3 day itinerary for San Diego

Itinerary

That sounds like an exciting trip! San Diego is such a vibrant city with so much to offer, and a quick jaunt to Joshua Tree will be a fantastic adventure. Let’s dive into your 3-day itinerary!

## Day 1: Saturday - Arrival and Exploring La Jolla

Morning:

• Arrive in La Jolla: Start your day with a lovely breakfast at The Cottage in La Jolla. They have delicious options like lemon ricotta pancakes and a great coffee selection.
• Explore La Jolla Cove: After breakfast, take a stroll along the stunning coastline. Don’t miss the chance to see the sea lions basking on the rocks!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at George’s at the Cove: Enjoy a meal with a view! The rooftop terrace is perfect for soaking in the ocean breeze.
• Visit the La Jolla Tide Pools: If the tide is low, explore the tide pools at the La Jolla Shores. It’s a great spot for some family fun and to see marine life up close.

Evening:

• Dinner in La Jolla: Head to Puesto for some delicious tacos and margaritas.
• Catch a Padres Game: If the Padres are playing at home, grab some tickets and enjoy the game at Petco Park. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s a great way to kick off your trip!

## Day 2: Sunday - Joshua Tree Adventure

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at Bencotto Italian Kitchen in Little Italy or a local café before hitting the road.
• Drive to Joshua Tree: It’s about a 2.5-hour drive, so leave early to maximize your time in the park. The drive is scenic, so enjoy the views!

Afternoon:

• Explore Joshua Tree National Park: Once you arrive, head straight to the park. Stop by the Joshua Tree Visitor Center for maps and tips.
• Hiking: Consider the Hidden Valley Trail (1 mile loop) for a relatively easy hike with stunning rock formations. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the Barker Dam Trail (1.3 miles) for a chance to see some wildlife.

Evening:

• Dinner in Joshua Tree: After a day of exploring, grab dinner at Crossroads Café for some hearty comfort food.
• Stargazing: Joshua Tree is known for its dark skies, so find a good spot to lay back and enjoy the stars. It’s a magical experience!

## Day 3: Monday - Return to San Diego

Morning:

• Breakfast in Joshua Tree: Start your day with breakfast at Pie for the People for some delicious New York-style pizza or a classic diner breakfast at Royal Siam Cuisine Thai Restaurant.
• More Park Exploration: If you have time, take a short hike or visit some of the iconic rock formations like Skull Rock or Cholla Cactus Garden.

Afternoon:

• Drive Back to San Diego: Head back to San Diego, and if you have time, stop by Old Town San Diego State Historic Park for a taste of California’s history and some great shops.
• Lunch in Old Town: Enjoy some authentic Mexican food at Café Coyote or Old Town Mexican Café.

Evening:

• Relax at the Beach: Spend your last evening unwinding at Mission Beach or Pacific Beach. Grab a beachside dinner at The Fishery or Kono’s Café for some casual bites.
• Sunset: Don’t forget to catch the sunset! It’s a perfect way to wrap up your San Diego adventure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the Padres schedule and book your game tickets in advance.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for your Joshua Tree adventure, especially if you plan on hiking.
• Don’t forget your camera for all the beautiful sights!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing trip filled with fun, adventure, and great memories! Enjoy your time in San Diego and Joshua Tree! 🌞🌵⚾️