Private Full Day San Diego Tour from Dana Point
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Private Full Day San Diego Tour from Dana Point

Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Private San Diego Tour: The Full Experience from Dana Point

This full-day private tour features tiered pricing for up to 14 guests—the larger the group, the lower the per-person rate. Ideal for families, friends, or corporate outings.

Start with sweeping coastal views from Mount Soledad, then explore La Jolla Cove’s cliffs, sea lions, and scenic parklands. Step back in time in Old Town San Diego with its adobe buildings and lively plazas. Break for lunch (meals not included) at Seaport Village, with bay views and plenty of dining options.

Cruise through the Gaslamp Quarter as your guide shares tales of its gritty Wild West past. Cross the iconic Coronado Bridge, stop at the historic Hotel del Coronado, and roll down charming Orange Avenue. Pass through Balboa Park’s gardens and Spanish Revival architecture, then finish with a scenic drive through Little Italy.

Includes hotel pickup, narration, and a curated blend of San Diego’s top sights.

Available options

Private Full Day San Diego Tour from Dana Point

What's included

Perfect picture spots!
Bottled water
Fully narrated tour by your local knowledgeable and fun tour guide/driver
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

What's not included

Lunch
Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

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

Meeting point

Dana Point Pickup – Salt Creek Beach
Meeting us instead? Join at Salt Creek Beach Parking (33333 Pacific Coast Hwy, Dana Point, CA 92629). This public lot isn’t managed by us, and parking may be limited—rideshare is recommended for a smooth start to your tour.

About Dana Point

Dana Point is a charming coastal city in Southern California known for its picturesque harbor, beautiful beaches, and abundant marine life. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Top Attractions

Dana Point Harbor

A bustling harbor with shops, restaurants, and boat tours. It's a great place to enjoy the coastal views and marine activities.

Marina/Entertainment 2-4 hours Free to explore, activities vary in cost

Doheny State Beach

A beautiful state beach with clean sand, clear water, and great facilities. It's perfect for swimming, surfing, and picnicking.

Beach Half day Parking fee of $10-$15

Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area

A scenic coastal area with hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and historic sites. It offers stunning views of the ocean and marine life.

Nature 2-4 hours Free

Mariners' Museum

A museum dedicated to the history of the maritime industry and the local area. It features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate ($10-$15)

Whale Watching Tours

Dana Point is known for its whale watching opportunities. Join a guided tour to see gray whales, blue whales, and other marine life.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive ($50-$100)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fish Tacos

Grilled or fried fish served in a tortilla with fresh toppings like salsa, guacamole, and sour cream

Lunch/Dinner Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian

Cioppino

A seafood stew made with a variety of fresh seafood, tomatoes, and white wine

Dinner Contains shellfish

Avocado Toast

Toasted bread topped with mashed avocado, often served with a poached or fried egg

Breakfast/Brunch Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Popular Activities

Whale watching Surfing Hiking Beach activities Spa and wellness Picnicking Art gallery hopping Historical site visits

Best Time to Visit

April to October

The peak season offers warm weather, clear skies, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. This is the best time for whale watching, beach activities, and water sports.

18-26°C 64-79°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: English
  • Widely spoken: Spanish
  • English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Dana Point is a generally safe destination, with low crime rates and a relaxed atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
  • • Avoid walking alone on the beach at night
  • • Use common sense and trust your instincts

Getting there

By air
  • John Wayne Airport • 20 miles (32 km)
  • Long Beach Airport • 35 miles (56 km)
By train

Dana Point Station

By bus

Dana Point Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) provides bus services that are convenient and affordable. Buses are equipped with bike racks.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dana Point Harbor Downtown Dana Point Capistrano Beach

Day trips

Laguna Beach
15 miles (24 km) • Half day to full day

A charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, art galleries, and cultural attractions. It's a great place to explore the local art scene and enjoy the ocean.

San Juan Capistrano
10 miles (16 km) • Half day

A historic city known for its Spanish colonial architecture, mission, and wine country. It's a great place to explore the local history and culture.

Newport Beach
20 miles (32 km) • Full day

A vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, shopping, and entertainment. It's a great place to enjoy the ocean and explore the local scene.

Festivals

Dana Point Festival of Whales • March Dana Point Tall Ships Festival • September

Pro tips

  • Visit the Dana Point Harbor early in the morning for a peaceful experience and the best views.
  • Try the fresh seafood at the waterfront restaurants in the harbor.
  • Explore the local art scene by visiting the Dana Point Art Gallery and local art festivals.
  • Take a whale watching tour to see gray whales, blue whales, and other marine life.
  • Hike the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area for stunning views of the ocean and marine life.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 13-90
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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