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San Diego

United States · Coast · USD · 32.715700, -117.161100
Family friendly 6.8/10 · Rank 955 of 2 709
Best season: March-May, September-November

Best for

San Diego is an ideal place for beach, Mexican cuisine and family entertainment lovers. It is recommended for families, couples and outdoor enthusiasts. Suitable for those seeking perfect climate and plenty of activities. Least suitable for those seeking solitude and quiet.

Best season

March-May, September-November

Daily budget
$217.00 (≈ 18 211 ₽)
For 7 days
$1 519.00 (≈ 127 474 ₽)
San Diego is a sunny city on the Pacific coast, known for its perfect beaches, naval traditions, and excellent climate. The world-famous zoo, Balboa Park, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter offer a variety of experiences. Here you can enjoy Mexican cuisine and a relaxed California vibe.
Summer
25.0°C
Winter
10.0°C
Sea
22.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

moderate

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

San Diego residents are relaxed and friendly people, valuing quality of life. The city is known for its sports and beach culture. The atmosphere in the city is calm and friendly.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Perfect climate year-round
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Balboa Park — a cultural hub
  • World-class zoo
  • Mexican cuisine
  • Fewer tourists than in Los Angeles
  • Friendly atmosphere

Cons

  • High cost of living
  • Limited public transport
  • Beach overcrowded
  • Less nightlife than in Los Angeles
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
20.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
25.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
25.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
15.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
19.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
10.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
20.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
22.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
December-March
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
golden
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
mild
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
La Jolla Shores / Coronado Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
Yes
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
None
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
None
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

San Diego is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins in the coastal waters of San Diego are represented by purple sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus purpuratus), common in tide pools and on rocky reefs
  • Sea urchins are found in tide pools along with hermit crabs, anemones and sea hares. Special swimming shoes recommended

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs are absent off the coast of San Diego — the region belongs to the temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean. Marine ecosystems are represented by rocky reefs, kelp forests and temperate fish species
  • Diverse marine organisms inhabit the La Jolla Underwater Park, including sea urchins, starfish, octopuses and other invertebrates

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish are occasionally found off the coast during summer months.

Sharks — details

  • Leopard sharks (Triakis semifasciata) inhabit the waters off San Diego, gathering in the shallows of La Jolla every summer. This is one of the largest predictable leopard shark gatherings in the world
  • Leopard sharks are harmless to humans. Blue sharks and other species are also found in San Diego waters, but attacks on humans are extremely rare
Attractions

Balboa Park

One of the best urban parks in the US with museums, a zoo and gardens. The heart of San Diego's culture.

San Diego Zoo

A world-famous zoo with over 3,700 animals. One of the best zoos in the world.

USS Midway Museum

A museum on board the legendary aircraft carrier. A huge collection of aircraft and military equipment.

La Jolla Cove

A scenic cove with sea lions and clear water. A popular snorkelling spot.

Torrey Pines State Reserve

A nature reserve with pines and ocean views. A great place for hiking.

Old Town San Diego

A historic area with Mexican architecture and restaurants. The birthplace of the city.

Best areas

Downtown (Gaslamp Quarter)

The heart of the city with historic architecture, restaurants and nightlife.

La Jolla

An upscale coastal area with beaches, cliffs and sea lions.

Pacific Beach

A trendy beach area with cafes, bars and a youthful atmosphere.

Must-try food

Mexican cuisine

San Diego is famous for authentic Mexican food: tacos, burritos, enchiladas.

Seafood

Fresh crab, shrimp, fish and oysters. Served in waterfront restaurants.

California burgers

Juicy burgers with avocado and local produce.

Craft beer

The city has over 150 breweries. San Diego is the craft beer capital of the US.

Smoothies

Refreshing fruit smoothies from local produce.

Where to go next

Legoland California

A LEGO theme park. 30 minutes away.

Disneyland

The famous theme park in Anaheim. 1.5 hours away.

Anza-Borrego Desert

A scenic desert with rare flora and fauna. 2 hours away.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
San Diego International Airport (SAN).
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Visa
Visa requirements
required (ESTA for visa-waiver countries)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
March-May, September-November
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$230.00
≈ 19 302 ₽
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$254.00
≈ 21 316 ₽
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$300.00
≈ 25 176 ₽
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$190.00
≈ 15 945 ₽
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$18.00
≈ 1 511 ₽
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$42.00
≈ 3 525 ₽
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$4.50
≈ 378 ₽
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$6.50
≈ 545 ₽
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$2.00
≈ 168 ₽
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Burger
Average price for a burger
$13.00
≈ 1 091 ₽
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$7.50
≈ 629 ₽
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$11.00
≈ 923 ₽
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$55.00
≈ 4 616 ₽
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$90.00
≈ 7 553 ₽
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$100.00
≈ 8 392 ₽
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$22.00
≈ 1 846 ₽
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽
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Frequently asked questions
San Diego: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is March-May, September-November. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
San Diego: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +25.0°C, during the day — up to +25.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
San Diego: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +10.0°C, during the day — up to +19.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
San Diego: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +22.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
San Diego: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on December-March. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
San Diego: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "sand" surface, golden sand, clear water. The most popular beaches: La Jolla Shores / Coronado Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
San Diego: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry. Lifeguards are on duty on the beaches.
San Diego: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: jellyfish. San Diego is a safe resort. Beaches are equipped with lifeguards. Main risks are jellyfish in summer.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
San Diego: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $217.00 (≈ 18 211 ₽) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
San Diego: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $40.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $150.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $230.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $254.00 per night, an apartment — $190.00 per night, a villa — $300.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
San Diego: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $18.00, dinner at a restaurant — $42.00, a cup of cappuccino — $4.50, a 0.5L beer — $6.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $2.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
San Diego: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $2.50, a short taxi ride — $15.00, car rental — $55.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
San Diego: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Balboa Park — One of the best urban parks in the US with museums, a zoo and gardens. The heart of San Diego's culture.; San Diego Zoo — A world-famous zoo with over 3,700 animals. One of the best zoos in the world.; USS Midway Museum — A museum on board the legendary aircraft carrier. A huge collection of aircraft and military equipment.; La Jolla Cove — A scenic cove with sea lions and clear water. A popular snorkelling spot.; Torrey Pines State Reserve — A nature reserve with pines and ocean views. A great place for hiking.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
San Diego: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Mexican cuisine — San Diego is famous for authentic Mexican food: tacos, burritos, enchiladas.; Seafood — Fresh crab, shrimp, fish and oysters. Served in waterfront restaurants.; California burgers — Juicy burgers with avocado and local produce.; Craft beer — The city has over 150 breweries. San Diego is the craft beer capital of the US.; Smoothies — Refreshing fruit smoothies from local produce.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
San Diego: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Downtown (Gaslamp Quarter) — The heart of the city with historic architecture, restaurants and nightlife.; La Jolla — An upscale coastal area with beaches, cliffs and sea lions.; Pacific Beach — A trendy beach area with cafes, bars and a youthful atmosphere.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
San Diego: is a visa required?
Visa: required (ESTA for visa-waiver countries). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
San Diego: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — San Diego International Airport (code SAN). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
San Diego: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — USD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $217.00 (≈ 18 211 ₽). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
San Diego: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
San Diego: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
San Diego: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Legoland California — A LEGO theme park. 30 minutes away.; Disneyland — The famous theme park in Anaheim. 1.5 hours away.; Anza-Borrego Desert — A scenic desert with rare flora and fauna. 2 hours away.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

6.8/10
Overall rank: 955 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 639

Best season

March-May, September-November

Useful information

Currency: USD
Coordinates: 32.715700, -117.161100