What to Know Before Traveling to San Diego, CA

So, you plan on visiting California but looking for that laid-back vibe instead of all the glamour from LA? Well, Sand Diego is the perfect choice.

Why? Well, you still get the sunny skies and beautiful beaches, but you also get some great Mexican food in San Diego along with of a relaxing vibe, and plenty of things you can do.

But you know that the secret to the perfect vacation or trip lies in thorough research, so that’s why we’ve made this San Diego guide where we will cover all aspects of your trip from your stay, transport, activities, and food.

Table of Content

Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting San Diego

What to Know Before Traveling to San Diego, CA — Source: Unsplash

When’s the Best Time to Visit San Diego?

The first and probably the most important thing for making your vacation spotless is choosing the right time to visit San Diego. The good thing is that San Diego is blessed with perfect weather all year round.

However, if you are looking for that relaxing stay and want to avoid the crowds (and maybe get cheaper flights and hotels), I’d suggest you visit during the shoulder seasons (March to May or September to November).

Being a sunny place full of beaches, it is obviously a tourist hotspot during the summer, so if you love a bit of crowd then aim for July or August.

One thing that most people get wrong when they visit San Diego is the weather. Yes, it is sunny most of the time, but the Pacific Ocean is chilly (even in summer), so make sure you pack layers of clothing.

Things to consider: The water in the ocean is pretty cold, so unless you can handle that, you should wear a wetsuit.

Exploring San Diego, CA: Public Transport or Car?

You obviously need to think about transport, especially if you want to visit some of the top attractions in San Diego.

Renting a car is the best way to get on a perfect American West Coast trip. That way you have freedom to travel anywhere you like and get the most out of San Diego and beyond.

Gas prices might be a bit steep, but at least you won’t have the headache of trying to navigate through the public transit system (which is inconsistent).

San Diego Top Attractions (And Some Hidden Gems)

We all know about San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Balboa Park—they’re like the holy trinity of must-see spots. But what if you want to break away from the tourist path? Here’s a little insider knowledge:

Cabrillo National Monument: Tucked at the tip of Point Loma, this spot offers stunning ocean views, especially at sunset. Plus, you can explore tide pools or get a history lesson about Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo, the first European to step foot on the West Coast.
Del Mar Racetrack: Not many people know but one of the best racetracks in the United States is located in San Diego. If you are a fan of horse racing or want something new, we highly suggest visiting this racetrack. If you want the ultimate attraction, maybe you should get a ticket for this year's Breeders’ Cup which lasts from October 28 through November 3. You can also learn how to bet on the 2024 Breeders’ Cup online.
Sunset Cliffs: Just south of Ocean Beach, this spot is exactly what it sounds like—a prime location for catching killer sunsets without battling crowds.
North Park & South Park: If you’re into quirky neighborhoods with awesome street art, indie shops, and top-notch breweries, spend a day exploring these areas.

For those who prefer a laid-back beach vibe, head to La Jolla or Coronado Beach—they offer some of the most picturesque coastlines California has to offer.

How’s the Food Scene Like?

San Diego’s proximity to Mexico means you’re in for some of the best Mexican food north of the border.

Tacos, burritos, and everything in between is a must, and trust me, you can’t leave without trying a California Burrito—a carne asada burrito stuffed with French fries. I don’t know about you, but that sounds delicious to me.

If seafood is more your jam, don’t miss out on the fish tacos. For an iconic spot, head to Oscar’s Mexican Seafood or Point Loma Seafoods.

And if you’re into craft beer, you’re in luck. San Diego is basically the craft beer capital of the U.S., home to more than 150 breweries. Whether you're a hophead or prefer something lighter, there’s a brewery here with your name on it.

Where to Stay in San Diego, CA

Choosing where to stay in San Diego is key.

If you're into nightlife and love being in the thick of things, Gaslamp Quarter is where you’ll want to base yourself. On the flip side, if beach vibes are more your speed, go for Pacific Beach or Ocean Beach—they offer a more chill, surf-friendly atmosphere.

Want to save a bit of cash? Hostels like Lucky D’s are a solid choice if you're down for a more social, budget-friendly option. If you’re looking for something a bit more private and cozier, Airbnbs or Vrbos in Old Town or Ocean Beach offers a local, laid-back experience.

Is San Diego Expensive?

San Diego isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s not San Francisco either. You can expect to spend a bit on accommodations, especially if you're staying near the beach or downtown.

Average hotel prices hover around $200 a night, while a good Airbnb could cost anywhere between $100-$300 per night, depending on the location.

When it comes to food, you can easily find budget-friendly eats if you hit up taco joints and food trucks. Want to splurge? San Diego’s got plenty of high-end restaurants to blow your budget on.

Conclusion

San Diego may not be the cheapest places to visit in the USA, but it offers everything you need for an American beach getaway: sunny weather, laidback beaches, all at a fraction of the price compared to other cities on the east coast.

On top of that, the city also offers some of the best activities – whether you’re looking for some of the best instagrammable spots in America or if you prefer spending your day out on the beach.

So, are you ready to consider San Diego for your next vacation?