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Curator’s statement
San Diego is a city with a thriving beach, fitness and happy hour scene! While people tend to visit for the main sites — such as the zoo, Balboa Park and downtown — there are so many hidden gems that should not be missed.
The Fora Difference
Book with Kelsey to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
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Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
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Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Escape to timeless elegance and relaxation at Rancho Bernardo Inn, where every stay is a journey into the heart of Southern California's luxury and charm.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
L'Auberge Del Mar
A newly-renovated family- and pet-friendly estate in downtown Del Mar with a coastal-chic restaurant, poolside bar and ample amenities.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
- ★
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
Discover a luxurious retreat nestled in the coastal charm of La Jolla, where elegant accommodations, lush gardens, and a serene spa offer a tranquil escape and a truly memorable stay in Southern California.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 hotel / resort credit.
- ★
Breakfast daily.
The La Jolla Shores Hotel
A beachfront refuge in SoCal steps away from the Pacific Ocean, local sites and scrumptious eateries.
Unlock perks by contacting Kelsey to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive and Explore Little Italy
Arrive at San Diego Airport, which is conveniently located in the middle of the city. You'll want a rental car here, because public transportation isn't as developed as other major cities. Take a shuttle to pick up your rental car, then drive to your hotel.
Head to Little Italy for happy hour and dinner. This walkable neighborhood of downtown San Diego is packed with trendy restaurants and bars over the course of several blocks, so it is easy to hop from one place to another.
First, grab happy hour at Isola Pizza Bar.
After a pre-dinner drink, find a table at one of the local favorites: Barbusa, Born and Raised and Kettner Exchange.
Insider Tip: reservations are always encouraged for these Little Italy restaurants!
After you've eaten, grab an ice cream at Salt and Straw and take it down to the marina, which is just a few blocks away. Watch the sunset while walking along the water.
If you prefer a nightcap over ice cream, walk over to False Idol, a popular tiki bar.
Day 2: Walk Around Bird Rock and Ocean Beach
After having breakfast at your hotel, try out one of San Diego's fitness studios! The city has become a mecca for fitness, so whether you like HIIT workouts, Pilates or yoga, there will be a studio for you.
Top fitness studios in San Diego include Revel Fit Club in Pacific Beach or Del Mar, Renegade Fit and Body Rok Pilates.
If you would rather get your steps in outside, walk along the boardwalk in Mission Beach or Pacific Beach before the crowds get up.
Spend the rest of your day exploring the oceanfront neighborhood of Bird Rock. Bird Rock is just north of Pacific Beach and is filled with surf shops, beautiful homes with gardens and cute neighborhoods.
In the late afternoon and evening, drive to Ocean Beach for dinner. Ocean Beach is filled with character and great people watching! After you've walked along the beach and main street, head to OB Noodle House for dinner. This is a local favorite that is a San Diego staple.
Once you've eaten your fill of noodles, walk over to Sunset Cliffs with a blanket to watch the sunset.
Day 3: La Jolla Farmer's Market Before Departing
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, head to downtown La Jolla to walk around the farmer's market before driving back to the airport.
Travel Advisor
Kelsey Hollander
Get in touch with Kelsey
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Kelsey within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to San Diego. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Kelsie Holt's guide, A Day in North County, San Diego: Encinitas.