Start your San Diego vacation by visiting La Jolla Cove, a beautiful beach surrounded by cliffs with crystal clear water. You can relax on the beach and watch the ocean waves, or rent a kayak to explore the caves and wildlife in the area. Take a walk along the coast to enjoy the ocean breeze and sunshine. End your day by watching a beautiful sunset over the ocean.
Take a trip to Coronado Beach, famous for its sparkling sand, spectacular sunsets, and proximity to the historic Hotel del Coronado. Explore the beach with a long walk or rent bikes to cover more distance. If you’re feeling adventurous, try surfing or paddleboarding. In the evening, watch the sunset while enjoying a picnic on the beach.
Visit Balboa Park, a cultural urban oasis with 16 museums, breathtaking gardens, a zoo, and numerous walking trails. Take a stroll in the botanical garden to indulge in the beauty of exotic plants, or take a museum tour to escape San Diego’s heat. Relax and have a picnic or grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants available inside the park.
End your vacation in San Diego by taking a walk through Gaslamp Quarter, a historic district in downtown San Diego. The district is filled with unique and chic boutiques, nightclubs, and restaurants. Take pictures of the area's distinguished Victorian architecture or learn about San Diego’s history by visiting the San Diego Chinese Museum, located in the neighborhood.
If you have more time, explore places like Old Town San Diego, USS Midway Museum, or Cabrillo National Monument. Those with less time could shorten their beach visits during day 1 and 2. Consider adding a day trip to Tijuana, Mexico if you are looking for an adventurous experience. If need be, adjust your itinerary based on the availability of each location's opening and closing hours to avoid missing any activities.