3-Day Family Adventure: San Diego's Outdoor Sights and Delights for Locals
San Diego, California
3 days
About San Diego, California
Welcome to San Diego, California, a sun-soaked paradise known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and world-class attractions. Explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter, brimming with unique shops, gourmet restaurants, and Victorian-era buildings. Visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,500 rare and endangered animals, or immerse yourself in marine life at SeaWorld San Diego. Enjoy the breathtaking views at La Jolla Cove, a perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Don't miss Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre urban cultural park housing 17 museums, beautiful gardens, and the Old Globe Theatre. With its perfect weather, San Diego is a year-round destination offering a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, San Diego has something for everyone.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Historical and Cultural Experiences in Downtown San Diego
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the USS Midway Museum. This historic aircraft carrier offers a fascinating look into naval history.
Lunch
Have lunch at Seaport Village. This waterfront shopping and dining complex offers a variety of eateries with views of the San Diego Bay.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the New Children's Museum. This innovative museum offers hands-on art experiences for children of all ages.
Dinner
Have dinner in Little Italy. This vibrant neighborhood offers a variety of Italian restaurants serving authentic dishes.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Old Point Loma Lighthouse at Cabrillo National Monument. Enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the city lights.
Day 3
Coastal Adventures in La Jolla and Del Mar
Morning
Start your final day with a visit to the Birch Aquarium at Scripps. This public exploration center offers interactive exhibits showcasing marine life.
Lunch
Have lunch in La Jolla. This upscale seaside village offers a variety of dining options with views of the Pacific Ocean.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. This coastal state park offers hiking trails with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Dinner
Have dinner in Del Mar. This seaside city offers a variety of dining options, from casual beachfront eateries to upscale restaurants.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Depending on the season, you can enjoy a variety of events, from horse races to concerts.
Attractions in Itinerary (17)
1San Diego Zoo
World-renowned zoo housing over 3,700 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies.
2Balboa Park
A 1,200-acre urban cultural park with 17 museums, several gardens, and the world-renowned San Diego Zoo.
3San Diego Natural History Museum
A museum in Balboa Park that focuses on the natural history and unique biodiversity of Southern California.
4San Diego Air & Space Museum
The San Diego Air & Space Museum is a must-visit for aviation and space enthusiasts. It features a vast collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft.
5Gaslamp Quarter
A lively downtown neighborhood known for its nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
6Embarcadero
A lively waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and historic ships to tour.
7USS Midway Museum
An historical naval aircraft carrier museum located in downtown San Diego.
8Seaport Village
A waterfront shopping and dining complex adjacent to San Diego Bay.
9New Children's Museum
The New Children's Museum in San Diego is a dynamic and interactive space that encourages children to think, play, and create.
10Little Italy
A chic, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, packed with trendy cocktail bars, brewpubs and restaurants with bustling patios.
11Old Point Loma Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse located on the Point Loma peninsula, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the city.
12Cabrillo National Monument
Located at the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula in San Diego, California. It commemorates the landing of Juan RodrÃguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542.
13Birch Aquarium at Scripps
The Birch Aquarium at Scripps is a public exploration center for the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography, offering a window into the exciting world of research and conservation.
14La Jolla
A picturesque seaside neighborhood offering beautiful beaches, upscale shopping, and dining.
15Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
A coastal state park offering hiking trails, beaches, and a lagoon that's home to migrating seabirds.
16Del Mar
Del Mar is a charming seaside town in San Diego, known for its horse racing track, upscale dining, and stunning beaches.
17Del Mar Fairgrounds
The Del Mar Fairgrounds is a popular event venue in San Diego, hosting a variety of events including the annual San Diego County Fair.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
California Burrito
A San Diego special, this burrito is typically filled with carne asada, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and French fries.
Fish Tacos
A popular dish in San Diego due to its proximity to the ocean, these tacos are usually made with grilled or fried fish, cabbage, and a creamy sauce.
Carne Asada Fries
This dish is a local favorite in San Diego, consisting of French fries topped with carne asada, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.
Stone IPA
A popular local beer brewed in San Diego, known for its strong hop flavor and high alcohol content.
Green Flash West Coast IPA
Another local beer, this IPA is known for its strong hoppy flavor and is a favorite among San Diego's craft beer enthusiasts.
San Diego-style Sushi
San Diego's version of sushi often includes Mexican ingredients, such as jalapenos and cilantro, reflecting the city's multicultural influences.
Chilled Sea Urchin
San Diego, being a coastal city, offers fresh sea urchin. It's often served chilled and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
Date Shake
A sweet, creamy drink made with dates, a popular fruit in Southern California, and ice cream.
Smoked Fish
With its access to fresh seafood, smoked fish is a popular dish in San Diego, often served with crackers and cream cheese.
Avocado Toast
Given California's abundant avocado production, this simple yet delicious dish is a must-try in San Diego.
Craft Cocktails
San Diego's craft cocktail scene is thriving, with many bars offering unique and innovative drinks using local ingredients.
Kombucha
A fermented tea drink that's popular in health-conscious San Diego, often flavored with fruits or herbs.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit San Diego, California is typically from March to May and September to November. During these periods, the city experiences mild, pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The spring season, March to May, is particularly beautiful with blooming flowers. The fall season, September to November, is also a great time to visit as the summer crowds have thinned out and the weather is still quite warm. However, San Diego is known for its year-round mild climate, so it's a great destination any time of year.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 15 | Mon | Martin Luther King Jr. Day |
February 19 | Mon | Presidents' Day |
May 27 | Mon | Memorial Day |
June 19 | Wed | Juneteenth |
July 4 | Thu | Independence Day |
September 2 | Mon | Labor Day |
October 14 | Mon | Columbus Day |
November 11 | Mon | Veterans Day |
November 28 | Thu | Thanksgiving Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
How to get around
Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular option for getting around San Diego. There are several car rental companies available at the airport and throughout the city. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Public Transportation
San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates bus and trolley services throughout the city. The trolley service is particularly useful for tourists, as it connects downtown San Diego with popular attractions like Old Town, Mission Valley, and the Mexican border.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in San Diego. These services can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Bicycles
San Diego is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in the city, or use the city's bike-sharing program, DecoBike.
Pedestrian
San Diego's downtown area is very walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within a short distance of each other. The city's pleasant climate makes walking an enjoyable way to get around.
Ferries and Water Taxis
San Diego's waterfront location means that ferries and water taxis are a viable mode of transportation. They can be a scenic and enjoyable way to travel between downtown San Diego, Coronado Island, and other waterfront locations.
Train
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner and the COASTER commuter train provide service along the coast between San Diego and other Southern California cities. This can be a convenient way to visit nearby destinations like Carlsbad or Oceanside.
Airport Shuttle
Many hotels in San Diego offer shuttle services to and from San Diego International Airport. This can be a convenient option if you're staying at one of these hotels.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available in San Diego, particularly in the downtown area and at the airport. They can be a convenient option for short trips or if you prefer not to drive.
Important information
Currency$ USD
Time zoneUTC-5
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone911
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage120 V
Things to know about San Diego, California as a first time visitor
1
San Diego has a Mediterranean climate, which means it has warm, dry summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in the summer is around 76°F (24°C), while in winter it's around 66°F (19°C).
2
San Diego is a very walkable city, especially in areas like Downtown, Little Italy, and the Gaslamp Quarter. However, if you're planning to explore areas further afield, you might want to consider renting a car.
3
Public transportation is available and includes buses, trolleys, and trains, but service can be limited in some areas and during certain times of the day.
4
Tipping is customary in San Diego. It's standard to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, and it's also common to tip taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff.
5
San Diego is a very diverse city with a large Hispanic population, so you'll find a lot of authentic Mexican food. The city is also known for its craft beer scene.
6
San Diego is a very health-conscious city, with lots of options for outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and yoga. There are also many farmers markets and health food stores.
7
The city is very pet-friendly, with many hotels, restaurants, and parks allowing dogs. There's even a dog beach in Ocean Beach where dogs can run off-leash.
8
San Diego is in the Pacific Time Zone and observes daylight saving time from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November.
9
The city is known for its military presence, with several bases located in and around San Diego. You might see military aircraft flying overhead or Navy ships in the harbor.
10
San Diego has a high cost of living compared to other U.S. cities, so be prepared for higher prices for food, drinks, and accommodations.
11
The city is very environmentally conscious, with many initiatives to reduce waste and promote sustainability. You'll find recycling bins throughout the city, and many restaurants and cafes offer discounts for bringing your own cup or container.
12
San Diego has a casual dress code. Even at nicer restaurants and events, you'll see people wearing jeans and t-shirts. However, some places might require a dress code, so it's always a good idea to check beforehand.
13
The city is very safe, but like any large city, it has areas that are best avoided at night. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
14
San Diego has a strong surf culture, and you'll find many surf shops and schools if you want to try it out. Remember to always respect the local surf etiquette.
15
The city has a ban on smoking in all public places, including parks and beaches. Some hotels also have strict no-smoking policies.
