Answer: It sounds like a wonderful anniversary trip! Since your primary goal is to celebrate your actual anniversary at Las Brisas in Laguna Beach on September 17th, it makes sense to structure your itinerary around that key date while keeping travel time minimal and allowing a relaxing pace for the rest of your Southern California visit.

Answer: Hi! It sounds like you have a wonderful first trip planned in San Diego, and staying in La Jolla is perfect for combining scenic beauty with food, drinks, and activities. Since Friday is covered with the scenic drive in your convertible, here’s a detailed plan for Saturday to make it memorable.

Answer: For a first-time visit to San Diego, choosing the right area to stay will make a big difference, especially since you want to be near a beach, have access to good restaurants and coffee, enjoy walking, and want a safe area.

Answer: Even though Party City stores are closed in San Diego, there are several alternative options to pick up birthday decor, balloons, and party supplies. You can find specialty stores, larger retail chains, and even local shops that carry festive items.

Answer: It sounds like you had a fantastic San Diego trip! Your review gives a great overview of accommodations, activities, and dining options that can really help future travelers decide what works best for them.

Answer: For a family group of 14 visiting San Diego in the summer, finding accommodations with ample outdoor space beyond just a pool is key for comfort and enjoyment, especially with 6 children in the group. While large vacation rentals can sometimes be limited, several hotels offer family-friendly amenities such as fire pits, playgrounds, and grassy areas where your group can gather.

Answer: For a day trip to Coronado from downtown San Diego, you have a couple of convenient options depending on your preference for driving versus enjoying a scenic ferry ride.

Answer: Both The Lodge at Torrey Pines and the Fairmont Grand Del Mar are exceptional luxury hotels in San Diego, each offering a distinct experience. For a special occasion in early December, either choice will provide a memorable stay, but there are some differences worth considering, especially regarding dining.

Answer: For an 8-10 day San Diego trip around mid-December, focusing on the main attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, and SeaWorld, it’s important to consider both cost savings and flexibility, especially since you’ve already spent significant time in the area this year.

Answer: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is one of San Diego’s most iconic coastal preserves, renowned for its dramatic cliffs, scenic ocean views, and unique flora. Many visitors consider it a highlight of a first-time trip to San Diego, particularly for hiking and photography enthusiasts.

Answer: Hi! Tripadvisor forums have specific guidelines designed to maintain a respectful, informative, and safe environment for all users. Posts may be removed by staff at the request of the original author or if they violate these guidelines.

Answer: San Diego is a great city for a mix of outdoor activities, and with three days, you can easily combine kayaking, e-biking, and hiking without feeling rushed. Here’s a detailed breakdown for each activity:

Answer: All three properties you are considering—L’Auberge Del Mar, Estancia La Jolla, and Inn at Rancho Santa Fe—are excellent luxury resorts, but they each have a slightly different vibe, location, and amenities. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide:

Answer: Attending a San Diego Padres game at Petco Park for the first time is exciting! For a 6:40 pm start, planning your arrival can make your experience much smoother, especially as a first-time visitor.

Answer: Hi! Regarding Road Scholar trips and cancellations, here’s a detailed breakdown based on their standard policies:

Answer: Both the Westin Gaslamp and the Coronado Marriott have advantages, so the choice depends on your priorities—whether you value location and convenience or space and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Answer: For a one-night stay in San Diego with plans to visit the Zoo, Coronado, and have dinner in Little Italy or the Embarcadero, both Best Western Yacht Harbor and Kings Inn are convenient options, but each has slightly different advantages depending on your priorities.

Answer: When renting a car in California, the question of whether to purchase a Hertz PlatePass (or similar electronic toll pass) depends largely on your route and how much driving on toll roads or express lanes you plan to do. California does have several toll roads, especially in Southern California around Orange County, parts of Los Angeles, and in San Diego. Additionally, some bridges or express lanes on highways are cashless and require an electronic pass to pay tolls.

