San Diego is a must-see on the classic California tour. The city is full of attractions and things to do and is suitable for any traveler.
However, it is important to choose the right area to stay in San Diego based on your interests and what you want to do.
Basically you will have to decide whether to stay in the city, within walking distance of the main attractions, or whether to stay close to the wonderful Californian beaches.
You'll also need to weigh the costs, as San Diego isn't exactly cheap. Therefore, also based on the budget, it is advisable to choose the most suitable district.
So let's see all the opportunities that the Californian city offers.
The San Diego Areas
Downtown
For the first time in San Diego and to see the best attractions in the city the center is a great base.
In particular, among the most popular options for a stay in San Diego is the Gaslamp Quarter (See Hotel), the heart of the city, a very characteristic area full of restaurants, bars, pubs and clubs with live music. From here you can walk around downtown San Diego and drive to other more distant destinations. Spending the night in Gaslamp Quarter is ideal if you have little time available.
However, keep in mind that the neighborhood is a bit noisy and the accommodations are not too cheap.
If you are on a budget you can consider the Hotel Circle area (See Hotels), just outside the center but still convenient for exploring the city, not far from the main attractions. Here you will find various solutions at affordable prices.
A short distance from Hotel Circle is the Old Town, a reconstruction of the old city, with souvenir shops and restaurants where you can enjoy Mexican food.
Next to the beach
If your main interest is the long beaches in full Californian style, you will have to choose one of the seaside resorts of San Diego, such as Pacific Beach, Mission Beach o Ocean Beach.
Pacific Beach is among the best areas to sleep in San Diego. The typical California beach, ideal for a stay with a sea view and located in a great location between Downtown and La Jolla.
A long beach where you can stroll through small shops and restaurants, unforgettable sunsets and a lively nightlife with many clubs and pubs, in one word Pacific Beach.
Adjacent to Pacific Beach in the southern part it rises Mission Beach, another classic Californian beach, with surfers, clubs and shops, perfect for those who want a holiday full of sun, sea and relaxation. The two areas are practically attached and can be reached with a walk on foot or by bicycle.
Going down a few km south of Mission Beach we arrive at Ocean Beach a quaint and quiet neighborhood with a Hippy atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing stay. There is also a beach with facilities for your four-legged friend.
Of the three areas my favorite remains Pacific beach, more animated and with a wide choice of clubs, bars and restaurants, recommended for those who want to go out in the evening without having to take the car. The location as we have said is perfect for reaching the best beaches and main attractions.
Another nice area to stay in San Diego is near by Point Loma, on the sea but not too far from the center. The costs are not high and you can enjoy breathtaking views, ideal for a romantic and low budget holiday. The location is good but it is preferable to have a car.
Keep in mind, however, that in Point Loma there are no bathing beaches, only cliffs overlooking the ocean.
For a Family Stay
One neighborhood recommended for a family stay in San Diego is Mission bay. An excellent choice also for beach and sports lovers, here you can practice any activity: surfing, running or cycling.
The area is full of greenery and is also perfect for a walk in the open air or for a family picnic.
La jolla
La Jolla is one of the best areas for a beach vacation, an elegant neighborhood among the most beautiful in San Diego, ideal for a relaxing vacation and for shopaholics. Not surprisingly, it is one of the most popular beach destinations in California.
Don't miss La Jolla Cove a beautiful beach frequented by seals and sea lions, a real spectacle.
However, consider that LA Jolla is quite expensive and is not very close to Downtown. Not recommended for a short stay.
Coronado
Coronado is a beautiful residential area, a peninsula connected to Downtown by the Coronado Bridge. The best choice if you want to be close to the beach and the city.
Here, as in La Jolla, the costs are higher than average, but if the budget allows it, it is an excellent choice for a romantic holiday; beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and great skyline views.
Conclusions
As we have seen, San Diego offers several possibilities for your stay, you just have to choose the one that is closest to your needs.
The costs of the hotel facilities are quite high, so I advise you to do a search also based on the value for money, then if you have a rental car you can move to any area.
Tips and practical information to better plan a trip to California
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