San Diego comes with 70 miles of pristine coastline, year-round sunshine, and a laid-back California vibe that’s hard to resist.
The historic streets of Old Town, the world-famous San Diego Zoo, and other Southern California gems offer something for every type of traveler.
If you’re seeking beach adventures, cultural experiences, or simply want to unwind with fish tacos and ocean views, San Diego delivers without the overwhelming pace of larger cities.
Try and explore America’s Finest City this year. This comprehensive guide breaks down the perfect San Diego itinerary based on how many days you have available.
From quick weekend escapes to extended 10-day adventures, we’ve mapped out exactly where to go, what to eat, and where to stay.
Itinerary Summary
- 2 Days in San Diego – 48 hours of fast-paced weekends
- 3 Days in San Diego – The classic weekend getaway
- 4 Days in San Diego – Extended trips for exploration
- 5 Days in San Diego – Complete first-timer’s experience
- 7 Days in San Diego – Explore beyond the tourist spots
- 10 Days in San Diego – Ultimate Southern California vacation
- Getting Around San Diego
- Where to Stay in San Diego
- San Diego Travel Tips
Planning your trip? Check out our guide on the best time to visit San Diego for ideal weather and events before building your itinerary.
2 Days in San Diego: 48-Hour Express Adventure
This lightning-fast itinerary works best for business travelers extending their trip or locals from nearby cities seeking a quick escape. Even with just 48 hours, you’ll hit the absolute must-sees without feeling rushed. Perfect for solo travelers or couples who want Instagram-worthy moments and classic San Diego experiences packed into one power weekend.
Day 1: Coastal Classics
Morning: Start at La Jolla Cove by 8 AM to watch sea lions basking on the rocks before crowds arrive. The calm morning light makes for stunning photos, and you might spot dolphins offshore. Walk the coastal trail to Ellen Browning Scripps Park for panoramic ocean views.
Lunch: Head to The Taco Stand in La Jolla for authentic Baja-style tacos. The carne asada is legendary among locals. Grab your order to go and eat at nearby Scripps Park while watching the waves.
Afternoon: Drive south to Balboa Park and spend three hours exploring the San Diego Zoo, one of the world’s finest wildlife parks. Focus on the Panda Canyon, Africa Rocks, and the Skyfari aerial tram for sweeping park views. Don’t skip the guided bus tour; it covers 75% of the zoo efficiently.
Evening: Sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is non-negotiable. Arrive by 6 PM to find parking and claim your spot on the sandstone cliffs. Afterward, grab dinner at Liberty Public Market in Point Loma, where you’ll find everything from fresh oysters to gourmet pizza under one roof.
Day 2: Downtown and Beaches
Morning: Fuel up with breakfast at The Cottage in La Jolla. Their lemon ricotta pancakes are worth the wait. Then head to Coronado Island via the iconic Coronado Bridge. Rent bikes and cruise along the Silver Strand, stopping at Hotel del Coronado for photos of this Victorian-era landmark.
Lunch: Grab fish tacos at Miguel’s Cocina on Coronado, then relax on Coronado Beach, consistently ranked among America’s best beaches. The soft sand and gentle waves make it perfect for swimming or simply lounging.
Afternoon: Return to downtown San Diego and explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter. Pop into local boutiques, coffee shops, and art galleries along Fifth Avenue. If time allows, visit the USS Midway Museum for a self-guided tour of this retired aircraft carrier.
Evening: End your whirlwind tour with dinner at Puesto in the Seaport District, where modern Mexican cuisine meets harbor views. Take a sunset stroll along the Embarcadero before calling it a night.
Best Homes to Stay for a 2-Day San Diego Trip:
3 Days in San Diego: The Perfect Weekend Escape
Perfect for a quick reset or short escape from work, this itinerary suits couples, families, or friend groups seeking maximum experience with minimal travel time. This 3-day plan works brilliantly for weekend trips, mini vacations, birthday celebrations, bachelorette parties, romantic weekends, or special events—all while exploring some of the best things to do in San Diego.
Day 1: Beach Vibes and Sunset Views
Morning: Begin at Pacific Beach for breakfast at Kono’s Café, famous for its massive breakfast burritos. Walk off your meal with a stroll along the Pacific Beach Boardwalk, soaking in the quintessential SoCal beach scene. Rent a beach cruiser and ride down to Mission Beach.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Draft in Mission Beach; their fish and chips hit different with ocean breezes. Spend the afternoon at Belmont Park riding the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster or simply lounging on Mission Beach. The wide sandy beach is ideal for volleyball, sunbathing, or wave jumping.
