Rising up within the wine nation of Temecula, I used to be ceaselessly dreaming of my subsequent journey in San Diego.
My record of issues to do within the massive metropolis by no means stopped rising. Luckily, San Diego was solely an hour away so it was simple to jump over to discover the superb eateries, attractive seashores, and funky neighborhoods.
All through years of residing in Cape City, San Diego stayed close to and pricey to my coronary heart. Once I was lastly able to plant roots in Southern California, I made a beeline for this cool coastal metropolis.
Right this moment, I name San Diego house and my staycations are the whole lot I dreamt they’d be. I relish the chance to point out individuals round my stomping grounds.
That’s why I created my Final Information to San Diego Journey that will help you get your bearings. Now, that will help you dig into the day by day planning, right here is my one-week San Diego Itinerary.
Prepared for an insider’s information to San Diego? Let’s go!
Which Neighborhood to Keep in San Diego
It’s important to know simply how geographically massive San Diego County is. As you’re planning out your must-see spots round city, take a look at a map.
There are 70 miles of shoreline throughout the county so issues could be a lot farther aside than you would possibly suppose.
There are too many neighborhoods to even record so I’m simply going to scratch the floor by itemizing the perfect bases for exploration.
If you’re solely on the town for one week, you’ll discover a numerous vary of choices. That can assist you resolve, let’s take a look at which areas are finest for several types of journey.
Downtown/Little Italy
When you’re searching for top-notch nightlife, add downtown and the Gaslamp (simply beside Little Italy) to your record.
Whereas Little Italy is near Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, it’s not an awesome space for teenagers. You’ll additionally discover the parking expensive is difficult to return by.
Then again, in case you’re searching for an evening in town and plan to Uber it round, you’re going to find it irresistible.
Seaside Cities
For a beautiful view of the Pacific and a laid again vibe, you’ll be spoiled for selection all through the Pacific Seaside, Ocean Seaside, and Mission Seaside space
La Jolla
This drop-dead attractive space comes at a premium however is nicely value it while you want to deal with your self.
North County
When you’ll be a bit farther from the standard vacationer spots like Balboa Park and the Zoo, you’ll discover chill locations to flee in Del Mar, Solana Seaside, Leucadia, Encinitas, and Carlsbad.
When you’re solely planning to pop down the Balboa Park space and are extra focused on searching for a spot to disconnect, search for choices up right here. It’s a soothing seaside space with bargains available.
Carlsbad
I like the Carlsbad Flower Fields up right here! Go to within the spring to admire the colourful blooms. Remember although that you simply’re 45 minutes from Level Loma and this isn’t a sensible base in case you’re planning to discover San Diego day by day.
The Finest Time to Go to San Diego
By far and away the perfect time to go to is from August to October. The climate continues to be heat however you’ll discover the hordes of vacationers have principally cleared out.
When you’re not from California, you won’t be acquainted with “Might Grey” and “June Gloom.”
Whereas we’ve got a couple of heat and sunny days within the spring, it doesn’t really feel like summer time till round July. By a lot of spring and early summer time, the mornings are overcast and a bit dreary.
That stated, I do benefit from the overcast days as a result of it hardly ever truly rains. It’s the form of climate the place you may cozy up in a cardigan and sip a sizzling brew in a espresso store.
When you’re searching for enjoyable within the solar on the seaside, Might and June aren’t tremendous dependable instances to go.
Getting Round San Diego
Surely, having your personal set of wheels in San Diego is crucial. Whereas there are walkable areas, they’re far-flung. Throughout the course of every week, it would be best to discover the broader San Diego space.
Southern California isn’t recognized for its public transport and there’s a purpose for that.
The quite a few freeways close by loop round, connecting all the seaside cities and areas within the outskirts of San Diego…however they’re for automobiles. Counting on the bus system is irritating and time-consuming.
Planning Tip: Whereas I’ve put collectively a one-week information, it’s a free plan. You may combine and match totally different occasions and do issues in no matter order you like.
I’d extremely advocate trying out the city event calendar as you begin planning.
See if there are any festivals or massive occasions that you simply wish to take a look at or keep away from (in case you’re not attending, the site visitors, parking hassles, and inflated costs throughout main occasions could be annoying).
Day 1: Balboa Park and the Zoo
These are the 2 must-see websites of San Diego.
You may knock them each out in in the future. The entire high museums are collectively in a single spot. When you’re touring with youngsters, they’re certain to like the Zoo (as will the grown-ups!).
A lot of Balboa Park’s unbelievable Spanish-inspired structure was constructed between 1915 and the late Thirties for various Expositions (it’s possible you’ll know these as World’s Festivals).
