells that cover the sand and make it a popular destination for shell collectors. South of the beach, a trail leads to San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge.

Recent visitors say Silver Strand is an attractive and clean place with a relaxed atmosphere. They also confirm that it's a popular spot for RV camping.

Sunset Cliffs Sunset Cliffs free

A few miles from Cabrillo National Monument , Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is another excellent place for ocean views in Point Loma. Situated about 9 miles due west of downtown San Diego, Sunset Cliffs stretches across 68 acres and runs 1.5 miles along Point Loma peninsula's western shoreline. The dramatic sandstone cliffs and untouched vegetation along with its stunning ocean vistas make for an unforgettable stroll. The area is also home to a few secluded beaches as well, though getting to them can be tricky. There is a beach popular with locals at the beginning of Cordova Street off of Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, but you have to traverse down the steep cliffs to get there. For an easier descent, head to the end of Sunset Cliffs Boulevard at Ladera Street and take a walk down the available stairway. It won't lead you to the beach, but it will get you just above the crashing waves. You can reach the sand by wading through water on the rocky shore. Nicknamed Garbage Beach for the kelp covering the rocks, the area is pretty popular with surfers, so expect to see lots of locals catching waves. If you venture farther up into Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, you'll find plenty of walking trails right along the ocean and through the coastal scrub that dot the area. 

As its name implies, sunset is a popular time to visit the park and recent visitors say arguably the best. If you want to avoid the crowds at dusk, try to plan a mid-week trip rather than a weekend visit. Travelers recommend bringing along a sweatshirt in case the ocean breeze gets a little too chilly. Past visitors also suggest using the restroom before stopping here as there are no facilities on-site. You can get to Sunset Cliffs via public transportation. If you're staying downtown, take the trolley to Old Town Transit Center then catch the No. 35 bus and it will take you to the beginning of the cliffs. Sunset Cliffs has no opening or closing hours, though it's best to go when there's light for maximum visibility. People have had accidents falling off of the cliffs, so be sure to observe the signs marking unstable cliffs. For more information, visit the parks and recreation website .

San Diego Wine Tasting & Tours San Diego Wine Tasting & Tours

San Diego is home to numerous, mostly family-owned, wineries and tasting rooms located in areas throughout the county, including Escondido, Julian, Solana Beach, Ramona, Carlsbad and in the city proper. The climate and soil are conducive to growing grapes for award-winning artisan wine. You'll find everything from sprawling vineyards like Bernardo Winery with 2,500 vines, or Pali Wine Co.'s charming tasting room in Little Italy , to beachside wineries, such as Gianni Buonomo Vintners, or mountain wineries like Hawk Watch Winery. There is a large range of varietals grown in this area, such as pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, petite syrah, sangiovese and more. Original offerings include almond Champagne and chocolate port by Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards.

Whether you want to get out of town and take a scenic drive to visit one of the winery estates or just want to stop by a quaint wine tasting room in downtown San Diego, these hidden gems are worth exploring while in the area. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, consider signing up for one of the best Temecula wine tours . Located in the hills of Southern California's wine country between Los Angeles and San Diego, Temecula is home to dozens of wineries.

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park

The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park is a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue operated by the San Diego Symphony. Located at the Embarcadero Marina Park South, this venue, which opened in 2021, was a five-year collaboration between the San Diego Symphony and leading architects, design firms, sound engineers, construction experts, fabricators and audiovisual teams. It's recognized for its unique and stunning shell design, which it describes as "acoustically superior." Visitors can listen to a variety of live music at this waterfront venue while dining on locally sourced culinary offerings. Musical performances range from classical to pop, with concerts by artists like Michael Bolton, Van Morrison and Counting Crows, to name a few.

Past visitors raved about the scenic waterfront venue, applauding the acoustics and the stunning harbor views.

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PRESENTED BY SAN DIEGO TOURISM

The essential guide to visiting San Diego

Here’s all the info you need to explore the southern California city’s sunny beaches, eclectic museums, and charming historic neighborhoods.

Why you should visit San Diego

Seventy miles of sun-kissed coastline . The San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park. Pop-culture fest Comic-Con . California’s first Catholic mission .

Best time to visit San Diego

Spring:   In March and April, golden yarrows, mariposa lilies, and California poppies burst forth in Mission Trails Regional Park . Pink and white blooms star in March’s Cherry Blossom Festival in the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum .

Summer: Temperatures in the 70s Fahrenheit make summer an ideal time to walk, surf, or sunbathe on local beaches like Torrey Pines   and La Jolla Shores . Iconic seasonal events include Comic-Con International downtown and the S an Diego Pride Parade , which brings up to 300,000 revelers to Hillcrest.

Autumn:   Experience one of the country’s largest Day of the Dead processions (plus live music and food vendors) in Barrio Logan . Snorkel amid the (harmless) leopard sharks in La Jolla in September, the best time to spot the timid creatures.

Winter:   From December to March, around 20,000 gray whales migrate from Alaska to Baja California, passing through the deep waters off the San Diego coast. Take a whale-watching cruise from Mission Bay, keeping an eye out for dolphin mega pods. February is Museum Month , with half-price admission to over 40 city showplaces, including the Whaley House Museum in Old Town, the USS Midway Museum in downtown, and the Women’s Museum of California   in Balboa Park.

Lay of the land

Coastal neighborhoods:   Traveling south, stop at Gliderport for the hang-gliding school in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . (Tip: Tandem rides offer amazing ocean views.) Avoid tourist-clogged Mission Beach and head instead to the coastal village of La Jolla , set amid pine trees, craggy cliffs, and sparkling tide pools. Visit the recently revamped Museum of Contemporary Art , then catch a Broadway musical at La Jolla Playhouse , founded by actor Gregory Peck in 1945.

Urban neighborhoods:   Historic Gaslamp Quarter , with its Victorian-style flickering streetlights, is the city’s nightlife hub. Dance to hip-hop and electronica at Bloom or soak up the views of the bay from Altitude Sky Lounge . Nearby, Little Italy   comprises 48 square blocks of outdoor restaurants, patio cafés, and wineries. Stop for a slice at Filippi’s Pizza Grotto (established in 1950) then head five minutes north to the famed Ballast Point Brewery , which has more than 25 beers on tap.

Inland neighborhoods:   Historic neighborhoods east of downtown include Old Town , the first European settlement in California, where you can drop by the 19th-century adobe Casa de Estudillo . In nearby Mission Valley, explore California’s first church: the serene, whitewashed Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá . Hillcrest holds gay-friendly bars, restaurants, and boutiques, as well as The Center —the heart of San Diego’s LGTBQ+ community since 1971.

Getting around San Diego

By bus:   MTS operates bus routes throughout the city. Plan your trip and buy tickets at the MTS website or on the PRONTO app. Greyhound   and   Flixbus   offer regular daily services to San Diego from all major U.S. cities, including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.

By car:   With about 1,800 charging stations across the city, San Diego is one of the most EV-friendly destinations in the U.S. No matter what you drive, parking can be a challenge, so check Parkopedia for nearby lots and parking structures, and use ride-shares when possible.

By train:   Amtrak   connects San Diego with many U.S. cities. Pacific Surfliner runs north and south along the coast from Oakland to the Downtown San Diego Amtrak Station, with stops at San Francisco, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles.

By trolley:   The bright-red, eco-friendly San Diego trolley crisscrosses through the city, connecting neighborhoods such as downtown, Old Town, and Mission Valley.

Know before you go

Languages: English is the official language, but many people speak Spanish as well.

Wildlife awareness:   Stingrays are ubiquitous in the summer months; remember to shuffle your feet through the sand when entering the ocean to warn them you are coming.

LGBTQ+:   San Diego has the 7th highest LGBTQ+ population in the U.S. In a 2023 report by financial news website 24/7 Wall St., California was ranked the most queer-friendly state in the country. Just north of Balboa Park,   Hillcrest is home to Rich’s , a celebrated gay club, and Hillcrest Brewing Company , which claims to be the world’s first gay brewery.

How to visit San Diego sustainably

Outdoors: San Diego was recently ranked the Greenest City in America . Cycling lanes are abundant; use the regional bike map to navigate. San Diego Natural History Museum offers a new native plant nature trail and a canyoneer-led hiking program with guided walks through desert, beach, or mountain wilderness.  

Shopping:   In hip   North Park , browse along Main Street for locally made gifts, jewelry, and vintage clothing. For secondhand surfboards, try Bird’s Surf Shed   near Mission Bay.

Dining:   Visit restaurants under the Farm to Fork   banner. Members are committed to ethically sourced food and support local farmers and fishermen. Look for the summer 2024 opening of Michelin star chef Drew Deckman’s Watershed . The North Park restaurant will donate 1 percent of monthly revenue to sustainable farming projects.

What to read and watch

The House of Broken Angels , by Luis Alberto Urrea. This Mexican-American family saga explores issues surrounding immigration, identity, and loss in San Diego and across the border.

Mister Magic , by Kiersten White. The San Diegan horror writer serves up a creepy tale of 1990s child television stars who reunite to solve a cold case.

Veronica Mars , directed by Rob Thomas. San Diego stood in for the fictional Neptune, California, in this beachy noir TV series (and movie) starring Kristen Bell as a hardboiled, soft-hearted teenage sleuth.

For more local literature, visit the San Diego Festival of Books in August.

( For more tips on what to do in San Diego, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• TRANSPORTATION

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San Diego Itinerary: 9 Unmissable Things To Do In 3 Perfect Days

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 13, 2020

San Diego is an outdoors-orientated, laid back and trendy city boasting the best tacos in America. You’re in the perfect place to plan your first time San Diego vacation itinerary, we’ll show you the best things to do in just three days.

San Diego has an enormous amount of fantastic things to do for first time visitors, from beaches to museums and from the zoo to awesome photography locations.

It’s a place you visit on vacation, fall in love with and begin planning your move to Southern California.

Three days is the perfect timeframe for a first time visit to San Diego but you will also find a modified one and/or two day San Diego itinerary in case you have less time available.

To help you plan your entire San Diego vacation efficiently, we will cover the 4 major aspects of planning: how you get there, the best things to do, where you should eat and where you should stay.

In addition, you will discover all of the top photography locations around San Diego.

(We promise not to quote the entirety of Anchorman – that would be very Veronica ‘Corny’ stone of us)

Let’s get planning your San Diego vacation itinerary!

Get To Know San Diego

Before we dive into the itinerary, here’s a roundup of what you can expect from your San Diego adventure, featuring key information, top reasons to visit San Diego and some fun facts!

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway ? Don’t miss our popular guide to the 23 best places to visit on the drive from San Diego to San Francisco along Highway 1.

How To Get To San Diego

Flights To San Diego

Flights to San Diego International Airport – You can fly direct into San Diego from many parts of the US.

Internationally (outside of continental North America) you can fly direct to/from Zurich, Frankfurt, London and Tokyo. See map of direct flights in/out of San Diego

Flights to Los Angeles – We highly recommend checking prices for flying to LA, hiring a car and driving to San Diego.

It is very likely international travelers to San Diego will find better value for money in this option. Plus, you’ll need a car in San Diego to hit the highlights so you’ve ticked that box with a hire car.

If you’re flying into San Diego or Los Angeles,  search for flights with Skyscanner for best value and most options, remembering that if you are budget conscious it could be cheaper with a change of airport on the way.

Afterward  compare prices for a hire car with Rental Cars and check value against other car hire companies to see if you can find a better price.

Read: Our 15 money saving booking flights tips every time you travel.

Driving To San Diego

Downtown los angeles to san diego.

Take I-5 South for 120 miles all the way down to San Diego. It doesn’t get much easier!

Without incident or worse than usual traffic, the drive should take around 2 hours. However, be prepared for a much longer journey.

We got stuck in a very slow moving traffic jam the entire way and it took closer to 4 hours.

LAX to San Diego

Los Angeles airport isn’t far from Santa Monica and you have 2 choices to get to San Diego. You need to get onto the I-5, so you can either:

• Head East towards Anaheim to join I-5
• Or take I-405 South to join the I-5 just past Newport Beach

Journey time and distance are similar (125 miles / just under 2 hours), it could come down to potluck of traffic on the day.

Other Notable Driving Times

• Las Vegas is around 5 hours drive
• Joshua Tree National Park is 2 hours 45 minutes away
• Phoenix is 5 hours 30 minutes drive
• San Francisco is 8 hours 30 minutes drive

Getting Around in San Diego

San Diego has a very walkable downtown, particularly around Gaslamp and Embarcadero along the harbor front. However, you will need a vehicle to access many of the best bits outside of town.

Public transport is a little slow in San Diego and most people drive here. There are a lot of one way roads downtown, so make sure your GPS is up to date!

Use Uber if you don’t have a car and need to travel across town.

Even though we had a car, we left it parked at the hotel and took an Uber from Balboa Park to Embarcadero -more on these places below.

San Diego’s climate is perfect for exploring, it rarely gets too hot like Death Valley – or too cold like Yosemite in Winter brrrrrr!

9 Best Things To Do On Your San Diego Itinerary

San Diego is overflowing with awesome things to do for first time visitors. But there are some things you simply can’t miss.

This is one of the best places to visit in the USA and we want to help you plan the perfect vacation.

You will find the top things to do below but there will be more included in your San Diego itinerary later.

1. Balboa Park

What Is Balboa Park?

Balboa Park is not just a park with grass, dog walkers and early morning joggers. No, this is San Diego’s sparkling inner-city cultural diamond.

Balboa Park is a 2,000 acre sprawling urban park containing beautiful gardens, performing arts and more museums than you can shake a stick at.

Why Visit Balboa Park?

Balboa Park is the perfect family day. You could spend an entire day here and still not explore every museum, garden and arts center!

There are walking trails if you’re an early bird staying close by and one of San Diego’s best photography locations is right in Balboa Park (more later).

Oh, and the world famous San Diego zoo is here too!

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular places to visit for you to consider adding to your itinerary:

San Diego Air and Space Museum

San Diego air and space museum features collection from the early gliders and hot air balloons to jets and helicopters from the world wars.

• Opening Hours : 10.00am – 4.30pm
• Tickets : US$ 19.95 adult
• Air and Space Website

Balboa Park Alcazar Gardens

Alcazar gardens design and pattern is a replica of the gardens of Alcazar Castle in Seville, Spain from 1935.

You will find manicured gardens filled with vibrant flowers, ornate fountains and colorful Moorish tiles.

• Opening Hours : 6.00am – 10.00pm
• Tickets : Free

Botanical Building and Lily Pond

A gorgeous, calming lily pond sitting in front of the Botanical Building and forms one of Balboa Park’s most iconic photographs.

Inside, the Botanical Building features more than 2,000 permanent plants and beautiful seasonal flowers.

• Opening Hours : 10.00am – 4.00pm, Fri – Wed (closed Thur)

Spreckels Organ Pavillion

The Spreckels organ contains more than 5,000 pipes, ranging in length from minuscule to gigantic. Think a few inches to over 30 feet!

This is the largest outdoor organ in the world and if you time it right on a Sunday at 2pm (no matter the weather), you will be able to watch a 1 hour free concert.

• Opening Hours : Always open

San Diego Museum of Art

You can find over 20,000 objects dating from as far back as 3,000BC at the San Diego Museum of Art.

The museum holds Spanish, Latin American, Asian and European art from Renaissance and Baroque to Modern and Contemporary.

A must for art lovers visiting San Diego!

• Opening Hours : Mon, Tues, Thurs & Sat – 10.00am – 5.00pm; Weds – Closed, Fri – 10.00am – 8.00pm, Sun – 12.00pm – 5.00pm
• Tickets : US$ 15.00 adult
• Art Museum Website

The Old Globe Theater

You may have heard of the old globe before but most likely associated with Shakespeare’s old globe in London.

Well, San Diego modeled their performing arts theater on the very same one right inside Balboa Park way back in 1935.

More than 250,000 people attend a variety of shows at the Old Globe and as you can see from our photo above one of those is Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas, which is performed each year before Christmas.

Coming from England and New York respectively, it is surreal to consider Christmas while wearing shorts on a beautiful sunny day!

• Opening Hours : Varied
• Tickets : Varied
• Old Globe Website

Japanese Friendship Garden

The Japanese Friendship Garden of was 1991 as an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city Yokohama in Japan.

Beautifully curated and manicured gardens are extremely popular in Japan and here you have the chance to immerse yourself into Japanese culture of serenity.

The 12 acre plot of land is filled with flora, arranged stones and water features to resemble a traditional Japanese garden but has been adapted to suit San Diego’s climate.

Over 250,000 tourists visit the garden each year.

• Opening Hours : 10am – 6.00pm
• Tickets : US$ 12.00 adult
• Friendship Garden Website

San Diego Museum of Man and California Tower

San Diego’s Museum of Man ( recently rebranded to Museum of Us ) features a weird and wonderful collection of, well, almost anything you can think of!

From human relationships, connections and self-reflection to the history of beer, monsters and even cannibalism. Like we said, weird but maybe wonderful?!

The iconic California Tower is almost 200 feet tall and can be seen from across Balboa Park. The finely intricate tower can be toured as part of the Museum of Us.

• Opening Hours : 10.00am – 5.00pm
• Tickets : Museum – US$ 13 adult, Museum & Tower – US$ 23
• Museum of Us Website

Spanish Art Village Center

In a Spanish Village with traditional Spanish building and tiled floors you will find over 200 working artists creating art year round.

Walk among painters, sculptors, glass, enamel and clay artists to appreciate the craft and observe the processes taking place.

• Opening Hours : 11.00am – 4.00pm
• Spanish Village Website

2. San Diego Zoo

What is the San Diego Zoo?

San Diego zoo is one of the most famous and revered zoo’s in the US, receiving a staggering 4 million visitors each year.

It was one of the pioneers for creating open air natural habitats for many of its resident animals and houses over 3,000 animals.

The zoo’s most iconic animals were giant pandas who were repatriated to China in 2019.

Why visit the San Diego Zoo?

It doesn’t get much better if you are traveling to San Diego as a family with children but you don’t need to have kids to enjoy this mammoth sized zoo.

You will lose a lot of time but it is one of the best zoo’s you’re likely to visit.

You can take a tourist double decker bus around the entire zoo or walk from one area to the next, including Australian Outback and Africa Rocks.

• Opening Hours : Weekdays – 9.00am – 6.00pm, Weekends – 9.00am – 7.00pm
• Tickets : US$ 65 adult | Buy tickets here
• Zoo Website

3. Gaslamp Quarter

What is the Gaslamp Quarter?

Gaslamp is the 16 square block beating heart of San Diego, the focal point drawing tourists in like an unstoppable gravitational force.

It is here you will find over 100 restaurants, bars, nightclubs, comedy clubs, cafes, rooftops and live music venues.

The name derives from gas lamp street lights and the neighborhood retains its Victorian-era feel while modernizing with skyscrapers.

Why visit the Gaslamp Quarter?

This is the place to be see and be seen, the place to eat and the place to party in San Diego.

During the day you can find artisan markets and boutique shops running the length of the street.

The street often closes to traffic and restaurants open up outdoor seating spilling into the road, creating an electric but chilled atmosphere.

Try out a rooftop bar, taste some craft beers or treat yourself to some fine dining.

We loved Gaslamp Quarter, even if it is a little touristy.

4. USS Midway Museum

What is the USS Midway?

The USS Midway was the longest serving Aircraft Carrier in the 20th century before its decommission in San Diego, 1992.

Among the Midways achievements are first carrier to extensively operate in Sub-Arctic waters, first landing of a jet with autopilot, Vietnam war pilots shooting down MiG’s, evacuation of Saigon and Persian Gulf flagship.

It has been a museum since 2004, receiving around 1 million visitors each year.

Why visit the USS Midway?

The Midway has over 10 acres worth of exhibits to explore through the hangar, flight deck and below deck.

Plus, you can discover over 30 restored aircraft and helicopters, including the F-14 Tomcat made famous by the 80’s movie Top Gun.

You will also find simulators, programs and theaters discussing all things aircraft carrier. USS Midway is perfect for families and anyone interested in seeing the vast inside of a decorated Naval ship.

• Opening Hours : Everyday 10.00am – 5.00pm
• Tickets : US$ 26 adult | Buy tickets here
• Midway Website

5. Embarcadero (Bayfront)

What is the Embarcadero?

Embarcadero is a popular promenade style walking area hugging San Diego bay.

You will find marinas, seal watching tours, USS Midway, seafood restaurants, international cruise ship terminal, Maritime Museum and the Star of India Museum.

The area is an L shape following the curve of San Diego bay, right behind the convention center close to Gaslamp.

Why visit the Embarcadero?

You will naturally find you are drawn towards the bay after dinner in Gaslamp, this is the perfect area to wander slowly during the evening.

Don’t miss the statue of unconditional surrender which is surrounded by Joshua Trees, Star of India sailing ship museum and you can even look inside submarines at the maritime museum.

A great way to see the Embarcadero from the bay is by taking this popular San Diego harbor cruise tour .

6. La Jolla

What is La Jolla?

La Jolla (pronounced La Hoya) is a very popular upmarket village-like neighborhood in Northwest San Diego, renowned for its fine dining and upscale village atmosphere.

San Diego’s crown jewel is surrounded on three sides by ocean but stretches 7 miles up the coast to encompass Torrey Pines (think best golf courses) and many educational institutes.

Why visit La Jolla?

Many people stay in La Jolla and day trip into San Diego, making their itinerary more of a beach vacation.

You can surf, scuba dive and kayak around headland coves, or watch seals and sea lions playing on rocks and beaches.

Photographers can explore the dramatic coastline shooting amazing piers and be part of a chilled community.

7. San Diego Beaches / Coastline

What is the San Diego Coastline?

As a run on from La Jolla which is on the coastline, San Diego is famed for its chilled beach culture and on a first time visit to the area, you can’t leave the coastline off your itinerary.

Each beach area / neighborhood offers its own atmosphere and audience.

Why visit the San Diego Coastline?

You can’t visit San Diego and not go beach hunting!

Jump in your car and spend an afternoon / early evening driving from one beach to the next from Black’s Beach near Torrey Pines, down to Sunset Cliffs.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular beaches and coastline attractions from North to South.

Torrey Pines & Black’s Beach

Torrey Pines is best known for hosting the Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA Tour each Winter. But just to the South of the famed gold club, you can find Torrey Pines Gliderport and Black’s Beach.

The Gliderport is a cool place to watch members running down a hill and leaping off the cliff edge!

Plus, views over Black’s Beach are exceptional from the Gliderport, in case you don’t have time to venture down to the beach.

Also in the area is Salk Institute for Biological Research and the University of California San Diego.

Ellen Browning Memorial Pier

Just a few minutes drive South you will find Scripps institution of Oceanography which hosts Birch Aquarium and a mesmerizing pier on its beachfront.

The Ellen Browning Scripps Memorial Pier is one of the most photogenic piers you are likely to see and the beach area here is extremely sparse compared to the more popular trendy beaches closer to San Diego.

Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is the artsy, hippy, bohemian, class SoCal beach in San Diego with an awesome pier, hundreds of surfers and a fantastically laid back vibe.

Many locals visit this beach because it is quieter than touristy Mission Beach and Pacific Beach (between La Jolla and Ocean Beach).

Newport Avenue close to the pier is filled with boutiques, antiques and restaurants.

Ocean Beach stretches from Newport Ave popular with surfers, up to Dog Beach where a ton of dogs are running riot!

Visit this beach to mix with the locals, surf, eat burgers, see art, check out the long pier and experience the different vibe to downtown San Diego.

Note : Mission Beach just to the North has a huge beach, Belmont amusement park and Sea World San Diego. If traveling with kids, Mission is a better fit than Ocean Beach.

Sunset Cliffs

Just over a mile to the South of Ocean Beach Pier, you will find dozens of cars driving in the same direction as daylight comes to a close.

They are all heading to Sunset Cliffs to watch a stunning Californian sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

This has to be on your San Diego itinerary, particularly if you’re not from the West and don’t get to see these sunsets often.

Sunset cliffs headland edges will begin to fill up and you will have a hard time finding a parking space but all you need to do is drive up a residential street and park – not obstructing drive ways!

You won’t be there long, just enough time to watch the sky illuminate deep orange before fading into darkness.

8. Coronado

What is Coronado?

Coronado is a peninsula in San Diego bay, accessible by a magnificent 2.1 mile long curving bridge crossing the bay not far from Embarcadero and Gaslamp Quarter.

Ronald Reagan was the first person to drive across the bridge when it opened in 1969.

Alternatively, you can take a short ferry directly from the Convention Center / Broadway Pier (next to USS Midway) to Coronado Ferry center, a shopping mall on the waterfront.

Coronado is a popular resort town famous for its grand Victorian Hotel del Coronado, surfing and of course its beach. Nearby Coronado has a resort town center with cafes and bars.

Why visit Coronado?

Coronado is easy to access from Gaslamp and Downtown, even without a car, which means almost all tourists can visit the peninsula.

But the main reason to visit is to get the best San Diego night views across the bay from Centennial Park (more later in best photography locations).

9. Old Town San Diego

What is Old Town San Diego?

Old Town was created as a settlement back in 1769 and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park is the birthplace of California dating back to the 1820’s.

You will find 19th century homes and businesses maintained to allow an insight into colonial living, plus dozens of restaurants, shopping, entertainment and hotel options.

Why visit Old Town San Diego?

Learn about the Mexican-American history of San Diego, visit over 100 speciality shops, wander around Fiesta de Reyes ( check events calendar ) and eat excellent Mexican food with a cocktail.

Another place to visit in Old Town is the Whaley House Museum , the most haunted house in America. Not one for us!

San Diego Pass

It is definitely worth considering buying a San Diego Pass if you’re the type of traveler who loves to see and do everything in a new place.

You can choose between two San Diego attractions pass options.

We always recommend (and use ourselves!) attractions passes when visiting cities with tons of fun things to do.

These passes allow you to visit more attractions at a lower overall cost. It really is that simple.

In San Diego you can choose between the following:

Go City San Diego Pass

San diego citypass.

The Go City San Diego Pass features over 50 fun attractions ranging from SeaWorld and Legoland to kayaking and whale watching. The San Diego Zoo is of course included, as are most of the places inside Balboa Park.

The Go City San Diego Pass comes with two very different options for visitors, which gives more flexibility to the user.

You can either buy an attractions based pass or a day based pass.

• The attractions pass allows you to choose a specific amount of attractions you would like to see from 2 – 7 attractions.
• The day based pass allows you to choose a specific amount of days you would like to have access to all 55+ San Diego attractions from 1 – 7 days.

We would recommend an attractions based Go City San Diego Pass to anyone who just wants to see a few very select attractions in San Diego and save money. This pass is better for solo travelers.

However, we would definitely recommend the day based Go City San Diego Pass to anyone who wants to spend a few days experiencing as much as possible in San Diego. This pass is better for couples and families.

>> Head over to the Go City San Diego Pass official website for more information on both pass types.

Alternatively, you can buy a San Diego CityPASS, which only offers a handful of pre-selected attractions at a set price point.

You can choose either SeaWorld or Legoland, or you can choose both of those two top attractions. After that you can select three more top attractions from a total of six.

CityPASS typically only give the most popular tourist attractions as options to keep it nice, easy and simple.

This pass is best suited to solo travelers, couples who just want to see the top sights and families who don’t want to be rushing around trying to tick off as many attractions as possible.

>> Head over to the San Diego CityPASS official site for more information.

Best Photography Locations In San Diego

One of the biggest surprises for us was how photogenic San Diego and its surrounding areas are. You will find a list of the best photography locations below so you can shoot the most awesome spots in the city.

Cabrillo Bridge – Located in Balboa Park close to Museum of Us, visit the bridge at night to shoot downtown San Diego from above I-5 to get the car lights blur with long exposures.

Sunset Cliffs – As mentioned above, this is the best place to photograph sunset.

Coronado Bridge – You’ll need to gain elevation for sunrise and the enormous bridge crossing San Diego bay is your perfect sunrise photography location.

Scripps Pier – Again, we’ve mentioned this above, the pier offers a phenomenal tunnel-like image that appears as though it could be a portal to another dimension!

Salk Institute of Biological Sciences – Ahh the pain we feel. There’s an awesome symmetrical photograph to be taken inside the research facilities grounds, however, it’s not particularly easy to get inside. When we tried to enter the grounds we were stopped by security. After explaining we just wanted to take a photograph, they wouldn’t allow us to go in. Sigh.

Coronado – For awesome night photography of the San Diego skyline and USS Midway, simply head over Coronado bridge to Centennial Park. You can set up in a quaint small park with unobstructed views across the bay. Plenty of room to go around.

3 Days in San Diego Itinerary

Now you know the best things San Diego has on offer for first time visitors, you can begin to construct a day by day itinerary for your visit.

But to give you a helping hand, here’s an example of how we would spend 3 days in San Diego most efficiently:

Day 1 – Balboa Park, Old Town and Little Italy

Balboa Park

• Begin your day at the famous San Diego Zoo. It opens at 9 so you can get a good early start.
• There are plenty of parking lots throughout Balboa Park. If the zoo parking lot is full, find another nearby, you’ll be walking around Balboa Park for hours anyway!
• The zoo is huge so you’ll need a few hours here, especially if traveling as a family.
• After the zoo, explore Balboa Park and its numerous museums, gardens and attractions.
• Here are the museums you can choose between: Air & Space Museum, Automotive Museum, Comic-Con Museum, Fleet Science Center, Natural History Museum, Model Railroad Museum, Museum of Photographic Arts, Mingei International Museum, Museum of Man / Us and Museum of Art.
• Phew! You are not short of options but isn’t it great to have such a diverse group of museums in one small space?
• Don’t forget to explore the Alcazar and Japanese friendship gardens and check out the Spanish Village Art Center. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, stay for the 2pm Organ concert.
• If there are any theater performances during your San Diego itinerary, book a show at the Old Globe.
• In the mid afternoon once you can’t take in anymore educational museums, drive just 6 miles to San Diego Old Town.
• Old Town will take far less time to explore than Balboa Park.
• Spend the late afternoon walking around Fiesta de Reyes, Plaza de las Armas and the old town colonial buildings.

Little Italy

• If you haven’t gotten ‘lost’ in an Old Town cocktail bar, drive to Little Italy (or back to your hotel and walk / Uber to Little Italy).
• This famous neighborhood comes alive in the evening, with a ton of restaurants and wine bars to choose between (see where to eat below for options).
• If you want to walk off dinner and wine afterwards, you’re just a block or two away from the North end of Embarcadero and the bay front.
• Or if you’re into photography, drive just a few miles back to Balboa Park where you can photograph cars entering / leaving San Diego on I-5 with the city skyline behind.

Day 2 – Embarcadero, USS Midway, Coronado & Gaslamp

Gaslamp District (Part 1)

• Begin with breakfast (breakfast republic is great) in Gaslamp, check out the shops and artisan market on Sundays.
• Stop at Ghirardelli’s for hot chocolate … and actual chocolate!
• Head South to the Convention Center but walk around / over it to the marina. When we visited San Diego, America’s got Talent were holding auditions inside and there were security guards posted all around the building.

Embarcadero

• From Embarcadero Marina South, walk Northwest along the bay front.
• Crowds will begin to grow as you approach USS Midway. Before you go to the museum, check out the statue of unconditional surrender. This sailor kissing a woman statue can be found in multiple locations around the world and is based on a photograph of this very scene from Times Square on V-J day in 1945.
• There are also Joshua Trees nearby if you haven’t had a chance to visit Joshua Tree National Park .
• Time to hit the decks on the USS Midway and spend the next few hours learning about its service, plus checking out jets!
• If you’re interested in military or maritime history, you can’t miss the Star of India and Maritime Museum just a little further up from Midway.
• This area does have a slight ‘theme park’ feel because it is touristy but its your first visit to San Diego and you should embrace it!
• With Car – Jump in your car and drive over the impressive and curving Coronado Bridge. Park up near the beach, take a walk along the coast, spot the famed Hotel del Coronado and stay here for sunset.
• After sunset, drive 1.5 miles up to Centennial Park to see the San Diego skyline at night across the bay.
• Without Car – If you don’t have a car or don’t want to move it from your hotel (we hear you!), simply take the ferry from Embarcadero South Marina to Coronado Ferry Center. You can take bus #904 from close to Ferry Center to the beach and hotel area or walk 1.5 miles (under 30 minutes walk).
• Take the bus or walk back to Ferry Center but before you get the ferry across to Embarcadero, be sure to check out the San Diego skyline from Centennial Park.

Gaslamp (part 2)

• Walk back around Convention Center to Gaslamp or drive back to your hotel, drop the car off and walk / Uber to Gaslamp.
• You’re in the liveliest part of town at night, choose the right place to eat (use our suggestions later) to avoid tourist traps.
• Restaurants here open out into the streets and you will discover a chilled but fun vibe with plenty of places to drink beer and cocktails.

Day 3 – San Diego Coast, La Jolla, Ocean Beach & Sunset Cliffs

Torrey Pines

• After 2 days in the city it’s time to get some fresh coastal air and some exercise!
• Drive up to Torrey Pines Gliderport and park right on the cliff edge. Try to get a photograph at Salk Institute (unless they have some top secret research going on … yes, we’re still bitter!) and watch as people run off the edge of the cliff to take off.
• You can walk down paths to the beach but they are fairly steep and will take up a good chunk of your morning. Views over the beach from the top are awesome.
• If you’re into golf, you can’t miss Torrey Pines right next to the Gliderport. See if you can have a walk around the clubhouse area. If you’re a San Diego resident a round will cost US$ 63, if not you’re looking at an eye watering US$ 202.
• Just a few miles South you can’t miss Scripps Pier, make sure you get right in the center of it and take a ton of photographs. It almost looks like an optical illusion.
• Plus the beach here is quiet, so now is the time for a brisk walk if you need the exercise.
• Grab lunch with sea views in La Jolla (see options later).
• Walk around La Jolla Cove, watching seals and sea lions playing or sunbathing! Try a kayak tour or even scuba diving from the cove beach area, you’ll see plenty of others doing just that.
• Check out La Jolla boutique stores and take a leisurely stroll around the area.
• This is a lovely part of San Diego so take your time.

Ocean Beach / Mission Bay

• If you have kids with you on your San Diego itinerary, your next stop could be Belmont Amusement Park or SeaWorld San Diego just South in Mission Bay.
• Otherwise, head to Ocean Beach to check out the pier, different culture and surfers.
• Walk up Newport Avenue, grab a beer in a seafront bar and choose a spot for dinner (see options later).
• After an early dinner, head down to Sunset Cliffs to watch a beautiful orange sun setting across the Pacific Ocean with hundreds of others lining the headland.
• If you’re visiting San Diego in Summer, sunset will be later than in Winter, so you might want to watch the sunset first and then go back for dinner afterwards. Check sunset times here .

2 Days in San Diego Itinerary

If you’re planning a 2 days in San Diego itinerary, you have plenty of options that don’t involve missing too much of the action.

Our 3 day example above is a slow relaxing chilled pace, you could simply quicken the pace.

Here’s how you can merge some of the major neighborhoods into 2 days:

• Balboa Park – Begin your first day here but spend less time at the zoo / go into fewer museums and generally be more selective about which attractions you visit.
• Little Italy – Instead of dinner, stop in Little Italy for brunch / lunch (see options below).
• Embarcadero – Walk along the bay front, quick visit to USS Midway, take the ferry / drive to Coronado.
• Coronado – Walk along the beach or Ferry Center shopping mall area, be sure to check out San Diego skyline.
• Gaslamp – Ferry back / drive back to your hotel, spend the evening in Gaslamp with dinner and drinks.
• Old Town – Spend the morning walking around Old Town and Fiesta de Reyes.
• Torrey Pines – Drive up to the Gliderport and work your way down past Scripps Pier to La Jolla.
• La Jolla – Spend the early afternoon walking around the cove and headland, grab lunch (see options below).
• Ocean Beach – Continue down through Mission Bay to OB, see the pier, Newport Ave and surfers.
• Sunset Cliffs – Watch the sunset at the aptly named best place in San Diego.
• Gaslamp/Old Town/ Little Italy – Choose whichever is more convenient for dinner.

One Day San Diego Itinerary

Ok, we’ll admit one day in San Diego is not going to allow you to plan the perfect itinerary. You’re going to have to compromise and leave a couple areas out.

Here are some of the most efficient ways to hit some of San Diego’s highlights in one day:

• 1 – Downtown Day : Spend the entire day walking around Gaslamp, Downtown, Little Italy and Embarcadero (in no particular order).
• 2 – Coastal Day : Spend the morning at old town and along the coast / La Jolla, drop the car off at your hotel and spend the evening in Gaslamp / Little Italy.
• 3 – Museum Day : Spend the whole day at Balboa Park ending at Little Italy or Gaslamp.
• 4 – Maritime Day : USS Midway, ferry to Coronado, Maritime Museum, eat along Embarcadero.

Where To Eat In San Diego

Did you know San Diego is known as the craft beer capital of America?

If you’re a fan of beer (who isn’t?!) and fantastic food including the best tacos in the country, you’re in for a real treat.

Gaslamp isn’t the only neighborhood to look at for food options. In fact, Little Italy, La Jolla, Ocean Beach and Old Town are less touristy and in some cases more authentic.

Here are some of our top recommendations for you to consider:

• The Lion’s Share – Less common meat selection and fantastic cocktail list | Menu
• Taka – Popular Sushi Japanese restaurant using fresh fish flown in from Japan | Menu
• Lola 55 – Contender for the best Tacos in San Diego (up for debate!) | Menu
• Meze – Awesome Greek restaurant with relaxing vibe and fantastic food | Menu
• Duke’s La Jolla – Hawaiian food with stunning sea views | Menu
• Catania – Excellent Italian food with rooftop views | Menu
• Bistro Du Marche  – French bistro gastronomy fusion | Menu
• Nine-Ten – Award winning fine dining (looks amazing) | Menu
• Hodad’s OB – Extremely popular burger joint | Menu
• Wonderland Ocean Pub – Beach side beer grub and sports | Menu
• Bo-Beau’s – French comfort food bistro (lovely inside) | Menu
• OB Noodle House – One of San Diego’s best Asian fusion | Menu
• The Crack Shack – Amazing Southern Fried Chicken and Eggs | Menu
• Kettner Exchange – Popular brunch, lounge and dinner American food | Menu
• Juniper & Ivy – Award winning fine dining not for those on a budget | Menu
• Italian Food – Choose between Bencotto | Civico 1845 | Nonna
• Tahona Bar – Classy Tacos and Cocktails | Menu
• Pizza Bella – Highly rated pizza restaurant | Menu
• Harney Sushi – Trendy Sushi restaurant with happy hour | Menu

Where To Stay In San Diego

With over 30 million tourists visiting each year, there is no shortage of hotel rooms in San Diego.

We have narrowed down hundreds of hotel options into just 20 top picks in our helpful guide to the best hotels in San Diego , which breaks down the popular neighborhoods and lists only the top rated hotels for every budget.

Always shop around and dig for the best prices, but if you’re in a hurry, here are just some of the top rated hotels by previous guests visiting San Diego:

• Staypineapple (Gaslamp)
• Hotel Pendry (Gaslamp)
• Tower 23 (Pacific Beach)  
• Pantai Inn (La Jolla)

For first time visitors planning a San Diego itinerary, consider which district you would prefer to set up base. 

We suggest you look at Gaslamp, La Jolla, Pacific Beach or Downtown San Diego as the best places to search for hotels. Families might also want to consider Coronado and resorts around SeaWorld.

• Gaslamp – In the heart of San Diego, easy access to bars, restaurants & walks along the bay .
• La Jolla – Perfect for those who prefer a relaxing base next to the beach & drive into town.
• Downtown – Bulk of hotels with cheaper options between Gaslamp and Little Italy districts.

Choose the district first and the perfect hotel will follow!

Read : Our 15 travel savvy ways to save money when booking hotels .

San Diego Itinerary Map

Click into this interactive map, zoom in / out, scroll around and click on any icon to see details of everything we mention in the itinerary.

Spending just a few minutes working out where things are really helps when you arrive.

We hope this guide helped with planning your San Diego itinerary!

Please let us know if you have any questions or need any help with your planning .

You Stay Classy, Planet Earth ,

Mark and Kristen

Was This Post Helpful? Pin It For Your Visit to San Diego!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

6 thoughts on “San Diego Itinerary: 9 Unmissable Things To Do In 3 Perfect Days”

Amazing. So easy to follow!! Can’t wait to use all this info in my trip. Thank you.

Hi Lisa, you’re very welcome and we hope you have a wonderful trip to San Diego!

You guys have amazing content!!!! this helped me a lot 🙂

Thank you Anu! We’re glad it helped and have a great trip to sunny San Diego!

San Diego seems like an amazing place to visit, with many attractions on your doorstep. I even think I could live there with the nice climate unlimited golf and fishing. Great itenary for a short visit, I would love to be in a position to use it.

Thanks Graham! Yes San Diego is such a cool place to visit, we really enjoyed our 3 days there and will definitely go back again soon. The golf would be great with perfect weather and ocean views. Hopefully you can visit San Diego one day!

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• 11 Reasons Why You Should...

11 Reasons Why You Should Visit San Diego

San Diego, California’s second largest city, is accessible via plane, train, and automobile. With the Pacific Ocean to the West and Mexico to the South, it’s a diverse mixture of culture and cuisine, with gorgeous weather year-round. Here are 11 reasons to check out San Diego on your next vacation.

The weather.

San Diego’s weather is lovely all year long . In winter months, lows average in the high 40s and low 50s, with highs in the mid-60s. Summers are warm, but not crushingly hot like other, more inland parts of California. Lows are in the mid- to high 60s, and highs are in the mid-70s. There are few rainy days, with an average of 263 sunny or only partly-cloudy days each year. Snow is exceedingly rare, and hasn’t happened since 1967 .

The Beaches

The History

San Diego is considered the birthplace of California, as Old Town San Diego is where the first Spanish settlement was established in 1769 (though Native Americans had already been living here long before that date). Later, Father Junipero Serra built the first of 21 Californian missions in San Diego. Many historic buildings have been preserved in Old Town San Diego, and you can still tour missions in the area today. Another key piece of history can be found in Balboa Park, where several buildings were erected for the Panama California Exposition in 1915.

San Diego’s culinary scene has really been picking up in the last couple years, with many restaurants taking advantage of the city’s fresh produce and unpretentious nature. Enjoy authentic cuisine from small, independently owned eateries, or innovative dishes from a diverse host of talented chefs at restaurants including Jsix, Galaxy Taco, KINDRED, and Juniper & Ivy. Or, dig into Cali-Baja , San Diego’s regional cuisine that blends Californian and Mexican Baja Med styles.

The Nightlife

San Diego has a bustling nightlife scene, particularly in the Gaslamp Quarter Pacific Beach and Hillcrest. Whether you’re hoping to go dancing, sing karaoke, or take in a show, you’ll find something that fits your agenda. Find comedy clubs, drag shows, honky tonks, live music, DJs and more, every night of the week.

Animal Adventures

Not only can guests stop by the San Diego Zoo, but there’s also the San Diego Zoo Safari Park and SeaWorld San Diego. Each offers educational opportunities and the chance to see majestic animals with your own eyes. For a more-hands on experience visit Sky Falconry, where you can learn to interact with trained hawks, vultures, and falcons.

Stunning coastal views can be found in several public parks and beaches, including Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, Black’s Beach and Sunset Cliffs. If you like your views without the hikes, try George’s at the Cove in La Jolla, where a meal or cocktail on the Ocean Terrace comes with a gorgeous view of the Pacific Ocean.

San Diego may get a lot of attention for surf and sand, but their art scene is nothing to dismiss. Museums include the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photogenic Arts, Mingei International Museum, the Timken Museum and the San Diego Art Institute. Yet that doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface, as independent galleries abound, especially in neighborhoods like North Park and Barrio Logan. Barrio Logan is also home to the largest collection of Chicano art murals around in Chicano Park.

The Neighborhoods

San Diego neighborhoods are unique, offering a variety of experiences in one city. Visit Old Town for some California history or the Gaslamp Quarter for a thriving nightlife scene. Hillcrest is LGBTQ-friendly and fun, with plenty of cool shops and boutiques to peruse. Try Little Italy for fantastic Italian cuisine, or Barrio Logan for authentic Mexican fare. When you want to hit the beach, try Pacific Beach for lots of bars and restaurants, or La Jolla if you want a quieter, but no less scenic, experience.

Proximity to Mexico

There are few American cities where you can just walk across the border into another country, but San Diego is one of them. Though you will need to plan ahead and allow time to get back and forth across the border, you can easily break up a trip to San Diego with a night in Tijuana.

The Adult Beverages

When it comes to drinks, San Diego is a prime city for beer lovers, with over 125 breweries in the county. Yet there are also hotspots that appeal to those who prefer to imbibe sans hops. For cocktails, try You & Yours Distilling, speakeasy Noble Experiment or rooftop bar Fairweather. Whiskey lovers can veer towards Aero Club, a classic dive in operation since the mid-century, featuring hundreds of whiskeys to try.

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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best vacation villas to rent in california.

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Not-to-miss activities in san luis obispo county.

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A Solo Traveler's Guide to California

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See & Do

Off-the-grid travel destinations for your new year digital detox .

The Best Hotels to Book in Santa Ana, California

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Ultimate Travel Guide to San Diego: A Local’s Guide on What to Do, Where to Stay + More

By: Author Robyn Robledo

Posted on Last updated: March 10, 2024

San Diego is as amazing as it sounds. With seventy-degree weather year-round on average and very little rain, a visit to San Diego should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Southern California boasts numerous fantastic beach towns in greater San Diego. This guide helps tailor your visit to fit your travel style perfectly.

This blog covers San Diego neighborhoods, featuring top attractions, dining spots, and accommodation details. For a concise guide on favorite beaches, hikes, and climbs, visit our ‘Outdoor Adventure Guide to San Diego.

Save this for later, pin it!

What’s So Great About San Diego?

I’ve tried to escape San Diego.

I’ve complained about the traffic, the cost of living, and the rat race, but after four years of trying to escape this city for something smaller and with more sharp jagged mountains, I’ve learned to understand why this is America’s Finest City.

I was born and raised in San Diego.  Graduated from SDSU, ran a business in Coronado for 20 years, and delivered all 5 of my babies here. The city has changed a lot over those 43 years, but in many ways, it’s stayed true to its roots.  

I realized I’ve written detailed blogs about various places, but I haven’t tapped into my extensive knowledge about San Diego. With four decades of personal experience, I aim to help you uncover why so many are drawn to America’s Finest City.

San Diego: Surf culture meets Hispanic influence at the southwestern US border. Beyond waves and burritos, discover its diverse allure.

San Diego’s food scene boasts Kombucha and Kava bars, dog-friendly breweries, and cafes selling flowers and succulents, catering to diverse tastes.

Most importantly, don’t just think that all our beaches are the same.

Want to find some sand dollars? Head to Silver Strand at low tide. Want a sandy shore for young kids to play? Head to La Jolla shores. Want to surf a chillwave? Head to Tourmaline. Want to watch the best sunsets? Head to the pier at OB.

When to Visit San Diego

Any time of year is fantastic, but January stands out. Locals might find it chilly with temperatures in the mid-sixties on the coast and rarely any rain.

One of my other favorite times to be in San Diego is November and December, but it does get crowded during the holidays.

San Diego’s ocean stoke: Spring winds challenge surf, aim for sunrise; summer’s mellow waves are perfect for learning.

Shuffle feet in shallow waters at San Diego beaches to avoid stingrays. Seek lifeguard help if stung for hot water treatment.

Getting Around San Diego

San Diego traffic is notorious; avoid beach-to-city drives during peak hours by considering alternate transportation like the train.

More than likely you’re going to want to rent a car when you visit San Diego.

Public transportation via the bus system and trolley isn’t recommended for regular use, except for occasional trips like reaching a Padre Game. Sticking to beach towns such as Pacific or Mission Beach allows for car-free exploration, relying on Uber/Lyft and trendy electric scooters prevalent in these areas.

Use the search box below to find cheap car rentals in San Diego:

San Diego Go Card

In San Diego, numerous free activities like beaches, parks, and hikes abound, but for paid attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Sea World, and others, consider the San Diego GO Card for access to nearly 50 sites.

I’ve highlighted many of the GO Card attractions in colored boxes like this one.

San Diego’s Central Neighborhoods

Downtown: gaslamp district + little italy.

Stay in Downtown San Diego for easy access to restaurants, bars, a vibrant farmers market, Petco Park, Seaport Village, and the USS Midway aircraft museum. Don’t miss the ferry to Coronado Island!

If you are looking for some exercise, walk or run along Harbor Drive .

You can even ride the train from Downtown up the coast to Oceanside and not have to deal with San Diego traffic.

If you love adrenaline like I do, then my suggestion would be to get on the water. There are many cool ways to do that here but I think the one that appeals to me most personally is the San Diego Speed Boat Adventures . These 13 foot, 2 passenger boats are super safe and easy to drive, but what I like most is that it’s a self guided tour, which means I can go as fast or slow as I want. The San Diego Speed Boat Adventures is part of the San Diego GO Card.

If you do get out on the water, head out towards the tip of Point Loma. Besides getting views of all the tourist attractions I’ve just mentioned- Navy Ships, Midway, Coronado Bridge, Star of India, and the Seaport Village, there’s a good chance of seeing seal lions and dolphins on your way out and I think the views of Cabrillo National Park from the water are epic. You might even see some whales or surfers in the water out at the point.

A more mellow way to enjoy the San Diego Harbor is on a Hornblower Cruise, which is also part of the San Diego GO Card .

There are so many choices for food in the Gaslamp District and Little Italy. If you are uber health-conscious or vegan, you’ll want to check out Cafe Gratitude. It can be a bit pricey but they have delicious and unique vegan meals.

Now, if you don’t have dietary restrictions and you want a delicious, affordable meal, head to Filippis in Little Italy (there are 13 other locations spread out in San Diego too).

For coffee, check out James Coffee Co . This dog-friendly, totally hipster coffee shop has great coffee and a chill vibe.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by James Coffee Co. (@jamescoffeeco) on Oct 8, 2019 at 8:12am PDT

Ironically, I think the Princess Pub (yep, it’s an English Pub) has the absolute best fish tacos so if you’re in the mood for that you might want to check it out however, the other food is pretty average.

Little Italy is also famous for its numerous wine restaurants and bars .

This San Diego neighborhood is the place to go for Mexican heritage, historical sites, colorful shops, and eclectic restaurants. Two fun, popular (and crowded) events here each year are Cinco de Mayo and the Day of the Dead festival.

My favorite part of Old Town is the Fiesta del Reyes section of Old Town. It’s home to one of our favorite chocolate shops, Nibble , which not only sells the best chocolate but also has amazing coffee drinks.

You can also sign up here for a tequila, Tacos, and Culinary Tour of Old Town.

You have to make time for Point Loma’s Sunset Cliffs , an obviously great spot to watch the sunset, but I think equally wonderful at sunrise. One of my favorite things to do in Point Loma is go for a run along Sunset Cliffs.

I love surfing here when the swell is big. Tide plays a big factor though for both surfing and exploration so make sure you are aware of if the tide is coming up or down. Note though that this is not a good place for kids to play since the tide can rise quite fast.

A better option for tide pooling would be Cabrillo National Monument or if you don’t want to pay the entrance fee there, La Jolla Cove also has great tide pooling. Check here for the tide schedule.

Point Loma has an abundance of options at Liberty Station .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Liberty Station (@libertystation) on Dec 18, 2019 at 5:40pm PST

Besides the Liberty Public Market , which is a huge European Market like Torvehallerne in Copenhagen , there’s the popular brewery, Stone Brewing Co , 50’s themed Corvette Diner , Trader Joe’s , and great cafes.

North + South Park

This is where you’ll want to head to if you want to see the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. It’s also a great place to check out San Diego’s hipster restaurants, cafes, and breweries.

If you love animals, you can’t miss the San Diego Zoo . Growing up and getting to go here so often might have made me a little jaded about how amazing our zoo is. In the summer, the nighttime attractions are extra fun for kids and grown-ups alike.

If you can visit The Zoo during the school year on a non-holiday, you will love getting up close encounters with the animals. Remember they are more active in the morning and evening when the temperature is cooler so try to plan your trip accordingly.

The San Diego Zoo is big and will require a full day to take it in. You might want to consider paying for the bus tour if you don’t feel up for a day of intense hiking because there are a lot of hills here.

If you choose to visit the San Diego Zoo, it might be worth getting the San Diego GO Card.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by balboapark (@balboapark) on Aug 20, 2019 at 3:34pm PDT

Balboa Park is very pretty and a great spot for photos and enjoying a picnic. The museums are great but can be crowded on the weekends and in peak summer so if this is high on your priority list, get here right when it opens. Parking can also be challenging during those peak times.

The museums can be quite expensive when paid for individually but are part of the San Diego GO Card .

You have so many great food choices in North Park off University Avenue and El Cajon Blvd.

My favorite is Tiger! Tiger! for craft beer and pork sandwiches, although there are a lot of other great specialties on their menu. For thin-crust pizza and beer go to URBN North Park .

There’s also City Tacos for Mexican food, Poki One N Half , Street Side Thai Kitchen , and the famous Chicken Pie Shop .

For breakfast, check out the Mission North Park or Breakfast Republic .

For coffee, my absolute favorite is Dark Horse Coffee Roasters . If you love chocolate, make sure to try their mocha. And if succulents and flowers are your thing, you have to check out Communal Coffee . There’s Figaro Dessert Cafe nearby, which I haven’t tried but looks delicious.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by C O M M U N A L C O F F E E (@communalcoffee) on Nov 26, 2019 at 6:00am PST

When it comes to breweries I love Mike Hess , Modern Times , and Thorn St Brewing . You’ll have to try them all and decide which your favorite is.

In South Park, all the locals I talk to agree that hands down the best place to eat is Buona Forchetta . It’s the place to go for upscale Italian food and their wine list is incredible!

I’m usually drawn to breweries so my recommendation is Station Tavern if you’re craving beer and burgers or Hamilton’s Tavern for beer and brats.

Last, for live music and nightlife, check out a show at The Observatory .  See upcoming events here.

Where to Stay near Downtown + Central San Diego

If you’re looking to be as close as possible to the nightlife and restaurants, you’ll want to stay as close to the Gaslamp District as possible.

• For budget options, try HI Downtown Hostel Good Nite Inn , or ITH Adventure Hostel
• For mid-range try the Pacific Inn and the Hampton Inn Downtown
• For luxury accommodation stay at Sonder – The William Penn or Staypineapple in Gaslamp.

If you are traveling with kids, you’ll probably prefer staying near one of the Beach Neighborhoods listed below instead.

San Diego’s Central Beach Neighborhoods

All three of these beach neighborhoods–Ocean Beach, Mission Beach, and Pacific Beach–are my recommended places to stay on your first visit to San Diego .  From all three of these neighborhoods, you can walk, bike, or rent a scooter to get around.

It’s really not that important to see all three so I suggest you pick one and immerse yourself in its unique beauty.  There are public restrooms at all of these beaches, plenty of food options, and are still close to all the attractions listed in the above section.

Pacific Beach

Pacific Beach is my fav . If you want an authentic San Diego surf town vibe, this is where it’s at. I mean, you can go up to La Jolla and Encinitas (and I do love Cardiff), but they are missing that down-to-earth SoCal vibe that you’ll get here.

PB may be known as the party town of San Diego but for the majority of the day, it isn’t true. I spend most days in PB when I’m in San Diego and don’t let the few PB crazies make you nervous. They’re harmless and if you want to avoid them, stay away from Starbucks by Grand Ave, which shouldn’t be a problem since PB has so many great coffee shops.

When I just want the best quality coffee, I go to Birdrock Coffee on Garnet (although there are other locations). If you want to sit down for coffee and some food (best scones here) then go to Brick and Bell on Cass St.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bird Rock Coffee Roasters (@birdrockcoffeeroasters) on Jan 14, 2020 at 8:05am PST

Millennials might like Better Buzz which has 3 different locations within Pacific Beach. The vibe is cool but I won’t go there because it’s overly trendy, and corporate (we prefer to support local small business), and I think the coffee is mediocre. But if you like spending $10 for good avocado toast, go for it.

Hit up the Trader Joe’s in PB right when you arrive; grab avocados, sun-dried tomatoes, and sourdough for a week’s worth of savings!

I love surfing by Crystal Pie r or in front of Law Street and when the waves get too heavy, I go a bit further north to a great beginner-friendly break, Tourmaline .

Even if you don’t surf you’ll love walking the stretch of beach or boardwalk from Tourmaline to the pier. If you keep walking south you’ll end up in Mission Beach and can easily rent a scooter or Uber to bring you back.

There are so many great places to eat in PB that I can’t narrow it down to the top few, but I will say, the better restaurants are not on the beach. For the best meals, you need to check out restaurants a few blocks away from Mission Blvd.

Mission Beach

Between PB and OB is Mission Beach, which is lined with restaurants, surf shops, bike rentals, and bars. I rarely go here so I can’t fully vouch for it. Mission Beach combines the classically touristy California boardwalk with a beachfront amusement park, Belmont Park.

Belmont Park is also part of the Go Card and gives you unlimited rides on the rollercoaster, access to laser tag, sky ropes, mini-golf, and two turns on the zip line.

If you surf, check out the south jetty, but all along the beach is good for newbies on a fuller tide (stick to a 3-foot tide or bigger). There’s also the wave pool here by Belmont Park.

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is adjacent to Mission Beach and Pacific Beach and also where you’ll find SeaWorld. This is where I live half the year and growing up this was my favorite place in San Diego to go.

Weekends get crowded but during the week the vibe is super chill.

Enjoy morning runs, picnics, and kids’ play at campgrounds. Rent bikes for Bay and Fiesta Island tours. End with bonfires, Sea World fireworks at Mission Bay, Fiesta Island, or Ski Beach (my fave).

Note that the gate to Fiesta Island is locked each night at 10 pm. Many vans and RVs stay parked overnight even though it’s technically not allowed but occasionally police roll through and ticket everyone. It’s up to you if you want to roll the dice.

If you want a nice bike ride or long run, park at De Anza Cove on Mission Bay and follow the sidewalks all along Mission Bay. You can even get to OB, MB, and PB on the bike routes.

Sea World, also on the Go Card , is in Mission Bay and if you visit in the summer, you may want to look into signing your kids up for a week-long Sea World camp while you and your spouse get some adult time to explore America’s Finest City.

Ocean Beach

While you will see a lot of people living out of their cars here and there is no shortage of dreadlocks and guitars strumming, OB is the safe, fun, and fairly affordable area to stay in. 

One of my favorite things to do in OB is watch the sunset from Wonderland Bar. If you are traveling with a dog, Dog Beach in OB is where it’s at.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Wonderland Ocean Pub (@wonderlandoceanbeach) on Dec 30, 2019 at 3:00pm PST

I love surfing here! Here are some tips if you come here to shred:

• The jetty, on the north side by Dog Beach, is a fast right and you must respect the locals.
• If you’re a newbie, stick to the waves directly in front of dog beach.
• Intermediate surfers will like Avalanche, the jetty in the center of the beach, or surfing the Pier.

Where to Stay near Central San Diego Beaches

If you are looking for a centrally located and affordable hotel to stay at in San Diego, check out these:

• Best budget: California Dreams Hostel + ITH Beach Bungalow Surf Hostel
• Best mid range (beachfront): Pacific Terrace Hotel and Surfer Beach Hotel in PB + Ocean Villa Inn in Ocean Beach + Campland On the Bay campground on Mission Bay
• Best luxury: Tower 23 Hotel at the PB pier + Blue Sea Beach Hotel on the Mission Beach Boardwalk

San Diego’s North County Beach Neighborhoods

If you want less grunge and a more upscale beach scene, then La Jolla, Del Mar, or Encinitas are where you want to be.

If you like shopping, fancier restaurants, and gorgeous views, stay in La Jolla. There are two parts to La Jolla and they aren’t really easy to walk from one to the other. 

La Jolla Cove is where the seals are on the beach and is within walking distance of all the great restaurants and shopping. 

La Jolla Shores: Perfect for families and beginner surfers. Enjoy ample amenities, and gentle waves, but arrive early for parking.

Within walking distance, there are great places to eat and do a little shopping.  You’ll also find places to rent surfboards and sign up for surf lessons or kayaking tours.

If you have the GoCard , you can rent a surfboard for free at Bike and Kayak in La Jolla.

Another nice spot to check out is Windansea .  It’s not the best beach for kids, but it’s a gorgeous beach to chill at and to take pictures at sunset.  We love surfing here but it is not a beginner’s wave.

Between La Jolla and Del Mar is Torrey Pines . This is a beautiful place to hike and bike riding up Torrey Pines Road is a popular thing to do in San Diego. The views from Torrey Pine’s Gliderport are amazing and if you feel adventurous, you can do some hang gliding over the coast from here.

Del Mar is a great place to spend a few hours shopping and eating.  There are also really good surf breaks all along the Del Mar coast but they are not great for beginners.

If you want a family-friendly beach, it’s probably easier to pay to park at Seaside State Beach which is just north of Del Mar. It’s $10 for the day but then you don’t have to worry about fighting parking and there are bathrooms. The only bad thing is there aren’t a lot of food options within easy walking distance.

Solana Beach, Cardiff + Encinitas

Cardiff (or Encinitas) is runner-up for my favorite place in San Diego. You have everything here from surf shops and yoga studios to some of San Diego’s best gastropubs, açaí bowls, and coffee shops.

Solana Beach’s Cedros Design District boasts unique shops, Belly Up Tavern, and local favorites like Lofty Coffee. Highway 101 offers surf shops and diverse dining options, including Pizza Port.

Carlsbad + Oceanside

For a first trip focusing on San Diego highlights, consider staying in Encinitas or further south to avoid heavy traffic. Carlsbad and Oceanside offer great alternatives if skipping downtown, PB, the Zoo, or Balboa Park.

If you have kids under 10 years old, Legoland could be what brings you to Carlsbad. It’s also on the Go Card .

Where to Stay near North San Diego Beaches

• Best budget: Coronado Inn (or camp on the Silver Strand) + Sand Castle Inn
• Best midrange and most scenic: The Loews Coronado Bay Resort + Hotel Marisol Coronado
• Best luxury: Pier South Resort + Glorietta Bay Inn

San Diego’s South County Beach Neighborhoods

Coronado’s appeal for first-time San Diego visitors varies: skip for adventure, embrace beach luxury, dining, and boutique shopping.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The San Diego Union-Tribune (@sandiegouniontribune) on Jan 2, 2020 at 1:37pm PST

The Hotel Del Coronado is beautiful and I think running the beach in front of the hotel at low tide is one of my favorite parts of Coronado.

There’s a narrated trolley tour that you can take and if you are a history buff, you’ll probably love this.

Consider heading south to Silver Strand State Beach for a great spot to explore with kids or enjoy nature. At low tide, it’s perfect for walking or running, and I’ve found countless sand dollars along this stretch during my two years here.

For top-notch beer and burgers, head to Leroy’s Kitchen and Lounge. Enjoy a classic dinner breakfast at Clayton’s Coffee Shop. For protein-packed meals, try Lil’ Piggy’s Bar-B-Q. Satisfy your sweet tooth with French pastries from Tartine’s French Bakery.

Imperial Beach

Discover Imperial Beach’s culinary scene with must-visit spots: Coronado Brewing Company for great beer and SEA 180 for stunning ocean views and delicious food.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SEA180° Coastal Tavern (@sea180coastaltavern) on Aug 22, 2019 at 3:49pm PDT

There’s also Big Kahuna’s for cheap Hawaiian cuisine, Philippi’s Italian restaurant, Aroma Thai, and The Brigantine for seafood.

I love IB but I would still recommend the Central San Diego Beaches of Imperial Beach.  The biggest reason that I’d choose further north as opposed to Imperial Beach is if you plan on getting in the ocean due to how polluted the water is.

I know Wildcoast is working hard to fix this but I think it’s important to know that the pollution from the Tijuana River does cause beach closures in South Bay often , especially after any rainfall. If you aren’t planning on going in th water, then you’re good. 

Where to Stay near South San Diego Beaches

For an authentic Imperial Beach stay, Pier South Resort offers beachfront rooms, stunning sunset views, a pool, spa, and exceptional dining at Sea 180. Hotel Del Coronado, iconic but pricey, offers a taste of 50’s luxury if desired.

Other recommendations in Coronado and IB include:

North County Inland

North County Inland consists of the neighborhoods of Poway, Escondido, Ramona, and Julian. Some of the residential areas near here include Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, and Rancho Santa Fe. 

There are three main draws to this area.

My favorite is to hike Iron Mountain , but it can get crowded on the weekends so keep this in mind. My favorite way to hike this is starting in the dark about 1 hour before sunrise and then watching the sunrise from the top.

Another popular hike is to Potato Chip Rock . Again, it can be super crowded but if you’re dying to hike it’s a good option.

The third is to visit the Wild Animal Park, which is also part of the San Diego GO Card .

There are a few other cool things to do out here that are in our Hiking Adventures Near San Diego blog.

South Bay Inland

Explore Victor’s former South Bay neighborhood – Imperial Beach, Chula Vista, and Eastlake. Exercise caution, avoiding night walks and road rage for safety.

With that being said, I wouldn’t recommend any tourist stay in South Bay. 

Gentrification revitalized many areas, like Chula Vista with its craft breweries. However, staying there means being distant from my recommended activities. Eastlake offers pleasant Airbnb options amidst its suburban landscape. Yet, it’s packed with strip malls and fast-food joints, leading to traffic jams.

On the other hand, I would recommend Imperial Beach , especially staying at Sea 180.

Two things I do love in the South Bay though are Aquatica, the water park, and the concert venue currently called North Island Credit Union (it seems to change ownership every year).

This is a fun concert venue that we often take our kids to. I like that the seats in the grass are affordable and that even from here you can see the stage pretty well. Plus, the sunsets right before the concerts get going are quite amazing. If you want to save a lot of money, get there early to tailgate since the food and alcohol inside is pricey. Check here for a list of upcoming concerts.

Aquatica (formerly known as Knott’s Soak City) is also on the GO Card.

East County Inland

I purchased a 2003 Ford F350 Diesel truck and found my place in East County. While summers sizzle into the 90s or low 100s from July to October, the rest of the year is delightful. La Mesa, El Cajon, Santee, and Lakeside make East County an excellent base for exploration. Opt for La Mesa’s central location or consider the unique floating cabins at Santee Lakes Campground for camping. BNS Brewery and Distillery, a haven for country music lovers, offers live music, drinks, and outdoor games, and often hosts food trucks, making it a perfect spot for families.

Camp Smart: If camping at Santee Lakes, book in advance and consider the floating cabins for a unique experience.

One of the hidden gems in East County is Mission Trails . It has some pleasant hikes and a few challenging ones like Cowles Mountain, which can be insanely crowded (kinda a theme for hiking in San Diego). I think the best thing to do at Mission Trails is rock climb . If you don’t have gear or know how to climb, ask my friend Caleb at Stoneman Climbing about guiding you here for the day.

If you go further east, past East County, you’ll find the neighborhoods of Alpine, Pine Valley, Ramona, and Julian.  These areas offer some great hikes, mountain biking, camping, and cool historic main streets with a fun hick vibe. 

If you go a little further east than this, you’ll go over the mountains and drop into the desert of Ocotillo.  If you visit from November through April, I’d highly recommend spending a night or two out here.  Check out this blog for our favorite hikes and camping in Ocotillo and Ramona .

What About Tijuana

I used to go to TJ with Victor to party before we could drink legally in the States. Victor’s family loves the amazing and cheap food and drinks there! Here’s a list of some of the places our friend who lives in Tijuana recommends:

More Fun Things To Do In San Diego

Other fun things to do In San Diego include:

• Take a San Diego highlights tour of historical landmarks
• Or sign up for a walking tour
• Sign up for a scavenger hunt (we did this once in downtown and had a blast)
• Tour San Diego by sea on the Seal Tour
• If you’re here on the one day it rains out of the year, do an Escape Room

>>>Click here to sign up for any of these fun tours and events<<<

San Diego Summary

San Diego’s near-perfect year-round weather makes it a perfect vacation destination. Get a San Diego Go Card and check out all the rad tourist spots or go for the budget vacay and enjoy BBQs, bonfires, and walks on the bay and beach. Either way, San Diego will be one trip you’ll never forget!

Follow the Adventure

After living in the San Diego rat race for so long, we said forget this and bought a 30-foot motorhome to live out of.

Half the year we live in San Diego while the other half we are out exploring the world. Follow along on our adventures on Instagram and message us if you’re in the SD area and want to meet up!

Related Blogs:

• 10 Fun Itineraries West Coast Road Trips
• Guide to Surfing the California Coast
• Weekend Hiking Trip from San Diego
• Outdoor Adventure Guide to San Diego
• Best Coffee Shops In San Diego

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

With so many things to do (and almost guaranteed great weather to do it in!), planning the perfect 2, 3 or 4 days in San Diego itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming.

San Diego is one of the most wonderful cities in the entirety of the United States. With countless things to do, perennially beautiful weather, and a laid-back lifestyle that is instantly infectious, San Diego is one of the most the best places to visit in California .

This itinerary will ensure that you get the most out of your trip to this dynamic coastal city whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation — the only problem is that it’s sure to make you long to return!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in San Diego?

If you’re in the beginning stages of planning your trip to San Diego, you’re likely wondering how many days you should spend in this Southern California city. San Diego is kind of the ultimate tourist destination, especially when compared to Los Angeles , with a seemingly endless array of things to do, so really no matter how long you’re able to spend here, you can ensure that you will always be occupied.

However, there is such a problem as spending too little time in San Diego! The city is massive and full of great activities and if you try to cram too much into too short a time period, you’re likely to burn out and exhaust yourself — not a recipe for a good holiday!

If you only have, say, 2 days in San Diego, then make sure to pace yourself and prioritise what you’d like to see. The 2-day itinerary in this article covers some of the highlights of central San Diego but omits any beach time, so if that’s what has drawn you to the city, then make sure to prioritise what you’d like to do.

Spending 3 days in San Diego or more is ideal as it will allow you to cover a lot of ground, see some sites, but also enjoy some time on the beach — and San Diego has a number of amazing beaches that you don’t want to miss!

If you have time for a 4-day itinerary, then you’re really in luck. This is the ideal amount of time to spend in the city as it allows you to really explore but also gives you a bit of time to relax if that’s what you’re after.

You honestly can’t go wrong if you want to spend more than 4 days because there is just so much to do in the city and the surrounding area. If you have more than four days, you can venture further afield, spend more time on the beach, or even take the time to visit cool places like the San Diego Zoo Safari Park!

Getting To & Around San Diego

San Diego is home to its own international airport and, though small, it serves numerous airlines and has countless direct connections to many US cities, making San Diego an easy destination to reach from the majority of major cities in the United States.

If you’re coming internationally, it’s likely that you will end up flying into Los Angeles . San Diego is about a 2 to 3-hour drive from LA and there are lots of interesting places to visit along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by train in about three hours.

Once in San Diego, it’s easiest to get around the city if you have your own car, but it isn’t entirely necessary, especially if you only plan on spending time in the downtown area.

This area is easy enough to get around on foot and the extensive San Diego Trolley System can take you, inexpensively, to most places a bit further afield. Especially if you’re following the 2-day itinerary in this article, you may not need a car to be able to enjoy it to its fullest.

If you’re keen to venture outside of the downtown area, even to the beaches, then having a car in San Diego is going to prove the most convenient way to get around.

If you’re planning on renting a car before heading to San Diego, we suggest using Rentalcars.com to find great prices. The platform aggregates deals across many major car rental companies and saves you time and money when it comes to hiring a car.

2, 3 or 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary

If you only have two days, spend them exploring some of the highlights of the city. Day 1 concentrates on the sites in Downtown San Diego where day two brings you to Balboa Park, which is chock-full of some of the best of San Diego attractions.

If you’re planning on visiting many of San Diego’s fantastic attractions, consider investing in a San Diego Go City Pass . These city cards can offer up to 50% savings on many attractions across the city and can be an incredible value for money if you visit even just a handful of places.

Day 1 – Explore Downtown

Spend your first day in San Diego exploring the dynamic downtown area. There is so much to see and do in Downtown San Diego that you’re sure to be entertained and having fun all day long.

San Diego Maritime Museum

Start your day along the harbour at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Historically, San Diego has been a very important port and you can learn all about its seafaring history at this super cool museum.

Situated on San Diego Bay, the maritime museum is home to a number of different ships that you can tour and learn about how they worked and functioned back in the day. Visiting this museum is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in San Diego.

The most famous of the ships at the museum is the Star of India , an iron-hulled ship built in 1863 that sailed from Britain to India and New Zealand before being acquired by the US to haul salmon from Alaska to California. This ship is fascinating and really worth exploring.

Also in the collection include the Californian , a beautiful tall ship and the HMS Surprise , which is known for its movie appearances in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Master and Commander .

USS Midway Museum

Another museum on San Diego Bay is the USS Midway Museum and this is another great way to learn more about San Diego as an important Naval base.

Often lauded as one of the top museums in the entirety of San Diego (and there are a LOT of museums in the city!), this museum is actually based on a former aircraft carrier that you can tour and learn more about how an aircraft carrier functions.

In this museum, you can tour the ship itself and see everything behind the scenes, but you can also check out the aeroplanes and even try your hand at a flight simulator!

Both the Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum are excellent places to visit for both kids and adults alike because they’re interactive and educational.

Little Italy

From the Midway Museum, you can easily reach cool and trendy Little Italy on foot, and this is a great area to grab a bite to eat for lunch! Traditionally home to a number of Italian immigrants to San Diego, this area is now one of the most trendy neighbourhoods in the entire city.

Packed with both traditional Italian shops and delis, there are also ultra-hip restaurants, cool boutiques, awesome gastropubs and so much more.

Little Italy is definitely a neighbourhood worth exploring for a little bit as it is incredibly pedestrian-friendly and packed with cool things to see, do and eat! If you’re interested in exploring the culinary history of this cool area, check out this Little Italy food tour!

Seaport Village

Looping back toward the bayside area of downtown, it’s time now to head to Seaport Village.

This is an outdoor shopping centre that is situated directly on the water and it is packed full of restaurants and cool shops. This is the perfect place to pick up some fun souvenirs from your trip to San Diego!

Though there are certainly lots of shops in Seaport Village that shill mass-manufactured tourist souvenirs, there are plenty of local shops where you can pick up unique things as gifts or as mementoes from your trip to this lovely Southern California city.

Gaslamp Quarter

And finally, it’s time to head into one of the most iconic and well-known areas of San Diego’s downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter.

Comprising about sixteen city blocks, this area is known for being home to historic, Victorian-era buildings and the eponymous gaslamps, this district is known to be the foremost nightlife area of San Diego.

There is a lot of history in this picturesque and walkable district, especially considering it fell into complete disarray in the mid-20th century and became synonymous as San Diego’s red-light district.

Starting in the ’80s and ’90s, the district saw some new investments and a resurgence and is now a thriving and safe area of downtown San Diego and home to many iconic landmarks, including the massive Petco Park — home of the San Diego Padres!

The Gaslamp Quarter is ripe for exploring and, if you’re not travelling with kids, it’s also one of the best places to go for a night out in the city. If you’re interested in the culinary scene of this neighbourhood along with learning a bit about its not-so-savoury past, consider going on this food tour of the Gaslamp .

Day 2 – Visit the Attractions of Balboa Park

On your second day in San Diego, it’s time to head to Balboa Park. Home to beautiful gardens, seventeen museums and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, you can easily spend days in Balboa Park and still not see it all.

San Diego Zoo

If you’re an animal lover or travelling with kids, no visit to San Diego is complete without heading to the incredible San Diego Zoo. As the most visited zoo in the entirety of the United States and considered by many to be one of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is a place that you could easily devote an entire day to.

Famous for being one of the few zoos in the US that have successfully bred Giant Pandas (the two pandas that used to call the zoo home, however, have now been repatriated to their ancestral home in China), the San Diego Zoo is home to 650 species and more than 3,500 animals.

With exhibits spanning the entire globe, the zoo has the most koalas outside of Australia, and everything else from monkeys to elephants to polar bears.

So, if you are an animal lover, you absolutely can’t miss the San Diego Zoo.

Visit the Museums

Balboa Park is also famous for its many museums housed within the area and if you and your family aren’t keen to visit the zoo, then make sure not to miss one or two of the many museums located within the park.

My personal favourite museums include the Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Man, the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum, however, there are countless others that encompass everything from science to art and you’re sure to find a museum that suits your own interests.

If you want to visit the zoo and the museums in Balboa Park, this is where the San Diego Go City Pass can come in handy and end up paying for itself, as many of these attractions are included in it.

Explore the Gardens

Balboa Park is also home to some incredibly beautiful botanical gardens and if you’re looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, spending time exploring these gardens is the perfect antidote!

Some of the most beautiful gardens include the Japanese Friendship Garde, the Australian Garden, the Alcazar Garden, the Desert Cactus Garden and the beautiful Botanical Building. Take the time to wander (you can even do a walking tour of the area!) and enjoy the plant life and beautiful landscaping of these gardens — you won’t be sorry!

Day 3 – Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches

If you’re spending three days, it’s time to hit the beach! There are countless beaches in San Diego that all have different things to offer travellers.

Depending on your travel style, pick one beach area to spend the whole day in or take the day to explore the little towns and nature surrounding San Diego’s three main beach areas! For those who aren’t too interested in the beach, you can also use this time to explore Old Town San Diego.

Pacific Beach

The northernmost beach on day three, Pacific Beach is a beautiful, wide expanse of sand and is one of San Diego’s most beautiful beaches. Located just south of La Jolla and a bit north of Mission Bay, Pacific Beach is about a 20-30 minute drive from downtown San Diego, depending on the traffic.

The beach at PB is arguably the main attraction here and it is one of the most beautiful in the city. However, the town around it also has some nice attractions and maintains a classic, Southern California vibe.

There are lots of cool shops, restaurants and cafes that are worth popping into and, of course, you can’t go wrong with splashing around in the Pacific while here.

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is arguably San Diego’s most popular beach area and it really isn’t hard to understand why. The expansive Mission Beach is wide and beautiful, with calm enough waters that make it the perfect place to try your hand at surfing. There is also a great boardwalk area that is lined with various restaurants a surf shops.

Another major attraction of Mission Bay is Belmont Park, a classic seaside amusement park complete with a picturesque wooden roller coaster, countless other rides, arcades and more — the perfect place to entertain both young and old alike!

There are also some great restaurants in MB and the main attractions are very family-friendly, making this beach a great option for those with young kids as everyone is sure to be entertained here!

Ocean Beach

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe on the seaside, then you can’t go wrong with Ocean Beach. A beach suburb located about fifteen minutes from Downtown San Diego, you would be forgiven if you feel as if you’ve been transported back to the 1970s when wandering through this cool area.

This is one of the least touristy of beaches included on this itinerary and it is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a more local, mellow vibe rather than bustline Mission Bay or upscale Pacific Beach.

OB is famous amongst surfers and has some great surf spots and it is also home to some great, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, as well.

All in all, Ocean Beach is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for mellow, hippie vibes.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Located in Ocean Beach just a bit south of the beach itself is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a perfect place to head if you want to, well, watch the sunset.

These dramatic cliffs jut into the Pacific Ocean and provide absolutely stunning views. It is also a very popular area for more experienced surfers as there are large waves at the base of the cliffs.

There are also countless walking trails where you can meander along the cliff edges trying to seek out the perfect view, or you could opt to climb down the steps to the beach area and search for sea creatures in the many tide pools. If you’re fortunate enough, you may see some of San Diego’s many sea lions frolicking in the waves!

Cabrillo National Monument

A bit further afield along Point Loma from Sunset Cliffs lies the Cabrillo National Monument. Boasting many walking trails, tide pooling opportunities, and the potential for excellent views of the entirety of San Diego’s downtown area all the way to the Coronado Bridge.

Here you can also visit the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse and, at low tide, climb down to the sea and hunt for cool sea creatures in the tide pools. This is the perfect place to visit in the city of San Diego if you want to get a bit off the beaten tourist trail and experience some of the best views of the city.

Day 4 – Explore the surrounding area

If you have a full 4 days, there are numerous different options that you could follow. All of these options lie quite a bit further afield from downtown San Diego and each option should have an entire day devoted to it.

Coronado Island

The first way you could spend day four of your San Diego itinerary is to visit the lovely Coronado Island. Located across San Diego Bay and accessible via the iconic Coronado Bridge, this island is home to a charming downtown area, historic architecture, and the famous Hotel Del Coronado.

As the second-largest wooden structure in the United States, this Victorian-Era beach resort is absolutely beautiful and worth exploring even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

Coronado Beach is also, arguably, one of San Diego’s nicest — a vast expanse of sand with fairly calm waters, making it perfect for families. Coronado is also the perfect place to rent a bicycle and pedal along the seaside promenade and enjoy the lovely beachy vibes. You can also get great views of the San Diego skyline from Coronado Island, as well.

