San Diego United States 3 Day Itinerary

San Diego 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Beaches and Downtown

Morning

  • Start at La Jolla Cove: A picturesque beach with clear waters, perfect for a morning swim or snorkel.
  • Breakfast: Grab a coffee and pastry at The Cottage La Jolla, a charming spot with outdoor seating.

Afternoon

  • USS Midway Museum: Explore the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy’s history, now converted into an interactive museum.
  • Lunch: Head to Little Italy for a delicious Italian meal at Buona Forchetta, known for its wood-fired pizzas.

Evening

  • Gaslamp Quarter: Stroll through this vibrant neighborhood, filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
  • Dinner: Enjoy fresh seafood at The Fish Market, located on the waterfront.
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Indigo San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, a stylish hotel in the heart of downtown.

Day 2: Theme Parks and More

Morning

  • San Diego Zoo: Spend the morning exploring the world-famous zoo, home to more than 3,500 animals from over 650 species.
  • Lunch: Grab a bite at Albert’s Restaurant, located within the zoo.

Afternoon

  • Balboa Park: Visit this expansive urban park, featuring multiple gardens, museums, and the famous California Tower.
  • Dinner: Savor Mexican cuisine at La Taqueria, a local favorite in North Park.

Evening

  • Old Town San Diego: Experience the city’s historic roots by strolling through this charming area, complete with restored buildings from the 19th century.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Hike through this stunning coastal reserve, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic and enjoy it at the reserve or head to The Grill at Torrey Pines, located near the golf course.

Afternoon

  • Coronado Island: Accessible by ferry or the iconic Coronado Bridge, this picturesque island offers a beautiful beach, a historic hotel, and a quaint small-town atmosphere.
  • Dinner: Return to the mainland and enjoy dinner at Anthony’s Fish Grotto, a waterfront restaurant serving seafood and Italian dishes.

Things to Know

  • San Diego has a mild climate year-round, but be prepared for cooler mornings and evenings near the ocean.
  • The city is relatively spread out, so plan your transportation in advance (see below).

Transportation

  • Rent a car: Ideal for exploring the city and its surroundings.
  • Public Transportation: Use the San Diego Trolley or buses to get around without a car.
  • Ride-hailing services: Uber and Lyft are widely available.

Tips

  • Be sure to book accommodations and popular restaurants in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
  • Take advantage of San Diego’s many free attractions, such as the beaches and Balboa Park.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.

Other Things of Interest

  • Legoland California: A theme park perfect for families with young children.
  • Belmont Park: A beachfront amusement park featuring a historic roller coaster and arcade games.
  • Sunset Cliffs Natural Park: A dramatic coastline offering stunning sunset views.