San Diego Travel Guide
You’ll love San Diego if:
You are a fan of beautiful beach sunsets
You love sunny weather and beach volleyball
You’re attracted to eclectic neighborhoods and laid back vibes
You want to explore the outdoors and still be near major attractions
You like having a variety of cuisine and nightlife offerings
The San Diego Vibe
Welcome to San Diego, a super cool city in California where the sun always shines, and there's lots of fun stuff to do! Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, San Diego promises an experience filled with endless possibilities. Expect a chilled, laid-back vibe with lots of people-watching opportunities on the boardwalk and eclectic local artists and shops. San Diego is best known for its perfectly sunny climate, prolific beaches, and awesome attractions for everyone. There are more than 90 miles of shoreline including vast bays, crashing lagoons and the Pacific Ocean.
Imagine a place where you can go to the beach and ride the waves, visit a zoo with animals from all over the world, and eat yummy tacos and seafood whenever you want. That's San Diego!
Bonus: San Diego is home to an International Airport and is a great basecamp between domestic and international travel trips.
If you are ready to enjoy the city like a local and have the absolute best experience possible, keep scrolling for our city guide to San Diego!
Best Time to Visit San Diego
The best time to visit San Diego is when the weather is sunny and warm, which is most of the year! Thanks to the climate in Southern California, you can enjoy outdoor activities like going to the beach, hiking, or visiting attractions like the San Diego Zoo. Spring and fall are especially nice because it's not too hot, expensive, or crowded. But honestly, anytime is a good time to visit San Diego.
What to do
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What to do 🥳
Balboa Park: Explore a world of culture, nature, and fun! Balboa Park is home to beautiful gardens, museums, and the famous San Diego Zoo. It's the perfect place for a day of adventure.
Gaslamp Quarter: Step into the heart of the nightlife and entertainment scene in San Diego! The Gaslamp Quarter is packed with restaurants, bars, and street performers for an exciting night out on the town. Be sure to hit up Taco Tuesdays at the American Junkie with the ITH Downtown Adventure Hostel team!
USS Midway Museum: Climb aboard a piece of living history at the USS Midway Museum! This massive aircraft carrier-turned-museum offers a glimpse into naval aviation and maritime history. You can explore the flight deck, check out the aircraft, and take a guided tour led by former sailors.
Old Town San Diego: Step back in time and experience the birthplace of California! Old Town San Diego is home to historic buildings, shops, and Mexican cuisine. Don't forget to try the fresh-made tortillas.
Seaport Village: Discover the waterfront of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Seaport Village! It’s one of the best places in San Diego to get fresh seafood guaranteed to knock your socks off.
What to Eat
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What to Eat 😋
Lucky’s Breakfast: Good food, great price and you’ll feel like one of the fam at this local diner serving up traditional American breakfasts with diner style coffee and booths you can squeeze a group of friends into while pouring syrup over waffles and last nights shenanigans.
Kono’s Cafe: Within walking distance of the beach, this cafe serves quick bites for breakfast including burritos and pancakes and coffee. What else could you want. Oh, yes, there is also ocean-view seating available.
The Baked Bear: With a sweet eclectic vibe that matches the city, this ice cream spot offers bold colors and sprinkles to use when creating your own ice cream sandwich. Be sure to try one of their specialty cookies, The Cooke Monster.
The Taco Stand: Near La Jolla Cove, this taco spot serves up delicious homemade tortillas, a crafted salsa bar and a top notch selection of tacos, burritos and nachos. Don’t miss out on their fresh churros.
Hodad’s and Hodad’s Downtown: In need of a quirky bar with good burgers, shakes and “fringes”? This is the place. With an emphasis on freshly made, and conveniently located near the best of San Diego, don’t miss out on this local legendary spot.
What to See
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What to See 😎
La Jolla Cove: Prepare to be dazzled by the beauty of La Jolla Cove! This spot is famous for its clear waters, cliffs, and the fun and playful seals and sea lions. Whether you're snorkeling, sunbathing, or taking in the view, it's a must-visit destination.
Ocean Beach: Embrace the laid-back vibes of Southern California at Ocean Beach! This funky beach town is known for its bohemian atmosphere, eclectic shops, and stunning sunsets. Check out the night market every Wednesday!
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve: Experience the beauty of nature at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! This preserve offers miles of hiking trails, ocean views, and rare Torrey pine trees. Whether you're an avid hiker or looking for a peaceful escape, you'll find it here.
Sunset Cliffs: Prepare to be amazed by the beauty of Sunset Cliffs! This stretch of coastline is famous for its dramatic cliffs, tide pools, and sunsets, obviously. It's the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the end of the day with a view.
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