San Diego Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel & Logistics
Q: Do I need to rent a car in San Diego?
A: It depends. San Diego is spread out, so a car is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple neighborhoods like La Jolla, Coronado, and North County (Carlsbad, Encinitas). If you’re sticking to the downtown area (Gaslamp, Little Italy, Balboa Park, airport), you can get by with rideshares and public transit, but parking can be expensive at hotels.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit San Diego?
A: San Diego has beautiful weather year-round. For the warmest weather and best beach days, visit from August to October. To avoid crowds and get better hotel rates, go in early March or late September to November.
Q: What is “June Gloom”?
A: “June Gloom” is a local term for the overcast, cloudy weather that often blankets the coast in late spring and early summer. It can last all day or burn off by the afternoon. The weather is still warm, but don’t expect bright sunshine every morning.
Q: How do I get from the airport to downtown?
A: The airport is very close to downtown, about 2 miles. A rideshare (Uber/Lyft) is a quick and easy option.
Q: Where should I stay in San Diego?
A: Gaslamp Quarter for nightlife, Pacific Beach (PB) for a younger crowd and beach access, La Jolla for a more upscale “bougie” vibe, or Coronado for a charming, family-friendly island feel.
Q: Is public transportation good in San Diego?
A: It’s okay, but not as comprehensive as cities like NYC or SF. The Coaster train is a great way to travel between North County beach towns and downtown. The trolley system serves some major areas, but a car or rideshare is often necessary to get to attractions outside of the immediate downtown and beach zones.
Q: What are the best beaches in San Diego?
A: It depends on what you want. La Jolla Shores for kayaking/snorkeling, Mission Beach for a lively boardwalk, Pacific Beach for a party atmosphere, and Coronado Beach for a wide, beautiful sandy beach.
Top Attractions & Things to Do
Q: What are the must-do attractions for a first-time visitor?
A: Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, La Jolla Cove (to see the seals and sea lions), the USS Midway Museum, and strolling through the Gaslamp Quarter and Little Italy.
Q: Is the San Diego Zoo worth the price?
A: Yes, overwhelmingly. It’s consistently rated one of the best zoos in the world, with impressive natural habitats and a huge variety of animals.
Q: How much time should I set aside for Balboa Park?
A: At least a full day. You could easily spend a day at the Zoo and another exploring the gardens and museums. The park is vast and has many attractions.
Q: Which museums in Balboa Park are best for kids?
A: The Fleet Science Center is very hands-on and popular. The San Diego Natural History Museum is also a great option.
Q: What is there to do at La Jolla Cove?
A: See the seals and sea lions at the Children’s Pool, walk along the coastal path, go tide pooling (at low tide), or take a kayaking tour of the sea caves.
Q: Is SeaWorld worth visiting?
A: Reviews are mixed. Some people enjoy the shows and rides, while others find it expensive and prefer the more educational and conservation-focused San Diego Zoo or Safari Park.
Q: What is the difference between the San Diego Zoo and the Safari Park?
A: The Zoo is a classic zoo with a variety of animals and is located in Balboa Park. The Safari Park (formerly the Wild Animal Park) is located inland in Escondido and features large, open-range exhibits where animals roam freely.
Q: Is the USS Midway Museum worth it?
A: Yes, if you have an interest in naval history. Visitors say it’s an incredible, immersive experience with a self-guided audio tour and plenty of interactive exhibits.
Q: How should I spend a day on Coronado Island?
A: Take the ferry over, rent a bike to ride around the island, explore the Hotel Del Coronado, and relax on the beach.
Q: What is a hidden gem in San Diego?
A: Some lesser-known spots mentioned by locals include Annie’s Canyon Trail in Solana Beach, the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista, and the Spruce Street Suspension Bridge.
Q: What’s a good place for a scenic hike?
A: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers scenic trails with stunning coastal views.
Q: Where can I see a great sunset?
A: Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is a popular spot. Other recommendations include Kate Sessions Park or anywhere along the coast.
Q: What’s a good activity for a rainy day?
A: The museums at Balboa Park (like the Fleet Science Center or the San Diego Museum of Art), the USS Midway Museum, or a trip to a local brewery.
Q: Is Legoland worth the drive to Carlsbad?
A: Yes, if you have kids aged 2-12. It’s specifically designed for that age group and includes a main park, a water park, and an aquarium.
Q: Should I visit Old Town?
A: Old Town can be touristy, but it’s a fun and historical area to explore. It’s known for its Mexican restaurants and souvenir shops.
Q: What can I do for free in San Diego?
A: Go to the beach, walk around Balboa Park, explore the seals at La Jolla Cove, hike Torrey Pines, or visit the free museums on Tuesdays if you are a San Diego resident.
Q: Are there any good whale watching tours?
A: Yes, there are several companies offering tours. Winter and spring are the best times to see gray whales, and summer is ideal for blue whales.
Food & Drink
Q: What is the quintessential San Diego food?
A: The California Burrito (with carne asada, French fries, cheese, and sour cream) and fish tacos.
Q: What are the best places for Mexican food?
A: This is a hotly debated topic! Tacos El Gordo is a fan favorite for Tijuana-style tacos. Other top recommendations include Las Cuatro Milpas, Ed Fernandez for Birria, and Cotixan Mexican Food.
Q: Where can I find good fish tacos?
A: The Fish Shop, Blue Water Seafood & Grill, and Mitch’s Seafood are frequently mentioned for excellent fresh seafood.
Q: What’s a good place for breakfast/brunch?
A: Morning Glory (known for its pink, Instagrammable decor), Great Maple, and Cafe 21. For a more casual vibe, Kono’s Cafe in Pacific Beach is a classic.
Q: Where can I get a great burger?
A: The Friendly (specifically for their “dirty flat top” burger) and The Balboa.
Q: Is Little Italy worth visiting for a meal?
A: Yes. While some say it’s more of a couple of streets with sub-par restaurants, others rave about spots like Piacere Mio, Herb & Wood, and Mona Lisa Deli (for sandwiches).
Q: What’s the best high-end restaurant in San Diego?
A: Many locals recommend Addison, a Michelin-starred restaurant, for a special occasion. Other high-end spots include Callie and Juniper & Ivy.
Q: What is the best place for a date night?
A: Nine-Ten, The Marine Room (for a special occasion with ocean views), or one of the many speakeasies and cocktail bars.
Q: Where can I find good craft beer?
A: San Diego is known as a craft beer mecca. Stone Brewing (especially the Liberty Station location), Ballast Point, and Modern Times are popular. Many neighborhoods like North Park are full of smaller breweries and taprooms.
Q: What’s the best ice cream or dessert spot?
A: Stella Jean’s, Sunday, An’s Gelato, and Bobboi’s Natural Gelato are highly-rated.
Family-Friendly Activities
Q: Besides the Zoo and SeaWorld, what else can I do with kids?
A: Belmont Park in Mission Beach (with rides and an arcade), the New Children’s Museum, the Fleet Science Center, and tide pooling at La Jolla Cove or Point Loma.
Q: Are there good playgrounds in San Diego?
A: Yes. Tecolote Shores in Mission Bay is a favorite. Civita Park also has a great playground and a splash pad.
Q: What’s a fun, low-cost activity with a child?
A: Flying kites, riding bikes, visiting local parks with playgrounds, or just a day at the beach playing in the sand and water.
Q: Is the Birch Aquarium good for kids?
A: Yes, it’s a great option for a calmer, more educational experience compared to SeaWorld. It’s smaller, less expensive, and has interactive exhibits.
Neighborhoods
Q: What’s the vibe in the Gaslamp Quarter?
A: It’s a lively, bustling downtown neighborhood known for its nightlife, with a wide variety of clubs, bars, and restaurants.
Q: What’s Little Italy like?
A: It has a vibrant, lively atmosphere with a focus on Italian cuisine, a popular farmers market, and many shops and cafes.
Q: What’s the difference between Pacific Beach (PB) and Mission Beach?
A: They share a boardwalk. PB is known for a younger, party crowd, while Mission Beach is a little more residential and is home to Belmont Park.
Q: Is North Park a good neighborhood to visit?
A: Yes. It’s known for its hip, local vibe with a great food scene, craft breweries, and unique shops.
Practical Advice
Q: Where can I find the best parking?
A: Parking can be a challenge. In Coronado, parking is said to be easier than in downtown. Many visitors recommend taking a ferry or rideshare to avoid parking hassles.
Q: What should I pack for a trip to San Diego?
A: Layers! Even in summer, evenings and mornings can be cool. A light jacket or sweatshirt is a must. Don’t forget a bathing suit and sunscreen.
