San Diego Adventure: October 22‑25, 2025

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town Exploration (Oct 22)

Morning: Depart Los Angeles via I‑5 South (≈120 mi, 2 hrs). Enjoy coastal views and quick stops at San Juan Capistrano Mission for a photo break.

Afternoon: Check‑in at Comfort Inn, 2380 Moore St. Wander through Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, sampling tacos at the nearby vegetarian‑friendly Veggie Grill (215 5th Ave).

Evening: Stroll along the La Jolla Cove promenade for a sunset view, then dine at Trattoria La Jolla (affordable veggie options).

Day 2: Border Field, USS Midway & Birch Aquarium (Oct 23)

Morning: Visit Border Field State Park for a quiet walk along the border fence; bring a hat, sunscreen, and water.

Afternoon: Explore the USS Midway Museum (naval aircraft carrier) – reserve tickets online. Afterwards, head to Birch Aquarium at Scripps for marine exhibits; wear comfortable shoes.

Evening: Return to La Jolla to catch the sunset from Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve cliffs, then enjoy a light dinner at the nearby veg‑friendly The Cottage.

Day 3: SeaWorld Adventure (Oct 24)

Morning: Spend the morning at SeaWorld San Diego—arrive early for the dolphin and orca shows; bring a reusable water bottle and light jacket for indoor exhibits.

Afternoon: Continue enjoying rides and the SeaWorld “Stimulators” interactive zone; grab a quick lunch at the park’s Veggie‑Delight Café.

Evening: Relax at Coronado Beach for a leisurely walk; park in the public lot (free) and watch the sunset over the Pacific.

Day 4: Safari Park & Departure (Oct 25)

Morning: Drive to San Diego Zoo Safari Park (≈15 mi, 30 min). Join the midday Safari tram tour; wear breathable clothing and bring a hat.

Afternoon: After the Safari experience, head back to the hotel to collect luggage and begin the drive back to Los Angeles via I‑5 (≈2 hrs). Optional stop at Carlsbad Village for a snack.

Evening: Arrive home in Los Angeles; reflect on the trip!

Time and Cost Estimates

• Drive Los Angeles → San Diego – 2 hrs, $15 tolls, fuel $12.
• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park – 2 hrs, free entry.
• La Jolla Cove (sunset) – 1.5 hrs, free.
• Border Field State Park – 1.5 hrs, free.
• USS Midway Museum – 3 hrs, $26 adult ticket.
• Birch Aquarium – 2 hrs, $25 adult ticket.
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve – 2 hrs, $15 parking.
• SeaWorld San Diego – 5 hrs, $79 adult ticket + $10 parking.
• Coronado Beach – 1.5 hrs, free.
• San Diego Zoo Safari Park – 4 hrs, $65 adult ticket + $12 parking.
• Drive San Diego → Los Angeles – 2 hrs, $15 tolls, fuel $12.
• Meals (veg‑friendly) – approx. $120 total.
• Accommodation (Comfort Inn, 3 nights) – $150 per night, total $450.
• Total Estimated Cost: $1,039

Tips

If you need more flexibility, consider skipping the Border Field stop and adding an extra half‑day at SeaWorld or the Safari Park. For a shorter trip, condense Day 2 by visiting either the USS Midway or Birch Aquarium (not both) and use the freed time for a relaxed beach afternoon. Always carry a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and a small daypack with a rain jacket—San Diego weather in late October is mild (65‑75°F) but can be breezy near the coast.