The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Coronado Island
Tiered pricing available for private groups — the more in your group, the lower the per-person cost.
Start your day with sweeping views from Mount Soledad, then explore sea cliffs and sea lions at La Jolla Cove. Step back in time in Old Town San Diego, where adobe buildings and plazas bring California’s past to life. Stop for lunch at Seaport Village (meals not included), then cruise through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares stories of its Wild West past. Cross the Coronado Bridge for sky-high views, stop at the historic Hotel del Coronado, and continue down scenic Orange Avenue. Pass through Balboa Park’s gardens and Spanish Revival buildings before a final drive through Little Italy—known for bayfront views and old-world charm.
Includes hotel pickup, narration, and a full day of San Diego’s best sights and stories.
Take in the Views from Mount Soledad
Kick off your San Diego adventure with a stop at Mount Soledad—home to sweeping coastal views and one of the city’s most meaningful landmarks. Soak in panoramic sights stretching from La Jolla to Mexico, and take a moment at the Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial, a peaceful tribute to American service members. It’s a stunning and reflective start to your day.
Stroll the Shores of La Jolla Cove
Get up close to San Diego’s wild side at La Jolla Cove, where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. Watch sea lions lounge on the rocks, wander through tide pools, or relax in the grassy expanse of Ellen Browning Scripps Park. With its postcard-perfect views and lively coastal charm, this stop is a favorite for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Step Back in Time in Old Town San Diego
Known as the birthplace of California, Old Town brings the past to life with adobe buildings, colorful shops, and lively plazas. Stroll through Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, explore the Whaley House Museum, or relax in the gardens of Heritage and Presidio Parks. It’s a charming blend of history, culture, and fun—perfect for soaking up San Diego’s roots.
Lunch Stop (meals not included): Dine and Unwind at the Embarcadero
Take a midday break along San Diego’s picturesque Embarcadero waterfront. With plenty of casual and sit-down dining options at Seaport Village—ranging from seafood spots to taco stands and cafes—it’s the perfect place to grab lunch with a view. Soak in harbor breezes, explore boutique shops, or relax by the bay before continuing your San Diego adventure.
Drive-Through: Gaslamp Quarter – San Diego’s Wild West Past
As we pass through the Gaslamp Quarter, your guide will dive into its gritty Wild West history—once a haven for saloons, brothels, and shootouts. Legendary lawmen like Wyatt Earp even ran gambling halls here in the late 1800s. Today, the area mixes historic charm with buzzing nightlife, Victorian architecture, and the iconic Gaslamp Archway—offering a vivid glimpse into San Diego’s colorful evolution.
Scenic Drive: Coronado Bridge – A Sky-High View of San Diego
As we cross the sweeping Coronado Bridge, enjoy panoramic views of the San Diego Bay, downtown skyline, and even Mexico on a clear day. Your guide will share stories about the bridge’s engineering marvel and its role in connecting the historic island community of Coronado to the mainland. Keep your camera ready—this is one of the most iconic drives in Southern California.
Coronado Island: Naval History, Iconic Views, and a Stop at Hotel del Coronado
As we cross onto Coronado Island, we’ll first pass by the historic North Island Naval Air Station—home to the U.S. Navy’s oldest airfield. Then, we’ll stop at the legendary Hotel del Coronado, a grand Victorian-era resort that has welcomed presidents, royalty, and movie stars since 1888. You'll have time to explore the grounds, stroll along the beach, or grab a coffee. Afterward, we’ll cruise down scenic Orange Avenue, lined with shops and charming neighborhoods, before making your way back over the Coronado Bridge with stunning views of the bay.
Balboa Park: San Diego’s Cultural Heartbeat
As we pass through Balboa Park, you’ll glimpse one of the largest urban parks in the country—home to over a dozen museums, lush gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo. This 1,200-acre gem blends nature, architecture, and culture. Look out for the ornate Spanish Colonial Revival buildings lining El Prado, the domed Botanical Building, and outdoor venues like the Starlight Bowl and Old Globe Theatre. It’s the soul of San Diego’s art, history, and science—all in one beautifully walkable space.
Explore Little Italy
Drive through San Diego’s stylish Little Italy, a lively neighborhood known for its rich Italian heritage, trendy restaurants, and boutique shops. From the bustling Mercato farmers market to bay views at Waterfront Park and the charm of Piazza Basilone, this stop blends history, culture, and culinary flair into one unforgettable district.
Prefer to meet us instead? Join us at 1201 1st Street, Coronado, CA 92118, near the Coronado Ferry Landing. This public area isn’t affiliated with our company. Parking may be limited—consider a rideshare for a smooth, stress-free start to your tour.
San Diego is known for its mild year-round climate, extensive beaches, and beautiful parks. It's a vibrant city that offers a mix of urban attractions, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for travelers of all kinds.
The San Diego Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the world, known for its extensive collection of animals and beautiful landscaping. It's a must-visit for animal lovers and families.
Balboa Park is a 1,200-acre urban cultural park that houses museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. It's a great place to spend a day exploring art, history, and nature.
La Jolla Cove is a beautiful coastal area known for its sea caves, tide pools, and marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and whale watching.
The USS Midway Museum is a historic aircraft carrier that has been converted into a museum. Visitors can explore the ship's decks, hangars, and exhibits, and even take a simulated flight in a fighter jet.
The Gaslamp Quarter is a historic neighborhood known for its Victorian-era buildings, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It's a great place to explore the city's history and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
A San Diego specialty, fish tacos are made with fresh, locally caught fish, usually served with cabbage slaw and a creamy sauce.
A creamy, rich Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, often served with bread and olive oil.
A Mexican dish made with slow-cooked, spiced meat, usually served with corn tortillas and consommé for dipping.
A popular breakfast and brunch dish made with toasted bread, mashed avocado, and various toppings.
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
US Dollar (USD)
GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time, PST) or GMT-7 (Pacific Daylight Time, PDT) during daylight saving time
120VV, 60HzHz
San Diego is generally a safe city, with low crime rates compared to other major cities in the United States. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
San Diego Santa Fe Depot
Greyhound Station, San Diego Metro Transit Center
The MTS bus system covers the entire city and is affordable and reliable. Buses are a good option for getting around, especially during off-peak hours.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
Coronado Island is a beautiful beach town known for its historic Hotel del Coronado, sandy beaches, and scenic views. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the sun, and explore the island's history.
Tijuana is a vibrant border city known for its Mexican cuisine, nightlife, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to experience authentic Mexican culture and enjoy its culinary scene.
Temecula Valley Wine Country is a picturesque region known for its wineries, vineyards, and scenic views. It's a great place to spend a day tasting wine, enjoying the countryside, and relaxing.
Price varies by option