Day Trips from San Diego
Looking for the very best day trips and tours from San Diego? You've come to the right page! San Diego is not only a destination in itself but also the perfect starting point for unforgettable day trips. Having just explored the region on a four week road trip, I’ve found that just a short drive from the city you can experience everything from charming coastal towns to quiet desert escapes.
I can recommend beautiful beaches perfect for a relaxing getaway, wineries, and lively towns filled with culture, food, and history. From family-friendly adventures and solo day trips to romantic escapes, day trips from San Diego offer something for every kind of traveler. Here are the ones I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Winding along the coast in La Jolla (25 min from San Diego)
Just a short 25 minute drive north of San Diego, I found La Jolla to be one of my favorite coastal escapes, and it felt like the perfect change of pace from the city’s energy. I recommend a two day stay at 4-star La Valencia Hotel if you are from out of town to give yourself plenty of time to get to know the area.
As soon as we arrived, we walked along the dramatic cliffs at La Jolla Cove, and I couldn’t get over the cool sea caves carved into the shoreline.
I loved spotting the sea lions basking on the rocks (sometimes you have to look hard!), and we stayed for a while just watching their playful antics—it was such a joyful experience that completely won me over.
We also wandered through the village, which had a charming mix of boutiques, galleries, and cafés that gave the area such a unique small-town feel right by the ocean.
Brunch overlooking the water at Brockton Villa was my personal highlight, especially with those sweeping Pacific views that stretched endlessly in front of us.
Kayaking here is an exciting highlight for many visitors I talked to, since you can get up close to hidden coves and even paddle into one of the famous sea caves. Not a fan of getting in the water? Not a problem because there is so much else to do here!
What struck me most was how family-friendly everything felt, with parks, beaches, and tide pools perfect for exploring with kids or simply reconnecting with nature.
One of the coolest moments was watching the sunset from the cliffs—the colors made the whole coastline glow in a way I’ll never forget.
I think La Jolla works just as well for a romantic weekend escape as it does for a family day trip, which makes it such a versatile spot near San Diego.
- Location: Map & Directions
Every time I leave, I feel like I’ve discovered a little coastal gem that never loses its magic, no matter how many times I return.
2. Julian - 2 hours from San Diego
Julian makes the perfect weekend getaway from San Diego for anyone seeking a cozy mountain retreat or a taste of small-town calm. This historic gold rush town is famous for its homemade apple pies, rustic atmosphere, and scenic beauty—ideal for couples or families wanting a relaxing escape.
To get there, take I-8 East toward the mountains, then head north on CA-79. The drive takes just over two hours, winding through picturesque countryside and oak-filled valleys. Once you arrive, you can easily explore the town on foot. I loved that there's no need for a car once you’re there.
A few of the best things to do in Julian include apple picking at one of the local orchards (like Julian Farm and Orchard in my photo), sampling fresh cider at Julian Hard Cider, and visiting the Eagle Mining Company for a tour of an authentic 1870s gold mine. Outdoor lovers will enjoy hiking in nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park or Mount Laguna for incredible views.
When it comes to food, you can’t leave without trying a slice of apple pie at Mom’s Pie House or Julian Pie Company. For dinner, Jeremy’s on the Hill offers elevated farm-to-table cuisine with in-season local ingredients.
- Location: Map & Directions
For accommodations, consider staying at one of the charming bed and breakfasts or historic inns in town. 3-star Orchard Hill and 2-star Julian Gold Rush Hotel both make a comfortable base for exploring!
3. Sandy Paths in Coronado
Looking for a family friendly beach vacation? Just across the bay from downtown San Diego, you quickly get to Coronado, one of my favorite SoCal vacation destinations. I think it's the absolute best day trip from San Diego. Why? Because it's close by making the drive short letting you relax on beautiful sandy shores for longer.
We drove over the sweeping Coronado Bridge, and the view of the skyline behind us was one of the coolest sights I’ve seen in Southern California.
Strolling along Orange Avenue, I found myself exploring a mix of boutiques, ice cream shops, and cafés that gave the area such a joyful small-town vibe.
I loved how the wide, golden-sand beach stretched for miles—it’s often called one of the best in the country, and honestly, I can see why.
Watching the waves roll in while families set up picnics and kids built sandcastles made me appreciate how family-friendly this island truly is.
We stopped at the historic Hotel del Coronado (which just won the 2025 Preservation Design Award from the California Preservation Foundation). I could see why it won! The hotel felt like walking into living history, and its grand Victorian architecture was my favorite sight of the day.
I enjoyed sipping a cold drink on the terrace while gazing at the Pacific—it was an affordable little luxury that made me want to linger longer.
The bike path around the island was another highlight; riding with ocean breezes in my face made the experience both relaxing and exciting.
- Location: Map & Directions
As the sun set, the beach turned into a spectacular canvas of colors, and I couldn’t stop snapping photos of the glowing horizon.
For me, Coronado is the perfect weekend getaway near San Diego—a coastal gem that balances laid-back charm with unforgettable scenery.
