Welcome to San Diego — California’s coastal gem where sunny skies meet sandy beaches, and culture blends seamlessly with outdoor adventure. Whether you’re here for the laid-back vibes, iconic landmarks, or stunning ocean views, this 5-day San Diego itinerary will guide you through the best the city has to offer.
From world-class museums to hidden sea caves, whale watching to fish tacos, this itinerary has it all. Let’s dive in!
🕒 Best Time to Visit San Diego
San Diego is blessed with year-round mild weather, but the ideal times to visit are:
- Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) – Warm weather, fewer crowds, and better deals.
- Summer – Perfect for beach lovers and festivals, but expect higher prices and more tourists.
- Winter – Mild and quiet, great for whale watching and off-season travel.
🏨 Where to Stay in San Diego
Your accommodation can shape your entire experience. Here are the best areas to consider:
- Gaslamp Quarter – Great for nightlife, trendy bars, and walkable downtown fun.
- Mission Bay or Mission Beach – Ideal for families, beach lovers, and proximity to SeaWorld.
- La Jolla – For luxury stays with ocean views.
- Budget Travelers – Hostels and budget hotels range from $100 to $150 per night.
🚗 Getting Around San Diego
- Rent a car if you plan to explore beyond downtown — it’s the most flexible option.
- Public Transit (MTS Trolley & Bus) covers major attractions affordably.
- Cycling is a fun option in beach areas like Mission and Pacific Beach.
- Flying in? San Diego International Airport is just 10 minutes from downtown.
📅 Day 1: Downtown Adventures & Sunset Views
🍳 Breakfast at Richard Walker’s Pancake House
Start your day with a legendary apple pancake or buttermilk stack at Richard Walker’s, a local favorite in downtown San Diego. Expect to spend around $15–$20.
⚓ USS Midway Museum
Next, head to the USS Midway Museum, one of San Diego’s top attractions. For $39, walk the aircraft carrier’s deck, sit in fighter jet cockpits, and enjoy panoramic views of the bay. Don’t miss the free guided tours led by Navy veterans!
🛍 Seaport Village
A short walk away, Seaport Village offers charming shops, bayfront cafes, and live music. Take a spin on the historic 1895 carousel or relax by the water with a coffee in hand.
🐟 Lunch at The Fish Market
Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the harbor. Try the clam chowder in a sourdough bowl or their famous fish tacos ($20–$30).
⚓ Maritime Museum of San Diego
Explore historic vessels including the Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship. Tickets are around $28 and worth every penny for maritime buffs.
🌳 Waterfront Park
Cool off at Waterfront Park’s splash fountains, enjoy a midday picnic, or just relax in the sunshine.
🏛 Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Wrap up your day in Old Town, the “birthplace of California.” Enjoy adobe buildings, museums, authentic Mexican crafts, and mariachi music. For the brave, visit the Whaley House Museum, known for its haunted history.
🌅 Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Catch the golden hour at Sunset Cliffs ($20 vehicle fee). Explore tide pools, take photos from cliffside trails, and visit the historic lighthouse. An unforgettable end to your first day.
📅 Day 2: Culture & Cuisine in Balboa Park
🥞 Breakfast at Café 21 in Gaslamp Quarter
Fuel up with short rib benedict or lemon pancakes paired with a fresh juice ($15–$25).
🌿 Balboa Park
A cultural oasis, Balboa Park features stunning gardens, museums, and Spanish colonial architecture.
- San Diego Museum of Art – View European masterpieces ($20).
- Alcazar Garden – A serene break among vibrant flowers and tiled fountains.
- Natural History Museum – Fossils, dinosaurs, and immersive exhibits ($19).
- California Tower – Climb to the top for 360° views of San Diego.
🍽 Lunch at The Prado
This gorgeous restaurant inside Balboa Park serves award-winning fish tacos and beef sliders ($20–$35). Ask for outdoor seating on the terrace!
🎭 Old Globe Theatre & Spanish Village Art Center
Even if you skip a show, the Old Globe Theatre’s Shakespearean architecture is stunning. Then browse colorful studios at the Spanish Village, home to local artists.
🛍 Afternoon in Little Italy
Head to Little Italy for boutique shopping, creamy gelato, or the lively Mercato Farmers Market (Saturdays only). The air is full of espresso and excitement.
🍕 Dinner at Bencotto
Finish with a romantic dinner in Little Italy. Enjoy wood-fired pizza, fresh pasta, and a glass of wine ($30–$50). Don’t forget the tiramisu!
📅 Day 3: Ocean Breezes & Hidden Gems in La Jolla
🌯 Breakfast at The Mission Cafe (Mission Beach)
Savor a chilaquiles breakfast burrito ($12–$18) with ocean views on the patio.
🌊 La Jolla Swing
This secret swing offers cliffside views of the Pacific — a hidden photo op! Note: its exact location changes and may be on private property, so visit responsibly.
🌊 Sunny Jim Sea Cave
Access this unique cave via a tunnel from the Cave Store ($10). Descend 145 steps to see waves crash inside the cavern — an incredible experience for photos and ocean lovers.
🌮 Lunch at The Taco Stand (La Jolla)
Try their baja fish tacos or carne asada fries with a Mexican soda ($25–$35). Don’t skip the guacamole!
🐠 Birch Aquarium
Explore interactive exhibits, tide pools, and ocean-view decks at Birch Aquarium ($24). Catch a feeding demo while you’re there.
🇺🇸 Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
For panoramic views of San Diego and even glimpses of Mexico, visit this peaceful hilltop memorial (free admission).
🦭 La Jolla Cove at Sunset
Walk along the cliffs, watch sea lions sunbathe, or explore the La Jolla Underwater Park, a marine reserve teeming with wildlife.
🦞 Dinner at George’s at the Cove
Treat yourself to oysters, lobster mac & cheese, or grilled sea bass ($40–$60). Request courtyard seating for a magical evening.
📅 Day 4: Nature & Adventure
🥞 Breakfast at The Cottage (La Jolla)
Known for lemon ricotta pancakes and hearty burritos, this spot is a favorite among locals ($15–$20).
🌲 Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
Hike the Beach Trail or Guy Fleming Trail for epic views. Parking is $15 per vehicle. For thrill-seekers, try tandem paragliding off the cliffs (~$175).
🌮 Lunch at Puesto
Enjoy creative tacos and a house-made margarita ($25). Try the crispy fish or pork belly varieties.
🛶 Kayak the Sea Caves
Take a guided 2-hour kayak tour through La Jolla’s sea caves and marine reserve . You may spot sea lions, leopard sharks, and even dolphins.
🏄♀️ Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Rent a board for around $20/hour. Beginners can book a lesson and glide peacefully through La Jolla’s waters.
🌅 Sunset at Sunset Cliffs (Again!)
This spot is too beautiful to visit just once. Arrive an hour before sunset, find your perch, and take it all in.
🍍 Dinner at Bali Hai (Shelter Island)
End your day with Polynesian-inspired dishes like coconut shrimp or marinated sea bass ($30–$50). Sip a mai tai and enjoy views of the sparkling skyline.
