If warm weather, swimming with the Sea Lions, indulging in delicious Mexican food & craft beer, and exploring historic sites is your thing, San Diego is the ideal place for your next vacation! Check out my ultimate San Diego travel guide, great for weekend getaways.
This stunning coastal city boasts a perfect balance of modernity and timeless charm. San Diego sits along the picturesque Pacific Coast of California, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and awe-inspiring coastal vistas.
Its laid-back atmosphere and abundance of activities attract several tourists to this coastal city. From its iconic zoo to its sun-kissed beaches, San Diego offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers, giving you a taste of Southern California’s finest offerings.
We visited San Diego in 2022 on a brief two-day sojourn and endeavored to explore every nook and cranny of the city. Although we barely scratched the surface of all that San Diego has to offer. However, we did manage to catch the city’s vibe and explore the top locations.
How many days are enough?
San Diego is a great weekend getaway destination for Californians. However, if you’re traveling from far lands, I recommend spending at least three to four days, where you spend two days for immersive exploration and the remaining for unwinding and relaxing.
Our flight itinerary
We were on a 5 Day tour exploring LA and San Diego. We stayed for three days in Los Angeles and headed to San Diego on day 4. We combined the two because of their proximity, plus it was easy to reach San Diego using public transit from LA.
We were traveling during the peak season, so the round-trip tickets were expensive, especially for a direct flight. Therefore, we booked separate one-way tickets, which saved us approximately $300 for two people. Here is what our flights looked like:
Seattle -> Los Angeles
Booked with Delta Airlines – Basic economy ticket for two – $276
Los Angeles -> San Diego
Flix Bus – $26 for two
San Diego -> Seattle
Booked with Alaska Airlines – Basic economy ticket for two – $198
History of San Diego
As you discover San Diego, you’ll notice a heavy influence of Spanish culture in every aspect, from food to architecture. That is because the Spanish settlers colonized the region for over seven decades. Before colonization, San Diego was home to various Indigenous tribes, including the Kumeyaay people.
The colonization began in 1769, led by Gaspar de Portolà and Father Junípero Serra until it became part of the Mexican territory following Mexico’s independence from Spain in 1821. San Diego became an essential hub for trade and agriculture.
It was during the Mexican-American War in 1846 that the United States military occupied San Diego and raised the American flag over the town. The war officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which ceded California to the United States.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, San Diego became a significant military port for the US Navy and Marine Corps, which improved the city’s economy and identity as a military town.
Best season to visit San Diego
San Diego is well connected with almost every major city in the USA. However, the flights can be expensive during peak travel season. Therefore, we recommend heading there during shoulder seasons between September-October and March-May.
Another good time to visit the city is during the festive season, which will allow you to indulge in various cultural activities. Here are some must-attend festivals in San Diego.
- Coronado Flower Show – this 100-year-old flower show is a must-attend event. It is the largest tented Flower Show in the USA and Coronado’s longest-running tradition.
Ticket: $10
Time: Apr 20-21, 2024 - Cinco de Mayo – one of the biggest fiestas in San Diego to celebrate Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza. The festival is full of fun, entertainment, and good food.
When: May 4-5 - Gator by the Bay – is one of the best music festivals in Southern California. This annual festival showcases non-stop live music, Louisiana food, and dancing. It’s Mardi Gras in May!
When: May 9-12
Where to stay in San Diego?
We stayed at the Kings Inn, a 2-star budget hotel in Hotel Circle near Interstate 8. We stayed here for a night for $150 (excluding breakfast), which can go down to $100 per night during the off-season. The best part of this hotel was that it was close to many tourist attractions. Therefore, getting a cab was easy and affordable.
Public transit in California is not good, so finding a hotel close to tourist attractions is essential. Here are a few more options in Hotel Circle:
- Homewood Suites San Diego Hotel Circle/SeaWorld Area
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites San Diego – Mission Valley, an IHG Hotel
- Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown – this is near waterfront with ocean view rooms.
Things we did in San Diego
Day 1
Coronado Island
We began our San Diego escapade at Coronado Island, a cute beach town just a 15-minute ferry ride away. We strolled around the beach town and relaxed by the sun-kissed beach, seeking solace amidst panoramic vistas.
You can also reach the island by road. However, I recommend taking the ferry to get a breathtaking view of downtown. The tickets can be purchased online or at the counter.
