Nothing beats summer in San Diego. With year-round sunny skies and more than 70 miles of beautiful coastline, there’s plenty of adventure waiting. Next time you head there on a weekend jaunt, try this fun-filled itinerary so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.

Day 1: Beaches & La Jolla

Morning
Start your vacation off right with a trip to the beach. Stop in Harry’s Coffee Shop for classic breakfast food. As the oldest family-owned diner in the area, this beloved local icon is a must-do for your first time to La Jolla.

Afternoon
Have an adventure of a lifetime out on the water. Between paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and surfing, the ocean awaits. Try La Jolla Cove for views or La Jolla Shores for families.

Evening
Wrap up your day with a sunset dinner at Duke’s La Jolla. End your meal right by ordering their famous Hula Pie. (Think a delightful concoction of chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream, hot fudge, toasted macadamia nuts, and whipped cream.)

Day 2: Gaslamp Quarter & Balboa Park

Morning
Enjoy creative twists on breakfast staples at Snooze Eatery.

Afternoon
You can easily spend a full day at the 1,200-acre Balboa Park. Museum hop, get up close to animals at the San Diego Zoo, or find your Zen at the Japanese Friendship Garden.

Evening
Explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter on an evening stroll. Window shop along the many boutiques, then try one of many delicious restaurants. Enjoy a delicious steak at The Butcher’s Cut, savor progressive bar fare at Barleymash, sample fresh-catch cuisine at Lionfish, or sip margaritas at Rockin’ Baja Lobster.

Day 3: Old Town & Coronado Island

Morning
San Diego is a foodie’s city, and while there are plenty of choices for breakfast, Great Maple truly stands out. This morning spot is known for unique offerings including “Lolliwaffles” (or waffles on sticks) and fresh-baked maple donuts.

Afternoon
Take the ferry over to Coronado Island for great shops, restaurants, and galleries. No trip to the island is complete without a visit to famed Hotel del Coronado. Plus, if you can’t get enough beach time, Coronado Island has five beautiful options.

Evening
Transport yourself back in time at the oldest settlement in California, Old Town San Diego. Explore the historic sites at Old Town State Historical Park, then savor traditional Mexican food and delicious margaritas at Cafe Coyote.