Explore the lush gardens and unique museums in one of the world's largest urban parks, Balboa Park. Take a stroll through the Botanical Building and check out the exhibits at the San Diego Museum of Art.
Head to the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean at La Jolla Cove. Watch the seals and sea lions sunbathe on the rocks, then grab lunch at one of the seafood restaurants in the area.
Spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun at Mission Bay, where there are multiple beaches, water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, and bike paths. Treat yourself to a massage at one of the spa resorts in the area.
Visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies from all over the world. Take a guided tour or explore on your own.
Relax on the white sand beach and enjoy the tranquil waters at Coronado Beach, named one of the top beaches in the United States by TripAdvisor. Take a walk or bike ride on the iconic Coronado Island Bridge at sunset.
The USS Midway was the longest-serving aircraft carrier in U.S. history, and now it's a museum. Explore the flight deck, below-deck living quarters, engine room, and more. Book in advance to avoid long lines.
Step back in time and experience San Diego's Mexican heritage at Old Town San Diego. Browse through the shops, sample authentic Mexican cuisine, and visit the museums and historic buildings.
San Diego has a variety of transportation options including public buses, trolleys, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft. Renting a car may be necessary to visit some of the farther locations on the itinerary. Expect to pay around $2.50 for a one-way bus or trolley ride and around $0.60 per minute for ride-sharing services. Parking at some locations like Balboa Park and Mission Bay may have fees.
If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to nearby Tijuana, Mexico or a visit to the Cabrillo National Monument with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. If you have less time, prioritize visiting Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo.
The main airport in San Diego is San Diego International Airport (SAN), located about three miles northwest of downtown. It is easily accessible via public transportation or ride-sharing services. Other nearby airports include John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in Los Angeles. Note that transportation times and costs may vary depending on the airport.