Evening: Drive to Sunset Cliffs for golden hour magic, then head to Ocean Beach for dinner at Wonderland Ocean Pub. The rooftop views pair perfectly with their craft beer selection. End the night with a walk down Newport Avenue, checking out quirky shops and the local surf culture.
Day 2: Culture and Wildlife
Morning: Start early at Balboa Park. Arrive by 9 AM to explore before it gets crowded. Visit the Museum of Us or the San Diego Museum of Art if culture calls, or head straight to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo. Prioritize sections based on your interests, but don’t miss the polar bears and African plains exhibits.
Lunch: Eat at Panama 66 in Balboa Park, an outdoor sculpture garden restaurant serving California cuisine with craft cocktails. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for recharging mid-adventure.
Afternoon: Continue exploring Balboa Park’s gardens and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The Botanical Building and lily pond make for stunning photos. Walk through the Japanese Friendship Garden for a peaceful escape.
Evening: Head to Little Italy for an evening passeggiata down India Street. Grab dinner at Juniper & Ivy for innovative California cuisine, or keep it casual at Queenstown Public House. Finish with gelato from Pappalecco while watching locals play bocce ball.
Day 3: History and Harbor
Morning: Explore Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, where California began. Walk through preserved adobe buildings and learn about Mexican and early American history. Grab breakfast at Café Coyote and try their Mexican hot chocolate and chilaquiles.
Afternoon: Drive to Point Loma and visit Cabrillo National Monument for spectacular views of San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The tide pools at the monument are best during low tide. Grab lunch at Stone Brewing World Bistro in Liberty Station, a converted Naval Training Center with outstanding beer and farm-to-table food.
Evening: Head downtown to explore the Embarcadero and Seaport Village. Consider booking a sunset harbor cruise or simply walking the waterfront. Dinner at The Fish Market offers fresh seafood with bay views. Cap off your trip with drinks at Top of the Hyatt, where you’ll get 360-degree city views.
Best Homes to Stay for a 3-Day San Diego Weekend:
4 Days in San Diego: For The Balanced Explorer
This four-day itinerary strikes the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation, ideal for families with kids or couples wanting to experience San Diego without burnout. Great for extended weekends, spring break trips, or when you’re celebrating milestones like anniversaries and want dedicated beach time built into your exploration days.
Day 1: North County Beaches
Morning: Drive north to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for a morning hike along the clifftop trails. The views of the Pacific are breathtaking, and you might spot paragliders launching from the Gliderport. Finish at Torrey Pines State Beach, one of San Diego’s most pristine stretches of sand.
Lunch: Head to Del Mar for lunch at Board & Brew. Their Surfin’ California sandwich is a local favorite. Walk around Del Mar Plaza and explore the charming coastal village.
Afternoon: Continue north to Cardiff State Beach for excellent surfing or paddleboarding. The reef break creates consistent waves, and rental shops line Coast Highway 101. Or simply relax on the sand with a good book.
Evening: Grab sunset dinner at Pacific Coast Grill in Cardiff overlooking the ocean. The seafood is fresh and the atmosphere is laid-back. Drive back through Encinitas, stopping at Lofty Coffee for an evening pick-me-up.
Day 2: Zoo and Balboa Park Deep Dive
Morning: Dedicate a full morning to the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, about 35 minutes north of downtown. The Africa Tram and Flightline Safari offer unique perspectives. This expansive park feels more like an African safari than a traditional zoo.
Lunch: Eat at one of the Safari Park’s restaurants. Lagoon Grill has decent options with shaded outdoor seating.
Afternoon: Return to Balboa Park and explore museums you missed on shorter itineraries. The Fleet Science Center is perfect for families, while the San Diego Air & Space Museum thrills aviation enthusiasts. The park’s gardens and architecture deserve leisurely exploration.
Evening: Dine in Hillcrest, San Diego’s vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhood. Try Trust Restaurant for modern American fare or keep it casual at Crack Shack for elevated fried chicken. Walk down University Avenue to experience the neighborhood’s energy.
Day 3: Coronado and Downtown
Morning: Ferry from downtown to Coronado Island. The boat ride offers fantastic skyline views and costs just a few dollars. Rent bikes at the ferry landing and explore the island at your own pace. Stop at Coronado Beach, consistently rated one of America’s finest.