While Coronado is family-friendly, holiday weekends and summers can draw a larger crowd. So if you’re looking for a peaceful, quiet retreat visiting during the colder season or during the week may be best.
4. Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is the quintessential Southern California coastal escape — perfect for a weekend getaway of sunshine, ocean air, and laid-back sophistication. Known for its beautiful stretch of sand, stylish boutiques, and excellent dining scene, it’s an easy drive from San Diego and ideal for couples or friends looking to unwind by the sea.
To get there, take I-5 North to I-405, then exit toward Manhattan Beach Boulevard. The drive takes a little over two hours, depending on traffic. Once you arrive, park near downtown or along the beach and explore the compact, walkable area on foot.
The heart of the city is Manhattan Beach Pier, where you can stroll out over the Pacific and visit the Roundhouse Aquarium at the end. The beach itself is perfect for volleyball or sunbathing, while The Strand, a scenic paved path along the ocean, is great for walking or biking past luxurious beachfront homes. For a bit of nature, Polliwog Park offers a peaceful retreat with a duck pond and gardens.
Dining here is a highlight — The Strand House serves refined coastal cuisine with ocean views, while Fishing with Dynamite is a beloved local spot for fresh oysters and seafood.
- Location: Map & Directions
For overnight stays, book one of the boutique hotels near the shore. 4-star Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach offers modern luxury, while 3-star Sea View Inn at the Beach provides a more relaxed, coastal vibe with easy access to the sand.
5. Escondido
Just a short drive northeast of San Diego, I found myself in Escondido, and it surprised me with how much there is to do in this vibrant inland city.
We started at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park which was a highlight for my son, and I loved how exciting it felt to see giraffes and rhinos roaming across expansive open landscapes—it was like stepping into another world.
Afterward, we strolled through downtown Escondido, where historic buildings mixed with cool cafés, art galleries, and local shops, giving the area a joyful small-town vibe.
I couldn’t resist stopping at one of the craft breweries, and sipping a fresh local beer while chatting with locals turned into one of my favorite moments of the day.
We drove up into the surrounding hills to check out some of the family-owned wineries, and the views of rolling vineyards and distant mountains were spectacular.
Hiking at Daley Ranch was another highlight; the trails wound through meadows and oak woodlands, and the peaceful setting felt like an affordable escape into nature.
We also visited Queen Califia’s Magical Circle, a whimsical sculpture garden tucked inside a park, and its colorful, mosaic-covered artwork was a true hidden gem.
As evening set in, we grabbed dinner downtown and I couldn’t stop thinking about how underrated this city is compared to more coastal destinations.
- Location: Map & Directions
Escondido struck me as both family-friendly and adventurous, offering something for everyone without the crowds of the beach towns.
For me, it’s an absolute best choice for a quick getaway near San Diego, full of unique experiences and welcoming charm.
6. Torrance
South of Los Angeles and not far from Redondo Beach, I spent a day exploring Torrance, and it turned out to be one of those underrated destinations I hadn’t expected to love so much.
We started at Torrance Beach, and I was struck by how peaceful it felt compared to other busy LA-area beaches—it quickly became one of my favorite coastal spots for a stroll.
Walking along the Strand, I loved the ocean breeze and wide-open views, and the relaxed energy made the experience so joyful.
Downtown Torrance surprised me with its historic buildings, antique shops, and cool breweries where we stopped for a cold pint and some local bites.
I found Wilson Park to be a gem, especially with its farmers market that was full of fresh produce, flowers, and handmade goods—it felt so vibrant and community-centered.
We made time for the Del Amo Fashion Center, and browsing through one of the largest malls in America was an exciting break when it got very hot on the beach outside.
Lunch at a ramen spot in the city’s well-known Japanese food scene was easily one of the most spectacular meals of the day.
Later in the afternoon, we explored Madrona Marsh, a preserved wetland tucked right into the city, and it felt like discovering a hidden sanctuary filled with birds and trails.
- Location: Map & Directions
As the sun set, Torrance Beach lit up with golden colors, and I thought about how affordable and easy this trip was compared to other coastal getaways.
For me, Torrance is a unique mix of city life and seaside calm, and I left already planning my next visit.
7. Fallbrook
About an hour north of San Diego, I drove into Fallbrook this month, a rural town known as the “Avocado Capital of the World,” and I instantly felt its peaceful, small-town charm.
We started the morning wandering through rolling hills dotted with avocado groves, and the views were absolutely spectacular against the bright blue California sky.
I loved how the pace felt slower here, and every stop—from farm stands to family-owned shops—brought such a joyful sense of community.
Downtown Fallbrook was a gem, with art galleries, antique stores, and cozy cafés that made me want to linger and explore every corner.
We visited the Fallbrook Art Center, and I thought it was one of the coolest small-town cultural spots I’ve discovered, showcasing local and regional talent in a creative way.
Later, we hiked around the Santa Margarita River Trail Preserve, and being surrounded by oak trees, flowing water, and quiet trails felt like an affordable escape into nature.
