In April, I drove down to San Diego for my cousin’s bachelorette party, and it reminded me why this city has always been one of my favorite places. As a Southern California native, I have spent a lot of time in San Diego over the years. It is the perfect mix of fun, laid-back, and just busy enough to feel exciting.
Since this trip was kid-free, this guide focuses on an adults-only weekend in San Diego. If you are planning a girls’ trip, couples getaway, or a weekend without kids, this guide is for you. I will definitely be sharing a family-friendly version soon.
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Where to Stay: Gaslamp Quarter
I recommend making the Gaslamp Quarter your home base for an adults-only trip to San Diego. On our most recent trip, we stayed at the Kimpton Solamar Hotel (now the Margaritaville Hotel San Diego Gaslamp Quarter), and I would absolutely stay there again.
The location is hard to beat. You can walk to restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, which makes the whole weekend feel easy. The hotel has a fun rooftop pool and bar area with seating, fire pits, outdoor games, and a water station. They also offer an evening SoCal Hour with complimentary wine and local beer, plus coffee and tea in the morning.
One thing I did not realize until later is that the hotel also offers complimentary bikes, which is such a fun way to explore the city.
Parking at the hotel is expensive, so I recommend parking off-site if you are able.
Other Places to Stay
If you want to splurge, the Pendry San Diego is a beautiful option. We stopped there for drinks one afternoon, and the entire hotel feels upscale but still fun and welcoming.
Day 1: Arrival, Dinner, and Drinks
Depending on your arrival time, Day 1 can be very relaxed. If you get in early, head straight to the pool at the Kimpton Solamar, grab a drink from the Upper East Bar, and play a few lawn games. They also have a weekday happy hour from 3 pm to 6 pm.
Dinner Options Within Walking Distance
I am not overly concerned with how fancy a place is. If the food is good, I am happy. San Diego food can get expensive, so I kept that in mind when choosing these options.
Whiphand is about a five-minute walk and offers French-inspired American food that feels both casual and elevated.
Fairweather Bar is a rooftop spot overlooking Petco Park. The food is simple, but they are known for their tiki-inspired drinks and vacation vibes.
Basic Bar and Pizza is another great option if you are craving something easy and familiar. If you want pizza but with a slightly more upscale feel, Biga is also nearby.
Other walkable options include BESHOCK Ramen, Burger Lounge, Half Door Brewing, and Fuego.
Dinner Options If You Want to Drive or Uber
Little Italy has great food choices and a fun atmosphere.
The Crack Shack serves comfort food with a California twist.
Queenstown Public House is known for its cozy atmosphere.
El Camino offers Mexican food with fun decor.
Kettner Exchange has an outdoor rooftop bar where you could easily spend the whole evening.
Late Night Drinks and Dessert
If you want to head back to the hotel after dinner, I completely understand. But if you are staying out late, there are plenty of options.
The Deck at Moonshine Flats has a country vibe, games, and a large dance floor. Tipsy Cow is another casual bar option. If you want something themed, Trailer Park After Dark is always entertaining. You can also head back to the Upper East Bar at the hotel if you want to stay close to your room.
For dessert, CrunchTime Popcorn and Ice Cream is a fun late-night stop.
Day 2: Coffee, Brunch, and Exploring
Coffee
I tend to wake up early, even on vacation, so good coffee is a must. While the Kimpton Solamar offers free coffee and tea, I usually want iced coffee.
Spill the Beans Coffee and Bagels is just a couple of blocks away and was recommended by the hotel staff. It is a cute little spot with good coffee and bagels. I had an everything bagel and a cold brew latte.
Other coffee shops worth checking out include Copa Vida and Genteel Coffee Co.
If you want something sweet after coffee, Donut Bar or The Morning After are nearby.
Brunch Options
If sleeping in and sitting down for brunch is more your style, these are great options, all within walking distance.
Rustic Root is known for its mimosa tray and great food.
Breakfast Republic has a horchata cold brew cocktail that sounds amazing, and everyone I know who has eaten there raves about it.
Garage Kitchen and Bar is another fun spot that works well for brunch or lunch.
Daytime Activities
One of the best things about the Kimpton Solamar is the pool area. You could easily spend the entire day there. I had a BLT by the pool while my cousins enjoyed frozen rosé.
Another option is heading to the Little Italy Mercato Farmers Market, which runs from 8 am to 2 pm. There are tons of vendors, live music, and plenty of food to snack on while you walk around.
Balboa Park is another great way to spend the day. There is something for everyone. I would wander through the Botanical Building, Spanish Village Art Center, and the Timken Museum of Art, then grab a bite at The Prado or Panama 66.
If you are looking for Instagram-worthy spots, check out You and Yours Distillery for handcrafted cocktails, Communal Coffee for its famous coffee and flowers wall, Pigment in North Park, or the Greetings from San Diego mural.
Of course, you can also head to the beach. You can even take the ferry to Coronado Island and explore for the afternoon.
Dinner and Nightlife
You can revisit any of the dinner spots from Day 1 or try something new.
Quartyard is an outdoor urban park worth checking out. There are food trucks, a bar, and plenty of space to hang out. Everything is outdoors, so keep that in mind.
After dinner and drinks, head to You and Yours Distillery if you have not already. It is also a great place for photos.
For a fun night out, Punch Bowl Social is a great option. They have bowling, karaoke rooms, shuffleboard, arcade games, and board games. It is hard to get bored there.
Day 3: Head Home
I usually try to leave early on the last day to avoid traffic. Getting home by the afternoon makes the transition back to real life a little easier.
Have you been to San Diego? What is your favorite area or must-visit spot?