Q: Are there any good day trips from San Diego?
A: Julian (a mountain town known for apple pie), Temecula (for wineries), and La Jolla are popular day trip destinations.
More Questions & Answers
Q: What’s the best way to get to Coronado Island without driving? A: Take the ferry from the downtown Embarcadero. It’s a fun ride and offers great views of the skyline.
Q: Where can I see seals and sea lions? A: The best place is La Jolla Cove and the Children’s Pool.
Q: Is there a good spot for a picnic with a view? A: Harbor Island has sweeping views of the downtown skyline. The lawn in front of the Botanical Building in Balboa Park is also a popular spot.
Q: Are there any good farmers markets? A: The Little Italy Mercato on Saturdays is a must-visit. The Ocean Beach Farmers Market on Wednesdays is also a favorite.
Q: Can I go tide pooling year-round? A: You can, but it’s best to check the tide charts and go during a low tide. The tide pools at Cabrillo National Monument and La Jolla Cove are excellent.
Q: What’s the best place for a casual seafood meal? A: Mitch’s Seafood is a beloved counter-service spot on the marina with great views.
Q: Is there a good spot for a scenic bike ride? A: The path around Mission Bay is flat and great for a leisurely ride. You can also rent bikes in Coronado and ride the path along the beach.
Q: What is a “Taco Tuesday”? A: It’s a weekly tradition in San Diego where many taco shops offer specials on tacos and drinks.
Q: Where can I find good hiking trails? A: Besides Torrey Pines, Potato Chip Rock (Mt. Woodson) is a challenging but popular hike for its famous photo op. Cowles Mountain is another popular, accessible hike with great views.
Q: What’s a good kid-friendly restaurant? A: Panama 66 in Balboa Park is great because kids can run around on the lawn while parents relax. Many of the casual taco shops are also very kid-friendly.
Q: Can I swim at all the beaches in San Diego? A: Most of them, but be aware of the conditions. Some beaches, like the Children’s Pool in La Jolla, are more for viewing the seals than for swimming. Always check for surf and safety conditions.
Q: What’s the best way to experience downtown nightlife? A: Head to the Gaslamp Quarter and walk around. There are many bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. A food and drink tour is also an option.
Q: Is there a good place to see the city skyline? A: The view from Harbor Island is excellent, especially at night. Another great vantage point is from the Cabrillo National Monument.
Q: Are there any unique experiences I can have in San Diego? A: Take a kayaking tour of the sea caves in La Jolla, try paragliding at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, or take a sunset cruise on the bay.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Coronado Island? A: Biking is a popular way to explore. The island is flat and has dedicated bike paths.
Q: What is the best pizza place in San Diego? A: Bronx Pizza is a local favorite for classic New York-style slices. Regents Pizzeria is also popular and offers both NY and Chicago deep-dish.
Q: Where can I find good ramen? A: Underbelly and Tajima are frequently mentioned as top spots for ramen.
Q: What’s a good place for a solo traveler? A: San Diego is very safe and easy to navigate alone. You can easily join a tour, explore the museums, or relax at a beach.
Q: What’s the best way to see the bay? A: A narrated harbor cruise is a great way to learn about the history and see the sights.
Q: Are there any unique souvenir shops? A: Seaport Village has a collection of unique shops and is a nice place to stroll.
Q: Is San Diego family-friendly? A: Absolutely. It is known as a very family-friendly destination with attractions like the Zoo, SeaWorld, Legoland, and miles of beaches.
Q: What’s the best way to see the city on a budget? A: Focus on the many free activities like the beaches and Balboa Park. Pack your own food and use a mix of public transit and rideshares.
Q: What’s a good area to stay if I want to be able to walk everywhere? A: Little Italy, the Gaslamp Quarter, or Pacific Beach are good options if you want to be able to walk to restaurants and attractions.
Q: Is Coronado expensive? A: It can be. The Hotel del Coronado is a famous and pricey landmark. Restaurants and shops can also be on the higher end, but there are more affordable options.
Q: What’s a good spot for a quick, casual lunch? A: A taco shop for a California Burrito, or Rubicon Deli for a great sandwich.
Q: Is there a place where I can see tide pools? A: Cabrillo National Monument and the La Jolla Tide Pools are the most popular spots.
Q: What’s the best place for a coffee? A: You’ll find many local cafes in neighborhoods like North Park and Little Italy. Mostra Coffee is a local favorite.
