How many days do you need in san diego?

This itinerary covers 7 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 7 days trip to san diego. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in San Diego, California

Day 1: Balboa Park Exploration

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast at The Cottage, famous for its French toast and pancakes.

USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Balboa Park Visit

Explore Balboa Park, home to numerous gardens and the San Diego Zoo, a perfect spot for family fun.

USD0, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Panama 66

Enjoy lunch at Panama 66, where you can grab tasty tacos and sandwiches with a beautiful courtyard view.

USD50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the San Diego Zoo

Spend the afternoon at the iconic San Diego Zoo, one of the best in the world with over 3,500 animals.

USD630, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

End your day with a fresh seafood dinner at The Fish Market near the waterfront.

USD120, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 2: Beach Day Fun

San Diego, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Great Maple with their signature maple bacon doughnuts.

USD40, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Spend a sunny morning at La Jolla Cove, a stunning beach ideal for picnics and watching sea lions.

USD0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cottage, La Jolla

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at The Cottage with outdoor seating just steps from the beach.

USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kayaking at La Jolla

Spend the afternoon kayaking in the gentle waters of La Jolla, exploring the sea caves and marine life.

USD120, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Ice Cream at Bobboi Natural Gelato

Cool off with some delicious gelato from Bobboi, renowned for its natural ingredients.

USD25, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Dine at George's at the Cove for stunning ocean views and a casual dining experience.

USD150, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 3: Fun at SeaWorld

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Feast on creative breakfast dishes like their signature pancake flights at Snooze.

USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit SeaWorld San Diego

Immerse yourself in aquatic adventures at SeaWorld, home to thrilling rides and captivating animal encounters.

USD480, 6 hours

3:30PM

Snack at SeaWorld

Grab some quick snacks within SeaWorld to keep the energy flowing through the day.

USD40, 1 hour

4:30PM

Continue Exploring SeaWorld

Enjoy more attractions and shows, including the iconic orca show before you head out.

USD0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Point Loma Seafoods

Conclude the day with a family-friendly dinner at Point Loma Seafoods with fresh fish and casual dining.

USD80, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 4: Adventure in Carlsbad

La Jolla, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Miss B's Coconut Club

Start your morning with a tropical breakfast at Miss B's, known for their delicious breakfast bowls and smoothies.

USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Carlsbad

Travel north to Carlsbad, a charming coastal town filled with fun activities for families.

USD0, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit LEGOLAND California

Enjoy a day filled with rides and attractions at LEGOLAND, perfect for kids and the young at heart.

USD430, 6 hours

4:00PM

Snack at the Park

Take a break at one of the snack booths in LEGOLAND for some tasty treats and refreshments.

USD35, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at the Carlsbad Village

Explore the quaint Carlsbad Village and enjoy dinner at the popular Filipino restaurant, Carlsbad Filipino Kitchen.

USD60, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in La Jolla

Day 5: Coronado Island Excursion

Coronado Island, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Coronado Coffee Company

Begin your day at the Coronado Coffee Company with freshly brewed coffee and scrumptious pastries.

USD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry Ride to Coronado Island

Enjoy a scenic ferry ride from San Diego to Coronado Island while taking in beautiful views of the bay.

USD30 (family pass), 1 hour

10:00AM

Coronado Beach Day

Spend a relaxing morning on Coronado beach with soft sand and perfect weather, ideal for families.

USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Peohe's

Savor a delightful lunch at Peohe's with a beautiful waterfront view and a varied menu.

USD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Coronado Island Tour

Take a family-friendly tour around Coronado Island, exploring its unique history and beautiful scenery.

USD100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Silver Strand

Wrap up your day with casual family dining at The Silver Strand, known for its burgers and milkshakes.

USD70, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Coronado Island

Day 6: San Diego Adventure Day

San Diego, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Mission

Start your day at The Mission with a Latin-inspired breakfast, famous for its chilaquiles.

USD40, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the USS Midway Museum

Explore the USS Midway Museum, where kids can climb aboard a real aircraft carrier and see impressive aircraft.

USD70, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Harbor House

Dine at Harbor House, located on the waterfront with stunning views and delightful seafood options.

USD90, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the San Diego Natural History Museum

Head to the San Diego Natural History Museum for interactive exhibits about dinosaurs and more.

USD60, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Gaslamp Quarter

Stroll through the historic Gaslamp Quarter, filled with shops, cafes, and unique architecture.

USD0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Born and Raised

End your day with a premium steakhouse experience at Born and Raised, known for its high-quality meats.

USD200, 2 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 7: Final Day Relaxation

San Diego, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Fig Tree Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Fig Tree Cafe, known for its fresh ingredients and great ambiance.

USD50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Stroll at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Take a beautiful stroll at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, soaking in magnificent views of the coastline.

USD0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Taco Stand

Savor authentic Mexican street food at The Taco Stand for a fun and casual family meal.

USD40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Explore Old Town San Diego, a vibrant area showcasing the history and culture of the early settlers.

USD0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Collect Souvenirs

Take some time to collect souvenirs from local shops in Old Town for a lasting memory of your trip.

USD50, 1 hour

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Café 21

conclude your San Diego adventure with a hearty farewell dinner at Café 21, known for its farm-to-table dishes.

USD100, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Diego

Step 1 Outline Preview:

7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in San Diego, California

Day 1: Balboa Park Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

2:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Beach Day Fun

8:30AM

10:00AM

12:30PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Fun at SeaWorld

8:00AM

9:30AM

3:30PM

4:30PM

6:30PM

Day 4: Adventure in Carlsbad

8:00AM

9:30AM

10:00AM

4:00PM

5:00PM

Day 5: Coronado Island Excursion

8:00AM

9:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

2:30PM

5:00PM

Day 6: San Diego Adventure Day

8:30AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

3:30PM

5:00PM

Day 7: Final Day Relaxation

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

4:00PM

5:00PM

More About san diego

Plan Your san diego Trip