Those who want to do more than wander around the hotel or lounge on the beach may like this walking tour of historic Coronado . Or, if you just want to enjoy the beach from a distance, you can take a 2-hour cruise that goes past Coronado.

If you want to be a bit more active and explore one of San Diego’s most beautiful suburbs, then head a bit further north to explore the beautiful La Jolla area. Known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, great restaurants and expensive real estate, La Jolla is an elite neighbourhood but also absolutely gorgeous.

On any given day, you can see people paragliding from the iconic cliffs or kayaking in the waters below. This is the perfect place to explore San Diego from the water’s edge and to check out the sea caves and wildlife that live there.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding through La Jolla Cove are popular activities in the area and you can choose to do a two-hour guided kayaking tour to explore the sea caves or take a surfing lesson.

La Jolla is also home to the well-regarded Scripps Aquarium, where you can check out endemic sea life while staying nice and dry! Nearby, you can also visit Torrey Pines State Reserve, which has a number of great hikes and gorgeous views if you still want to be a bit active.

Day Trip to Baja California

If you’re looking for a complete change of scenery, then consider going on a day trip south of the border to lovely Baja California, Mexico! It is incredibly easy and fun to head to Mexico for a day and you have the opportunity to sample some of the best gastronomy in the world! For example, this full-day tour of Baja California packs a lot if you’re short on time!

Tijuana makes for an incredibly easy day trip as you can reach the border crossing at San Ysidro easily from the San Diego Trolley system and walk across the border in just about ten minutes — just make sure to bring your passport! Alternatively, you can take this intro to Mexico organised tour!

If you’re interested in heading further afield, you can easily hop on a bus to Ensenada , a lovely seaside city about an hour south of Tijuana. Ensenada is famed for being the birthplace of the fish taco and the fresh seafood in the city is second to none.

And finally, if you’re a wine fan, then you may be interested in touring the vineyards in the Valle de Guadalupe, located just inland from Ensenada. This area grows some fantastic wine and you can opt to go on a guided tour or drive yourself there — just make sure that your rental car allows you to cross the border!

Where to Stay in San Diego

Urban Boutique Hotel – Situated in cool and trendy Little Italy in the heart of downtown San Diego, this boutique hotel is a great place to base yourself in this Southern California city. Located within easy walking distance of many major attractions, they have numerous rooms available to suit all kinds of travellers. 

Hotel Del Coronado – One of the most iconic hotels in the country and not just San Diego, if you’re looking for a luxury stay in San Diego, you can’t go wrong with the Hotel Del. This hotel is not only absolutely beautiful and historic, it is situated on the lovely Coronado Beach, as numerous fantastic restaurants on site and also boasts countless other amenities that are sure to make your stay a great one.

Private Rental – Another popular option in San Diego is a private rental. There are countless properties available such as this charming studio in Pacific Beach that is super close to the beach.

California Dreams Hostel   – If you’re travelling to San Diego solo or on a tight budget, this hostel is an excellent choice for you. It is located in Pacific Beach close to numerous attractions in San Diego. They have both dorm and private rooms available and great common areas perfect for meeting other travellers.  

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in San Diego!

Planning the perfect San Diego itinerary isn’t always an easy task with so many things to do in the city. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend in San Diego or have longer to devote to the city, you’re sure to fall in love. Follow these tips to ensure you have an excellent trip to San Diego!

Are you planning to visit San Diego? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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10 Best Stops on a Portland to San Francisco Road Trip

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

HI Maggie, Great info provided in your blog. I plan to travel in Feb 12-17 to San Diego for Business trip and with few days available with me, I would like to spend time exploring San Diego and Maybe do a quick trip to LA. I may have 12th Feb late afternoon & Feb 13th half day & 17th Full day & 18th Half day Any suggestions. Kindly share, will be helpful.

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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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The 18 Best Things to Do in San Diego, From Art Museum Visits to Scenic Hikes

By Archana Ram and Marie Tutko

Some may scoff at its nickname—"America's Finest City"—but when it comes to things to do, San Diego offers more than just temperate weather year-round. Yes, as befitting any city in Southern California, there are pristine beaches; but there's also a vibrant arts scene; food and music that embrace the diversity of cultures here; and a rich military history that lend San Diego its distinct charm. As for that temperate weather—well, it means it's easy to get outside and enjoy some of the country's best hiking, biking, and surfing spots. Whatever has brought you to town, be sure to stop by the places on this list, a roster of the best things to do in San Diego.

Read our complete San Diego travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Arrow

A short 30-minute drive outside of downtown San Diego , this 1,750-acre oceanfront reserve promises sweeping ocean views for hikers. ( See our  favorite San Diego area hikes, here. ) The reserve is dedicated to preserving its namesake tree, the Torrey Pine, and surrounding wildlife, but travelers and locals come for the miles of trails through pine forests and sandstone canyons, and the 4.5-mile Torrey Pines State Beach. Torrey Pines is no hidden secret, but there's a reason crowds flock here. Plans to go are easy to make: The reserve is open 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset, and all entering cars must pay an admission fee, which ranges from $10-$25 (or free with a California State Parks Vehicle Day Use Pass ), depending on whether you park in the the North or South Beach parking lots. Keep in mind the visitors center is currently closed and guided hikes aren't offered at the moment.

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego — Museum Review Arrow

This local institution devoted to showcasing modern art is perched right across from the Pacific Ocean in the tony coastal community of La Jolla just outside San Diego , and recently reopened its doors after an extensive $105 million overhaul. This is the flagship location for the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego (there is a second location downtown), and the building was originally designed by architect Irving Gill as a home for philanthropist Ellen Browning Scripps–it was later converted into a museum in 1941. Today, MCASD has more than 4,000 pieces from renowned and emerging artists in its collection. If you’re pressed for time, be sure to check out what’s on display in the special exhibition gallery, as well as the paintings by Andy Warhol.

San Diego Zoo Arrow

The world-renowned San Diego Zoo spans 100 acres and houses more than 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Plan to spend at least a half-day at the zoo to get the full experience, which includes shows and animal presentations. During the summer, Nighttime Zoo event series allows visitors to stay later into the evening. There are plenty of restaurants throughout the park where parents can recuperate with a much-needed afternoon beer.

Torrey Pines Golf Course Arrow

The iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course is known for its two 18-hole championship courses that sit on a cliff overlooking the Pacific. From the scenery and challenging greens to the prestige factor, this course is a bucket-list destination for avid golfers—Tiger Woods has clinched career-defining wins here, and the word is former President Obama has teed off here, too. Every January, it hosts the Farmers Insurance Open, one of the top events in the PGA Tour, and the U.S. Open was held here in 2021. There's diverse terrain, ocean views, and hang gliders usually floating around holes 12 and 13 on the south course.

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Belmont Park Arrow

Amusement parks can be kitschy, indulgent, and a little cheesy—and at Belmont Park, we embrace it. The ocean-adjacent mini amusement park is hard to miss as you drive west on Mission Bay Drive, thanks to the towering Giant Dipper, a 2,600-foot-long roller coaster that soars above the park and offers ocean views. If you're ready for more, have a go on other classics like the Tilt-a-Whirl, zipline, or bumper cars. For lower-octane pursuits, there's also an arcade and carousel.

Balboa Park Arrow

Balboa Park is the cultural heart of San Diego , filled with world-class museums, restaurants, and beautiful greenery. The lush, 1,200-acre urban oasis is also home to nearly 30 museums and cultural centers, plus the world-famous San Diego Zoo. There are more than a dozen attractions in the park, each with its own events and special exhibitions.

La Jolla Cove Arrow

Luxuriate in SoCal splendor in the upscale seaside village of La Jolla Cove, a quick 20-minute drive from downtown San Diego . Wind through Prospect Street to browse shops like the iconic Warwick’s, the nation's oldest family-run bookstore, or dine with an ocean view at high-end restaurants like seafood-centric George’s at the Cove. Walk along seaside Coast Boulevard for primo photo ops of the cliffs, stopping at the Children’s Pool to watch sunbathing seals camped on the rocks. Head to Peter Lik fine art gallery for awe-inspiring landscape photography . And, if you need to, recharge your battery at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, a grassy area ideal for picnics and watching the sunset. Fun fact: It's the most-photographed place in San Diego.

Little Italy Arrow

This quaint neighborhood is the place to go for charming Italian restaurants and bakeries, wine bars, and boutique shopping. The main thoroughfare along India Street is home to trusty favorite Italian spots like Barbusa, Buon Appetito, and Civico 1845, but the neighborhood has made room for several non-Italian restaurants in recent years, such as Ironside Fish & Oyster , Juniper & Ivy , and Queenstown Public House. There's also a popular farmers market on Saturdays. The nightlife scene in Little Italy draws people in their thirties and forties.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá Arrow

There are 21 missions dotting the California coast, and San Diego lays claim to the first. Established in 1769, Mission San Diego de Alcalá is the physical representation of Christianity's birth on the West Coast. Even today, you can worship here—it's an active parish with Mass held daily—but even if you aren't a practicing Catholic, the mission is still a sight to behold, with white stucco walls, Spanish roof tiles, and grand archways. It stands on a hill overlooking Old Town with gorgeous views.

Petco Park Arrow

Petco Park is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening in San Diego , but the appeal doesn't stop at baseball. The stadium was named the best MLB ballpark to watch a game at by USA Today in 2022, and is among the few in the nation with a water view–it's a stone's throw from San Diego Bay. Hop heads will love the stellar local craft beer options: there are more than 40 different varieties poured at stalls and restaurants around the stadium. And with more than 50 dining options, Petco Park's culinary appeal stretches far beyond hot dogs. Many local restaurants run operations in the stadium, including Carnitas’ Snack Shack, Hodad’s, and Grand Ole BBQ. Some notable eateries that opened here in the past year include famed soup dumpling purveyor Din Tai Fung, Sambazon (acai bowls), Jack in the Box (the company was founded in San Diego) and San Diego’s Finest Hot Chicken.

Sunset Cliffs Arrow

Set atop jagged, postcard-worthy sea cliffs, San Diego 's aptly named Sunset Cliffs neighborhood rewards visitors with panoramic ocean views. Hands down San Diego's most popular spot at dusk, Sunset Cliffs attracts a crowd nightly for its serene, picture-perfect views. Part of the neighborhood overlaps with Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a 68-acre reserve known for its sea caves, rock arch formations, and extremely steep bluffs. Follow a path along the cliffs for a scenic walk, while making note of the sprawling homes nearby. Head up the hill to the nearby Little Lion Café for a healthy, Cali-bistro fare to-go or dine on their small patio. Or grab classic French dessert with a Cuban twist—like passion fruit caramels and a mango cheesecake—at Chef Vivian Hernandez-Jackson's excellent neighborhood patisserie Azucar and head to the water for a sweet sunset.

Del Mar Racetrack Arrow

The Del Mar Racetrack is a spectacle for high rollers and casual gamblers alike, with lightening-fast horse races that'll get your heart pumping. The track is open Thursday through Sunday, holding about eight to 12 races daily. There are 30 minutes between races to place your bets or refill your drink. In general, it's mostly adults here, but during the track's non-racing hours, the venue holds special events like food truck festivals and concerts that can bring a more diverse age range. General admission tickets are $8.

USS Midway Museum Arrow

This 971-foot-long floating museum is the best way to learn about and honor San Diego 's significant naval community. The decommissioned aircraft carrier is one of the most popular attractions in San Diego. Visitors can get a taste of navy life by visiting the plane-packed flight deck, sprawling hangar bay, mess hall, and berthing. The museum hosts about 400 active-duty military events annually—including reenlistment, retirement, and change-of-command ceremonies—which are all open for the public to observe.

Cabrillo National Monument Arrow

This nature preserve and historic site at the edge of the Point Loma peninsula is one of the most picturesque spots in San Diego . It’s about 20 minutes from downtown, with the scenic ocean views starting from the moment you drive in. Once you park at the visitor center, you’re treated to panoramic views of San Diego Bay, downtown, Coronado, and the naval station on North Island. On clear afternoons, you can see all the way to Tijuana, Mexico. The park spans 140-plus acres, and there’s plenty of outdoor activities here from hiking trails to exploring tide pools, or just enjoying the views from one of the many overlooks. Cabrillo National Monument is a landmark where several milestones in San Diego’s modern history converge.

The Whaley House Museum Arrow

The Whaley House Museum has been called one of the most haunted houses in the United States. The two-story Greek Revival-style home was built by businessman Thomas Whaley in 1857, and the Whaleys experienced several tragedies after moving into the home, including the deaths of two of their children. The property was already rumored to be haunted before the home was built since the grounds were once an execution yard, and paranormal activity is said to occur in the house to this day. A guided evening tour is the way to go here. Being in the home after sundown adds to the spine-tingling effect, and the guides–who are dressed in Victorian-era clothing–are enthusiastic storytellers. The details they share about the neighborhood’s history, the Whaley family, and the tragedies that happened on the property makes it all engaging and brings the house to life.

Barrio Logan Arrow

One of California's 14 Cultural Districts, this historic, artsy neighborhood is rooted in Mexican and Chicano cultures. The most obvious proof is Chicano Park, the neighborhood's collection of more than 80 outdoor murals painted onto the concrete girders of the Coronado Bridge. The larger-than-life portraits depict iconic cultural figures, like revolutionary Emiliano Zapata and Aztec goddesses. Many of the hip, modern businesses that have landed are still rooted in the community's culture. There's Por Vida for coffee, Border X Brewing for Mexican-inspired craft beers like a horchata brew, Salud! for street tacos that garners long (long) lines, and Simón Limón, which sells beauty and home goods. And for old-school flavor and some of the best Mexican food in San Diego , don't miss a meal at Las Cuatro Milpas , but get there early—they usually sell out by lunchtime.

Coronado Arrow

The dreamy city of Coronado is an island (technically, a peninsula) stronghold of hotels, resorts, and beach-front restaurants. Make the short, two-mile journey over one of San Diego ’s most recognizable structures, Coronado Bridge, or take the ferry to get there. The main business district, which hugs Orange Avenue, is filled with shops, restaurants, and family-friendly hangouts like MooTime Creamery, so it's a popular spot for families. And, of course, the famous Hotel Del Coronado continues to be a draw.

Cedros Avenue Design District Arrow

Take a stroll down the palm tree-lined Cedros Avenue Design District in sunny Solana Beach to shop at eclectic local independent boutiques, galleries, and home goods stores. With more than 85 shops jam-packed into a petite two-and-a-half blocks, this condensed district can be easily traversed within an afternoon. But you might want to spend more time: there's plenty of local art to catch at the galleries, along with great stores for clothing, and a fantastic farmers market on Sundays.

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The Top 20 Things to Do in San Diego, California

Before you go on a trip to San Diego , one of the biggest cities in the country, it's helpful to learn about all the great attractions the area has in store. "America's Finest City" features everything from beautiful beaches to historic and artistic districts and beloved zoos and parks. Regardless of whether you're traveling with family or on your own, find out about the most popular and fun things to do in San Diego.

Stroll Around Little Italy

David Madison / Getty Images

The Little Italy neighborhood—a charming and walkable area in downtown San Diego—is the city's oldest business district, dating back to the 1920s. It's a great place to dine on Italian food at casual and elegant restaurants, some with lovely outdoor patios. Visitors also enjoy sipping on an espresso in local cafés, exploring small shops, and checking out annual cultural events such as the Mission Fed ArtWalk in late April and Taste of Little Italy  in the middle of June.

Learn About History in the Gaslamp Quarter

Mindy_Nicole_Photography / Getty Images

The Gaslamp Quarter near The San Diego Convention Center downtown is not very large, so it is easy to walk around. Learn about one of the city's oldest neighborhoods and its restored 19th-century buildings—many of which were once saloons and brothels. The Gaslamp appeals to travelers and locals who enjoy the many eateries such as the award-winning Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant Nobu , along with nightclubs, shops, and other businesses. While you are there, check out the charming Victorian-style Horton Grand Hotel , the city's oldest hotel.

Chill Out in La Jolla

TripSavvy / Sharyn Umaña-Angers 

La Jolla is the city's prime seaside neighborhood, about 20 minutes north of downtown San Diego. In Spanish, La Jolla means "the jewel," and its location on the cliffs overlooking the ocean certainly makes it a gem of a place to visit. Visitors like to shop and eat in La Jolla's excellent restaurants, some of which have lovely ocean views. There's a lot for the active tourist, too, including ocean kayaking, marveling at tide pools, surfing at Windansea Beach, biking, and running along the beach. The neighborhood is also a charming spot for window shopping and people watching while strolling through town.

Tour the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon

Given San Diego's military ties, it's the perfect place to turn a 1,001-foot-long aircraft carrier as tall as a 20-story building into a tourist attraction at Navy Pier in downtown San Diego.

The USS Midway was the longest-serving U.S. Navy carrier in the 20th century, working from 1945 through 1992. There were 4,500 men on the crew. The ship is impressive enough by itself, but you'll also find more than 30 aircraft and helicopters on display, a fraction of its theoretical capacity of more than 100.

The best part of the Midway are its docents; many of them are military retirees who served on the ship or other aircraft carriers, and you will hear firsthand accounts of what it was like to work aboard such vessels. Note that while the ship wasn't built for tourists, 60 percent of the exhibits are wheelchair-accessible as several elevators and access routes have been added.

Explore Balboa Park

Initially built and named "City Park" in 1868, the park located just a five-minute drive from downtown San Diego was renamed and used during the 1915-16 Panama-California Exposition. Now, Balboa Park is the city's most-loved park. It boasts buildings beautiful enough to be considered attractions in themselves, especially if you're a photographer. Trees, lawns, and fountains surround them, but that's only the beginning. Families and individuals of all ages and interests can likely find something to enjoy. In Balboa Park, you can take a walk, ride a bike, see a Shakespeare play, hop on a carousel, or go to the San Diego Zoo . With numerous gardens and 17 museums to choose from , you could be busy here for days.

Check Out Coronado Island

TripSavvy / Sharyn Umaña-Angers

Coronado isn't an island but a peninsula—a fact that doesn't get in the way of the name most people use for it. Whatever you call it, the narrow strip of land between the San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean is barely a few blocks wide. What Coronado lacks in size it makes up for in fun, with a beach that's been ranked among the best in the country, the classic Hotel del Coronado, and a lively downtown. Whether you stroll along Coronado Beach or browse the peninsula's boutique shops, Coronado's laid-back temperament makes a nice break from the busier parts of San Diego across the water.

Go on a Harbor Cruise

Water plays a prominent role in San Diego. Downtown faces it, and Point Loma and Coronado surround the large, calm bay. With its oceanfront location, there's a lot to see along the shores, and much of it is best explored by boat. While sailing around the harbor, you'll not only get lovely city views, you'll also get a peek at the Pacific Fleet consisting of 46 Navy ships, several vessels, and more. Also, a harbor cruise is the best way to get a feel for just how tall the Coronado Bridge is.

Visit the San Diego Zoo

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer

The San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park often shows up on top zoo lists and is active in animal conservation. One of the first animals on display was a Kodiak bear named Caesar in 1916. Today, the San Diego Zoo is a far cry from the zoos of the past, with the animals living in the most natural settings possible. Among the animals on the zoo's 100 acres, you'll find California Condors, koalas, and albino pythons. And although few visitors may notice, there's also a prominent botanical collection featuring thousands of exotic plants.

Relax and Swim at the Beach

Head west from any part of San Diego, and you'll probably end up at a beach. When you get there, you can swim, surf, watch a sandcastle competition, go for a walk, or play with your dog. The trick is to know which beach is the right one for you. La Colla Cove, with its grottos and protective restrictions, is great for diving and snorkeling, while Windansea Beach is a surfer's paradise thanks to its steep ocean floor and reef break. But if you're just here to relax and take in the sunshine, nothing beats Coronado Beach.

Take the Kids to Legoland

This theme park in coastal Carlsbad, about 30 minutes from downtown San Diego, is one of several Legolands worldwide. Here, kids of all ages will find rides, activities, and attractions to enjoy, including Coastersaurus, Emmet's Flying Adventure Ride, and a Lego factory tour, where they can learn how the bricks are made. Surrounding the rides, you'll find life-sized traffic cops, dinosaurs, and a dizzying collection of other creations made from Lego blocks all throughout the park.

See the Sea Creatures at Birch Aquarium

 Richard Cummins / Getty Images

Birch Aquarium is about 10 minutes north of La Jolla. While it's not as big as some of the other aquariums in California, it is filled with exciting exhibits for the whole family to enjoy. Marine life from leafy sea dragons to leopard sharks is found in more than 60 habitats. Some creatures seem so improbable they look more like something from a children's book than from the ocean. If you get hungry, stop at Splash Café or Shark Café, which overlooks the ocean. 

Soak in the Views From Cabrillo National Monument

The first European to visit San Diego, Spanish explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo stepped on the shore near Cabrillo National Monument , located at the southern end of the Point Loma Peninsula, in 1542. We don't know if Cabrillo climbed to the top of this promontory or not, but people who make it get some of the best views of San Diego, looking across the Bay and back toward downtown.

While much of the year, there's enough moisture in the air to obscure the views, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking on a clear day. In addition to the gorgeous vista, there's a historic lighthouse, visitor center, some beautiful tide pools down below, and good whale-watching in the winter.

Walk Around One of San Diego's Arts Districts

TripSavvy / Ana Alarcon 

Discover San Diego's up-and-coming creative side at one of the city's 14 cultural districts . The popular Barrio Logan in south-central San Diego is home to young artists and designers, while hip North Park and South Park—each about 10 minutes northeast of downtown San Diego—are full of great food and fashion-forward boutiques. South Park is also home to one of the city's most famous pieces of street art, a mural of a Burmese monk by Shepard Fairey, who created the Barack Obama Hope poster.

Gorge on Fish Tacos

Oscar's Mexican Seafood / Facebook

You didn't think you could go to San Diego without trying fish tacos, did you? While you really can't go wrong with a round of the city's finest fare at pretty much any eatery in the city, we're a huge fan of Oscars ' Baja-style, battered fish and shrimp tacos, each served on corn tortillas and topped with cabbage, onion, tomato, and cilantro. If you want to take things up a notch, go for the Taco Especial—made with smoked fish, shrimp, and scallops—or the grilled octopus taco. Rubio's , too, is a popular chain that has been dishing out fresh fish since 1983. With multiple locations around the city, their original fish taco—which features beer-battered, wild Alaska Pollock as the base—is polished off with mild salsa, cabbage, and a white sauce. And if you want your tacos with a side of beer, make your way to Coronado Brewing Company , where you can choose between beer-battered cod, Cajun-spiced shrimp, and blackened seared ahi to pair with your IPA.

Hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

This 1,750-acre reserve is one of only two places in the U.S. where you can see the country's rarest pine tree—Pine torreyana—and serves to protect some 3,000 Torrey Pines as well as other wildlife indigenous to the area. With 8 miles of trails , you can see everything from sandstone canyons and awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean to one of Southern California's last salt marshes and waterfowl refuges. Hike the Guy Fleming trail, a 0.7-mile loop that features two overlooks and an abundance of wildflowers come spring (winter visitors, however, would do well to come for the migrating gray whales off the coast). On the 1.4-mile, round-trip Razor Point Trail, you'll get incredible views of ravines and badlands, while the aptly named, quarter-mile Beach Trail ends down at Torrey Pines State Beach—a perfect place to picnic. There's also a visitor center, where you can sign up for one-hour guided tours on weekends and holidays.

Sample One or More of the City's 150-Plus Breweries

Courtesy of Societe Brewing Company

Self-described as the Craft Beer Capital of America, San Diego more than earns its title by boasting more than 150 breweries , dozens of tasting rooms, an annual beer week , and beer-centric events like the San Diego Brew Festival . So while you're here, it goes without saying that sipping some of the city's famed West Coast-style IPAs should be on your agenda (in fact, we have Green Flashing Brewing Co. to thank for trademarking the style). Take a trip to their tasting room to get a taste of the beer that started it all , then make your way over to Societe Brewing Company and sample four categories of beers—Out West, Old World, Stygian, and Feral—and be sure to try The Coachman, a session IPA that's claimed the gold at the Great American Beer Festival twice.

Tour Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá

Founded in July 1769, Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá (also called Mission San Diego) is the first of California's 21 missions, the rest of which you can visit on California's Historic Mission Trail . The church was rebuilt in 1931, and today features a 46-foot Campanario (bell tower), the first historic cemetery in the state, and gardens blooming with hibiscus, succulents, and olive trees. Learn about the history and role of the mission through informative displays, and check out the Casa de los Padres room, where you can see large drawings depicting mission events. The onsite Padre Jayme Museum is currently undergoing expansion, and it will detail the history of the mission from the pre-16th to the 20th centuries and showcase original artifacts when it's completed. Head to the mission's website to book an individual or group tour .

Ride Coasters at Belmont Park

Open since July 4, 1925, this beachfront amusement park and entertainment center in the city's Mission Bay area will take you straight to the theme parks of yesteryear. You could easily spend an entire day here, with 13 rides—including the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, which was designated a National Landmark in 1990—and six attractions. Tee off at the 18-hole, tiki-themed mini-golf course, soar up to 15 miles an hour on the zipline, and play laser tag in a three-level arena. When you need a refreshment, grab a quick bite at El Jefe taco shop, choose between one of the 70-plus beers on draft at Draft Mission Beach, or splurge on shareable plates and cocktails at the oceanfront Cannonball.

Ride the Waves at One of the City's Legendary Beaches

With 70 miles of open ocean coastline, San Diego draws surfing pros and novices alike to hang ten. While Windansea Beach is arguably one of the city's most popular surf spots (see above), you can find equally good waves at less crowded locales. Oceanside and Pacific Beach are both excellent places for beginners to hone their skills, while Cardiff State Beach is a favorite among experts (pro surfer Rob Machado is known to regularly ride the waves here). If you're new to the sport, you can find great surfing schools throughout the city, including Pacific Surf Group and San Diego Surf School , both of which offer private, semi-private, and group lessons. For those who just want to observe, the annual World Bodysurfing Championship and the Imperial Beach Surf Dog Competition (yes, surfing dogs!) welcome spectators from all over.

Watch the Sunset From Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Located on Point Loma's western shoreline and spanning 68 acres, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park boasts 400-foot sea cliff formations, caves, an intertidal zone, and, as its name suggests, pretty spectacular views at sunset. And, if you happen to be here between December and early April, the regional park is an excellent spot to watch gray whales swim up the coast during their annual migration. Be sure to arrive early: It can get crowded.

San Diego Tourism Authority. "The Craft Beer Capital of America." Retrieved on February 4, 2022.

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First Time in San Diego

9 things to know before you go.

Visiting San Diego for the first time? This guide will help you plan your trip with an overview of the best things California’s Beach City has to offer.

San Diego Has Culture in Spades

Comic-Con is lots of fun, but San Diego's culture comes in many forms other than superheroines and superheroes.

Take Balboa Park , San Diego's vast central public park, for starters. In addition to beautiful gardens, it's home to 17 museums and cultural institutions encompassing science, air and space, railroads, anthropology, natural history, and art—including a collection stocked with works from greats like Matisse, Monet, Dalí, and O'Keeffe.

Public art, like massive colorful neighborhood murals, emblazons walls in every corner of the city. The campus of University of California San Diego leads a second life as an open-air public art museum. Permanent pieces by a variety of renowned artists are permanent parts of the idyllic campus' Stuart Collection .

Music lovers will perk their ears to the city's symphony and philharmonic, not to mention the never-ending stream of acts that play venues like House of Blues San Diego , the iconic indie rock haven Casbah, Belly Up Tavern , the annual Kaaboo Del Mar festival, and more.

Architecture plays a starring role in the region, from the distinctive Central Library to the world famous Salk Institute to the 2-mile, elegantly arcing Coronado Bridge.

For a dose of history, check out the Cabrillo National Monument , which commemorates the first landing of the Spanish in California, as well as Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá in Mission Valley and Mission San Luis Rey in Oceanside .

San Diego is Synonymous with Craft Beer (And Don't Forget Wine, Kombucha, Cider, and Mead)

You can thank the San Diego region from almost single handedly igniting America's thirst for a universe of delicious, small-batch suds. Names like Stone Brewing , Ballast Point , and Green Flash put San Diego on the beer lover's map, right next to Belgium, Germany, and the United Kingdom. It's not easy to keep track of them all, but north of 150 breweries in San Diego turn out an ever-changing array of beer styles, available on countless taps at bars, restaurants, and tasting rooms in every corner of the county. But the obsession goes much further.

San Diego's dry, sunny climate makes it a wine region, dotted with wineries that make for lovely outings to the rural towns and backcountry. For that matter, San Diego is currently experiencing a craft spirits boom, with numerous kinds of liquor being handcrafted in the same quality-is-king fashion as the local beer. Let's not leave out craft kombucha, cider , and mead, all of which are brewed locally and available on tap at many locations.

San Diego is a Boat Lover's Paradise

San Diego is surrounded by water, and you'd better believe there's every kind of water craft imaginable here. Let's start big: The USS Midway Museum , an aircraft carrier that was the biggest ship in the world until 1955, is permanently docked in the downtown waterfront, home to 30 restored aircraft, and other exhibits.

Just a few blocks away is the Maritime Museum of San Diego . Tour the tall-masted Star of India, the oldest active sailing ship in the world, which survived a cyclone in the Bay of Bengal, trapped in Alaska, and 21 trips around the globe.

With such glorious boating weather, there's hardly a day when you can't charter a boat for a sailing lesson or a sunset cruise with the family or a special someone. To see the whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions that populate the coast, you can hop aboard a traditional whale-watching boat , or climb inside a much smaller craft used by Navy SEALs to get up close and personal with the marine mammals.

The placid waters of Mission Bay are ideal year-round for learning to pilot small craft of every kind, from small sailboats to kayaks and SUPs .

The Culinary Scene is Truly World Class

San Diegans aren't the boastful type, so we'll do it for them: San Diego can hold its own against any foodie destination on earth. Local chefs and restaurants have earned many of the highest food-world accolades and appeared on every food show on television, including numerous Top Chef appearances. Using ingredients fished from local waters, raised or grown on local farms, or carefully picked from far-flung regions abroad, San Diego chefs create top-notch food of every kind. Classy, casual, hole-in-the-wall, hip. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and tacos in between. You're bound to find the right restaurant with the right mood—and first rate eats—wherever you look.

Let's not forget the profound influence that Baja plays in local cuisine. San Diego could well be considered the world capitol of fish tacos, and familiar Mexican staples like burritos, tacos, fajitas, and mariscos can be found in every style—and every level from food truck to fine restaurant—around the region. Cali-Baja cuisine is truly a San Diego original.

San Diego – a Nature's Lovers Dream Come True

Endless sunshine and a mild climate naturally make San Diego one of the most biodiverse places in the United States. From teeming wetlands, tide pools and grey whales to cacti, mountain lions and hawks, they're all here.

The same is true for the landscape, which incorporates everything from the stunning coastline to the desert and snow-capped peaks over 6,500-feet tall. But when you add to those natural features the zoos, aquariums, and public gardens, you have a nature lover's bonanza.

For good reason, the San Diego Zoo (near downtown ) and the San Diego Zoo Safari Park (near Escondido ) are known the world over. Between them, they're home to a ferocious litany of critters from jungles, savannahs, and seas everywhere.

The experts at Scripps Institution of Oceanography provide the public with a chance to see sea turtles, leopard sharks , moray eels, and 5,000 other sea creatures in dozens of different habitats.

Plant lovers swoon for colorful blooms, prickly cacti, and plump succulents at Balboa Park's 16 gardens , including the Japanese Friendship Garden  and a rose garden bursting with 22,400 rose bushes.

The Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve  is just one of two places that stately, rare Torrey Pine trees naturally grow.

And the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park  is the largest state park in California.

It Can Be As Wild and Crazy or As Calm and Blissful As You Like

Spring breakers know San Diego as a place to whoop it with the city's vibrant nightlife . Golfers  know it as the home to the world-famous links of Torrey Pines. Those who meditate or revel in spiritual experience or luxury spas recognize San Diego as a global center of these relaxing, reinvigorating pursuits at places like the Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple or spas like SpaTerre at Kona Kai Resort & Spa , Willows Spa at Viejas Casino & Resort, and others. Whether you're looking for a crazy good time, or a blissful rejuvenating one, it's here, just waiting for your arrival.

San Diegans Are True Localvores

What doesn't San Diego produce? The region is home to an astounding array of farms and orchards growing everything from wine grapes, to fruits and vegetables, not to mention the fruits of the sea that fishing fleets catch each day. The county is even home to one coffee plantation, courtesy of musician Jason Mraz, who's growing the beans on his Oceanside farm. And all that bounty—citrus fruit, avocado , lobster, you-name-it—finds its way onto innumerable menus, as well as into local craft beer, kombucha, cider, and basically everything else made in San Diego.

Looking for Adventure? You've Come to the Right Place

Anyone looking to experience a bit of adrenaline will find it in San Diego. San Diego's famous surf —consistently fun all year-round—is just the beginning. The ocean also offers the chance to snorkel  face to face with gentle leopard sharks, drop in a line on a deep sea fishing trip, or strap on a scuba  tank to experience the biodiversity of the Pacific coast. If being on the ocean surface is more your speed, try zooming around on a jet ski, kayaking  into sea caves, or sailing  on a boat that raced in the America's Cup.

Take to the air with a full-ocean-view skydive in Oceanside, or lift off at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, a world famous paragliding and hang gliding destination. There's even indoor skydiving .

The rugged backcountry hides phenomenal granite for rock climbing, ample trails for hiking , mountain biking  and running , and plenty of opportunities to get behind the wheel of an ATV.

Cyclists love both the coastal roadways in eyeshot of the ocean as well as the winding country roads.

Whether you ask a surfer, a marathoner, an open water swimmer, a cyclist—or an average Joe just looking for a good time—they'll all tell you the same thing: San Diego has it all.

Coronado Island – Just Across The Bridge, but A World Away

Coronado Island is an idyllic small town escape just minutes from downtown San Diego. Whether you reach it via the Coronado Ferry or the iconic Coronado Bridge, the resort island's hotels, restaurants, and beaches are a stone's throw from downtown San Diego. With one side facing the waterfront skyline and the other the Pacific, Coronado is blessed with both calm waters and fun waves. The Mica-rich sand's glittery appearance makes it recognized among the best beaches in the United States.

The laid-back pace of life makes it perfect to explore via foot or bike. Don't miss the mansions and manicured gardens along the beach. Art galleries, restaurants, and the Coronado Museum of History and Art  line Orange Avenue, the island's main drag Golf-lovers should swing down to the celebrated public course. And everyone—whether to stay overnight, to dine or drink, or simply view the National Historic Landmark where presidents, movie stars, and royal families have alighted—will enjoy the Hotel Del Coronado .

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Home » North America » San Diego

SAN DIEGO Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

San Diego is a bustling city, known for its beaches, parks and warm weather! It’s the eighth-largest city in the United States of America, which means that there’s always something to do as well as a great number of activities to take part in.

In this itinerary for San Diego, we’ll make sure you find the best places to visit in San Diego in 2 days. Taking a trip to this modern metropolis doesn’t get easier! Start booking your flights, cause we’ve put together some of the most irresistible activities and sightseeing tours for you to take part in.

If you’re spending a weekend in San Diego, you’re in for a real treat. The contrast between their famous natural deepwater harbor, epic beaches, and the hustle and bustle of busy city life makes planning a trip to San Diego a breeze!

Here’s everything you need to know about how to plan a trip to San Diego!

A Little Bit about this 3-Day San Diego Itinerary

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This itinerary takes in San Diego itself (Downtown, Marina etc) as well as taking in some of the wider, surrounding beauty stops. The magic of San Diego is not really found in the city centre so do take the time and make the effort to get around the area.

Further in this guide we have covered tips about how to get around San Diego and public transportation info is also provided with details and each attraction.

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3 Day San Diego Itinerary Overview

• Day 1 in San Diego: Balboa Park , Museum of Art , Lunch in Marina , USS Midway , Embarcadero , Gaslamp Quarter
• Day 2 in San Diego: Point Loma , Cabilla Monument , San Diego Historic Park , Coronado Beach
• Day 3 in San Diego: Belmont Park , Children’s Pool Park , Liberty Public Museum , Hotel Del Coronado , Torrey Pines Gliderport

Looking for accommodation for your trip? Check out our epic San Diego Hostel Guide for the best places to stay!

With a San Diego City Pass , you can experience the best of San Diego at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

We’re going to make the decision easy by giving you some of the best places to stay in San Diego in 2 days.

Ocean Beach is a great neighborhood for beach bums and surfers! You’ll find the streets lined with surf shops and quaint coffee shops open early. You’ll find that the neighborhood is home to a collection of old school bungalows. Street vendors and street performers take to the sidewalks to bring you the best entertainment and tasty treats.

If you enjoy a laid back vibe, then Ocean Beach is definitely your scene!

The Gaslamp Quarter is filled to the brim with students and young professionals looking to party the night away. A thriving nightlife is what this fantastic little neighborhood has to offer. There are a wide variety of nightlife scenes in this bustling neighborhood! Clubs, dive bars, lounges, and sports bars are all an option if you stay in the Gaslamp Quarter! So if you’re looking to sleep all day and party all night on your vacation in San Diego, this is the place for you!

La Jolla is literally a hidden gem in San Diago . Located a little way out of the bustling city, it provides the peace and quiet that the city sometimes lacks. It’s a beachside neighborhood that is bordered by rocky cliffs that are a great adventuring opportunity! You’ll also find a nature reserve and an underwater park in this location, so if you’re up for a little exploring, this is a perfect fit.

Now that you know some of the best neighborhoods to stay in, it’s time to look at hotels and amazing San Diego hostels that should be added to your itinerary!

Best Hostel in San Diego – Lucky D’s

This colorful hostel is situated in a very central location, making it a breeze to travel to all the very best San Diego points of interest. If you’re wondering what to see in San Diego, their friendly staff are sure to point you in the right direction! Wake up to free breakfast every morning and take part in the hostel’s pub crawl and other nightly social events.

Best Airbnb in San Diego:  Studio in the action of Old Town

Located in the heart of Old Town is this little cottage vacation home in San Diego . Besides the excellent location this home has, there is a hot tub you can dip your feet in after a long day exploring the beaches. And in the morning, enjoy your cup of joe in the peaceful shared courtyard. It is simple but quaint, and you can’t beat the location! It’s just footsteps away from the trolly and impeccable cafes you have to try.

Affordable Luxury Home near Ocean Beach – House w/ 360-Ocean View Rooftop Deck

Located across from Ocean Beach is the delightful coastal neighborhood of Mission Beach, where this incredible luxury property resides. Boasting 360 degree views from its private rooftop deck, plus ocean views from inside the property, those wanting a beach-side vacation in San Diego will love this place. This property comes with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms (one bedroom being in an attached studio), plus a gourmet kitchen, private garage and huge dining table that can accommodate all 10 guests. Downtown San Diego is just a 10-minute drive away.

If you’re spending one day in San Diego, you need to make sure you’re adding all the main attractions to your itinerary! On your first day, you’ll spend the day strolling through nature and exploring the most beautiful sights in the city.

10.00 am – Balboa Park

Balboa Park is a 1200 acre urban park that could easily rival the world’s best! There’s no better way to start your morning than by exploring these expansive and absolutely beautiful grounds.

There is a network of cultivated gardens scattered around the park that contains over 350 different plant species, making this a great adventure for nature lovers!

The gardens were created by a botanist named Kate Sessions in the very early 1900s. Kate is now referred to as the  Mother of Balboa Park .

In the gardens, you’ll also find  Botanical House , which is one of the largest lath buildings in the world. In it, you’ll find over 1,200 individual plants and a marvelous pond decorated with a scattering of lily pads and lotus flowers.

• Cost –  Free to stroll around
• How long should I stay here?  60 minutes taking in the grounds
• Getting there –  Plenty of busses drop here

11.00 am – San Diego Museum of Art

This museum is every art-lovers dream! Although the museum mainly contains art from the Spanish Renaissance and Baroque paintings, in recent years many paintings have been donated that contain a variety of different styles. Now you can expect to see symbolist and expressionist works, as well as paintings from the new objectivity movement, which adds a variety to the museum that wasn’t there before!

You can expect to see works from El Greco, Murillo, Goya and Zurbaran, as well as Dutch masters such as Veronese, Canaletto, van Dyck, Rubens and Frans Hals.

The museum was built in 1926 in the same style of the buildings that were built in 1915 to create a harmonious look to Balboa Park!

The museum holds many events, so it may be a good idea to check out their website to see the up-and-coming events. Expect cocktail evening, film screenings and discounted after hours art viewing!

• Cost: USD $15
• How long should I stay here? 60 minutes
• Getting there – Plenty of busses drop here

12.30 pm – Lunch at Marina

By this point you will probably be feeling a bit hungry. The good news is that our next calling point is situated in the San Diego Marina and there are plenty of great food spots nearby to head into beforehand. There are food trucks selling taco’s but if you want a high quality, sit down meal then check out Salore, Lion’s share or Eddie V’s Prime Sea Food.

• Cost:  $10 – $30 per person
• How long should I stay here?  60 minutes
• Getting there –  To save time take cab. 8 minutes and approx $15

2.00 pm – USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway was commissioned in 1945 and served in the Vietnam war, as well as Operation Desert Storm before being transformed into the largest museum dedicated to aircraft carriers in the world.

There are self-guided tours that give you the opportunity to explore the ship and see over 30 restored aircrafts.

These will consist of 8 propeller planes, 14 jet aircrafts, and 8 helicopters. If you’re not that into aircrafts, don’t worry. There’s plenty more to see!

The tour will lead you into the ship, where you’ll explore the galley, the brig, the crew’s sleeping quarters, the pilot’s ready room, and the engine room. You will also have a chance to hear snippets from people who served aboard the USS Midway.

The tour is very interactive and gives you the chance to get involved in simulations, climb into the cockpit of airplanes, and watch documentaries about the dramatic events that took place aboard this great ship. If you’re a history lover, you’re sure to enjoy this adventure! It’s one of the best  things to do in San Diego .

• Cost:  USD $22
• How long should I stay here? 120 minutes
• Getting there –  Walk here from the Marina

4.00 pm – Explore Embarcadero

A tour to San Diego is simply not complete without a visit to the beautiful Embarcadero harbor! The harbor has a beautiful view of Coronado Island and is filled with interesting shops, eateries and sights.

During summer nights, you’ll hear a symphony orchestra playing along the promenade where you can stop to enjoy a free concert as the sun sets over the water.

The harbor is always filled with the most exotic cruise ships! These are massive ships that take guests on trips to places all around the world.

Take a lengthy stroll around the harbor to explore the many points of interest along the way. You’ll find interesting statues, a kiddie playground, and many pop-up stores and street performers. There’s no lack of entertainment at this wonderful San Diego attraction!

• Cost:  Free

6.00 pm – Gas Lamp Quarter

The Gas Lamp quarter is hip and lively district known for it’s nightlife. Our San Diego itinerary ends the first night here where you can stroll around people watching, keep some find food and maybe a few drinks if you are in the mood. There are establishments to suit all tastes from American diners, cool restaurants, trendy wine bars and craft ale pubs.

How long you linger and how late you stay out in the Gaslamp Quarter depends on you. Many bars will stay open until midnight or even 2am. Just remember we have day 2 tommorow!

• How long should I stay here?  120 minutes
• Getting there –  You can walk from the Marina

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

If you’re spending 2 days in San Diego, you get a chance to explore the wider area. Some of the distances between stops are pretty big so this day is a lot better with a car. However, it is possible by public transport if you don’t mind a good few hours of bus time.

8.00 am – Point Loma

Point Loma has a rocky coastline that offers unforgettable views and a myriad of different photo opportunities. A visit to this coastline is one you’ll surely want to remember, so don’t forget to bring your camera along for the trip!

In 1542, Europe sent its first expedition to explore America, and Point Loma was their very first landing point.

There are many attractions and sights in Point Loma because of its wonderful history and beautiful scenery. Because of the exposed coastline in this area, there has always been a strong military presence.

There is a 77.5-acre fort, called Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery that contains over 100,000 graves. It’s an incredible sight to behold! There are also a couple of meaningful monuments dedicated to those who died in a tragic accident that claimed the lives of many.

From the coastline, you can enjoy the solitude of whale watching or fishing, or if you’d like more of a thrill you could join the rock climbers that scale the cliff face.

• Cost:  Free!
• How long should I stay here?  Take the whole morning
• Getting there –  We suggest renting a car or using a Ride share like Uber or Lyft. Public transport takes nearly 2 hours

11.00 am – Cabrillo National Monument

Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo’s expedition landed in Point Loma in 1542 and named the bay San Miguel which was later changed to San Diego in 1602. The statue of Cabrillo was donated to San Diego by the Portuguese government in 1939!

If you’d like to know more about Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and his voyage across the ocean, be sure to visit the Cabrillo National Monument Museum !

You can watch a movie and see exhibits and maps of the trip that took him along the Californian coast.

Check out the Old Point Loma lighthouse while you’re in the area, as it has now been converted into a museum full of historical artifacts! Take in the San Diego skyline as you explore the bay area. If you visit during the early morning, you’ll be able to see a colorful sunrise as the first rays of light hit the city skyline!

• Getting there –  Walk here from Point Loma

1.00 pm – San Diego State Historic Park & Old Town

The State Historic Park can be found in San Diego’s Old Town, and you’ll find it scattered with old buildings that date all the way back to the 19th century when settlers first built permanent residents in the US!

One of the oldest buildings you’ll find in the area is the Casa de Estudillo which was built in 1827 and is the oldest remaining Spanish architecture in the US.

The Park gives you interesting insights into the culture of the Spanish and Mexican settlers that soon developed into an American settlement.

There is constant activity in the park, that mimics the activity of centuries past. You’ll find plenty of burros to pet and shopkeepers to chat to, that will tell you an awful lot about the history of the area.

In the historic park, you’ll find shops, museums, and restaurants, all worth exploring! The historic Plaza also has a full schedule of events and celebratory occasions, so be sure to have a look at what’s going on at the historic park during your stay. You may have a little extra to add to your San Diego itinerary!

• How long should I stay here?
• Getting there –  By bus take the 84 until Rosecrans St & Canon St and change to the 28

3.00 pm – Coronado Beach

Pack a picnic and venture down to one of America’s most beautiful beaches ! The beach is long, flat and soft, giving visitors plenty of space to have fun on the beach without it getting too cramped.

The beach has a higher mica content than that of many others, giving the sand a wonderful shimmery effect.

The area has the largest pacific swells, however, it remains a very safe beach to swim and there is a whole team of lifeguards ready to save you if you run into any trouble!

Insider Tip: There are bikes to rent along the beachfront, so if you don’t feel like tanning in the sand, you can cycle along Ocean Boulevard and take in the pretty scenery. At the end of the beach, there are fire pits that you can rent for the evening and make smores until you simply can’t eat anymore.

• How long should I stay here?   120 minutes
• Getting there –  Take the Sante Green Line Metro to 12th Imperial and then the 901 bus until Orange Av.

Whether you’ll take part in these activities or not depends on how many days in San Diego you decide to stay. If you’re taking more than just a weekend trip to San Diego, you’ll need a few more activities to fill up your 3-day itinerary in San Diego! There is an abundance of day trips to take from San Diego , too!

1. Belmont Park

The amusement park was opened by John.D Spreckles in 1925, making the park almost 100 years old! Belmont Park has 12 rides, one of which is named the Giant Dipper. Over the years, this wooden ride has become a right of passage for children and teenagers throughout San Diego.

The rollercoaster has become a national historic landmark all on its own, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t many other great rides at the park!

Along with the other rides, comes a great deal of attractions, the most popular among these is the 18 hole mini-golf course which is lots of fun for the whole family. Although there are plenty of challenging holes, there’s also enough opportunity for a hole in one to make the course exciting!

There are 3 oceanfront eateries that you can visit during the course of your day visit. They serve incredible sit down meals, and give you the opportunity to order a beer or a cocktail to cool off from the heat of the day. There’s  also a brewery tour  if you want to have even more fun after the rollercoasters. ( Just be sure to do the tour after the rollercoasters, not before.)

If you’re not in the mood for a sit down meal (or your kids won’t allow it), then there are plenty of stalls that sell yummy on the go food, including a giant monster cone waffle ice cream.

• Cost:  Adult – USD $53 Child – USD $43
• How long should I stay here?  At least half a day
• Getting there –  Take a Uber or Lyft ride share

2. Children’s Pool Beach

The waves in San Diego are absolutely spectacular and are any surfer’s dream, however, the currents are strong and dangerous, so children are discouraged from swimming in these areas!

In 1931 Ellen Browning Scripps decided she would create a solution to the problem, and gift it to the children of the city. She commissioned a concrete wall to be built in the ocean, that would shield a small bay from the strong ocean currents.

This created the perfect environment for children to safely swim in the ocean!

What nobody bargained for is the fact the sea lions and seals would enjoy the bay just as much. From December to May every year they wallow in the bay and give birth to their pups, before moving on to another area! It’s advised that you don’t go swimming during this time, as the animals are very dangerous, especially when they’re protecting their young.

Going to see them from a distance is a great idea.  Seeing the seemingly lazy creatures  soaking up the sun is quite a sight to behold! Be sure to take your travel camera along to document the herd of seals and sea lions! If you don’t yet have the perfect travel camera, you can  browse our camera guide here .

• How long should I stay here?  A few hours
• Getting there –  Bus or ride share to Jolla

3. Liberty Public Market

The Liberty Public Market is a foodie destination of note! It’s an urban market that showcases some of the areas best wine, cheese, beer, fruit, veg, meat, fish, pastries, sauces, and arts and crafts.

There are plenty of prepared meals on sale too if you’re looking for a meal while you’re there. With a variety of pop-up eateries in the area, you’re sure to leave feeling fully satisfied!

If you love to explore indoor stalls, this is the perfect place for you to spend your 3rd day in San Diego. You’ll find a collection of jewelry, clothing and trinkets that are perfect to take home as souvenirs to your family and friends back home.

You’ll even find a store that does on the spot tech repairs, so if you happen to drop your phone during your holiday, they’re sure to fix it for you!

Visiting the market in the evening is also a great idea as the area turns into a hub for socializing and dining together as a community. Many people meet up with friends for an informal dinner and catch up, making this a great place to mingle with the locals and make a few friends.

4. Hotel del Coronado

The Hotel del Coronado is a massive hotel that has become renowned for its look and location, overlooking the Coronado beach. When the hotel was built back in 1888, there it was the largest resort hotel in the world! Unfortunately, it no longer holds that title, but it is still very impressive!

The hotel is known to be visited by the rich and famous, including many Hollywood stars! Every president since President Eisenhower has visited the hotel, making it a must-see during your travels to San Diego.

The hotel is so beautiful, that its iconic towers have appeared in as many as 12 films over the years, including  Some Like it Hot , which was released in 1959.

If you don’t want to tour the hotel from the inside, then head down to the beach for the perfect view of the hotel from the outside. We can almost guarantee you’ll recognize the Hotel del Coronado immediately from some movie or another!

If you  do tour the hotel , be sure to look out for celebrities, movie stars, or political legends that might be staying there during your visit.

5. Torrey Pines Gliderport

This is a spot with a magnificent view! Many people come here to sit and enjoy the ocean views and spend time in nature, but for those with an adventurous spirit, you’ll hardly be able to resist the temptation of taking off in tandem flight over the pacific ocean.

The area is famous as a site that hanggliders use to take off from the cliffs. They jump over the edge of the cliffs and soar high above the ocean!

You can either pick a bench and watch them as they do their thing, or join in the spectacular fun!

You can take a tandem flight in this area that allows you to experience the thrills of soaring through the air, without having to worry about the logistics of the flight. Your knowledgeable and experienced guide will handle the controls, while you take in the views!

If you’re not in the mood for an adrenaline rush, be sure to take a stroll along the cliff’s edge to take in the amazing views. There are plenty of benches along the way for you to stop off and relax for a while.

There is also a cliffside restaurant that provides amazing views and a delicious bite to eat as you take in all the action around you!

• Cost  – Free
• How long should I stay here?  2 or 3 hours to explore
• Getting there –  Rent a car or ride share it

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighborhood in San Diego:

Old Town is an area of San Diego that marks the birthplace of the state of California. It is the site of the first Spanish settlement in the early-1800s and today still retains much of its historic charms and architecture.

• Visit the Junipero Serra Museum to see exhibits and displays on the life in Old Town.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in Presidio Park
• Visit the Whaley House Museum, which is rumoured to be the most haunted house in America.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

San Diego’s climate is mild all year round, making it perfect for laying on the beach and touring the city any time of the year.

Peak season in San Diego is in the fall (September to November), this is when the days are warmer and nights are cooler. The temperatures are very consistent and there’s little chance of rain! You’ll also find there are plenty of activities around this time of year, especially outdoor film festivals that can be stacks of fun, as well as some of the must-see San Diego attractions.

During winter in San Diego (December – March), it’s not the ideal time to visit the beach, however, it never gets too cold! This is a great time to visit if you’re more interested in visiting the San Diego landmarks or enjoying their famous balloon festival.

Here’s what you can expect from San Diego each month of the year!

If you want to plan a trip to San Diego, you’re going to need to know how to navigate the city. Here are some of the easiest and best ways to get around the city!

The coaster is a train that leaves from downtown San Diego and takes its passengers to the communities on the outskirts of the city. If you’re looking to adventure outside of the hustle and bustle of the city, this is a great transportation option.

The Coronado Ferry and water taxis can take you around San Diego Bay and transport you between Broadway Pier and the Convention Center. They’re fairly cheap and provide wonderful sightseeing opportunities along the way.

Trolleys run throughout the downtown area, transporting you to locations across the city. This is the perfect form of transport for navigating the city without the hassle of dealing with traffic.

Renting a bicycle is also a great option when you’re traveling short distances as the streets are very cyclist-friendly. Many roads have cycling lanes that make navigating the streets very easy! You’ll also get the chance to see a lot more of the city while pedaling around.

San Diego is a very safe city, and leaves little for you to worry about during your 2 perfect days in San Diego. However, problems may arise where you least expect them, so here are some things you must watch out for to make sure your San Diego itinerary doesn’t get compromised during your trip!

