San Diego Itinerary 4 Days of Mind-Blowing Fun

In this San Diego itinerary 4 days travel guide, I take the trip planning out of your hands and curate a fun and explorative itinerary full of variety.

I touch upon different popular destinations in San Diego that are must see places so you don’t miss out on the best of San Diego. 

Visiting San Diego is a must do in SoCal. I’ve been to San Diego many times and have explored a lot of what SD has to offer.

This 4 day itinerary ensures you make the most of your time and I provide the top points of interest while providing insider tips. 

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Day 1

Stop #1: La Jolla Cove

9am-11:30am (2.5 hrs)

La Jolla Cove, nestled in the northern part of San Diego, is a coastal treasure that draws visitors from far and wide. Its picturesque setting, teeming marine life and diverse water activities make it a must-visit destination.

Renowned for its stunning sandstone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, the cove is a photographer’s dream.

Whether you’re simply relaxing on the beach, watching playful seals and sea lions or exploring the underwater world, La Jolla Cove offers something for everyone.

For the adventurous, the cove is a water sports paradise. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, parasailing and paddle boarding are popular options.

Many tour operators offer guided excursions for those seeking a deeper experience. However, be aware that the water temperature can be chilly, so a wetsuit may help keep you warm.

While the cove is a sheltered haven, it’s essential to respect the ocean’s power. Conditions can change rapidly, so always check with lifeguards before venturing out.

If snorkeling, stay close to shore for the best visibility and encounter a variety of marine life.

After a day in the water, rinse off at the convenient beach showers and relax on the shore.

For those who prefer to stay dry, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Coast Walk Trailhead or simply soak up the sun while observing the local wildlife. 

With 4 days in California, La Jolla Cove is a perfect spot for families, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages.

However, popularity means crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early can help you secure parking and enjoy a less crowded experience.

If hiking is your preferred activity, consider exploring Torrey Pines State Beach or Sunset Cliffs for alternative options.

While these locations offer stunning scenery, La Jolla Cove provides a more comprehensive beach experience.

With its natural beauty, abundant wildlife and diverse activities, La Jolla Cove is an unforgettable destination that captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal charm.

Stop #2: La Jolla Village for Lunch

11:30am-1pm (1.5 hrs)

After exploring La Jolla Cove and burning off some energy, it’s time to refuel. The nearby La Jolla Village offers a delightful mix of dining options, shopping and cultural attractions.

With a variety of restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. 

Havana Kitchen – a local favorite. Their classic Cubano sandwich and flavorful roast pork platter are must-tries. 

Sugar & Scribe – a popular spot for a delicious breakfast or brunch, though be prepared for a potential wait.

Alternatively, you can continue your adventure to Balboa Park, where you’ll find ample free parking – a rarity in San Diego! 

Two lunch options to consider are:

Common Stock – satisfying American fare, including crispy fried chicken and refreshing salads.

Goi Cuon – healthier Vietnamese dishes like banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) and spring rolls.

Whether you opt for the vibrant La Jolla Village or the cultural hub of Balboa Park, you’re in for a treat. Enjoy your meal and get ready for the next part of your San Diego adventure.

At your next stop you have to give credit to Balboa Park for providing 11 free parking lots! 

Drive and park

1pm-1:30pm (30 min)

Stop #3: Balboa Park

1:30pm-6pm (4.5 hrs)

Balboa Park, a sprawling 1,200-acre oasis in the heart of San Diego, is a must-visit for any traveler. This cultural hub includes a stunning array of museums, exquisite gardens, and architectural marvels, making it a captivating destination for all ages.

While there’s enough to explore for multiple days, you can still enjoy a fulfilling visit in just a few hours.

For budget-conscious travelers, the park offers plenty of free attractions, including the beautiful Botanical Building (currently closed), the Timken Museum of Art and the vast majority of its gardens. 

You can also leisurely stroll through the park, admiring its architecture and discovering hidden gems like the House of Pacific Relations Cottages and the Spanish Village Art Center.

If museums are your passion, Balboa Park is a treasure trove. With over a dozen options to choose from, narrowing down your choices can be overwhelming.

To make the most of your time, consider focusing on one or two museums that align with your interests. But if you feel a half day in Balboa Park is not enough, you can always come back to see more since you have four days in San Diego.

The Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego Air & Space Museum, San Diego Model Railroad Museum and San Diego Natural History Museum are popular choices for families and offer a diverse range of exhibits.

While the Explorer Pass can be a good option for museum enthusiasts, it’s often more cost-effective to select individual tickets, especially if you have limited time. Or check out the Limited Pass which allows you to visit up to 4 museums in a single day.

Remember, Balboa Park is more than just museums. Take time to appreciate the park’s natural beauty, explore its charming shops and perhaps catch a live performance at one of its theaters.

After a day of exploration, treat yourself to a delicious Italian meal in nearby Little Italy.

Tour Option: Balboa Park Highlights

Drive and park

6pm-6:30pm (30 min)

Stop #4: Little Italy for Dinner

6:30pm-9pm (2.5 hrs)

San Diego’s Little Italy is a vibrant neighborhood that captures the heart of Italy in Southern California.

With its charming streets lined with restaurants, shops and art galleries, it’s a must-visit destination. Prepare your taste buds for an authentic Italian culinary adventure!

Little Italy has a plethora of dining options, making it challenging to choose just one. Consider factors like wait times and seating preferences when selecting your restaurant.

While many establishments offer delightful outdoor seating with heaters, popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. To ensure a table, making a reservation is highly recommended.

Here are a few restaurant recommendations to get you started:

Ristorante Illando – This restaurant offers classic Italian fare in a cozy atmosphere.

Vinarius Wine Bar – Enjoy a curated menu paired with an impressive wine list.

Civico 1845 – Savor Southern Italian cuisine with a commitment to sustainability.

After indulging in a delicious meal, take a short walk to a must-try sweet dessert place. This San Diego 4 day itinerary is not complete without a stop at a local gem, Extraordinary Desserts which offers an unparalleled sweet experience. With an extensive selection of cakes, pies, cookies and more, it’s a paradise for dessert lovers.

Tour Option: Little Italy Food Tour

With your appetite satisfied, it’s time to explore the vibrant nightlife of the Gaslamp Quarter. Get ready to experience the energy and excitement of downtown San Diego.

Parking in the Gaslamp Quarter can be challenging and expensive. Be prepared for paid parking and consider alternative transportation options.

Drive and park 

9pm-9:30pm (30 min)

Stop #5: Gaslamp Quarter

9:30pm+ 

Get ready to experience the magic of San Diego’s nightlife as you explore the Gaslamp Quarter. No 4 day San Diego itinerary is complete without checking this place out. 

Shake off the day and immerse yourself in San Diego’s vibrant nightlife. This bustling district offers a diverse array of entertainment options, from lively bars and clubs to intimate lounges and theaters.

Whether you’re seeking a high-energy atmosphere or a relaxed evening, the Gaslamp has a little bit of everything. Here are a few recommendations for where to go:

Moonshine Flats – This is where you g for a taste of country music and line dancing fun. It features a few bars, dance floor, live music and a mechanical bull to get your country groove on. 

The Shout! House – If you prefer a more laid-back experience,The Shout! House offers live piano music and a friendly ambiance. Listen to talented pianists play a variety of music and sing too. 

Prohibition – For a sophisticated night out, Prohibition’s 1920s-inspired speakeasy provides a stylish and intimate setting. A more relaxed and cozy atmosphere, it’s good for a chill evening. 

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Day 2 (Option 1)

Stop #1: SeaWorld

Full Day

SeaWorld San Diego is a popular attraction that offers visitors an up-close look at marine life. With a variety of thrilling rides, captivating shows and educational exhibits, the park provides a full day of entertainment for families and individuals alike.

It’s important to acknowledge the ongoing debate surrounding marine mammal captivity. While SeaWorld has made strides in animal welfare, it’s essential to be aware of the complexities of this issue.

If you choose to visit SeaWorld, you can expect to encounter a diverse range of marine creatures, from playful dolphins and majestic orcas to fascinating sharks and colorful fish.

The park offers various experiences, including animal encounters and educational shows, allowing visitors to learn about marine life and conservation efforts.

To maximize your time at SeaWorld, arrive early to take advantage of the park’s operating hours. Be sure to check their calendar for specific dates and times, as they vary throughout the year.

For an enhanced experience, consider purchasing an upgrade that includes expedited entry, dining options or animal encounters. Online ticket purchases often offer discounts, so it’s worth checking for deals before your visit.

If SeaWorld is not your thing, I’ve provided an alternative San Diego travel itinerary for the second day (day 2, option 2) below. 

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Day 2 (Option 2)

Stop #1 (Option 1): USS Midway Museum

10am-1pm (3 hrs)

The USS Midway Museum, housed on the iconic aircraft carrier of the same name, is an exciting visit for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. This massive vessel offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life aboard a warship.

With over 10 acres of exhibits spread across three decks, the Midway is packed with fascinating displays and artifacts.

Explore the flight deck to marvel at restored aircraft or delve into the hangar deck to discover interactive exhibits and simulators. For a glimpse into the daily lives of sailors, venture below deck to explore living quarters, mess halls, and the ship’s medical bay.

To enhance your visit, consider taking advantage of the self-guided audio tour, available in multiple languages. For a more in-depth experience, join a free docent-led tour, but be aware that availability is limited.

Allow at least three hours to fully explore the Midway. If naval history isn’t your primary interest, consider an alternative option for this stop.

The USS Midway Museum is open Monday through Sunday from 10am-5pm.

Stop #1 (Option 2): Maritime Museum of San Diego

10am-1pm (3 hrs)

An alternative to the USS Midway Museum is the Maritime Museum of San Diego. Located in the San Diego Bay, immerse yourself in maritime history.

This waterfront treasure includes an impressive fleet of historic ships, including the world-renowned Star of India, the oldest active sailing ship in the world.

Explore a diverse collection of vessels, from towering sailing ships to powerful steamboats and even a submarine.

Climb aboard these floating landmarks and imagine life at sea in different eras. The museum’s engaging exhibits and displays bring maritime history to life.

While you can enjoy the museum at your own pace, consider upgrading your experience with guided tours or boat excursions for an additional fee. However, even without these add-ons, the museum offers hours of exploration and discovery.

After immersing yourself in maritime wonder, it’s time to refuel. A short walk or 1 stop on the MTS Trolley will take you to Seaport Village, a charming waterfront destination with a variety of dining options.

Drive and park

1pm-1:30pm (30 min)

Stop #2: Seaport Village

1:30pm-3:30pm (2 hrs)

Seaport Village is a delightful blend of shopping, dining and entertainment. It’s located on the charming waterfront of the San Diego Bay.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments. Afterward, explore the unique shops offering everything from souvenirs to fashion.

Families will appreciate the carousel and the opportunity to catch street performances. Take a leisurely stroll along the pier and soak up the stunning views of San Diego Bay.

Tour Option: Seaport Village Food Tour

After a relaxing afternoon, it’s time to cross the bay to Coronado Island. For a unique experience, consider taking the Coronado Ferry from Broadway Pier to Coronado Ferry Landing. You can get beautiful views of the water and it’s a fun way to experience the area.  

Drive and park

3:30pm-4pm (30 min)

Stop #3: Coronado Island

4pm+ (4+ hrs)

Coronado Island, a picturesque peninsula just across the bay from San Diego, offers a charming retreat from the city bustle. Its crown jewel is the iconic Hotel del Coronado, a historic landmark with a captivating Victorian facade. While the hotel is currently undergoing renovations, it remains a symbol of Coronado’s elegance.

Beyond the hotel, Coronado also has beautiful beaches, inviting parks and a vibrant village atmosphere. Spend your afternoon strolling along the sandy shores, soaking up the sun or exploring the charming shops and restaurants.

For dinner, indulge in a delicious meal at one of Coronado’s many dining options:

Garage Buona Forchetta – Just a short walk from the hotel is this fantastic Italian eatery with a unique garage theme. Create your own pasta masterpiece or savor one of their daily specials and pizzas.

For the ultimate Italian experience, explore their on-site market offering a selection of wines, pastas and other authentic Italian goodies. 

Little Frenchie – This charming French bistro offers both brunch and dinner, and it’s definitely on the pricier side – but as they say, good French food doesn’t come cheap.

Indulge in classic French fare like the iconic Nicoise salad, French onion soup, escargot, and hearty dishes such as duck and beef bourguignon.

Bluewater Grill – This boathouse-inspired restaurant is a great choice for seafood lovers. The menu brims with fresh catches, from classic clam chowder to succulent lobster.

Enjoy oysters on the half shell, savor grilled scallops or indulge in a hearty crab dish. Don’t worry if you’re not a seafood fan – they offer plenty of non-seafood options as well.

After dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or simply relax and watch the sun paint the sky with vibrant colors. It may also be nice to spend the night on the island. Here are a couple of hotel recommendations:

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Day 4

Stop #1: San Diego Zoo

Full Day

One of the most popular attractions in San Diego is the San Diego Zoo located in Balboa Park where you can see over 12,000 animals across 100 acres.

In this itinerary for San Diego I’ve included this park because it’s one of the best zoos in the United States.

There are 9 major sections of the zoo: 

Wildlife Explorers Basecamp – Immerse yourself in an interactive nature play area and visit habitats around the world. Learn the importance of conserving wildlife.  

Reptile Walk – See turtles, tortoises, snakes, alligators, crocodiles as well as amphibians. Get excited to see a komodo dragon.

Lost Forest – Get lost in the trails of the forests of Asia and Africa. Wind your way up into the canopy and the forest floor to see an elephant okapi, various tigers and monkeys.

Northern Frontier – This is the home of the Polar Bear Plunge which houses polar bears and over 30 species found in the arctic. In this habitat there is an underwater viewing area where you can see the polar bears swim. 

Asian Passage – Take a peek at animals unique to Asia such as the adorable red panda, the stealthy snow leopard, the mang mountain viper and sun bear.

Elephant Odyssey – This area spans 7.5 acres where you can see the world’s largest land mammals, the elephant. See the beauty of these magnificent animals. 

Urban Jungle – The main attraction here are the Masai Giraffes. But don’t forget to see the rhinos, zebras and hornbill birds, gazelles, flamingos and donkeys. 

Outback – Get a close-up view of Australia’s most popular animals such as cute koalas, kookaburras, tasmanian devils and of course kangaroos!

Africa Rocks – See some of Africa’s most extraordinary animals including penguins, lemurs, crocodiles, leopards and baboons. Across 6 different habitats found in Africa, you’ll get to see a wealth of biodiversity.

And do forget to checkout their newest area, Panda Ridge, where you get to see giant pandas! 

Upgrade Your Experience: The San Diego Zoo also has MANY upgraded add-on experiences such as taking a guided tour of the zoo, seeing the pandas before the park opens, meeting wildlife up close or having VIP private adventures. There are many options to make your trip more special. 

Safari Park

I’d like to make an honorable mention that there is a sister park called the Safari Park. But it’s located in Escondido which is not close to San Diego.

Since the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are 35 miles away from each other which could take 45-60 minutes to travel there, I recommend just sticking to one or the other, but the San Diego Zoo is the better choice for first time San Diego visitors in my opinion. 

This will give you a better idea of the differences between the two parks:

San Diego Zoo

• Location: Balboa Park, San Diego
• Atmosphere: Traditional zoo setting with exhibits and enclosures
• Animals: Diverse range of animals, including many endangered species
• Experiences: Up-close animal encounters, shows, and educational exhibits

San Diego Safari Park

• Location: Escondido
• Atmosphere: Open-concept park with larger enclosures simulating natural habitats
• Animals: Focus on African and Asian wildlife, with a strong emphasis on conservation
• Experiences: Safari Jeep Tours, walking safaris, and immersive animal encounters

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Discounts

Four days in San Diego is enough to get in several major attractions. If you can commit to going to some of these places, I’d highly recommend that you invest in the San Diego City PASS or the San Diego Go City passes which will save you a lot of money if you use them to your advantage. 

While the two passes are similar, there are notable differences:

San Diego City PASS

• Save up to 45% off popular San Diego attractions
• Choose SeaWorld or Legoland + 3 other attractions
• You have 9 consecutive days to see all of the attractions you choose
• There are discounts off child and adult tickets
• To get your money’s worth, go to the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park as one of your 3 attractions
• Use the My CityPASS app to make reservations
• You can visit more than one attraction in the same day

 San Diego Go City

Explorer Pass

• Save up to 44% off popular San Diego attractions
• Choose between 2 to 7 attractions you want to see
• Price per attraction decreases the more attractions you want to see
• Valid for 60 days from your first visit
• Choose from 45+ attractions

All-Inclusive Pass

• Save up to 47% off popular San Diego attractions
• See as many attractions as you want over a period of 1 to 7 days
• Price per day decreases the more days you choose
• Choose from 50+ attractions

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Hotels

Your accommodations should be in a safe and central area to the places you are visiting. They should also be affordable, clean and have friendly staff. Here are a couple of places worth looking at.

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: FAQ

Is 4 days enough in San Diego?

A four day San Diego trip is a good amount of time to see San Diego. But if you plan to visit one or more of the many theme parks in the area, you may want to spend a little more time here.

Four days is enough to see the major attractions in San Diego as outlined in this itinerary, but there is still more to see. 

What is the cheapest time of year to visit San Diego?

Mid September through November is the cheapest time of year to visit San Diego when the touristy season is over. During this time you can also enjoy nice weather. 

What are four highlights of San Diego?

Here are four reasons to travel to San Diego: the temperate weather, the beautiful beaches, many fun and exciting theme parks and great food. I’ll add a fifth one in there and that’s superb and plentiful museums. 

Is San Diego or LA better for vacation?

Both places have a lot to offer and see. San Diego is better if you like a slower paced vacation. It’s less crowded and more laid back. It’s also a better choice if you like the ocean as there are many beaches to choose from and experience.

Los Angeles is a better choice if you have an interest in Hollywood, a more fast-paced environment and lots of diversity in food and environments.

Los Angeles is huge so getting around can be a challenge if you don’t have a car. LA has more options for things to do but attractions are more spread out.

Can you enjoy San Diego without a car?

It’s possible to travel around San Diego without a car, especially if you are only visiting the major attractions. The MTS Trolley is a great public transportation option which can take you to major attractions like Old Town San Diego, Seaport Village, Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter. The bus system also goes to major attractions. 

In this San Diego trip itinerary I provide different methods of transportation to get from place to place. Using their public transportation system, you can get around cheaply with a little planning and time management. 

How to save money on San Diego attractions?

Getting different passes can save you money if you plan to visit multiple attractions during your stay. Check out the San Diego City PASS, Go San Diego Pass and the Balboa Explorer Pass.

The San Diego City PASS focuses more on major attractions. Go San Diego Pass has the most attraction choices. Balboa Explorer Pass focuses on museums. So as long as you plan to visit several attractions, one of these passes could be worth it. 

What food is San Diego known for?

Mexican and Italian food. Since San Diego is close to the Mexican border, there are many authentic Mexican food options as well as baja style coastal food.

Being the home of Little Italy, San Diego also has some amazing Italian food. Lastly, San Diego is known for breweries. Visit a local brewery for some local craft beer. 

What is unique to San Diego?

What makes San Diego unique is the beautiful beaches, museums, theme parks and temperate weather. This combination of attractions makes San Diego a desirable place to visit. It has a relaxed, laid back atmosphere. 

Is San Diego cheap or expensive?

San Diego is on the expensive side. Accommodations, food, parking, transportation (unless you do public transportation) and admission to attractions will be pricey.

If budget is a priority to you, you can save in these areas and minimize your costs. Avoiding theme parks and taking public transportation can reduce your costs a lot.

What time of month is best to visit San Diego?

It really depends on what your priorities are. If your priorities are weather, the best months to visit are spring, summer and fall. If your priority is crowds, avoid the summer. If your priority is lower costs, choose winter, September, October or November.

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Getting There

San Diego is easy to access. By car you can drive in on the 5 fwy, 805 fwy, 8 fwy and the 15 fwy. By plane, San Diego Airport is very close to the main attractions. You can easily Uber into the downtown area or rent a car at the airport. 

You can also take the Amtrak which rides up and down the coast of California. The last stop is Santa Fe Depot in San Diego. Taking the Amtrak is a fun way to explore California without a car. 

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: What to Pack

For this 4 day itinerary San Diego it’s important to bring the right stuff. Here’s a checklist:

• A good pair of walking shoes is necessary. You will be walking around a lot.
• If you are going in the summer, be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. Protect yourself from the sun. 
• Bring your bathing suit, flip flops and any other swimming gear if you plan to go in the water.
• Be prepared for cooler nights. A jacket may be necessary. The winter can be chilly, especially at night. Pay attention to the weather.
• If rain is in the forecast, bring an umbrella. 

San Diego Itinerary 4 Days: Final Thoughts

San Diego is not like Los Angeles or New York where it’s bustling with city life. You may find something similar in Gaslamp Quarter, but most of San Diego is more laid back and casual. It’s a great place to relax and take your time. I highly recommend it to anyone on the fence about going. 

There’s so much to do here, between the theme parks, museums, beaches and food options, you really can’t go wrong with San Diego.

4 days in San Diego is a good amount of time to spend in San Diego, especially if you plan to visit a theme park. You will want the extra days to dedicate to theme parks.

Check out my other San Diego itineraries:

1 Day San Diego Itinerary – See what to do in San Diego in one day and make the most of your time. 

2 Days in San Diego Itinerary – In 2 days, get a ‘weekends’ glimpse and see what makes San Diego so amazing.

3 Day San Diego Itinerary – With 3 days to explore, perhaps visit a theme park that San Diego is known for.