In-Depth Guide to a San Diego 3 Day Itinerary

Wondering how many days to stay in San Diego for the ultimate fun-filled getaway? Never underestimate the number of memory-making experiences you can pack into a single long weekend. There’s no shortage of variety from outdoor activities to city life in an area like America’s Finest City. Three days in San Diego is plenty to experience all the must-dos. 

Are you still questioning whether visiting San Diego or Los Angeles would make a better trip for your long weekend? The stars of southern California both boast delightfully mild weather and long stretches of beachy landscape. Nonetheless, we’ll vote in favor of San Diego this time, thanks to its smaller population, lower crime rate, and less traffic. In addition, there’s simply more room to breathe! 

Now that you’ve nailed down your long weekend destination, it’s time to pack your carry-on suitcase and hop on the plane! Read on for the best ways to spend three days in San Diego. 

Day 1

Before thinking about how many days should you spend in San Diego, consider finding a comfortable hotel where you can recharge and rejuvenate before and after your daily adventures first.

We recommend arriving the night before and settling into a fluffy pile of pillows and blankets. With this, you got a good night’s rest to prepare for your first day in the city. Then, it’s time to start day one bright and early in downtown San Diego! 

Speaking of a good night’s rest, here are some of our top picks for places to get some serious relaxation and shuteye, completing your 3 day in San Diego getaway:

• Riviera Oaks Resort & Racquet Club
• Welk Resort San Diego
• The Sofia Hotel
• Ramada Suites by Wyndham San Diego
• Holiday Inn Express San Diego SeaWorld – Beach Area
• Hilton Garden Inn San Diego Old Town/SeaWorld Area
• Hilton San Diego Mission Valley
• Hotel del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton

9:00 am: Coffee

Once you arise from your slumber, kick things off with coffee and breakfast at Brickyard Coffee. Fuel up before you start your first day and cross off everything on your San Diego 3 day itinerary!

One of the neighborhood coffee shops is located by the Seaport Village Trolley stop and has a large patio that pairs nicely with the great food and coffee.

Pro Tip: The Bagel Melt or the Acai bowl are our top breakfast picks. Yum! Lastly, grab a cup of joe, and you’ll be good to go. 

9:30 am: USS Midway Museum

Now that the coffee has you wide awake get ready to hit the pavement and start sightseeing. The first in this guide on what to do in San Diego for 3 days is the USS Midway Museum. 

A 15-minute walk will get you to your first attraction, where you’ll learn the history of this retired U.S. Navy, the longest aircraft carrier in the 20th century.  

Keep this tip in mind when visiting the area: Make sure to set aside about three hours to explore the entire maritime museum.  

12:30 pm: Lunch and Coronado Island

Next, your museum tour is bound to work up your appetite. Time for lunch! If you’re starving, The Fish Market is right next door to the museum. Indulge in a culinary delight during your 3 day San Diego vacation at this exceptional restaurant that serves the freshest fish and other seafood. 

The Fish Market’s convenient patio overlooks a stunning view of the San Diego Bay. You may want to bring a jacket if you opt to sit outside since it can get breezy on the bay. In addition, make a reservation to guarantee your spot!

After lunch, get a ferry ticket and journey to Coronado Island. Keep in mind that the ferry leaves every hour, on the hour, at the dock next to the USS Midway. It’s a quick 15-minute ride, and you’ll get incredible views of the working Navy ships, million-dollar homes, and the San Diego skyline along the way.

Once in Coronado, promenade around the Ferry Landing, where you’ll find great restaurants, shops, and galleries. Experience Coronado in a whole new way when you take a kayak tour! Meander along the city skyline and float beneath the famous Coronado Bridge.

2:30 pm: Hotel del Coronado

You absolutely have to stop by the Hotel del Coronado during your time on the island. It’s an iconic, Victorian resort in Coronado lovingly known as “The Del.”

Fun Fact: History buffs will feel right at home here. Built in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado became a National Historic Landmark in 1977. 

To get there, you can take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. If you’re there in the summer (June through September), take advantage of the Free Summer Shuttle! 

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Pro Tip: Since San Diego’s attractions are spread out all over the city, getting a rental car may be ideal to go the distance. However, the city does boast a pretty good public transportation system, so this is another way to navigate the area.

