San Diego Itinerary: Planning the Perfect Visit to Southern California in 2024
TRYING TO PLAN THE PERFECT SAN DIEGO ITINERARY?
We can help! We’ve been traveling together since 2010 and have spent months exploring California, logging some serious time in San Diego.
San Diego is one of the most beautiful and fun locations to visit in the United States. Great for couples and families alike, with so much to do and see, everyone will find something to enjoy.
Whether you’ve only got one day or one week to spend in this beautiful paradise, let us help you plan your San Diego itinerary.
Sample San Diego Itinerary
San Diego Itinerary – 1 Day
Day 1: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Itinerary – 3 Days
Day 1: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Harbor Cruise
Day 2: Balboa Park, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden, Spanish Village Art Center, Moonlight State Beach
Day 3: La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Belmont Park
San Diego Itinerary – 5 Days
Day 1: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Harbor Cruise
Day 2: Balboa Park, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden, Spanish Village Art Center, Moonlight State Beach
Day 3: La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Belmont Park
Day 4: Coronado, Old Town San Diego
Day 5: Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs, Cabrillo National Monument, Embarcadero and Seaport Village
San Diego Itinerary – 7 Days
Day 1: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Harbor Cruise
Day 2: Balboa Park, San Diego Air and Space Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden, Spanish Village Art Center, Moonlight State Beach
Day 3: La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Belmont Park
Day 4: Coronado, Old Town San Diego
Day 5: Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs, Cabrillo National Monument
Day 6: Legoland, Gaslamp Quarter
Day 7: Whale Watching Tour, USS Midway Museum
Go City: San Diego Explorer Pass
If you’re planning to visit several of San Diego’s attractions, a San Diego Explorer Pass is a great thing to get to save money on your trip. The pass offers each pass holder access to your choice of two to seven local attractions and activities at discounted rates.
There are so many fun things to do and see in San Diego and this pass helps you save a little money along the way. Attractions covered by the pass include: San Diego Zoo, San Diego Natural History Museum and even some speedboat tours and bike rentals.
▶ SHOP San Diego Explorer Pass
Things to Include in Your San Diego Itinerary
Sunset Cliffs
The Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a 1.5-mile stretch along the Point Loma peninsula’s western shoreline. The area is popular spot among surfers and ocean admirers.
When the weather cooperates, there are beautiful sunsets that complement the rugged coastline and panoramic views. During our last visit to San Diego, we watched the sunset here and it was beautiful. Parking is limited so it’s a good idea to get there a little early.
If you have time, drive along Sunset Cliffs Boulevard, starting at Adair Street, and continue south to Ladera Street. There are beautiful homes along the street as well as top-notch ocean views.
Whale Watching Tour
Whale watching is a great activity to add to your San Diego vacation itinerary. This tour will offer commentary about gray whales, dolphins, and other marine animals. And maybe you’ll even spot one on your journey.
Along this cruise, you’re also likely to see US Navy sites as you make your way in the Pacific Ocean.
Anytime we can get out on the water to see wildlife, we have a great time. It is so amazing to see the animals in their natural habitats.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is the largest cultural park in North America. Founded 150 years ago when civic leaders set aside 1,400 acres to establish the park. Balboa Park was the second dedicated large urban park, behind New York City’s Central Park.
Brimming with color and artistry, the park is thought of as the cultural heart of San Diego. The park is filled with museums, art around every corner, serene gardens and the San Diego Zoo. Though not a flashy spot, Palm Canyon is a personal favorite highlight of Balboa Park. 450 palm trees packed into 2 acres offer a very memorable landscape for a walk.
With so many attractions, everyone in your family is bound to find their happy place here.
San Diego Air and Space Museum
San Diego Air & Space Museum is an aviation and space exploration museum in Balboa Park, a great addition to your San Diego day trip itinerary. The museum is housed in the former Ford Building, which is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.
Some highlights of the museum include, a collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft from all over the world, a flying replica of Charles Lindbergh’s “Spirit of St. Louis,” the actual Apollo 9 Command Module spacecraft and the only real GPS satellite on display in the world.