16
San Diego has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues. The legal drinking age is 21, and you'll need to show ID to buy alcohol.
17
The city is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including Comic-Con, the San Diego County Fair, and the Festival of Sail. It's worth checking the local event calendar before your visit.
18
San Diego has a large homeless population, particularly in the Downtown area. While most homeless people are harmless, it's best to avoid giving money directly and instead donate to local charities.
19
The city is very bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and bike rental services. However, California law requires anyone under the age of 18 to wear a helmet when riding a bike.
20
San Diego is close to the U.S.-Mexico border, and you can easily visit Tijuana for a day trip. Just remember to bring your passport and check the visa requirements if you're not a U.S. citizen.
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Swimsuit
Beach cover-up
Sandals
Walking shoes
Hat for sun protection
Sunglasses
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Lip balm with SPF
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First-aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash
Hotel reservation confirmation
Car rental confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Emergency contact information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Portable power bank
Travel adapter (if needed)
Laptop and charger (if needed)
Miscellaneous items
Books or e-reader for leisure reading
Travel pillow and blanket for comfort
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Beach towel
Umbrella
Backpack or day bag for daily essentials
Weather Conditions
San Diego, California, is known for its mild and pleasant climate throughout the year. However, it's always wise to be prepared for the weather conditions you might encounter during your visit. The city generally experiences a Mediterranean climate, which means dry, warm summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F (24-29°C), while winter temperatures can drop to 48-65°F (9-18°C). If you're visiting in the summer, pack lightweight, breathable clothing, but don't forget a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. The city's coastal location can lead to sudden changes in weather, with fog and marine layer clouds often rolling in unexpectedly. This is particularly common in May and June, a phenomenon known locally as "May Gray" and "June Gloom". So, even if you're visiting in these months, it's a good idea to carry a light jacket or sweater. San Diego gets most of its rain in the winter months, from December to February. If you're visiting during this time, pack a raincoat or umbrella. However, rainfall is generally light and doesn't last long. Despite its sunny reputation, San Diego can also experience occasional heat waves, particularly in late summer and early fall. If you're visiting during these periods, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect against the strong California sun. Lastly, if you're planning to visit the beach, be aware that the Pacific Ocean can be quite cool, even in the summer. The water temperature rarely rises above 70°F (21°C), so if you're planning to swim, you might want to consider a wetsuit. In conclusion, San Diego's weather is generally mild and pleasant, but it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 18° / 8° | January is the coldest month in San Diego, but it's still mild compared to most places. Expect occasional rain showers. |
February | 18° / 9° | February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a mix of sunny and rainy days. |
March | 19° / 11° | March brings the beginning of spring, with more sunshine and slightly warmer temperatures. |
April | 21° / 12° | April is a pleasant month with lots of sunshine and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities. |
May | 21° / 14° | May is a beautiful month with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures, making it ideal for beach activities. |
June | 24° / 16° | June marks the beginning of summer, with longer days and warmer temperatures, perfect for exploring the city and beaches. |
July | 27° / 18° | July is the warmest month in San Diego, with lots of sunshine and high temperatures, perfect for beach and water activities. |
August | 28° / 19° | August continues the summer heat, with plenty of sunshine and warm nights, making it ideal for nightlife and outdoor dining. |
September | 27° / 18° | September is a lovely month with warm temperatures and less crowd, making it a great time to visit. |
October | 24° / 15° | October brings cooler temperatures and less crowd, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. |
November | 21° / 11° | November sees a drop in temperature, with cooler nights and less crowd, making it a great time for sightseeing. |
December | 18° / 9° | December is a cooler month with shorter days, but still mild enough for outdoor activities and holiday events. |
Did you know?
Places near by San Diego, California
La Jolla Cove
Famous for its clear waters and abundant marine life, this is a favorite spot for snorkeling, scuba diving, and swimming.
Legoland California
A theme park, miniature park, and aquarium located in Carlsbad, based on the Lego toy brand.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
A coastal state park located in the community of La Jolla, off North Torrey Pines Road.
Julian
A historic gold mining town located in the Cuyamaca Mountains. Known for its apple pies.
Temecula
Known for its wineries, old town, and golf courses.
Disneyland Park
The first of two theme parks built at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, opened on July 17, 1955.
Joshua Tree National Park
A vast protected area in southern California. It's characterized by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes.
Santa Catalina Island
An island off the coast of California known for its wildlife, dive sites and Mt. Orizaba, its highest peak.
Palm Springs
A desert resort city in Riverside County, California, known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses and spas.
Los Angeles
Known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic diversity, and the entertainment industry.
