San Diego United States 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day San Diego Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on popular San Diego attractions and is designed for a traveler who wants a mix of beach fun, city exploration, and cultural experiences. It can be easily adapted based on your interests!

Day 1: Arrival & Balboa Park Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at San Diego International Airport (SAN) and check into your hotel. Consider staying in the heart of the action near the Gaslamp Quarter or explore a charming neighborhood like Coronado for a classic San Diego experience.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the cultural hub of Balboa Park. Visit:

    • Balboa Park: Explore museums, gardens, the zoo, and Balboa Park itself!

  • Things to do:

    • Stroll through the vibrant gardens (like the Japanese Friendship Garden or the Botanical Building & Rose Garden).
    • Immerse yourself in history at the San Diego Museum of Man or the Museum of Photographic Arts.
    • Enjoy a performance at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion - they often have free concerts.

  • Evening: Dine in the historic district of Balboa Park, surrounded by beautiful architecture and a lively atmosphere.

    • The Prado at Balboa Park: Indulge in fine dining with stunning views in a historic setting.

  • Things to know:

    • Purchase tickets for attractions online in advance to save time and money.

Day 2: Beach Day & Sunset Dining

  • Morning: Enjoy a classic San Diego beach day! Head to Coronado Beach, known for its soft sand, gentle waves, and iconic Hotel del Coronado.

    • Things to know:
      • Coronado Beach is known for its beautiful beaches and calm waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or even building sandcastles.
      • Parking can be limited on Coronado Beach, so consider using public transportation (the bus or ferry) or parking in a nearby lot and walking.

  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, build sandcastles, play volleyball, or simply soak up the sun.

    • Things to do:
      • Build a sandcastle near the water’s edge.
      • Play beach volleyball with locals or other tourists.
      • Take a surfing lesson - La Jolla Shores is known for its beginner-friendly waves and offers rentals and lessons.

  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

    • Recommended restaurants: Mitch’s Seafood in Point Loma, The Fish Market in San Diego, Blue Point Coastal Cuisine in San Diego.

Day 3: Coastal Exploration & La Jolla Dining

  • Morning: Explore the beautiful beaches of La Jolla Cove or La Jolla Shores.

    • Things to do:
      • Rent a kayak and paddle around the stunning La Jolla coastline.
      • Relax on the sandy beach, enjoy the views at the cliffs.

  • Afternoon: Take a relaxing walk along the La Jolla coast, enjoying the beautiful ocean views and the fresh sea air.

    • Recommended things: Grab lunch at a cafe overlooking the Pacific Ocean, visit the Birch Aquarium to see fascinating marine life, or explore the tide pools at low tide for a glimpse of marine creatures in their natural habitat.

  • Evening: Head to La Jolla for a delicious dinner.

Day 4: Day Trip to La Jolla

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the charming town of La Jolla.

    • Recommended things: Stroll along Girard Avenue, browse the boutiques and art galleries, or visit the nearby Torrey Pines State Reserve for breathtaking ocean views from atop sandstone cliffs.

  • Afternoon: Explore the tide pools at low tide (check the tide charts!).

    • Things to do: Visit the seals and sea lions at Children’s Cove, wander through the vibrant La Jolla Cove Park, or enjoy a whale watching tour if you’re in season.

Day 5: Ocean Fun & Scenic Views

  • Morning: Enjoy a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to La Jolla.

    • Recommended things: Visit the La Jolla Shores and explore the beach, take a surfing lesson or rent a surfboard and go for a surf session.

  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach, explore the shops and restaurants in the village, or enjoy a picnic with a stunning ocean view.

    • Things to do:
      • Learn about the local marine life: Visit the tide pools at La Jolla Cove, learn about the history of the area at the La Jolla Historical Society, or take a boat tour for whale watching (depending on the season) in La Jolla.

Day 6: Downtown Adventures & Local Cuisine

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the Gaslamp Quarter: Enjoy its Victorian architecture and vibrant nightlife.
    • Visit the Balboa Park Museums: Choose from a variety of museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Natural History Museum, and the USS Midway Museum.

  • Enjoy a meal with a view:

    • For lunch: Explore the many restaurants in La Jolla that offer breathtaking ocean views.
    • For dinner: Check out one of the rooftop restaurants in downtown San Diego for stunning city views.

Day 7: Coastal Hiking & Local Flavor

  • Morning: Hike along the trails of Torrey Pines State Reserve and enjoy the views from the cliffs above the ocean.
    • Recommended restaurants: Check out a restaurant with a view of the Pacific Ocean.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy breakfast at one of the cafes in La Jolla: Many offer delicious pastries, coffee, and fresh fruit.

  • Explore the coast: Hike along the cliffs and enjoy the views from the top.

  • La Jolla Shores: Enjoy a beach day!

    • Recommended activities: Hiking, picnicking, swimming, surfing, kayaking.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Transportation: You can drive to La Jolla, but parking is limited and often expensive. Consider taking public transportation or the scenic La Jolla Cove Shuttle.
    • For a day trip:
      • Tip: Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many parks along the coast with a view.

Food options:

  • Restaurants: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a local restaurant while savoring the beauty of La Jolla Cove.

  • Things to do:

    • Enjoy the beauty of the ocean: You can go for a swim, snorkel, or kayak in the area.
    • Take a hike along the coast: Enjoy the scenic views from the cliffs!

Day trip to the Gaslamp Quarter:

  • Enjoy the nightlife: Explore the many bars and clubs in La Jolla that offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
  • Hike the trails: Enjoy the fresh air and exercise, and don’t forget to pack your camera to capture the beauty of the coastline!

Don’t forget:

  • To bring a reusable water bottle and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun while you explore.

  • Enjoy the La Jolla:

    • Things to do: Explore the many art galleries, restaurants, and shops in the village.

    • Beach Activities:

      • Day trip options: Explore the beaches along the coast, like La Jolla Shores.

  • For a day trip or a visit to La Jolla: Enjoy the stunning ocean views from the top of the cliffs! * Tips for enjoying the view:

          * **Visit during sunset:** This is when the colors are most vibrant and you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
      * **Bring binoculars:** For a closer look at the marine life in La Jolla Cove.
      * **Enjoy a picnic lunch:**  Pack some snacks and drinks and relax on the beach with an amazing view.

  • Parking is limited: Consider walking, biking, or taking public transportation to avoid the hassle of parking.

  • Explore the historical context:

    • For a deeper understanding: Learn about the history of the region by visiting the La Jolla Historical Society Museum.

Other things to consider:

  • Traffic and parking: Traffic in San Diego can be heavy, especially during rush hour. Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Food options for your trip:

  • Ocean Beach: Enjoy a casual beachside meal at one of the many restaurants.
  • La Jolla Cove: Enjoy a picnic with the iconic view of the ocean and seals.

Enjoy San Diego’s Culinary Scene:

  • For a delicious and unique dining experience:

    • Try the La Jolla Shores with a view: Many restaurants offer outdoor seating, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery while dining.

  • Explore the local farmers markets: Find fresh produce, seafood, baked goods, and other delicious treats at a variety of local farmers markets.

  • Enjoy a beachside meal:

    • Enjoy a fresh and flavorful meal: Enjoy a fresh and fresh seafood and enjoy the sunset. Recommended restaurants:

  • The Marine Room: Fine dining with a view of the ocean.

  • Eddie V’s Prime Seafood: Upscale but casual ambiance.

  • La Jolla Shores Hotel & Restaurant: Offers breathtaking views.

Other things to consider:

  • Check tide charts:

    • For a picnic at La Jolla Shores:

    • Plan for the weather: San Diego has beautiful weather year-round, but it can be cool and breezy in the evenings.

  • Pack comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring.

  • Bring a swimsuit:

    • Things to do: Enjoy the beach!

Stay up to date on your favorite things:

  • Downtown: The heart of San Diego’s cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and theaters.

  • Explore local events: Many websites and apps list local events.

  • Check out La Jolla’s website: You can find information about upcoming events.

Don’t forget:

  • Explore the city: Explore the many restaurants in the village.
  • Enjoy a picnic: Enjoy a view of the Pacific Ocean.

Things to do:

  • Explore the tide pools:

    • A great place for:
    • Experience the beauty: Visit the La Jolla Historical Society for more information on the area’s history and culture.

  • Enjoy the many attractions:

  • Beaches:

    • La Jolla Shores: Beautiful beach views, beautiful sunsets
    • Coronado Island: Enjoy a variety of activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Other things to do in San Diego:

  • Explore the vibrant downtown area:

  • Visit the USS Midway Museum:

Enjoy the culture:

  • Museums:

    • USS Midway Museum: Explore the decks and learn about the history of this historic aircraft carrier.

  • Things to do: Enjoy a variety of activities, including kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

Things to enjoy:

  • The La Jolla Shores:

    • Enjoy the sunset views: The beach is known for its stunning sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.

  • Take a hike in the nearby:

Explore the beauty of La Jolla’s natural landscape: Enjoy the beaches and cliffs, while also learning about the history and culture of the area.

Other things to remember:

  • Bring water!

    • Dehydration is no joke, especially when you’re out exploring the beach or enjoying the outdoors.

  • Pack a snack:

    • You’ll need something to keep your energy levels up.

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and sunscreen for protection: Protect yourself from the sun and enjoy the beaches of La Jolla!

Enjoy the beautiful scenery, explore the tide pools, and try the delicious seafood!