Itinerary for San Diego Getaway: 5 Days

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The Perfect 5-Day San Diego Itinerary: Beaches, Tacos, and Family Fun

It’s funny how the place I live in is one of the hardest for me to give travel recommendations for. That’s because it’s San Diego–one of the best cities to visit in California. And there is so much to see and do here.

In a nutshell, the staples you won’t want to miss when coming to San Diego are the beaches and the Mexican food. Everything else is really just icing on the cake. But that being said, there is a lot of icing to be had because there is so much more you can do in San Diego.

With its stunning beaches, world-class attractions, and endless sunshine, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with kids, as a couple, or on a solo adventure, this 5-day itinerary for your San Diego vacation will give you a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and, of course, incredible food. And if you plan to visit in the winter, check out these awesome winter activities in San Diego.

Make sure you check out this list of cheap things to do in San Diego as well, for even more budget-friendly ideas.

Itinerary for San Diego: Where to Stay

In the past I’ve shared some of my favorite beachfront San Diego resorts along with the San Diego hotels with the best pools. Be sure to check those out for more fun ideas for places to stay. But here are some top recommendations.

• For families: Stay at the Hotel del Coronado for a beachfront experience or Hilton San Diego Bayfront for easy access to downtown attractions.
• For couples:Pendry San Diego offers a chic Gaslamp Quarter experience, while L’Auberge Del Mar provides a more intimate coastal retreat.
• For budget travelers: Consider Old Town Inn for a charming and affordable stay or Beach Haven Hotel in Pacific Beach for a surfside vibe.

Day 1: Explore Downtown & the Waterfront

Kick off your trip by exploring the heart of San Diego.

• Breakfast: Grab a coffee and a pastry at Copa Vida in the Gaslamp Quarter.
• Morning: Stroll along the Embarcadero and visit the USS Midway Museum, an interactive experience aboard an aircraft carrier. If you have kids, the Waterfront Park is a lot of fun and can be a good place for the kids to get some energy out while you enjoy your coffee and beautiful views.
• Lunch: Try the fresh seafood at Point Loma Seafoods with views of the harbor.
• Afternoon: Visit Seaport Village for some shopping and walk over to The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park to soak in some scenic views.
• Dinner: Enjoy a laid-back meal at Born & Raised, a stylish steakhouse in Little Italy.

Day 2: Beach Day in La Jolla & Sunset Cliffs

San Diego’s coastline is simply breathtaking, and La Jolla is a must-visit. Day 2 of this itinerary for San Diego will be about enjoying the beauty on the coast.

• Breakfast: Start at The Cottage La Jolla for delicious lemon ricotta pancakes.
• Morning: Explore La Jolla Cove, watch the sea lions, and take a kayak tour of the sea caves. Or if the tides are low, check out the amazing tide pools in La Jolla.
• Lunch: Grab a casual but delicious taco plate at Puesto La Jolla.
• Afternoon: Relax at Windansea Beach or take a scenic walk along the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.
• Evening: Drive to Sunset Cliffs for one of the most stunning sunset views in California.
• Dinner: Enjoy seafood with ocean views at George’s at the Cove.

Read more about the best La Jolla Beaches here in case this day leaves you thirsty for more!

Day 3: Balboa Park & the San Diego Zoo

No trip to San Diego is complete without a visit to Balboa Park.

• Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at James Coffee Co. in Little Italy.
• Morning: Wander through Balboa Park, exploring its Spanish-style architecture and gardens.
• Lunch: Have a relaxed meal at The Prado at Balboa Park.
• Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day at the San Diego Zoo, one of the best in the world.
• Dinner: Head to The Crack Shack in Little Italy for gourmet fried chicken sandwiches. This is a great spot for the whole family as well. There are yard games and places for the kids to roam.

Day 4: Coronado Island & Old Town

The fourth day of this San Diego itinerary allows you to enjoy a mix of history and beachside relaxation.

• Breakfast: Enjoy a morning coffee and avocado toast at Clayton’s Coffee Shop.
• Morning: Spend time at Coronado Beach, known for its sparkling sand and views of the Hotel del Coronado.
• Lunch: Have a beachside lunch at The Brigantine Coronado.
• Afternoon: Explore Old Town San Diego, a charming historic district with Mexican heritage.
• Dinner: Indulge in authentic tacos and margaritas at Casa Guadalajara. While there are tons of restaurants in Old Town, Casa Guadalajara is my favorite for authentic Mexican food. It’s even where I had my rehearsal dinner for my wedding–I love it that much.

Day 5: North County & Coastal Adventures

Wrap up your San Diego trip with a relaxing day along the coast.

• Breakfast: Head to Better Buzz Coffee for an energizing start.
• Morning: Explore Carlsbad Village and check out The Flower Fields (seasonal). Or if traveling with kids, spending the day at Legoland is always a lot of fun.
• Lunch: Enjoy a fresh, organic meal at Choice Juicery.
• Afternoon: Spend your last few hours on the beach at Moonlight Beach in Encinitas or explore the Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens.
• Dinner: Celebrate your trip with a final meal at Jeune et Jolie, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Carlsbad.

Itinerary for San Diego:Final Thoughts

Note that San Diego has a ton of great dining options–if any of the suggestions on this itinerary for your San Diego vacation don’t sound great, please don’t settle. There are so many great options you can opt for instead.

There are so many amazing places to choose from. Plus, you’ll find some excellent dessert places too. And if you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out my list of the best kid-friendly restaurants in San Diego as well.

It’s easy to see why San Diego is one of the top travel destinations for families. It’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again. Whether you’re surfing in Pacific Beach, hiking Torrey Pines, or indulging in street tacos, this city has a way of making every moment feel special. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget the sunscreen!

For more Southern California fun, check out this list of the best Los Angeles attractions for families, the best hotels for families in L.A., and the top family resorts in Santa Barbara.

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