San Diego United States 2 Day Itinerary

San Diego 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Beaches, Parks, and a Famous Zoo

Morning

  • Start the day at La Jolla Cove, a picturesque beach with clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.
  • Grab breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla, a cozy restaurant serving delicious pancakes and omelets.

Afternoon

  • Visit Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural and recreational complex featuring multiple gardens, museums, and the famous San Diego Zoo. Spend a few hours exploring the park’s many attractions.
  • Lunch at Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop, a colorful eatery serving creative tacos and craft beer.

Evening

  • Watch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a stunning coastline with dramatic cliff formations and breathtaking views.
  • Dine at Anthony’s Fish Grotto, a waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and offering beautiful harbor views.

Where to Stay

Consider staying in the Gaslamp Quarter or nearby Little Italy, both vibrant neighborhoods with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance. Some popular hotels include:

  • Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter
  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Diego Downtown

Day 2: USS Midway, Harbor Views, and a Beachside Neighborhood

Morning

  • Explore the USS Midway Museum, a naval aircraft carrier turned museum with interactive exhibits and restored aircraft on display.
  • Walk along the San Diego Bayfront, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling harbor.

Afternoon

  • Visit Coronado Island, accessible by ferry or the iconic Coronado Bridge. Explore the island’s picturesque small-town charm, beautiful beaches, and historic Hotel del Coronado.
  • Lunch at Coronado Brewing Co., a beachside brewery serving tasty pub fare and craft beer.

Evening

  • End the day in Pacific Beach, a lively neighborhood with plenty of restaurants, bars, and surf shops. Catch the sunset at Crystal Pier or enjoy dinner at one of the many eateries.
  • Dine at Wahoo’s Fish Taco, a beachy spot serving fresh seafood and Mexican-inspired dishes.

Things to Know

  • San Diego has a mild climate year-round, but be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings, especially near the coast.
  • The city is very pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. However, you may want to consider renting a car or using public transportation for longer trips.
  • Be sure to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated during your trip.

Transportation

  • San Diego International Airport (SAN) is conveniently located just a few miles from downtown.
  • Use the San Diego Trolley, a light rail system connecting many popular attractions.
  • Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Consider purchasing a Go San Diego Card, which grants admission to many attractions at a discounted rate.
  • Take a guided kayak tour or rent a paddleboard to explore San Diego’s coastal waters.
  • If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to catch a Padres game at Petco Park, a state-of-the-art baseball stadium with stunning views of the city skyline.

Enjoy your trip to San Diego!