Japanese Friendship Garden
The Japanese Friendship Garden (JFG) is a beautiful work of art brought to life through nature. The garden reflects the friendship between San Diego and Yokohama, referred to as its sister city. Stone designs, majestic koi ponds, and serene water features interspersed in the greenery of the garden make for a very tranquil experience.
Educational programs, exhibits, festivals, and horticultural classes are offered here as well to help expand visitors’ appreciation for Japanese culture.
Spanish Village Art Center
The Spanish Village Art Center transports visitors to an old village in Spain. A colorful and vibrant oasis in the heart of Balboa Park, this area is also multi-purposed as artist’s studios and spaces. Not just a group of buildings. The people who come in contact with the Spanish Village Art Center are a community.
Artisans and experts of countless mediums work together to protect and enhance this historic landmark. Depending on the day, you can even catch live art demonstrations and art-making activities in the buildings or courtyards.
San Diego Harbor Cruise
The San Diego Harbor Cruise offers the best views of the city’s most notable landmarks. A definite addition to your San Diego vacation itinerary, spend an hour or two under the sun, sightseeing as you cover the highlights of San Diego Harbor.
This fully narrated tour will cover the San Diego skyline, the Coronado Bridge, the US Naval fleet, and maybe even some sea lions! Getting out on the ocean is one of the best things to do on a sunny day in San Diego.
▶ BOOK San Diego Harbor Cruise
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is a place you can’t miss! It is ranked the #1 zoo in the world by TripAdvisor, and it is easy to see why. This place is magical and was our favorite part of San Diego. Across 100 acres, there are over 4,000 rare and endangered animals.
The zoo is home to giraffes, koala bears, panda bears, gorillas, rhinos, hippos, and more.
It is good to keep in mind this is a very large zoo. You will be walking a lot, and there are hills in the zoo. While it is a great zoo to visit, make sure you are prepared with lots of water and snacks. It is well worth the effort to see so many amazing animals.
If you have a limited amount of time in the park, you can take a guided bus tour. It is the best way to get a full overview of the zoo. If you have more time, grab a park map and explore the zoo at a slower pace. It is fun to get to watch the animals in the exhibits and meander through the beautiful gardens found in the zoo.
Gaslamp Quarter
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, Gaslamp Quarter is known for its buzzing nightlife and entertainment scene. But its roots go much deeper than that. Rumors of hauntings from many years passed still remain.
If you fancy a little paranormal adventure, visit the Davis-Horton house, known as a local magnet for hauntings. Ghosts aside, the entire Gaslamp Quarter is full of history. 16 blocks full of historical buildings and opportunities to learn and explore.
The Gaslamp Quarter is also a great place to go out to eat.
USS Midway Museum
A trip to the USS Midway Museum is a great way to explore American naval history while fulfilling your San Diego itinerary. The ship, known as the longest-serving and one of the largest aircraft carriers of the 20th century, is striking to see. It was commissioned a week after the end of World War II and served for 7 years. It was the largest ship in the world until 1955.
Today, you can explore the USS Midway and is a great way to spend three hours or so. There is also a great audio tour that can help you understand what things are on the aircraft carrier and stories about those who served on it.
Kids will especially enjoy seeing restored aircraft up close. Get an even more in-depth experience with an audio tour (included with admission prices), allowing narration to guide your exploration of the museum. We had a great time learning about the different history and seeing things first-hand.
While exploring the ship, you have to climb quite a few steep ladders and can do a lot of walking so be prepared for that. It would also be a good idea to wear closed-toed shoes. On the ship, there are about 30 restored aircraft and many displays and exhibits. The hangar deck exhibits and flight deck exhibits were our favorite.
▶ SHOP USS Midway Museum Tickets
Unconditional Surrender Statue
The Unconditional Surrender Statue is found next to the USS Midway. The statue is a replica of the image captured in Times Square of a sailor grabbing the nearest nurse for a kiss to celebrate the victory over Japan. The statue is about 25-feet tall and is a great place to take a picture.
