san diego travel video

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.

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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 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.

Stacey Lastoe

Kimberly Wilson

Matt Kirouac

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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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

San Diego International Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

San Diego Trolley Guide

Driving in San Diego

48 Hours in San Diego

Day Trips From San Diego

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Best Beaches

Where to Shop

Hiking in San Diego

Balboa Park Guide

Top Museums to Visit

Must-Try Food in San Diego

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in San Diego

Top Breweries

Your Trip to San Diego: The Complete Guide

California’s first tourist, Spanish conquistador Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo , stepped ashore in San Diego in 1542. Visitors haven’t stopped coming to the Plymouth Rock of the West Coast, now America’s eighth-largest city, ever since. Its 70 miles of scenic coast, favorable year-round climate boasting 267 days of sunshine  , endless outdoorsy offerings, singular craft beer scene, plentiful bounty of quality produce and seafood, family-friendly attractions, diverse cultural population, and general laid back vibe make it a quintessential Golden State getaway.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit :  San Diego is a true year-round destination so it depends what kind of vacation you’re after. Sun and sand? Go August through mid-October. Fall, non-holiday winter weeks, and early spring bring the shortest lines at family-friendly attractions and generally cheaper hotel rates. Avoid Comic-Con week unless superheroes and sci-fi are your reasons for living. 
• Language:  English, but you’ll also hear and see lots of Spanish.
• Currency:  US Dollar
• Getting Around:  Driving is the most common mode of transportation in this giant county although many people rely on rideshare apps to avoid having to find/pay for parking or limit alcohol intake when going out at night. Walking, if your destination is close enough, is usually safe in the best neighborhoods to visit. There is also a bus line, mass transit trolley, and app scooter rentals.
• Travel Tips:  Layer, layer, layer as this beach-meets-desert location , is subject to bright sun, marine layers, ocean breezes, hot Santa Ana winds, occasional rain, and post-sunset 10 degree temperature drops even in the summer, sometimes all in one day. Everyone keeps it pretty casual, especially clothing-wise, but with an abundance of dogs, babies, military personnel, and fitness gurus the city tends to get an early start on the day.

Watch Now: 5 Must-Visit Beaches in San Diego

Things to do.

Whatever floats your boat, even if that is literally floating in a boat, San Diego has you covered. It’s easy to fill an itinerary for a family vacation, a romantic retreat, an active or outdoorsy adventure, or a city excursion.

• Play Outside: From sunny sea-level scenery to mountaintop panoramas, from the lushest of the 90 golf courses to the desolate Anza-Borrego Desert , and from the gnarliest wave to the calmest lake, San Diego’s a gorgeous place for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts to roam. Hike the five-peak challenge at Editor's Choice Award winner Mission Trails Regional Park, selfie at Potato Chip Rock , or step back in time at Carlsbad Calavera Nature Preserve. Spend a Sunday 'funday' at these 12 beaches . Get out on the water by whatever means necessary, be it a surfboard, kayak, sailboat, or paddleboard. Go apple-picking, golfing, paragliding, mountain biking, rock climbing, snorkeling, or kite-surfing. Heck, you can even join a naked volleyball game at the unofficial nude beach. 
• See Animals: It’s easy to make furry friends here. There’s of course the San Diego Zoo and their sister attraction, the Safari Park. Something’s fishy at Birch Aquarium and LEGOLand’s SEA LIFE. You can also experience animals in the wild while hiking, birding, taking a whale-watching tour , or simply going to a beach seals call home. La Jolla and Cabrillo National Monument also have excellent tide pools.
• Explore pocket neighborhoods: Downtown is a good place for your trip’s home base, but it by no means paints the full picture of what the city has to offer visitors. Little Italy has a great farmers market, trendy nightlife, and quality cafes. Hillcrest is the heart of the LGBTQ community . The historic Gaslamp Quarter buzzes at all times of the day thanks to museums, theaters, restaurants, bars, and clubs. North Park, South Park, and University Heights are hipster havens with taprooms, taquerias, boutiques, and thrift shops. Barrio Logan, once plagued by a bad reputation, is the epicenter of the city's Mexican-American culture and has become a hotspot for art. La Jolla, Del Mar, and Coronado are upscale enclaves with luxury hotels. And the beach-side hamlets, such as Ocean Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Solano Beach, are some of California’s chillest.

Explore more attractions with our full-length articles on the best free fun things to do with kids , Balboa Park’s coolest attractions , and where to catch an outdoor concert .

What to Eat and Drink

Like most of California, the San Diego culinary scene is culturally diverse and heavily influenced by the immigrants who work there or have moved there. Given the city’s proximity to Baja—the border is less than 20 miles away from downtown—you can gorge on Mexican cuisine all day, every day. There’s gourmet, fast-casual, fusion, and even vegan options. Area eateries especially excel at fish tacos aka battered and fried goodness wrapped in a soft tortilla with cabbage, salsa, crema, and lime. Also like the rest of California, there’s an emphasis on farm-to-table and pole-to-plate sourcing, which is easy to accomplish with access to fresh produce and seafood year-round. It’s home to 5,000 farmers and the county is the leading avocado producer in the nation.   Don’t forget to eat uni plucked straight from the sea, creative donuts, and the region’s other must-try dishes and ingredients .

It’s also the Craft Beer Capital of the US. There are so many breweries in town whipping up batches of West Coast IPAs, fruit sours, and just about every other suds style you can think of, that if you tried one a week it would currently take you more than three years to check every one off the list. These are 10 of the best . If you prefer a chardonnay to a coffee stout, there are a handful of wineries in the county like Bernardo and both Temecula wine country and Baja’s Valle De Guadalupe are short road trips. Also, if you are looking for something harder, craft cocktail bars like False Idol , Madison , and Noble Experiment are worth their weight in gold swizzle sticks.

Still hungry for ideas? Read about the best places to get fish tacos , five restaurants for romance , and the bars with the best views .

Where to Stay

It’s a big, busy city. Besides folks who come to enjoy everything we mentioned above, the city is also a military hub, home to several college campuses, and a popular convention city. Hotels are about 75 percent full on average,   and more than 85 percent during the busiest months like July when 150,000 characters descend on downtown, which drives up rates.  

Downtown has a lot of variety and is conveniently located near the airport and attractions. The enormous Hilton San Diego Bayfront recently updated its rooms and public spaces and is a great choice for people going to a convention or a baseball game (Petco Park is across the street). The Pendry is a luxury boutique in the center of late-night fun. The Intercontinental and The Guild Hotel offer chic stays within walking distance of Little Italy and the USS Midway. 

Other hotel clusters occur near the airport, in Mission Bay, and in Hotel Circle (just off I-5 or I-8). Beach resorts and posh properties can be found in Coronado, Pacific Beach, and La Jolla. 

Renting an Airbnb can be a cheaper option. Many of the available rentals in Ocean Beach, Bird Rock, and other seaside cities are a short stroll from a beach or have private pools. There’s also many great campgrounds .    

See the 10 of the best hotels, the best hotels catering to LGBTQ travelers , and the best beach hotels .

Getting There

San Diego International (SAN), the second certified carbon neutral airport in the country, is less than three miles from the downtown core. There are nearly 500 flights a day to and from more than 60 nonstop destinations in the U.S. and abroad on 17 airlines.   The city is also serviced by Greyhound and Amtrak, the latter of which has a gorgeous historic station in the heart of downtown and a track that often looks directly at the Pacific Ocean.

Public transportation is limited to a couple of Trolley lines, local commuter trains, and buses. Rideshares from companies like Uber and Lyft are readily available as are rentable bikes and electric scooters. But if you want to explore further afield (i.e. to go surfing in Encinitas, apple picking in Julian, wine tasting in Mexico’s Valle de Guadalupe,) or are traveling with a large group, you’ll want the convenience of having a rental car.

Money Saving Tips

• Family fun can be had at a discount in October through the Kids Free San Diego program, which started 30 years ago with the zoo letting children in for free to celebrate the month it was founded. Now more than 100 companies including popular attractions like LEGOLAND and the USS Midway, restaurants, and hotels participate. Usually, kids get free admission or food, but some of the deals revolve around welcome gifts or product rentals. Age limitations vary between partners. 

• The almost year-round good weather means that visitors can opt outside and take advantage of free activities like going to the beach, hiking, running through Balboa Park or along the San Diego Bay waterfront, or bird-watching on a free Sunday walk at the Tijuana River Estuary.

• Be art smart by investigating which museums offer free-entry days or hours. Some only have free days for residents but having a local friend might be enough to get you through the door. The street art scene is also thriving thus creating an al fresco exhibition. Downtown, Little Italy, University Heights, and Barrio Logan (check out Chicano Park ) are all neighborhoods with lots to look at and post to Instagram. 

• Invest in a Go San Diego pass. It promises to save holders up to 55 percent on gate and ticket prices at 55 attractions, tours, and experiences. To make the most of something like this, you and your travel companions have to be willing to pack your days fairly full.

• San Diego County is sprawling. In fact, it’s bigger than two states (Delaware and Rhode Island). If you want to see a lot of it, there’s no real option other than having a car. But if a trip is focused on a particular area or event, especially if said area is downtown or the Gaslamp Quarter, visitors should book a hotel in the area like the Hilton Sand Diego Bayfront and then walk, call a rideshare, rent a scooter or city bike, or use the MTS Trolley.

• SanDiego.org has compiled this list of 25 free things to do in town. See how it compares to ours . 

San Diego Tourism Authority. "San Diego Official Fall 2019 & Winter 2020 Visitor Guide." Page 10. Fall 2019.

San Diego County Farm Bureau. "Why Is Farming Important to San Diego County?"

Tourism Economics. "San Diego Travel Forecast." Page 5. December 2019.

San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. "Nonstop Destinations from San Diego."

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3 Days in San Diego Itinerary (Things to do + where to eat!)

Last updated on August 10th, 2023

Heading to San Diego soon? Our 3 day San Diego itinerary + guide is full of the best places to stay, how to get around, the best tacos and food, things to do, and so much more! San Diego is hands down one of our favorite larger cities in the United States. With beautiful beaches and scenery, great neighborhoods, a laid back vibe, nice parks, and awesome FOOD (the most important criteria!), it’s hard not to love San Diego. We have been thankful to visit the city twice together. And on both visits we have fallen in love with this city. During our trips we have gone for hikes, tried local coffee shops, eaten tons of tacos and unique local eats, seen stunning architecture, and enjoyed the coastal views. And have loved every second!

Watch us explore San Diego in one day , including a handful of the spots listed on this guide, plus go on a Mexican food tour !

