SAN DIEGO TRIP PLANNER

This San Diego trip planner shares everything you need to know before you go to San Diego, including when to go, where to visit and how to get around. 

With beautiful beaches, perfect weather year-round and plenty of things to see and do, there is no wonder why San Diego is one of America’s most popular tourist destinations.

WHEN TO VISIT SAN DIEGO

Firstly, let’s look at when to visit. San Diego is lovely and warm all year but there are certain times of the year to avoid. Visit in January to March if you can, the weather is cooler and it’s low season, so everything is less crowded and less expensive. Spring and Summer can be rainy and overcast.

COST OF TRAVEL IN SAN DIEGO

As an American city, a vacation in San Diego will cost you more than cities elsewhere in the world but not as much as Californian cities such as LA or San Francisco. Hotel rooms range from $90 to $140 in a 2 or 3-star room, whilst budget hotel rooms can be as low as $70. If you are looking for something more luxurious, expect to pay upwards of $200. An average meal costs around $13 whilst a local beer will cost around $6.

HOW TO GET AROUND SAN DIEGO

San Diego is a large city with many neighbourhoods to explore. The easiest way to get around San Diego and California is by renting a car or using Uber or Lyft. Staying downtown also offers plenty of places to eat and drink within walking distance.

WHERE TO STAY IN SAN DIEGO

There are some great neighbourhoods to choose from in San Diego when you are planning where to stay. Gaslamp is the heart of the city and a great place for nightlife and dining options. North Park is a diverse neighbourhood with some cute coffee shops, boutique stores and great little cottages. Little Italy is a trendy, pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood packed with creative cocktail bars whilst Point Loma – Ocean Beach offers a laid-back, relaxed vibe on the beach.

THINGS TO DO IN SAN DIEGO

When planning your itinerary, keep in mind some of these great things to do in the city.

Balboa Park is a picturesque 2100-acre urban cultural park, home to gardens, walkways, theatres and museums. It is also where you’ll find the famous San Diego Zoo.

Whilst in the city, find some time to visit the USS Midway Museum, the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the world and now home to a large museum deduced to air crafts and aviation.

Make sure you find some time to relax on the beach too! Head to La Jolla for an upscale oceanfront community compete with fine dining or head to Coronado Beach or Pacific Beach to relax and unwind.

San Diego offers some amazing food, with tasty fish tacos and enchiladas available all over the city. The city is also the birthplace of the California Burrito so pick one up after visiting one or two of the amazing craft beer spots.

San Diego Old Town is also a historic site to visit in California, being the first European settlement and home to buildings dating back to 1820.

Between December and April, head out on the waters for some whale watching or watch a baseball game at the state-of-the-art Petco Park.

If you are looking for some peace and quiet, head out to Carlsbad, a small beach town in California, just outside of San Diego. Here you can visit Legoland, enjoy the water activities along the beach front or take a hike along the coast.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO TO SAN DIEGO

Before you visit, we have a few more San Diego travel tips:

• Bring layers and an umbrella. Although the weather is pleasant all year, the city can experience some chilly winds and rains at times. Check the weather forecast before your visit and pack these essentials.
• Take the trolley. Although driving is easier, the trolley is a great way to get around during your vacation, especially during rush hour.
• It is worth making a reservation for tours at the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park to avoid disappointment.
• Head to Hillcrest, North Park or Kensington to eat the best food.
• If you are short on time, use the hop-on, hop-off buses and boats for a sightseeing tour around the best attractions.
• Book tickets online in advance for major attractions, this saves time queueing and saves money.
• Avoid visiting during Comic-Con as room rates are limited and costly.
• Spend some time exploring some other incredible USA bucket list items whilst in America.