Family-Friendly Summer Vacation to San Diego, California: A Cool Coastal Retreat for Kids

Day 1: Arrival and Waterfront Fun

San Diego, USA on July 1, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Mission Café

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at The Mission Café, known for its kid-friendly menu and fresh ingredients.
USD15, 1h

10:30am

Visit USS Midway Museum

Explore this aircraft carrier museum with interactive exhibits suitable for kids, offering a fascinating peek into naval history.
USD26, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Seaport Village

Enjoy a casual lunch at Seaport Village, where options like The Harbor House offer seafood and kid-friendly meals overlooking the bay.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Waterfront Park

Let your 3-year-old enjoy the splash pads, playgrounds, and green spaces in Waterfront Park, perfect for a cool summer afternoon.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop

Treat the family to some delicious ice cream and desserts after dinner at this popular spot in the Gaslamp Quarter.
USD10, 1h
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Day 2: SeaWorld Adventure

San Diego, USA on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Broken Yolk Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with many options suitable for young children at this popular local café.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit SeaWorld San Diego

Spend the day at SeaWorld, enjoying animal shows, aquariums, and kid-friendly rides perfect for your 3-year-old.
USD95, 6h

4:00pm

Early Dinner at Shipwreck Cafe

Unwind with a family-friendly casual dinner just outside SeaWorld, offering diverse menus that cater to children.
USD20, 1h
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Day 3: La Jolla Day Trip

La Jolla, San Diego, USA on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brockton Villa

Enjoy breakfast with ocean views and kid-friendly menu options at this La Jolla favorite.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit La Jolla Cove and Children's Pool

Spend a relaxing morning watching seals and sea lions at the cove, and enjoy safe spots for toddlers to play.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at El Pescador Fish Market

Savor fresh seafood with casual dining options that are kid-friendly along the scenic coastline.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Discover marine life exhibits in a highly interactive environment great for young children to explore safely.
USD19, 2h

5:00pm

Return to San Diego and Dinner at Puesto

Enjoy a festive dinner offering delicious tacos and kid-approved options near downtown San Diego.
USD25, 1h
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Day 4: Balboa Park Exploration

San Diego, USA on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Prado

Start your day in Balboa Park with flavorful breakfast options in a beautiful setting.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

San Diego Model Railroad Museum

Delight your toddler with detailed model trains and interactive exhibits perfect for young kids.
USD12, 1.5h

11:00am

San Diego Zoo

Visit one of the world’s best zoos with family-friendly paths, animals to see and toddler-specific attractions.
USD65, 4h

3:30pm

Relax at Balboa Park's Pepper Grove Playground

Let your child burn off energy at this spacious, shaded playground within the park.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Panama 66

Enjoy casual American cuisine accompanied by views of the sculpture garden in the park.
USD25, 1h
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Day 5: Relaxed Beach Day

San Diego, USA on July 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Richard Walker's Pancake House

Enjoy classic pancakes and breakfast favorites well-loved by families visiting San Diego.
USD20, 1h

10:30am

Coronado Beach Visit

Spend a calm day on the soft sandy beach with gentle surf, ideal for small children to play safely.
Free, 4h

3:00pm

Ice Cream at MooTime Creamery

Cool down with creative ice cream flavors loved by kids and adults alike.
USD8, 30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Peohe's

Dine on fresh seafood and kid-friendly dishes with views of San Diego Bay.
USD30, 1h
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Day 6: Children’s Museum and Shopping

San Diego, USA on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café 222

Enjoy a cozy breakfast known for peanut butter and banana stuffed French toast, perfect for kids.
USD15, 1h

10:00am

The New Children's Museum

Engage your toddler in interactive and creative exhibits designed to stimulate young minds.
USD16, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Liberty Public Market

Sample a variety of casual food stalls offering options for all preferences including kid-friendly meals.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Liberty Station Inspired Shopping & Play Areas

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon browsing shops and letting your child explore the designated play areas.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Stone Brewery

Dine at this brewery with relaxed atmosphere and some kid food options before the day ends.
USD25, 1h
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Day 7: Outdoor Nature and Departure Prep

San Diego, USA on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Cottage

Enjoy an inviting breakfast at this well-known spot with delicious options for little kids.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve

Take a gentle walk at this coastal reserve with stunning views and easy trails for families with toddlers.
USD15 parking, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Jake's Del Mar

Enjoy beachfront dining with a menu catering well to families and children.
USD25, 1h

2:30pm

Return to hotel and relax

Take the afternoon to rest and prepare for departure the next day.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at hotel or nearby restaurant

Opt for a relaxed dinner close to your accommodation to end your vacation on a comfortable note.
USD20, 1h
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Day 8: Departure Day

San Diego, USA on July 8, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a convenient and nourishing breakfast at your hotel before check-out.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Check out and travel to airport

Prepare for departure by checking out and heading to San Diego International Airport.
Transportation costs, Variable
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