San Diego is definitely a place that we could spend months in and never get bored. However, if you’re like us and do not have months to spend, we’re excited to share this 3 day San Diego itinerary full of delicious food, coffee shops, and fun things to do to help you prioritize your limited time in the city. In this guide we’re listing a variety of options, so that no matter what your food and activity preferences are, you’ll be able to craft the perfect San Diego adventure!

Looking for more ideas of things to do in California? Check out the rest of our California guides:

• How to have an EPIC Big Sur road trip! (Things to do + 1-3 day itinerary options!)
• The BEST things to do in San Luis Obispo, California (+ a 3 day itinerary!)
• 3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary
• The Best Things to do in Joshua Tree National Park
• The ULTIMATE Guide to Death Valley National Park
• Exploring Redwoods National and State Parks
• 3 Days in Lake Tahoe
• The Best Day Hike in Yosemite: The Four Mile Trail + Panorama Trail
• 3 Days in San Diego (Things to Do + Where to Eat)
• All of our California Guides
• All of our California Vlogs

About San Diego

When to visit san diego, getting to + around san diego, where to stay in san diego, 3 day san diego itinerary, if you have extra time….

Note: this blog contains affiliate links. Full disclosure– if you click on these links and make a purchase, we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. We will only ever recommend products we truly love, actually use during our adventures, and think you can benefit from too!

San Diego is California’s second largest city (by population) and is located on the Pacific Ocean, just miles from the border of Mexico. The city is known for its sunny weather, beaches, delicious food, parks, museums, and so much more. With mountains as well as the ocean, the city and surrounding area offers a wide variety of scenery and activities to enjoy and because of its proximity to Mexico, the city has a lot of Mexican influence, which provides a cultural experience while in the city. Note: San Diego is located in the Pacific Time Zone, so if traveling from Arizona, keep this in mind, as some months of the year (the summer) Arizona and California will be the same time, but other months (the winter) they will not.

Before embarking on your adventure, please review the  Leave No Trace principles  to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. 

There are many reasons to love San Diego, but the weather is definitely near the top of the list! With super mild temperatures year round, it’s always a good time to visit San Diego. The winter months may a bit chillier at the beach, but if you want to visit some parks and walk around town, the weather will be magical, especially if you live in a colder climate. We have visited San Diego in both January and February and the temperatures were amazing, with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s! On both trips we did have one day with rain, so be prepared to maybe experience some rain, as they do get more rain during the winter months. However, we think rainy days are the perfect days to go on a food tour in the city. The summertime in San Diego is the ultimate beach weather. The days are warm enough to lay out, but not too hot that you’ll sweat to death. But this is a busier time to visit, so the crowds and prices will be a bit higher. If you want lower crowds and prices, but still warmer weather, we suggest visiting during the spring and fall . The evenings can be a bit chillier, so make sure to pack layers!

San Diego is located in the very southwestern tip of California, right on the border of Mexico’s Baja California and close to Arizona, as well as other popular spots in California, making it a very convenient city to visit. Here is how to get there, depending on your mode of transportation.

Flying to San Diego

A huge perk about visiting San Diego is that the airport is right by downtown! In fact, it’s so close that you’ll get to see planes flying low over the city, which we thought was really cool! The San Diego International Airport (SAN) is less than 4 miles from downtown San Diego. It is a great airport with many nonstop domestic flights from most cities in the United States. So flying to and from San Diego should be pretty easy. And the best part? With the airport being that close to the city, you’ll get to start your vacation right away!

Driving to San Diego

If you’re already in California and want to visit San Diego, here’s how long you can expect to drive from nearby popular areas: Los Angeles, CA: 2 hours (120 miles) Palm Springs, CA: 2 hours (139 miles) Joshua Tree National Park: 2.5 hours (164 miles) Las Vegas, NV: 5 hours (332 miles) Phoenix, AZ: 5-5.5 hours (355 miles) San Francisco, CA: 8 hours (502 miles) Note: these times are without much traffic. So make sure to add a little bit of extra time in case you get stuck in that famous California traffic.

Getting Around San Diego

San Diego is one of those cities where you could rent a car , but you could also get away with public transportation or Uber/Lyft. It really depends on how far you want to go! We suggest looking at the ride sharing app’s fare estimator tools ( Uber , Lyft ) to see how much you’d expect to spend when getting around town to see what will be the best option for you. We have visited the city in both our previous small SUV and our current Sprinter Van and didn’t have much of an issue finding parking in the city. Sometimes we had to drive around a bit, but we always found a spot!

It’s no secret that we lov e VRBO! Not only is it usually more affordable than a hotel, but it allows you to experience a city and its culture like a local. And it’s no different for San Diego! San Diego has tons of cool and fun neighborhoods to stay in that will give you a true taste of the city.

• Option 1: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom house with a hot tub near Balboa Park
• Option 2: 1 bathroom studio apartment with ocean views
• Option 3: 1 bathroom studio that is pet friendly
• Option 4: 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom cottage in North Park

There are tons of hotel options in San Diego, ranging from chains, to resorts, to more local, boutique spots. Here are a handful to check out!

• Hotel del Coronado
• Hotel Indigo
• Manchester Grand Hyatt
• Moxy San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
• Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Campgrounds

During our latest visit to San Diego we stayed at the Tijuana River Valley Campground , which is a brand new campground with campsites (no hookups) and yurts right by the border of Mexico. It is super nice, wasn’t busy during our visit, affordable (we paid $80 total for 3 nights), had some trails and a cool nature playground, and paid showers. While not in the heart of the city, was relatively close to the main attractions. The only thing to note is that you will hear helicopters flying over the majority of the day, but they never kept us up at night.

Want to find campsites all over the US? Try the Dyrt PRO for FREE for one month! The Dyrt is the #1 camping app in the US! Sign up for a FREE 30 day trial of their PRO version using our code AplusK ! The Dyrt PRO offers many incredible features to make finding campsites even easier (+ cheaper). Some of our favorite features are: -Offline maps, so you can find campsites without cell service -Map layers to find free camping areas (+ cell phone service map layers) -Discounts from PRO partners and on campground bookings (up to 40%!)

It’s impossible to see the entire city of San Diego in three days, but if that is all you have, this San Diego itinerary is full of our favorite things that we did (and ate!) during our multiple trips to the city. We’re including some options for activities and restaurants that way you can craft this itinerary to fit your own preferences. Looking for even more ideas of things to do? Check out our “if you have extra time” section below!

• Kickoff your San Diego adventure with acai bowls for breakfast at Northside Shack . This is a grab and go spot and we recommend walking down to Shoreline Park to eat your acai bowl and enjoy water and city views. Rather have a more traditional breakfast? Hash House a Go Go and Breakfast Republic are popular choices!
• Grab coffee at Communal Coffee , which is a coffee shop, flower shop, and gift shop rolled into one. It is such a beautiful coffee shop and basically Kathryn’s version of heaven. We suggest trying their latte flight and getting at least one floral drink…you are in a flower shop afterall!
• Spend a few hours wandering around Balboa Park . This is a 1,200 acre park that is home to 16 museums, a zoo, gardens, and more! While we personally have not paid to visit any museums, we have always just loved walking around and seeing the ornate architecture. You could easily spend a whole day at this beautiful park , but some spots that we suggest visiting in the park are the Spanish Village Art Center (free), Botanical Building (free), the short Palm Canyon Trail , which has 450 palms (58 species!), and walking by the California Tower , which you can pay $30 (non-members) for a tour inside. And if you visit on the weekend (especially a Sunday), we suggest checking out the House of Pacific Relations – Hall of Nations , which has cottages that represent 32 cultures. On Sundays they have different events with dances, music, and food from these countries.  
• For lunch head to Ocean Beach and have lunch at Hodad’s Burgers , a famous burger spot with massive burgers and a cool interior, OR at Mike’s Taco Club to try either a California Burrito, which is a flour tortilla loaded with carne asada, cheese, pico/salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and most importantly, FRENCH FRIES! They also make some awesome Carne Asada fries!
• Walk around the Ocean Beach area and enjoy the beach for a bit. They have a great pier that you can walk on and watch surfers.
• Visit the Cabrillo National Monument , which is managed by the National Park Service and costs $20 per car (unless you have the America the Beautiful Pass ). This monument honors Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, who arrived at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542 from Europe and is said to be the first European to step foot on the West Coast. The park has a sculpture of him, a lighthouse, tide pools, and great coastal views, as well as shares history about 16th century exploration.  
• Watch the sunset from Sunset Cliffs Natural Park , which is just up the road from the Cabrillo National Monument and is FREE to access.
• For dinner, eat TACOS! There are so many spots we could recommend, but our top picks nearby would be: Kiko’s Place Seafood , which is a mariscos truck that serves up a delicious baja style fish taco, with fried white fish, cabbage, and a white sauce. They also are said to have great ceviche too! Note: they close around 8 PM, so if you visit in the summertime, you may want to go before sunset. City Tacos , which is not your traditional Mexican street taco joint, but more of a creative taco shop and we highly recommend their MexiCali taco, which has steak and mashed potatoes. They also have some unique salsas for your tacos and jicama to enjoy (pro tip: squeeze some lime and then shake some Tajín on top of the jicama…so good!) Looking for something a bit nicer? Buona Forchetta in South Park is a solid Italian spot. Try to get a reservation if you can!

• First things first: breakfast ! We suggest Kono’s Cafe for breakfast burritos by the beach (or you can visit one of the spots we suggested on day one). Afterwards, grab coffee at Bird Rock Coffee Roasters .  
• Head to La Jolla for the rest of the morning and afternoon. This is a beautiful town along the coast and has some of the best coastal scenery in the area. While here, see the sea lions and seals at Children’s Pool and La Jolla Cove . We always love hearing their noises and watching them play with each other! We also suggest relaxing at La Jolla Shores Beach , a mile long beach with lots of sand to lay out on. And if you’re up for a bit of an adventure go on a kayaking tour with Everyday California or check out the La Jolla Caves !  
• Grab lunch at The Taco Stand . They get VERY busy (we waited at least an hour in line!), but they make your food right after you order and you get your food very fast AND it’s delicious, which helps make up for the long lines.
• You must go to Bobboi Natural Gelato for a post-lunch dessert! This gelato spot is about as authentic Italian as it gets. We LOVED the pistachio flavor, but every flavor we tried was creamy and delicious.  
• Dogs are NOT allowed. 
• It costs between $15-$20 to park inside the reserve (the price varies on what day of the week). However, you can park outside of the reserve along the beach and walk in for FREE, which is what we did. 
• The reserve has set hours, opening at 7 AM and closing right at sunset.
• You can drive to different spots and walk to overlooks or hike all around, which is what we did. We hiked the Torrey Pines, Guy Fleming, EB Scripps Overlook, Red Butte and Razor Point Loop , which took us to most of the main overlooks, as well as down to the beach in around 4 miles.
• Do NOT walk on the beach close to high tide. The beach can become inaccessible. Make sure to check the tide schedule in advance to avoid getting in a dangerous situation.

After (hopefully) an incredible California sunset, get more tacos for dinner at Duke’s (one of our favorites from Hawaii…get the hula pie!), Oscar’s Mexican Seafood (are you sick of tacos yet? We hope not!), or one of the spots we mentioned on day one that you have yet to try.

• For breakfast, head to a local Mexican spot called Las Cuatro Milpas or venture a bit south to Ed Fernandez Restaurant Birrieria , which is a bit of a trek, but holy cow is it worth it! Their quesatacos de birria are phenomenal! And if you’re unsure what birria is, it’s a traditional Mexican dish from Jalisco and is marinated and stewed goat or beef (Ed Fernandez uses beef). Make sure to get some consome (the stew) to dip your tacos in!
• Grab coffee at one of the coffee shops in Barrio Logan. We went to Cafe Moto , which was a cool spot (don’t forget to visit their coffee roastery and museum behind the cafe!), but Cafe Virtuoso and Por Vida also look amazing!
• Spend a few hours relaxing at Coronado Beach . While you’re there, make sure to visit the famous and historic Victorian Hotel del Coronado .
• Head a little south of San Diego for lunch at Tacos el Gordo . This is one of our favorite taco shops EVER and totally worth the drive! We recommend their adobada tacos and also their loaded fries. We know we have suggested a lot of taco spots, but this is our #1 must visit in San Diego!
• For the rest of the day you have some options. Option #1: If you like beer, check out some of San Diego’s breweries ! We have heard that Ballast Point and Modern Times are both good, but since we don’t drink, we can’t personally recommend any breweries.   Option #2: Spend a few hours exploring the USS Midway Museum ! The museum costs $26 per adult (less for kids, seniors, and military) and is something at the VERY top of our list for next time. The USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the 20th century. It was commissioned 8 days after the end of World War II and was the largest ship in the world until 1955. She operated for 47 years, including in the Vietnam War and the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm. While in the area, make sure to get a photo with the famous kissing sculpture ! 

Option #3: Check out Old Town San Diego, which is the oldest neighborhood in San Diego and is where the first European settlement was. Here they have museums, restaurants, and historic sights.

• Head to Little Italy, which is an Italian neighborhood that at one time had 6,000 Italian families that called it home. While the area has lost some of its Italian culture, it still is one of our favorite areas to explore in the city. While here, grab dinner at one of the delicious spots in the area. The Crack Shack is a great quick and cheap option for fried chicken, Filippi’s Pizza Grotto or Landini’s Pizzeria for classic Italian, and Barbusa or Bencotto are nice, more upscale options.  
• If you have any energy left, grab drinks at False Idol or make your way to the Gaslamp Quarter , a lively area with lots of restaurants and bars. We hear Noble Experiment is a very cool spot, but make sure to get a reservation!

Coffee Shops:

• OB Beans Coffee Roasters
• Dark Horse Coffee Roasters
• James C offee
• Moniker Coffee
• Lucha Libre
• ¡SALUD TACOS!
• Humberto’s
• Lolita’s Mexican Food
• Herb & Eatery
• The Cottage
• Craft & Commerce
• The Kebab Shop
• Kettner Exchange
• Salt & Straw
• The Baked Bear
• Visit the famous San Diego Zoo
• Go to a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park
• Enjoy the views and have a picnic at Kate O. Sessions Park
• Northgate Market -This Mexican grocery store is a DREAM and has a salsa bar with massive tubs of amazing salsas. Highly recommend stopping here to buy some snack foods!
• Explore the beach towns north of San Diego: Carlsbad , Encinitas , and Oceanside
• Hike up to Iron Mountain -5.2 miles, 1,102 ft elevation gain. We tried this hike and got poured on and had zero views…who knew it rained in San Diego!
• Hike to Potato Chip Rock -7.6 miles, 2,106 ft elevation gain. The rock at the top really does look like a potato chip!
• Spruce Street Suspension Bridge – A quick little stop and not for those afraid of heights!
• For those with kids, go to Legoland ! I have super fond memories of going here as a kid.

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership ? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)! We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

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9 thoughts on “ 3 days in san diego itinerary (things to do + where to eat) ”.

Great guide, great spots! I love tacos so this will be perfect on my next trip to San Diego!

It’s a taco lovers paradise!

Your post took me back to my September on the West coast. I loved SAN Diego so much. The Taco Stand was the best tacos I had in the whole of California!

We LOVED it there too! We really want to go back soon to eat more tacos ? and to explore more of the areas around the city!

Thank you for this guide. We will be in San Diego January of 2022. I was looking for someone who could give us some in sight on where to go and what to eat. We will be staying in Chula Vista, in a airb&b. we can’t wait. You have giving me a lot of ideas. Thank you again

Yay! So happy to hear that! San Diego is such a beautiful, delicious, and fun city!

Hi Mary! I currently live in Chula Vista. It’s a beautiful area (Eastlake/otay lakes) but please know that it takes at least 20 (downtown) to 35 (la jolla) minutes to get to any of the San Diego hot spots! However, Chula Vista has some of the best Mexican food! The taco trucks you’ll see everywhere is where it’s at! I hope you enjoy your stay!

As a San Diego native, I am SO happy you mentioned city tacos!!! I feel like most people skip over it because it’s a little unique and they want more traditional. It’s SO good. I get it at least once a week! I’m so glad you enjoyed your stay here!

We loved it!!! Reminds us of some of our favorite taco spots in Austin, which are a bit unique too. We love trying all kinds of tacos 🙂

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Lifestyle Jessica

California Travel , San Diego Travel , Travel · May 31, 2023

The Perfect 3 Days in San Diego Itinerary & Travel Guide

Welcome to America’s Finest City! If you’re planning a trip to the stunning shores of Southern California, look no further than San Diego. With its picturesque coastline, vibrant neighborhoods, and an abundance of attractions, San Diego offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re a beach lover, a food enthusiast, or a nature enthusiast, this three-day itinerary and travel guide will ensure you make the most of your visit to this coastal gem.

Renting a Car

Having a car will make getting around San Diego much more convenient! On our first trip to San Diego back in 2021, we rented a car at the airport. This time around in 2023, we decided to try Turo for the first time, and loved it! The entire process of renting a car through Turo went very smoothly for us, and we had zero issues. I also found that renting through Turo can be cheaper than renting through a traditional car rental agency at the airport. How you go about getting a car is up to your preference, but I personally recommend having one to get around during your stay in San Diego!

Accommodations

Whether you’re planning a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, finding the perfect accommodations is essential to make the most of your stay in America’s Finest City. From luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy boutique hotels and budget-friendly options, San Diego offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences.

There are plenty of accommodation options in San Diego whether that be Airbnb, hotels, etc… As a budget-friendly traveler, I like to find options that rate well while being economical. While San Diego has the famous and beautiful Hotel del Coronado and other more notable places to stay, I was able to find a good and reasonably-priced hotel not far from downtown San Diego and the beaches.

After analyzing Airbnb costs and hotels on Booking.com , I found that booking a hotel was slightly cheaper this time around for our trip during mid-May. Although during our trip in September 2021, we stayed in a great, economical Airbnb. We were overall happy and satisfied with our stay at the Kings Inn Hotel in the Mission Valley area of San Diego. This spot had some of the cheapest accommodations offerings during the time frame of our trip while still having good ratings.

The Kings Inn is rated great on both Google and Booking.com. The staff is very friendly, the rooms are generally spacious and have everything one typically needs, and the hotel has a pool and hot tub on site. There is a parking fee of $15 per night at this hotel, but the hotel itself seems to be a relatively cheaper option compared to other spots in the area. I recommend checking out Booking.com and Airbnb to decide on an option that suits your needs, wants, and budget!

The Weather

San Diego boasts a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, temperate winters and warm, generally dry summers. This inviting weather makes it a year-round destination, but some seasons offer a more quintessential San Diego experience than others.

For those seeking the perfect balance of warmth and minimal crowds, the ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these periods, temperatures hover between the comfortable mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit, allowing visitors to explore the city’s countless outdoor attractions and golden beaches without sweltering heat or very chilly winds.

However, May and June can be exceptions to San Diego’s otherwise sunny reputation. While the rest of the year boasts abundant sunshine, these months often exhibit a phenomenon known locally as the “May Gray” and “June Gloom.” Despite the temporary gloom, the weather is still pleasant, with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit.

Our first visit to San Diego was in September 2021, and the weather was absolutely perfect reaching the high 70s and sunny! On our most recent trip to San Diego this May 2023, the weather was more brisk, generally in the low to mid-60s and cloudy. We did encounter some sun and a nearly 70-degree afternoon on one of our three days which was amazing! Despite May, June, and even July at times being overcast, San Diego is still beautiful to see during these months! If you are planning to spend your days on a hot and sunny beach, then I would recommend visiting during August or September.

Day 1: Arriving in San Diego

If possible, I recommend taking a flight that arrives in the morning or early afternoon, so that you can enjoy a full day exploring San Diego. For reference, my partner and I flew into San Diego from New Jersey, and the flight was roughly five hours. We landed in San Diego around noon and began our exploration from there.

• Morning: Have breakfast on the flight or at the airport.
• We were not able to check in to our hotel until 4 pm, but we made the most of our afternoon in San Diego by grabbing lunch and exploring a local beach.
• We did lunch at The Taco Stand’s Downtown San Diego location and absolutely loved kicking off our trip this way! The tacos are incredible! The Taco Stand has multiple locations throughout San Diego that you can visit.

• We wandered around the Gaslamp Quarter for about an hour and enjoyed delicious ice cream from Cali Cream. While in this area, visitors can also see the Petco Park baseball stadium where the San Diego Padres play!

• We spent about an hour or two at Ocean Beach and loved the chill vibe and beautiful flowers surrounding it.

• Late Afternoon: Check into your accommodations if you have not already, and prepare for a casual evening and dinner.
• Old Town San Diego is a historic neighborhood that takes visitors back in time to the early days of the city. It showcases the rich cultural heritage and Spanish influence with its preserved adobe buildings, museums, vibrant shops, and delicious Mexican cuisine, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and food enthusiasts alike.

Day 2: Exploring La Jolla & More

• The food, ambiance, and service here are superb!

