3 Days in San Diego: Complete Itinerary & Where to Stay (2026)
San Diego 3-Day Itinerary: Where to Stay & What to Do in 2026
Planning a weekend in San Diego or a quick 3-day Southern California getaway? This detailed 72-hour San Diego itinerary covers the city’s best beaches, iconic attractions, coastal neighborhoods, scenic viewpoints, historic landmarks, family-friendly activities, and top dining spots, all organized for easy planning.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic coastal escape, a girls’ trip, a family vacation, or a solo California adventure, this guide helps you experience the best things to do in San Diego in 2026.
Where to Stay in San Diego for 3 Days
Location matters. To maximize sightseeing and minimize drive time, stay near one of these top neighborhoods:
Mission Beach & Pacific Beach: Classic California Beach Vibes
Mission Beach
Mission Beach at sunset, where golden skies meet the endless Pacific
Pacific Beach
Pacific Beach vibes, sun, surf, and endless summer energy.
Best for: Beachfront stays, surf culture, boardwalk biking, casual nightlife
Why stay here:
- Oceanfront vacation rentals steps from the sand
- 3-mile boardwalk for biking & skating
- Surf lessons, paddleboarding & beach volleyball
- Laid-back taco shops & rooftop bars
Perfect if you want to wake up to ocean views and stay close to water activities.
La Jolla: Scenic Coastal Luxury
La Jolla
Coastal elegance carved by the sea, La Jolla, California.
Best for: Coastal scenery, kayaking sea caves, upscale dining
Highlights:
- Snorkeling at La Jolla Cove
- Family-friendly La Jolla Shores
- Sea lion spotting
- Oceanfront brunch & fine dining
Ideal for couples, families, and travelers wanting postcard-perfect coastal views.
Downtown & Gaslamp Quarter: Walkable & Vibrant
Gaslamp Quarter
Gaslamp Quarter, the historic heart of San Diego.
Best for: Nightlife, restaurants, central transit access
Benefits:
- Walking distance to the harborEasy trolley access to Old Town
- Rooftop bars & craft cocktail lounges
- lose to Petco Park & convention center
Great if you don’t plan to rent a car.
Browse SD Stay vacation rentals near these neighborhoods for centrally located, short-term stays.
Day 1: Balboa Park, La Jolla & Little Italy
Morning: Explore
Balboa Park
Golden hour over Balboa Park, where history glows in the California sun.
Start your San Diego weekend at this 1,200-acre cultural landmark filled with Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, botanical gardens, museums, and walking paths.
Must-visit museums:
- San Diego Natural History Museum
Rooftop vibes at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park
- Fleet Science Center
Fleet Science Center, where discovery meets inspiration.
Plan 2–3 hours here.
Late Morning:
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Perched above the Pacific Ocean, this aquarium offers:
- Interactive tide pools
- Marine conservation exhibits
- Stunning cliffside ocean views
It’s one of the best family-friendly attractions in San Diego.
Afternoon: La Jolla Shores & Cove
Visit:
- La Jolla Shores
- La Jolla Cove
Swim, kayak through sea caves, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or watch sea lions sunbathe on rocky cliffs.
Grab fish tacos or enjoy oceanfront dining in La Jolla Village.
Evening:
Little Italy
Little Italy, where city lights, fountain glow, and Italian charm come alive.
One of San Diego’s top dining districts featuring:
- Handmade pasta & wood-fired pizza
- Craft cocktails
- Outdoor patio dining
- Trendy dessert cafés
Perfect for a relaxed yet lively first night.
Day 2: Coronado, Old Town & Sunset Cliffs
Morning:
Coronado Island
Coronado, where timeless elegance meets the Pacific.
Take the ferry or drive across the Coronado Bridge to:
- Visit the iconic Hotel del Coronado
- Walk along wide, white-sand beaches
- Enjoy oceanfront brunch
Coronado Beach frequently ranks among the best beaches in California.
Afternoon:
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
Experience San Diego’s birthplace:
- Historic adobe buildings
- Mexican heritage restaurants
- Artisan markets
- Live mariachi music
Great for cultural exploration and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Evening:
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
One of the most photographed sunset spots in Southern California. Expect dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and unforgettable golden hour views.
Day 3: Zoo, Waterfront & Harbor Views
Morning:
San Diego Zoo
A world-famous zoo featuring:
- 12,000+ animals
- Expansive natural habitats
- Guided bus tours
Allow 3–4 hours to explore.
Lunch:
Seaport Village
Waterfront restaurants, harbor views, boutique shops, and relaxing bayfront walking paths make this a perfect final stop.
Optional Afternoon:
- USS Midway Museum: Tour a historic aircraft carrier
- Harbour cruise on San Diego Bay for skyline views
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Practical Travel Tips for 2026
Best Time to Visit San Diego
- Spring (March–May): Mild weather & fewer crowds
- Fall (September–November): Warm ocean temps
- Expect “June Gloom” marine layer in early summer mornings
Getting Around
- San Diego Trolley connects Downtown & Old Town
- Rideshare widely available
- Rental car recommended for La Jolla & Coronado flexibility
FAQ: Planning a 3-Day San Diego Trip
Is 3 days enough in San Diego?
Q1. Yes. A well-planned 3-day itinerary covers beaches, historic districts, museums, coastal neighbourhoods, and waterfront attractions.
Q2. Do you need a car?
Optional. Stay Downtown if you prefer walkability.
Q3. Top must-see attractions?
Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, San Diego Zoo, Sunset Cliffs.
Ready to Book Your San Diego Vacation Rental?
Browse vacation rentals near Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and Downtown San Diego to stay close to beaches, restaurants, and top attractions. Booking direct often means better pricing and more flexibility for your 2026 San Diego getaway.
Your perfect California coastal weekend starts here.