San Diego, CA

Less than an hour's drive from Tijuana, Mexico, San Diego offers an irresistible blend of year-round perfect weather and endless adventures. This coastal paradise serves up authentic Mexican meals and world-class attractions – from the renowned San Diego Zoo to the playful joy of Legoland. Watch Navy SEAL's train on beautiful Coronado Island, catch horse races at historic Del Mar Thoroughbread Club, or sail into the sunset on a private charter. Bike along scenic waterfront paths, explore the charming streets of La Jolla, or step back in time aboard the USS Midway Aircraft carrier Museum. The Gaslamp Quarter pulses with energy in the evening, its Victorian architecture housing some of the city's best dining and nightlife. San Diego has something to offer everyone in your family...watching sea lions on the shores of La Jolla, savoring fish tacos in Old Town, or using San Diego as your launchpad for a quick trip to Los Angeles, this vibrant city delivers an unforgettable Southern California experience that keeps visitors coming back for more.

6 Must Do Moments (→)

Must Do Moment #1: Sail San Diego!

Charter a sailboat through Sail San Diego. The price was reasonable, and it made our trip. They also do public sails. Link included for more information

Try to go sailing at sunset

Take the kids!

I wasn't sure about sailing with young kids but I've never seen them smile and laugh so much on any other excursion or activity

There is nothing like sailing at sunset

Must Do Moment #2: Explore the San Diego Marina

This is the view from our balcony at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. This is my favorite hotel to stay at in San Diego. Link included for more information. The prices are very reasonable

Must Do Moment #3: Visit the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier San Diego Museum

There is a lot to see in this museum and it's great for kids and adults alike. Link provided below for more information.

Must Do Moment #4: Visit the Hotel Del Coronado

This hotel sits on Coronado island a long bridge ride away from San Diego. It's one of the few hotels with a beautiful stretch of beach. Keep in mind the ocean water is still very cold even with the perfect San Diego temperatures.

Dessert at hotel Del

This is the message in a bottle dessert at Serea, oceanfront at the hotel Del Coronado. Link provided below for more info

Must Do Moment #5: Visit Sea World

With a quick trip to Sea World you can scream shark without the fear of being in the water. Our kids loved the shark encounter

The best show at Sea World

Work you day at the park around this. You don't want to miss it

The Dolphin Adventures stage

Must Do Moment #6: The hotel splurge of San Diego area

This boutique hotel, Rancho Valencia, sits in a gated property with individual casitas they offer the utmost of privacy. The restaurant is amazing too.

Must Do Moment #7: Visit Legoland

We didn't stay at the Legoland Hotel but kids inside looked happy. I would recommend the Westin Carlsbad as the best place if you want to visit Legoland and San Deigo

Legoland

This place is truly amazing. We were blown away by the Lego creations and the rides were pretty fun too

More amazing Legoland creations

Link provided for more information

Legoland waterpark

Legoland creation!

Still can't believe this is made from Legos

Legoland full size vehicle

This actually starts up and the headlights work

Legoland Water park

Warning: you will get drenched on this ride. We wore bathing suits and changed

Soaked at Legoland

Worth the change of clothing required :)

Where to Stay

Shore House at The Del

This beachfront property is part of the Hotel Del resort, but it operates as a quieter gated oasis, with a large heated pool, private bar/restaurant and ocean-facing fire pits, all of which only Shore House residents can access.

Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

This high-rise hotel overlooks the marina and sits just behind a waterside biking and running path. They have a fabulous outdoor courtyard with a massive pool and tiki bar. We strongly recommend a high floor facing the marina

Hotel del Coronado

Location Location Location! This is one of the rare beachfront properties in San Diego. Add beach access + incredible service to its old-world charm and you will quickly understand why this is a favorite stay for so many travelers

For more hotel recommendations
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Where to Eat

Serea

For more restaurant recommendations click here

Packing List

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Getting There

You don't have to take a boat to arrive here although I highly recommend going out on one while you are here.

San Diego International Airport (SAN) is three miles northwest of downtown. This is the closest option but if you don't mind a bit of a drive you can also fly into LAX or John Wayne Airport and drive or take the train down to San Diego. The train is a really nice ride along the coastline. Several cruise ships go in and out of San Diego. You can walk from the cruise ship port to the train station in about 6 minutes. You are crossing a few streets with luggage but it's pretty easy to navigate. I did it with two little kids in tow so it's definitely doable.

Must Know Before You Go

Official Language: English

Local Currency: U.S. Dollar

Outlets: U.S. Plugs (will need an adaptor for any other plugs)

Road Rules: Traffic drives on the right side of the road (same as across the US). You need a valid driver's license to drive in California. Note that pedestrians have the right away here. Also, motorcycles can drive in between cars. You will notice them doing this a lot on the freeway so take an extra look before you change lanes.

Passport & Visa requirements: No Passport required for U.S. citizens

Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (3 hours behind New York City)

Hurricane Season: There aren't hurricanes in this area and the weather is pretty amazing year-round. The rainy season runs from December through March but it's truly bad luck if you experience rain as it happens so infrequently