Cost: $8 one way/ person
On reaching the island, we headed straight to Coronado Beach. Since we were traveling car-free, we took bus route 905, which dropped us at the nearest bus stop (Orange Av & Park Pl).
The water was warm, and the view was serene, with the famous Hotel del Coronado in the backdrop. We watched the most stunning sunset from the beach, the sky painted in hues of pink, and birds flying over the ocean hunting for food. It was a beautiful sight!
We then took a bus back to the Ferry Landing and explored the shops and eateries. We randomly stopped by Parfait Paris, a French bakery, and decided to try a few desserts. Every item was freshly made and tasted amazing. I highly recommend stopping by.
Cost: $15 for two
Tired of walking? Here’s a fun way to explore Coronado Island:
- Explore the island on a Segway
- Explore the island by E-Scooter (this includes photos)
- Explore the island on a beach cruiser
Downtown San Diego
On the way back, we strolled around downtown’s waterfront region. This is where the vibrant pulse of urban life intertwines with the cultural tapestry of neighborhoods like Little Italy, offering a glimpse into the city’s ethnic diversity. You can stop by Little Italy for dinner. Mona Lisa Italian Foods is one of the best places to grab delicious old-world Italian food in an old-school setting.
Day 2
Breakfast
We had butter croissants and pain au chocolat from Parfait Paris bakery for breakfast and complimentary coffee from our hotel and headed to the first spot of the day.
La Jolla Cove
We began our day with an unforgettable aquatic adventure, swimming alongside sea lions in La Jolla Cove. It is a haven for marine life enthusiasts and one of the best spots for tide pooling.
We spent the entire morning swimming, soaking in the sunshine, and watching wildlife in their most playful mood.
I spotted so many birds from such a close distance without making too much effort. From osprey and brown pelicans to squirrels, seals, and sea lions. You can check out my birding guide and what I spotted at La Jolla Cove.
Balboa Park
Our next stop was the enchanting Balboa Park, a lush oasis with exquisite gardens, captivating museums, and architectural marvels displaying the cultural richness of San Diego.
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden
Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden is a splendid 2.5-acre botanical oasis named after the notable civic leader and philanthropist Inez Grant Parker. Located next to the Balboa Park Club, the rose garden features over 1,600 rose bushes, with more than 130 varieties of roses.
The garden features manicured pathways winding through lush greenery and vibrant blooms. It is a year-round destination, but it turns into something magical during Springtime when thousands of blossoms burst into full bloom.
Entry: Free
Casa Del Prado
Nestled in the heart of Balboa Park is a cultural landmark and an architectural gem. Constructed for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition, Casa del Prado displays Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, distinguished by ornate façade, red-tiled roofs, and intricate details inspired by Spanish and Mexican design.
Casa del Prado now serves as a dynamic center for the arts and hosts various cultural events, performances, and educational programs throughout the year. We strolled around its expansive courtyard, admiring the picturesque outdoor spaces, greenery, colorful tile work, etc.
Entry: Free
Spanish Village Art Center
The Spanish Village Art Center, established in 1937 as part of the historic Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, is a cherished destination for art enthusiasts and tourists. The Spanish Village exudes an old-world charm through its quaint cobblestone paths, colorful tiled roofs, and picturesque courtyards. It welcomes visitors with a kaleidoscope of artistic expression, boasting more than 30 active artist studios and galleries, each providing a unique insight into the resident artists’ creative process and craftsmanship.
It was a fun and inspiring walk around the courtyard, hopping from one studio to another. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, this is the place to shop!
Entry: Free
San Diego Museum of Art
The San Diego Museum of Art, established in 1926, is a renowned museum offering a captivating journey through the world of art and human creativity. The museum facade is a Spanish Colonial Revival-style building with arches, an ornate façade, and a tranquil courtyard embellished with lush gardens and fountains. It was like being transported into another world.
The museum had over 20,000 objects, ranging from European old masters to American paintings, Asian ceramics to South Asian sculptures, and contemporary works to decorative arts. Since we were low on time, we didn’t go inside the museum but explored the campus from the outside.
Admission: $20 for adults
Closed on Wednesdays
It was super hot that day, so we stopped by the Craft Cafe to grab a refreshing drink and snack.
If you have time, you can also visit the California Tower to get a breathtaking view of the city and learn more about the history of this place. This tower operates on a timed entry and exit system. Therefore, book your tickets in advance if you plan to visit. Moreover, the tower doesn’t have elevators and has 125 steps to climb to the viewing deck.
Cost: $10 for the tour
Please Note: The Botanical garden next to the Lily Pond is closed for renovation.
Have limited time to explore? Here’s a fun 2-hour GPS-guided scooter tour around Downtown and Balboa Park.
Balboa Park is gigantic, and it’s easy to get lost. Therefore, we recommend taking this walking tour that covers every nook and corner of this place and gives a deep insight into the history of this place. And the best part? This tour comes with a cup of coffee.
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter is where you treat your palate to a gastronomic extravaganza. This place is full of old eateries and trendy establishments, creating a culinary mosaic. This vibrant district is a great spot to go on a food tour or watch a show at Balboa Theatre. Here are some tours we recommend:
- Gaslamp Quarter Downtown San Diego Food Tour
- Gaslamp Quarter Food and Drink Tour – Brothels, Bites & Booze
Ballast Point Brewing Company
San Diego has rightfully earned its reputation as a craft beer mecca, so visiting a brewery was a must! We skipped lunch at Gaslamp Quarter and headed to one of the most loved breweries in the city, Ballast Point Brewing Company, located on India St.
San Diego is home to over 150 breweries, ranging from small-scale nano-breweries to well-established craft beer giants. The brewers are celebrated for their innovation and creativity, pushing the boundaries of traditional beer styles and experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques.
We took a tasting flight at Ballast Point Brewing Company, trying their best brews. And we loved them all. Each beer flavor was so good, including the IPAs (because I’m not a fan). So, to all beer lovers, I highly recommend this place.
Cost: $30 includes Food + Tasting flight
Little Italy
Next stop was Little Italy, a vibrant and charming neighborhood nestled along the waterfront, known for its culinary delights, artistic flair, and lively street scene. We were saving our appetite for a big Mexican meal in Old Town, so we grabbed a quick bite at Landini’s. This no-frills pizzeria offers thin-crust pizza by the slice and tastes delicious.
Cost: $10 per slice
Old Town
Finally, we headed to our last stop of the trip, the Old Town, a historic gem serving as a living testament to its early days as a Spanish and Mexican settlement.
We explored a few iconic sites like the Old Adobe Chapel, the Cosmopolitan Hotel, and the Whaley House, one of the most haunted houses in America.
Lastly, we headed to the most awaited eatery of the day, Casa Guadalajara, for dinner. This place is not just another Mexican restaurant in San Diego, it’s a vibe. As we entered the restaurant, we were transported straight to the streets of Guadalajara.
The restaurant has a lively ambiance with colorful decor, live mariachi music, and a vibrantly decorated outdoor patio. This place remains busy during peak hours, so expect a wait time of at least 20 minutes and be patient with the food. Trust me, it will be worth the wait.
We ordered a Taco platter and relished it with a bowl of complimentary nachos. Everything tasted delicious. Also, a special shout out to the staff. We told them we had a flight to catch, and they were kind enough to bring our food fast despite the rush.
That is how we spent two days in San Diego. I wish we had more time to explore. However, if you’re visiting for extended days, these are the things we recommend:
Other top locations:
USS Midway Museum
Take a step back in time and witness the awe-inspiring legacy of WWII firsthand. The USS Midway Museum is one of the top attractions in San Diego. The museum resides inside an enormous ship, the longest-serving aircraft carrier of the 20th century, featuring a collection of historic fighter jets and maritime artifacts.
Presidio Park
If you’re on the lookout for a unique view of the city skyline that doesn’t cost a penny, head to Presidio Park. Situated atop a hill overlooking Old Town, this park is a peaceful haven soaking in history and natural splendor. One of the most impressive sights here is the Junípero Serra Museum, a stunning Spanish Revival-style structure that pays homage to California’s early history. You can also explore the remains of the original Presidio and learn about the area’s earliest inhabitants through informative exhibits and guided tours.
You can also take the Harbor Cruise and explore the San Diego Bay and Cabrillo National Monument. Moreover, if you’re traveling with kids, a visit to the famous San Diego Zoo would be a fun edu-tainment activity.
San Diego is one of my favorite cities in the USA, thanks to its amazing weather, warm waters, stunning architecture, and easy wildlife spotting. This place is sure to leave you craving for more, and the good news is that it’s not too expensive. We spent $650 for two people, which covered food, accommodation, attraction tickets, and transportation.
Let us know your thoughts on our expenses, and feel free to ask any questions in the comments section.
