FUN • Oct 1st '26

San Diego for a Long Weekend: Beaches, Balboa Park and Little Italy

San Diego has a reputation for perfect weather, and it mostly deserves it. Fall is one of the best times to visit: the summer crowds are gone, and September and October are often some of the warmest, sunniest months of the year at the beach. Here's how to spend a long weekend.

Day 1: La Jolla

Start at La Jolla Cove, where sea lions and harbor seals lounge on the rocks just steps from the sidewalk. (Admire them from a distance; they're wild animals.) Walk the coastal path, kayak to the sea caves, or snorkel if the water is calm. Then explore the village's shops and restaurants and stay for sunset over the cliffs.

Day 2: Balboa Park and Little Italy

Balboa Park is one of the country's great city parks, with beautiful Spanish-style buildings, gardens and more than a dozen museums. Don't miss the Botanical Building and its lily pond. The San Diego Zoo is also in the park if you want a full day. In the evening, head to Little Italy for dinner. On Saturdays, its Mercato farmers market is a local favorite.

Day 3: Coronado and Sunset Cliffs

Drive over the bridge (or take the ferry) to Coronado, where the wide, sparkling beach sits in front of the historic Hotel del Coronado. Rent bikes and ride around the island, then grab lunch on Orange Avenue. End the trip at Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma, which is exactly what it sounds like.

More Ideas

Old Town San Diego: history, Mexican food and colorful shops.
The Gaslamp Quarter: downtown nightlife, rooftop bars and restaurants.
North County: laid-back beach towns like Encinitas and Carlsbad.

What to Pack

Beach days, garden walks and nice dinners: pack a swimsuit, sandals, comfortable sneakers, a couple of easy dresses and a light jacket. Mornings can start out gray near the coast before the sun burns through.

Hours, prices and events change often, so check official websites before you go.

More California getaways: Palm Springs · Santa Barbara · Laguna Beach · Carmel-by-the-Sea · Los Angeles · Hermosa Beach · Catalina Island