San Diego: The Perfect Long Weekend Getaway.

Discover paradise in San Diego's sun-kissed beaches and vibrant city life.

22 April 2023

Visiting San Diego as a tourist means soaking up the Californian sun while exploring the city's laid-back coastal vibe. From the world-famous San Diego Zoo to the USS Midway Museum, there's an abundance of attractions for all ages. With stunning beaches, delicious food and drink, and a vibrant nightlife, San Diego is the perfect destination for an unforgettable holiday.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Surf, Sand, and Sunsets

  • Check into the Tower23 Hotel, right on Pacific Beach with stunning ocean views
  • Learn to surf with San Diego Surf School, catch some waves and soak up the sun
  • Take a sunset stroll along the boardwalk and grab a bite to eat at World Famous, famous for their seafood and margaritas
  • Head to the beach bonfire at night, roast marshmallows and meet locals
Day 2

History, Culture, and Tacos

  • Visit the iconic San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,500 animals and a must-see attraction
  • Explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter, full of Victorian-era buildings, trendy boutiques and delicious Mexican street food, head to Puesto for the tastiest tacos in town
  • Visit the USS Midway, a floating museum and learn about the history of the US Navy
  • End the day with a sunset sail on San Diego Bay, a perfect end to a busy day
Day 3

Nature, Art, and Craft Beer

  • Take a hike in Torrey Pines State Reserve, a stunning park with breathtaking ocean views and unique flora and fauna
  • Visit the San Diego Museum of Art, home to over 20,000 works of art from around the world and rotating exhibits
  • Go on a brewery tour with Flagship Cruises & Events, sail around San Diego Bay with a craft beer in hand
  • Have dinner at The Smoking Goat, a French-inspired restaurant with delicious dishes and a cozy atmosphere
Day 4

Seaside Charm and Seafood

  • Visit the charming and historic town of La Jolla, stroll around the shops and galleries and visit the seals at the Children's Pool
  • Have lunch at Jakes Del Mar, a beachside restaurant with spectacular views and fresh seafood
  • Go on a snorkeling tour of La Jolla Cove, see the vibrant marine life and explore the sea caves
  • End the trip with a farewell dinner at The Marine Room, a fine dining experience with unmatched views of the ocean and stunning sunset views.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to San Diego by plane is to fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN) which is located just 3 miles from downtown San Diego. There are direct flights available from many major cities in the United States and abroad.

Car

Driving to San Diego is a great option if you are coming from nearby cities or states. The best route to take would depend on your starting location, but popular options include taking the I-5 if you are coming from Los Angeles or Orange County or the I-8 if you are coming from Arizona.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no trains that go directly to San Diego. However, you can take Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner to the Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego from other major cities in Southern California.

Boat

It is not possible to get to San Diego by boat as there are no passenger ferry services that operate to San Diego. However, there are many marinas in San Diego that offer boat storage and rental services if you are interested in exploring the city's beautiful coastline by sea.

Bus

The best way to get to San Diego by bus is to take Greyhound or Megabus which both have multiple daily routes to San Diego from various cities throughout the United States.

Destination

San Diego

If palm trees and sunshine are your thing, then San Diego is the answer to your prayers. Get ready to regret not packing enough sunscreen and flip flops because this city has enough blue skies to make a Smurf jealous.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

San Diego in 48: Beaches, Burgers, and Family Fun!

A family-friendly trip to San Diego, United States offers an abundance of activities for all ages. Enjoy the world-famous San Diego Zoo, where kids can get up close with animals from across the globe. Head to the beautiful beaches for sun-soaked days building sandcastles, swimming, and even trying out water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding. Explore LEGOLAND, a theme park and aquarium perfect for young ones, filled with thrilling rides and interactive exhibits.

A Romantic Long Weekend in San Diego

A romantic trip to San Diego, United States promises a delightful blend of coastal charm and urban energy. With golden beaches, iconic attractions like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, and a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars, you'll have plenty of opportunities for strolling hand in hand, enjoying candlelit dinners, and soaking up the laid-back vibe of California. From whale-watching tours to sunset sails, there are also plenty of activities to add some adventure and excitement to your trip.

The Ultimate 3-Day Romantic Getaway in San Diego

San Diego offers a perfect romantic getaway with its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and gorgeous cityscape. Couples can indulge in cozy dinners, romantic walks on the beach, and exciting adventures. From the historic Gaslamp quarter to the breathtaking Balboa Park, San Diego has everything to make your trip unforgettable.

The Ultimate 5-Day San Diego Getaway Guide

Visiting San Diego would consist of soaking up the sunshine, strolling along the beautiful beaches and experiencing the city's rich history and culture. With attractions like Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, there is never a shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant city. San Diego offers an incredible culinary scene, a world-renowned craft beer culture and a laid-back lifestyle that will have visitors returning year after year.