While you’re touring San Diego, you’re sure to pay a visit to the beach at least once or twice during your vacation. Although the San Diego beaches are beautiful and the weather is just right for swimming, you do need to be aware of the strong rip tides that plague the coastline.

Backwash is also a problem in the La Jolla area and is caused when big waves hit the harsh cliffs that overlook the beach. Be sure that you check for signs, as many of the beaches have caution signs that warn you not to swim where it is too dangerous! Also, make sure there is always someone watching you from the beach that can warn authorities if you’re being swept out.

If you decide to rent a car, be aware that San Diego has one of the biggest crossings in the country and the exits can be very confusing. It’s important to plan our route before you head out, as you’ll need to be aware of which lane you should be traveling in to take the right exit.

It’s often advised to take public transport instead of renting a car in San Diego, as the locals know the logistics of traveling the city better than any tourist could!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for San Diego

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their San Diego itinerary.

How many days you need in San Diego?

Exploring San Diego within 3 days is definitely possible, but you will have to plan ahead so you can use your time efficiently. Having an extra day to chill or change plans spontaneoulsy will make your itinerary a lot more relaxed.

What is there to do in San Diego?

There are so many attractions in San Diego that it’s hard to choose what to do. Check out Klook or Airbnb experiences for the best activities, tours and tickets.

What are the most popular attractions in San Diego?

The Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are the most popular attractions in San Diego. However, we’d also recommend checking out the Coronado Beach, one of America’s most beautiful beaches.

What needs to be on a San Diego itinerary for couples?

Couples will absolutely love these attractions in San Diego: – Coronado Beach – Balboa Park – Embarcadero Harbor

If you’re a first time visitor to this awesome city, be prepared for the time of your life! Get ready for the best 2 days in San Diego that you’ll ever have!

No matter what your interests are, there’s sure to be a few amazing activities to satisfy your thirst for adventure. The city offers everything from surfing and lazing on the beach, to historic tours that are sure to blow your mind.

With such a rich and long history, the city really does have more to offer than many of its surrounding cities. Being so close to the border, it’s very easy to take a day-trip from San Diego into Mexico if you’d like to experience even more culture!

Be sure to fill your San Diego itinerary with some of these exciting activities to be sure you’re making the most of your holiday!

San Diego awaits you! It’s time you start creating your very own San Diego itinerary!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Art Patterson

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San Diego Itinerary Ideas from 1 to 3 Days (+ Maps & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 31, 2023

Are you planning a trip to San Diego in California and looking for ideas on what to see and do in San Diego in 1, 2, or 3 days ? In this article, we share the best San Diego itinerary suggestions for up to three days. Find out!

With popular song titles like Hotel California, California Dreamin’, California Love, and Californication , perhaps you’re wondering why so much hype surrounds the beautiful U.S. state of California? It’s such a beautiful state and San Diego is probably the best of California in one place. A city you have to see!

So in this post, we cover the best things to see and do in San Diego, California in one to three days and show you just how amazing this area is. 

Whether you have just one, two or three days in San Diego, our suggestions and practical tips will help you get the most of your trip, no matter how much time you have.

Below you can find detailed day to day itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 days in San Diego.  I also included a  map  for each itinerary. That way you have a better idea of where all those places are. Of course, you don’t have to follow these itineraries precisely, but it gives you a good idea of the main landmarks of the city and surroundings, and the time you need to see them.

Good to know: While you can see the best of the city of San Diego in one day, the surrounding communities of La Jolla, Encinitas, Del Mar, and Carlsbad should not be missed.  Depending on your interests, I recommend a minimum of three days in the area. But if you really want to see all the best places, you can spend five days or even more exploring the San Diego area.

San Diego Itinerary Suggestions – Overview:

• Introduction
• Best time to visit

1 day in San Diego

• 2 days in San Diego
• 3 days in San Diego
• Tips for a longer San Diego vacation
• Where to stay

Visiting San Diego – Introduction

San Diego is a coastal city located on the Pacific Ocean in Southern California. It’s known for its year-round idyllic climate, cultural parks, and 70 miles of pristine beaches.  Within its borders, San Diego county actually encompasses 18 other cities and several other charming coastal communities.  

When people speak of “San Diego” they are typically referring to the entire area that includes San Diego’s downtown historic Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and Little Italy, as well as La Jolla, Del Mar, Encinitas, and Carlsbad, just to name a few.

With booming art and culinary scene, loads of family-friendly attractions, and year-round outdoor recreation, it is no wonder that San Diego appeals to guests of all ages from around the world.

When to visit

June, July, and August are peak tourism months in San Diego. Prices are high and all the attractions are the busiest. 

During the spring months of March-May, temperatures are mild and there are relatively fewer crowds. San Diego is one of the best USA destinations to visit for spring break ! 

The fall months of September-November also boast of pleasant temperatures. Many festivals are held throughout the city during this time and it’s a great time to be here. 

Budget travelers can get the best hotel rates during the winter months between December and February.

The best time to visit San Diego is in the shoulder season, March-April and September-November. The weather is nice and the temperatures are mild, it’s not as busy as in the summer, and it’s a bit cheaper than in the high season.

San Diego Itinerary Ideas

Below you can find suggested San Diego itineraries for one to three days. This article has been written by our guest writer Jen, who lives in the US and has visited San Diego with her family multiple times. All of these itineraries and suggestions are therefore based on her personal experience and are filled with some insider tips for visiting San Diego for the first time. 

No two trips will be exactly the same, of course, so use these itinerary suggestions as a guideline. You’ll need to adjust your San Diego itinerary as needed to account for the weather, how much time you spend at each landmark, and the varying interests of your group or family members.

The suggested itineraries will give you a good idea of the places that are worthwhile visiting, approximately how much time you need to see them, and how to best plan your own San Diego itinerary.

Don’t try to ‘see it all’ on a short trip to San Diego. If you like to travel deeper, it’s better to visit fewer places and take your time to enjoy the amazing sights and the scenery, instead of rushing from one place to the other and ticking the boxes. On the other hand, if you are visiting San Diego for the first time and really want to see it all, these itinerary suggestions will show you how it can be done.

TIP: If you are planning to visit some of the San Diego attractions or do any tours or organized actvities, it’s really worthwhile getting the Go San Diego Card . It includes free entrance to many top attractions in San Diego area, as well as a huge choice of activities like bike and kayak tours, whale watching, and many more.

We have two suggested itineraries on how to spend one day in San Diego : one if you have a car and want to use it and the other one – without a car. Take a look!

TIP: We recommend leaving the car at the car parking and exploring San Diego city itself without a car!

San Diego 1 Day Itinerary by Car

If you only have one day in San Diego and you want to use a car , I suggest that you drive downtown San Diego and visit at least two of its iconic neighborhoods. Little Italy, Cortez Hill, Columbia, Core-Columbia, Gaslamp Quarter, East Village, Marina, and Embarcadero (the waterfront boardwalk) all have their own unique culture, architecture, and flair.  

My three favorites are Core-Columbia , the waterfront area that is home to the USS Midway Naval Aircraft carrier museum , and the Gaslamp Quarter and Marina District . Gaslamp Quarter features historic Victorian buildings. Marina District encompasses the nautical and charming Seaport Village, a 14-acre waterfront shopping, dining, and entertainment destination.  

The USS Midway, Gaslamp Quarter, and Seaport Village are all within a mile of each other (so you can easily walk between them, which is the best way to explore).  The Gaslamp Quarter is all about the architectural charm that can be felt simply by walking around the neighborhood. The electric versions of the old gaslamps that gave the street its name are fun to see.

Suggested morning itinerary: Visit Gaslamp and Core Columbia . You can park at the USS Midway and walk to those parts of the city. If you are into history and exhibits, you could probably spend up to 3 hours at the USS Midway Museum . However, you can also visit the ship in just 1-1,5 hours as well.

From there walk to Seaport , which is just a few short blocks from the USS Midway. If visiting San Diego with kids, don’t miss the Seaport Village Carousel and get some delicious ice cream there. You can do all of this before lunch.

TIP: Because the USS Midway Museum is one of the most popular San Diego attractions, we recommend getting skip-the-line tickets in advance .

Before lunchtime, drive across the Coronado Bridge (a sight in itself) that connects downtown San Diego to Coronado Island .  This immensely popular island is home to the famous red-roofed Hotel Del Coronado . The white sandy beaches of Coronado Island rank in the “Top 10” of the entire U.S. 

Though you can easily spend 1 or 2 days on Coronado Island alone, having just one day in San Diego means that you’ll have to do with just 3 to 4 hours. Keep in mind that it’s is extremely difficult to find parking on the island.

If parking lots by the beach are full, most visitors end up parking on residential streets located throughout the island (which is allowed at the time of writing).  Alternatively, leave your car in the city center and take a ferry.

I recommend having lunch on the terrace of Hotel Del Coronado or at one of the premier waterfront restaurants in the Ferry Landing Marketplace .  This island is simply not to be missed!

Depending on your interests, head back over the bridge and spend the rest of the afternoon at either Balboa Park (an urban cultural park home to 15 museums), the world-famous San Diego Zoo , or the kids’ favorite, SeaWorld San Diego .

However, if you have just one day in San Diego, it’s probably not worth getting expensive tickets to the zoo or SeaWorld and only spending a few hours there. Balboa Park is probably a better choice for a short visit.

Lastly, finish off your day in San Diego by dipping your toes into the ocean and watching the best San Diego sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park . 

To help you plan your day in San Diego, I made a map indicating all the places mentioned in this 1-day itinerary.

Take a look below!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

San Diego 1 day Itinerary without a Car

My recommendation for visiting San Diego in 1 day without a car is by joining an organized day tour. My absolute favorite tour is the San Diego Hop-on-Hop-off Old Town Trolley Tour . 

With 10 different stops on its route among the most popular areas of downtown San Diego (including a ride across the bridge to Coronado), riders have unlimited ‘on and off’ privileges for the entire day.  The ride is fully narrated between stops and is entirely family-friendly.  

Needless to say, this is a much more relaxed way to see the best of San Diego in one day without having to worry about navigating the busy traffic or looking for where to park your car at each of the attractions.

Please take a look at the itinerary suggestions above for the best places to see on your hop-on hop-off tour. Don’t miss the USS Midway Museum and make sure to get your skip-the-line tickets in advance.

Our tip (based on our experience): Take the hop-on-hop-off trolley . Enjoy someone else doing the driving for you and not having to worry about parking. Start in Old Town and stop at the USS Midway (where you can take a short harbor cruise – see further), Hotel Del Coronado, and Balboa Park. These stops will give you a taste of everything!

This is by far our favorite way to see the best of San Diego in one day. It’s great for kids too.

TIP: Make the most of your day in San Diego by taking a harbor cruise. It runs from a pier near the MSS Midway ship, so it’s very easy to incorporate this into your one day San Diego itinerary. You can choose between the South Harbor or North Harbor tours (each takes 1 hour), or do a combination of both in 2 hours. It’s one of the most popular things to do in San Diego and a great way to see a lot in a short time. You can check availability and book your San Diego harbor cruise here .

Practical information:  There is ample parking in downtown San Diego, and rates can vary from $8-$36 dollars a day. It might pay off to research and reserve your parking online in advance.

To help you plan your day in San Diego without a car, I made a map indicating all the places mentioned in the itinerary above. Take a look below!

2 Days in San Diego

If you have two days in San Diego, in addition to visiting all the best places in the downtown area, you should try to explore some of San Diego’s coastline and the city’s famous family-friendly attractions. Below is a suggested 2-day San Diego itinerary . Take a look!

Start the day by visiting the San Diego Zoo first thing in the morning. Make sure to book skip-the-line tickets in order to make the most of your time. Alternatively, visit the museums of Balboa Park . You could spend the whole day at the San Diego zoo alone, but since your time is limited, I’d allocate 3-4 hours to it.

After that, head to downtown San Diego and explore two or three of its neighborhoods by foot. You can have a late lunch in Seaport Village and then board the San Diego Coronado Ferry (adjacent to the cruise ship terminal) to spend the rest of the day on Coronado Island .  

In the afternoon, relax on Coronado Beach , tour the Hotel Del Coronado , rent a bike or a golf cart to explore the island, and stroll among the shops on Orange Avenue.  Wind down by watching a beautiful sunset here.

Practical Information:  The San Diego Coronado Ferry runs every hour on the hour from 9 AM to 9 PM (9 AM to 10 PM, Friday and Saturday) between Broadway Pier and Coronado. It costs just $5 one-way. This is a popular means of transportation to and from the island.

TIP: I realize that this itinerary is rather busy for one day. It’s really meant for those who want to maximize their short time in San Diego area to the fullest. So – depending on your interests – you could potentially skip the zoo or go there the next day, instead of visiting SeaWorld.

If you want to take it easier, follow our suggested one-day itinerary without a car (see above).

In the morning, visit SeaWorld San Diego to get up-close-and-personal with whales, walruses, and dolphins.

If you haven’t visited the zoo on the previous day, you could do that instead. 

Both these places require a full day to properly explore, but if your time in San Diego is limited, you can see at least some of the highlights in half a day.

After lunch, travel 20 miles north of Downtown San Diego to the seaside village of La Jolla . 

Known as the “Rodeo Drive” of San Diego, La Jolla is home to world-class shopping and restaurants. But it has so much more to offer than that! When visiting La Jolla for a short time, don’t miss its famous resident population of wild seals and sea lions. 

Park on La Jolla Coast Boulevard and spend some time admiring the seals in the Children’s Pool area at Casa Beach. Dozens of seals and sea lions can be found lounging t ton this small sand beach.

TIP: One of the nicest things to do in La Jolla is kayak the sea caves of La Jolla Cove or dive/snorkel at La Jolla Underwater Park . We recommend joining this highly-rated kayak tour in the late afternoon of the second day of your 2-day San Diego itinerary.

Finish off the day by enjoying the marine life at Birch Aquarium and/or take a leisurely hike to see a magical sunset at Torrey Pines State Reserve .

Below is a map indicating all the places mentioned in this 2 days San Diego itinerary.

3 Days in San Diego

Below is our suggested itinerary for what to see and do in San Diego in three days.

Visit the San Diego Zoo, Downtown San Diego, and Coronado Island (see day 1 in the two-day itinerary above).

Same as the second day of the 2-day itinerary, except take it easier. If there are any activities that you can’t get done this day, move them to the next one.

Both the La Jolla sea lions and the breathtaking skyline views of the Pacific Ocean from Torrey Pines State Reserve are not to be missed. However, if you want to take your time and really enjoy both, you might run out of time. In that case, you could visit either La Jolla seals or Torrey Pines State Reserve on this day. Leave the other one for the 3rd day of this itinerary.

Start your day with La Jolla kayaking or a hike at Torrey Pines State Reserve, if not done the previous day.

Continue your travels by driving Historic Highway 101 from La Jolla to Oceanside, California. Along with taking in the picturesque scenery, stop in Del Mar to see the famous Del Mar Racetrack. You can also experience some more upscale shopping at the Del Mar Plaza.

Finally, end your 3 days in the San Diego area by spending the afternoon in the city of Carlsbad .  Carlsbad has so much to offer that you can easily spend three days here alone. However, for this itinerary, you’ll need to narrow down your options. Take a look at the possibilities below!

The kids’ choice will be Legoland California theme park, water park, and SeaLife Aquarium . Alternatively, you can play golf, visit the Museum of Making Music or simply relax on Tamarack Beach .

Another really nice thing to do in Carlsbad is to take a local food tour . Alternatively, stop at Carlsbad’s Pizza Port Brewery and Restaurant, a ‘laid back California feel’ eatery with memorable food, hospitality, and ambiance.

TIP: If you are visiting the San Diego area in spring (March to May), don’t miss Carlsbad Flower Fields.

Below you can see the map indicating all the places mentioned in this San Diego itinerary for three days.

TIP: The earlier mentioned Go San Diego Card is really worthwhile if you have three or more days in San Diego. In addition to tens of top attractions and activities, a 3, 5, or 7-day card includes one of the following premium options: day admission to SeaWorld, speedboat adventures, or two-day hop-on / hop-off trolley. Check it out if visiting San Diego for three days or longer.

What to See and Do in San Diego If You Have More Time

If you have more than 3 days in San Diego, I suggest seeing the same places mentioned above, but at a much slower pace. If you have enough time, I recommend allocating an entire day for places such as SeaWorld, San Diego Zoo, Legoland California, and the Hop-on-Hop-Off Trolley Tour.

If you are planning a longer San Diego vacation, you can also play golf, surf, participate in water sports or spend days at one or more of San Diego’s amazing beaches (and there are many!).  Our favorites are Mission Beach along with adjoining Belmont Park , or Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas, CA. Here you can find more suggestions for the best beaches in San Diego for families .

The Point Loma tide pools , whale watching , taking a harbor cruise , visiting Cabrillo National Monument , and San Diego Zoo Safari Park are just a few other examples of other things to see and do in San Diego. 

To sum up, yes, you can see the main highlights in San Diego in one day. And yes, you can get a taste of the surrounding areas in another day or two. However, you can also spend a week in San Diego and never get bored.

I’m sure that if you visit San Diego for just a few days, you’ll be planning a future longer trip before you even leave.

Where to Stay When Visiting San Diego

Because all of San Diego county’s many attractions are relatively close to each other, you can choose to stay in one place for the entire duration of your trip to San Diego. 

For shorter trips of just 1 or 2 days in San Diego, staying in the downtown area is the best choice. Staying in San Diego downtown gives you quick and easy access to all local areas of interest.

There are many really nice hotels in San Diego downtown area and also quite a lot of options for short-term rental accommodations .

Here are some recommended hotels in the city center:

• $$$$ San Diego Marriott Marquis and Marina .
• $$$ Hotel Indigo San Diego (Gaslamp Quarter).
• $$ Comfort Inn Gaslamp Convention Center or Best Western Plus Bayside Inn .

In general, the further you get away from downtown San Diego, the cheaper your accommodations will be. This rule breaks down when you get to La Jolla, which is lovely but pricey.

However, La Jolla has probably the very best location for a San Diego vacation of 3 days and more . Just as everywhere, there are some really expensive hotels, but also some budget-friendly lodging options in La Jolla. So I’d definitely check what’s available before deciding where to stay in San Diego. Here you can check availability and prices for La Jolla accommodation .

For those who are on a lower budget and are spending more than three days in San Diego area , we recommend staying in a central location like Encinitas or Del Mar.

We love staying in Encinitas – there are some really nice holiday homes available, which is perfect for families with kids. Encinitas is a bit of a ride from San Diego, but it’s quite centrally located for exploring the area. So for example, for this 3 day San Diego itinerary it would mean going south one day, staying in the middle the other day, and north the next day.  You can use a rental car to go back and forth between cities and attractions.

We recommend planning at least 3 days for San Diego. This will allow you to explore the city center, visit one or two theme parks, and potentially also catch a glimpse of the beautiful coastal areas nearby. However, if you have more time, you can easily fill 5-7 days in San Diego and you’ll find plenty to do.

The best time to visit San Diego is in the spring and in the fall (March-May and September-November). The weather is pleasant, it’s not as busy as in the peak summer months, and you can find better deals for accommodations.

If you are in San Diego for just 1 or 2 days and want to see the main landmarks, staying in the downtown area is the best choice. If you are spending a longer vacation in San Diego, it’s better to stay at one of the beach areas northwest of the city, such as La Jolla or Pacific Beach. For more budget-friendly options, check out Encinitas or Del Mar.

You don’t need a car for visiting the main attractions in San Diego city. However, if you are in San Diego for a few days and are planning to explore the areas outside the city center and its wide surroundings, we recommend renting a car. We use and recommend the RentalCars website to find the best deals for your rental car.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Los Angeles Itinerary for 3 Days

You may also like these guides to some of our favorite places in the U.S.:

• Arizona: Best Places to See in Arizona & Phoenix-Scottsdale Itinerary
• Las Vegas: Tips for Visiting Las Vegas & Best Things to Do in Las Vegas  & Best Day Trips from Las Vegas
• Yellowstone:  Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park
• Mt Rushmore:  Complete Guide to Visiting Mount Rushmore
• Grand Canyon:  Grand Canyon in 1 Day & 2-days Itinerary for Grand Canyon & Antelope Canyon
• Utah:   Best Things to do in Moab
• Chicago:  2 Days in Chicago & Chicago Travel Tips
• NYC: 1 Day in New York City
• Philadelphia: 1 Day in Philadelphia
• NP:  Amazing Lesser-known National Parks in the United States

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

Image credits: Jon Bilous/Shutterstock.com//Gloria V Moeller/Shutterstock.com// Dancestrokes/Shutterstock.com// f11photo/Shutterstock.com// Hit1912/Shutterstock.com// Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com// Sherry V Smith/Shutterstock.com// Benny Marty/Shutterstock.com// Wang Sing/Shutterstock.com// Alexandre Olive/Shutterstock.com// Manuela Durson/Shutterstock.com//James Kirkikis/Shutterstock.com// Roka/Shutterstock.com// f8grapher/Shutterstock.com//

Looking for more travel inspiration? Take a look at our guide to the best National Parks in the United States that should be on every bucket list.

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Tuesday 8th of October 2019

If you’re in La Jolla on a Sunday, they have a wonderful Farmer’s Market from 9:00 - 1:00 at the La Jolla Elementary School.

Friday 11th of October 2019

Thanks for sharing this, Laurel.

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Home > United States > 31 Reasons To Visit San Diego: Why You Should Visit San Diego

31 Reasons To Visit San Diego: Why You Should Visit San Diego

By Dymphe / February 4, 2023

The reasons to visit San Diego are incredible. If you're curious about why you should visit San Diego, there's a lot to know!

San Diego is a lovely city to visit in the United States . You find this city in the state of California. The city is home to many great sights, beautiful beaches, and more.

If you're ever wondering if San Diego is worth visiting, it definitely is! And there are lots of reasons for that.

For example, the city is very photogenic. If you love photography, this is definitely why you should visit San Diego. There are gorgeous places everywhere, such as beaches and pretty cafes.

Besides that, you can do a scenic train ride to LA from San Diego. This is so much fun and such a wonderful experience!

But there's much more. One of the most important reasons to visit San Diego is the weather. The weather is comfortable all year round, making it a lovely place every season.

Also, those who love sports will love the city too. There are many sports teams and events in the city. And if you like luxury, you'll love all the wonderful luxury hotels in San Diego!

Besides that, there are many other lovely reasons why it's an amazing place for your next trip!

Table of Contents

1. San Diego is Very Photogenic: Great Reason To Visit San Diego If You Like Taking Pictures

One of the best reasons to visit San Diego is that it is a very photogenic city.

Wherever you'e going there, you'll be able to see beautiful places.

If you like photography, that's definitely why you should visit San Diego! There are so many places that are wonderful for taking photos!

But even if you don't want to take photos, it is great that the city is so photogenic. It is amazing to go for a walk in the city and see beautiful things everywhere!

For example, you can find beautiful beaches in the city, such as Mission Beach. The beaches are so beautiful!

Also, you can find street art, including beautiful murals in the city. This often features beautiful colors.

Besides that, the large Balboa Park is very photogenic. And going here is great if you like taking photos of nature and old architecture.

Belmont Park is another very photogenic place in San Diego. You can capture all kinds of rides when you go here.

Also, the architecture in all areas of the city is wonderful to capture.

And what's great about this as well is that it makes going for a walk so much more fun! When you go for a walk, you stumble upon the loveliest spots.

2. San Diego Has a Lot of Amazing Luxurious Hotels

Another one of the reasons to visit San Diego is the luxurious hotels that you can find there.

There are so many hotels where you can have a wonderful stay.

These hotels all feature very comfortable and spacious rooms.

And besides that, many hotels have large swimming pools with palm trees next to them! This is wonderful about the city.

Also, you can find many hotels in this city that have a view of the ocean. This is very special to see when you are staying in the city. And this view is definitely also why you should visit San Diego!

3. You Can Do a Scenic Train Ride To Los Angeles

When you are in there, you could stay in the city as there is a lot to do and see and I'm sure you'll have an amazing time.

But, you could also go to a different city for a day trip and have even more fun.

A city that you have to visit is Los Angeles. This is the second-largest city in the United States, and it is very close to San Diego.

What's great is that you can do a train ride to Los Angeles. And this train journey goes along the ocean, which is amazing. While riding the train, you can look at the ocean, which is very beautiful to see!

Being able to do this train ride is definitely why you should visit San Diego! It is such a special experience. For about 3 hours, you'll have one of the best train experiences there is!

Los Angeles has a lot of things to do and see that are great.

For example, you can go to Venice Beach and have a relaxing day at this famous beach.

Also, you can see the Hollywood Sign and walk at Hollywood Boulevard.

Or you can take in amazing views from one of the viewpoints in LA.

There are so many reasons to visit San Diego, and being able to do a day trip to LA is one of them for sure!

4. The Weather is Comfortable All Year Round: Perfect Reason To Visit San Diego If You Love Sunny Days

Here's why you should visit San Diego too! The city is amazing because of the weather that is comfortable all year round.

Whenever you want to go to the city, the weather will be great.

It almost never rains there. And the average temperature stays about the same throughout the year.

The warmest month is August when it gets about 77°F. And the coolest month of the year is January. During this month, the temperature is about 66°F, which is also great!

This comfortable temperature makes exploring the city a pleasant experience whenever you visit. And that's also one of the reasons to visit San Diego, especially if you don't want to go here during the summer.

5. There’s a Gorgeous Flowers Field Close to San Diego

When you are picturing San Diego, you likely don't think of beautiful fields of flowers. But these flower fields are definitely why you should visit San Diego.

You can find beautiful flower fields in a city that is very close to San Diego: Carlsbad.

In Carlsbad, you can find The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch .

At this place, you can find beautiful gardens with all kinds of colorful flowers. I love how many colors of flowers there are at this place.

You can visit the flower fields in spring. So if you like seeing flowers, that's one of the reasons to visit San Diego in spring!

It is great to see these flowers. And if you like photography, you can also go here for taking photos!

6. The City is Close To Mexico

The city is close to Mexico which is amazing.

The nearest Mexican city is Tijuana, which is a lovely city.

If you want to experience what Mexico is like, you can do a tour during which you go there.

During such a tour, you can experience Mexican food, culture, architecture, and more. It is a great way to get to know the country.

And because the city is so close, doing a day trip is very easy to do with a tour.

7. You Can See Historic Ships: Interesting Reason To Visit San Diego if You Want To Learn About Ships

If you like seeing historic ships, that's also one of the reasons to visit San Diego.

That's because you can find the San Diego Maritime Museum here.

This is a museum where you can learn about ships and maritime history.

At the museum, you can see a lot of historic vessels that are lovely to see!

There are military vessels, ships used for trading, and passenger's vessels. All are very interesting to see which is why you should visit San Diego if you want to learn something!

8. San Diego Has Many Sports Teams and Events

If you like sports, that's also why you should visit San Diego. And this is especially so if you like a large variety of sports.

That's because you can find many different professional sports teams in the city.

If you are into baseball, you can see a game of the San Diego Padres. And doing so is a lot of fun. These games take place at Petco Park that is a great baseball park with views of the city.