Answer: Visiting the San Diego Zoo with a 2-year-old is a wonderful choice — the zoo is extremely family-friendly, stroller-friendly, and full of engaging exhibits for toddlers. Below is everything you need to know, including ticket guidance, what to book in advance, and the best animals and activities for young children.

Answer: Your first day in San Diego sounds fantastic and packed with iconic sights along the coast. Staying at El Cordova on Coronado is an excellent choice, especially with a one-bedroom suite — the extra space, kitchen, and living room make it comfortable for a longer stay or for families. Being adjacent to the Hotel Del and the beach adds to the luxury and convenience.

Answer: Gaslamp Quarter is absolutely the best area to stay in San Diego if your goal is a lively nightlife with bars, clubs, and music. It’s centrally located, walkable, and has a wide variety of options for groups in their 40s. Since you’ll have a car, you also have the flexibility to explore nearby neighborhoods like Little Italy or North Park, but Gaslamp is the heart of weekend nightlife.

Answer: The San Diego Zoo has recently updated its panda viewing procedures. As of your visit, weekday panda viewing no longer requires timed tickets and is now handled entirely via the standby line system. This means that visitors arriving on weekdays can join the queue without needing a prior reservation, although early arrival is recommended to minimize wait times, especially for popular exhibits like Panda Ridge.

Answer: The Seaport Village–Coronado Ferry is a fantastic way to enjoy San Diego’s waterfront and get great views of the skyline and bay. Since you’re planning for a Sunday, parking and timing are important to make the experience smooth.

Answer: Yes, Petco Park in downtown San Diego has a unique feature called the “Park at the Park,” which is a grassy area beyond the outfield fence. This area is visible from inside the stadium and also accessible from the outside along the Western Metal Supply Co. building and surrounding areas.

Answer: For a young family wanting to boogie board safely in San Diego in mid-August, both Mission Beach and Ocean Beach are popular alternatives to Coronado, but they each have distinct characteristics worth considering for families with young children.

Answer: For a family of four adults or two adults with older teens, finding a suite-style hotel in San Diego can provide more space and comfort than a standard room while staying within a reasonable budget. August is peak season, so booking early is recommended.

Answer: For a first-time family visit to San Diego with two boys aged 13 and 9, choosing the right accommodation and location can make a big difference in your overall experience. Since your priorities include an ocean or bay view and easy access to major attractions, it helps to weigh location convenience, amenities, and budget.

Answer: Great question! Staying near the San Diego Zoo with a 4-year-old can be very manageable, especially since you’ll have a car. The Zoo is in Balboa Park, and there are several family-friendly hotels a short drive away that balance convenience, safety, and value.

Answer: Congratulations on your 40th wedding anniversary! San Diego has an amazing food scene, and with your stay at the Catamaran Resort, you'll have great access to water views, casual spots, and fine dining. Here’s a detailed guide:

Answer: Spending New Year's Eve in San Diego with teens can be a lot of fun, especially if you balance a nice dinner, festive activities, and a safe way to enjoy the countdown. Since your teens are 15 and 17, you’ll want options that are family-friendly but still feel special for the holiday.

Answer: San Diego offers several waterfront hotels and resorts that have sandy beaches, making it ideal for a relaxing stay while also enjoying activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or just lounging by the water. Based on your criteria—beachfront access, balcony, and preferably under $500/night—there are several solid options to consider.

Answer: Planning a day trip to Tijuana from San Diego can be a fun experience, but crossing back into the U.S. is something to plan carefully, especially around a holiday weekend like July 4th. Historically, holiday weekends significantly increase pedestrian and vehicle traffic at the border, which can lead to longer wait times.

Answer: For a 5-day visit to San Diego, it’s generally best to visit Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo on a weekday rather than a weekend. Weekends tend to be much busier with locals and tourists, which can make parking, walking through exhibits, and enjoying the gardens more crowded.

Answer: If you are looking to stay near Navy Station San Diego and the Navy Lodge is unavailable for leisure travel, there are several nearby hotels that offer convenience, comfort, and good amenities. Most are within a short drive or shuttle distance from the base.

Answer: Great plan — La Jolla is such a lovely spot for a meal, especially with teens, and there are fun things to do after your kayak tour. Here are some recommendations for lunch/dinner plus ideas for how to spend the rest of your La Jolla time.

Answer: The Hotel Del Coronado is a classic San Diego beachfront resort with multiple lodging options, and choosing between the Cabanas and the Victorian section largely depends on your priorities for convenience, ambiance, and access to amenities.

Answer: Hotel Del Coronado is a historic and iconic resort in San Diego, located directly on Coronado Beach. Late August is a popular time for visitors, so it’s good to plan carefully regarding both the hotel and beach conditions.

Answer: San Diego is a fantastic choice for a 25th anniversary getaway, especially in July when the weather is reliably warm but not overly hot. Since you’re looking for an intimate, lovely setting with amenities like a restaurant, bar, spa access, and proximity to beach, shops, or hiking, here are some tailored suggestions based on your preferences.

Answer: Your plan for a baseball weekend with your grandson in San Diego sounds fantastic! With your interests—outdoors, light hiking, biking, shopping, and relaxing by the water—there’s plenty to fill a day without needing to drive yourself.

Answer: Great question — this is a tricky one, because there’s no confirmed, currently open Italian restaurant in the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego that *definitely* matches your description of serving cioppino and having a kayak hanging from the ceiling. However, there is a strong lead — and also some useful context:

Answer: For a short mother-daughter trip to San Diego with your daughter mostly attending the convention center, staying nearby is ideal for convenience, safety, and walkability. The Gaslamp Quarter and nearby waterfront areas are generally safe, lively, and well-serviced by hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Answer: Morning Glory in San Diego’s Little Italy is one of the most famous brunch spots in the city, largely because of its over-the-top décor, creative menu, and Instagram appeal. That said, it definitely gets mixed reviews, and whether it’s “worth it” depends on what kind of brunch experience you’re looking for.

Answer: Little Italy in San Diego is compact and very walkable, though given your mobility constraints, staying close to a hotel like the Westin Bayside or Manchester Grand Hyatt and using short Lyft/Uber rides is a smart approach. Here are some top Italian dining options that are well-regarded and convenient for your location.

Answer: Old Town San Diego is a hub for authentic Mexican cuisine and historic charm, with several standout restaurants. Choosing "the best" can depend on what kind of experience you want — whether it’s traditional Mexican dishes, margaritas, or a festive atmosphere.

Answer: Using the San Diego Trolley can be a fun and convenient way to explore the city without worrying about traffic or parking. While La Jolla itself isn’t directly on the trolley line, you can get to a nearby trolley station with a short drive, rideshare, or bus connection. The trolley system covers many popular areas like downtown, Old Town, Mission Valley, and the Mexican border region.

Answer: For a special trip celebrating your mother-in-law’s 86th birthday, all three hotels you’re considering in San Diego have their strengths, but they cater to slightly different experiences and priorities. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Answer: The Surfliner train from Los Angeles to San Diego is a popular and scenic route along the California coast. When you book a ticket that includes a bus connection in the middle, it usually means that a portion of the journey is being operated by a bus instead of the train due to track work, maintenance, or other operational reasons.

Answer: San Diego offers a variety of neighborhoods that are ideal for couples seeking a mix of beach access, dining, nightlife, and walkability. Choosing the right area depends on whether you want a more relaxed beach vibe or a lively urban setting.

Answer: San Diego in early April is a great time for a family trip, with mild temperatures averaging around 67°F. You’ll want a mix of outdoor activities, beach time, and kid-friendly dining options. Dressing in layers is ideal—shorts or light pants, with sweaters or jackets for cooler mornings and evenings.

Answer: For watching NFL games on a Sunday morning in San Diego, especially if you’re Giants & Jets fans, you’ll want a lively sports bar with multiple TVs and a good crowd. Both Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach have options, and being willing to drive opens up even more possibilities.

Answer: Staying at the Marriott Marquis in downtown San Diego gives you great walkable access to the Gaslamp Quarter, Seaport Village, and nearby neighborhoods with lots of casual dining options. For breakfast and dinner, you can enjoy a mix of local favorites without venturing far.

Answer: San Diego has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars offering live music. Since you’ll be visiting in February for 6 nights, you’ll have time to explore a mix of neighborhoods and music styles. Here’s a breakdown of popular areas and venues:

Answer: San Diego has several neighborhoods that share the quirky, local-vibe charm of South Park, with a mix of interesting bars, cafes, shops, and a more authentic feel compared to the tourist-heavy areas. Exploring these can give you a similar experience of strolling tree-lined streets, discovering independent boutiques, and enjoying creative eateries.

Answer: If your priority is to be car-free, close to public transportation, and within easy walking distance of restaurants and San Diego’s main waterfront attractions, then staying near the Embarcadero or Little Italy is a far better choice than Town and Country. Town and Country is a pleasant resort, but it sits in Mission Valley, which isn’t walkable and requires rideshares or long trolley trips for most activities.

Answer: Booking a SeaWorld vacation package can be a very good option, especially for families traveling internationally who want to simplify planning and get some savings on tickets. Since you are considering 3–5 nights in San Diego in December, and your budget for accommodation is around $400 USD per night, the vacation package can provide extra value because it bundles admission tickets with your hotel stay.

Answer: Great questions! Here’s a breakdown of considerations for your Memorial Weekend stay in San Diego, plus what the Padres schedule looks like and which hotel might suit you best.

Answer: SeaWorld San Diego offers a variety of animal shows including orca and dolphin presentations, but show times can vary by season, day of the week, and special events. The most reliable way to find the current show schedule is directly through SeaWorld’s official channels.

Answer: For a short 2-day visit to San Diego, especially considering limited walking due to orthopedic concerns, Coronado Island is a very suitable destination. The Hotel del Coronado is the main attraction, and it’s manageable to enjoy the area without extensive walking.

Answer: For a one-night stay in San Diego, your choice between Oceanside and downtown depends on what kind of experience you want. Both areas have their merits, so it’s a matter of priorities—beach vs city vibe, convenience, and attractions.

Answer: Staying near the Green Line in San Diego is a smart choice if you want to avoid renting a car and need easy access to SDSU for New Student Orientation. Both Mission Valley and Old Town offer convenient transit options, with Mission Valley generally being closer to shopping and dining, while Old Town offers a charming historic vibe and trolley access.

Answer: Your itinerary for San Diego looks well balanced for a family with young children, with a mix of high-energy and low-key days. Here are some detailed suggestions and tweaks you might consider to make the trip smoother and more enjoyable:

Answer: Your observations about San Diego reflect concerns many visitors and residents have noticed over the past several years. While San Diego is known for its beautiful weather, beaches, and architecture, the city has experienced a growing homelessness crisis, particularly in downtown areas.

Answer: Visiting the San Diego Zoo to see the giant pandas requires some planning, especially given how popular the exhibit has become. Your experience illustrates both the challenges and rewards of visiting Panda Ridge and the surrounding zoo attractions.

Answer: Your San Diego itinerary looks well thought out, and I can provide some detailed guidance on parking, timing, and how to structure each day to maximize your experience.

Answer: Staying at the Westgate Hotel in San Diego puts you right in the Gaslamp Quarter, which is perfect for an evening stroll with kids. Since you’ll be coming from the Zoo, you’ll likely want something close by, fun, and not too late.

Answer: Great question — finding a hotel walking-distance to Petco Park on a budget of around $300 US for 4 people is absolutely possible, especially if you’re willing to stay in downtown / Gaslamp Quarter hotels. Rates can fluctuate a lot based on game day, events, and how full the area is, so here are some smart options + tips based on current info.

Answer: For your one-night stay in San Diego, since your main activity the next day is Sea World, it makes sense to stay in a central area with easy access to the freeway for your departure to LA in the evening. Neighborhoods like Mission Valley, Hotel Circle, or even near Old Town are practical, affordable, and convenient for dining and access to Sea World. Mission Valley is especially good for budget options and quick freeway access.