Lunch: Lunch at Clayton’s Coffee Shop, a Coronado institution serving classic American breakfast and lunch since 1947. The retro diner vibe adds to the charm.
Afternoon: Tour Hotel del Coronado, learning about its history and famous guests. The Victorian architecture and beachfront setting make it one of America’s most iconic hotels. Walk the grounds and imagine the hotel’s glamorous past.
Evening: Return downtown via ferry and explore the Gaslamp Quarter. Have dinner at Searsucker for upscale American comfort food in a lively atmosphere. Bar hop along Fifth Avenue or catch live music at one of the many venues.
Day 4: Coastal Leisure
Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your rental. Head to La Jolla for late morning exploring. Walk through the village, checking out art galleries and boutique shops. Stop at Bobboi Natural Gelato for a mid-morning treat.
Afternoon: Kayak tour of La Jolla’s Seven Sea Caves departing from La Jolla Shores. Paddle through crystal-clear waters alongside sea lions and garibaldi fish. If kayaking isn’t your thing, snorkel at La Jolla Cove instead; it’s like swimming in an aquarium.
Lunch: Grab fish tacos at Oscar’s Mexican Seafood before heading back to shore.
Evening: Final sunset at Windansea Beach in La Jolla, known for its surf shack and photogenic rock formations. End your San Diego adventure with dinner at George’s at the Cove, where ocean-view dining meets California fine dining.
Best Homes to Stay for a 4-Day San Diego Trip:
5 Days in San Diego: The Complete First-Timer’s Experience
Five days gives first-time visitors the complete San Diego experience without rushing, perfect for families planning their annual vacation or friend groups celebrating reunions. This duration allows you to see major attractions while discovering hidden local favorites. Ideal for school breaks, summer vacations, or when you want to truly understand why San Diegans claim to live in America’s Finest City.
Day 1: Downtown Discovery
Morning: Start at the USS Midway Museum when it opens at 10 AM to avoid crowds. This decommissioned aircraft carrier offers audio tours narrated by veterans, giving you an authentic naval experience. Climb up to the flight deck for harbor views and explore vintage aircraft.
Lunch: Walk to Embarcadero and grab lunch at Carnitas’ Snack Shack. Their namesake carnitas are incredible. Eat outside on the bay with sailboats drifting past.
Afternoon: Stroll through Seaport Village, a waterfront shopping and dining complex with harbor views. Continue to the Gaslamp Quarter for afternoon coffee at Better Buzz and explore the historic architecture. This 16-block neighborhood showcases Victorian-era buildings now housing restaurants and shops.
Evening: Dinner at Ironside Fish & Oyster in Little Italy brings fresh seafood in a stylish setting. Walk through the neighborhood afterward. Thursday nights feature a Mercato farmers market with live music and local vendors from May through November.
Day 2: Balboa Park and Zoo Marathon
Morning: Enter Balboa Park early and spend your entire morning at the San Diego Zoo. With over 3,700 animals across 100 acres, you could easily spend all day here. Take the Skyfari aerial tram for overview perspectives and use the Kangaroo Bus to cover ground efficiently.
Lunch: Eat at Albert’s Restaurant inside the zoo. It’s surprisingly good with options for all dietary preferences.
Afternoon: After the zoo, walk through Balboa Park’s El Prado promenade, lined with Spanish Colonial Revival museums. Even if you don’t enter museums, the architecture and outdoor spaces are stunning. The Botanical Building’s lily pond is Instagram gold.
Evening: Drive to North Park for dinner at Tajima Ramen or El Comal for modern Mexican. This hipster neighborhood features craft breweries, vintage shops, and street art. Grab drinks at Modern Times Beer or catch live music at The Observatory North Park.
Day 3: Beach Day Extravaganza
Morning: Hit La Jolla Shores early for calmer waters perfect for swimming and kayaking. Rent a kayak and paddle out to the sea caves, guides point out marine life along the way. The protected cove makes this San Diego’s most family-friendly beach.
Lunch: Lunch at The Promiscuous Fork food truck near La Jolla Shores, their Korean fusion tacos are outstanding. Alternatively, head to La Jolla village for more options.
Afternoon: Drive to Scripps Pier and Beach for the afternoon. This long pier extends into the Pacific, creating a scenic backdrop for beach activities. The wide sandy beach rarely gets crowded, and the water is typically calmer than neighboring beaches.
