San Diego, United States-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Time

  • Morning: Arrive in San Diego and check-in to your hotel. Consider staying in the Gaslamp Quarter or Downtown area for easy access to public transportation.
  • Afternoon: Head to La Jolla Cove, a picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Anthony’s Fish Grotto, a seafood restaurant with stunning views of the bay.

Day 2: USS Midway and Downtown San Diego

  • Morning: Visit the USS Midway Museum, an aircraft carrier turned museum showcasing naval history and interactive exhibits.
  • Afternoon: Explore Downtown San Diego, including the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Petco Park (home of the Padres), and the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy.
  • Evening: Dine at Lion’s Share, a modern American restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 3: Balboa Park and Zoo

  • Morning: Visit Balboa Park, a massive urban park featuring multiple museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.
  • Afternoon: Spend time exploring the San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals from around the globe.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Patio on Lamont Street, an outdoor dining spot with a focus on seasonal small plates.

Day 4: Coronado Island

  • Morning: Take a ferry or drive to Coronado Island, connected to the mainland by a scenic bridge.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Hotel del Coronado, a historic beachfront hotel and popular spot for photos. Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches, or take a stroll through its charming village.
  • Evening: Dine at The Beach House Restaurant, offering stunning views of the bay and fresh seafood.

Day 5: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

  • Morning: Explore Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, featuring breathtaking coastal views, hiking trails, and unique sandstone formations.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Ho Chi Minh Trailhead, a scenic spot with great views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Cottage La Jolla, an upscale restaurant with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Day 6: Carlsbad and Legoland

  • Morning: Head to Carlsbad, home to the famous Legoland California theme park, geared towards families.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Golf Park, featuring mini-golf, an arcade, and a variety of attractions for all ages.
  • Evening: Dine at The Farmhouse Cafe, a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on local ingredients.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some last-minute time exploring your favorite neighborhood or beach before departing San Diego.

Things to Know

  • Weather: San Diego has mild year-round temperatures, but it can get windy and cool in the mornings and evenings.
  • Transportation: Public transportation options include buses (MTS) and the Trolley. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is also convenient.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in areas with limited lighting.

Tips

  • Book ahead: Reserve restaurants and attractions in advance to ensure availability.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular spots like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo can get crowded, so plan accordingly.
  • Enjoy the sunshine: Make the most of San Diego’s perfect weather by spending time outdoors!

Other Interests

  • Surfing: Try surfing or paddleboarding in La Jolla Cove or at one of the many surf spots along the coast.
  • Whale watching: Take a guided tour to spot gray whales, which migrate through San Diego waters from December to May.
  • Craft beer: Visit some of the city’s many craft breweries, such as Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens.