San diego in June last week with toddler- help planning

Question

We only have 3 days for our vacation first time in San diego with our 17month old toddler.

How is the weather?

What all can be done in 3 days with the toddler?

He loved to walk and run but would be need a stroller for any activities!

Lastly, love to hear suggestions on where/which location to stay? Thanks

Answer

Visiting San Diego in the last week of June is generally very pleasant. You can expect mild to warm temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–24°C) during the day, and cooler evenings in the 55–60°F (13–16°C) range. It’s usually dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities with a toddler, though mornings can sometimes have coastal fog that burns off by late morning.

With a 17-month-old who loves to walk and run but still needs a stroller for longer outings, you can focus on kid-friendly, open spaces and attractions. Here are some top recommendations for a 3-day itinerary:

San Diego Zoo (Balboa Park) – One of the world’s best zoos with shaded paths, stroller-friendly walkways, and toddler-friendly exhibits. Plan a few hours to see pandas, elephants, and the petting areas.
Balboa Park Gardens & Play Areas – Outside of the zoo, there are several gardens and grassy areas where toddlers can run freely. The Fleet Science Center courtyard and the playground at Pepper Grove are also fun for little ones.
La Jolla Cove & La Jolla Shores – Beaches with calm water are great for toddlers. La Jolla Shores has sand and tide pools, perfect for early beach exploration. A picnic here works well too.
Seaport Village – Stroller-friendly boardwalk with shops and views of the harbor. Good for a short stroll and snack break.
New Children’s Museum – If you want an indoor activity, this museum is very toddler-friendly with interactive exhibits and soft play areas.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park – Open-air historical park with walkable streets and spaces for toddlers to explore safely, plus some casual dining options.

For accommodations, staying near central areas like Downtown, Mission Bay, or La Jolla is ideal. This allows easy access to a variety of attractions without long drives. Mission Bay is especially toddler-friendly, with calm beaches and parks nearby, while Downtown or Gaslamp Quarter offers easy access to Seaport Village, the USS Midway Museum (good for a short outdoor look), and harbor walks.

Mission Bay / Pacific Beach – family-friendly, near water and parks, good for stroller walks.
Downtown / Gaslamp – central, close to harbor and Balboa Park, convenient for short drives to multiple attractions.
La Jolla – more upscale, beach access, quieter and scenic, ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace with your toddler.

Tips for visiting with a toddler:

Bring a lightweight stroller for longer walks and sun protection with a hat and sunscreen.
Plan for breaks and naps; most attractions have shaded areas or indoor spaces.
Pack snacks and water; San Diego’s outdoor attractions can involve lots of walking.
Start mornings early to avoid crowds at popular spots like the zoo or beaches.

Overall, three days allows for a mix of outdoor exploration, light sightseeing, and some relaxed beach or park time that your toddler can enjoy without being overwhelmed.