San Diego, the hidden jewel of Southern California, is home to beautiful beaches and parks, a natural deep-water harbor, and charming hotels and restaurants. I recently spent a weekend there and must stay; it charmed me, so today, I am giving you the ultimate Itinerary for San Diego.
Best time to visit San Diego
This charming city has an idyllic Mediterranean-like climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The annual high temperature reaches 70F or 21C, making it the perfect Californian paradise for visitors.
But what are the best months to visit?
For non-budget visitors:
March through May and September through November
For budget visitors:
The end of November through January, excluding the Holiday season
Where to stay
El Coronado Hotel
Let’s start our Itinerary for San Diego with this legendary hotel, Del Coronado. Located in the Coronado area, right on the beach, this spot has so much history written on its walls.
El Coronado was opened in 1888 and has hosted many celebrities, royalty, US presidents, and beach-loving guests for over a century.
Visitors Info: In 1977, El Coronado Hotel was designated a National Historic Landmark.
Visitors Info: In 1954, the legendary movie “Some like it Hot” was filmed here.
I stayed in this hotel during my San Diego visit and had a wonderful time.
Features include:
- Beach Villas overlooking the ocean
- Spacious rooms and suits
- Cabanas with beachfront terraces
- Private residences
- Various high-end restaurants
- Multiple pool areas
- Shopping area
- Spa
- Fitness Center
- Various beach activities and classes
- Proximity to shops, and restaurants
Other great hotels in San Diego:
The Lafayette Hotel and Swim Club
Bahia Resort Hotel
The US Grant Hotel
What to do in San Diego
Visit Balboa Park
This 1200-acre park is the cultural heart of San Diego and represents one of the most beautiful and visited spots. Located just minutes from downtown, Balboa Park features various museums, like the San Diego Air Space Museum and the Museum of Photographic Arts, as well as beautiful gardens, like the Japanse Friendship Garden and Alzacar Garden.
Visitors Info: Balboa Park is one of the top instagrammable places in San Diego.
This spot looks like a true botanical oasis and is a must-visit in San Diego.
Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden
Next on my Itinerary for San Diego is the Japanese Friendship Garden. This beautiful garden represents the bond of friendship between San Diego and its sister city Yokohama.
Here you can see rows and rows of beautiful pine trees, azaleas, camellias, a fantastic bonsai exhibit, the legendary magnolia and cherry blossom trees, and the most significant and oldest bronze Kannon statue in the USA.
The trail is about 0.8 miles, but you can stay inside as long as you like.
Location:Within the Balboa Park
Hours:10:00 am-7:00 pm
Entry fee:$14
Dogs are not allowed
Visit the El Coronado Island
Coronado represents a resort town known for the grand Victorian Hotel del Coronado and wide, flat Coronado Beach, home to surfers and sunbathers.
This spot is visitors’ favorite due to its charming structure, small shops, restaurants, beach cafes, and beautiful hotels.
Drive to La Jolla
Have you ever seen the Netflix show Gracy and Frankie? I have, times 6 🙂 The show is said to be situated in this adorable neighborhood, filled with homes overlooking the ocean. But not just that. The area features charming restaurants, shops, and galleries, making it the perfect spot for visitors who want to learn about the local culture.
Visitors Info:If you are traveling from downtown San Diego, give yourself some time due to traffic, but it is worth the drive.
Discover Little Italy
Visiting Little Italy is a must when in San Diego. This charming area is located a few miles from downtown and the marina, representing a smaller version of Italy. The restaurants are authentic Italian; the streets are pedestrian-friendly, locals roam on scutters, and the shops carry Italian merchandise.
Watch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs
Another great neighborhood that you must visit in San Diego, and this time during sunset, is Sunset Cliffs.
Just like La Jolla, this town features beautiful homes overlooking the ocean and great restaurants but also offers an opportunity for breathtaking sunsets. The town stands on a cliff, therefore the name, and provides a couple of observatory points where visitors can stop by and admire the sun kissing the water.
Night Out at Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp represents a hub for nightlife and dining in San Diego. With a prime location in the downtown area, this District features fun restaurants and dive bars, cocktail lounges, and a “rich” theater program. Here are some of my favorite spots:
Mr.Tempo Cantina
Provisional Kitchen
Lou and Mickey’s
Osteria Panevino
Where to dine
Brunch at El Coronado Hotel Sun Deck
This spot has great beach and ocean views, is open to the public, and offers excellent food and cocktails.
Location: El Coronado Hotel beach terrace
Immerse in chill California vibes, watch the waves crashing while indulging in delicious bites and sipping champagne.
This spot is perfect for brunch.
Lunch at El Pescador La Jolla
Explore the beautiful La Jolla neighborhood for lunch, and enjoy a true San Diego landmark, El Pescador Restaurant. This spot has been serving fresh fish for over 40 years, directly sourced from local fishermen.
Dinner at Solunto, Little Italy
Finish your day with delicious pasta or pizza at this authentic Italian restaurant in Little Italy.
The food is delicious, the service is fantastic, and they offer outdoor seating, perfect for chill California evenings.
Traveling to the US West Coast, check out my 7 Magic Mountains blog post.
In the area? Check out my Weekend in Vegas Itinerary blog post.
I hope you enjoyed my Itinerary for San Diego. Have you ever visited this beautiful city? Let me know in the comments below.
