Two Days in San Diego: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Planning a quick trip to San Diego? With just 2 days in San Diego, you can experience the city’s iconic sights, beautiful beaches, and incredible food without feeling rushed. This 2-day itinerary combines the must-see attractions in San Diego with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenic views.
Quick Breakdown of 2 Days in San Diego
Day 1: Downtown & Coastal Highlights
- Morning: Visit Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo
- Afternoon: Explore the Embarcadero and Seaport Village
- Evening: Dine in Little Italy and enjoy the nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter
Day 2: Beaches and Scenic Views
- Morning: Kayak or snorkel at La Jolla Cove
- Afternoon: Relax at Pacific Beach and visit Belmont Park
- Evening: Watch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs
Day 1: Discovering the Coastline and Downtown San Diego
Morning: Start Your Day at Balboa Park
Kick off your San Diego trip with a visit to Balboa Park, one of the largest cultural parks in the country. With 1,200 acres of beautiful gardens, Spanish-Renaissance architecture, and a world-class zoo, Balboa Park is the ideal spot to immerse yourself in both nature and history. It’s home to over 16 museums, including the San Diego Natural History Museum, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the Air & Space Museum. If you’re coming with a large group (+10), consider booking a private walking tour of Balboa Park with one of our local guides.
Must-Sees in Balboa Park
- San Diego Zoo: Begin your day by wandering through the zoo’s vast exhibits with over 12,000 animals. From the Lost Forest to the Elephant Odyssey, you’ll encounter animals like koalas and elephants in naturalistic habitats. Plus, you can now visit the giant pandas at the zoo as of Sept. 2024!
- Museum of Man: Explore this premier museum’s fascinating exhibits on anthropology.
- Timken Museum of Art: features European masterpieces and free admission.
- Botanical Building: One of the most photographed spots in Balboa Park, the Botanical Building is home to over 2,100 plants, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
- Japanese Friendship Garden: is another tranquil spot for a peaceful morning stroll.
- Spanish Village Art Center: Explore this hidden gem with its brightly colored tiles and local art galleries.
Pro Tip: Arrive early at the zoo to avoid crowds and make use of the Skyfari Aerial Tram for sweeping views of both the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park.
Lunch Break: Panama 66
After your morning adventure, stop for lunch at Panama 66, located within the Sculpture Garden in Balboa Park. This casual eatery offers fresh sandwiches, salads, and craft beers—all while you enjoy the outdoor seating and local art.
Afternoon: Stroll the Embarcadero and Seaport Village
Once you’ve soaked in the beauty of Balboa Park, it’s time to head toward the coast and explore the Embarcadero. This waterfront area is perfect for taking in the views of San Diego Bay, and it’s home to several attractions, including the USS Midway Museum.
Things to Do Along the Embarcadero
- USS Midway Museum: Step aboard this retired aircraft carrier and dive into naval history with interactive exhibits, restored planes, and tours of the flight deck.
- Seaport Village: Enjoy a leisurely walk through this charming waterfront shopping district. Browse the boutique shops, grab a coffee, or indulge in an ice cream cone from Portside Coffee & Gelato.
- Maritime Museum: Located along the Embarcadero, featuring historic ships, including the Star of India.
Pro Tip: The USS Midway can take up to 2-3 hours to fully explore. If you’re short on time, take a walk along the Broadway Pier to enjoy the coastal views and harbor breeze.
Hungry? Stop by a few of our favorites:
- The Fish Market – Gaze across the bay at the USS Midway while you enjoy delicious sea-to-table fish and other delicacies at The Fish Market.
- Mike Hess – this newest location of Mike Hess Brewing features 23 handles of custom-crafted beers, kombucha, hard cider, as well as a tasty selection of tacos, burritos, nachos and much more via Quiero Tacos.
- Portside Pier — This pier has great views and great dining alongside it to boot! Just a few of our recommendations:
- Brigantine – A true San Diego mainstay. Enjoy fresh seafood and classic American fare.
- Ketch Grill & Tapas – a casual dining experience with an elevated view! Ketch offers a selection of craft beers and delicious pub fare.
- Portside Coffee & Gelato – And for those with a sweet tooth, Portside serves up artisanal gelato and a variety of espresso drinks.