Embarcadero and Seaport Village
Located along the Big Bay, the Embarcadero is a testament to San Diego’s maritime history. Explore historic ships and museums here, or take in the sights of a working fishing harbor. Whatever you end up doing, it’s a great place to experience a unique side of San Diego.
Seaport Village is a fun place to do some window shopping, enjoy the fabulous San Diego weather and grab a bite to eat. The 14-acre waterfront area has around 50 different shops to browse through so there is something for everyone. If you’re in the mood for a tasty treat, pop into Frost Me. Their cupcakes are divine.
If you park in the parking lots right next to Seaport Village, make sure to get your parking pass validated. The shops in Seaport Village can validate your parking with a minimum $10 purchase. If you don’t, parking there is very expensive.
Non-validated self-parking is $8 per hour. We thought our parking ticket was validated, but it ended up not being validated so parking was expensive and there was no attendant on site to resolve the problem.
La Jolla
La Jolla is a must-see on your San Diego itinerary. It’s beautiful but also very popular, so expect crowds at this location. This upscale village is full of museums, art galleries, unique boutiques, and restaurants. It is often called “the jewel” of San Diego and is a great place to spend some time window shopping and exploring.
La Jolla is also home to one of the most popular beaches in San Diego. La Jolla Cove is open year-round, but the Children’s Pool is closed from December 15 to May 15 because newly-born seal pups are on the beach.
Casa Beach and Seal Rock are popular places for seals and sea lions. Be prepared for some odor from the seal and sea lion poop though. Remember to keep your distance and respect the animals.
La Jolla is a place we stop every time we are in San Diego because we love to see the wildlife in the area and visit the cute shops around town.
Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines State Beach offers a variety of outdoor activities on a sunny day in San Diego. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe on the beach, surf, golf, explore the Torrey Pines hiking trails, or hang glide, Torrey Pines has you covered.
Just north of La Jolla, along Highway 101, Torrey Pines offers two roads to explore. The low road will lead you to the popular beach, equipped with bathrooms, showers, lifeguards, and even a special kids’ spot to play by the lagoon. Those who are looking to surf will want to continue south on the low road, to reach Black’s Beach. This is one of the best places to visit in California in winter because of the beach’s famous winter swells.
If you’re not about that beach life, consider taking the high road to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Park. This coastal wilderness is a hidden gem of San Diego. Take in the expansive pine forest and sandstone canyons as you explore the bluffs overlooking the water.
A round at the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course would also be a fun option to check off on your San Diego itinerary bucket list.
Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking to explore a more unique side of San Diego. Described as a funky, vintage beach town, Ocean Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere and the best of what beach living can offer.
Visitors and locals alike flock to Ocean Beach for the vintage, throwback vibe of the area. People come here to enjoy the sun and surf but also to eat tacos and explore fun, local boutiques. The Ocean Beach Pier, which extends a half mile out to sea, is a highlight of the area.
Pro-tip: You can even fish here without a valid California fishing license!
If you’re traveling with a pet lover, a quick trip to Dog Beach will be well worth your trouble. Located at the north end of Ocean Beach, dogs are allowed to explore and play leash-free with everyone on the beach.
Coronado
Simply put, Coronado is magical. San Diego City describes it as, “just across the bridge and a world away,” and that couldn’t be more true. San Diego itself feels like a paradise, but something about crossing the bridge out to Coronado Island makes it feel like an escape into even more beauty and freedom.
Widely considered one of the best beaches in the country, Coronado’s coastline sparkles due to the Mica content in the sand. Add to that the strange combination of historic mansions and small-town charm, and you’ve got the best of what Coronado has to offer!
With so much to see and explore, consider renting a bike and perusing the island at your own pace. Make sure to stop by the gorgeous and historic Hotel del Coronado. The hotel is a sight to behold and has a storied past. Tales of presidents and princes, socialites, and old-time celebrities who once walked the halls are known to haunt the area.