Evening: Sunset at Torrey Pines State Beach, then drive to Del Mar for dinner at Pacifica Del Mar. The seafood restaurant offers ocean views and a refined coastal atmosphere. End the night with a walk through charming Del Mar village.
Day 4: Old Town and Point Loma
Morning: Spend the morning in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park exploring California’s birthplace. Free walking tours provide context about Mexican and early American history. Visit preserved adobe buildings and watch artisans demonstrate traditional crafts.
Lunch: Authentic Mexican food at Casa de Reyes in Old Town. Eat in the courtyard for the full experience. Their margaritas and mole are local favorites.
Afternoon: Drive to Point Loma and visit Cabrillo National Monument. Walk down to the tide pools during low tide to see anemones, crabs, and starfish. The views from the monument encompass downtown, Coronado, and the Pacific Ocean.
Evening: Explore Liberty Public Market in the Liberty Station Arts District for dinner. This renovated Navy training center now houses a food hall with diverse vendors. Browse the arts district’s galleries and shops after eating. End at Shelter Island for waterfront sunset views.
Day 5: Coronado and Relaxation
Morning: Take the ferry to Coronado Island and rent beach cruisers. Bike around the island, stopping at Coronado Beach for swimming and sunbathing. The sparkling golden sand contains mica minerals that shimmer in sunlight.
Lunch: Lunch at Coronado Brewing Company for craft beer and elevated pub food. Their outdoor beer garden is dog-friendly and family-welcoming.
Afternoon: Tour Hotel del Coronado and learn about its haunted history and famous visitors like Marilyn Monroe. Walk the grounds and shop at the hotel’s boutiques. If your budget allows, enjoy afternoon tea at the hotel’s restaurant.
Evening: Ferry back to San Diego and have your final dinner at Kettner Exchange in Little Italy. The creative small plates and craft cocktails make for a memorable farewell meal. Reflect on your San Diego adventures while watching the sunset over the bay.
Best Homes to Stay for a 5-Day San Diego Adventure:
7 Days in San Diego: Beaches, Food, and Hidden Gems
A full week in San Diego allows you to explore like a local, discovering neighborhood gems beyond tourist hotspots. This itinerary works wonderfully for remote workers extending their stay, multi-generational family vacations, or groups celebrating special occasions like milestone birthdays. You’ll have time to revisit favorite spots while venturing to lesser-known treasures that make San Diego special.
Day 1-3: Follow the 5-Day Itinerary
Start with Days 1-3 from the 5-day itinerary above, covering downtown, Balboa Park, the Zoo, and beach essentials. This foundation ensures you experience San Diego’s greatest hits before diving into deeper exploration.
Day 4: North County Adventure
Morning: Drive to Carlsbad and explore the Flower Fields if visiting March through May. Acres of colorful ranunculus blooms cascade down hillsides. Otherwise, visit Carlsbad Village for boutique shopping and beach access. Stop at Lofty Coffee for morning fuel.
Lunch: Lunch at Pizza Port in Carlsbad Village combines excellent craft beer with surprisingly good pizza. The local surfer vibe keeps things casual.
Afternoon: Head to Oceanside Pier, the longest wooden pier on the West Coast. Walk out to the end for 360-degree ocean views. Rent a surfboard and take a lesson at Oceanside Beach, known for its consistent waves and sandy bottom.
Evening: Dinner at 333 Pacific in Oceanside offers farm-to-table California cuisine in a historic downtown setting. Walk around the revitalized downtown area, which has transformed into an arts and culture hub.
Day 5: East County Exploration
Morning: Drive inland to Julian, a charming mountain town about an hour from San Diego. This former gold mining town is famous for apple pies. Start at Mom’s Pie House or Julian Pie Company for breakfast pie—yes, pie for breakfast is acceptable here.
Afternoon: Explore Julian’s antique shops and art galleries along Main Street. Hike the Cedar Creek Falls Trail if you’re up for adventure. It’s strenuous but rewards hikers with a waterfall and a swimming hole. Alternatively, take a gentler walk around Lake Cuyamaca.
Lunch: Grab a sandwich at the Julian Cafe before heading back.
Evening: Return to San Diego via the scenic Sunrise Highway. Stop at Mount Helix Park in La Mesa for panoramic sunset views encompassing the entire county from mountains to ocean. Dinner at Farmer’s Table in La Mesa serves comfort food with locally-sourced ingredients.
Day 6: South Bay and Border Culture
Morning: Head south to Chula Vista and kayak through the Chula Vista Nature Center’s bay preserve. The calm waters and abundant bird life make for peaceful paddling. Alternatively, visit Living Coast Discovery Center to see native birds and marine animals.
Lunch: Drive to Imperial Beach for lunch at Koz’s Mini Burgers. Tiny burgers packed with flavor. This laid-back beach town feels like San Diego from decades past.
Afternoon: Walk to Imperial Beach Pier and spend the afternoon on the sand. This is San Diego’s most southern beach, with a local vibe free from tourist crowds. Check out Pier Plaza’s murals and local surf culture.
Evening: Head to nearby Barrio Logan for dinner at Las Cuatro Milpas, a local institution serving simple, authentic Mexican food since 1933. Explore Chicano Park and its vibrant murals celebrating Mexican-American culture. End at Border X Brewing for innovative craft beers.
Day 7: Relaxation and Favorites
Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your rental. Spend the morning revisiting your favorite beach or neighborhood from earlier in the week. Maybe return to La Jolla for more sea lion watching or back to Balboa Park for museums you skipped.
Lunch: Brunch at Breakfast Republic in North Park. Their bacon flight and creative pancakes are local favorites. This trendy spot perfectly captures San Diego’s brunch culture.
Afternoon: Explore whatever you missed or want to see again. Consider the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas, the Maritime Museum, or simply more beach time. This is your flex day for spontaneous adventures.
Evening: Final dinner at Mister A’s offers stunning skyline views and upscale California cuisine. It’s expensive but memorable. Alternatively, keep it casual at Hodad’s in Ocean Beach for massive burgers and old-school diner vibes. Toast to your San Diego week with local craft beer and sunset views.
Best Homes to Stay for a 7-Day San Diego Experience:
10 Days in San Diego: Ultimate Southern California Trip
Ten days transform a vacation into an immersive experience where San Diego starts feeling like home. This extended itinerary suits digital nomads, sabbatical travelers, or anyone wanting to truly understand Southern California living. You’ll establish favorite coffee shops, discover neighborhood rhythms, and venture beyond San Diego proper to explore the broader region; all at a pace that allows for spontaneity and rest days.
Days 1-7: Follow the 7-Day Itinerary
Begin with the comprehensive 7-day plan, ensuring you’ve covered San Diego’s essential experiences and major neighborhoods. By day seven, you’ll have your bearings and understand which areas deserve return visits.
Day 8: Day Trip to Temecula Wine Country
Morning: Drive an hour north to Temecula Valley Wine Country for a complete change of scenery. Start at Wilson Creek Winery for their famous Almond Champagne and breakfast on the patio. The rolling vineyard views feel worlds away from coastal San Diego.
Afternoon: Book a wine tour that hits 3-4 wineries. Ponte Winery, Leoness Cellars, and Callaway Vineyard are all excellent. Most tours include tastings and lunch. The Mediterranean climate produces surprisingly good wines, especially reds.
Evening: Have dinner at Devilicious in Old Town Temecula before driving back. The hour-long return drive gives the wine time to wear off. Alternatively, book a hotel in Temecula and return to San Diego the next morning.
Day 9: Waterfront Adventures and Marine Life
Morning: Start with a whale watching cruise from the Embarcadero. Gray whales migrate past San Diego from December to April, while blue whales appear from summer through fall. Even without whales, you’ll see dolphins and sea lions. Book with San Diego Whale Watch or Hornblower Cruises.
Lunch: Grab fish tacos at The Brigantine on Harbor Island after your cruise. The harborfront location and fresh seafood make this a San Diego staple.
Afternoon: Visit Birch Aquarium at Scripps in La Jolla to learn about Southern California’s marine ecosystems. The exhibits showcase local sea life you may have spotted while kayaking or snorkeling. The hilltop location offers spectacular ocean views.
Evening: Dinner at Marine Room in La Jolla provides high-tide wave watching through floor-to-ceiling windows. This upscale restaurant literally sits on the beach. During high tide, waves crash against the windows. The California French cuisine matches the dramatic setting.
Day 10: Local Living and Farewell
Morning: Shop at one of San Diego’s farmers’ markets. Hillcrest on Sunday, Little Italy on Saturday, or Pacific Beach on Saturday. Browse local produce, artisan goods, and prepared foods while mingling with residents. This is San Diego at its most authentic.
Lunch: Have a final meal at your favorite spot discovered during the trip. Maybe it’s those fish tacos from day two or that coffee shop you kept returning to.
Afternoon: Spend your final afternoon doing whatever brought you the most joy during your stay. Return to that perfect beach, revisit a museum, or explore a neighborhood you didn’t fully experience. Use this time for souvenir shopping or simply sitting oceanside, reflecting on your trip.
Evening: Book a sunset sailing cruise from the Embarcadero for your final San Diego evening. Watching the sun set over the Pacific from a sailboat perfectly caps ten days in America’s Finest City. Have a casual final dinner at Coasterra on Harbor Island. The rooftop views encompass the entire bay and city skyline.
Best Homes to Stay for a 10-Day San Diego Immersion:
If You Have Extra Time
If you have extra time or are looking for other things to do in San Diego, consider exploring these places to make your trip even more memorable.
Consider Day Trips from San Diego
Tijuana, Mexico: Cross the border to experience authentic Mexican culture just 20 minutes south. Avenida Revolución offers shopping and street food, while the culinary scene has exploded in recent years. Walk across at San Ysidro and take a taxi to the tourist areas. Always carry your passport.
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Two hours east brings you to California’s largest state park, featuring wildflower blooms (February-April), dramatic desert landscapes, and metal sculptures scattered throughout. Perfect for hiking and stargazing.
Los Angeles: Drive two hours north to explore LA’s beaches, museums, and entertainment industry. Visit Santa Monica Pier, the Getty Center, or Hollywood for the day before returning to San Diego’s more relaxed pace.
Explore Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Spots
Potato Chip Rock: This Instagram-famous hiking destination on Mount Woodson requires effort but rewards with incredible photo opportunities. The thin rock slab juts out over the valley, creating optical illusions in photos.
Sunny Jim Sea Cave: La Jolla’s only land-accessible sea cave requires climbing 145 steps down, but the underground cave opening to the Pacific is magical. A small admission fee supports the historic cave access.
Spruce Street Suspension Bridge: This hidden suspension bridge in Bankers Hill sways 70 feet above the canyon below. It’s free, fun, and few tourists know about it.
Not sure where to stay? Check out our curated lists of top Airbnbs in San Diego for neighborhood-specific recommendations.
Getting Around San Diego
San Diego sprawls across 372 square miles, making transportation planning essential. The city’s layout follows the coast, with most attractions spread between downtown and North County beaches.
Driving: Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods. Traffic is mild compared to LA, though rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) can slow beach communities and interstate highways. Parking at beaches costs $10-25 per day in lots, while street parking requires careful meter reading. Downtown parking garages charge $15-30 daily.
Public Transportation: The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates buses and trolleys throughout San Diego. The Blue Line Trolley connects downtown to the Mexican border, while the Green Line reaches Mission Valley and SDSU. The UC San Diego Blue Line extended service to La Jolla in 2021. A day pass costs around $6 and covers unlimited rides. The system works well for downtown and some attractions, but struggles reaching beaches and North County.
Rideshare and Taxis: Uber and Lyft operate throughout San Diego with reliable service. Expect $15-30 for most cross-town trips, though surge pricing affects beach communities during summer weekends. Rides from downtown to La Jolla typically cost $20-35.
Biking: Beach communities like Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and Coronado are extremely bike-friendly with dedicated paths. Rent beach cruisers ($15-30 per day) or use bike-share programs like Grid Bikes. The Bayshore Bikeway offers 24 miles of car-free riding around San Diego Bay.
Walking: Downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and individual beach neighborhoods are walkable. However, distances between neighborhoods require transportation. San Diego’s pleasant weather makes walking enjoyable year-round.
Where to Stay in San Diego
Choosing the right home base transforms your San Diego experience. AvantStay offers premium vacation rentals throughout San Diego’s best neighborhoods, with the space and privacy of a home, but has hotel-level service and amenities.
Why Choose AvantStay
Unlike traditional vacation rentals, AvantStay homes are professionally managed with consistent quality standards. Every home features luxury, thoughtful design, high-end furnishings, and modern amenities that make your stay comfortable and memorable. Our curated collection ensures you’re staying in San Diego’s most desirable locations.
Our Concierge Services
AvantStay’s personal concierge service elevates your vacation beyond simple accommodation. We handle the details so you can focus on experiencing San Diego.
