How many days do you need in san diego?

This itinerary covers 5 days in san diego, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for san diego?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to san diego. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

5-Day Family Adventure and Foodie Itinerary in San Diego

Viewed by 105 travelers

Day 1: Beach Fun

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Start your day with some delicious maple bacon doughnuts and a hearty breakfast at this vibrant eatery.

USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Explore the stunning coastline and observe the playful sea lions at La Jolla Cove.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Taco Stand

Indulge in authentic fish tacos and burritos at this popular local spot.

USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kayaking in La Jolla

Rent kayaks and paddle through the beautiful sea caves; keep an eye out for marine life.

USD60, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Mission Beach

Unwind and enjoy the sandy beach while the kids play in the waves.

Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pacific Beach Fish Shop

Feast on freshly grilled fish tacos and daily catch specials with an ocean view.

USD50, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Zoo Adventure

San Diego, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Enjoy a delicious breakfast of French toast and fresh berries at this cozy spot in La Jolla.

USD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore San Diego Zoo

Spend the day at one of the world's most famous zoos, home to over 3,500 animals.

USD60, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Albert's Restaurant in the Zoo

Relax with a meal at this beautiful outdoor restaurant within the zoo, offering various options.

USD40, 1 hour

3:30PM

Continue exploring the Zoo

Visit special exhibits and watch animal feeding while enjoying the expansive zoo grounds.

Included in zoo ticket, 2 hours

5:30PM

Visit Balboa Park

Stroll through Balboa Park's gardens and stunning architecture after your zoo visit.

Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Prado

Enjoy a delightful dinner in the heart of Balboa Park, with Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

USD70, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Cultural Experience

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Dig into creative pancake stacks and a variety of delectable breakfast options.

USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the USS Midway Museum

Explore a historic aircraft carrier and learn about naval aviation history.

USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tender Greens

Enjoy fresh farm-to-table salads, sandwiches, and bowls at this eco-friendly eatery.

USD35, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Maritime Museum of San Diego

Discover historic ships and maritime exhibits that the whole family will enjoy.

USD20, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Seaport Village

Wander through charming shops and enjoy some local artwork at this waterfront shopping area.

Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Savor an array of fresh seafood dishes while overlooking the gorgeous San Diego Bay.

USD55, 1.5 hours

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Day 4: Nature and Science

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 21

Relish farm-fresh dishes made from local ingredients in a charming café setting.

USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Spend the Day at Balboa Park

Visit the park's various museums, including the San Diego Natural History Museum and the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center.

USD45, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Panama 66

Enjoy delicious contemporary cuisine with outdoor viewing of the art in the park.

USD40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore more of Balboa Park

Take a ride on the park's historic carousel and visit the Botanical Building.

USD5, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Cabrillo National Monument

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and learn about the area's history.

USD20, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Old Town Mexican Café

Treat yourself to a classic Mexican dinner with handmade tortillas in Old Town.

USD40, 1.5 hours

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Day 5: Relaxation and Shopping

San Diego, USA

9:00AM

Brunch at The Mission

Savor a delightful blend of Latin-inspired dishes to start your last day.

USD30, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Relax at Coronado Beach

Spend a leisurely morning enjoying the sun and the calm waves at this stunning beach.

USD5, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Peohe's

Dine on delicious seafood with stunning views of the San Diego skyline.

USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shopping at Coronado Island

Explore unique shops and boutiques around Coronado while soaking in the island vibes.

Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Hotel del Coronado

Tour this iconic hotel and enjoy the beautiful architecture while relaxing by the beach.

Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Brigantine

Wrap up your San Diego adventure with a delicious seafood dinner at this beloved local eatery.

USD60, 1.5 hours

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team August 26, 2024 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

5-Day Family Adventure and Foodie Itinerary in San Diego

Day 1: Beach Fun

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

4:00PM

6:30PM

Day 2: Zoo Adventure

7:30AM

9:00AM

2:00PM

3:30PM

5:30PM

7:00PM

Day 3: Cultural Experience

8:00AM

9:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

Day 4: Nature and Science

8:00AM

9:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Relaxation and Shopping

9:00AM

10:30AM

1:30PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

6:30PM

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