San Diego: Day Trips and Tours from Los Angeles

Sunny San Diego, Los Angeles’s laid-back neighbor to the south, makes for an exciting getaway from the “City of Angels.” Head down the Pacific Coast Highway from L.A. to San Diego for a day of food, culture, natural beauty and fun.

A San Diego day trip from Los Angeles will be an outing packed with variety. It’s tempting to spend a whole day at locales like Balboa Park or the Embarcadero. With so much to see in this colorful city, you’ll definitely be back.

Here's all you need to know about visiting San Diego, one of the most exciting day trips from Los Angeles.

How to get to San Diego from Los Angeles?

San Diego lies about 200 kilometers south of Los Angeles. Travel time ranges from 2 to 3 hours depending on current traffic.

From Los Angeles to San Diego by car

There are several driving routes from L.A. to San Diego that provide some options for when traffic is at its worst. The shortest drive is by I-5 S. Take I-5 S for 192 kilometers, a drive of about 2 hours. Exit at Cedar St. (exit 17) in San Diego.

From Los Angeles to San Diego by public transport

While taking public transport adds up to an hour of travel time to your journey, there are bus and train routes that eliminate your need for your own vehicle in this car-centric city.

The most reliable option is by the Pacific Surfliner train. Pick up the 770 San Diego train at L.A.’s Union Station. The ride is about 3 hours. Disembark at San Diego’s Santa Fe Station.

Guided tour to San Diego from Los Angeles

Taking on transportation in Southern California can quickly sour your mood on a day trip. Avoid rental cars and train stations with a guided tour to San Diego from Los Angeles.

Sit back and soak in the scenery with a driver-guide who will narrate your journey. Reach the best sites in San Diego with ease on an 8- to 10-hour guided tour.

What is the typical itinerary of a San Diego day trip?

Meet your driver-guide at about 8:30 AM for your 2-hour drive south. Some tours offer pickup at Orange County accommodations, and others require you to meet at points like the Los Angeles Cruise Terminal or Los Angeles International Airport.

You may need to arrange your own transportation to other meeting points south of town, like San Clemente or Dana Point.

Hop in your air-conditioned ride, sip on some bottled water waiting for you, and relax for the 2-hour drive south. Once you reach San Diego, your order of sightseeing will vary. Top destinations are Old Town, Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter and the Embarcadero. While lunch isn’t included, Little Italy is a great neighborhood to grab a flavorful meal.

If you book a private tour, you can customize your itinerary. Animal lovers may want to spend a few hours at the San Diego Zoo or at the marine reserve in La Jolla Cove. History buffs can easily fill an afternoon with the attractions in Old Town San Diego or at Embarcadero museums.

What tours are available to go to San Diego?

Self-guided driving tours to San Diego from Los Angeles

Budget-minded and independent travelers, a self-guided driving tour might be the perfect thing for you. In your own vehicle, follow one of two possible driving routes with a guide that you’ll download on your smartphone. Stop wherever piques your interest for however long you’d like.

Guided tours to San Diego from Los Angeles

There’s no need to organize your own excursion to San Diego when you can have a professional do it for you. Affordable guided tours combine transportation and guided visits to the best of San Diego at one price. Small groups help make the trip hassle-free and more personalized.

Private tour to San Diego from Los Angeles

Ideal for families or groups of friends, a private tour from L.A. to San Diego is designed with only your part in mind. Depending on your wants, let the guide lead you to the top spots in San Diego. If you want to do your own thing, tell the guide your specific interests to create your own schedule.

How much does a day tour to San Diego from Los Angeles cost?

Self-guided driving tours cost US$8 per car. Small-group guided tours with live guides cost around US$100 per person. With that price you will have commentary during your drive, guided tours of San Diego landmarks and snacks and water in the vehicle.

Private tours cost US$850 per group of four people, or as little as about US$215 per person. Not included in tour prices is the cost of lunch or admission to paid attractions. However, many sites like Old Town San Diego and the Embarcadero do not charge entrance fees.

What will you see and do in San Diego?

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

Many of the city’s firsts are clustered together in Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Established by the Spanish 1769, this spot is where “America’s Finest City” established roots. Now it’s a space filled with living history, layers of culture and an assortment of activities that will appeal to anyone.

Within the park boundaries, you will find museums, parks and a bevy of historic buildings including San Diego’s first city hall, bank and market. Take a free themed walking tour, picnic in Presidio Park or catch a show at the Cygnet Theater. Plan your visit for a weekend day to experience the eclectic Harney Street Market.

Gaslamp Quarter

Best known for its exciting nightlife, the Gaslamp Quarter will entertain you any time of day. Plenty of indie and chain shops will catch your eye. Coffee shops, bars and restaurants abound for a nice snack, meal or pick-me-up.  And kids won’t drag their feet to the New Children’s Museum or locally-owned sweets shops.

Embarcadero

San Diego’s cruise port is much more than just a place to hop on and off ships. Within this seaside district, you’ll find museums, parks, shopping and dining. Step aboard a former aircraft carrier at the USS Midway Museum. Cool off at the splash pads in Waterfront Park, and even cast off from the harbor on a boat tour.

Coronado Island

Cross the Coronado Bridge to enjoy the luxury of Coronado Island. Shop, catch some rays or try out water sports like kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding. Pause for some photos of landmark Hotel del Coronado, the grandiose hotel that’s been welcoming guests since 1890.

Balboa Park

Sprawling and immaculately manicured, San Diego's Balboa Park has the look of an oasis in a European city. The park boasts more than 16 museums, lush gardens, dining and inviting corners to pause for a rest. The park is also home to the celebrated San Diego Zoo, an easy addition to your private tour itinerary.

Are tours wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, most San Diego day trips from Los Angeles are not wheelchair friendly. However, if you have a wheelchair-equipped private vehicle, a self-guided driving tour can be a fun and accessible option.

When is the best time to visit San Diego?

Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the best times of the year for a day trip from Los Angeles to San Diego, due to the mild and comfortable weather.

Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in San Diego and the weather is still nice but the city is more likely to be crowded.

Top tips

• To maximize your day, leave early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic on the highways.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes, suitable for exploring the city on foot.
• Bring essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and a reusable water bottle.
• Carry some cash as well as cards for admission fees, meals, and souvenirs.
• If you plan to visit the beach, bring towels, swimsuits, and other beach gear if desired.
• San Diego is known for its excellent Mexican food and seafood. Try some local specialties like fish tacos or California burritos for a delicious culinary experience.
• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.
• San Diego has beautiful natural landscapes and parks. Help preserve them by disposing of trash properly and respecting any posted rules.

What other day trips are available from Los Angeles?

• Day trips from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
• Day tours from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park
• Day trips from Los Angeles to Catalina Island