Q: What’s the best way to get to La Jolla? A: A car or rideshare is the most common way. It’s about a 20-30 minute drive from downtown San Diego.
Q: Are there any good spots for a beer with a view? A: Stone Brewing in Liberty Station has a large patio and a great atmosphere. The Green Flash in Pacific Beach is also a good option.
Q: Is the USS Midway Museum good for kids? A: Yes, kids love the interactive exhibits and the chance to explore a real aircraft carrier.
Q: Where can I find good vegetarian or vegan options? A: San Diego’s food scene is very vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Many restaurants in neighborhoods like North Park and Hillcrest offer a variety of choices.
Q: Are there any good places to see live music? A: The Gaslamp Quarter has a great live music scene. The Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach is a well-known venue that draws national acts.
Q: How can I save money on attractions? A: Consider the “Go San Diego” pass if you plan to visit multiple attractions. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park also offer a combo pass.
Q: What’s a good place for a quiet, relaxing day? A: The Japanese Friendship Garden or the Botanical Building in Balboa Park, or a stroll through a less-crowded beach like Windansea.
Q: What’s the best place for a romantic sunset? A: Sunset Cliffs is the classic romantic spot. The rooftop bars in the Gaslamp Quarter also offer great views.
Q: Is the city walkable? A: Downtown neighborhoods like the Gaslamp and Little Italy are very walkable. However, the city as a whole is sprawling and requires a car to get from one area to another.
Q: Where can I find good shopping? A: UTC and Fashion Valley are two large outdoor malls. For more boutique shopping, check out neighborhoods like North Park and South Park.
Q: Are there any good spots for a day of kayaking? A: Kayaking in La Jolla Shores is a popular activity, especially for tours that go to the sea caves.
Q: What’s a good place for a nice view of the ocean while dining? A: Peohe’s in Coronado or The Marine Room in La Jolla. For something more casual, Mitch’s Seafood.
Q: What’s a good place for a quick dinner before a Padres game? A: Petco Park is located in the Gaslamp Quarter, which is full of restaurants. There are many options right outside the stadium.
Q: What’s the best way to see the Coronado Bridge? A: The best view is from the ferry or a harbor cruise. You can also get a good view from a car as you drive over it.
Q: What is the best place for a solo dinner? A: Little Italy has many restaurants with counter-style seating, or you can grab a sandwich from Mona Lisa Deli.
Q: What are the best happy hour spots? A: The Gaslamp Quarter has many options. Cowboy Star is mentioned for its great happy hour.
Q: How far is San Diego from Los Angeles? A: About 2 hours by car without traffic, but can be much longer due to congestion. A day trip is possible, but many say there’s enough to do in San Diego to stay there for the whole trip.
Q: What are the best places for a run or jog? A: The boardwalk that connects Mission Beach and Pacific Beach is a great flat path with ocean views. Balboa Park also has many trails.
Q: Is San Diego safe for tourists? A: Yes, San Diego is generally considered a very safe city, especially in the major tourist areas. As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Q: What are the best photo spots? A: The Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, the coastline at La Jolla Cove, the Hotel Del Coronado, and Sunset Cliffs.
Q: What’s the best way to see Balboa Park? A: Park in one spot and walk. The park is very pedestrian-friendly and you can get a good feel for the architecture and gardens by strolling.
Q: What is a good casual place to eat with a family? A: The Liberty Public Market in Liberty Station is a great choice with many food vendors, so everyone can get what they want.
Q: What are the best spots for a coffee and pastry? A: Azúcar, a Cuban cafe in Ocean Beach, is highly recommended for its delicious pastries.
Q: Is it easy to find parking in downtown San Diego? A: It can be difficult and expensive. Parking garages are your best bet.
Q: Is it worth visiting the Cabrillo National Monument? A: Yes, it offers stunning views of the city, the bay, and the ocean. It’s also a great spot for history buffs.
Q: What’s the best place for a romantic dinner? A: The Prado at Balboa Park is a beautiful restaurant with a romantic atmosphere.
Q: How can I experience the local culture? A: Visit local neighborhoods like North Park or South Park, eat at a mom-and-pop taco shop, and check out a farmers market.
Q: Is San Diego a good place for a bachelorette or bachelor party? A: Yes, the Gaslamp Quarter is a popular destination for nightlife, and the beaches offer a fun daytime atmosphere.