San Diego is a must-do on any trip to California but with so many things to see and do it might be a bit difficult to plan a well-spent trip on such a limited time. To ease the pressure you can use this guide to begin with.
Day 1
Morning
Old Town San Diego
There is no better place to start your visit than where it all began-Old Town-this area so aptly named is the birthplace of California. In 1821 when Mexico gained independence from Spain they began building homes near the first mission and Presidio and San Diego have only grown since then. It features the Whaley House-“Most Haunted House in America”, Mormon Battalion, and if your tummy starts to cry out for hunger while walking around then you can some authentic Mexican food in the Old Town Community that unique shops, boutiques and “lots” of Mexican restaurants.
Old Town Trolley
Continue on a history buff morning by catching one of these trolleys. It’s a fun and interesting way to navigate the area whilst learning about it. The train runs every 30 minutes and you can hop on and off any of its 10 stops and be guided by a tour guide who is also the driver.
Afternoon
“Yikes! THE BEACH! Did you forget that you are in California’s Beach City? A trip to San Diego would almost be incomplete if you didn’t visit one of its many beaches. Whatever mood you are in, there is a beach to ride your waves. However, a few must mention are Mission Beach, La Jolla Shores, Ocean Beach and Del Mar City Beach. Finally, you can relax for the rest of the afternoon and watch the sun go down at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
Night
The Gaslamp Quarter
“The historic heart of San Diego,” “The center of nightlife scene”, what else? “THE HEARTBEAT of San Diego.” There is nothing but good things to hear about the Gaslamp Quarter, so make it a must-see while on your trip. It’s a lively neighborhood filled with restaurants, bars, and lounges that comes alive especially at nights. Experience a myriad of delicious cuisines or embark upon a vibrant and electric night at any of the nightclubs you’ll find there.
Day 2
Morning
Breakfast at the Breakfast Republic and Balboa Park
It’s your last 24 hours in the city and there is so much more to do. However, before you start your day, energize your engine and catch the most important meal of the day at the Breakfast Republic – a favorite hotspot for locals and tourists to enjoy a well hearty breakfast. There are plenty of locations in the City, so wherever you are they have got you covered.
Now you are all fuelled-up, it’s time to take on the famous, must-visit Balboa Park. This is the biggest park in San Diego and is actually bigger than Central Park in New York City with double the acreage. It houses a number of fun and exciting attractions including the Old Globe Theater, San Diego Zoo and a myriad of museums (over 15) such as the San Diego Museum, Spanish architecture. The Park is very popular with locals and tourists alike and it goes without saying, that it is an experience in and of itself and you could actually spend the entire 48 hours in San Diego touring this one place.
Afternoon
Balboa Park was the hit right? Catch up a bit more with nature at Torrey Pines State Park– one of only two places on earth where nature lovers can find the ancient Torrey Pine (Pinus torreyana), the nation’s rarest pine tree. You might be a bit hungry afterward so you can grab lunch when you arrive back in town, at any taco stand or burger joint.
USS Midway Museum
Before you leave San Diego be sure to dedicate a few hours to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a historic aircraft carrier. It is conveniently located downtown, along the Embarcedero; so you can head there right after lunch. It features many fun activities for all ages so if you are with the family everyone can get involved.
Night
So what to do on your final night in San Diego? Why not have dinner at Bertrand at Mister A’s- I mean can you ever go wrong with exquisite French-hued American cuisines? These mouth-watering dishes are suited to any special occasion, like kissing the sweet charms of San Diego goodbye until your next visit.
