How to Experience the Perfect Weekend in San Diego

I enjoy a lively adventure in Los Angeles, but after a few days of urban chaos and frustrating traffic, I crave a more relaxed vibe. This is when I think, 'Ah yes, San Diego,' and make the two-hour drive south for the same beautiful California experience but with a quieter atmosphere.

Even though I've never lived in California, my time overseas means that San Diego is usually my first stop when I visit the U.S. to see friends and family. It's one of those places that feels like home, and I love visiting my brother there once or twice a year. If you're planning a weekend trip, here’s my advice:

• When to arrive: Try to get in on Thursday evening to make the most of your weekend. The airport is typically calm, so a Friday morning arrival should also be manageable.
• Getting from the airport: Catching an Uber or Lyft is easy with designated rideshare spots at SAN. There's a bus stop at Terminal 2, but taking public transport will take longer and save only $15–20.
• Getting around: Like most U.S. cities, renting a car is the best option for convenience in San Diego, though you can also stroll through vibrant neighborhoods or use rideshares and the trolley, including the new Copper Line for additional sightseeing.
• Where to stay: I have plenty of recommendations, but if I'm looking for something upscale, I’d choose the Lafayette Hotel. For budget options, the colorful Samesun Ocean Beach offers a mix of dorms and private rooms in a prime beachside location. You can find a range of accommodations on Airbnb as well; I particularly like Ocean Beach, La Jolla, North Park, and South Park. Most of the time, I just crash on my brother's couch.
• What to pack: Comfortable, laid-back clothing is essential since the beach is always nearby. Pack appropriately, but consider bringing something nice for a fancy dinner or a fun night out.

Friday

Morning: Start your weekend off right with a morning stroll in Little Italy, a charming neighborhood just northwest of downtown. If you're juggling Friday work emails and need a caffeine boost with a lovely view, grab a coffee (or an iced matcha) at Portal Coffee located right across from Waterfront Park.

When hunger strikes, enjoy a light snack on Caffe Italia's outdoor terrace. For a more sumptuous option, indulge at the vibrant Morning Glory, where breakfast dishes from around the globe are a highlight. From chilaquiles to Turkish eggs, the selection is impressively diverse.

How to spend the day: Ocean Beach is a convenient spot for a laid-back afternoon, so I recommend heading there to explore or simply relax on the sun-soaked sand. With volleyball courts and a designated dog beach, this area has a friendly neighborhood vibe that attracts many locals. For lunch, pick up a poke bowl from It's Raw Poke Shop, a small counter-service place with a limited menu that's so good you'll find yourself thinking about it even when you're not in town.

Dinner: The Lafayette Hotel feels like a mesmerizing fever dream, showcasing different eras and themes in each room. Originally at its peak in the 1940s, the hotel underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2023. Even if you’re not a guest, the hotel offers dining and drinking experiences to the public. Choose from a vintage American diner from the '40s, a stunning Oaxacan-inspired dining room resembling a church, a chic outdoor pool bar, and many more surprises to discover.

After dark: Head to North Park for a cocktail or mocktail at Part Time Lover, a beautifully designed bar and record shop that will definitely inspire my future home decor. If the night continues, Bluefoot Bar awaits with a dance-worthy lineup of hip-hop tracks, often featuring hits from the early 2000s.

Saturday

Morning: You might stumble over the pronunciation of La Jolla (it’s la hoy-a), but the breathtaking views will surely win you over. This coastal neighborhood is both charming and pricey, a fitting cost given the dramatic cliffs and vibrant tide pools brimming with marine life. Enjoy a morning walk at the La Jolla Tide Pools and Cuvier Park before dining on the airy rooftop of Trilogy Sanctuary, a health-focused café featuring plant-based dishes and fresh juices. If you prefer a classic breakfast, head over to Harry's Coffee Shop, the oldest diner in the area, for your bacon and eggs fix.

How to spend the day: Saturday afternoon is perfect for immersing yourself in nature, and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is the go-to destination. This coastal state park offers a breathtaking escape, making it feel miles away from the city, even though it’s just a 20-minute drive. I’d likely bring a picnic lunch, but you can also grab a sandwich from Cliff Hanger Cafe, where hang gliders frequently launch themselves into the expansive ocean below.

Dinner: After a day of adventure, return downtown for a sunset stroll along Harbor Drive, followed by dinner on the rooftop at Seneca Trattoria, where stunning city views sparkle as night falls.

After dark: Enjoy bar hopping in the nearby Gaslamp Quarter, alive with vibrant nightlife and plenty of late-night taco joints. Alternatively, visit the whiskey lounge at Seven Grand in North Park for a guaranteed good time.

Sunday

Morning: Balboa Park is like the Central Park of San Diego, sprawling over 1200 acres filled with lush greenery, museums, and dining options. Depending on your plans, you could easily spend an entire day here, but I personally enjoy a leisurely walk along the serene, leafy trails. This is free, but if you're feeling adventurous, you could purchase a Park Explorer Pass to access attractions like the Japanese Friendship Garden, various art and culture museums, and exhibits on science and history. Make sure to exit through the park's southern end and treat yourself to a plate of French toast at Golden Hill Cafe for breakfast.

How to spend the day: Wrap up your weekend in Barrio Logan, a vibrant Mexican-American neighborhood adorned with colorful murals and some of the finest Mexican cuisine in the city. You can browse through galleries and unique boutiques, but the entire area resembles an open-air art gallery, with large murals and lively graffiti depicting the area's history. This is the site where settlers from Mexico arrived in 1890, making Chicano Park a significant landmark. Devour an impressive amount of tacos at SALUD for lunch, or indulge in anything from the menu at the classic Las Cuatro Milpas.

From Barrio Logan, it's a mere 10-minute drive to the airport. Prepare to return: San Diego offers so much more than one weekend can encompass – I've been visiting for years and still discover new attractions each time..