On the beach out from the hotel, there are fun tidepools to visit. If you can time your visit at low tide, you can see all sorts of cool sea creatures near the large rocks visible at low tide.
If you do decide to bike around the island, be sure also to take in the beauty and charm of the historic homes and buildings. Window shopping down Orange Avenue would also be fun. But whatever you do, do not leave without eating.
Whether you dress it up for a meal at a beachside eatery or just stop by a small storefront – with fresh seafood abounding, the food in Coronado is phenomenal.
Sunset Sail
There’s nothing more romantic, or quintessentially San Diego, than a sunset sail. This sunset sailing experience tour will offer gorgeous views of San Diego’s coastline at golden hour from the comfort of a sailing yacht. If you’re looking closely, you might even see some marine life along the relaxing cruise.
Old Town San Diego
Old Town San Diego is the site of the first Spanish settlement on the West Coast and is considered the birthplace of California. There are many preserved historic buildings as well as museums, restaurants, and tourist-focused shopping areas in the 12 acres that make up Old Town San Diego. Live entertainment is showcased here on occasion.
Our favorite part of Old Town San Diego was the Historic Park. It paints such a neat picture of what colonial life was like in San Diego.
Point Loma
Point Loma is a great addition to your San Diego itinerary if you’re looking for a place to peacefully enjoy the sea in a non-traditional beach style setting. Instead of sunbathing, Point Loma is known for its plentiful tidepools. If you’re traveling with kids or others interested in marine life, Point Loma offers you a great opportunity to see some up close.
Keep in mind this isn’t a sandy beach and it isn’t recommended to swim here. The best time to visit Point Loma is at low tide to see the tide pools.
Legoland
A sure bet for happy kids, consider adding Legoland to your San Diego itinerary. You couldn’t ask for a better setting to let imaginations run wild, as visitors can literally build and play the day away in a land made of legos. Over 60 rides, shows, and attractions are sure to keep everyone entertained for the day.
In our opinion, Legoland is best suited for younger kids or older kids who really love legos. There are a few bigger rides, but most of the rides in the park are geared toward younger-aged kids. We had a great time in Legoland with our kids.
Cabrillo National Monument
Add some history to the mix of your San Diego visit and check out Cabrillo National Monument, located at the tip of Point Loma. Cabrillo National Monument honors explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo and offers panoramic views of the bay and ocean. The Point Loma Lighthouse is also a fun option to explore in this area.
There are also great tide pools in the monument to visit so you should time your visit at low tide if you can. The rocks in the tide pool are slippery so wear some shoes with good traction if you can. My youngest daughter needed help walking around the tide pools to see the wildlife.
If you have the America the Beautiful Pass be sure to bring it because it will cover your cost of admission into this national monument. The pass works for all of the national parks in California as well as throughout the country. We love our pass and are amazed at all of the places we can use it at.
▶ SHOP The America the Beautiful Pass
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
San Diego Zoo Safari Park is associated with the San Diego Zoo, offering a more specialized safari experience. This would be a dream come true for any animal lovers in your group.
A guided experience, as opposed to the self-guided style of the zoo, the safari park offers a variety of different safari experiences, based on your specific interests and budget. A safari journey would certainly make for a memorable day in San Diego.
During our last visit to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park a giraffe had been born the night before. We got to watch the newborn giraffe learn how to walk on our safari experience and it was so cool.
Moonlight State Beach
Moonlight State Beach is a wide and sandy, family-friendly beach offering the typical beach fare – swimming, surfing, and fishing. In the early 1900s, residents used to visit the beach for midnight picnics, earning it the name “moonlight”.
A grassy park is nearby as well, with an area for kids to play. Equipped for other outdoor activities, volleyball, and tennis courts are also featured at this beach.
There’s a snack bar for treats, and recreation equipment rentals are available as well.
Taste of Little Italy Food Tour
You really shouldn’t miss a quick tour of Little Italy while you’re in San Diego. That said, with all the food options available, you may feel overwhelmed with where to start and how to find the best eateries available. Take the guesswork out of the game and let the experts lead the way.
The Taste of LIttle Italy Food Tour not only offers guidance on where to find the best food, but educates participants about the history of the area and offers insights into the surrounding architecture. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon exploring Little Italy.
▶ BOOK Taste of Little Italy Food Tour
Birch Aquarium
If you weren’t able to catch a glimpse of some sea life on a harbor cruise or in a tidepool, a visit to Birch Aquarium is a great place to spend a morning or afternoon.
A great place to explore with kids, the Birch Aquarium has sharks, seahorses, coral reefs, and pretty much any other maritime life you can imagine. Be sure to see the rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Giant Pacific Octopus, Seadragons, and Moon Jellies. They even have penguins!
San Diego Swing near the Birch Aquarium
At the end of the Birch Aquarium parking lot, there is a short trail that will take you up to this really cool swing. The views of the coastline and ocean are amazing. It is well worth climbing up the hill for these views, especially if you are already at the Birch Aquarium.
Belmont Park
If you’re looking to have some outdoor fun near the beach, but not on the beach, Belmont Park is a great addition to your San Diego itinerary. Located on Mission Beach, it’s the only beachfront amusement center in San Diego. That means you can ride the renowned Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, while still enjoying the fresh ocean air.
With rides, games, and restaurants to explore, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Belmont Park. Whether you’re just hanging out on the boardwalk or taking in a round of mini-golf, it’s good times all around.
Day Trip to Tijuana
Have you ever wanted to visit Mexico? San Diego is located near the Mexican border, and many touring companies offer day trips to Tijuana. Crossing Borders: Tijuana Day Trip From San Diego offers a great opportunity to explore the nearby city with a guide.
The tour covers cultural attractions in the area, offers authentic Mexican street food, and allows for shopping and sightseeing in Tijuana. This tour would be a great opportunity to expand your vision of San Diego and the surrounding areas.
Chicano Park
Chicano Park is found beneath the San Diego-Coronado Bridge in Barrio Logan, the oldest Mexican-American neighborhood. The eight acre park is home to the country’s largest collection of outdoor graffiti as well as sculptures and different architectural highlights. There are more than 80 paintings.
Chicano Park is a place where the local community gathers to celebrate Mexican-American heritage. There are also picnic tables and a playground in the park. The park was designated as a National Historic Landmark in January 2017.
Centennial Park
Found on Coronado, Centennial Park is one of the most popular places to take in views of the bay and downtown San Diego. The park is found at the end of Orange Avenue. Parking can be tight here, so try to visit early in the day.
There are grassy, green fields which are great spots to let the kids get some energy out, and the views of the San Diego skyline are hard to beat. It’s also next to the Coronado Ferry Landing, a place for great local eateries and small shops.
Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach is the southernmost beach town in California. Tijuana is only five miles away! The beach has great views of Pacific Ocean sunsets, Coronado Island, Point Loma, and Tijuana. Rowen and Raven loved running up the pier and on the beach below.
Imperial Beach is also home to over 300 species of birds and is a prime fishing spot. It is a clean, family-friendly beach and a great place to spend some relaxing time near the ocean.
Map of Things to Include in Your San Diego Itinerary
How to Get to San Diego
Airports
San Diego International Airport is a buzzing hub of travel, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a flight to this convenient location. It’s located just 3 miles from central San Diego, so once you land, your adventure can begin.
LAX/Los Angeles to San Diego
If you opt to fly into LAX (Los Angeles International Airport), you can expect a 2-hour and 15-minute drive to get to San Diego. The 124-mile drive south down the coast will fluctuate in duration based on the traffic at that point in the day.
Getting Around San Diego
Renting a Car
A San Diego 5-day itinerary for families is likely to offer a packed schedule. Though many San Diego attractions are near each other, others are spread far and wide. Renting a car is the best option for dependable transportation on your own timeline.
It will also give you the flexibility that you won’t find on other modes of transportation like guided tours and public transportation.
Hop On Hop Off Trolley
If you’re looking to explore San Diego in true southern California fashion, consider purchasing a Hop On Hop Off Trolley pass. Passes are good for one or two days and definitely cover some of the attractions on your San Diego day trip itinerary. Some of the stops include Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego Zoo, USS Midway, and Little Italy.
Not only a means of transportation, each time you jump on the trolley, but the onboard guide will also offer insight into the area you’re passing through. It’s a fun and entertaining way to get around town! Plus, you won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot.
▶ BOOK Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tickets
Where to Stay in San Diego
The Atwood (Budget)
The Atwood is a unique and budget-friendly place to stay whether you’re planning one night in San Diego or a 4 day San Diego Itinerary. This “aparthotel” is an apartment complex transformed into a hotel. It features an outdoor pool, snack bar/deli, coffee shop, and restaurant. Each apartment is equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, flat-screen TV, and free wifi.
⭐The Atwood (7.8/10 Stars)
For the price this fit what we were looking for. The room was very big as well. – Rachelle (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: The Atwood
Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel (Mid-Range)
Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel is a great mid-range option when planning your 3-day San Diego Itinerary. This hotel offers an outdoor pool, hot tub, gym, and business center. On-site food options are available at their restaurant, and a full breakfast is offered every day for an extra fee.
The rooms are clean and comfortable, offering premium bedding and wifi.
⭐Best Western Plus Marina Gateway Hotel (8.8/10 Stars)
This Best Western was one of the nicer ones I have stayed in! The whole area and room was clean and beautiful. Staff was so friendly! Definitely would stay again! – Ashley (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Best Western Plus
Solamar San Diego (Luxury)
Another aparthotel, Solamar San Diego boasts an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a gym. Patrons can also enjoy the bar/lounge, a poolside bar, and the picturesque rooftop terrace. The apartments offer the utmost comfort with luxurious bedding, along with WiFi and flat-screen TVs.
⭐Solamar San Diego (8.4/10 Stars)
I stay in San Diego quite a bit, and never knew about this hotel. but I am so glad I found it. My wife and I have dogs now and it is really hard to find something affordable in gaslamp, and this place was amazing. – Cynthia (Expedia Review)
▶ Check Rates & Book: Solamar San Diego
FAQ: San Diego Itinerary
How many days do you need in San Diego?
San Diego is full of places to see and explore, which makes it great for planning your own itinerary. You can spend a week taking in several attractions or just hit a couple of the highlights in one day.
How can I experience San Diego in 4 days?
A person can cover a great deal of San Diego in 4 days. You can spend a day exploring San Diego Zoo or take a San Diego Harbor Cruise. You could spend the next day exploring Balboa Park and all its museums, gardens, and other artful attractions.
Then have a beach day, exploring La Jolla and Torrey Pines. Then wrap up the day with some boardwalk-style fun at Belmont Park. A day in Coronado would be a great way to cap off your 4-day San Diego itinerary.
When is the best time to visit San Diego?
September is a great time to visit San Diego. The summer months bring the most comfortable ocean temperatures but can be very crowded. By September, most of the crowds will have dissipated, and the beaches will still be wonderful to enjoy.
Do you need a car in San Diego?
A car is helpful when exploring different areas of San Diego, as the attractions can be spread out. There are public transit options like the Hop On Hop Off Trolley to help visitors without a vehicle get around certain parts of the city.
Conclusion: San Diego Itinerary
Whether you’re out to plan the very best San Diego 5-day itinerary for families or are just passing through with 1 night in San Diego to spare, we hope you make the best of it. With so much to do, it’s hard to see it all, so just enjoy the highlights.
The beaches. The museums. The parks. Soak up the sun, the history, and most importantly, the fun! We always have a great time when we visit San Diego – enjoying the pleasant weather, fun activities, and delicious food.
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Thanks for following along! Hope you make it to San Diego. It is such a beautiful place to visit!