Answer: San Diego’s downtown near the Marriott Marquis has a vibrant coffee scene, with several unique spots that go beyond your typical hotel coffee. Here are some top options for a fun morning mocha or specialty coffee experience:

Answer: San Diego is a fantastic city for biking, and La Jolla, in particular, offers scenic coastal routes perfect for e-bikes. There are a variety of options depending on whether you want a leisurely ride along the coast, a more challenging hill ride, or a combination of urban and seaside paths.

Answer: Your San Diego itinerary sounds fun and adventurous! Since you love being outdoors, walking, biking, and short adventures, here’s a detailed plan and advice on logistics, timing, and restaurant options to maximize your experience.

Answer: When planning a stay near Petco Park for a Padres game, both the Hard Rock Hotel and Hotel Indigo are excellent options due to their proximity and convenience. They are within easy walking distance to the ballpark, making it easy to enjoy the game without worrying about parking or traffic.

Answer: Your second day in Coronado sounds absolutely wonderful—relaxing, scenic, and filled with great food and classic San Diego experiences. Coronado is one of those places where even a simple stroll or sunset can feel special, and your day really captured the charm of the island.

Answer: Both the Marriott Marquis Marina and Springhill Suites offer great options for a stay in San Diego, but the right choice will depend on what kind of experience you're looking for during your vacation. Here’s a breakdown of each property to help you decide:

Answer: San Diego’s Coronado Island and La Jolla offer scenic coastal experiences that are ideal for sightseeing without needing to lounge on the beaches. Since you plan to have a rental car for the first two days, you’ll have flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Answer: For an oceanfront stay near San Diego with strong surf, scenic views, and convenient access to shops and restaurants, La Jolla and nearby coastal neighborhoods offer some of the best options. Early March is a great time for dramatic waves along the coast, especially if you are more interested in watching and listening rather than swimming.

Answer: Welcome to San Diego! Staying at the Catamaran is a fantastic choice—you’ll be right on Mission Bay with beautiful water views, palm trees, and a great spot for sunset drinks. Since you’re interested in Happy Hours, tacos, and margaritas, here are some excellent options near your area and throughout San Diego.

Answer: La Jolla has several bakeries that can provide a simple, classic white cake with buttercream icing perfect for a birthday celebration. Since you’re looking for something not fancy, local bakeries and grocery bakeries are great options for quick ordering and reliable quality.

Answer: Kasa Little Italy is a great option if you’re looking for an apartment-style stay in San Diego. Little Italy is one of the city’s most vibrant and walkable neighborhoods, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, gelaterias, and nightlife. The area is generally considered safe, and walking around at night is common, especially along the main streets like India Street and around the plazas.

Answer: Traveling from the cruise terminal in San Diego to the airport is generally straightforward, but there are several factors to consider when planning your timing and transportation.

Answer: Visiting Coronado in January is beautiful, but the Pacific Ocean is generally too cold for comfortable swimming without a wetsuit. Average water temperatures in San Diego in January are around 57–60°F (14–16°C), which most people find chilly. If swimming is a must, you might want to consider heated pools at hotels or resorts instead.

Answer: San Diego has a fantastic seafood scene with options ranging from casual fish shacks to upscale dining. Staying at the Marriott Marquis downtown gives you easy access to many great choices, either within walking distance or a short Uber ride away.

Answer: If this is your first time sailing on a historical tall ship in San Diego, both the San Salvador and the Californian offer unique experiences, but they are quite different in feel and sailing style.

Answer: Good question! Finding an Italian restaurant open on Christmas Day in the Gaslamp or nearby can be a bit tricky, but there are a couple of good options plus a solid nearby suggestion. Based on current dining-guide listings and holiday dining calendars, here are some Italian spots to consider for Christmas:

Answer: For a first-time visit to San Diego in March, choosing the right location really depends on your priorities—whether you want beach access, nightlife, or a quieter residential feel. Since you are considering renting a car, you’ll have more flexibility to stay a bit farther from the main tourist areas, which can help with budget and availability.

Answer: For a first-time visit to San Diego and wanting to stay along the boardwalk, both Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are great options, but they offer slightly different vibes:

Answer: Staying in Mission Valley is generally a convenient choice in San Diego because it’s centrally located between the airport, downtown, and coastal areas like La Jolla. However, transportation logistics will depend on whether you’re relying on ride-shares, taxis, or public transit, since, as you noted, many hotels in Mission Valley (including the Marriott) do not provide an airport shuttle.

Answer: San Diego is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown area and near Little Italy. Since you're used to walking and exploring, you’ll find that many attractions are within walking distance, and the city’s infrastructure supports pedestrians well. Here’s a breakdown of the areas you’re interested in, along with some advice for getting around on foot:

Answer: Great question. San Diego has several very good beach-oriented hotels that could fit your budget and give you that “on or near the water” feel — plus more options than just Mission Bay Resort. Here are some thoughtful options + pros/considerations based on what you said (view, balcony, pool, under ~$500/night if possible in early October). Then a few tips to help decide.

Answer: If you only have time for one, the decision between the San Diego Zoo and the San Diego Safari Park depends on what type of experience you want and how active your group wants to be. Both are excellent, but they offer very different experiences.

Answer: Catalina Island can definitely be done as a day trip from San Diego, but it requires a full day and a bit of planning. The most common route for day-trippers is indeed to drive from San Diego (Pacific Beach area) to Dana Point, which typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic. Dana Point Harbor is the departure point for the Catalina Express ferry to Avalon.

Answer: This family trip report offers a detailed, day-by-day look at a 2.5-day visit to San Diego with two kids (ages 16 and 12), highlighting attractions, meals, and accommodations.

Answer: Both Encinitas and Solana Beach are charming small coastal towns in North County San Diego and can make a pleasant base for a few days. They each have a relaxed, small-town California vibe with beaches, boutiques, and good restaurants, similar in spirit to Ojai or Carpinteria.

Answer: For a laid-back yet food-focused San Diego trip in June, your plan is actually very reasonable for 2-3 days. Since your son enjoys downtime, spacing activities out and prioritizing “must-dos” like the Zoo will help balance sightseeing with relaxation.

Answer: Your plan for a quick San Diego visit sounds well-paced and allows you to experience some of the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. Since your time is limited, focusing on coastal views, iconic neighborhoods, and a touch of culture will maximize the experience.

Answer: For a short, 2-night stay in downtown San Diego with a family of four, both Springhill Suites Downtown/Bay Front and Embassy Suites Downtown/Bay Front are solid choices, but there are some key differences that could influence your decision based on your plans.

Answer: Great question! For a family trip in October in San Diego — especially with SeaWorld, the Zoo, possibly a Padres game, and beach time on your agenda — staying around Mission Bay or Mission Beach tends to give the best mix of convenience and kid-friendly amenities.

Answer: Whale watching in San Diego is a fantastic activity for families with teens, especially in early March when gray whales are migrating along the coast. San Diego has several reputable operators, and many cater well to families, providing educational commentary and sometimes extra amenities to keep teenagers engaged.

Answer: Both the Wyndham Bayside and the Best Western Plus Bayside are centrally located in downtown San Diego near the waterfront, so you can easily walk to Seaport Village, the USS Midway, and the Gaslamp Quarter from either hotel. The main differences come down to brand, amenities, pricing, and overall guest experience.

Answer: Your Valentine’s trip to San Diego sounds wonderful, with a nice mix of beach, nature, and city attractions. Since you’ll be splitting your stay between Oceanside and La Jolla, you can enjoy both a more laid-back coastal vibe and a slightly more upscale, scenic environment for the second part of your trip.

Answer: Coronado Island is a beautiful destination and parking can be tricky, especially in the mornings and on weekends. Here’s a detailed overview of your options and what to expect: