Discover the Ultimate Getaway for a Weekend in San Diego

Winter Weekend in San Diego

It should really come as no surprise that the weather on a weekend in San Diego during the winter time is very mild and beautiful! Jeans and a light sweater are all you need in this Southern California City! Once a year, Spencer and I escape the cold winter months in Utah and head to SD to see the sun again. Utah is a bit dreary, chilly, and overcast from November to late April, but San Diego is the perfect place to forget the Winter Blues!

What to Do on a Weekend in San Diego

Rent Bikes or Ride the Boardwalk at Belmont Park

Now a bit of a tradition, Spencer and I love to ride bikes near the beach! There are a lot of bike rental shops near the Pacific Beach Pier where you can request a bike for the hour or the entire day. If you stay at the boutique hotel Tower 23, you get to use their complimentary bikes! Riding along the paved sidewalks near the sand is a great way to get exercise, people watch, and have a good time.

Meet the seal pups at the Children’s Pool

If you want to enjoy the wildlife of San Diego without breaking the bank, look no further than the Children’s Pool in La Jolla! Originally, this small, sandy beach was meant to provide an area for kids to play in the ocean safely. Naturally, the seals loved the beach and have taken over. During the later winter months, you can find mama seals basking their pregnant bellies in the sunshine amongst rows of seagulls enjoying the private beach. Please remember that these are wild animals and should not be disturbed; there is plenty of space to view them from the stairs up above.

Hang Out at Mission Beach

Typically, Mission Beach is going to be the best place to people watch, get souvenirs, and feel the “California vibes”. While walking around, you’ll find a ton of people getting in their daily exercise (running, biking, boarding, blading). You’ll also happen upon many local shops peddling San Diego gifts, perfect to take home for anyone that didn’t make it on the trip. We didn’t have a hard time finding a place to eat at Mission Beach! Fun fact: San Diego is one on the list for dog friendliest cities in the US. If you’re an animal lover, be sure to check out dog beach nearvy!

Hike Torrey Pines While Visiting on a Weekend in San Diego

One of my favorite things about California is the ease of staying active outside! Torrey Pines State Park was highly recommended to us to take a hike filled with ocean views, geological formations, and easy terrain. This nature walk is beautiful!

Where to Stay for a Weekend in San Diego

Tower 23

If you’re looking for a modern atmosphere, Tower 23 Hotel in San Diego is a lifestyle location you cannot pass up! While living it up on the oceanfront private balcony, Spencer and I came to the conclusion that this hotel is perfect for young couples, honeymooners, and beach-goers looking for luxury accommodations. The rooms are gorgeous, the staff is kind, and you get free bike rental and 2 drinks upon arrival. 

Bahia Resort

Alternatively, if you’re looking for accommodations that are better suited for a large family or kids, Bahia Resort is the resort for you! Spence and I fell in love with their relaxing pool, large rooms with a living room and kitchenette, and it’s right near a private bay area with a beach! Now, it’s not quite at the level as Sanur hotels on the beachfront, but it is amazing for a US vacation spot. Don’t forget to check out the resident seals that live at the resort, Gracie and Billy.

Must Visit Spots for Dining

Grab Brunch at The Cottage in La Jolla During your Weekend in San Diego

While you’re over visiting the seals in La Jolla, head over to grab brunch at The Cottage! We randomly found the restaurant in a frantic hunger and left feeling satisfied by their breakfast plates! Bonus: if you go around 10 am, it’s warm enough to sit on their patio. I recommend the Morning Glory sandwich and their scones are to die for!

Instagrammable Brunch at Morning Glory

To be honest, we didn’t make it to this famous brunch spot– but it was near the top of my list! The restaurant has pink-hued furniture, perfect for a brunch photo! Rumor has it that their pancakes are divine. Be prepared for a long wait, especially on the weekend.

Luigi’s at the Beach for Lunch Pizza

Whenever we get a hankering for pizza in SD, Luigi’s at the Beach hits the spot! It’s like eating East Coast pizza on the West Coast.

Cafe Bahia

Without a doubt, I used to think that hotel restaurants were not going to deliver top quality food. As it turns out, I was definitely wrong! One of my favorite meals from our trip was dinner at Cafe Bahia, a restaurant located at Bahia Resort. Their Pan-Seared Scallops entree was mouth-watering good and their drinks are phenomenal.

Have you been to San Diego recently? If so, what else would you add to this list?