How to Spend 48 Hours Exploring San Diego

San Diego is a dreamy kind of travel destination. Located in the southwestern corner of California, on the coast of the Pacific Ocean near the Mexican border, it’s the kind of place where people visit once and stay forever. If you think a weekend in San Diego is all about hanging out at the beach, eating tacos and drinking beer, then well, you wouldn’t be wrong. This city offers 70 miles of coastline, a picturesque harbor and plenty of excellent food and drink options. However, San Diego is more than just a pretty face; it’s a city with heart. Known as the birthplace of California, San Diego has been attracting a diverse mix of people since the establishment of its first mission in 1769. This city is rich with heritage, which is clear considering its many cultural institutions and museums. San Diego can be relied on for a good time with lots to do, mild year-round weather and friendly locals.

How to Spend 48 Hours Exploring San Diego

Courtesy of sandiego.org

Day One in San Diego

Morning at the Beach

Start your vacation with a relaxing trip to the beach. San Diego is divided into six beach regions, including Coronado, La Jolla, Mission Bay and Beaches, North County Coastal, South Bay and Point Loma, Harbor Island and Shelter Island. Generally speaking, you can’t really go wrong with any of them, and if time allows, its best to check out a few, since each one has its own unique vibe.

Coronado Beach, courtesy of sandiego.org; photo by Brett Shoaf

If you only have one day to play in the ocean, check out Coronado Beach. This area offers quintessential views of the coastline making it perfect for first-time visitors. Find a nice spot near the iconic Hotel del Coronado, which was featured in the 1959 classic film “Some Like It Hot” starring Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis. From swimming to surfing, there are plenty of family-friendly beach activities to keep busy. Take a break from the water with a stroll along Orange Avenue to explore the shops and restaurants. Then, stop for a pint of beer at Coronado Brewing Company. Coronado is also a popular stop on the Old Town Trolley Tour and can be accessed from downtown using the Coronado Ferry or a water taxi.

La Jolla, courtesy of sandiego.org; photo Joanne DiBona

La Jolla Cove Beach is another excellent choice for enjoying the water, sand and sun in San Diego. La Jolla is a beautiful seaside village with relaxed high-end style. The surrounding area offers luxury shopping and plenty of fine dining options.

Afternoon Enjoying Fish Tacos

A trip to San Diego would not be complete without sampling the fish tacos. Inspired by Mexico’s Baja region, this dish is traditionally made using lightly-battered fish and corn tortillas topped with cabbage, fresh salsa, cream sauce and a lime wedge. For excellent fish tacos, check out George’s at the Cove, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood and the Taco Stand.

Oscar’s Tacos, courtesy of sandiego.org; photo by Christian Martinez

Evening in the Gaslamp Quarter

Once home to San Diego’s red light district in the late 1800s, the Gaslamp Quarter is a historical section of downtown. Now, this neighborhood, covering 16 ½ blocks, offers more than 100 restaurants, 90 historic buildings, 40 bars and nightclubs and 100 retail shops, as well as theaters and art galleries. The Gaslamp Quarter is the perfect spot to enjoy an evening out on the town. You’ll find some of San Diego’s best restaurants in the Gaslamp Quarter. Check out Searsucker for new American comfort food by chef Brian Malarkey, former finalist on Bravo’s Top Chef 3 Miami. Also, Rustic Root is an excellent option for delicious food, specialty cocktails and a rooftop bar.

Courtesy of sandiego.org; photo by Melanie Stocker

Day Two in San Diego

Morning in Balboa Park

Take a break from the beach with a trip to Balboa Park. This centrally located area features museums, galleries, performing arts venues and the San Diego Zoo. There are 17 museums in the park, including the San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego Air & Space Museum and San Diego Automotive Museum. The park also features the Spanish Village Art Center, a cluster of buildings and courtyards built in 1935 to resemble a Spanish-style town. Today, this area features studio and gallery spaces for more than 250 artists. Visitors can tour some of the art spaces, view art demonstrations and talk with local artists.

Balboa Park, courtesy of sandiego.org

Afternoon Enjoying Local Beer

Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens – Liberty Station celebrates the venue’s prior history as a U.S. Navy mess hall, while introducing new industrial and organic features. Known for having bold, flavorful and largely hop-centric beers, Stone Brewing has earned a global following of dedicated fans. Their expansive Liberty Station restaurant features indoor and outdoor dining and bars, as well as a bocce ball court, outdoor cinema space and garden. The bar features 40 taps of craft beers, including Stone Brewing’s year-round and special release selections. The drink menu also features an extensive bottle list of craft and specialty beers from around the world.

How to Spend 48 Hours Exploring San Diego

Courtesy of Stone Brewing Co.

Evening in Old Town

Visitors should also spend some time in Old Town, one of San Diego’s oldest settled areas. Now, Old Town is home to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park and Presidio Park. Make sure to visit Old Town on an empty stomach, since this neighborhood is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. Old Town restaurants offer plenty of delicious food and tequila-infused cocktails. Check out El Agave, a second-floor hacienda-style eatery serving classic Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos and enchiladas. Other notable dining options include Café Coyote and Tahona Bar.