🌴 San Diego 3-Day Travel Itinerary

Planning a quick getaway to sunny San Diego? Here’s a 3-day baby-friendly itinerary that balances coffee shops, beach time, iconic views, and delicious eats.

📍 Day 1: Explore the City

• Morning: Kick things off at Communal Coffee – one of the cutest coffee shops in town with floral vibes and delicious drinks.

• Afternoon: Stroll the Embarcadero Marina, pop into local shops, and soak up those harbor views.

• Evening: Wander through Balboa Park, home to gardens, museums, and stunning architecture.

  
  

  📍 Day 2: Beaches + Local Eats

• Morning: Take a walk through Downtown San Diego, checking out the Gaslamp Quarter and waterfront.

• Afternoon: Head north to Torrey Pines Natural Reserve for a scenic hike, then relax at Bird Rock Beach.

• Evening: Grab wood-fired pizza and local beers at Wheat + Water in La Jolla.

📍 Day 3: Coastal Highlights

• Morning: Sip on a craft latte at Porter Coffee Shop.

• Afternoon: Do a beach-hop: Sunset Cliffs, La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Coronado State Beach.

• Evening: Enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel or try a beachside spot nearby.

🍴 Where to Eat & Drink in San Diego

Our favorites:

• Wheat + Water (La Jolla)

• Communal Coffee

• Porter Coffee Shop

• Clayton’s Coffee Shop (Coronado)

10 more spots worth checking out:

1. The Cottage La Jolla – classic breakfast/brunch.

2. Morning Glory – trendy, pink-themed breakfast spot.

3. Better Buzz Coffee – a San Diego staple.

4. Ironside Fish & Oyster – great seafood in Little Italy.

5. Born & Raised – stylish steakhouse.

6. Hodad’s – iconic burgers in Ocean Beach.

7. Point Loma Seafoods – fresh catch with marina views.

8. Juniper & Ivy – creative dishes in Little Italy.

9. Crack Shack – fried chicken sandwiches.

10. Old Town Mexican Café – handmade tortillas + authentic Mexican food.

    
    

🏨 Where to Stay

We based ourselves in Miramar just outside the city, but there are plenty of options depending on your vibe:

• Stay downtown for easy access to shops + nightlife.

• Book near the beaches (La Jolla, Mission Beach, Coronado) for ocean views.

• Stay closer to Torrey Pines if you’re all about hiking and coastal nature.

✨ Tips & Tricks for Visiting San Diego

• Baby-Friendly: Don’t miss Waterfront Park – the splash pads and green space are perfect for kids.

• Parking: Use SpotHero to find affordable parking across the city.

• Photo Spots: Pack your camera for Coronado Beach, Torrey Pines, and Sunset Cliffs – some of the best views in Southern California.