An Exciting San Diego 2 Day Itinerary Under the Sun

In this San Diego 2 day itinerary you’ll be introduced to some of the most popular attractions in this beautiful coastal city.

Get a little bit of everything in a two day trip. This is the perfect itinerary for a weekend getaway or for any two days of the week. 

Living in SoCal my whole life, I’ve been to San Diego many times. Since I’ve experienced much of SD at this point, I’m confident I can give you the best guidance for how to plan your time here in the most efficient way possible.

If you’re wondering what to see in San Diego in 2 days, it’s all laid out in this article hour by hour. Let’s get started.

San Diego 2 Day Itinerary: Day 1

Stop #1: La Jolla Cove 

9-11:30am (2.5 hrs)

La Jolla Cove is a must-see on any San Diego itinerary. This stunning beach, nestled within sandstone cliffs, isn’t just popular – it’s the most photographed beach in the city! Here’s why it deserves a spot in this San Diego 2 day itinerary.

Picture Perfect: La Jolla Cove has breathtaking scenery. The cliffs, calm waters and abundant sea life create a picture-postcard scene.

Wildlife Encounters: Get up close to playful seals and sea lions basking on the rocks. There’s a designated area for these fascinating creatures, so observe responsibly.

Water Activities Galore: Craving adventure? La Jolla Cove offers snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, parasailing and paddleboarding. Tours are available for most activities, lasting 1-2 hours. Remember to book in advance!

Calm Waters (Mostly): The cove’s design creates a sheltered area with calm waters near the shore, perfect for swimming and relaxing. However, venturing further out can expose you to stronger currents and waves.

Snorkeling: Explore the underwater world. Closer to shore, you’ll find diverse fish species, kelp and seagrass. Visibility can vary, so check with lifeguards or tour operators for the best snorkeling conditions.

Beat the Chill: Southern California’s waters are known to be chilly. If you’re sensitive to cold temperatures, consider renting a wetsuit for a more comfortable experience.

Rinse and Relax: After enjoying the water, rinse off at the convenient public showers.

Land Activities Too: If you prefer to stay dry, relax on the beach, have a picnic, stroll along the scenic Coast Walk Trailhead or simply enjoy the views.

Hiking Alternative: For a more active adventure, consider Torrey Pines State Park, known for its beautiful hikes and stunning overlooks. While further north, it offers a less crowded experience.

Family-Friendly Fun: La Jolla Cove caters to visitors of all ages. However, keep in mind that it’s a public beach and can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.

Parking Tips: If you’re driving to La Jolla Cove, parking can be a challenge. Aim to arrive early to snag a street parking spot. Be prepared to walk a distance or pay for parking if necessary.

La Jolla Cove offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and water activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, this San Diego gem is one you should not miss.

Stop #2: La Jolla Village for Lunch 

11:30am-1pm (1.5 hrs)

At this point you might be feeling peckish after all that swimming, sunbathing, or exploring the trails.

Luckily, La Jolla Village, just a short walk from La Jolla Cove, offers a fantastic variety of lunch options. La Jolla Village is a fun place for food, entertainment, art galleries, shopping, theaters, a library and museum. 

For lunch, here are some eateries I recommend:

Havana Kitchen – Immerse yourself in authentic Cuban cuisine with their classic Cubano sandwiches, succulent roast pork platter, tempting empanadas and delicious plantains.

Sugar and Scribe – For breakfast lovers, this haven offers a delightful spread of pancakes, eggs, skillets and eggs benedict alongside lunch options. Be prepared for a potential wait due to their popularity.

Feel free to try somewhere else or drive toward Balboa Park and eat at these places:

Common Stock – If you’re craving comfort food, this New American eatery offers crispy fried chicken, delicious brussels sprouts and a variety of tasty salads, sandwiches and appetizers.

Goi Cuon – Goi Cuon serves up healthy Vietnamese fare like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), fresh spring rolls and vermicelli bowls. They also cater to vegetarian and vegan preferences.

