2024 San Diego Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in December)

Old Town San Diego

Old Town San Diego is a charming and historically rich location, considered the starting point of settlement in California. Highlights: • You will learn about the history of San Diego from the Spanish era, with well-preserved old buildings. • There are souvenir shops, restaurants serving Mexican and Californian cuisine, and local craft shops. Special Activities: During Halloween, Old Town San Diego often hosts special activities and celebrations such as: • Costume Contest: There are costume competitions, and many people dress up as characters from history or literature. • Ghost Tours: Tours focusing on ghost stories and legends of the town, adding to the Halloween atmosphere. • Festivals: Often there are festivals with live music, shops, and food decorated in Halloween themes. Atmosphere: Old Town is decorated in Halloween themes, creating a spooky atmosphere. Summary: Halloween in Old Town San Diego is a fun and lively time, perfect for experiencing special events and enjoying with friends and family.

Exploring Cabrillo National Monument: A Day of Stunning Views and Blue Skies

On a beautiful blue sky day, I visited Cabrillo National Monument, a stunning spot overlooking the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay. The views were breathtaking, with the vibrant blue sea stretching endlessly into the horizon. The monument itself, honoring explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, stood tall against the backdrop of the clear sky. Walking along the trails, I enjoyed panoramic views of the rugged coastline, and the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse was a charming highlight. It was the perfect day to soak in nature’s beauty, with the cool ocean breeze making the experience even more memorable. #100waysoftravel #travelusa#sandiego

Trip to San Diego 🇺🇸

Upon arrival, we explored the Downtown San Diego and the Waterfront. We headed toUSS Midway Museum. This museum is a retired aircraft carrier of the U.S. Navy, operational from 1945 to 1992. It offers a self-guided audio tour with over 60 exhibits, including aircraft on the flight deck. 📍 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 We also explored the Seaport Village. It was opened in 1980, Seaport Village is a waterfront shopping and dining complex that features charming architecture inspired by Victorian and Mexican design. It was a very relaxing environment for a leisurely stroll along the bay. 📍849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 We also visited the famous restaurant, The Prado at Balboa Park. We ordered the shrimp and lobster bisque and we are loving it 😍 📍1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 We also visited the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and exploring the preserved historic buildings and learn about early Californian history. 📍4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110 Besides, we also visited La Jolla and Mission Beach. We started from visiting La Jolla Cove. Followed by Mission Beach and Belmont Park. We enjoyed the beach, boardwalk, and the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster. 📍3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109 If you were to travel to San Diego, I would definitely recommend you to consider renting a car for convenience, as San Diego's attractions are all spread out. Enjoy your trip to San Diego! #vacation #trip #getaway

San Diego is truly therapeutic

Must-visit attractions: 1⃣. USS Midway Museum - Midway-class aircraft carrier, tickets are $31 (reservation required), takes 2-3 hours to explore 2⃣. Balboa Park - A large park with European-style buildings/zoos/museums, etc., takes 2 hours to a full day 3⃣. Sunset Cliff Viewpoint - A spot for watching the sunset, takes about 1 hour 4⃣. Old Town - Can be seen as a Mexican-style village, takes 30 minutes to 1 hour 5⃣. SeaWorld - Marine theme park: amusement park + marine animals, takes 5 hours to a full day 6⃣. Whale Watching - Suitable for whale watching from December to April, takes 2-3 hours, click to book 7⃣. La Jolla Cove - The most beautiful beach in San Diego, with nearby attractions like churches/libraries to visit, takes 1-2 hours 8⃣. Potato Chip Rock - Potato Chip Rock Trail, 4 miles round trip, takes about 2-3 hours 9⃣. SD Safari Park - 'Wild' animal park with many positive reviews, tickets start at $71, takes 4-5 hours 1⃣0⃣. LEGOLAND California - Suitable for children, LEGO theme park, tickets start at $104, takes a full day 1⃣1⃣. The Flower Fields - Famous flower fields, mid-March to early May is the best season, tickets are $23, reservation required, takes 1-2 hours 🌟Hotel recommendations: 🏨Hilton San Diego Bayfront The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hyatt Regency La Jolla at Aventine Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina

If you are a military enthusiast, you must not miss the USS Midway Museum

The USS Midway Museum is a favorite place for military enthusiasts and one of the must-visit attractions in San Diego. This museum is famous for its highly engaging exhibits, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. The USS Midway is the longest-serving aircraft carrier in the US Navy in the 20th century. Now, it is moored next to the Navy Pier in downtown San Diego, open to tourists as a military museum. Once you board the aircraft carrier, you can get a free audio guide at the entrance, which includes a Chinese language option. When you arrive at a place with commentary, just aim at the icon and press the button to hear detailed explanations, which is very convenient. The deck of the aircraft carrier is full of various types of aircraft, and there are many viewing points inside, including areas where sailors worked, rested, received medical treatment, leisure, and dining. From the cabin to the deck, and then to the command tower, walking up and down according to the signs is like entering a maze. Adjacent to the USS Midway is the famous 'Unconditional Surrender' sculpture, which is seen as one of the symbols of the end of World War II. You can go there together and leave a commemorative photo.

The Vibrant City of San Diego

🇺🇸 I had the opportunity to visit city of San Diego on during fall season. San Diego is a city on the Pacific coast of California known for its beaches, parks and warm climate. 🇺🇸 Walking along the beach side with a lot of activities offered for example seal tours, train along the city, and a lot of eateries available especially on the seafood is the main attraction at this city 🇺🇸 A deep harbor is home to a large active naval fleet, with the USS Midway, an aircraft-carrier-turned-museum, open to the public and we had the opportunity to visit the museum. #citywalk #awesomepic #usa

Ultimate Guide to the San Diego's Balboa Park

Getting There: • Public Transportation: Take the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus service to Balboa Park (Routes 7 and 215) • Car: There are multiple parking lots available throughout the park, including the Inspiration Point Parking Lot and the Pan American Plaza Parking Lot. *Be mindful of parking fees and availability, especially during peak times. Attractions: • Museums: San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego Air & Space Museum and the Museum of Photographic Arts. • Gardens: Botanical Building, Japanese Friendship Garden, and Alcazar Garden. • San Diego Zoo • Fleet Science Center Food & Restaurants: Prado Restaurant (American and international cuisine), Panama 66 (love their creative dishes & cocktails) **Tips:Get a park map!! Pick up a park map from the visitor center or download it from the official website. The map will help you navigate the park, locate the attractions you want to visit, and find restrooms, dining options, and parking areas💯 #mytripvlog #awesomepic #sandiego #travel

Hot air balloons flying all over the sky.

The most beautiful hot air balloon in Cappadocia is also the most exciting part. On the first day of Eid al-Fitr, hot air balloons soar in the sky above the Cappadocia region, full of romance and beauty.

San Diego

San Diego is an amazing city situated in Southern California. It has an airport with links to many domestic US cities and a greyhound bus terminal. The city itself is small enough that it’s easy to travel around. Alongside the beach is a boardwalk with a nice theme park and some small shops and cafe/restaurants. Away from the coast is the famous gas lamp quarter full of great bars and restaurants. The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world featuring pandas and other animals which hard to see in other countries. If you’re feeling adventurous then you can also do a day trip to Mexico and visit the city of Tijuana which lies close to the border. If you’re visiting California then this is a must visit! #nationalpark #zoo #2023travelwish #urbanexplorer

pacific beach - San diego

#celebratewithtrip pacific beach - San diego - california 🇺🇸 Pacific Beach is a relaxed neighborhood by the beach, popular with sunbathers and surfers. a very long long beach and many many place for entertainment. Pacific Beach is one of San Diego's best beaches. The wide, flat beach is tucked between the Pacific Ocean and a 3.2-mile-long boardwalk lined with beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops The two most popular activities at Pacific Beach beaches are swimming and surfing and obviously have a fun. Pacific Beach is Very Walkable for family and children. with walk ride skate or rollers is a busy area so the beaches here can get pretty crowded, especially near Crystal Pier. don't need a car. You can easily get around to the places you around also using lyft and Uber. The distance between San Diego Airport (SAN) and Pacific Beach is 5 miles. The road distance is 7.6 miles. the water temperature is manageable and the climatic condition are always goos. #spooktaculartrip #tripblazers #fallingforfall #beachlife #campingglamping #cafe #america #usa #california_surf

border city

#CelebrateWithTrip San Diego is a beautiful city it one of the border crossing into Mexico . so definitely here you can hear lot of people speaking Spanish. In fact I feel Spanish is more commonly spoken then English over here in San Diego . The international is located about 20 mins drive from the down town . If you happen to flying in LAX you can rent a car which cheap and drive about 2 hours to San Diego getting around in San Diego is fairly easy you can take one of the many red tram around . In fact the the red train also go to the edge of the United States border and it absolutely very safe on the train Food and drink as a lot around town down . you will never get hungry

San Diego: Best weather on the planet!!