As the day ended, we caught the sunset over the countryside, and the golden light made the whole valley glow with magic.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, Fallbrook is an underrated getaway near San Diego, offering a unique mix of nature, art, and small-town warmth that feels unforgettable every time.
8. Carlsbad
Carlsbad is an easy coastal getaway from San Diego that feels like a mini vacation without the long drive. Known for its relaxed beach-town atmosphere, oceanfront trails, and charming downtown village, it’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a laid-back weekend escape by the water.
To get there, take I-5 North straight up the coast—it’s a quick and scenic 35-minute drive from San Diego. Once you arrive, you can park and explore the Carlsbad Village area entirely on foot, or hop on the Coaster train for a car-free trip.
Top things to do include strolling along the Carlsbad State Beach boardwalk, visiting the colorful Flower Fields in the spring expecially (but visiting during the rest of the year is still so much fun!), and exploring the boutiques, cafes, and art galleries that line Carlsbad Village Drive. If you’re visiting with kids (or just young at heart), LEGOLAND California Resort is one of the region’s must do attractions. Outdoor lovers will enjoy Batiquitos Lagoon, a peaceful 1.3 mile nature trail that’s perfect for birdwatching and sunset walks. Be sure to check out docent-led walks and ask lots of questions.
When it comes to food, Carlsbad’s dining scene balances casual beach fare with upscale coastal cuisine. Campfire is a local favorite known for its creative open-fire cooking and stylish vibe, while Jeune et Jolie, a Michelin-starred restaurant, serves elegant French-inspired dishes that look almost too beautiful to eat. For something casual, grab tacos from Señor Grubby’s or enjoy ocean views over breakfast at The Daily News Café which I thought was my personal highlight.
- Location: Map & Directions
Stay overnight at one of the charming boutique hotels or beach resorts. Cape Rey Carlsbad Beach offers ocean views and spa amenities, while Carlsbad Inn Beach Resort provides a cozy, walkable base right in the heart of the village.
9. Fullerton
About 90 minutes north of San Diego, I found myself in Fullerton, a city that felt like a hidden gem tucked into Orange County with so much to discover.
We started downtown, and I loved the lively mix of historic storefronts, cool coffee shops, and restaurants that gave the area a joyful, walkable energy.
We explored the Fullerton Museum Center, and the exhibits—especially the ones about music and culture—felt both unique and engaging.
Fuoco Pizzeria Napoletana is a great spot for lunch, serving incredible pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven that reaches nearly 1,000°F, built by artisan Stefano Ferrara using volcanic sand from Mt. Vesuvius and Italian stone.
We spent part of the afternoon at Hillcrest Park, where winding trails, shady trees, and scenic overlooks created a spectacular place to relax and enjoy nature.
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center was another highlight for me, with its Spanish Colonial-style architecture and art displays that made the visit feel like stepping into a different time.
- Location: Map & Directions
Later in the day, we drove to Craig Regional Park, where families picnicked under the oaks, and the lake reflected the golden glow of the setting sun.
Walking back downtown for dinner, I noticed how the city combined history and modern energy in such a cool, balanced way.
For me, Fullerton is an affordable and exciting weekend getaway, offering a unique blend of culture, food, and outdoor spaces that makes every visit memorable.
10. Laguna Beach - 1 Hour and 15 Minutes from San Diego
Laguna Beach is one of Southern California’s most beautiful coastal escapes — a perfect weekend getaway for art lovers, ocean enthusiasts, and anyone craving a dose of seaside tranquility. With its dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and creative spirit, this beach town blends natural beauty with a laid-back yet upscale vibe.
To get there, take I-5 North toward Orange County, then exit onto CA-133 South directly into Laguna Beach. The drive takes just over an hour, though you’ll want to allow extra time to stop and enjoy the ocean views along the way. Once you arrive, you can easily explore most of the town on foot or via the free local trolley.
The best things to do include spending time at Main Beach, the lively heart of town, or seeking out quieter coves like Thousand Steps Beach and Shaw’s Cove. Art fans will love the Laguna Art Museum, as well as the many galleries along Forest Avenue. If you visit in summer, the Pageant of the Masters and Sawdust Art Festival are must-see cultural experiences that showcase the town’s artistic soul.
Laguna’s dining scene is as impressive as its views. For oceanfront elegance, Driftwood Kitchen and Las Brisas are long-time favorites, while Nick’s Laguna Beach serves up modern California cuisine in a relaxed yet polished setting. For a casual breakfast or coffee, Zinc Café is a beloved local spot.
- Location: Map & Directions
Stay in the heart of town for easy access to the beach and shops. Casa Laguna Hotel & Spa offers Spanish Revival charm with luxurious touches, while Surf & Sand Resort sits right on the water, where you can fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves.
Conclusion
After exploring so many different Southern California towns, I realized each day trip offered something special. What I loved most was how every destination felt unique, with its own energy, scenery, and experiences that made the journey just as rewarding as the arrival.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
