Ultimate 5-Day San Diego Itinerary: Beaches, Brews, and Balboa Park

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day

San Diego, USA on March 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your day at The Cottage in La Jolla, known for its picturesque setting and delicious breakfast options like French toast and cinnamon rolls. It's a popular spot, so arriving early is advisable.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Explore La Jolla Cove, where you can see sea lions basking on the shores and enjoy stunning coastal views. It's a great place for walking and taking photos.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at George's at the Cove

Dine at George's at the Cove for contemporary California cuisine with ocean views. The rooftop terrace is perfect for a relaxing lunch.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Kayaking in La Jolla

Take a guided kayaking tour to explore the sea caves and spot marine life like dolphins and seals. It’s an adventurous way to see La Jolla’s beauty up close.
USD65, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Pacific Beach

Unwind at Pacific Beach. It’s a lively beach where you can soak up the sun or take a stroll along the boardwalk.
FREE, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Kono's Cafe

Enjoy a casual dinner at Kono's Cafe, famous for its breakfast burritos and fish tacos. It's a laid-back place that's perfect after a day at the beach.
USD15, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Exploration

San Diego, USA on March 27, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fig Tree Café

Indulge in breakfast at Fig Tree Café, which offers creative dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Try their signature stuffed French toast.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Balboa Park Visit

Spend the day at Balboa Park, home to museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. Don’t miss the stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture.
FREE for park entry; museums vary, 4-6 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

Savor lunch at The Prado, which features a menu inspired by California cuisine. The beautiful outdoor seating is a highlight.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit San Diego Museum of Art

Explore impressive collections from renowned artists at the San Diego Museum of Art. The museum's setting in Balboa Park is breathtaking.
USD20, 2 hours

5:30PM

Explore the Botanical Building

Check out the Botanical Building, showcasing beautiful gardens and ponds. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy nature.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Born & Raised

For dinner, treat yourself to a sophisticated steak at Born & Raised, a modern steakhouse with a classy atmosphere.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure and Wildlife

San Diego, USA on March 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 21

Start your day with farm-to-table breakfast at Café 21. Their stuffed avocado or fluffy pancakes are a must-try.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

San Diego Zoo

Visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, home to thousands of animals and exotic plants. Plan to spend several hours exploring.
USD65, 5-6 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Albert's Restaurant

Nestled in the zoo, Albert's offers delicious dining amidst a lovely lush environment with great views.
USD35, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Ride the Skyfari

Experience a bird's-eye view of the zoo on the Skyfari aerial tram. It’s a fun way to relax and see a different perspective.
USD12, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

End your day with fresh seafood at The Fish Market. Choose from a variety of local catches while enjoying views of the harbor.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Water Adventures

San Diego, USA on March 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Fuel up for the day at Breakfast Republic, which offers a creative menu with dishes like their famous lemon ricotta pancakes.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an exciting whale watching tour. San Diego’s coast is a prime location for spotting migrating whales during this season.
USD60, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Point Loma Seafoods

After your tour, enjoy fresh fish and seafood sandwiches at Point Loma Seafoods, a casual dining spot with local favorites.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Coronado Island

Take a ferry to Coronado Island and stroll along the iconic beaches and picturesque streets. Relax and soak in the atmosphere.
USD7 (ferry), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Miguel's Cocina

Enjoy flavorful Mexican cuisine at Miguel’s Cocina, renowned for its fish tacos and vibrant atmosphere.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relax and Departure

San Diego, USA on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mission

Wrap up your trip with a nutritious breakfast at The Mission, known for its healthy options and energizing dishes like their soy chorizo.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Chill at Mission Bay Park

Spend your morning relaxing at Mission Bay Park, which offers a beautiful area for picnics or simply soaking up the sun.
FREE, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pacific Beach AleHouse

Enjoy a casual lunch at Pacific Beach AleHouse, offering great pub food and ocean views. A lovely way to enjoy your last meal in San Diego.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Cabrillo National Monument

Explore Cabrillo National Monument for stunning views of the coastline and the city while learning about the area's history.
USD10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Departure

Head back to your accommodations to prepare for departure, taking with you unforgettable memories of San Diego.
FREE, N/A
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