Furthermore, the San Diego Legion competes in the Major League Rugby. There is a team that competes in the National Lacrosse League. And there are many other professional sports teams.

Attending the games of these teams is a lot of fun, and it makes the city a great place for a trip if you like sports. Also, what's great is that you can discover new sports you aren't very familiar with.

9. Little Italy is a Great Place for Delicious Food

If you like food, you'll love the city too. And one of the best places for that is Little Italy.

This is a popular neighborhood in the city that is wonderful to visit when you are going to the city.

In this area of the city, you can find a lot of Italian restaurants where you can get delicious Italian food.

Also, there are many art galleries in Little Gallery. So if you like art or Italian food, this area of the city makes the whole city great to visit.

Moreover, what's great about this area is that many festivals and events take place here! So if you like that, Little Italy is one of the most amazing reasons to visit San Diego.

10. San Diego is Great if You Love Coffee: Perfect Reason To Visit San Diego For Those Who Love Coffee

There are many great coffee shops in this city. So if you like coffee, that's also why you should visit San Diego.

Many of these coffee shops feature beautiful interiors. For example, there are coffee shops that feature a lot of pink, which is beautiful.

Also, there are lots of coffee shops where you can have specialty coffee. This is great if you are a coffee lover.

What's great is that you can find these coffee shops everywhere. So if you are in the city, there is likely a great one for you to discover nearby! This is one of the most amazing reasons to visit San Diego for coffee lovers.

11. There is an Amazing Beachfront Amusement Park

One of the best sights in the city is Belmont Park .

Belmont Park is a lovely amusement park that you can find next to Mission Beach. This unique place makes the park amazing to see.

It is a place where you can have a lot of fun as there are lots of rides and attractions. And after visiting this place, you can go to the beach or you can walk at the Mission Beach Boardwalk.

12. You Can Go To the Exciting Balboa Park

Balboa Park is an amazing park that you should definitely visit when you are in the city. This park alone is one of the reasons to visit San Diego.

This is not a normal park that you can find in every city.

This is a park with a lot of things to do and to do.

Of course, you can a lot of beautiful nature in the park. There are palm trees, fields of grass, and many different gardens.

For example, you can go to the Japanese Friendship Garden. This is a beautiful garden that incorporates all kinds of Japanese garden elements. Also, the Desert Garden is wonderful to visit. And you should definitely see the Botanical Building when you are in the park.

Besides these gardens, you can find many other interesting sights in the park.

For example, there are many museums here.

One of these museums is the San Diego Museum of Art. This is an art museum with a wide variety of art and a great collection of Spanish art.

Also, the San Diego Natural History Museum is an interesting place if you want to learn new things!

Moreover, the Spanish Village Art Center is a lovely place focused on art and crafts. You can see, buy, and make art and crafts here.

The park is also home to several theaters and other venues where you can attend shows. So if you like theaters, this is also why you should visit San Diego.

And there are many places for playing sports.

There is so much to do at this wonderful park!

13. You Can Learn a Lot at the Museum of San Diego: Nice Reason To Visit San Diego If You Want To Learn Something

Another one of the reasons to visit San Diego is that you can find a lot of museums in the city.

All these museums are great places for learning new things or seeing art.

As you saw above, many of these museums are at Balboa Park. For example, the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum are there.

Another great museum in the city is the USS Midway Museum, which is a maritime museum. And the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is great if you like contemporary art.

14. You Can Have Food and Drinks with a View at Various Places in San Diego

All throughout the city, you can find various rooftop restaurants and bars.

One of the best of these is the Level 9 Rooftop Bar.

At these places, you can have food and drinks with a lovely view.

And the view of the city is incredible. Often, you can see the ocean when relaxing here. Or you can see the skyscrapers of the city, which is great as well!

If you want to have food and drinks in a unique and beautiful setting, this is also why you should visit San Diego!

15. The Beaches of San Diego Are Wonderful

If you are looking for a city with great beaches, this city is great.

There are many wonderful beaches in this Californian city. And these beaches are great to see!

One of the best beaches is Mission Beach. This is a lovely beach in the northern part of the city.

You can find the Mission Beach Boardwalk here as well, where you can find many restaurants and shops. This makes going here a lot of fun. Moreover, you can find the amusement park Belmont Park next to the beach.

Other great beaches to see are Pacific Beach and the beach at La Jolla Cove!

So if you want to see gorgeous beaches, that's one of the best reasons to visit San Diego.

16. There is a Lot of Street Art: Nice Reason To Visit San Diego For Those Who Love Street Art

Do you like street art? If so, that's another one of the reasons to visit San Diego! In fact, it's one of the best cities in the United States for street art.

One of the best areas for this is North Park, which is a lovely arts district in the city.

You can find there many beautiful murals. These are interesting and beautiful to see. Also, some of them are great for taking photos. For example, there is a mural that says "Greetings from San Diego" and looks like a postcard.

This makes the city very beautiful which is definitely why you should visit San Diego.

17. There are Many Mexican Restaurants in San Diego

Because San Diego lies close to Mexico, there are a lot of Mexican influences in the city.

One of these influences is that of the food scene.

There are lots of great restaurants in the city. For example, Little Italy is great if you like Italian food.

But there is one type of food that you can find at various places, and that is Mexican food.

There are so many restaurants that serve delicious Mexican food. You can have delicious tacos, enchiladas, and much more everywhere!

So if you love delicious food, this is incredible.

18. The Gaslamp Quarter is Great For Shopping

There are many great areas that are worth visiting. One of the best areas in the city that you have to visit is Gaslamp Quarter. Gaslamp Quarter is also why you should visit San Diego.

This is a neighborhood in the city center.

This is a fun area where you can find a lot of things to do and see. Also, the architecture of this area of the city is lovely.

There are a lot of streets that are perfect for shopping! You can find many boutique shops in the Gaslamp Quarter. And this architecture makes shopping here a lot more fun! So if you love shopping, this is one of the best reasons to visit San Diego.

19. There are Many Historic Theaters in the City

If you like theaters that's also one of the reasons to visit San Diego.

That's because you can find a lot of historic theaters in the city.

One of the best theaters in the city is the Balboa Theatre.

This is a beautiful historic movie theater that you can find in the city center. Nowadays, it is a performing arts venue where you can various shows. The design of the theater is very beautiful to see!

Another great theater is the Spreckels Theatre. This is a historic theater too, and the auditorium of this theater is very large. There are all kinds of beautiful decorations inside and outside of the building.

Besides that, you find many other theaters in the city.

20. You Can Visit the Trendy East Village Neighborhood

East Village SD is a wonderful neighborhood.

It is a very trendy one and this area is also why you should visit San Diego.

You can find a lot of great cafes, bars, and places with live music in this part of the city.

Besides that, there are many contemporary art galleries and boutique shops.

What's great as well is that you have various places in this neighborhood where you can find food trucks.

What makes this neighborhood great as well is the architecture. You can find both modern, as well as historic architecture here. This combination is wonderful to see!

21. It is a Great City if You Like Modern Architecture: Nice Reason To Visit San Diego If You Love Architecture

If you love modern architecture, that's also why you should visit San Diego.

Spread throughout the city, you can find examples of interesting modern architecture.

These buildings often feature a lot of glass and concrete. And these buildings feature a lot of lines.

One of the most unique buildings is the Geisel Library. This building is so unique and definitely one of the reasons to visit San Diego!

This building is a great example of brutalist architecture.

Another great building to see if you like this architecture is the Salk Institute.

22. San Diego has an International Airport So You Can Visit It From Many Places

This is one of the reasons to visit San Diego if you live outside of the United States.

If that's the case, it is very easy to visit the city. That's because there is an international airport in San Diego.

This means that it is very easy to get to this city from other countries!

For example, if you live in Canada and want to visit this wonderful city, this is very easy! Also, it is perfect for people traveling from Europe.

This airport also makes this place great as a starting point for further travel in the United States.

You can fly to the city, spend some days in the city, and then go to other places in the USA, such as Los Angeles.

23. You Can Go to La Jolla Cove

You can go to La Jolla Cove when you're in the city which is also why you should visit San Diego!

This is a beautiful cove and beach that you have to visit when going to the city.

It is perfect if you want to see a beautiful beach. There are lovely cliffs that surround this beach, which makes for a beautiful scene!

What's great as well is that you can watch the sunset when you are at La Jolla Cove. It is a very popular place for this.

Besides that, there are many restaurants that surround La Jolla Cove. From many of these restaurants, you have a beautiful view of the ocean!

24. You Can Learn a Lot About History in San Diego

A lot happened in the past in the city. For about 13000 years, people are living in the area of the city. Later on, the Spanish and Mexican ruled over the settlement at this place. Later, it became part of the United States.

Nowadays, this city is one of the largest cities in the United States.

It is great to learn about the history of the city. In fact, doing so is one of the reasons to visit San Diego.

You have a lot of places where you can learn about the city's history.

One of the best places for this is the San Diego History Center . This is a museum that you can find in Balboa Park. Through various exhibits, this place tells the story of the city, which is interesting!

Besides that, there are various monuments and historic buildings. For example, the Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá is such a place.

25. There Are Great Shopping Centers in the City: Nice Reason To Visit San Diego For Those Who Want To Shop

If you like shopping, that's also why you should visit San Diego.

That's because you can find a lot of different shopping centers in the city.

For example, you can go to Seaport Village if you want to shop. You can find a lot of shops here, so you can shop here for hours. Also, there are restaurants at this place.

Westfield Mission Valley is another great place for shopping.

And if you are looking for a place where you can get a new outfit, Fashion Valley is a great shopping mall to visit!

Because there are so many shopping malls in the city, you'll definitely find what you are looking for!

Also, what's great is that each mall is different. And each mall gives you a whole different shopping experience in the city.

26. San Diego has Many Spots That Are Great For Kids

Here's why you should visit San Diego with children. The city is great to visit as a family and that's because you can find a lot of great things to do for children.

One of these things is going to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park . This is a lovely place where you can see wildlife.

Another great activity is going to LEGOLAND California. This is a fun theme park that is great for children that love LEGO. You can find here various attractions and rides in a LEGO theme.

Besides that, Belmont Park is also great to visit as a family. You find here all kinds of attractions that are very suitable for children! For families, this is one of the best reasons to visit San Diego.

Furthermore, there are various museums that are perfect for children.

For example, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum is a great one, and the Maritime Museum is fun as well.

The New Children's Museum is a great museum for children as well. This is a fun place where children can learn new things through all kinds of fun exhibits!

27. It is Easy to Walk Everywhere in the Center

Another one of the reasons to visit San Diego is that it is a very walkable place.

When you want to go somewhere in the city center, walking is often the fastest way to get there!

This is great as it is more convenient. Moreover, it is much more fun to travel by walking. That's because you are much more able to take in the atmosphere of the city that way!

So because you can walk everywhere, you'll have a great and immersive experience. And this makes going to the city lovely!

28. The Gaslamp Quarter Is Amazing for Nightlife: Great Reason To Visit San Diego If You Want To Party

The Gaslamp Quarter is such a great place in the city.

I already said that it is great for shopping, but that's not all! The Gaslamp Quarter is also an amazing place for nightlife.

You can find a lot of great bars and clubs in this part of the city. I'm sure you'll have a great time when you go here at night.

So if you want to experience nightlife and have fun, that's why you should visit San Diego!

29. There Are Beautiful Palm Trees in the City

Who doesn't love palm trees? If you love palm trees too, that's also why you should visit San Diego.

That's because you can find this wonderful tree all throughout the city.

They are near beaches, in parks, at hotels, and at many other places.

Palm trees make every place in the city look even better! And they make doing a trip to the city a lot of fun. So that's one of the best reasons to visit San Diego!

30. The City Has Great Contemporary Art Museums

If you like contemporary art, you'll like the city for sure.

There are wonderful contemporary art museums in the city. And this is one of the reasons to visit San Diego if you like contemporary art.

One of the best places for seeing contemporary art is the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego .

This museum has two locations, one in the center and one in La Jolla. And at each location, you can see lovely contemporary and modern art.

The museum has thousands of objects in its permanent collection. This includes works by Craig Kauffman, Donald Judd, and many others.

What's great is that you can see a variety of types of art at the museum. For example, there are sculptures, paintings, and all kinds of other objects.

Also, there is a large exhibition space where you can often see art exhibitions. These exhibitions are a great way to learn a lot about a specific type of art or artist.

31. The Skyline is Great: Perfect Reason To Visit San Diego For Those Who Love Beautiful Skylines

If you love beautiful skylines, that's also why you should visit San Diego.

When you look at the city from a distance, you can see a collection of skyscrapers that looks beautiful! Especially when there is water in front of the skyline, this is a beautiful sight to see!

One of the best places for seeing the skyline is Point Loma.

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The 12 Best Hotels in San Diego

Choose from our list of editor-loved properties and T+L award winners.

Alesandra Dubin is an LA-based lifestyle writer and editor. As a veteran digital journalist, she's covered travel, food, parenting, and more for over 15 years. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy, and countless other online and print outlets. An avid traveler, she often trots the globe with her husband and their twins. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @alicedubin. Alesandra holds a master's degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor's degree from UC Berkeley.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Hotel Coronado

California’s second-largest city — and the eighth-largest in the country — San Diego is a sprawling metropolis with lodging options for every traveler. The urban center and its environs are home to wide-ranging accommodation options, from iconic hotels of historical and architectural significance to meandering beachside resort properties that beckon visitors with world-class golf and tennis.

Ready to plan your next getaway in sunny San Diego? Read on to discover the best hotels and resorts in the region, from beachy retreats to walkable city stays. A Southern California-based and -bred travel writer, I curated this list with expert recommendations from Travel + Leisure editors, contributors, and readers, along with winners from our World’s Best Awards and It List. (Bonus: almost all the hotels on our list are pet-friendly, too).

Kona Kai San Diego

Also available to book at Hotels.com

This intimate and unfussy hotel has a welcoming vibe, a private beach, and bikes for rent to explore the area.

Rooms may be noisy, and added costs (such as parking and a resort fee) can add up.

This pet-friendly contemporary hotel located at one end of Shelter Island has easy access to a non-swimming private beach for bean bag tossing, sandcastles, and nightly bonfires (ask for a s'mores kit at the front desk).

It features an adults-only pool and Zybra bikes (including helmets and locks) available to rent for two hours free of charge; the hotel is located in a super bike-friendly part of town, so it's a great way to explore. SpaTerre offers a unique alpha-quartz sand bed, plus a fitness center if you prefer to get your sweat on indoors. Kona Kai San Diego ranked in our World’s Best Awards in 2023.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Shelter Island
• Distance from Airport: 3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, USS Midway Museum, Liberty Public Market
• Accessibility: Accessible guest rooms and most property features
• Rates : Starting at $134
• Wi-Fi : Included in the $45 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $45 per night
• Pet Policy : Two dogs up to 65 pounds with a non-refundable pet charge of $100 for up to 3 nights or $150 up to 7 nights

Pendry San Diego

Pendry’s vibe and amenities are luxurious, stylish, and just plain cool, and its location can't be beat for access to Petco Park and the convention center.

Rates are steep, especially on peak dates, and extra fees like parking add up to a hefty folio.

This luxury hotel located in the Gaslamp Quarter scored a place on our World’s Best Awards in 2023 and 2021. Situated just blocks away from the San Diego Convention Center, Petco Park, and a variety of restaurants and nightlife, the vibe here is cool and luxurious. There are 317 guest rooms including 36 suites, plus six restaurants and bars, a rooftop pool with private cabanas, a fitness center, and the full-service Spa Pendry. Rooms start at 350 square feet, and feature top-end linens from Fili D'Oro and views of the bay and downtown.

• Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
• Distance from Airport: 3.6 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Petco Park, Maritime Museum, Balboa Park
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and suites
• Rates : From $334
• Parking : Yes (valet only), $60 per night
• Pet Policy : Two dogs of any size for an additional fee of $100 per stay

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

This iconic property is comprised of standalone casitas and has posh resort amenities including a high-end spa, tennis, and excellent golf access.

The location is serene and sprawling, but not walkable or convenient to sightseeing attractions. Plus a hefty daily resort fee of $60 adds to the overall cost.

This iconic Spanish Colonial Hacienda-inspired resort property in Rancho Santa Fe is long established and frequently awarded; it’s even ranked on our World’s Best Awards in 2023, 2022, and 2021. Here, there are 49 luxe guest casitas with their own patios and fireplaces, plus three opulent private residences, all situated across 45 acres of verdant gardens and citrus groves.

Highlights include the Spa at Rancho Valencia, tennis and pickleball courts, easy access to golf, an array of resort activities on the daily schedule, and The Pony Room restaurant showcasing fresh and sustainable coastal ranch fare with outdoor dining.

The Details: 

• Neighborhood: Rancho Santa Fe
• Distance from Airport: 18 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Farms golf course, Hiking trails, Del Mar Racetrack
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and public spaces
• Rates : From $524
• Parking : Yes, valet only, included
• Pet Policy : A $250 pet fee applies to all pet reservations

The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

This hotel is historically significant and well-located near Little Italy and the Gaslamp District.

Rooms are on the smaller side without abundant storage space.

Downtown's century-old Armed Services Building houses this hotel, which blends historic and modern touches for a comfortable and well-located stay. Steps from Little Italy, the Bayfront, the USS Midway Museum, and near the Gaslamp District, the building features high ceilings, original tilework, and exposed brick walls with rooms that are sparse and chic. The Guild dishes up craft cocktails and Mediterranean cuisine. This hotel also featured on T+L’s World’s Best Awards in 2023.

• Neighborhood: Downtown San Diego
• Distance from Airport: 1.8 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Santa Fe Depot train station, Gaslamp Quarter
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms available
• Rates : From $135
• Parking : Yes, valet only, $56 per day
• Pet Policy : Pets permitted up to 40 pounds max per room (if you’re bringing more than one pet, that’s the combined total weight). A $250 cleaning fee applies to any rooms requiring extra pet cleanup at the end of the stay.

Park Hyatt Aviara

This property recently underwent a total overhaul; among the standout features are large, graciously appointed rooms and the Miraval Life in Balance Spa.

This family-friendly resort may not appeal as much to those traveling without kids who are seeking a serene stay.

Sprawling over 200 green acres along the sea and adjacent to the natural wetland preserve Batiquitos Lagoon, this wellness-driven property offers adults-only and family pools, excellent tennis facilities, and Southern California’s only coastal Arnold Palmer signature golf course, Aviara Golf Club.

The resort recently unveiled an updated look following a $60 million overhaul, in which it updated all of the public spaces and guest rooms and suites, and added new amenities such as a Topgolf Swing Suites and the recently debuted Miraval Life in Balance Spa Aviara.

• Neighborhood: Carlsbad
• Distance from Airport: 33 miles
• Nearby Attractions: State beaches, Legoland California, Museum of Making Music
• Rates : From $375
• Parking : Yes, $65 overnight or $55 day rate (valet only)
• Pet Policy : $150 per pet, per stay. Dogs may not exceed 50 pounds each or 75 pounds combined (up to two dogs per room).

The US Grant, A Luxury Collection Hotel, San Diego

The US Grant

This property dates back more than 100 years and radiates historic charm.

Although the rooms have been updated, they may feel dated, with underwhelming views from the windows.

This century-old property located downtown near the lively Gaslamp Quarter exudes historic significance and charm; opened in 1910, it has hosted its share of presidents and dignitaries. Its on-site restaurant, Grant Grill and Lounge, dates back to 1951, with fleur de lis banquettes and mahogany wood details in an Art Deco setting; the space also hosts live music. Rooms here are stately and opulent.

• Distance from Airport: 2 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Symphony, USS Midway Museum
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and features, including elevators
• Rates : From $303
• Parking: $60 per night (valet only)
• Pet Policy : $150 non-refundable pet fee required, maximum pet weight is 35 pounds.

Hotel Del Coronado

This sprawling resort with recognizable Victorian architecture is an icon with a storied history dating back to 1888.

The resort is currently undergoing renovations.

This iconic Victorian-style hotel, now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, has welcomed visitors for 135 years. The resort features five distinct neighborhoods; Beach Village and Shore House are the hottest places for a stay right now. On site are a full suite of amenities including a full-service spa, private pool cabanas, a retail collection, and an array of resort activities.

The property is currently undergoing a massive $550 million restoration — a comprehensive five-year project. Among the exciting new additions slated to emerge in 2025 include a Nobu restaurant and the overhauled Victorian building.

• Neighborhood: Coronado Island
• Distance from Airport: 3.7 miles
• Nearby Attractions: The beach, Glorietta Bay Marina
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and resort features
• Rates : From $314
• Wi-Fi : Included with $35 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $55 overnight for self-parking or $75 overnight for valet
• Pet Policy : Pets weighing up to 40 pounds with a maximum of 2 per guest room and a non-refundable pet charge of $125 per stay

The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe

This intimate property recently debuted a luxurious overhaul.

This property is 20 miles from the airport and generally not walkable to other attractions; it’s useful to have a car.

Set in Rancho Santa Fe in North County, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe debuted a total property overhaul across its 11 lush acres in November 2023. The reimagined inn offers 85 luxurious suites, bungalows, and residences, plus Lilian’s restaurant and Bing’s Bar.

In the first-ever hotel partnership from a celebrity-favorite spa owner and luxury skincare line founder, the property is also home to The Mila Moursi Spa at The Inn. Here, there’s also world-class golf, tennis, and other outdoor activities. Hollywood heavyweights known for stays here include Bing Crosby, Charlie Chaplin, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mary Pickford.

• Neighborhood: North County
• Distance from Airport: 20 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, San Diego Botanic Garden, Del Mar Dog Beach
• Rates : From $481
• Parking : Yes, valet and self-parking available ($25)
• Pet Policy : Two dogs up to 50 lbs for an additional fee of $125 per stay

La Valencia

You can’t beat this prime La Jolla location, walkable to beaches, shopping, and restaurants; it’s one of La Jolla’s only hotels located within walking distance to both the beach and downtown.

The room sizing can feel cramped, and noise can be an issue.

With a nearly century-long history, this recognizable hotel with a signature pink facade and Spanish-tiled tower, remains a landmark in La Jolla. Situated on distinctive Prospect Street, atop the bluffs with views of the ocean and La Jolla Cove, the location is prime for exploring beaches and local businesses. On site are the Mediterranean Room ocean-view restaurant as well as the La Sala Lounge and a Peloton-equipped fitness center.

• Neighborhood: La Jolla
• Distance from Airport: 9.3 miles
• Nearby Attractions: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Caves, village of La Jolla
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and property features
• Rates : From $242
• Wi-Fi : Included with $39 resort fee
• Parking : Yes, valet ($30 overnight or $18 for the day)
• Pet Policy : Maximum of two pets per room with a fee of $50 per pet

Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa

With a location ideally situated for visitors to the University of California, San Diego, this recently renovated property is verdant and peaceful.

While we love the mission-style architecture of the property, the room design is a bit underwhelming in comparison.

This La Jolla property recently completed a major renovation of its 210 guest rooms and suites, plus its multiple lawn spaces, and added a new apiary and chef’s garden. The sprawling property includes 10 acres of gardens, stone pathways, serene courtyards, and fountains. The hotel also features a full-service spa, a large pool deck and cabanas, wellness programs which include outdoor yoga and barre classes, and three on-site dining destinations.

• Distance from Airport: 11 miles
• Nearby Attractions: UC San Diego, Black’s Beach, La Jolla Cove, Torrey Pines State Reserve, Salk Institute
• Rates : From $257
• Parking : Yes, valet parking is available for $48 per night and self-parking at $40 per night for overnight guests
• Pet Policy : Any size or breed is welcome, $150 non-refundable pet fee required at check-in

Alila Marea Beach Resort

Alila Marea

Most rooms in this tranquil oceanfront property feature views of the Pacific.

The hefty $55 resort fee does not include parking.

This beachfront resort in the World of Hyatt portfolio has 130 guest rooms — and most of them feature Pacific Ocean views. The resort fee covers a range of properly appealing inclusions, such as transportation within a 3-mile radius, a daily yoga class, and rentals of e-bikes, surfboards, and wetsuits. First-floor fire pit rooms feature spacious patios with cozy seating for all-season enjoyment.

• Neighborhood: Encinitas
• Distance from Airport: 25 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Ponto Beach, Encinitas Town, San Diego Botanic Garden
• Accessibility: Accessible rooms and most hotel features
• Rates : From $497
• Wi-Fi : Included with the $55 daily resort fee
• Parking : Yes, $60 per night (valet only)
• Pet Policy : No pets permitted.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Cory Bjork / The Lodge at Torrey Pines

This charming property offers excellent access to golf, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Some visitors noted aging finishes and rooms in need of updates.

Set atop the cliffs of Torrey Pines State Beach in La Jolla, The Lodge offers views of the ocean as well as the Torrey Pines Golf Course. With its post-and-beam construction, The Lodge is modeled after Pasadena’s Gamble and Blacker houses, exemplary of early-1900s Craftsman architecture.

Here there are 170 guest rooms and suites, as well as the 9,500-square-foot Spa at Torrey Pines. There’s also a croquet lawn, heated outdoor pool and cabanas, whirlpool, and terrace with chaises, plus access to hiking at the state reserve and golf at the iconic 36-hole course that hosts the PGA Tour’s annual Farmers Insurance Open.

• Distance from Airport: 15 miles
• Nearby Attractions: Del Mar Race Track, Scripps Aquarium, La Jolla Playhouse, Torrey Pines Golf Course
• Rates : From $422
• Parking : Yes, self-parking ($55 per day) or 24-hour valet service ($65 per day)
• Pet Policy : One dog weighing 50 pounds or less, or two smaller dogs (with a combined weight of 75 pounds or less) are permitted; a non-refundable room cleaning fee of $150 on the day of check-in is required.

Know Before You Go

Don’t expect beach weather year-round.

While San Diego is much warmer than most of the country during the winter months, it still may not be warm enough for lounging at the beach — think daytime temperatures in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit — so plan for some non-beach activities if you’re traveling in cooler months. That said, even January surprises with the occasional beach day. Layers are always a good idea.

Consider renting a car

While the downtown area is very walkable, San Diego is a sprawling and spread-out city where many residents rely on cars. If you’re looking to go hiking or explore other parts of the county, you may want to have your own car for easier access. Do expect traffic, and build it into your timeline planning.

What’s the best way to get to San Diego?

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located near the city’s downtown, and its manageable scale makes arriving and departing relatively sane. If you’re coming from elsewhere in California, Amtrak’s Surfliner is one of the country’s most scenic routes. It travels over 350 miles along the coast between San Luis Obispo to the north and San Diego to the south. If you’re arriving by car, the major freeways into the city include the 5, 8, and 15.

How We Chose These Hotels

Alesandra Dubin is a travel and lifestyle journalist currently based in and also raised in Southern California. The hotels on this list were chosen based on her expertise and research as well as the firsthand accounts of Travel + Leisure editors and other contributors. Many of these hotels have also been voted into their respective categories in the World’s Best Awards by T+L readers. All of our hotel recommendations also align with our T+L Hotel Values .

Top Foods To Try in San Diego

Top foods to try in san diego.

