Planning Your Time

Compared to other parts of California, San Diego [1]’s major attractions sit relatively close together, and it’s easy to get from one place to another in a reasonable amount of time.

San Diego County has arguably the best beaches [2] in the state. If your travel goals are focused on sand and surf, consider staying in Mission Bay [3] or Point Loma [4], or farther afield in the North County [5] coastal area.

On the other hand, if you’re in town to see the zoo [6] or take in some museums, you’ll be spending time in Balboa Park [7], which abuts the Old Town [8] and downtown areas.

If you’re starting a tour of California Missions, head for Old Town [8] first. Military history and Navy buffs will be content to spend their whole trip within the city limits of San Diego [1], dividing their time between the Harbor and Point Loma [9].

If you’ve got an extra couple of hours and you haven’t been out there yet, take the bridge over to Coronado to gawk at the ridiculous exuberance of the Hotel del Coronado [10].