Before we start, let me disclaimer: San Diego deserves at least one weekend of your time, if not one week. From a world-class zoo, to beautiful beaches and hidden gems, there’s a lot to do. And that doesn’t even cover the food scene! However, after having grown up in the city, I’m sharing my absolute favorites things when it comes to spending one day in San Diego.
[ MORNING ] Spend your morning by the beach and museum hopping
Start your morning in “the jewel” of San Diego with some breakfast and a walk by the water before going museum hopping in Balboa Park.
Breakfast at Cody’s La Jolla
Cody’s is a locals’ favorite that features California coast dishes with views of the La Jolla Cove. Their “Awesome French Toast” is a fan favorite, and their breakfast cocktails are a must. Their new location is hidden away above the main street so it can easily be missed if you’re not looking!
- Location: 1025 Prospect St #210, La Jolla, CA 92037
- What to order: Crab cake benedict, Awesome French toast, sparkling white wine sangria
Walk along La Jolla Cove – visit the seals
Next up on your one day in San Diego itinerary we have a walk by “the cove” as locals call it. This stretch of beach is popular amongst tourists and locals alike. One of the main attractions is the view of the seals in their natural habitat. You can find the seals by routing to the Children’s Pool.
If you have a little extra time, walk on the path by Coast BLVD. You’ll find benches to sit for a break and beautiful views!
Interested in spending more time in La Jolla? Read our day trip guide here.
Museum hopping in Balboa Park
A trip to San Diego isn’t complete without a visit to Balboa Park. This 1,200 acre park is home to 10+ museums, botanical gardens, restaurants and more. You could easily spend a day in Balboa Park but here are a few favorites:
- San Diego Museum of Art (Want to grab lunch in the park? Visit Panama 66 in the garden of the SDMA)
- San Diego Natural History Museum
- Spanish Village Art Center (For the perfect souvenir and a coffee at Daniel’s Coffee)
- Desert Cactus Garden (Located across the street from the park)
- Botanical Building & Lily Pond (Near the lily pond is a perfect spot for a picnic)
- Japanese Friendship Garden (They also have a tea pavilion where you can order an assortment of Japanese snacks)
[ AFTERNOON ] Spend the afternoon on Coronado Island
Hop over to Coronado Island for the afternoon. This manmade island is most well-known for the famous Hotel del Coronado which is at the heart of the island. Looking to walk around the island? The main streets are located on Orange Avenue Between 10th Street and Dana Place.
Lunch at Feast and Fareway in Coronado
Located on the Coronado Golf Course, it’ll be hard to find a tourist here! This hidden gem is perfect for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy lunch with a view of the golf course. Their recently renovated restaurant also features elevated California cuisine.
- Location: 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado, CA 92118
- What to order: Spanish Octopus, Truffle Burger
Day Pass to the Hotel del Coronado
If you’re looking to take a little breather for a few hours, get a day pass to hang out at the Hotel del Coronado. You can get a day pass with the company Resort Pass that is $70 for an adult or $250 for a Cabana of up to 8 people.
Not interested in having a beach day? The area behind the hotel has a wonderful walking path along the beach!
[ EVENING ] Dinner & Drinks in Little Italy
I grew up visiting the hole-in-the-wall Italian restaurants started by immigrants to San Diego before Little Italy became the trendy and hopping place it is today. In between dinner and drinks, make sure you walk down India Street (the heart of Little Italy). Stop by Piazza della Famiglia for some people watching and live music on weekends before heading to dinner and grabbing a drink.
Dinner @ Civico 1845
There are lots of options when it comes to Italian dining in Little Italy. However, not every restaurant checks all the boxes like Civico does. Aesthetic? Check. Vegetarian and vegan options? Check. Delicious food? Double check.
- Location: 1845 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
- What to order: Ravioli Zucca, Fusili alla Norma
Drinks @ Cloak & Petal
Cloak & Petal serves up straight vibes. There’s something about the Japanese cherry tree in the middle of the restaurant, the modern artwork and the unique menu that makes this a perfect last stop. They actually also have a delicious sushi menu, but the drinks get a 10/10.
- Location: 1953 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
- What to order: Elyx Fix, Japanese to English
Tips for spending one day in San Diego
Now that you know how you can spend one day in San Diego, let’s talk about a few tips.
- You need a car. Or have some way to get around the city. Everything is pretty spread out, and will you can rely on Ubers, it can get pretty pricey!
- Bring a jacket. San Diego is known for having three seasons in one day. Early morning it’s in the low 50s, mid day it might be in the 80s, and in the evening you’re back to the 60s.
- Plan to come back. There’s only so much you can see in one day, so you absolutely need to plan a trip back!
Looking for more San Diego content?
San Diego’s Trendiest Brunch Spots
The Full San Diego Travel Guide