Parking Tip: Take advantage of Balboa Park’s free parking! With 11 parking lots offering free spaces (including accessible and handicap parking), you can save some money and avoid parking hassles.

Drive and park 

1pm-1:30pm (allow 30 min to drive and park)

Stop #3: Balboa Park 

1:30pm-5:30pm (4hrs)

With 2 days in San Diego, Balboa Park is a must-visit destination with over 1,200 acres of museums, stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, vibrant shops and captivating performing arts.

There’s so much to see and do here. You won’t be able to see all of it, but there’s definitely a lot you can experience in several hours. 

Balboa Park offers a wealth of free experiences:

Immerse yourself in nature: Explore the many free gardens (excluding the Japanese Friendship Garden and Botanical Garden at the San Diego Zoo). Several trails wind through the park, perfect for a scenic walk.

Embrace the architecture: Stroll through the park and admire the beautiful Spanish Colonial Revival buildings.

Discover diverse cultures: Visit the House of Pacific Relations Cottages, Spanish Village Art Center or United Nations Building, all free to enter.

Pack a picnic: Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch amidst the park’s beauty.

Paid Options: Balboa Park is home to a multitude of museums, each offering a unique experience. With limited time, consider choosing just one museum to fully appreciate its depth. Several museums are quite large, taking hours to explore. Here’s a glimpse into some paid options:

• Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum – recommended
• San Diego Air & Space Museum – recommended
• San Diego Model Railroad Museum – recommended
• San Diego Natural History Museum – recommended
• Centro Cultural de la Raza
• Fleet Science Center
• ICA San Diego
• Mingei International Museum
• Museum of Photographic Arts at the San Diego Museum of Art
• Museum of Us
• San Diego Automotive Museum
• San Diego History Center
• The San Diego Museum of Art
• The Veterans Museum at Balboa Park
• WorldBeat Center
• Comic-Con Museum – not included in the Explorer Pass options
• San Diego Zoo – not included in the Explorer Pass options
• San Diego Safari Park – not included in the Explorer Pass options

For all ages, these museums are sure to spark curiosity and ignite imaginations:

Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum: Immerse yourselves in the tranquility of a Japanese garden, complete with a koi pond and traditional tea house.

San Diego Air & Space Museum: Explore the wonders of flight and space exploration with interactive exhibits and amazing aircraft.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum: Take a captivating journey through miniature worlds, filled with intricate model trains and detailed landscapes.

San Diego Natural History Museum: Uncover the secrets of the natural world, from dinosaurs and dioramas to interactive exhibits.

To maximize your experience, consider whether you’re more of an art enthusiast or science seeker. This will help you narrow down what you’d like to see in the allotted time.

If you’re into the arts, you might be interested in their performing arts centers. Check their calendars for shows and ticket prices if you want to catch a performance.

If you feel you can visit multiple museums, consider the Balboa Park Explorer Pass (Limited Pass).

However, with only 4 hours, focusing on one museum and exploring the park’s gardens and architecture might be more ideal. It would certainly be my preference.

Another way to spend your time here is to take a walking tour. I recommend this one if you’re not interested in seeing museums and would just like to experience and appreciate the park on a leisurely level.

The tour allows you to see the best of Balboa Park, learn its history and see some of their best architecture. Plus, you get a free coffee!

Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to head over to Little Italy for an authentic Italian meal. 

Drive and park. You can find metered street parking or possibly a parking structure. 

5:30pm-6pm (30 min)

Stop #4: Little Italy for Dinner 

6pm-8pm (2 hrs)

No San Diego itinerary is complete without a visit to Little Italy, the largest of its kind in the United States.

This vibrant neighborhood has a delightful array of restaurants, shops, cafes, art galleries and hotels, all infused with Italian charm.

Little Italy offers a smorgasbord of Italian culinary experiences. With so many great options it can be a tad overwhelming.

Here are some things to consider when choosing your perfect Italian meal: 

Do you have time to linger over a leisurely meal, or are you on a tighter schedule? Many restaurants offer charming outdoor seating with heaters, perfect for enjoying the San Diego weather.

If you prefer indoor dining, especially on weekends, consider making a reservation or being prepared for a potential wait.

Here are some restaurant recommendations:

Ristorante Illando – This hidden gem offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with classic Italian fare like pasta, salads, pizzas and an extensive wine list.

Vinarius Wine Bar– Enjoy delicious Italian fare alongside a carefully curated wine list.

Civico 1845 – This spot caters to both traditional and vegan palates, specializing in Southern Italian cuisine with a focus on sustainable practices.

Saving the Sweetest for Last:

Extraordinary Desserts – Planning a dedicated dessert stop is a must! Extraordinary Desserts, with its two locations, offers a haven for sweet tooths.

This larger location, closest to Little Italy, features a dazzling array of cakes, pies, cookies, cupcakes, bars and more, with gluten-free and vegan options available.

Consider walking to Extraordinary Desserts from Little Italy. Parking, especially during peak times, can be a challenge.

For a twist on Little Italy, consider a food tour! This one gives you many tastings as well as history and background on this historic area.

Tour Option: Little Italy Food Tour

Drive and park:

9pm-9:30pm (30 min)

Stop #5: Gaslamp Quarter 

9:30pm+ 

After indulging your sweet tooth, prepare for an exciting evening in the Gaslamp Quarter. This historic district, located south of Downtown San Diego, offers a vibrant nightlife scene.

Gaslamp Quarter parking requires a fee. Both surface lots and parking structures are available. Be prepared for higher parking costs in this area.

If you’re still brimming with energy after a day of exploration, the Gaslamp Quarter beckons! This historic district pulsates with nightlife, offering a vibrant mix of theaters, bars, clubs, and lounges.

Whether you crave live music, a sophisticated cocktail, or a thrilling show, the Gaslamp Quarter caters to all tastes.

Find your nightlife niche at one of these places:

Moonshine Flats – For live music and dancing, Moonshine Flats is a guaranteed good time for country music fans, featuring live bands, line dancing and a spacious dance floor! It’s one of my favorite places to go to when I’m in San Diego.

The Shout! House – The Shout! House piano bar offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Talented pianists entertain with a diverse range of music, taking requests and engaging the crowd.

Prohibition– Step back in time at Prohibition, a 1920s-themed speakeasy lounge. Enjoy live music, craft cocktails, and a touch of intimacy in this low-lit setting.

While reservations aren’t required, arriving before 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays is recommended and a dress code is enforced.

Know Before You Go:

• Gaslamp Quarter parking incurs a fee. Surface lots and parking structures are available, but be prepared for higher costs compared to other areas.
• Cover charges are common at some establishments, while others offer free entry.

Day 1 of this 2 days in San Diego itinerary has taken you through iconic San Diego experiences, from the beauty of the coast to the cultural heart of Little Italy. But as you’ve discovered, a single day barely scratches the surface! 

San Diego 2 Day Itinerary: Day 2 (Option 1)

Stop #1: Sea World

Full Day

Explore the Ocean World at SeaWorld

San Diego’s SeaWorld offers a fun-filled day for marine life enthusiasts. This Mission Bay Park destination is packed with shows, rides, educational experiences and animal encounters.

While some criticize keeping animals in captivity, SeaWorld is committed to animal welfare and conservation efforts. Here, you can learn a lot about ocean life through interactive exhibits and presentations.

Operating Hours

SeaWorld’s hours vary, typically opening at 10am and closing between 5pm and 10pm depending on the season. Aim to arrive early, especially on days with earlier closing times to maximize your experience.

What to Expect

Thrilling rides, captivating animal shows and informative tours are just a few highlights of SeaWorld. Witness the grace of dolphins, the power of orcas and the playful antics of sea lions and otters.

Explore diverse habitats teeming with fascinating creatures – from majestic whales and sleek sharks to colorful fish and intriguing invertebrates.

For an unforgettable close-up encounter with these amazing animals, consider one of the park’s exclusive experiences (additional fees apply).

Upgrade Your Experience

Enhance your visit with VIP packages offering express ride access, delicious all-day dining options, convenient reserved parking, and exclusive animal interactions.

Remember to check for online discounts and deals before purchasing tickets.

If all this doesn’t excite you and SeaWorld is not how you’d like to spend your second day in San Diego, consider this alternative itinerary.

San Diego 2 Day Itinerary: Day 2 (Option 2)

Stop #1: Old Town San Diego

10am – 12pm (2 hrs) or stay until 1pm if you have lunch here.

Old Town San Diego, the crown jewel of California’s birthplace, has a vibrant past woven from diverse cultures.

Before Europeans arrived, the Kumeyaay people thrived here for over 10,000 years, leaving their mark on the land.

Spanish colonization, followed by Mexican and American influences, shaped Old Town into a unique blend.

Today, the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park serves as a living museum, meticulously preserving historic buildings like chapels, schools, and even a courthouse.

A Glimpse into the Past

Explore the rich tapestry of Old Town’s museums, most with free admission! Delve into the Kumeyaay story at the Serra Museum, or step back in time at restored homes and businesses.

A must-see, though not for the faint of heart, is the Whaley House, just outside the park. Renowned as one of America’s most haunted houses, it beckons ghost hunters and curious visitors alike with its spooky tales and purported paranormal activity.

Take a day or evening tour to learn more about its fascinating (and potentially spectral) residents.

Fueling Your Explorations

After spending some time in historical immersion, indulge in a delicious lunch at one of Old Town’s many restaurants.

Bhojan Griha – Savor the exotic flavors of Nepal and India, from savory samosas and momo dumplings to aromatic curries and fluffy naan.

Old Town Tequila Factory – Experience the essence of San Diego with classic Mexican fare like sizzling fajitas, flavorful tacos and cheesy enchiladas. Be aware they are only open for lunch on the weekends.

Trattoria Don Pietro – This upscale restaurant offers Sicilian specialties with a focus on delectable pastas and pizzas.

Parking and Transportation

One of the best parts about Old Town San Diego is the free parking. I suggest you park in one of their free lots and then take the MTS Trolly Light Rail for the remainder of the day. 

About the MTS Trolley

• Operates on 3 main lines from 5am to midnight
• Peak hours run every 7 min and off-peak hours every 30 min.
• Fares are $2.50 one way or $6 for an unlimited day pass
• Discounts available for seniors, the disabled, those on Medicare and youth under 18
• Use ‘Pronto San Diego’ app or the Pronto card to load with funds and tap to ride. Scan the app at boarding area validators 

 

Utilizing the MTS Trolley, from Old Town Station San Diego take the UC San Diego Blue Line to Santa Fe Depot Station and then walk to Seaport Village.

12pm-12:30pm Drive and park

Stop #2: Seaport Village

12:30pm-2pm (1.5 hrs)

An alternative option for lunch is Seaport Village. Indulge your taste buds at Seaport Village, where a world of culinary options awaits.

From casual cafes to upscale eateries, you’ll find the perfect spot to satisfy your cravings. Grab a refreshing drink, savor a cup of coffee, or cool down with some ice cream.

Refuel for your shopping spree or simply enjoy a delightful meal with a view.

Fun for All Ages

Keep the little ones entertained with a ride on the charming carousel or be captivated by the talents of street performers.

And for everyone, checkout the scenic waterfront! Take a stroll along the pier and breathe in the fresh ocean air, soaking up the panoramic views.

Food Tour Option

If you like food tours, why not spice up your Seaport Village experience? This food tour includes lunch which is composed of 4 local food samples and a ride on the carousel. It also stops at some of the major attractions in the area.

If you like this option, however, the tour only happens at 11am so you would have to cut your visit to Old Town San Diego short.

Parking and Transportation

If you rent a car, Seaport Village offers convenient access for cars. Parking is either paid by the hour or you can get a discounted rate by frequenting one of the businesses in Seaport Village. 

To get to the next stop, Coronado Island, consider a fun alternative: the Coronado Ferry!

Departing hourly from Broadway Pier or the San Diego Convention Center, the ferry whisks you away to Coronado Island in style. Enjoy the breathtaking views and skip the parking woes altogether.

From Seaport Village you can walk to Broadway Pier to catch the ferry. Each way is under $10. 

If you are driving, there is free parking on Ocean Ave. or in the residential areas on Coronado Island. There is also 2 hour metered parking on Orange Avenue. The meters are free on Sundays and holidays.

2pm-2:30pm If driving, allow 30 minutes to drive and park. If you take the ferry it is a 15 min ride. 

Stop #3: Coronado Island 

2:30-8:30pm (6 hrs)

Coronado Island, a captivating peninsula offering the charm of an island, is a San Diego gem. Its crown jewel is the iconic Hotel del Coronado, a Victorian masterpiece established in 1888.

While the Victorian section undergoes renovations until 2025, you can still experience the hotel’s grandeur by staying in one of its beautiful villas or cottages (be prepared for a luxurious price tag!).

I allocated 6 hours here because there are a variety of things to do during the day through the evening. 

Getting from Coronado Ferry Landing Park to Coronado Beach or Hotel del Coronado

• You can walk which will take approximately 35 min to get to Coronado Beach or Hotel del Coronado.
• Take the MTS Bus line 904 or 901 which will take about 26 min and cost a few bucks. It doesn’t save a lot of time, but if you just can’t walk 35 min, this is the next cheapest option.
• The third option is to use Uber/Lyft or a taxi which will be the most expensive but fastest option.
• An alternative option is to rent a bike or a scooter. This could be a fun way to experience the island in a quicker manner.

Coronado Beach

No visit is complete without a visit to Coronado Beach, just northwest of the Hotel del Coronado.

This pristine haven is perfect for a relaxing stroll, sunbathing or simply watching the breathtaking sunset paint the sky.

Outdoor activities at the beach such as riding bikes, kayaking, paddleboarding or just relaxing on the beach are great ways to spend your afternoon while it’s still light out. For golfers, check out the Coronado Golf Course. 

Coronado Island is also a great place to watch the sunset. So find a spot by the beach and watch the sun come down over the horizon. 

Evening Activities

For a delightful evening, explore Coronado’s options beyond the beach. Relax in one of the charming parks, catch a performance at the Village Theatre, or enjoy a unique outdoor movie experience on the Hotel del Coronado beach (dinner included!).

Checking out the famous Coronado Hotel is a must. Did you know that it’s said to be haunted? The iconic white exterior with a red roof hotel is a legendary San Diego landmark. 

Culinary Delights

Coronado offers a diverse culinary scene. Indulge in fine dining at the Hotel del Coronado, explore the restaurants lining Orange Avenue or savor the waterfront ambiance at Coronado Ferry Landing with its mix of restaurants and shops.

Here are some restaurant recommendations:

Garage Buona Forchetta – This lively Italian eatery has an impressive pizza selection, build-your-own pasta options and daily specials.

The quirky garage theme featuring a vintage car adds to the fun vibe. They also have a bar and a small Italian market.

Little Frenchie – This charming French bistro satisfies with brunch and dinner options featuring classic French dishes like nicoise salad, French onion soup, escargot and decadent entrees like duck and beef bourguignon. Be prepared for a higher price point.

Bluewater Grill – For seafood lovers, Bluewater Grill is a haven. The boathouse-themed ambiance complements the extensive menu featuring clam chowder, various fish options, scallops, oysters and more. Landlubbers can also find non-seafood options.

Where to Stay in San Diego

The best areas to stay are Mission Beach, La Jolla and Coronado in terms of family friendly and safety. But Little Italy and Gaslamp can be good as well if you’d rather be around the hustle and bustle.

Here are a couple hotel recommendations.

A second recommendation is Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn. With their Hawaiian vibe and tropical theme. It’s quieter and sits away from the busy downtown area. It’s best known for its:

• Relaxing tropical atmosphere
• Spacious rooms
• Friendly attentive staff

San Diego 2 Day Itinerary: FAQ

Are 2 days enough in San Diego?

A San Diego 2 day trip allows for experiencing a few attractions. If you plan to visit an amusement park or a museum, this will take up a lot of your time and you won’t get to see as much.

There are a lot of things to do in San Diego so if two days is all you have, be sure to get in what peaks your interest the most. I would recommend at least 3 days to get a good feel for this beautiful city. 

Is San Diego or LA better for vacation?

San Diego has a more laid back vibe. It’s a coastal city so many activities revolve around the water. Los Angeles is huge and can require a lot of driving depending on where you want to go.

There is more variety in terms of activities in LA, but San Diego offers a more relaxing experience. So it really just depends on how you like to vacation and the attractions you want to see.

What is the cheapest month to visit San Diego?

The cheapest month to visit San Diego is in the winter, so January or February. These months have cooler weather, are more rainy and attract less people. With less demand, prices are lower. 

Is San Diego as crowded as LA?

No, San Diego is less crowded than LA. Los Angeles is just huge so there are a lot more people. But don’t get me wrong.

There are still a lot of people in San Diego and depending on where you are going, it can draw large crowds if it’s a popular place. 

Is San Diego a walkable city?

San Diego is not a walkable city. San Diego covers a lot of area so to get from one place to another you need a car or some other mode of transportation to get you from one place to another. 

Should I go to San Diego or Santa Monica?

In my personal opinion, I would choose San Diego. There are just more things to do in San Diego than Santa Monica.

Both are by the beach, but San Diego has more fun things to do. It will be less crowded than Santa Monica and you just can’t beat their beaches.

What month is San Diego Zoo free?

Kids (11 and younger) get free admission with a paying adult to the San Diego Zoo in October all month long! 

Why is San Diego California so popular?

San Diego is known for their beautiful beaches, mild weather, theme parks, museums, Mexican food, craft beer and surfing. It’s a great place to visit and vacation as you won’t run out of things to do here!

Is San Diego OK without a car?

San Diego is difficult to get around without a car, but it’s not impossible. There is public transportation such as the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) which is their trolley or train system that runs on 3 lines. 

You can also take the bus which goes to more locations. Other options are the Old Town Trolley Tours which has a hop-on hop-off system with stops at many of San Diego’s popular attractions. 

For shorter distances, opt for renting a bike or scooter which will provide some fresh air and maybe a little exercise. 

Lastly, using rideshare services or taxis will get you from place to place without having to drive yourself and get exactly where you want to go when you want to.

There are many options for getting around San Diego without a car, but it will take some planning if using a public transportation method. 

With just two days in San Diego, any of these transportation options will do.

Is it safe to walk downtown San Diego at night?

Walking around downtown San Diego in busy, touristy areas is relatively safe. Just avoid walking alone and in non-busy areas at night.

There are some areas in the downtown area where the homeless live. These areas may not be safe so exercise caution. 

San Diego 2 Day Itinerary: Final Thoughts

Whether it’s a weekend in San Diego or several days, there is a lot to see and do to fill up your day.

Check out my other San Diego itineraries which include other San Diego hot spots like Point Loma’s Cabrillo National Monument, USS Midway Museum, San Diego Zoo, Belmont Park and Legoland:

San Diego 1 Day Itinerary

San Diego Itinerary 3 Days

San Diego 4 Day Itinerary

And just in case, seeing that LA is close by (2 hours away), here are some of my Los Angeles itineraries:

1 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

3 Day Los Angeles Itinerary