We're Sorry!

Internet reservations are currently not available for this KOA: Boulevard / Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday

Please call the campground directly to make your reservations at 1-619-766-4480. Thank you.

The Ultimate San Diego Itinerary for 5 Days

The Ultimate San Diego Itinerary for 5 Days

San Diego is a popular destination with a super climate, pristine beaches and world-class family attractions. Planning a day trip to San Diego is a great way to experience the city. However, to truly experience all that this amazing city has to offer, we recommend spending at least 5 days in San Diego.

We know that planning a 5 day trip can be super stressful, especially if you’re planning on traveling with your family or kids. To make planning your vacation as easy as possible, here is the ultimate itinerary for five days in San Diego.

San Diego Zoo enclosure with a large Bengal Tiger amid jungle foliage and stone walls.

Day One 

Start your San Diego vacation itinerary at one of the most popular urban parks in the country, Balboa Park.

Spend your day at San Diego Zoo learning about conservation and the amazing animals. Then start museum hopping and exploring the rest of the Park. Visit the San Diego Air and Space Museum — one of the largest aviation museums in the country and the San Diego Natural History Museum.

Walk through the Japanese Friendship Garden and enjoy the cherry blossom gardens, waterfalls, koi ponds and bonsai trees.

Where to Eat

There are plenty of options for food near the San Diego Zoo. We recommend eating at one of the various San Diego Zoo food stands or Albert's Restaurant. Albert's Restaurant is a truly one-of-a-kind experience as this eatery is located in the middle of the zoo and overlooks a private waterfall. Admission to the Zoo is required to visit this unique eatery. If you decide to skip the San Diego Zoo, or simply want another option, we recommend you check out The Prado Restaurant in Balboa Park. The Prado Restaurant is great for a family dinner or a romantic evening, especially if you enjoy seafood. 

Large cliff faces of the La Jolla Cove topped with green palm trees overlooking the San Diego Coast.

Day Two 

Next up is La Jolla — a picturesque coastline region with 360-degree waterfront views. Spend the day at one of the many beaches, including La Jolla Cove and La Jolla Shores Beach — one of the largest stretches of golden sand in the area. While you're out in the water, paddle over to the Underground Water Park access point to snorkel with leopard sharks, rays and orange garibaldi. You can also learn more about the local sea creatures while taking in stunning views at the Birch Aquarium. 

After spending a couple of hours in nature, head into town for some shopping and art. There's a ton to see, from the La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego branch to chic collections like the Peter Lik Gallery. If you're looking for something to do at night, you can catch a show at The Comedy Store for a few laughs and an experience you'll never forget! 

Where to Eat

While you're in town, make sure to grab some delicious tacos at The Taco Stand — a popular Taqueria in the area. You can even stop by in the morning to fuel up with a breakfast burrito. Harry's Coffee Shop is another fantastic breakfast spot, offering fresh pancakes, omelets and coffee. 

If you're looking for a place to sit down, George's Ocean Terrace is one of the local favorites with unique lunch and dinner options to enjoy while you overlook the coastline. The Marine Room is another mainstay in La Jolla, serving up mouthwatering cuisine backed by over 80 years of history. 

Large white aircraft with a red and black propellor sitting atop the Midway Aircraft Carrier.

Day Three 

San Diego is brimming with history, but it's just too big of a city to walk and see everything there is to see in a day. Instead, one of the best ways to explore this beautiful area is on one of the iconic trolleys. 

There are tons of different tours you can experience while in the area, whether you want to visit the Gaslamp Quarter and take in the Victorian Style streets or enjoy the various Old Town stops and bask in the history. The San Diego Scenic Tour is a four-hour ride that will take you through all these areas, from San Diego's Little Italy to the Midway aircraft carrier. 

But, the excitement doesn't stop there. You can climb aboard a Trolley Tour of the "haunted" Whaley House Mansion or travel beneath the light of the moon and get to know our city at night. If you want to get your toes wet, you can even explore the region by water on a Harbor Tour to see if you can spot sea lions, whales, dolphins and more — or hop on an amphibious vehicle with San Diego SEAL Tours to experience the sights on land and water. Cruise through San Diego Bay to get a unique perspective of America's Finest City! 

Where to Eat 

Make your way inland to Little Italy and enjoy a sandwich, pizza or light meal at Mona Lisa Italian Foods. This spot is in its third generation of ownership, originally opening its doors back in 1956. Whether you visit their deli or sit-down restaurant, your taste buds are sure to thank you.

If you want to explore the city's craft brewing culture, Pizza Port Ocean Beach Brewing is the perfect place to enjoy drinks alongside your wings, tater tots and other comfort foods. You could also head to Harbor Island at night for some top-of-the-line surf and turf at Island Prime. 

Scenic shot of the Coronado Hotel with its iconic red octahedral roof and white terraces.

Day Four

Visit the charming Coronado Island and see everything this magical town has to offer. The Crown City is just 15 minutes from downtown San Diego and is accessible by a five-minute ferry ride. You can also drive over the sky-high, 200-foot Coronado Bridge to get to the island.

Once you're within the city limits, slow down and explore the area on foot or hop on the Old Town Trolly Tour so you don't miss a thing. Go on a trike tour at Coronado Tidelands Park and roll past the architectural "Hansel and Gretel" and "Wizard of Oz" homes. Watch for Hotel Del Coronado — one of the nation's finest luxury resorts. 

Once you're done sightseeing, you'll have the opportunity to see some of the best beaches in America. The North Beach offers plenty of stunning views to enjoy while watching your four-legged friend splash in the waves. You should also check out the Ferry Landing Marketplace, offering a relaxing beach area and a complete waterfront experience with tons of places to eat and shop. 

Another great place to visit is Silver Strand, more commonly known as “The Strand” by locals. The Strand is a 7-mile-long stretch of sandy beach that connects Coronado Island with Imperial Beach. The Strand has some of the most scenic views in all of San Diego. We recommend visiting at sunset for a beautiful conclusion to your day. 

Where to Eat 

If you're looking for a sweet treat, Moo Time Creamery and Clayton's Coffee Shop are must-visit spots to hit while you're in Coronado. Miguel's Cocina is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, while Peohe's is a more upscale establishment with a Tropical and Asian-inspired menu and a stunning vantage point of the city's skyline.  

Taste the best New England Clam Chowder on the West Coast when you visit Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill. This establishment provides a relaxed and comfortable environment to take in the sights and sounds of Glorietta Bay and taste the bursting flavors of fresh seafood.  

Closeup of a roller coaster at belmont park being illuminated by a bright orange sunset in the background.

Day Five

A San Diego family trip would only be complete with a visit to Belmont Park. This fan-favorite location opened its doors in 1925 and has undergone decades and millions of dollars worth of renovations to continue its operation. Today, you can spend the day on rides and activities suitable for all ages, from roller coasters to mini golfing. Make sure to ride the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster — this thrilling ride has been a National Historic Landmark since 1990.

Kids love bumper cars, carousels and thrill-seeking fun, and Belmont Park is the perfect place for them to enjoy all these activities and more. Rent a bike, explore Belmont, or relax and unwind at Club Aqua while the kids have fun at Club Aqua Kids Camp. Belmont Park is free to enter, making it perfect for an affordable day out with the family. 

Where to Eat 

Belmont Park is home to fantastic dining options with an oceanfront view, whether you want to have a quick bite or a sit down meal at the Beach House. This waterfront restaurant offers some of the best tacos and tequila with tiki bars, fire pits and cabanas to lounge under. 

Another option is to head to Draft to catch the game, choose from over 55 local draft beers and enjoy well-crafted American foods. If you are just looking for a snack around the park, you will have your choice of burgers, hot dogs, pizzas and soft-serve ice cream!  

Where to Stay for Your Trip to San Diego

Choose something different from the traditional hotel or vacation rental for your 5 days in San Diego. Boulevard / Cleveland National Forest KOA Holiday offers a unique base to explore San Diego. The campground is located outside of San Diego, allowing you to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city. You can explore the fantastic attractions with your family and return to a quiet haven to relax and unwind once your day has been completed.  

Bring your RV and stay at the Pull-Thru or Back-In Sites, camp at the Tent Sites or reserve a Deluxe Cabin.

Make your vacation memorable by adding a stay at our campground to your San Diego itinerary. Make a reservation today!

You May Also Enjoy

Share This: