experience
San Diego
our top 10 guide
1 La Jolla
La Jolla is an awesome coastal neighborhood where you’ll find sea lions at La Jolla Cove, tide pools to explore, and plenty of restaurants, shops, and art galleries in the village. This is usually the first place we take people when they visit us! If you have time, we recommend grabbing a drink at George’s. The outdoor mall, La Jolla UTC, is also a must visit.
2 Encinitas
Encinitas is Jenna’s favorite spot in San Diego, a laid-back coastal town known for its charm. You can visit the peaceful meditation gardens overlooking the ocean, spend time at Moonlight Beach, and wander through the shops and cafés in town. Fun fact – Jenna actually works in Encinitas, so it’s a special place for us!
3 Old Town
Old Town is the historic heart of San Diego, full of colorful shops, live music and culture. It’s a great place to walk around, stop by the chocolate shop, and enjoy a wine tasting while taking in the lively atmosphere.
4 Coronado
Coronado is a picturesque island just across the bay from downtown San Diego. It’s home to the famous Hotel del Coronado, a landmark worth seeing, and the wide beach is perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can stroll through the charming village with its shops and cafés. We recommend checking out The Henry for lunch or drinks.
5 San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, known for its huge variety of animals and lush, park-like setting. It’s easy to spend several hours here, and it pairs well with a shorter visit to nearby Balboa Park if you want to make a full day out of it.
6 Balboa Park
Balboa Park is the cultural hub of San Diego, with museums, gardens, and beautiful Spanish-style architecture. It’s a great place to spend a few hours soaking in some history and art, and it pairs perfectly with a visit to the nearby San Diego Zoo.
7 Sunset Cliffs
Sunset Cliffs is one of the best spots in San Diego to catch the sunset, with dramatic ocean views and walking paths along the bluffs. It’s a simple but memorable stop with breathtaking views, perfect for an evening stroll or just watching the waves.
8 Torrey Pines
Torrey Pines is Andrew’s favorite spot in San Diego, known for its incredible coastal views and natural beauty. The beach is one of the best around, and the hike through the reserve is extremely worthwhile. It’s scenic and tranquil, without being too difficult. It’s the perfect mix of ocean, trails, and views you won’t forget.
9 Downtown San Diego
Downtown San Diego has a little bit of everything – from the historic USS Midway Museum on the waterfront to the lively Gaslamp Quarter with its restaurants and nightlife. You’ll also find Seaport Village for shopping and strolling, and Petco Park if you want to catch a Padres game. It’s a must see area with plenty to explore in one spot.
10 Disneyland
Disneyland is about an hour and a half drive from San Diego, and it’s a must for anyone who loves Disney. This is the original park Walt Disney opened in 1955, and it has a very different feel from the larger resorts you may be familiar with. Everything is walkable, the rides are more classic, and the park itself is full of history you won’t find anywhere else. If you’ve only experienced Disney World, seeing the OG Disneyland is a worthwhile trip.