So Diego specializes in food tours in San Diego. If you’re a foodie and want to try the best bites in town, tours are readily available and run daily.
Evening: Dinner and Nightlife in Little Italy & Gaslamp Quarter
As the evening rolls in, make your way to Little Italy for a delicious dinner. This bustling neighborhood is known for its Italian restaurants and lively atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing. If you find yourself with extra time, consider joining So Diego on a Little Italy wine tasting tour.
Top Dinner Spots in Little Italy
- Born & Raised: A must for steak lovers, this upscale restaurant features rooftop dining with great views.
- Bencotto Italian Kitchen: Savor homemade pasta and Italian comfort food in a cozy setting.
- Ironside Fish & Oyster: A seafood lover’s paradise, with a raw bar and excellent seafood dishes.
After dinner, head over to the Gaslamp Quarter for a taste of San Diego’s nightlife. Wander the historic streets, pop into one of the many bars or lounges, and soak in the vibrant energy.
Nightlife Options
- Altitude Sky Lounge: A rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city and Petco Park.
- Noble Experiment: A hidden speakeasy with a curated cocktail menu for an intimate nightcap.
- So Diego Gaslamp Food Tour: Want help exploring Gaslamp’s best food, places and history? Our tour guides have you covered!
Day 2: Beaches and Coastal Adventures
Morning: Kayak at La Jolla Cove
No trip to San Diego is complete without spending time along the coast, and La Jolla Cove is one of the most scenic spots you can visit. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, La Jolla is perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking and snorkeling.
What to Do at La Jolla Cove:
- Kayak Tours: Paddle through the La Jolla Sea Caves and keep an eye out for sea lions, dolphins, and leopard sharks.
- Snorkeling: Discover the rich marine life in the La Jolla Underwater Ecological Reserve, where you can swim alongside colorful garibaldi fish, rays, and even sea turtles. Learn everything you need to know about snorkeling in La Jolla in our guide.
- Seal Watching: Walk over to Children’s Pool Beach, where you can watch seals lounging on the rocks.
Pro Tip: Book your kayak or snorkeling tour in advance to ensure a spot, as these tours fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Lunch / Brunch: Post-Beach Fuel
After your morning of adventure, grab brunch/ lunch in La Jolla. There’s no shortage of options to eat at La Jolla. Whether you’re looking for healthy bites, seafood, or comfort food, La Jolla has you covered!
A few favorites:
- Shorehouse Kitchen – Want to keep it relatively healthy, but supercharge your caffeine intake? Shorehouse Kitchen offers delicious options like their Seared Salmon & Baby Kale Benedict.
- Sugar and Scribe – Cure your sweet tooth with a pastry and a coffee at Sugar and Scribe.
- Better Buzz – Head on over to Better Buzz for a good caffeine buzz and a breakfast sandwich to wash it down.
- The Cottage – For a delicious breakfast in a sleepy little restaurant, head over to The Cottage. They only use the best and the freshest ingredients in every meal.
- Parakeet Cafe – This healthy California style restaurant has it all, and it’s prepared with love. Some of their popular dishes are an all-day menu with avocado toast with beet cured salmon, quinoa bowls, turmeric lattes and probiotic mimosas.
Afternoon: Pacific Beach and Belmont Park
In the afternoon, head south to Pacific Beach, one of San Diego’s most popular beach towns. With its laid-back vibe, wide sandy beaches, and lively boardwalk, it’s a great spot to spend a relaxing afternoon.
Things to Do in Pacific Beach:
- Rent a Beach Cruiser: Ride along the Ocean Front Walk to take in the views of the ocean and beach life.
- Hit the Beach: Spend some time sunbathing, swimming, or simply watching the surfers catch waves from the pier.
For a fun and casual lunch, stop by Kono’s Cafe for their legendary breakfast burritos. If seafood is what you’re craving, try Oscar’s Mexican Seafood for some of the best fish tacos in San Diego.
Once you’ve soaked up the sun, head over to Belmont Park, a beachfront amusement park in Mission Beach. Ride the classic Giant Dipper Roller Coaster, play arcade games, or explore the mini-golf course for a family-friendly afternoon.