There are many nice locations to stroll round outdoors of the zoo and you may BYOB to have a wine picnic. Take your time exploring and make a full day of simply these two spots.
Craving Mexican meals? El Indio is known! Proper across the nook from it, you’ll additionally discover the “finest” California Burrito within the state at Lucha Libre.
Day 2: Convey on the Brews
With 150 breweries and new locations popping up day by day, San Diego has most undoubtedly earned its place amongst the world’s finest craft beer capital.
Make a day of beer tasting and exploring all the distinctive choices that you’ll solely discover right here.
To pattern the native suds, make a beeline for North Park. And, come hungry! This place is house to the perfect native eateries and craft beer spots on the town.
Day 3-4: Beach Days
It’s all about the beach here and you’ll want a couple of days to soak in the sun. Beyond bronzing and watersports, each beach town has its own unique vibe.
While you’ll hear locals recommending a range of spots, when it comes to accessibility and offerings, you can’t go wrong with any of this line-up of popular beaches.
Here are a few places to check out:
Mission Beach and Belmont Park
When you think of a classic boardwalk, you are probably imagining something like this. From bumper cars to miniature golf to beach rental shops, these two miles of boardwalk here have everything for families.
It’s also a great area for biking or rollerblading. After dark, you’ll also find plenty to do around Mission Beach and nearby Pacific Beach.
La Jolla Shores
When it comes to family options, this is a top pick. With relatively calm seas, and lifeguards on hand, this is a parent’s fave.
Make sure to check out the Children’s Pool La Jolla! It’s a small, sandy beach with an area originally built for kids to be secluded from the waves by a concrete barrier — it’s now quite popular for seals to hang out in!
You could even go kayaking, if that’s your heart’s desire!
Coronado Island
This quaint island off the coast is the perfect pick for families and couples. You can tour the legendary Hotel del Coronado, shop at the one-of-a-kind boutiques, or stroll through the parks.
Pacific Beach
This is a young and lively town that is popular with surfers. Catch a wave, surf Crystal Pier, then stick around for drinks and dinner.
Mission Bay
If you want to rent a Duffey boat or hop on a paddleboard, Mission Bay is a good option because its bay location means there are no waves.
Carlsbad
Home to Legoland California theme park, beautiful spring flower fields, and eight different beaches, this city just north of San Diego has scenic spots with a small-town vibe.
Make sure to check the calendar for the Flower Fields as the iconic ranunculus are only in bloom from the beginning of March to the beginning of May!
Aquarium at Scripps
The more than 5,000 fish who call it home, make the 60+ aquariums at Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography a must for kids (and kids at heart).
Torrey Pines
Day 5: Hiking and Nature Reserve
Start your day in Torrey Pines. Hike the nature reserve and soak in the beauty away from the shoreline. Once you have worked up an appetite, go for brunch.
In the afternoon, head over to Solana Beach or Del Mar. They’re both known for their eclectic boutiques, trendy eateries, and local art galleries.
Day 6-7: Choose Your Own Adventure
For the last two days of your San Diego visit, you can choose your own adventure. Here are a few of my all-time faves:
Check out the Bay and Coronado Island
Go for a naval ship tour, take the Hornblower cruise, visit the Midway Museum, then store, eat, and drink your manner by means of the Halfway District, in addition to the attractive Coronado Island!
Padres Recreation
Take your self out to the ballgame!
Little Italy Avenue Market
Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market is on each Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm. For meals, crafts, and an awesome vibe, begin your day right here.
Wednesday Evening Market in OB
The Ocean Beach Farmers Market is held each Wednesday from 4 to eight pm. It’s an awesome place for looking, choosing up native goodies, and a main spot for people-watching.
Sundown Cliffs
The sundown from right here is so spectacular that they named the entire place after it! And, on high of being a romantic spot, it’s additionally an awesome place for yoga courses.
Do notice that it’s a well-liked spot in the summertime although so bear in mind that it will get crowded.
That stated, it’s a improbable location for a picnic with severe views!
Glider Port in Torrey Pines
The Torrey Pines Gliderport is the proper place to get your coronary heart racing and get a chook’s eye view of the town.
Vineyard Day
There are greater than 100 wineries in San Diego County and lots extra simply outdoors. When you’re a fellow wine lover, do miss your likelihood to pattern the native vintages.
A Evening on the City in Little Italy
You’ll discover superb nightlife throughout Little Italy and the Gaslamp District. For a assured nice night time out, take a look at Moonshine Flats, or Kettner Exchange.
What would you add to your dream San Diego itinerary? I’ll be engaged on eating places and brunch guides shortly! Let me know what you’d prefer to see within the feedback beneath!