The best weather on the planet! Any time of year, you can find it here! Perfect weather. The warmest months high is 76° degrees Fahrenheit and the coldest month an average of 65°. On the beautiful coast of Southern California is San Diego. A fantastic city to visit. A destination where the weather is always sunny, warm, and pleasant. San Diego isn't just perfect weather. San Diego is also famous for its beautiful city, gorgeous white sand beaches, and breath taking sunsets. San Diego is also home of the world famous San Diego ZOO. It's a city with so much to see and do. Shopping at Seaport Village or Old Town, dinner at one of the many delicious restaurants in Little Italy, and exciting nightlife in the Gaslamp District, you can't go wrong with San Diego!! #beachlife #summervacation #wintergetaway #foodie #gaslampdistrict #seaportvillage #waterfront #sunsets #watersports #sunshinecoast #perfectweather

Never Boring Balboa Park

There is always something to do at Balboa Park. The museums are surrounded by beautiful walkways to enjoy on a nice sunny day. Interests range from airplanes and space to Comicon or Natural History at the museums. Ducks, fish and turtles can be seen in the pond on the way to the Botanical Garden. A visit to the colorful Artist Village lets you see artists in action and buy their unique wares. The San Diego Zoo is at the back of the park with a huge collection of animals, including polar bears. If you're trying to decide what to do, take a ride on the free tram to look at all of the attractions. No matter what you want to do, there is always a huge selection of things to choose from at Balboa Park. #sandiego #museum

La Jolla Cove - San Diego, USA

#passionpassport La Jolla Cove is a small coastal inlet surrounded by picturesque sandstone bluffs that shelter the popular La Jolla Cove Beach. Gulls, cormorants, sea lions, and native plants line these bluffs above the Pacific Ocean, making this one of the most pretty and photographed areas in Southern California. La Jolla Cove is also one of the most popular San Diego tourist spots and is located in the heart of downtown La Jolla or what we locals call the Village of La Jolla. This means it’s an easy stop for anyone staying in La Jolla hotels or visiting our seaside community on a day trip. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations

The USS Midway Museum is a historical naval aircraft carrier museum located in downtown San Diego, California at Navy Pier. The museum consists of the aircraft carrier Midway. The ship houses an extensive collection of aircraft, many of which were built in Southern California.

San Diego downtown

Beautiful San Diego downtown. Great walk along the seasides. The old train station is very beautiful. You can get on a trolley, a local train, or an Amtrak train to Los Angeles and even norther. It is very convenient and the area is nice. It is nice to walk along the seaside. You can see the Midway aircraft carrier in the USS Midway Museum, which is interesting experience. San Diego has one of the best weather in the US. Not very hot in summer and nice weather for travelers. Also there are lots of small food trucks where food and drinks are sold. Also lots of Chinese made souvenirs are sold. Not too many tourists though. Worth visit in conclusion.

Seals and Seagulls at La Jolla beach

Address - La Jolla Ambiance/Facilities - a fun and fresh location to have your picnic time and relaxing Highlights - Seals, Seagulls, ocean breeze Avg. Price per Person - FREE! Rating - absolutely 10/10 #lajolla #sandiego #usa

Feeling Christmas in San Diego's Little Italy

Traveling to the western part of the United States for the year-end trip I could feel the atmosphere of Christmas and the holiday season in San Diego The accommodation in Little Italy was decorated with Christmas trees and colorful lights In particular, many stores in Little Italy were singing carols and it looked really happy to see people gathered with their families to enjoy the year-end After returning to the accommodation, I watched Home Alone on TV Even though it rarely snows in San Diego, you can feel the Christmas atmosphere!! I recommend going to San Diego for your year-end trip Location: Little Italy #SanDiegoTravel #YearEndTravel #ChristmasAtmosphere #Christmas #SanDiego #LittleItaly #TravelingWesternUSA

