San Diego long-weekend getaway: A 4-day itinerary for adventure and relaxation
With some of the country’s most enviable weather, a thriving beach scene, and fresh seafood, this laid-back Southern California city is the ideal escape for your entire group.
By Alina Dizik | July 28, 2023 (Updated October 23, 2025)
Bustling but without the hectic pace of its northern neighbors Los Angeles and San Francisco, Southern California's San Diego is known for its picture-perfect Pacific Ocean views and fresh Baja California cuisine (and plenty of craft beer to wash it down). Combine that with an enviable nightlife scene, Instagram-worthy street art, and plenty of water activities, and it’s the ideal spot for a memorable long weekend getaway. Traveling with family or friends? Consider this group-friendly San Diego itinerary to get you started.
Friday
Morning
Arrive in San Diego and drop your bags at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines — your home away from home for the weekend. Then gather your group and head to Balboa Park to explore 1,200 acres (485 hectares) of greenery, museums, a carousel, and even a golf course. Enter the park through the historic Cabrillo Bridge, which offers sweeping views of city vistas and airplanes landing at the nearby airport.
Afternoon
After immersing yourself in Balboa Park’s most famous gardens, pick a scenic picnic spot on the East Lawn across from the park’s lily pond and lagoon. Not to worry if you didn’t plan ahead. The Market Place (located just a block away from your hotel) has lots of delicious, grab-and-go treats on offer.
Evening
Take your group to an early dinner at El Agave Restaurant and Tequileria for Mexican cuisine and a festive atmosphere. Return to your hotel for sunset views at Torreyana Lounge, where you can relax outdoors near the firepits with cocktails in hand.
Saturday
Morning
Start the day at the Little Italy Mercato farmers market. With more than 150 vendors, it’s the ideal Saturday morning spot for a fresh and satisfying breakfast. Or get your goodies to go and take in the views from nearby Waterfront Park.
Afternoon
The San Diego Zoo, a 100-acre (40-hectare) wildlife park that’s home to 14,000 rare and endangered animals, is the city’s most famous attraction. It’s known for its koala breeding colony — one of the largest outside of Australia — as well as rare animals including giraffe-like okapis, the Galapagos giant tortoise, and California condors.
Evening
After a day of discovery, lounge at the resort’s outdoor pool or play a round of golf at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, which is situated on the 18th hole of the world-famous championship Torrey Pines Golf Course. Once hunger sets in, head out to Herb & Wood for a Mediterranean-inspired meal including wood-fired octopus, branzino, and steak.
Sunday
Morning
After grabbing a quick breakfast at Horizons Coffee Café, it’s time to hit the water. Drive to Coronado Island, a peninsula in the San Diego Bay with a resort-like feel. Connected via a bridge to downtown San Diego, it’s known for wide sandy beaches, many with lifeguards and ideal swimming conditions.
Afternoon
Drive back to the city and refuel at Lola 55. The East Village taqueria is known for its Baja California fish taco featuring local fish, remoulade, and a chorizo-tomato vinaigrette. Next, walk through the downtown neighborhood for a mix of rooftop bars and restaurants, and explore the prominent public art and colorful murals by female artists.
Evening
Tap into your inner beer connoisseur and check out the city’s busy craft beer scene. The North Park neighborhood offers some of San Diego’s top local beers. While it’s impossible to taste them all, don’t miss local standouts from North Park Beer Company, Original 40 Brewing Company, and Rip Current Brewing North Park.
Monday
Morning
Before leaving town, be sure to stop by the historic Gaslamp Quarter for brunch. Those with a sweet tooth can opt for Café 21’s famous Dutch pancakes topped with banana caramel or blueberries. A sprinkle of powdered sugar completes the delicious dish.
Afternoon
Be sure to check out the neighborhood’s many galleries, museums, and boutiques and find the perfect SoCal souvenir. Shop local to truly bring home a piece of the city.
Until next time!
It’s time to pack up and head for home. With so many vibrant neighborhoods to explore, fresh cuisine, and plenty of time to indulge in endless beach adventures, a long weekend getaway in San Diego is sure to leave you making plans to return.
Alina Dizik
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends, and dining. She lives in Chicago and has previously lived in New York, Europe, and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. Alina has visited more than 50 countries, and her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian, and other top publications.
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