4-Day Family Friendly Relaxation Itinerary in San Diego, California

Day 1: Beach Day

San Diego, California

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Cottage, known for its fresh ingredients and cozy atmosphere.
Located in La Jolla, about 15 minutes drive from downtown San Diego.
USD 70, 1 hour

9:30 AM

La Jolla Shores Beach

Enjoy a leisurely morning at La Jolla Shores where you can swim, sunbathe, or building sandcastles.
It’s a short 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Duke's La Jolla

Have a family-friendly lunch at Duke's with their ocean views and Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
Just 5-minute drive back to the restaurant.
USD 90, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Sea Lion Caves

Take a stroll to nearby La Jolla Cove to see the sea lions basking in the sun; it’s a magical spot for kids.
A short 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Kayaking Tour

Experience an unforgettable family kayaking tour around the La Jolla caves, perfect for adventurers!
Tour operator is located right at La Jolla Shores.
USD 150, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood at The Fish Market situated by the bay; their grilled fish tacos are a must-try!
20-minute drive from the kayaking location.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Exploring Balboa Park

San Diego, California

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Indulge in elevated comfort food at Great Maple, specializing in decadent pancakes.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
USD 80, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Balboa Park Exploration

Wander through the beautiful gardens and museums of Balboa Park; the Science Center is great for kids!
10-minute drive from the breakfast spot.
USD 50 (Museum tickets), 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Prado

Relax with lunch at The Prado inside Balboa Park, offering a seasonal menu and patio seating.
Within Balboa Park, just a short walk.
USD 100, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to an array of animal exhibits perfect for families.
Located directly within Balboa Park.
USD 200, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Old Town Mexican Cafe

Choose from a menu filled with authentic Mexican dishes at the vibrant Old Town Mexican Cafe.
10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 85, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Coastal Adventure

La Jolla, California

8:00 AM

Breakfast at John’s Place

Delight in a warm breakfast at John’s Place, famous for its home-style cooking and family atmosphere.
15-minute drive from downtown San Diego.
USD 75, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Take a scenic hike at Torrey Pines, with stunning ocean views and trails that are family-friendly.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 15 (parking fee), 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Piatti

Enjoy a delicious Italian lunch at Piatti, featuring fresh pasta and a warm environment.
15-minute drive from the reserve.
USD 90, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Snorkeling in La Jolla

Spend the afternoon snorkeling amongst colorful marine life at La Jolla Cove, a fun-filled activity for all ages.
20-minute drive back to La Jolla.
USD 100, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Stroll through La Jolla Village

Enjoy a peaceful family stroll through La Jolla Village, exploring shops and galleries.
Walking distance from the snorkeling area.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at NINE-TEN

Savor a high-end dining experience at NINE-TEN, acclaimed for its fresh, local ingredients.
A 5-minute drive from the village.
USD 200, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Leisure and Relaxation

San Diego, California

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Café 21

Indulge in a farm-to-table breakfast at Café 21, known for its organic dishes and local coffee.
20-minute drive from your hotel in La Jolla.
USD 70, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit Coronado Island

Take a short ferry ride to Coronado Island for a relaxing beach day and beautiful views of the San Diego skyline.
Ferry terminal is a 10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 30 (round trip for the family), 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Hotel Del Coronado

Dine at the beachfront restaurant at the historic Hotel Del Coronado, enjoying fresh seafood options.
Located right on Coronado Island.
USD 120, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Relax at Coronado Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sands of Coronado Beach, building sandcastles or reading a book.
Just a short stroll from the hotel.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Coronado Brewing Company

Wrap up your San Diego vacation with a casual dinner at The Coronado Brewing Company with a great selection of beers and pub fare.
10-minute drive from the beach.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability