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

Day 1: Beach Day Fun

San Diego, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your day with a delicious family breakfast at The Cottage, known for its fresh and seasonal menu, with options like fluffy pancakes and hearty omelets that will fuel your beach adventure.
Drive 15 minutes to La Jolla Cove.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

La Jolla Cove

Spend the morning at La Jolla Cove, enjoying the beautiful ocean views, watching sea lions, and engaging in water activities like snorkeling or kayaking.
Walk along the cove to find a relaxing spot to set up your beach gear.
FREE, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at George's at the Cove

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with a view at George's at the Cove, featuring a choice of burgers, fish tacos, and salads, perfect for recharging.
1-minute drive back to George's.
USD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Birch Aquarium

Immerse yourselves in the wonders of the ocean at the Birch Aquarium, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and see sharks and colorful reef fish.
Drive 5 minutes from George's to Birch Aquarium.
USD60, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Hotel for Relaxation

Head back to your hotel to unwind, letting the kids relax by the pool or watch a family movie.
Drive back to your hotel.
FREE, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Enjoy a casual seafood dinner at The Fish Market, where you can enjoy the freshest catch while overlooking the San Diego Bay.
Drive 15 minutes to The Fish Market.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Balboa Park

San Diego, CA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Start the day at Great Maple, known for its modern takes on classic comfort food, especially their maple bacon doughnuts and delicious eggs benedict.
Drive 10 minutes to Great Maple.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Balboa Park

Spend the morning exploring Balboa Park, where families can stroll through gardens, visit museums, or enjoy art in the open air.
Walk through the park and choose from the numerous attractions.
FREE (entry to most gardens and parks), 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Panama 66

Enjoy lunch at Panama 66, an outdoor eatery featuring artful dishes and local craft beers, perfect for families looking to relax amid the park scenery.
Walk to Panama 66 from the park.
USD70, 1 hour

2:00PM

San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon at the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, home to thousands of animals and beautiful habitats, where your kids can learn and explore.
Take a shuttle or drive 5 minutes to the zoo.
USD200, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Hotel

After a fun-filled day, head back for some relaxation before dinner.
Drive back to the hotel.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Crack Shack

Indulge in a delicious dinner at The Crack Shack, featuring fried chicken and gourmet sandwiches, where a fun atmosphere awaits the whole family.
Drive 10 minutes to The Crack Shack.
USD65, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Beach and Adventure

San Diego, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mission

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Mission, famous for its Latin-inspired dishes and delicious chilaquiles served with fresh fruit.
Drive 15 minutes to The Mission.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mission Beach

Enjoy some sun and fun at Mission Beach, where families can swim, build sandcastles, and rent bikes or surreys for a fun ride along the boardwalk.
Walk to the beach area from The Mission.
FREE, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Draft South Mission

Grab a family-friendly lunch at Draft South Mission, where everyone can find something to love, from gourmet tacos to fresh salads.
Walk or bike to Draft South Mission.
USD65, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kayaking Adventure in La Jolla

Spend the afternoon on a guided kayaking tour in La Jolla, exploring the beautiful coastline and sea caves, great for spotting marine life!
Drive 15 minutes to La Jolla Shores for kayaking.
USD150, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Ice Cream Treat at Bobboi Natural Gelato

Cool off with some artisanal gelato from Bobboi, a perfect ending for an active family day.
Walk to Bobboi from the beach.
USD20, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Return to Hotel for Packing

Return to your hotel to relax and pack up before departure, reminiscing about the wonderful adventures of the past three days.
Drive back to the hotel.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Bencotto Italian Kitchen

Wrap up your trip with a delicious Italian dinner at Bencotto, known for its handmade pasta that will delight the entire family.
Drive 15 minutes to Bencotto.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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