• Mid-morning to early afternoon: Explore the beauty and sights of the La Jolla area. Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California, La Jolla is a true gem waiting to be discovered. With its beaches, rugged cliffs, and vibrant marine life, this coastal community offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and upscale charm. Take a stroll along the shores of La Jolla Cove, where you can witness playful seals and sea lions, or explore the quaint village area with its boutique shops, art galleries, and world-class dining options. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing day by the ocean, La Jolla promises an unforgettable exploration of California’s coastal wonders.

• Windansea Beach
• La Jolla Tide Pools
• Children’s Pool La Jolla
• La Jolla Cove
• Coast Walk Trail

• The tacos here are some of the BEST in San Diego, and we thoroughly enjoyed dining here twice during our trip! The churros are mouth-watering as well!

• The Parry Grove Trail at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a nature lover’s paradise. As you traverse this moderate scenic trail, you’ll be surrounded by majestic Torrey pine trees, unique coastal vegetation, and breathtaking ocean views.

• There are a bunch of trails at Torrey Pines, and I recommend spending at least 2-3 hours here.
• There is a fee of $15 to $25 per vehicle (depending on the day of the visit) to park in the main lots in Torrey Pines. These lots are worth paying for if you don’t have too much time, as they are conveniently located near most of the trails.

• Italian food at Buona Forchetta in South Park. Their handmade pasta and Neapolitan-style pizza are incredible! They also have a few other locations in the area including one on Coronado Island.

• After Dinner: Walk around the Pacific Beach area, and enjoy a delicious dessert at The Baked Bear.

Day 3: Exploring San Diego

• Everything I’ve eaten here has been incredible from the fluffy pancakes to the avocado toast to the croissant breakfast sandwich, etc…
• Their Mocha Chip shake is also a delicious treat to sip on as it is made with vanilla ice cream, espresso, and decadent chocolate chips!

• Late morning: Enjoy a stroll along Mission Beach.
• Afternoon: Drive to Balboa Park and explore the grounds and architecture of this charming property. There are both free and paid attractions within Balboa Park and if you are only spending 2-3 hours here, then you can definitely explore a lot of the free areas. Also, if you are considering visiting the San Diego Zoo, then I would recommend budgeting an entire day or afternoon here as the tickets can get pricy and there is a lot to cover. We skipped the zoo as we didn’t feel we had enough time to get our money’s worth, but we have heard about how awesome it is.

• Stroll by the famous Hotel Del Coronado while here!

• Late lunch or snack time: Grab a quick bite such as chips, guacamole, burritos, and more while on Coronado Island at Clayton’s Mexican Take Out.
• Cesarina is an incredible spot for delicious and authentic Italian eats in a stunning atmosphere. The service is extremely attentive, and we had the best time here! Our dining experience at Cesarina was 10/10!!!

After Dinner: Visit the Sunset Cliffs Natural Park and take in the stunning coastal views lined with vibrant flora. There is a free parking lot next to the access points for the trails. I recommend arriving at least thirty minutes before sunset to give yourself time to explore before it gets dark. On weekends, this spot can get crowded, so it is advised to arrive a little earlier to ensure you can get a parking spot. We had no issue with parking as we visited on a Thursday in May.

Day 4: San Diego to Palm Springs (BONUS DAY)

Our 3-day trip to San Diego was followed by a few days in Palm Springs, which I will share an itinerary for in a separate blog post. Below is a rough outline of our timed itinerary for our drive from San Diego to Palm Springs.

• 8:00 AM – 8:25 AM : Check out of the San Diego accommodation and drive north along the coast.
• 8:25 AM – 8:45 AM : Make a quick scenic stop at Sunset Seat in Del Mar. This is a small attraction off the side of the road that you can see very quickly (maybe budget 15 minutes).
• 8:45 AM – 8:55 AM : Drive from Sunset Seat to Powerhouse Beach in Del Mar.

• 8:55 AM – 9:30 AM : Explore Powerhouse Beach and enjoy the sandy shores.
• 9:30 AM – 9:45 AM : Drive to downtown Encinitas.
• 9:45 AM – 10:45 AM : Get a tasty breakfast at the 101 Diner in Encinitas.

• 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM : Take a brief walk to the D-Street Viewpoint Park in Encinitas and walk down the stairs to the beach and check it out. This beach is super rocky, so I recommend having good shoes on for this. You also may notice a lot of surfers here!

• The fields are open seasonally, and depending on the timeframe of your trip, I would look into this.
• Tickets had to be purchased in advance and were $26.08/pp after fees during our visit in mid-May.
• 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM : Explore The Flower Fields in Carlsbad. As of late May 2023, the Flower Fields are closed , and will reopen in 2024!

• The drive from Encinitas to Palm Springs can take anywhere from 2-3+ hours depending on traffic.

San Diego Recap

Overall, San Diego is a beautiful coastal area in Southern California that is definitely worth checking out! From the sandy shores to incredible food to a plethora of attractions, San Diego is a perfect long weekend trip on the West Coast. Don’t forget to check out my San Diego vlog on YouTube for a visual guide/itinerary – COMING VERY SOON!

Comment below your favorite thing to do and/or favorite spot to eat in San Diego!

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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 .)

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This California Destination Is the 8th Largest City in the U.S. — and It's Home to Casual Beach Towns, Family Theme Parks, and Beautiful Golf Courses

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Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

San Diego, one of 18 cities in Southern California's San Diego County, is the eighth largest city in the United States. Sharing a border with Mexico, San Diego is known for its mild, dry climate, with a year-round temperature average of around 68 degrees F (20 degrees Celsius) and low rainfall, occurring mostly between December and March. Coastal areas are generally cooler than inland parts of the city.

Like most large cities, San Diego encompasses a variety of neighborhoods and communities, including casual beach towns, downtown business areas, and both new and historical sections. Tourism is a major industry, attracting visitors to its 70 miles of beaches, family theme parks and attractions, museums, golf courses, craft breweries, restaurants, and stellar hotels .

San Diego is home to several military installations, dating back to the early 20th century when the U.S. Navy established a base there. The Coast Guard has a base on San Diego Bay, and the U.S. Marines have installations at Miramar and Camp Pendleton. The aircraft carrier U.S.S. Midway is a museum and tourist attraction.

Pacific Standard Time (Daylight Savings Time, seasonal; dates vary)

Moderate temperatures year round along with minimal rainfall make just about any time lovely in San Diego. Summer is beach season, and visitors enjoy sunny weather and warm water in the ocean and bay for water sports like surfing, paddle boarding, swimming, and boating. The sea and air are cooler during winter months, still pleasant for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and walking along the shore.

The San Diego County Fair, an annual event at Del Mar Fairgrounds, was first held in 1880, and the most recent fair saw more than 1,500,000 visitors.

San Diego is a dog-friendly destination, with a variety of hotels, restaurants, parks, beaches, and activities that will welcome your furry friend.

In the town of La Jolla, you can watch the seals and sea lions that have taken over the Children's Pool Beach. They can be seen from the cliffs at La Jolla Cove.

In San Diego, you can find both ocean beaches with waves for surfing and calm bays for easy swimming.

Buses: For bus schedules and information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System website. Refer to the map and timetable to plan your trip. In San Diego's North County, the Breeze System provides service.

Trolley Service: Three trolley lines (blue, orange, green) service downtown San Diego communities and beyond. They run an average of every 15 minutes. For information, visit the Metropolitan Transit System website.

Waterfront Shuttle: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, the Waterfront Shuttle makes eight stops along the Bayfront from Harbor Island to the South Embarcadero near the San Diego Convention Center. For information visit the website.

Mission Bay & Beachfront

The catamaran resort & spa.

Address: 3999 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-1081 Book Now

Tropical landscaping and decor create an elegant atmosphere, and with a patio or balcony in every room, views are guaranteed. Set on a sandy beach on Mission Bay, the resort includes refrigerators, coffee makers, pool, jacuzzi, and bike rentals.

Paradise Point Resort & Spa

Address: 1404 Vacation Road, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (855) 463-3361 Book Now

This family resort on Mission Bay near SeaWorld features five pools, a mile-long beach, tennis courts, bonfire pits, putting course, beach cruisers, two waterfront restaurants, and a private marina on its 44-acre island. Bungalow-style rooms are set among lagoons and tropical gardens.

Bahia Resort Hotel

Address: 998 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-0551 Book Now

The Bahia is set on a private 14-acre peninsula on Mission Bay less than five minutes from SeaWorld. Amenities include a pool, arcade, tennis courts, shuffleboard, beachfront cabanas, and complimentary cruises on the Bahia Belle, its Mississippi-style sternwheeler.

Kona Kai Resort & Spa

Address: 1551 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 Phone: (619) 452-3138 Book Now

Located on the tip of Shelter Island near the Point Loma neighborhood, the Kona Kai offers waterfront accommodations, a fitness center, two waterfront pools, and locally sourced cuisine served at Vessel with sea breezes and views.

Hotel del Coronado

Address: 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118 Phone: (619) 435-6611 Book Now

The iconic hotel offers a variety of accommodations including rooms, suites, newly renovated cabanas, and beachfront suites at the Beach Village with patios facing the sand and ocean. A variety of dining venues, shops, and expansive beach make a stay at the Del a memorable experience.

Downtown/Gaslamp District

Manchester grand hyatt.

Address: 1 Market Place, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 232-1234 Book Now

This waterfront hotel near Seaport Village offers a resort-like feel in the midst of downtown. Visitors love having views of the sea along with a convenient location and upscale amenities.

Andaz, San Diego

Address: 600 F Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 849-1234 Book Now

Set in a historic 1913 building and updated in contemporary style, the Andaz offers guestrooms and suites, pool, private cabanas, Andaz Wine Bar, and a rooftop bar and lounge with views of the San Diego skyline.

Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter

Address: 509 Ninth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (877) 846-3446 Book Now

Conveniently located near the Convention Center and Petco Park, this pet-friendly boutique hotel boasts a roof garden and Level 9 Rooftop Bar with cozy fire pits for chilly evenings.

The U.S. Grant, San Diego

Address: 326 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 232-3121 Book Now

This historic hotel dates to around 1910, and a major renovation retained its vintage style and elegance. Visitors enjoy cocktails in the Grand Grill Lounge or French-inspired Rendezvous Bar. A spa, fitness center, and luxurious guest rooms and suites make it a popular choice.

Pendry San Diego

Address: 550 J Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 738-7000 Book Now

This modern hotel offers a spa, rooftop pool, and several dining and entertainment venues, including a beer hall and fine dining restaurant. The Pool House, their rooftop lounge, provides poolside service and sunset views from the pool or hot tub.

The Lodge at Torrey Pines

Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 453-4420 Book Now

The elegant Lodge offers early California Craftsman style with expansive public spaces with fireplaces, overstuffed furniture, leather chairs, and views of the Pacific and Torrey Pines Golf Course.

La Valencia Hotel

Address: 1132 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 476-6870 Book Now

Set atop the La Jolla Cove among fashionable shops, galleries, and beaches, the Mediterranean-style La Valencia, nicknamed "the Pink Lady," offers luxurious accommodations, romantic courtyards, Spanish mosaics, ocean views, and lush tropical landscaping.

La Jolla Shores Hotel

Address: 8110 Camino del Oro, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 923-8058 Book Now

Set directly on the beach for a romantic oceanfront stay, the hotel's amenities include an outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, year-round kayaking, s’mores nights, bike rentals, and yoga classes. Savor Baja-inspired coastal cuisine and epic ocean views at The Shores restaurant.

Estancia La Jolla

Address: 9700 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (855) 318-7602 Book Now

The hotel is set among nine acres of lush gardens, featuring a spa, saltwater pool, and outdoor wellness activities and yoga classes. Its prime location near elegant La Jolla's attractions and University of California San Diego make it an attractive destination.

Inland - Mission Valley and Old Town

Town and country san diego.

Address: 500 Hotel Circle N, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 291-7131 Book Now

With a complete renovation, the 1953 property has added a host of new amenities while retaining its mid-century modern charm. A sun-drenched pool complex with the new Twister, a four-story-high water slide, colorful artwork, bright yellow accents, and new furnishings make the hotel a delightful place to stay.

San Diego Marriott Mission Valley

Address: 8757 Rio San Diego Drive, San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 692-3800 Book Now

Conveniently located near San Diego State University, Old Town, and SDCCU Stadium, the hotel offers a fitness center and outdoor pool with a waterfall. There's casual dining at DEN and an upgrade available for access to the M Club Lounge featuring complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks.

Downtown, Gaslamp District, and Little Italy

Rustic root.

Address: 535 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

American cuisine with a modern touch and a menu of locally sourced meats, produce, and seafood is their specialty. Craft cocktails and a rooftop with skyline views add to the experience. Reservations are recommended.

Address: 366 Fifth Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Helmed by Michelin-starred celebrity chef Akira Back, Lumi offers creative Japanese dishes and sushi along with views of the city from his rooftop. Cocktails, Japanese whiskey, and DJ beats provide a lively atmosphere. Reservations are recommended.

Herb & Wood

Address: 2210 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 955-8495 Website

The extensive menu includes seafood, meat, salads, pasta, toasts, wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails, and a dessert menu that might tempt you to start there first. Brunch is also a treat at this popular spot. Reservations are suggested.

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Address: 1654 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Their menu of shellfish, finfish, chowders, small plates, big platters, lobster, cocktails, beer, and wine along with weekday happy hours make this a popular spot. Reservations are suggested.

Juniper and Ivy

Address: 2228 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 269-9036 Website

Set in a renovated warehouse, the atmosphere is relaxed, and dishes are tasty and artfully presented. Their imaginative food is based on seasonal local ingredients treated to the creativity of a team of chefs. Reservations are recommended.

Born and Raised

Address: 1909 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Elevated steakhouse cuisine with a menu that includes luxurious dry-aged steaks and Wagyu beef. Retro touches like tableside presentation of Caesar salads and steak tartare make for a delicious and entertaining experience. Reservations are recommended.

Civico 1845

Address: 1845 India Street, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 431-5990 Website

Civico 1845 serves traditional southern Italian dishes, an expansive menu, and a selection of cheeses and cured meats in addition to a separate vegan menu. Their outdoor patio offers a pleasant spot for al fresco dining. Reservations are suggested.

Little Italy Food Hall

Address: 550 W. Date Street, Suite B, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 269-7187 Website

Located at the Piazza della Famiglia , the food hall features six food stations and a full bar. Choose to dine on pizza, tacos, pasta, Asian dumplings, or lobster and save room for Bobboi's Natural Gelato for dessert.

Nine-Ten Restaurant and Bar

Address: 910 Prospect Street, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 964-5400 Website

Recognized with awards for chef Jason Knibb, sommelier Chris Russo, its wine list, cocktails, and more, Nine-Ten serves an eclectic menu of creatively prepared farm-to-table ingredients. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch provide a variety of opportunities to sample its dishes, from salmon benedict in the morning to butternut squash risotto at dinner. Reservations are recommended.

A.R. Valentien

Address: 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 453-4420 Website

Set in an elegant craftsman-style dining room, A.R. Valentien serves regional cuisine overlooking the 18th hole of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the California Coast. Outdoor seating is available, and reservations are recommended.

Address: 1025 Prospect Street, Suite 210, La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: (858) 459-0040 Website

The breakfast menu includes French toast, blueberry pancakes, chilaquiles, crab cake benedict, omelets, and more served on their ocean-view patio. Choose from the breakfast menu at lunchtime too, or take advantage of their weekday happy hour.

Louisiana Purchase

Address: 2305 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 255-8278 Website

They serve the best of Creole and Cajun classics like gumbo, po' boys, crawfish, catfish, collard greens, and Southern flavors along with cocktails and unique shareable punches.

The Smoking Goat

Address: 3408 30th Street, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 955-5295 Website

This intimate French bistro has an enthusiastic following of fans of their baked brie and duck fat truffle fries served during happy hour. The dinner menu includes seafood, steak, and lamb with seasonal additions and an extensive wine list.

Shank & Bone

Address: 2930 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104 Phone: (619) 458-9085 Website

Traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes include a selection of pho, spring rolls, bowls, rice dishes, and banh mi sandwiches. The colorful, casual atmosphere includes a large mural, and outdoor tables are available. Reservations are suggested.

Mission Hills

Farmer's bottega.

Address: 860 West Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 458-9929 Website

They serve traditional Italian dishes with a focus on organic, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is vintage, with the rustic feel of a farmhouse. Come for weekend brunch and daily happy hour.

Blue Water Seafood

Address: 3667 India Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 497-0914 Website

This is the place for fresh local seafood, tacos, sandwiches, salads, soups, oysters, and sashimi — all from the nearby seas. There's an Ocean Beach location too.

Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar

Address: 902 West Washington Street, San Diego, CA 92103 Phone: (619) 955-8451 Website

They serve breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Weekly specials include Maine lobster Thursdays, Taco Tuesdays, Prime Rib Fridays, and Southern Fried Chicken Saturdays.

Barrio Logan

Address: 2196 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113 Phone: (619) 255-3856 Website

Tacos and street food-style offerings are the specialty at this popular dining spot, and their "not tacos" menu includes ceviche, fries, quesadillas, and more. Sip a margarita, horchata, or michelada, and stop in for weekday happy hours.

Barrio Dogg

Address: 2234 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113 Phone: (619) 546-7889 Website

This popular spot is open all day serving high-quality, organic, 100% Angus beef hot dogs embellished in Chicago, TJ, Asian, Cuban, and German style, along with fries to match. Side dishes include Elotitos sweet corn, nopalitos, and mama's macaroni. Enjoy along with local beers.

Multiple Locations around San Diego

Crack shack.

Address: 2266 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 795-3299 Website

Chicken is their specialty — fried, sandwiched, smoked, grilled, served in bowls and salads and accompanied by Mexican poutine, fries, and biscuits. Other locations include Encinitas, Costa Mesa, Pasadena, and Las Vegas.

Buona Forchetta

Address: 30001 Beech Street, San Diego, CA 92102 Website

They serve a full menu including antipasti, salads, pastas, and vegan selections, but their specialty is Pizza Napoletana baked in authentic wood-fired Italian ovens. Locations in the San Diego area include Encinitas, South Park, Coronado, and Liberty Station.

Belmont Park

Address: 3146 Mission Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92109 Website

Go back in time to an old-style beachside amusement park with rides, arcades, and views of the Pacific. The Giant Dipper Roller Coaster was originally built in 1925, and its restoration in the early 1990s included all new tracks, thousands of board feet of lumber, and two new trains with modern restraint systems. It retains the vintage look of its original era of wooden roller coasters.

While you're at the Mission Beach amusement park, stop for a snack or play a game at the arcade.

Sharyn Umana-Angers/Travel + Leisure

Address: 100 Park Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 795-5555 Website

Conveniently located in downtown San Diego, this magnificent baseball stadium is home to the Padres, and it's also a venue for concerts, soccer, and special events. A delightful place to watch baseball, the park also provides views of the city and delicious foods including grilled fish tacos, BBQ, burgers, pizza, and of course, hot dogs and ice cream. Visit for a behind-the-scenes tour, sit in the dugout, and see the pressbox, Visitors' Clubhouse, and more.

Maritime Museum of San Diego

Address: 1492 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

The museum features a world-class collection that includes sailing ships, steam-powered ships, and submarines. Sailing ships include the Star of India, the world's oldest active sailing ship, and the 555 USS Dolphin, the deepest diving submarine in the world. Permanent exhibits cover sea monster myths, photography, navigation, and lots more.

Cabrillo National Monument

Address: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Drive, San Diego, CA 92106 Website

This national park celebrates the 1542 arrival of Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, the first European to set foot on what is now the West Coast of the U.S. It's a great place for tide pool exploration, hiking, history, and spectacular views of downtown San Diego.

San Diego Zoo

Address: 2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 231-1515 Website

This world-famous zoo in Balboa Park houses more than 4,000 animals including giant pandas from China and many rare and endangered species. Take a guided tour on a double-decker bus or a ride on the Skyfari for an aerial view. For a special experience, try the Early Morning Photo Expedition or Sunrise Surprise Stroll before the zoo opens for the day.

SeaWorld San Diego

Address: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (619) 422-4732 Website

SeaWorld's dolphins, orcas, Beluga whales, otters, turtles, penguins, fish, and other sea creatures entertain, educate, and make us appreciate their beauty and value their presence.

You'll also see flamingos, macaws, and have an opportunity to watch animal specialists feed the penguins, sea turtles, and others. Watch sharks from their amazing underwater tunnel.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Address: 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, CA 92027 Website

Take a wildlife safari in the back of a covered, open-air safari truck with an expert guide to get a close-up view of a variety of birds and mammals. You can enjoy wide-open views of giraffe herds, rhinos, and a variety of African wildlife in a private cabana with a dedicated host to share stories about the animals. See beautiful cheetahs at Shiley's Cheetah Run on an early morning stroll along with an experienced guide.

Balboa Park

Chelsea Loren/Travel + Leisure

Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 Website

Balboa Park is home to 17 museums, more than 10 performing arts spaces, nearly 20 gardens, shops, dining spots, and attractions like the carousel, miniature train, and the San Diego Zoo. Start at the Visitors Center to plan your day or days — you could spend a week there and not see it all. Decide on a museum or two, stroll through a garden, and download the Balboa Park app to your smartphone to guide you all day.

Mission Bay Aquatic Center

Address: 1001 Santa Clara Place, San Diego, CA 92109 Phone: (858) 488-1000 Website

At one of the world's largest instructional waterfront facilities, you can learn surfing, sailing, water skiing, kayaking, windsurfing, stand up paddleboarding, and more. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, sailboat or other water sports equipment, and if you're new at it, this is the place to learn how to enjoy watersports safely.

U.S.S. Midway Museum

Address: 910 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 544-9600 Website

This historic aircraft carrier is open for self-guided audio tours and guided tours of the bridge and more. Exhibits include more than 30 restored aircraft, flight simulators, flight deck, admiral's cabin, and more. As a bonus, the flight deck provides views of San Diego's downtown skyline, the San Diego Bay Bridge, and active U.S. Navy ships.

Mission Bay Bike Path

Address: 850 West Mission Bay Drive, San Diego, CA 92109 Website

Nearly 12 miles of flat, scenic paved paths wind around Mission Bay, taking you through public parks and wildlife reserves. You'll ride past SeaWorld and Belmont Park, enjoying the sea breeze and views on the way. Bike rentals are available along Mission Boulevard.

Address: Caesar E. Chavez Parkway at Main Street, San Diego, CA 92113 Website

The historic neighborhood is home to artists, designers, galleries, and a growing display of public art — the largest collection of Chicano murals in the world. Authentic Mexican food is another good reason to visit Barrio Logan. Enjoy homemade tortillas, spicy tacos, refreshing paletas (ice pops), and agua frescas or a local craft beer.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Address: San Diego Avenue at Twiggs Street, San Diego, CA Website

Learn about life in the early days of San Diego in the early 19th century when it began as a Mexican pueblo. Visit the Whaley House Museum, one of only two officially designated haunted houses in California. Enjoy authentic Mexican food, mariachi entertainment, and shopping for souvenirs and snacks.

Swim With Sharks

Address : La Jolla Shores Beach, northern end of La Jolla

When you tell your friends you swam with sharks in San Diego, you might forget to mention that they were harmless Leopard sharks , named for their yellow and black markings. The creatures, from four to five feet long, arrive in early June and peak in numbers during August and September when they seek the abundant food in the warm, shallow water of La Jolla Shores. All you need is a snorkel and swim fins to watch the sharks swim by below.

Coronado Ferry

Address: 990 North Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 234-4111

A bargain at only $5, this scenic boat ride takes you across the bay to the Coronado Ferry Landing for shopping, dining, and exploring Coronado Island. Enjoy the views and sea air during the 15-minute ride.

Rent a Boat or Take a Boat Tour

In a city bordered by the ocean and home to a huge bay, a cruise is a natural way to see the sights from another perspective. With so many to choose from, you'll find one that's just your speed. Whether you want a sailboat, speedboat, dinner cruise, whale watching trip, or sunset harbor cruise, don't miss a chance to see San Diego from the sea.

Whale Watching

If you visit during the whale migration times of year, you can see the amazing creatures from land or sea. From mid-December through April, more than 20,000 gray whales travel between Alaska and Baja California, passing San Diego on their journey. Blue whales, the largest creatures on earth, can be found off San Diego's coast from mid-June through September. The blue whales travel further out to sea, so a boat tour is a better way to view them.

Hiking in San Diego

The moderate weather is ideal for outdoor activities, and San Diego offers many hiking trails with a range of difficulty. Mission Trails Regional Park , just 12 miles from downtown, provides a variety of hikes as well as Lake Murray. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in La Jolla is another favorite of hikers who enjoy views of the ocean and the reserve along with wildlife that includes birds, rabbits, mule deer, lizards, and snakes.

Balboa Park Museum Shops

Throughout the park, museum stores and artisans provide the opportunity to take home a prized item, gift, or souvenir. For example, the Spanish Village Arts Center is a community of more than 200 artisans offering paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photographs, prints, baskets, as well as glass, clay, and fiber art. The San Diego Museum of Art store offers books, prints, handmade jewelry, toys, games, and even chocolates in art-decorated tins. The San Diego History Center Museum Store features books, historic photographs, memorabilia, jewelry, and handmade items by local artisans.

Liberty Station

Address: 2850 Womble Road, San Diego, CA 92106 Website

In San Diego's Point Loma community, Liberty Station, once the Naval Training Center dating back to 1923, is now a venue for art, entertainment, dining, and shopping. The multi-use community is home to restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries, museums, office spaces, and parks.

Address: 3725 Paseo Place, San Diego, CA 92130 Phone: (858) 523-2298 Website

You can live, work, and shop at One Paseo, and it's a pleasant place to browse the boutiques or stop for a bite. A variety of specialty shops offer apparel, home decor, beauty and wellness products, swimwear, jewelry, shoes, and more.

Seaport Village

Address: 849 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: (619) 530-0704 Website

For waterfront shopping and dining near downtown, Seaport Village offers casual browsing, souvenirs, clothing, and specialty shops. Look for toys, collectibles, games, novelty items, kites, beach apparel, and more. Grab a bite to eat or a glass of wine while you're there.

Westfield UTC (University Town Center)

Address: 4545 La Jolla Village Drive, San Diego, CA 92122 Phone: (858) 546-8858 Website

Recently renovated, this open-air shopping, dining, and entertainment destination offers luxury brands, excellent customer service, and a family-friendly experience. Nordstrom, Macy's, and more than 200 shops and restaurants make it a favorite with locals and visitors alike.

Fashion Valley

Address: 7007 Friars Road, San Diego, CA 92108 Website

This trendy destination in Mission Valley features Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Nordstrom, Macy's, and designer houses like Gucci, Prada, Ferragamo, and Saint Laurent.

Westfield Mission Valley

Address: 1640 Camino Del Rio, North San Diego, CA 92108 Phone: (619) 296-6375 Website

This open-air mall features Bloomingdale's Outlet, Nordstrom Rack, Macy's Home, and Vans as well as restaurants and a movie theater.

Las Americas Premium Outlets

Address: 4211 Camino de la Plaza, San Diego, CA 92173 Phone: (619) 934-8400 Website

Located about 20 minutes south of downtown San Diego, the outlet mall includes 125 stores in an outdoor courtyard setting. Name brand and designer stores as well as a variety of eateries make it a popular shopping stop.

La Jolla offers beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, luxury hotels, and outdoor recreation. La Jolla Underwater Park and Ecological Reserve thrives with marine life, and in Torrey Pines, there's hiking and an array of native wildlife. Internationally recognized Torrey Pines Golf Course is nearby.

Gaslamp Quarter is a 16-block area in the historic heart of downtown San Diego, a lively dining, entertainment, and shopping district. More than 100 restaurants, 40 bars and nightclubs, theaters, art galleries, and shops as well as luxury hotels make it a popular destination.

Little Italy was once home to the tuna fishing industry and Italian families who settled there. Now the lively neighborhood is filled with restaurants, pubs, art galleries, and boutiques. India Street is the main thoroughfare, and Kettner Street is the place for new, popular restaurants.

Barrio Logan is home to Mexican street art, focused on Chicago Park beneath the San Diego-Coronado Bridge overpass, where a display of colorful murals are painted on the bridge's pillars. Authentic Mexican food, artist studios, bakeries, and a brewery attract visitors as well.

Hillcrest is located next to Balboa Park, minutes from downtown. The hub of San Diego's LGBTQ+ community, Hillcrest is known for eclectic nightlife, casual dining, chic boutiques, and vintage clothing stores. The main thoroughfares are University Avenue and tree-lined Fifth Avenue.

University Heights , adjacent to Hillcrest, features historic and renovated craftsman-style homes, shopping, nightlife, and dining. Its main thoroughfare, Park Boulevard, is home to popular eateries, shops, and lounges.

Coronado is located across the bay from downtown San Diego. Beaches, shops, and the historic Hotel del Coronado attract visitors. Orange Avenue, Coronado's main thoroughfare, is lined with restaurants, galleries, and theaters.

San Diego is known for its moderate, near perfect climate . Temperatures vary, with warmer areas inland and cooler near the ocean often with morning clouds. Annual precipitation is rarely above ten inches, with the majority occurring between December and March.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 48 - 65 February 65 - 76 March 61 - 73 April 54 - 69 May 67 - 76 June 65 - 75 July 62 - 71 August 59 - 69 September 56 - 67 October 53 - 66 November 51 - 65 December 49 - 65

A variety of smartphone apps are available to make a visit to San Diego convenient and easy.

Balboa Park Official Mobile App is an interactive guide to the park with details on museums, eateries, schedules, and more.

For transportation, apps for Uber and RideYellow make getting around easy.

SpotAngel helps drivers find street parking and understand local rules.

SeaWorld 's app provides GPS navigation, search, show times, and up-to-date wait times for rides.

Legoland 's app provides a park map and overview of rides, shops, dining, and ticket information.

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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,

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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 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).

Recent visitors observe that the Birch is nowhere near as large as SeaWorld (and doesn't house any rides), but nonetheless merits a couple hours of your time, especially if you’re traveling with kids. Plus, it's a fraction of the cost of a SeaWorld visit.

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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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From hiking trails to a classic steakhouse, these recommendations are the perfect itinerary.

Sunset’s  Insider Guide series  highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts.

Courtesy of CH Projects

Meet the Insider: Alicia Perry, beverage director at Consortium Holdings

Location: San Diego, California

Alicia Perry is a born-and-raised San Diegan who’s been working with Consortium Holdings for nearly eight years. The company is known for crafting some of the city’s top-tier cocktail bars and restaurants, and most recently unveiled a massive seven-outlet F&B project at the Lafayette Hotel . The 1940s property has been meticulously restored, bringing Hollywood’s golden-era glamour and high design to the North Park neighborhood. Here are Perry’s recommendations for what to explore on your next visit.

Kimberly Motos

“Naturally, I can’t help but recommend The Lafayette Hotel . With its rebirth being so close to our hearts, we aimed to create a space that would remain energized and supported by its local community—all the while evoking interest of travelers both nationally and globally.“ 

John Apps/Unsplash

“I would start off my morning with a visit to one of my favorite coffee shops in North Park,  Hawthorn Coffee . Otherwise, make a quick trip up to Bird Rock , and enjoy an almond croissant from Wayfarer Bread , a bakery that focuses on artisan loaves. Trekking north up the coast, Torrey Pines is a great hike. Otherwise, the Solana Beach area is great, Seascape Surf to be exact.”

