A Southern California coastal city near the Mexican border, with mild weather and beaches year-round; famous for the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park and fish tacos.
Summer crowds thin and the ocean is warm — good for beaches and outdoor days. source
March–May
Cool, clear days for the zoo and Balboa Park. source
Weather: Mild all year; September–November and March–May are clear and pleasant, while May–June often brings morning coastal fog (“June Gloom”). source
Times to avoid: In October the zoo and USS Midway have run kids-free offers; families should check the official sites. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in San Diego
San Diego Zoo The world-famous zoo in Balboa Park; the 1-Day Pass includes the guided bus tour and Skyfari aerial tram. source
Balboa Park A vast park of Spanish-style buildings, museums and gardens; the park, Botanical Building and most gardens are free. source
USS Midway Museum A retired aircraft carrier on the harbour: aircraft on the flight deck and life below decks. source
Where to stay in San Diego
Downtown / Gaslamp Quarter
The dining and nightlife centre, close to the airport bus and trolley.
Little Italy
Closest to the airport, with restaurants and a weekend market.
What to eat in San Diego
Fish Tacos — Baja-style battered or grilled fish in a tortilla — San Diego’s unofficial mascot
California Burrito — Carne asada, fries, cheese and guacamole in a flour tortilla
Carne Asada Fries — Fries topped with carne asada, guacamole, sour cream and cheese
San Diego tips and things to watch out for
San Diego travel tips
Menu prices exclude 7.75% sales tax and tip; an 18–20% tip is usual. source
Airport to city: MTS Route 992 runs from the terminals to downtown near Santa Fe Depot in about 15 minutes at the regular fare. source
Good to know in United States
In the US, sales tax may be added to the displayed price depending on the place and product. Check a restaurant menu for extra charges before ordering. source
In LA, both public transit and ride-hailing are available. Check Metro routes and ride-hail pickup points before moving between sights. source
Watch out for in United States
Car break-ins are common; never leave bags or anything visible in a parked car. source
In unfamiliar parts of the US, avoid walking alone through quiet areas, especially at night. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for San Diego are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in United States.
San Diego attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
San Diego Zoo 1-Day Pass (Adult): $78.00 · child $68.00
USS Midway Museum (Adult): $39.00 ~ $41.00 · child $29.00 ~ $31.00