San Diego Day Trip from LA
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San Diego Day Trip from LA

Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Are you ready to embark on the most epic, unforgettable, and downright fun journey from Los Angeles to San Diego? Well, buckle up and get ready to experience the best of both cities in one mind-blowing day trip!

First things first, let's talk about the first star of the show: the Pacific Surfliner Train. This isn't just any old train ride – it's a ticket to stunning coastal views, comfortable seats, and crashing waves that'll make you feel like you're in a movie montage. And the best part? You'll be skipping all the traffic and parking hassles of driving, so you can sit back, relax, and soak up the scenery.

But that's just the beginning – once you arrive in San Diego, the real adventure begins. Our expert guide will be waiting for you at the Santa Fe Train Station, ready to whisk you away in a luxurious Mercedes van for a tour of the city's most iconic sights. And trust us, they know their stuff, so we've got the inside scoop on all the best spots.

Available options

San Diego Day Trip from LA

What's included

Small snacks. For example, chips or a granola bar
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

San Diego, California, is a city renowned for its mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and diverse attractions. It's located on the Pacific coast, adjacent to the U.S.-Mexico border. The city boasts a large population (over 1.3 million) and a long history as the seat of San Diego County.

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Stop 2

Coronado Island is a charming coastal town in San Diego, California, known for its beautiful beaches, the iconic Hotel del Coronado, and a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. It's easily accessible from downtown San Diego by bridge or ferry, making it a popular day trip destination.

3

Waterfront marketplace offering spectacular views of the San Diego skyline across the bay. Visitors can enjoy boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and watch boats sail by in the harbor.

4

Historic beachfront luxury hotel renowned for its distinctive red-roofed Victorian architecture since 1888. This iconic landmark has hosted presidents, royalty, and celebrities while appearing in numerous films including "Some Like It Hot."

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Stop 5

Vibrant downtown district featuring Victorian-era buildings housing restaurants, shops, and nightlife venues. This 16-block historical neighborhood represents the heart of San Diego's dining and entertainment scene.

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Stop 6

Magnificent 1,200-acre cultural park home to museums, gardens, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture dates back to the 1915-1916 Panama-California Exposition.

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Scenic waterfront promenade offering sweeping views of San Diego Bay with numerous maritime attractions. Visitors can stroll past navy ships, historic vessels, and watch cruise liners dock at the busy port.

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Stop 8

Legendary aircraft carrier transformed into an interactive naval museum featuring over 60 exhibits and 29 restored aircraft. The massive 1,001-foot ship served from 1945 to 1992, making it the longest-serving American aircraft carrier of the 20th century.

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Stop 9

Charming urban neighborhood filled with Italian restaurants, cafes, and boutiques reflecting its immigrant heritage. This vibrant district hosts numerous festivals and a popular farmers market highlighting its cultural legacy.

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Stop 10

Small picturesque cove with crystal-clear blue waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and watching marine life. This protected ecological reserve offers close encounters with sea lions, seals, and colorful garibaldi fish.

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Upscale coastal community featuring luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining establishments. The village's Mediterranean atmosphere and cliff-top location offer breathtaking ocean views.

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Stop 12

Small protected beach area originally built as a safe swimming spot for children that has become a popular harbor seal sanctuary. Visitors can observe dozens of seals sunbathing and caring for their pups from a safe distance on the seawall.

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Stop 13

Prominent hill featuring a veterans memorial and offering spectacular 360-degree views of San Diego County and the Pacific Ocean. The landmark cross and memorial walls honor U.S. military service members while providing one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Southern California.

What's not included

Tour Guide Gratuity is not included.
Tickets to attractions & museums (we do not go inside where paid admission is required)
We include a 1 hour lunch break, however lunch cost is on your own.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN ES

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will pick you up from Santa Fe station when your train arrives to start your tour.

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a vibrant, multicultural city known for its Hollywood glamour, sunny beaches, and diverse cultural attractions. From iconic landmarks to world-class dining and entertainment, LA offers a unique blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Hollywood Walk of Fame

A must-visit for film and entertainment enthusiasts, the Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities in the entertainment industry.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Santa Monica Pier

An iconic beachfront amusement park with a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and numerous rides, the Santa Monica Pier offers fun for all ages.

Entertainment Half day Free entry, rides cost extra

Griffith Observatory

A public observatory offering stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign, as well as educational exhibits about space and astronomy.

Nature 2-3 hours Free (some exhibits and shows have fees)

The Getty Center

A world-renowned art museum featuring European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photographs.

Museum Half day Free (parking fee applies)

Venice Beach

A vibrant beach community known for its boardwalk, street performers, and eclectic shops, as well as its beautiful sandy beaches.

Beach Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

A popular street food item featuring grilled or fried fish in a tortilla, topped with salsa and crema.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with various types of fish, vegetarian options available.

Korean BBQ

A staple of LA's Korean food scene, featuring marinated meats grilled at the table and served with side dishes.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.

Avocado Toast

A trendy dish featuring toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often garnished with eggs, tomatoes, or other toppings.

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian, vegan options available.

Tacos al Pastor

A traditional Mexican taco featuring marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served on corn tortillas with pineapple.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork, vegetarian options available at some restaurants.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Griffith Park Rock climbing in Joshua Tree National Park Surfing in Malibu Beach day in Santa Monica Spa day in Beverly Hills Yoga in Venice Beach Visiting museums in Downtown LA Exploring historic sites in Olvera Street

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

The peak seasons offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is the best time to visit for comfortable sightseeing and exploring the city's attractions.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Pacific Time Zone (PT), GMT-8 (Standard Time), GMT-7 (Daylight Saving Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

LA is generally safe for tourists, but some areas can be risky, especially at night. Stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure
  • • Be cautious at night and in less touristy areas
  • • Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air
  • Los Angeles International Airport • 20 km from city center
  • Bob Hope Airport • 30 km from city center
By train

Union Station

By bus

Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Metro Rail system includes several subway and light rail lines that cover most of the city. It's a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Hollywood Santa Monica Downtown LA Venice Beverly Hills

Day trips

Santa Barbara
150 km from LA • Full day

A charming coastal city known for its Spanish architecture, wineries, and beautiful beaches.

Disneyland Resort
50 km from LA • Full day

A world-famous theme park featuring Disney characters, rides, and attractions for all ages.

Joshua Tree National Park
200 km from LA • Full day or overnight

A unique desert landscape featuring iconic Joshua trees, rock formations, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Hollywood Bowl Summer Concert Series • June to September LA Pride • June LA County Fair • September to October

Pro tips

  • Use public transportation or walk whenever possible to avoid traffic and parking issues
  • Book tickets in advance for popular attractions and events
  • Explore beyond the tourist hotspots for a more local experience
  • Be prepared for traffic and congestion, especially during peak hours
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as LA can be hot and sunny year-round
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 0-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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