Cowboy Star

Following a long day out in the sun, Perry says, “I’d make my way back down to the central area for dinner and a cocktail, starting at Cowboy Star ,” a classic steakhouse “that provides a consistent yet elevated experience. The space itself is warm, inviting, and certainly dignified.” 

Reservations are released at the beginning of the month for the following month at Soichi Sushi . “The wait-list alone sets the tone. The experience is unmatched, intimate, engaging, and refined. Chef Soichi Kadoya, now a Michelin one-star, provides a thoughtful and distinguished dining experience.”

“Sitting under the skylight at the The Lafayette Hotel Lobby Bar while taking in the sun and enjoying a Pimm’s Cup or Brandy Crusta is the way to go. Walking into the Realm of the 52 Remedies , you can’t help but to be enamored of the decor inspired by ancient Chinese medicine. The cocktail list is inventive and alluring, yet approachable. It’s a memorable experience driven by genuine hospitality.”

Elexia de la Parra

“Some of my favorite shops include Pigment , Shop Good , Casa y Cocina , and Revival Vintage Eyewear . I tend to make my way to that block [around Ray Street and North Park Way] and poke my head in. You’re guaranteed a one-stop shop to find the perfect gift or something special.”

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San Diego Crew Classic

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Port of San Diego's Day at the Docks

A San Diego sportfishing tradition, The Port Of San Diego’s Day At The Docks is the West Coast’s largest public celebration of sportfishing. Signaling the official start of Southern California’s spring saltwater fishing season, Day At The Docks takes place on Sunday, April 7, 2024 against the colorful and dynamic backdrop of world renown sportfishing fleet on San Diego Bay.

Gator By The Bay-Zydeco, Blues & Crawfish Festival

The spirit, sounds and flavors of southwest Louisiana come alive at the largest and most-authentic Louisiana-themed music and food festival this side of the bayou. With everything from A to Zydeco, this 4-day, family-friendly cultural celebration takes place on picture-perfect San Diego Bay, featuring 100+ live musical acts & performances on 7 stages, wooden dance floors, shade, green grass and plenty of fun for the kids.

Come for the music, stay for the food. Gator By The Bay’s mouthwatering French Quarter Food Court is what foodie dreams are made of. Check off every box on your bayou-inspired culinary bucket list and chow down on authentic Cajun, Creole and Southern culinary delights, including gumbo, jambalaya, beignets and 10,000 pounds of crawfish brought directly from Louisiana. Gator By The Bay is Mardi Gras in May

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A highly-anticipated 7+ stage, 80+ bands, 3-day music, culinary and arts festival will descend upon the stunning waterfront of downtown San Diego all along the Embarcadero. The festival offers diverse attractions including yacht parties, water sports, art installations, after-parties, a craft beer village and plenty of local flavors. Wonderfront festival’s re-entry policy encourages festival-goers to customize their weekend experience and truly integrates the city into the fabric of the festival.

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San Diego Travel Blog

Local insight to help you plan your next San Diego vacation.

March 14, 2024 By James Hebert

San Diego basks in Tripadvisor’s accolades as a top 2024 travel destination 

San Diego has just scored a hat trick of fresh accolades as a top 2024 travel destination — and you might want to hold onto your own hat as you catch up on these latest honors from Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards. 

A Top 15 Overall Destination 

Tripadvisor has named San Diego one of the “ Best of the Best” U.S. destinations in its prestigious Travelers’ Choice Awards, which are based on reviews and ratings from real travelers. In announcing the destination’s pick as No. 15 on its list for 2024, Tripadvisor said: “San Diego embodies laid-back California culture, complete with a boardwalk, surfing communities and outstanding Mexican food. Breathe in the fresh ocean air at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park , then gobble down a fresh fish taco at a La Jolla seafood joint . The naval aircraft at the USS Midway Museum will have you standing at attention. (And) a free Sunday concert at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion is the perfect way to unwind after a Saturday night bar-hop in the thumping Gaslamp Quarter .” 

The Best of the Best designation is a particularly big honor for San Diego because it’s awarded only to those receiving a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community. Out of Tripadvisor’s 8 million-plus listings, says the company, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone. 

The accolade comes just a few months after the readers of Condé Nast Traveler chose San Diego as the No. 2 big city in America in the magazine’s annual Readers’ Choice Awards. That was the destination’s highest-ever ranking in the much-watched Condé Nast survey, and placed San Diego ahead of such perennially popular cities as San Francisco, Honolulu and New York. 

San Diego Dining in the Top 10 Spotlight 

Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards also have embraced the region’s growing renown as a world-class culinary hotspot, naming San Diego the No. 10 food destination in the United States. It’s easy to see why: San Diego now boasts five restaurants that have been awarded Michelin stars , the most coveted dining honor worldwide, and numerous other local restaurants also have achieved Michelin’s Bib Gourmand distinction for great food at a good value. 

Beyond the awards , San Diego offers an amazing range of great dining and places to enjoy it — from fabled neighborhood taco joints to great food with a waterfront view to creative outdoor and beachside cuisine to new dining finds . Even our ballpark and stadium grub is the best of the best! 

And restaurant accolades are a rising trend for San Diego, which also was named among the Top 10 U.S. cities for dining by Food & Wine Magazine in its 2023 Global Tastemakers Awards. 

La Jolla Cove Makes a Splash (Again) as No. 5 Best Beach 

And the Travelers’ Choice Awards for San Diego just keep on coming: Our city’s beautiful La Jolla Cove has once again landed on Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best U.S. Beaches list — this year at No. 5! That’s up a full five spots from the 2023 rankings , and a worthy tribute to this stunning beach, which is set like a rare jewel into the soaring seaside bluffs of La Jolla. 

Tripadvisor calls La Jolla Cove “a scenic beach where blue-green waters meet dramatic cliffs. It’s a popular surfing spot, and home to seals, sea lions and tidepools. Take a stroll on the promenade or go swimming, kayaking or paddleboarding, then catch the colorful sunset. Bonus: It’s easy get to, has free parking, restrooms, and is stroller-friendly.” 

As gorgeous as the Cove is, it has great company in the many other inviting beaches up and down San Diego’s 70 miles of sparkling coastline. From secluded pockets of sand to family-friendly beaches with all the amenities, San Diego has the ideal sunny spot for every beach-lover. So grab a towel and some sunscreen and come see for yourself! 

GirlsDoPorn owner goes from FBI's Most Wanted List to San Diego court appearance

Michael pratt, the owner of girlsdoporn, appeared in a federal court in san diego on alleged sex trafficking charges after being extradited from spain. he pleaded not guilty..

The owner of a pornographic site who federal authorities consider the "mastermind" behind a commercial sex trafficking ring was recently extradited from Spain to appear in court nearly five years after felony charges were filed against him in San Diego.

Michael Pratt, the owner of GirlsDoPorn, appeared in a federal court on Tuesday and pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking charges filed in the Southern District of California on Oct. 10, 2019, according to a Justice Department news release.

Pratt is accused of working with four people − Matthew Wolfe, Ruben Garcia, Valorie Moser, and Theodore Gyi − to "recruit young adult women to engage in commercial sex acts by fraud and coercion," according to court documents.

Pratt's not-guilty plea Tuesday comes after he was named to the FBI's Top Ten Most Wanted list in early 2022 and his arrest in Spain in December 2022, the Justice Department said.

“We cast a wide net in search of Mr. Pratt and now that he is in San Diego, we are prepared to bring him to justice,” U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath said in a statement. “We extend our deep appreciation to the government of Spain for its assistance in securing his arrest and extradition.”

Pratt's attorney didn't immediately respond to USA TODAY's message for comment on Wednesday.

How Michael Pratt allegedly operated GirlsDoPorn

Throughout the alleged conspiracy, Pratt and the co-defendants recruited hundreds of young women from around the U.S. and Canada who were aspiring models, court records show. Once the young women responded to the group's online ads, Pratt and the others would tell them that the jobs were for pornographic videos and not modeling gigs, according to court documents.

The group told the models they'd receive $3,000 to $5,000 for a one-day video shoot, court documents show. When the women declined to participate in the shoots because they feared the footage would be uploaded online, the group lied and told them the videos would "only be distributed outside the U.S. on DVD or to supposed private collectors overseas," the documents said.

To dispel doubts, Pratt paid other young women, including Moser, to "act as references or provide false assurances to the women that, if they filed a video, the video would not be posted online," court records show. In addition to not being told they'd be online, the group informed the women that they would remain anonymous in the videos, according to court records.

"If a woman agreed to make a video, members of the conspiracy paid to fly the woman to San Diego," according to court documents.

Michael Pratt made $17 million from GirlsDoPorn, court docs say

Most of the hours-long shoots happened in hotel rooms and at short-term rental units in San Diego, court records show. Once the video productions began, court documents say that some women weren't allowed to leave the shooting locations until the adult films were completed. If the women tried to leave, the group would either force the girls to "perform certain sex acts" or threaten them with lawsuits and flight cancelations, the documents continued.

Once home, unbeknownst to the women, Pratt and his co-defendants would post clips of the adult videos on other pornographic sites like Pornhub to lure users to GirlsDoPorn for full-length versions of the films, court records show. Pratt, who charged users a GirlsDoPorn subscription fee, made more than $17 million in revenue, according to the records.

Human trafficking: A network of crime hidden across a vast American landscape

Pratt is facing 19 felony counts stemming from the operation of GirlsDoPorn − including 15 counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; conspiracy to commit sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion; production of child pornography; sex trafficking of a minor by force, fraud, and coercion; and conspiracy to commit money laundering, the Justice Department said.

All of Pratt's co-defendants have either accepted plea deals or been found guilty for their involvement in GirlsDoPorn, court records show.

Multiple federal agencies investigated Pratt, including authorities in Spain.

REMINDER: The New Terminal 1 is under construction at San Diego International Airport. If you’re coming to the airport, please plan ahead. Learn more here ›

Alert: sassafras street will be closed friday, march 24 from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. on monday, march 27, 2023. detours will be set up to navigate the road closure. please allow extra time if planning to use this road to access the rental car center or san diego international airport..

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A taste of Hong Kong

If you have 36 hours to explore, here’s how to experience the incense-filled neighborhoods, thought-provoking art and hilltop views of this glittering, international metropolis

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In director Wong Kar-wai’s nostalgic films about neon-tinged 1960s Hong Kong, characters yearn for loves lost. Today, many Hong Kongers are looking at their city with a similar longing as the Chinese territory (handed over by the British colonizers in 1997) undergoes a tumultuous political transformation.