Aroma Cafe

Aroma Cafe used to have a bookstore where kids could go and be told fairytales while the parents could relax with a cup of coffee or tea (they have an array of drink specialities to choose from) and a dessert (they have the best dessert selection). They're a bit pricey for their turn-out which is always packed by the locals and people who hear about it - but the food is worth it. Counter service to order and then it's delivered to you, usually in good tiime and while hot and they'll make up for any mistakes. The only changes I've seen that have kept me from going back as frequently is the outlets are such that no one can plug a laptop in. That was the charm of the beginning of Aroma and if you happen to find one of the hidden ones - a worker will be sent at you to demand that you unplug it. They could be nicer about it and just say, we want to move people through even faster (considering it was the locals that made this place a huge hit, one would think they'd be happy to accommodate. #christmasgiveaway #mapletrees #luxuryhotel #skiing #nationalpark

Two Shades Coffee

The atmosphere is European-like and busy. Take a number to be waited on once you've looked over their menu and made choices. The food under the glass is ever so appealing breads, cakes, pies, a variety of tasty salads, sandwiches, etc. I've never eaten anything there that wasn't delicious. The serve drip coffee. Now they offer beer and wine. A great place for breakfast, lunch or even an informal dinner. There are a few tables inside, a marble bar to pull up a stool to and some tables outside. The staff at the counter are always friendly and courteous, as are the expeditors that bring food to your table. Nothing fancy here but a variety of tasty foods! The food is a bit more expensive than average. #christmasgiveaway #mapletrees #luxuryhotel #skiing #nationalpark

Urbano Cafe

I love this place. First, it's on Abbot Kinney, a wonderful place to stroll in Venice. Second, the coffee is the best brew around. Whether you're getting a fresh brewed, gently poured cafe or an expresso drink, they're are made with great beans, care, and beauty. The people working there will also help you pick out the best brew for you. I also love the baked goods, try the donut of the day. Bring your laptop and stay a while or hang out on a bench in the front with your pooch. You will be very happy you came. Having had a coffee that was just okay at The Butcher’s Daughter, we needed something with more depth of flavour and complexity. While there is an air here of “we know we are good” I’ll take it. The coffee is world standard and years ago when I came here the first time I just loved the way the café is set out with almost a stage for those attempting adverse possession with their laptops, and a big square bar with heaps of nooks to enjoy your chosen beverage. #christmasgiveaway #mapletrees #luxuryhotel #skiing #nationalpark

Communal Cafe

If I had to pick a favorite west coast city, it would have to be San Diego. The weather, the views, the beach, the food and coffee shops like this one make San Diego some kind of special. Communal coffee exists to create a welcoming environment that builds community, encourage creativity and foster collaboration. There are 3 locations across the San Diego area and this is the university location. With ample and adorable seating, you will want to bring a book to read or a laptop to get some work done in this sweet space. After you sip your coffee, you’ll probably also want to pick up some flowers that they sell right here in the shop as well. Parking is limited but there is ample street parking near the shop. I enjoyed a delicious cold brew but honestly I’m sure any drink you order is going to be amazing. #cafe #christmasgiveaway #mapletrees #luxuryhotel #skiing #nationalpark

Recommended restaurants in San Diego 👍🏻

☑️ Extraordinary Dessert Location: 1430 Union St, San Diego, CA 92101 United States Time: 10:00-20:30 This dessert restaurant has a high Google rating of 4.3!! Extraordinary Dessert is a dessert restaurant that is the pride of San Diego 😆💖 I ordered blueberry cheesecake, lemon pound cake, and Americano vanilla latte, and it came to almost $50 in total!! I really, really recommend the lemon pound cake 👍🏻 ☑️ Phil’s BBQ Location: 3750 Sports Arena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92110 United States Phil’s BBQ is already famous for its delicious food There are a lot of waiting lines and a lot of customers who take out! We ordered a full size beef rib with coleslaw and french fries as a side and onion rings. Be sure to add onion rings ‼️ They are really crispy, big, and delicious And Phil's BBQ is self-service, so you don't have to pay a separate tip, so you can save a little bit of money on food Phil's BBQ is delicious and good value for money!! Please visit and try it 💚 #SanDiego #SoloTravel #RestaurantRecommendation #DessertChooser

meeting the wildlife

The most popular San Diego tourist attraction is the San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park. It is a truly special place in that every dollar you spend goes toward the care of the animals and various conservation initiatives. Over 4500 species of plants, many of which are prized exotics, help replicate the natural habitats of the 3500 animals who call these 100 acres home. A must try! #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer #momentsmission

Exploring the sea and fun

SeaWorld San Diego is more than marine life and shows. The Southern California theme park’s fantastic lineup of thrill rides and fun attractions draw visitors to our city from all over the world. Older kids and adults love the roller coasters and water rides. You’ll also find SeaWorld San Diego rides for the youngest members of your group at Sesame Street Bay of Play. #urbanexplorer #themeparks#nationalpark#lakes#beaches #momentsmission

San Diego Travelogue - Coronado Island

Coronado Island, which you can get to by bus from downtown San Diego Hotel del Coronado was also the setting for Marilyn Monroe's movie Coronado Island, famous for its beautiful beaches, is a must-see!! As you leisurely walk along the beach and look at the horizon in the distance, you feel as if your heart is being blown away The joy is even greater because the weather in San Diego is really good Location: Coronado, California, USA 92118 #SanDiegoTravel #LifeTravelDestination #CoronadoIsland #CoronadoBeach #SanDiego #USWestTravel #USTravel #Sea #NextTimeHere#TravelGuidebook#2019Travel#WithNature

Waterfront Park

Possessing a very apt name, Waterfront Park is a great South Carolina attraction for experiencing wonder on land and sea. You can come to Waterfront Park full of energy or feeling fairly mellow and end up satisfied either way. This park makes a great case for Charleston as one of the most beautiful places in USA. Providing great visual access to the Charleston Harbor, Waterfront Park is one of the top places in Charleston for just sitting back and seeing boats go by. One of the most exciting attractions is the pineapple fountain, which might have you salivating for a tropical treat. You can also spot pelicans hanging by the piers or flying. Waterfront Park is something you must see if you want proof of how impressive a park can be. One of the most amazing places to visit in South Carolina, Waterfront Park continues to engage and delight visitors. It’s open every day from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Address: Vendue Range, Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401, United States

San Diego Zoo

With thousands of animals in hundreds of habitats, the San Diego Zoo is the biggest zoo in California. It houses all of the usual suspects, including lions, gorillas and elephants, but it’s also home to unique species like the pancake tortoise and the clouded leopard. Some of these creatures are only on display at the San Diego Zoo, so it’s a rare opportunity to see and photograph them in real life. Visitors to the zoo can hop on a train or ride a gondola skylift to reach different enclosures. Special events happen on the weekends for kids and couples, including “sunrise tours” before the zoo opens and “wild nights out” that include drinks, music and animal petting. Are you still planning your vacation from home? Check out the zoo’s live cams on your smartphone to watch the frolicking of penguins and polar bears. You can decide if you’re interested in a visit before you even pack your bag. The San Diego Zoo is easily one of the top things to do in California. If you want a fun time with your favorite critters, buy a ticket today. Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Communal Coffee – San Diego, California

Communal Coffee is a trendy coffee spot in San Diego with two locations, that makes some great coffees in a very chill atmosphere. They’re all about coffee + flowers, as shown by the huge mural in the store and flowers are displayed throughout the store in North Park. Grab a house roast blend here and wait in line to take a picture in front of the Coffee + Flowers mural. The South Park location is a super cute coffee truck! Their clean design ethos is simple but striking, making it top dog of the most Instagrammable cafes in America. #café

Petco Park

Dare I say that Petco Park is one of the coolest ballparks in the MLB. Part of the reason is that it’s built around the historic Western Metal Supply Co. building, hosts some of the best sight lines in baseball, and boasts panoramic water and skyline views from some seats. Go of course to take in a Major League Baseball game, but that’s not the only treat. Many of San Diego’s best restaurants and breweries (in Beer Alley) maintain smaller outlets here so that attendees can sample the best cuisine our region has to offer. #urbanexplorer #themeparks#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#infinitypool