L ike many parts of the United States, San Diego is a melting pot for many cultures. In every San Diego neighborhood , you will find restaurants and shops of different cuisines and cultures. If you want to know our favorite spots, take a look at our San Diego Restaurant guide , giving recommendations for our go-to restaurants in each neighborhood.

Living here can feel lively and vibrant. Visiting can be thrilling but sometimes a little overwhelming. Which Thai place should you try? You don’t want to miss out on the San Diego staples. Ah! It’s too much!

Relax. Take a breath. I’m here to help you out. The thing is, you have the freedom to try whatever the heck you want to. There are just a couple of things I suggest you try first. Let me break it down.

What Foods Is San Diego Known For?

San Diego has a little bit of everything from Asian to Indian to Italian food. However, we are known for the following local specialties:

• Wood-fired, California style pizza
• Southeast Asian specialties
• Mexican food
• Locally produced hard and sweet apple cider
• Avocados, mushrooms, and acidic fruits like tomatoes, oranges, and limes

Which Dish Should You Try First?

Okay, now that you know what San Diego is best known for in the culinary world, let’s find out which awesome dishes you should try first. I will tell you exactly where you can get them to have some of the best food experiences around. I’ve lived in San Diego for about 85% of my life so I’m pretty savvy with this kind of thing. Let’s get started!

Guacamole Nogada

This awesome little dish highlights those fruits and veggies I was talking about before. Basically, it’s traditional guacamole with all those traditional ingredients like tomato, lime juice, onions, etc.

But the twist is adding mangoes, pomegranate seeds, candied walnuts, and Chile de Arbol. The combination of all the textures and tastes creates a symphony in your mouth as you scoop it into your mouth.

Where to Get It: Puesto

789 W Harbor Dr. San Diego, CA

Panang Curry

Panang curry is a Thai dish that can vary in protein and spice. It’s a variety of red curry that’s thick, sweet, salty, and a little nutty from the peanuts. Panang is an old curry that dates back to at least the 1890’s if not later than that.

Like many Southeast Asian dishes, Panang curry is super flavorful and delicious. At many restaurants, they will let you chose the protein and spice level of your curry. If you’re brave, go all the way!

Where to Get It: Sab-E-Lee

6925 Linda Vista Rd. (Linda Vista Plaza – Suite B) San Diego, CA 92111

There has been a recent Poke craze that’s gone around town. While the chains are reliable, nothing beats a little mom and pop shop. If you don’t know what poke is, it’s usually a fish tartar type deal with Polynesian flavors and spices. I’m usually not one for raw fish but I do admit that poke is pretty great. You can either have it as an appetizer or a main course, I usually pair it with some Spam musubi and rice. It’s best to get a small quantity of several different types. It’ll definitely light your palate up.

Where to Get It: It’s Raw Poke Shop

3112, 4991 Newport Ave A, San Diego, CA 92107

Apple Pie a La Mode

This is a staple American dish. The flaky pie crust so delicately encompassing al dente apples that have been cooked in butter, sugar, and spices. Then topping this already seemingly perfect dessert with ice-cold creamy vanilla bean ice cream. Ugh, it’s absolute perfection. If you’re visiting San Diego then you MUST take a day trip to Julian to try a piece of the magic.

Where to Get It: Julian Pie Company (It’s Famous Nationwide)

2225 Main Street, Julian, CA 92036

California-Style Pizza

Pizza is probably one of the most popular foods in the US and almost everyone has their own style of pizza from New York to Chicago deep-dish to the traditional Neopolitan. But in California, specifically SoCal, pizza is served in single servings on thin-crust with local ingredients. California Pizza Kitchen is super popular in this aspect but it’s not necessarily the best.

Where to Get It: The Besta Wan Pizza House

148 Aberdeen Drive, Cardiff By The Sea, California 92007, United States

California Burrito

Now, this isn’t necessarily Mexican but it is served at every single Mexican restaurant in San Diego and has quickly become a fan favorite. The California Burrito is filled with either Carne or Pollo Asada (I prefer Pollo), guacamole, pico de gallo, French fries (yes, you read correctly), sour cream, and cheese. It’s the ultimate meal for surfers, stoners, slackers, drunk people, and college kids. Add some hot sauce and you’re golden.

Where to Get It: Nino’s Mexican Food

4918 Newport Ave San Diego, CA

Alternatively: Trujillo’s Taco Shop (Ask for the Sigma Pi burrito)

5120 Cantina Way, San Diego, CA 92115

Famous Brussel Sprouts

Yes, I know it’s kind of expected that one of the awesome dishes I’m telling you to try is a vegetable. One of the least popular ones too. But hear me out. This particular brussel sprout dish is bursting with flavors of pancetta, parmesan, balsamic, and Port. They are freaking mind-blowing.

Local San Diego Wine

California has worked hard to make a name for themselves in the wine industry. It started in Northern California in the 70’s. There’s even a movie about it called Bottle Shock . Great movie with Chris Pine and Alan Rickman.

Once it hit big, the vineyards started to branch out and Southern California started producing wine. San Diego wineries are fun to visit. There are many varieties but they get a lot of praise. There’s only one place that serves just locally sourced SoCal wine.

Where to Get It: Pali Wine Co.

2130 India St, San Diego, CA 92101

Vegan Thai Food

Vegan food has hit pretty big with the younger crowd, especially in towns like San Diego. I, personally, am not a vegan nor do I plan to be but I stumbled across vegan Thai food while I was a canvasser a while ago. I couldn’t even tell that it was vegan and had no idea it was until I actually looked at the name of the restaurant.

The soup I ate was flavorful and savory while the noodles with thick and sweet to contrast. The soul of Thai food was not hindered by the vegan ingredients but somehow enhanced. I was delighted and surprised.

Where to Get It: Veganic Thai Cafe

1417 Suit A, University Ave, San Diego, CA 92103

Japanese Food

While it is not Southeast Asian, Japanese food is very popular around San Diego. There are several sushi restaurants, ramen shops, and the like. Ramen is a bit complicated since some people don’t think it’s Japanese.

It has actually been an iconic Japanese dish since as early as 1859. It is originally Chinese but has become a staple in Japanese cuisine. Yes, it is Japanese. The multiple styles from Tonkatsu to Curry make it a very exciting dish to try over and over again to have different experiences.

Where to Get It: Tajima Ramen

4411 Mercury St, Ste 110, San Diego, CA 92111

Last but not least – Tacos. You can’t write a food article about San Diego and not mention tacos, especially fish tacos. Fish tacos are an absolute staple in San Diego. Tacos, in general, are popular with the border so close but fish tacos are much more in demand with the coast right there.

A soft shell corn tortilla with crispy fish filet, shredded cabbage, chipotle sour cream sauce, and delicious pico de gallo on top, it’s hard to resist. But fish tacos aren’t limited to fish filets, there are shrimp tacos, smoked fish tacos, and so much more. It’s a must if you’re visiting San Diego.

Where to Get It: Oscar’s Mexican Seafood

703 Turquoise St, San Diego, CA 92109

Read our full guide on the best San Diego Taco Shops here>>

San Diego is full of life and culture that is best represented through the food it serves. This only brushes the surface of the amazing San Diego delicacies and specialties. But trust me, start with these 10. They’ll have you coming back to San Diego for more.

Top 10 Foods to Try in San Diego was written and edited by Hedge Metreyeon. For more San Diego Explorer posts, check out our homepage. For more of their articles visit here . Follow them on social media here.

Top 10 Foods You Must Try in San Diego – Pin for later:

Last Updated on May 11, 2023 by sandiegoexplorer

The post Top Foods To Try in San Diego appeared first on San Diego Explorer .

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America San Diego vs. Las Vegas for Food, Nightlife, Music, and Resorts

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in San Diego or Las Vegas?
• Which is Cheaper, San Diego or Las Vegas? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, San Diego or Las Vegas?

Should you visit san diego or las vegas, which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for San Diego and Las Vegas. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

San Diego is a outdoorsy, idyllic, and fun-filled coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Las Vegas is a entertaining, sexy, and glamourous entertainment capital. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

San Diego and Las Vegas: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Good scuba and snorkeling destination
• Popular beach
• Good for hiking
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Good for students
• Less popular for food
• Not as many resort options
• Less popular for shopping
• Numerous theater shows
• Popular for food and cuisine
• Nice resorts
• Fun shopping
• Big city activities
• Home to the Strip
• Less family-friendly
• Less popular with backpackers

Is there more to do in San Diego or Las Vegas?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Las Vegas than San Diego. While San Diego is larger than Las Vegas, Las Vegas has more sights and attractions for tourists. Las Vegas is very popular for its theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while San Diego attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. San Diego is famous for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. Las Vegas is famous for its magnificent resorts, world-class nightlife, all-you-can-eat buffets, and long running productions. It is also well known for The Strip.

How is San Diego different from Las Vegas?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Las Vegas and San Diego. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Diego or Las Vegas?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both San Diego and Las Vegas.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around San Diego. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Las Vegas offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Just wander along the Strip and pop in to any of the hotels to see what makes this city unique. There are many replicas of iconic landmarks around the world including the Venetian canals and the Eiffel Tower. You can also check out the Mob Museum, the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay, and the Neon Museum.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Theater?

Las Vegas is renowned for its theatre productions. However, San Diego is not a theatre destination.

Las Vegas is considered to be a world-class theater destination. Long running shows along with traveling Broadway productions make the theater scene here diverse and entertaining.

San Diego is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in San Diego or Las Vegas? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Las Vegas is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Las Vegas, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It has become famous for it's all-you-can-eat buffets, which you'll find in almost every hotel along the strip. To fully experience the sin of gluttony, head for one of the more luxurious hotels, which have the more expensive, but also higher quality buffets. Celebrity chefs have also opened many five star restaurants around town that you must try.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Nightlife?

Las Vegas is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Las Vegas is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. From posh dance clubs to glitzy cocktail bars, its nightlife scene puts this city on the map. Many people forget to sleep here, whether they're gambling away their money, checking out a world class show, or partying in one of the many clubs.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Music?

Las Vegas is renowned for its live music scene. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Las Vegas. There are a number of long running shows as well as frequent musicians that pass through. There are also free live concerts and music festivals throughout the year.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Resorts?

Las Vegas is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Las Vegas for its luxury resorts. Along the strip you'll find world class resorts with casinos, shops, theaters, and all kinds of entertainment venues. Many resorts have a detailed décor that immerses you in an ambiance that unique from the world outside. Top rated resorts include the Bellagio, the Wynn, and Park MGM.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

San Diego is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in San Diego . Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Las Vegas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Beaches?

San Diego is very popular for its beaches. However, Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

San Diego offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Las Vegas is not a beach destination.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Hiking?

San Diego is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Las Vegas is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Diego or Las Vegas?

Las Vegas is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Las Vegas draws large crowds to its stores. The city's shopping scene combines high end brands with a style that is uniquely Las Vegas. Many hotels have their own malls or shopping areas where you can buy designer names or visit flagship stores.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Families?

San Diego is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, San Diego is very family-friendly. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Las Vegas is not always a place people visit with their families. The city is more known for its adult entertainment options than as a family-friendly destination, but there are good kid-friendly activities around town including kid-oriented shows, the Fun Dungeon in the Excalibur, and thrilling rides that are great for all ages.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Couples?

San Diego and Las Vegas both terrific destinations for a couple.

San Diego is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Las Vegas makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The city has become a mecca for weddings - whether impromptu or luxuriously planned out. With it's glamourous resorts and wide variety of entertainment options, couples can enjoy a fun-filled visit here.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

San Diego is a good destination for backpackers. However, Las Vegas is a mediocre entertainment capital for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit San Diego . Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Las Vegas is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most visitors are not backpackers, but for those who want to experience the hype while sticking to a budget, there are a handful of hostels around town.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Students?

San Diego is very popular for students. However, Las Vegas is not popular with students.

San Diego is a very popular place to visit for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Las Vegas is not popular with students.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

San Diego and Las Vegas both offer reasonable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Public transit is generally limited in Las Vegas. Many visitors use the Monorail to get around the Strip and the touristy areas. There's also a bus system that travels throughout the city.

Is San Diego or Las Vegas a more walkable city?

San Diego and Las Vegas are nice when it comes to walkability.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

Las Vegas is a somewhat walkable coastal city. The area around The Strip is very walkable and pedestrian-friendly. In this area you can access many restaurants, hotels, and casinos.

For even more information, also check out Is San Diego Worth Visiting? and Is Las Vegas Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Las Vegas or San Diego?

How long in san diego or las vegas.

Both San Diego and Las Vegas have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Las Vegas than in San Diego . Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for San Diego, and 2-7 days is enough time in Las Vegas.

Families should spend more time in San Diego than Las Vegas. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in San Diego, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Las Vegas than San Diego. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Las Vegas that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Diego than Las Vegas if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in San Diego.

• How many days in San Diego or Las Vegas? Ideal Length of Stay San Diego 3-5   Las Vegas   2-7

One day in San Diego or Las Vegas?

You'll find shopping and museums around the coastal city of San Diego. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in San Diego or Las Vegas?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the idyllic destination of San Diego. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this entertainment capital has to offer. This entertainment capital offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in San Diego or Las Vegas?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the idyllic coastal city of San Diego. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this coastal city makes for a great vacation. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this coastal city has to offer.

People visit Las Vegas because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this entertainment capital makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this entertainment capital has to offer.

A week in San Diego or Las Vegas?

San Diego is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Las Vegas is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Las Vegas, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America , The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America , The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America , and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas .

Which place is cheaper, Las Vegas or San Diego?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• San Diego Prices USA Prices Las Vegas Prices USA Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day San Diego $ 202 Las Vegas $ 310

The average daily cost (per person) in San Diego is $202, while the average daily cost in Las Vegas is $310. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for San Diego and Las Vegas in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person San Diego $ 115 Las Vegas $ 158
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room San Diego $ 230 Las Vegas $ 316

Compare Hotels in San Diego and Las Vegas

Looking for a hotel in San Diego or Las Vegas? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in San Diego

Hotels in Las Vegas

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. San Diego $ 24 Las Vegas $ 53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Diego

Also for San Diego, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in San Diego HTL-APT(SAN): $47
• Private Departure Transfer to San Diego Airport SAN: $50
• Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) – Departure Private Transfer: $54
• Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) to Tijuana hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $54
• Private Arrival Transfer from San Diego Airport SAN: $56
• San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Marcos, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $64
• Transfer in private minivan from San Diego Downtown to San Diego Airport (SAN): $68
• Transfer in private minivan from San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego Downtown: $68
• San Diego Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Diego: $70
• San Diego Airport - Private Round Trip Transfer: $70
• San Diego Airport (SAN) to Carlsbad, CA - Arrival Private Transfer: $74
• Private Transfer from San Diego Port to San Diego city hotels: $74

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Las Vegas are as follows:

• 24 Hr Bus Pass $ 15
• 24 hrs Deuce Bus $ 7.00
• Taxi from Airport to the Strip $ 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Las Vegas

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Las Vegas:

• Los Angeles: Private Transfer to/from Las Vegas: $2,000
• West Grand Canyon Helicopter Ticket with Transfer: $509
• Las Vegas Airport: Party Bus 1-Way Transfer: $269
• Private Roundtrip Transfer: To Las Vegas by Luxury Limo: $245
• Las Vegas McCarran Airport (LAS): Transfer to Las Vegas: $238
• RoundTrip Private Transfer Las Vegas by Luxury SUV Cadillac Escalade up to 5 pax: $232
• Departure Private Transfer: Las Vegas to Las Vegas Airport LAS in Business Car: $202
• Arrival Private Transfer: Las Vegas Airport LAS to Las Vegas in Business Car: $202
• From Nellis Dunes ATV Tour with Shuttle Transfer: $200
• Manila ATV Mountain Trail Adventure(with Transfers***): $175
• Private Transfer in Las Vegas with Personal Driver: $175
• Round trip Private Transfer Las Vegas airport by eco friendly premium cars: $168

Is it cheaper to fly into San Diego or Las Vegas?

Prices for flights to both Las Vegas and San Diego change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day San Diego $ 45 Las Vegas $ 80

Typical Food Prices in San Diego

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to San Diego:

• Mexican Lunch for Two $ 27
• Breakfast at Starbucks $ 20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour: $81
• Little Italy Food and Drink Walking Tour - Pizza, Pasta & Piazzas: $85
• Gaslamp Quarter Downtown San Diego Food Tour: $89
• Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour: $89
• San Diego Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $95
• San Diego, Seaport Village: Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $99
• Guided Secret Food Tour: $101
• Scenic Buffet Dinner Cruise: $108
• San Diego Dinner Cruise: $116
• Gourmet Dinner Cruise: $118
• San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise: $118
• Thanksgiving Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $121

Typical Food Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of dining costs in Las Vegas are as follows:

• Coffee $ 5.00
• Deep Fried Twinkie $ 1.07
• Chocolate Dip Banana $ 1.07
• Gelato $ 5.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Las Vegas

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Las Vegas.

• Half-Day Private Manila Food Tour: True Philippine Experience: $40
• Guest Artists Chuck Wagon Dinner Show in Henderson: $49
• Chuck Wagon Dinner and Show at the Firelight Barn in Henderson: $49
• Manila Night Market and Food tour experience with Mari: $62
• Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience : $65
• Manila A Walking Food Tour in the Downtown, Eat and Drink: $70
• Makati Street Food tour Experience with Mari: $73
• Manila Filipino Cooking Class: Meryenda Favorites: $75
• Tournament of Kings Dinner and Show at Excalibur Hotel and Casino: $78
• Las Vegas Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $80
• Market Tour and Provincial Filipino Cooking Class in the Countryside: $88
• Private Filipino cooking class in a local Manila Home: $90

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. San Diego $ 48 Las Vegas $ 78

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• San Diego Zoo $ 15
• Sea World Parking $ 12

Tours and Activities in San Diego

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Diego.

• Waterfront Smartphone Audio Walking Tour: $7.26
• A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
• Pies & Pickaxes: A Historic Walking Tour of Julian, CA: $8.99
• Historical Walking Tour of San Diego: $10
• Beaches & Bluffs San Diego's Ultimate Coastal Driving Tour: $12
• San Diego Natural History Museum Ticket: $12
• Haunted Historic Whaley House - Self-Guided Tour: $14
• Apple Pies & Desert Skies: A Self-Guided Driving Tour: $15
• Private Walking Tour and Gaslamp Adventure in San Diego: $20
• San Diego's Historic Treasures and Old Town Tour: $20
• Explore Balboa in a Private Tour of San Diego Hidden Gems: $20
• San Diego Scavenger Hunt Adventure: $21

Typical Entertainment Prices in Las Vegas

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Las Vegas are as follows:

• Wedding Chapel $ 139
• Atomic Testing Museum (two people) $ 12
• Gondola Ride (4 person) $ 64
• Monorail Ride $ 5.00
• NY NY Rollercoaster $ 14
• Circus Circus Adventure Dome Day Pass $ 26

Tours and Activities in Las Vegas

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Las Vegas are as follows:

• 4 Gun Vegas Desert Shooting Adventure with Lunch from Las Vegas: $199
• 7-Hours Tour of Manila: Eat, Walk & Explore: $64
• All Day GoCar Ultimate Las Vegas Day Tour: $205
• Horseback Riding Tour in Las Vegas: $85
• Manila; Walking Foods and Drinks Tour : $70
• Nellis Desert Exploration Jeep Tour Off Road You Drive We Guide: $283
• Vegas Strip and Red Rock Canyon Guided Trike or Slingshot Tour : $189
• 1-Day Zion & Bryce Canyon National Park Bus Tour: $199
• 1-Day Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park Tour: $249
• 1.5 Hr Las Vegas Strip Limo Tour with Champagne and Photos: $549
• 1.5-Hour Express Bike Tour in Intramuros (tour using a bamboo bicycle!): $22
• 1.5-Hour Guided Raft Tour at the Base of the Hoover Dam: $69
• Alcohol Drinks for one day San Diego $ 21 Las Vegas $ 55

Sample the Local Flavors in San Diego

Also in San Diego, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Gaslamp Bar Crawls and Events: $20
• History Tour Pub Crawl of Famous Gaslamp Quarter: $30
• Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings: $85
• Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $119
• Vino! Vino! Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
• Private Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $132
• Cruise & Booze Brewery tours : $149
• Baja Tour Guide wine tour: $169
• Sidecar Wine Tasting Tour: $199
• Brewery and Tap Room Sidecar Tour: $199
• California Sunset Brewery Tour: $199
• Brewery and Beer Tasting Tour in San Diego: $215

Sample the Local Flavors in Las Vegas

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Las Vegas:

• Mobsters, Casinos, and Speaky Bar Crawl: $36
• Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl (party bus add-on option): $36
• Zombie Burlesque at Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino: $50
• Zombie Burlesque Comedy Musical Show Ticket: $50
• Fremont Street Party Bus and Bar Crawl: $50
• Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $50
• Las Vegas Fremont Street Bar Crawl: $50
• Las Vegas Country Bar Crawl by Party Bus w/ Free Drinks: $59
• Fantasy Burlesque Show at Luxor Hotel & Casino: $61
• Nightclub and Bar Crawl with Party Bus and Drinks: $69
• Fremont Street Bar Crawl : $70
• Fremont Street-Old Vegas Bar Crawl: $70

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Diego and Las Vegas, we can see that Las Vegas is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Diego would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Diego and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Las Vegas would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Las Vegas than you might in San Diego.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Diego Expensive? and Is Las Vegas Expensive? .

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Las Vegas. When comparing the sizes of San Diego and Las Vegas, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

Related Articles for San Diego

Related articles for las vegas.

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San Diego Travel Blog

Local insight to help you plan your next San Diego vacation.

April 18, 2024 By Julia Buescher

Discover the Ultimate Wonderfront VIP Music Experience in San Diego

The Wonderfront Music Festival is a three-day waterfront music festival held in San Diego, California, and bringing together a diverse lineup of artists from multiple genres, including rock, hip-hop, EDM and more. The festival takes place May 10-12, and will attract music enthusiasts from around the country to take in amazing live performances against the backdrop of San Diego’s stunning waterfront scenery. 

Music and much more! 

The festival showcases multiple stages spread out along the waterfront, offering attendees a dynamic and immersive experience. From intimate acoustic sets to electrifying main-stage performances, Wonderfront caters to a wide range of musical tastes. Notable headliners and emerging artists alike grace the stages, ensuring there’s something for everyone. 

In addition to its stellar musical lineup, Wonderfront offers a plethora of activities and attractions to keep attendees entertained throughout the weekend. The festival embraces San Diego’s vibrant culture by incorporating elements such as local cuisine, craft beer and art installations. Attendees can indulge in culinary delights from food vendors who will serve up a diverse array of dishes, from gourmet street tacos to fresh seafood. 

Perfect perks for VIPs 

For those craving the ultimate VIP experience, Wonderfront presents the VIP Wonderfull Pass, offering exclusive perks and privileges. VIP ticket holders enjoy dedicated entrance lines at main venue gates, ensuring swift and hassle-free entry during peak festival moments. The VIP Lounge, nestled next to the sparkling bayfront, provides a serene escape from the festival’s hustle and bustle. 

Experience every note up close with unparalleled viewing from VIP platforms, ensuring an elevated perspective of main-stage performances. The extended front-of-stage access, exclusively for VIPs, brings you closer to the action than ever before. Indulge in specialized gourmet food offerings in the VIP Lounge, catering to diverse tastes. Picture lounging in a VIP area steps away from the main stages and waterfront, with access to a VIP Limo Boat for harbor party cruises. Front-row viewing at both main stages is now expanded for 2024, featuring multiple entrance/exit points and a VIP fast lane. Dive into the VIP Hideaway Lounge within the new EDM Dance Club for an exclusive open-air club experience like no other. 

Explore San Diego’s stunning bayfront 

Beyond the music and food, Wonderfront offers plenty of opportunities for attendees to explore and engage with the waterfront. The festival encourages attendees to take advantage of San Diego’s gorgeous bayfront location by offering various water-based activities and boat tours. Additionally, attendees can discover hidden gems along the Embarcadero , from scenic parks to historic landmarks, making Wonderfront a truly immersive experience. 

The festival’s inclusive atmosphere and diverse lineup reflect its commitment to celebrating music and bringing people together from all walks of life. Whether you’re a die-hard music fan or simply looking to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, Wonderfront promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of San Diego’s rich cultural tapestry . 

Get Your Wonderfront Ticket

Money Report

NFL draft prospect who could get a $2.7 million signing bonus still drives his old Honda Accord: ‘It gets me from A to B'

By tom huddleston jr.,cnbc • published april 25, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 12:52 pm.

When the 2024 NFL Draft kicks off in Detroit on Thursday night, Braden Fiske will join hundreds of other former college football players waiting to hear their names called to begin their pro careers and potentially sign multimillion-dollar contracts.

A former Florida State University defensive tackle, Fiske is currently projected to be a second-round pick in this year's draft, according to a roundup of mock drafts . That would mean a likely contract of around $8 million over four years, including a $2.7 million signing bonus, according to MarketWatch .

But whether or not that impending windfall means Fiske will upgrade his ride remains to be seen:

"Everyone tries to get me to buy a new car because I have a Honda Accord, and I'm way too big to be driving a Honda Accord," Fiske, who NFL.com lists at 6-foot-4 and 292 pounds, told MarketWatch in March. "It's only got 150,000 miles on it, though, and it gets me from A to B." 

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Life-changing NCAA income gave him 'peace of mind'

The idea of young athletes reaping instant riches has long been an annual subplot of the NFL draft. The reality has become slightly less dramatic in recent years since the NCAA began allowing players to benefit financially from their name, image and likeness , starting in 2021. Previously required to maintain an "amateur" status, collegiate athletes are now free to earn money through endorsements and other deals that can bring in thousands, or millions , of dollars for some players.

For Fiske, that meant signing a "six-figure NIL deal" in 2023 with The Battle End, a collective established to help FSU players earn NIL money, he recently told Business Insider . While Fiske has not disclosed the specific total he earned from NIL deals while in college, he added that the new source of income "changed my life."

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"I remember a time when I was down to my last $20 and had to decide if I was going to spend it on gas or food. The money I received gave me a peace of mind I did not have previously," Fiske told Business Insider.

Now, as Fiske prepares to learn where his NFL career will begin, he's already gotten a head start on making smart decisions about how to spend his professional football earnings. He's hired a financial advisor, started a Roth IRA, and put more money away in a brokerage account. 

"I used a lot of my NIL money for investments. I put much of that money into a brokerage account in the stock market to set myself up for retirement," he said.

Fiske believes a lot of college athletes could use more financial literacy training, especially now. Though he made some savvy choices, Fiske admitted he made "a few mistakes" early on after receiving his NIL money. "I saw the dollar sign and hit the mall up to go shopping. I love buying shoes. That's one red flag about me," said Fiske, who is particularly fond of Nike's Air Jordan 1 sneakers.

After this week's draft, and once Fiske signs his first NFL contract, he'll likely have enough money to afford more than a few pairs of sneakers. Will he also be tempted to buy a new set of wheels?

"I'm sure I'll give in once I see more 0s on my account," Fiske told MarketWatch.

Want to make extra money outside of your day job?  Sign up for CNBC's new online course How to Earn Passive Income Online to learn about common passive income streams, tips to get started and real-life success stories.

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