After giant pro-democracy protests in 2019, an ongoing crackdown on speech and dissent has dismantled civil society groups and set off a wave of emigration. Famous restaurants shuttered under pandemic restrictions, and locals are flocking to small businesses operating as they did generations ago, not knowing when these living relics could also disappear. It is a meaningful time to visit this glittering, international metropolis in a moment of collective soul-searching, as residents take stock of diminished freedoms, vanishing landmarks and what still makes the city special.

3:30 p.m. | Visit historic shops

Travel back in time in Sheung Wan , a charming neighborhood where traditional stores sell tea and spices, just as they did more than a century ago, when the city was a colonial trading outpost. One shop, Cheung Hing Tea Hong , sells a variety of Chinese, European and Ceylon black teas, as well as coffee beans. Its tea master, who has worked there for more than six decades, nimbly folds and tucks the shop’s signature tea variety, tieguanyin (about 160 Hong Kong dollars, or $20.50, for 150 grams), into an artful, palm-size paper package , using no tape or string. Midway down a wide outdoor stairway, Yuan Heng Spice Co. offers all manner of spices, including Sichuan peppercorns, cinnamon bark and aged citrus peels. The shop’s majestic cats are neighborhood fixtures. (Check out @hongkonghistoricalshops on Instagram for more gems.)

5 p.m. | Search for a speakeasy

The handling of colonial-era buildings, which can be painful reminders of oppression, is fraught in Hong Kong. One reimagined site is Tai Kwun , a 19th-century prison and police station in the city center, which was converted into a public arts compound in 2018. Make a game of seeking out 001 , a speakeasy behind an unmarked black door, hidden in a maze of walkways (Tai Kwun employees will help you find it, if you ask). Once you’re inside, reward yourself for the search with an Earl Grey martini (158 dollars). At Tai Kwun Contemporary , the art gallery in the complex, the exhibition “Green Snake: Women-Centred Ecologies” (free, runs through April 1) explores mythology amid the climate crisis through the lens of 30 female artists. Use Tai Kwun’s app for self-guided tours of the compound. Some focus on architecture; others highlight the best spots for photos.

7:30 p.m. | Eat in an ex-warehouse

For a refined Chinese dinner near Tai Kwun, head to the Fringe Club , a performing arts space in an oval brick building that served as a dairy warehouse in the 19th century. Ascend neon-lit stairs to reach its restaurant, Nove at the Fringe , where you can order watermelon in a numbing mala chile sauce (65 dollars) and honey-glazed char siu pork (165 dollars, half portion). Afterward, go to Penicillin , a sustainable cocktail bar that ferments food scraps in its “stinky room” and invents new drinks in its laboratory using unlikely ingredients such as cacao husks, soy sauce and charred chive sprigs (cocktails from 125 dollars). The name of Lockdown , a new bar from the same owners, refers to Hong Kong’s pandemic restrictions, and the offerings include experimental versions of American Prohibition-era cocktails (from 120 dollars) served in an elegant space (in spite of the toilet displayed in its front window).

10 a.m. | Enjoy a teahouse

Begin your morning with a stroll past ponds full of koi, turtles and water lilies at Hong Kong Park , a family-friendly, 20-acre green space converted from British army barracks. On the ground floor of Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware , a Greek Revival mansion in the park where the commander of British forces in Hong Kong once lived, is LockCha , a tranquil teahouse with dark wood accents and elegant grooved panels. Choose from more than 100 kinds of white, yellow and green tea (starting at 58 dollars; customers order their own pot). Vegetarian dim sum options are limited in Hong Kong, so LockCha’s fully vegetarian menu is a rare treat. Try the black truffle vegan siu mai (48 dollars, two pieces), steamed custard buns (35 dollars, two pieces) and the black fungus salad with sesame sauce (48 dollars).

12:30 p.m. | Explore bold art

See one of the world’s largest collections of contemporary Chinese art at M+ , a museum that opened in 2021 amid pandemic restrictions (entry, 120 dollars). Shaped like a giant inverted T, the 700,000-square-foot museum has more than 8,000 works in its permanent collection. Even with the ongoing crackdown on free expression, the museum offers bold and nuanced critiques: The satirical installation “Old People’s Home,” by Sun Yuan and Peng Yu, shows life-size wax figures resembling world leaders riding in motorized wheelchairs and colliding into one another. Some artists capture political disillusionment in China, such as in Fang Lijun’s large painting of a man sinking into azure water. The museum also has a library lounge devoted to video works . Visit the rooftop garden for an expansive view of the harbor front.

3 p.m. | Follow the incense

Stroll or take a taxi to Yau Ma Tei , a former fishing port where shops still sell incense and wood sculptures originally used by fishermen in rituals to protect them. Start at Tai On Coffee and Tea Shop , a classic Cantonese diner with cheery yellow walls and decor that pays homage to famous diner scenes in Hong Kong films, like with a cardboard cutout of actor Maggie Cheung’s character from Wong Kar-wai’s film “In the Mood for Love.” Try the egg tart set (58 dollars); they come in several unorthodox flavors. The owner has commissioned illustrated maps of the historic shops nearby, available at no charge. Nearby, Cheung Shing Fans Factory sells incense sticks and essential oils (300 dollars per vial) and pricey sandalwood fans. See the artisans at Kwok Kee Wood Ware Sculpture who often sit outside the shop, carving and painting figures traditionally used by fishing families for ancestor worship.

4:30 p.m. | Hit a creative district

Sham Shui Po is a wholesale garment district that has been transformed into a creative hub where you might stumble on vintage toy shops, a vinyl trove or an umbrella repair stall . Visit Parallel Space , a small independent gallery that shows emerging Hong Kong artists who don’t shy away from social commentary. On the third floor of an old building, Book Punch is an independent store whose selection includes literary fiction, poetry and children’s books on emotional intelligence; staff members thank their customers by giving them vegetables or snacks . Bound Kowloon is a lively, neon-lit coffee shop and bar known for its rebellious spirit and bonhomie. It also hosts concerts ranging from punk rock to jazz. Take some time out there with a warm shochu-and-ginger cocktail called a Sunday Morning (108 dollars).

6 p.m. | Take a short night hike

Go on an easy urban hike and be rewarded by a view of the sunset from Garden Hill . Starting near the YHA Mei Ho Youth Hostel in Shek Kip Mei, a neighborhood near Sham Shui Po, ascend the stairs (it takes about 10 minutes) until you reach a flat concrete area with a grove of trees at the edge of the hill. From there, you’ll spot candy-colored residences, including Shek Kip Mei Estate, Hong Kong’s first public housing complex, among taller towers. In contrast to the skyline of glitzy skyscrapers seen from Victoria Peak, a hill popular with tourists, this view conjures an image of Hong Kong’s working-class resilience. Garden Hill is well known but not overly crowded; it’s popular among photographers and young couples on dates.

8:30 p.m. | Order clay pot rice

Hong Kong is hot and humid for the greater part of the year, but in the winter long lines form outside Hing Kee at Temple Street (there are several restaurants with this name in Hong Kong), a no-frills restaurant that specializes in clay pot rice, a comforting dish cooked over a charcoal fire with aromatic toppings like Chinese sausage and seafood (starting at around 60 dollars, cash only). Pour a generous amount of sweet soy sauce and enjoy the satisfying crunch of the rice at the edge of the pot. Although the semi-outdoor restaurant sprawls across five storefronts, you can still expect a wait during peak meal times; the turnover is relatively fast.

9 a.m. | Ride a ferry to an island

Spend half a day exploring Sharp Island , a tranquil sanctuary northeast of Hong Kong’s center that offers verdant hiking trails, volcanic rocks and pristine beaches. Other destinations like Lamma Island and Cheung Chau Island are more accessible, but Sharp Island’s beauty and relative privacy make the 60- to 90-minute journey worth it. At the public pier in Sai Kung (15 miles from the city center, accessible by public transport), find a private boat operator going to Sharp Island (tickets around 40 dollars) then pick up pineapple buns at Sai Kung Cafe and Bakery (13 dollars, cash only) as you wait to board. Get off at the Hap Mun Bay stop and follow the signs for the hiking trail to Kiu Tsui Beach. Along the trail, look for small ceramic sculptures inspired by the island from the Sai Kung Hoi Arts Festival. When the tide is low, cross the Sharp Island Sand Levee, a path filled with monzonite boulders nicknamed “pineapple bun” rocks for their resemblance to the crust of the local pastry. It’s the perfect spot to break out those treats you brought along.

Sheung Wan , a neighborhood dating to the mid-19th century, abounds with old shops selling tea and spices alongside some of the city’s trendiest cafes. bit.ly/SheungWan-map

Tai Kwun is a former colonial prison compound that has been restored and converted to a public art complex with galleries, restaurants, bars and outdoor performance spaces. taikwun.hk/en

M+ , a major art museum that opened during the pandemic, holds one of the world’s most extensive collections of contemporary Chinese art and offers expansive views of the harbor from its rooftop. mplus.org.hk/en

Sharp Island is a verdant coastal area with easy hiking trails, pristine beaches surrounded by aquamarine waters and volcanic rocks. bit.ly/Sharp-Island

WHERE TO EAT

001 , a speakeasy-style bar hidden in the Tai Kwun complex, serves cocktails like Earl Grey martinis. instagram.com/001.hk

Penicillin creates innovative cocktails from unlikely ingredients like cacao husks and soy sauce. penicillinbar.com

Lockdown serves drinks inspired by the American Prohibition era. instagram.com/lockdown_hk

Nove at the Fringe is an upscale restaurant in a landmark building serving classic Cantonese food with high-quality ingredients. novehk.com/fringeclub

LockCha is a serene teahouse where you can linger over vegetarian dim sum and many cups of tea. lockcha.com/locations/hong-kong-park

Tai On Coffee and Tea Shop is a cafe that serves Cantonese diner classics with a twist, with paintings and cutout figures that pay homage to scenes in beloved Hong Kong films. bit.ly/TaiOnCoffeeTea

Hing Kee Restaurant serves aromatic rice dishes cooked in clay pots over a charcoal fire. bit.ly/HingKee

Bound Kowloon is a neon-lit coffee shop and bar with a countercultural spirit. instagram.com/boundkowloon

WHERE TO STAY

Regent Hong Kong , formerly the Intercontinental Hong Kong, reopened in November. Its restaurants include Nobu and Lai Ching Heen , which has two Michelin stars. Rooms start at 4,500 Hong Kong dollars, or about $576. hongkong.regenthotels.com

The Hari is a stylish hotel with a lounge filled with art books. Rooms, which have ample natural light, start at around $1,900. thehari.com

Eaton HK has a cinema, an art gallery, a Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant, a large food court and a rooftop bar. Rooms start at around $900. https://bit.ly/Eatonhotel

May is a New York Times reporter covering Hong Kong, where she was born and raised.

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