San Diego United States 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day San Diego Itinerary: Sun, Sand & City Fun

This itinerary balances the best of San Diego’s attractions, focusing on iconic landmarks, beaches, and cultural experiences.

Day 1: Balboa Park & Downtown Delights

  • Morning: Explore the diverse wonders of Balboa Park!
    • Activity: Visit the world-renowned San Diego Zoo (3-4 hours), wander through the beautiful gardens, check out the museums (like the Natural History Museum, the San Diego Museum of Art, or the Japanese Friendship Garden - there are over 17 to choose from!), and enjoy the scenic views.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at the Prado at Balboa Park. They have a lovely outdoor patio overlooking the gardens.
  • Afternoon:
    • Option 1 (Active): Rent a bike and explore the 1200 acres of Balboa Park’s trails, museums, and attractions.
    • Option 2 (Relaxed): Stroll through the charming streets of Little Italy for a unique dining experience.

Where to Stay: Consider staying in the heart of Balboa Park for easy access to the attractions and gardens. The historic Spreckels Organ Pavilion offers free concerts on Sundays, showcasing its impressive pipe organ.

  • Things to know:

    • Balboa Park:
      • Transportation: Walking is the best way to explore Balboa Park, but it’s large! The trolley system within the park is a good option for covering more ground quickly.
      • Consider: Exploring the museums (choose based on your interests!), visiting the Japanese Friendship Garden in the evenings for beautiful sunset views, and enjoying a picnic lunch at the Spanish Village Art Center are great ways to spend an afternoon/evening.

  • Where to eat:

    • The Prado at Balboa Park: Offers fine dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
    • Little Italy: This vibrant neighborhood offers numerous restaurants showcasing Italian cuisine.
      • Restaurants: Try Filippi’s Pizza Grotto for authentic Italian pizza or enjoy a gelato at Gelato Paradiso while exploring the charming streets and shops of Little Italy.

Day 2: Coastal Cruising & Ocean Views

  • Morning: Relax on the beach! Coronado Beach (with its stunning Coronado Island backdrop) is a great choice.
    • Activity: Soak up the sun, play in the waves, or visit the iconic Hotel del Coronado and explore its beautiful Victorian architecture and history.
  • Lunch: Grab some fish tacos from a local vendor like Mitch’s Seafood or enjoy a casual meal with amazing ocean views at The Marine Room (known for its “surf-and-turf” menu)

Day 3: Coastal Cruising & Ocean Views

  • Stay: Coronado Beach
    • Restaurants: Enjoy the scenic view of the ocean from the balcony of the Hotel del Coronado, or experience the laid-back atmosphere at a beachfront cafe.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the beach: Relax on the sand, take a dip in the Pacific Ocean, or rent a bike and explore the beach path.

  • Visit the historic Hotel Del: Take a tour, relax by the pool, or enjoy a meal and a view at one of the hotel’s restaurants.

  • Explore Coronado Island:

    • Coronado Beach: Stroll along this beautiful beach with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Coronado Bridge.
    • Coronado Ferry Landing: Take a ferry ride from San Diego to Coronado Island for a charming experience. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the shops and restaurants overlooking the bay.
    • Coronado Museum: Learn about the history of Coronado Island and its role in San Diego’s past.

Things to know:

  • Weather: The weather in San Diego is generally mild, but it’s best to check the forecast before you go.
  • Food: Enjoy fresh seafood at Mitch’s Seafood or a classic Italian meal at Filippi’s Pizza Grove.
  • Activities: Explore the beautiful beaches and parks of the city.

Day 2 & 3:

  • Day 2: Enjoy a relaxed, fun-filled day with a casual lunch at a local eatery on the beach.

  • Restaurants:

    • The Brigantine: Offers delicious seafood with stunning ocean views (Coronado Island location).
    • Hotel del Coronado’s restaurants: Indulge in the “Taste of the Beach” with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

  • Things to know:

  • Day 2: A casual walk around the beach and a stroll along the bay can be combined with enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many beachfront eateries.

  • Activities:

Possible Activities:

  • Relaxing on the beach:** Enjoy the beautiful beaches like Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove or Mission Beach.**

  • Explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods: From the historic Gaslamp Quarter to the charming seaside town of La Jolla, each neighborhood in San Diego has its own unique charm.

  • Day 3: Explore Balboa Park with a focus on the beautiful gardens and museums it houses.

Day 2:

  • Activity: Visit the USS Midway Museum. The retired aircraft carrier offers interactive exhibits and tours for all ages.

  • Option 1: Enjoy the view from the flight deck, or explore the museum’s collection of naval history.

  • Option 2: Take a boat tour on San Diego Bay.

  • Things to do:

  • Explore the ship’s interior: See the engine room, the bridge and the galley. Learn about the lives of sailors onboard an aircraft carrier.

  • Enjoy stunning views: The Midway’s flight deck provides panoramic views of San Diego Harbor, Coronado Island, and downtown San Diego.

Things to do:

  • Walk along the Embarcadero: This scenic waterfront promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

  • Visit the USS Nautilus Submarine: Explore this National Historic Landmark and witness the first nuclear-powered submarine built by the US Navy.

  • Explore the USS Midway Museum: Enjoy the interactive exhibits, explore the ship’s deck, and learn about its history.

  • Food:

  • The Embarcadero: This location offers a variety of food options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.

  • Enjoy fresh seafood by the bay: The Brigantine is a great option for a delicious meal with a view.

Things to know:

  • Day 3: You can visit the USS Midway Museum and explore the history of naval aviation while aboard the ship.

Food & Drink:

  • The Embarcadero: Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced food in Coronado’s charming Spanish Village Art Center.
  • Explore the variety: The Brigantine has a diverse menu with options for all dietary needs.

Other things to know:

  • Tijuana: If you are interested in visiting another country, Tijuana is just a short drive south of the border and offers a unique cultural experience.

  • Downtown San Diego: This vibrant area boasts many attractions and activities.

  • Coronado Island: The island has a lot to offer tourists.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the beach: Coronado Beach is a beautiful place for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the views of the Coronado Bridge and the Pacific Ocean.

Things to consider:

  • Transportation: Explore the city by bike, public transportation, or walking.
  • Accessibility: Enjoy a unique experience with the trolley running through the Coronado Shipyard, which is a great place to visit as well.
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings and follow all safety rules.