Belmont Park Highlights:
- Giant Dipper Roller Coaster: A historic wooden roller coaster with ocean views.
- Mini Golf & Arcade: Perfect for some lighthearted fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
- FlowRider Wave Machine: Test your skills on this unique wave machine for indoor surfing.
Evening: Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
End your final day in San Diego by catching one of the city’s famous sunsets at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. This rugged stretch of coastline is the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting brilliant hues of orange, pink, and purple across the ocean.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot on the cliffs and bring a blanket and snacks for a casual picnic while watching the sunset.
If you’re up for a little adventure, take one of the walking trails along the cliffs for breathtaking views of the coastline and opportunities to capture stunning photos.
Additional Tips for Your 2 Days in San Diego
- Getting Around: San Diego is a large, spread-out city, so renting a car will give you the most flexibility. However, Uber, Lyft, and the San Diego Trolley are convenient options for getting around.
- Best Time to Visit: San Diego boasts great weather year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller.
- What to Pack: Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. If you’re visiting the beach, pack a towel and swimwear. Evenings near the coast can be chilly, so a light jacket or sweater is recommended.
Other Notable Places to Attractions in San Diego
Our 2-day itinerary includes our essentials for a short trip. If you end up having more time in the city feel free to explore these other attractions to add to your list:
- SeaWorld San Diego: Experience marine life up close with exciting shows, thrilling rides, and interactive exhibits featuring dolphins, sharks, and more.
- Ocean Beach: This laid-back beach community is perfect for those seeking a classic Southern California vibe. Enjoy surfing, strolling along the pier, or browsing through the quirky shops and restaurants.
- Mission Bay: A water sports paradise, Mission Bay offers opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
- Old Town San Diego: Step back in time in this historic area, where you’ll find preserved buildings, shops, and restaurants celebrating San Diego’s rich heritage. Sign up for an Old Town Food Tour, offering a mix of culture, history, and authentic Mexican cuisine.
- Del Mar: Known for its stunning beaches and upscale vibe, Del Mar offers beautiful oceanfront views, boutique shopping, and the famous Del Mar Racetrack, perfect for a luxurious day trip.
- Point Loma: A scenic area with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Point Loma is home to the Cabrillo National Monument and tide pools, providing a glimpse into the region’s natural and historic beauty.
- North Park: A trendy neighborhood known for its craft breweries, eclectic dining, and vibrant arts scene. A perfect spot for San Diego Brewery Tours to explore local flavors, art galleries, and unique shops.
- Coronado Beach: One of the best beaches in the country, Coronado Beach features soft sands and gentle waves, ideal for a relaxing beach day. Visit the historic Hotel del Coronado while you’re there for a touch of local history.
A Memorable 2 Days in San Diego
This 2-day itinerary in San Diego gives you a perfect mix of cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and incredible dining. Whether you’re kayaking in La Jolla, exploring the vibrant streets of Little Italy, or enjoying a peaceful sunset at Sunset Cliffs, San Diego offers something for every traveler. For a deeper dive into the city’s best spots, consider booking one of the many San Diego tours available, offering guided experiences that showcase the city’s rich history and scenic beauty. After just two days, you’ll see why this coastal city is such a beloved destination, and we’re certain you’ll be planning your next trip back!
Written by: Melissa
Melissa hails from San Jose, CA, and has been a San Diego local for five years now after a 10-year long pit stop in Los Angeles. In L.A., she began her writing career crafting digital content for a wide range of clients, including The Real Talk Show, Sharon Osbourne, Hank Azaria, Time Life, and Cardinal Financial. She’s excited to be able to use her passion for writing to introduce people to some of the best spots in San Diego, many of which she has already frequented or has on her ever-expanding list of things to do … In her spare time, she enjoys taking her puppy Milo to all of the best dog beaches in SD, grabbing a glass of wine or a cup of joe at new places, and hosting watch parties for The Bachelor/ette TV show.
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Hi, I’m Bianca, San Diego native, tour guide, and founder of So Diego. From food tours to customized private events, we provide travel tips, places to eat, and more to help you explore the city like a pro. Let us show you the best of San Diego!
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Daily Tours
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