- Mid-Stay Cleaning: Keep your space fresh during your stay or if you plan to extend.
- Bring Your Pets: We offer pet-friendly homes where your furry family members are welcome.
- Private Chef: Elevate your dining experience with a personal chef perfect for special occasions.
- Stocked Fridge: Skip the grocery store hassle and let us handle the shopping for a fully stocked kitchen.
- Transportation: Need a ride to the airport, beaches, or attractions? We arrange reliable transportation throughout your stay.
- Find Local Child Care: We can help you find and hire local sitters with detailed profiles, references, and reviews for an adults-only evening.
- In-Home Massage: Indulge in ultimate relaxation without leaving your rental. Our professional massage therapists can bring spa-quality treatments to your door.
- Rent Baby Gear: Traveling with a baby doesn’t mean packing your entire nursery. Rent cribs, strollers, car seats, high chairs, toys, and more.
For other requests, rentals, or special occasion setups, our concierge team handles whatever makes your San Diego vacation exceptional.
Book Through the AvantStay App
Download the AvantStay app to browse properties, manage bookings, and access concierge services all in one place. The app provides 24/7 support, check-in details, local recommendations, and direct messaging with our team.
Download via: AvantStay iOS Application
Download via: AvantStay Android Application
Essential San Diego Travel Tips
Before you dive and surf under the sun, a little preparation goes a long way. These essential travel tips will help you feel at ease while having the best San Diego fun.
Getting To and From San Diego International Airport
San Diego International Airport (SAN) sits just three miles from downtown, making arrivals convenient. The airport offers one terminal with two sections connected by walkways.
Airport Transportation: Rideshare pickup zones are clearly marked outside baggage claim. Expect $10-20 to downtown, $25-40 to beach communities. The Flyer Route 992 bus connects the airport to downtown for just $2.50, running every 10-15 minutes. Rental cars are located off-site with free shuttles picking up at baggage claim every 5-10 minutes.
Car Rentals: Major companies operate from a consolidated rental center. Book ahead for better rates, but expect $40-80 daily depending on vehicle type and season. It’s important to check if your chosen home charges for parking before deciding on a rental.
San Diego Packing Essentials
Year-Round: Sunscreen (seriously, even overcast days cause sunburn), sunglasses, reusable water bottle, layers for temperature changes between beach and inland areas, comfortable walking shoes, swimsuit, and a light jacket for evenings.
Summer (June-August): San Diego rarely exceeds 80°F at the coast, but pack for warmer temperatures if venturing inland. Bring a light sweater as marine layer mornings can be cool, especially in May and June.
Winter (December-February): Temperatures range from 55-65°F. Pack long pants, a medium-weight jacket, and layers. Rain is possible but infrequent. A light rain jacket suffices. The ocean remains swimmable for brave souls, but wetsuits help.
Practical Preparation for San Diego Trips
Time Zone: San Diego operates on Pacific Time (PST/PDT), three hours behind the East Coast.
Beach Tips: Most beaches lack nearby facilities. Bring your own umbrella, chairs, and cooler if planning extended beach days. Many beaches ban alcohol, glass containers, and dogs during the summer. Arrive before 10 AM for free street parking.
Costs: San Diego isn’t cheap. Expect $15-25 for casual meals, $40-80 for nice dinners, $6-9 for craft beers, and $12-18 for cocktails. Museums cost $15-30 per adult, while the Zoo and Safari Park charge $60-70 for single-day tickets.
Marine Layer: “May Gray” and “June Gloom” bring morning fog to coastal areas. The marine layer usually burns off by noon, revealing sunny skies. However, don’t let overcast mornings discourage outdoor plans.
More Questions About Your San Diego Trip?
Planning a San Diego adventure involves countless details, and we’re here to help. If you need recommendations for pet-friendly properties, accessible homes, or properties with specific amenities, our team can answer questions and guide your booking process.
Contact us via:
- Email: experience@avantstay.com
- Phone: (833) 442-8268
Make San Diego Your Next Great Chapter
Forget the rush. San Diego moves to the rhythm of ocean waves and golden sunsets. This is where you can relax and be excited at the same time.
Whether you’re spending two days hitting highlights or ten days living like a local, this city welcomes you with sunshine, sea breezes, and genuine hospitality.
Ready to book your stay? Browse our top vacation rentals in San Diego. Perfect for families, couples, and groups.