At “The Del,” walk around the premises and explore the various shops, as well as Coronado Beach. The Sun Deck is a great place to relax, grab a snack, and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views.

A stroll down Orange Avenue and Ocean Boulevard will give you a chance to soak in the atmosphere of the neighborhood. There is beauty around every corner of Coronado! So, unveil its hidden gems that will surely captivate you no matter how many days for San Diego.

5:00 pm: Happy Hour

Find a spot on Stake’s Fireside Patio for happy hour and settle in for a spectacular sunset. Then, delight your taste buds with appetizer and drink specials. If you hit this chophouse and bar on Sunday or Wednesday from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm, you’re in for a live music treat. 

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You can also make your way to Knotty Barrel or Draft for some craft beer or beer-centric cooking. Click here to view some of the draft South Mission photos and see what awaits you.  

Afterward, enjoy a quick dinner on Coronado and head back to your hotel to get some extra rest, or hit the town for a longer dinner surrounded by an exciting nightlife atmosphere.  

8:00 pm: Dinner in Gaslamp Quarter

Dinner in the Gaslamp Quarter is both fun and delicious, a few of the reasons why it should be included in your San Diego itineraries. Some of our favorite restaurants in the area are Rustic Root, Full Moon, and The Smoking Gun.

After dinner, walk around and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance. Strolling 5th Avenue, the epicenter of the Gaslamp Quarter is a must. You’re bound to run into a bar or restaurant with live music, dancing, sports, or entertainment.

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Alternatively, you could visit a secret speakeasy-style bar, such as Prohibition. For a truly vintage vibe, visit on Friday or Saturday, when the dress code is enforced. Adorn your best flapper dress or zoot suit to look the part!

If you’d prefer to leave the costume at home, find a bar stool at Ginger’s, Henry’s Pub, or Side Bar instead. No matter how many nights in San Diego, the city’s after-dark scene promises to leave you wanting more. 

Day 2

Day two is equal parts serene nature and happening town life. Still wondering how to spend 3 days in San Diego? Start the adventure among the flora and fauna, then head to a buzzing scene full of culture and good food. Meet your favorite animals at the zoo, explore quaint city streets, and dine on delectable seafood.

9:00 am: Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo

It’s time to get up and at ’em again! Wake up early, then go straight to Balboa Park for a refreshing morning walk among the trees and gardens. Here, you will find many museums such as the Air and Space Museum, the Museum of Man, and the San Diego History Center. If you get hungry, the park has several eateries to choose from. 

The iconic San Diego Zoo is also located here, so don’t forget to add it to your San Diego itinerary. Plan to spend plenty of time exploring all that this zoo has to offer. It takes about three hours to see it all. Use our tips for visiting the San Diego Zoo to maximize your time there.

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Photo Alert: The San Diego Zoo is home to many endangered species, such as tigers. Snap a selfie with these rare, beautiful animals!

1:00 pm: Old Town San Diego

Let’s kick off your adventure by driving to Old Town, tagged “the birthplace of California,” and discover the rich culture of this historic state park. Visit original adobe homes, one of San Diego’s oldest cemeteries, and America’s most haunted house. Don’t miss experiencing these attractions for thrilling fun during your 3 day itinerary in San Diego.

Hopefully, you’ve been saving your appetite all morning! There are many restaurants here, many of which serve up vibrantly flavorful Mexican food. Check out Café Coyote, Casa Guadalajara, or Fiesta de Reyes.

4:00 pm: Mission Bay/Beach

Make your weekend in San Diego an extraordinary one with a beach trip. Just 10 minutes away from Old Town, you’ll find a laid-back beach culture at Mission Beach. Rent a bike, cruise through the streets, or learn to stand up paddleboard. There’s even a mini amusement park filled with entertaining rides and games. Gazing at the sunset from one of the coastal bluffs is nothing short of spectacular as well.

Photo Alert: The beach and boardwalk are quintessential San Diego landmarks. They’re the best spots to snap a picture-perfect sunset!

Before you know it, it’ll be time for some evening noms. There are many eateries to choose from in the area, so you’ll have no trouble satisfying your taste buds throughout your 3 day itinerary San Diego! For some of the best Mission Bay views, grab a bite at Barefoot Bar & Grill. For the freshest seafood, get a table at Sportsmen’s Seafood.  

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Stay after dinner and watch Mission Bay transform into a breezy nightlife paradise. There’s no need to dress up for this casual yet lively scene. Flip flops, shorts, and sundresses are all welcome! 

Pro Tip: Alternatively, ditch Mission Bay right after dinner and take a quick 20-minute drive to Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a 3 to 4-mile drive to Ocean Beach or Point Loma, where you’ll see the Cabrillo National Monument. 

Day 3

On the final day of your San Diego trip, it’s time to head up north to cross off the ultimate experiences from your San Diego vacation itinerary. So pack a swimsuit and get ready to explore the gorgeous landscapes along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. North County is a jaw-dropper!

10:00 am: Self Realization Fellowship Meditation Garden

Take the I-5 freeway to Encinitas and go straight to the Self Realization Fellowship Meditation Gardens. These gardens are on a cliff overlooking a sweeping view of the Pacific. Take in the views and fresh air of this gorgeously scenic location.

Next, drive north to the town of Encinitas. Stop by Pannikin to fuel up with some coffee or tea and mingle among the locals as you sip your drink. This trip may inspire you to create your own travel guide San Diego City, featuring delightful coffee shops and hand-picked attractions along the road. 

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Afterward, it’s time for the beach! Moonlight State Beach is a popular choice. If you walk along the beach, you’re sure to find an excellent area for basking in the warm San Diego sun. 

2:00 pm: Torrey Pines Natural Reserve

After you’re glowing from your time laying out in the sun, it’s time to hit the road and cruise down the ever-popular Pacific Coast Highway, also referred to as Highway 1 or PCH. 

Roll down the windows and get ready to pass by the surfing town of Cardiff, Solana Beach, and Del Mar before you arrive at Torrey Pines Natural Reserve. Hike the Torrey Pines State trails or visit the Lodge at Torrey Pines to indulge in a gourmet, farm-to-table meal.

If you opt to skip Torrey Pines, visit the village areas of the beach communities located just before the reserve instead. The Cedros Avenue Design District in Solana Beach is a great shopping destination. The Del Mar Plaza is a great place to stop for lunch.

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Alternatively, drive to La Jolla for great shopping and galleries. Keep an eye out for seals or sea lions laying out on the coastline here! The tide pools at La Jolla Cove are teeming with wildlife wonder, too. La Jolla is home to a few other great tide pools to check out, like Dike Rock, Shell Beach, and South Casa Beach.

6:00 pm: Windansea Beach

Windansea Beach, located in La Jolla, is a favorite haunt of local surfers. It’s best left to those skilled at the sport, however, so simply sit back and take in the breathtaking view if you’re a surfing novice. 
This is a great spot to watch the sunset. In addition, stay on the lookout for the humble yet beloved Surf Shack. With its charm and vibes, Windansea Beach leaves you longing for 4 days in San Diego to bask in its beauty.

7:30 pm: Dinner in La Jolla

As your time in San Diego comes to a close, our last day itinerary ensures you end on a high note.

Have a dinner in La Jolla. Dining at the Mediterranean Room in the La Valencia Hotel is a must for tourists. Fantastic seasonal dishes are spiced up with a great view and live music.

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Splurge on the Shawarma Spiced Octopus, or keep it lighter with the Sunchoke & Heirloom Tomato Bisque. Then, go ahead and treat yourself to dessert — it’s your last day San Diego itinerary of vacation, after all! The Dark Chocolate Gateaux and Toffee Rum Cake are both absolutely delectable.

How will you Spend Three days in San Diego?

In a perfect world, you’d probably live in this gorgeous city, maybe spend an entire week, or at least create a San Diego 4 day itinerary. Unfortunately, a three day trip is just a tease. Nonetheless, three days are better than none! Whether you seek natural wonders or cultural hotspots, this San Diego travel guide will lead you to unforgettable experiences. 

It’s possible to pack your long weekend in San Diego itinerary with a substantial taste of the City in Motion. From iconic tourist spots like the USS Midway Museum and the San Diego Zoo to beautiful nature views found at locations like Coronado Island and the Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, this city truly has it all.

What Do You Plan to do During your Three Days in San Diego?

Comment below with your travel plans!