San Diego United States 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Itinerary for Traveling in San Diego, California, USA

Day 1: Beaches and Attractions

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at:
    • The Breakfast Club ( multiple locations) - Try their signature pancakes and omelets.
  • Beach Time: Head to:
    • La Jolla Cove (1200 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037) - Enjoy the white sand beach and crystal-clear waters. Take a dip, swim with sea lions, or simply relax.

Afternoon

  • Visit Attractions:
    • Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, San Diego, CA 92130) - Explore the beautiful hiking trails and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
    • USS Midway Museum (910 N Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101) - Learn about the history of naval aviation on this historic aircraft carrier.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy a seafood dinner at:
    • Anthony’s Fish Grotto (1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101) - Savor their fresh fish and seafood while enjoying the bay views.
  • Sunset: End your day with a romantic sunset view at:
    • The Hotel del Coronado Beach (1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118) - Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for the stunning beach views.

Day 2: Balboa Park and Downtown San Diego

Morning

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at:
    • Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop (726 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101) - Try their delicious tacos and Mexican dishes.
  • Explore Balboa Park:
    • Visit the beautiful gardens, museums, and architecture of this iconic park. Don’t miss:
      • The San Diego Museum of Man (1559 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101)
      • The San Diego Art Museum (1559 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101)

Afternoon

  • Visit the Gaslamp Quarter:
    • Explore this vibrant neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Don’t miss:
      • The historic architecture and beautiful streetlights
      • The famous Petco Park (162 W Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101) - Catch a Padres game if you’re visiting during baseball season

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Buona Forchetta (2910 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92110) - Savor their delicious Italian dishes and wood-fired pizzas.
  • Nightlife: End your night with a visit to the famous:
    • The Tipsy Crow (770 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101) - A lively bar with great drinks and live music.

Day 3: North Park and Mission Bay

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at:
    • Communal Coffee (2910 Historic Decatur Rd, San Diego, CA 92110) - Try their delicious coffee and pastries.
  • Explore North Park:
    • Visit the charming neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and breweries. Don’t miss:
      • The iconic 32nd Street Market (3201 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104)
      • The historic North Park Theatre (2895 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104)

Afternoon

  • Visit Mission Bay:
    • Take a stroll along the bay and enjoy the beautiful views. Don’t miss:
      • The scenic walking trails and bike paths
      • The famous Belmont Park (3145 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109) - A historic amusement park with great food and games.

Evening

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner at:
    • Anthony’s Fish Grotto (1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101) - Savor their fresh fish and seafood while enjoying the bay views.
  • Sunset: End your day with a romantic sunset view at:
    • The Hotel del Coronado Beach (1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118) - Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for the stunning beach views.

Things to Know

  • Weather: San Diego has a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Transportation:
    • The San Diego Trolley is a convenient way to get around the city.
    • Uber and Lyft are widely available, but be aware that traffic can be heavy during rush hour.
  • Safety: As with any city, be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

Tips

  • Parking: Be prepared for limited parking in some areas. Consider using public parking garages or street parking.
  • Food: San Diego has a vibrant food scene, but be sure to try some of the local specialties like fish tacos and craft beer.
  • Attractions: Some attractions may have long lines or wait times. Plan ahead and consider visiting during off-peak hours.

Accommodations

There are plenty of great hotels and resorts in San Diego to choose from, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Luxury:
    • The Hotel del Coronado Beach (1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118)
    • The Fairmont Grand Del Mar (5200 Grand Del Mar Ct, San Diego, CA 92130)
  • Mid-range:
    • The Westin Gaslamp Quarter (910 Broadway Circle, San Diego, CA 92101)
    • The Hotel Palomar San Diego (1047 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101)
  • Budget-friendly:
    • The Hostel La Jolla (1111 Geronimo Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037)
    • The HI San Diego Downtown (521 W Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109)