Thinking about a Los Angeles to San Diego road trip?
The distance between the two cities is only 120 miles but there is a lot to do in between. In this 10 day Southern California road trip itinerary I’m sharing everything about my trip including, top things to experience, outdoor adventures, delicious food and gorgeous beaches.
If you’re a Californian, feel free to break this itinerary down and use it for day trips or weekend getaways.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CALIFORNIA
California typically has great weather year round. If you aren’t a fan of the heat, than I would suggest skipping a visit in the summer months. During late May and early July is referred to as June Gloom. During that period, a marine layer covers the coastal areas all morning. Winter days are generally shorter and the sunsets around 5:30 pm. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit for most. I visited in October and the weather was perfect! Literally, our entire 10 day trip there was blue skies and temperatures in the low-mid 70s.
HOW TO GET TO CALIFORNIA
Depending on where you’re located, it is possible to drive or fly to California. Since I am located in Florida, I flew directly into Los Angeles (LAX) airport. This flight is approximately 5.5 hour in duration. When returning to Florida, I flew out of San Diego International Airport.
You might be wondering why I didn’t fly in and out of the same airport. Well, that’s because this is a road trip and I began in Los Angeles and ended in San Diego. When booking flights, I used the multi city option, which allows you to search and book flights using multiple stops. You could also just book one way flights each way. I didn’t find it worth it to drive all the way back to the original airport I flew into, however I know there are some people who may do this based on their budget.
Alternatively, you can also fly into San Diego International Airport and fly out from Los Angeles Airport. All depends on your preference, however I will be sharing my route, which is from Los Angeles to San Diego.
HOW TO GET AROUND CALIFORNIA
Well this is a road trip, so clearly we will be getting around in a vehicle! Duh! When my husband and I landed at LAX airport we took an airport shuttle to Avis where we picked up our rental car. I recommend booking prior to your trip and enrolling in the Avis Preferred Program. By booking in advance, you make your arrival process so much easier. When we arrived at Avis, we were given expedited service and drove off in our vehicle in less than 10 minutes.
CALIFORNIA TRAFFIC
California is known to have heavy traffic regardless of the time or the day. Traffic in Los Angeles is terrible (it is one of the worst in the entire world). You want to avoid freeways during rush hours (6:00-9:00 a.m., 4:00-7:00 p.m.). In this road trip, since you are traveling south, you are going to be driving against traffic in the morning so it won’t be as bad, but still expect traffic as you are on a road trip.
WHAT TO PACK
Southern California is known for it’s warmer temperatures, but depends on when you visit. Bathing suits are highly recommended. I would suggest bringing a few long sleeves and a jacket or two for after the sun goes down. It can get into the 50s at night in the colder months of the year. Recommend you check the weather before your visit.
SHOP MY POST
MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA STOPS
- Los Angeles (4 Days)
- Manhattan Beach (Stop along the drive)
- Huntington Beach (1 Day)
- Newport Beach (Stop along the drive)
- Laguna Beach (Stop along the drive)
- Temecula Valley (1 Day)
- San Diego (4 Days)
LOS ANGELES
WHAT TO DO
Visit The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum and located right next to the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Tickets are completely free. Therefore, I recommend you to buy them online in advance to avoid queuing. Second, you can admire the pretty awesome Infinity Mirrored Room from Yayoi Kusama. The installation is basically a mirror-lined room with flashing LED lights. You enter it through a door and then have 45 seconds to enjoy the breathtaking atmosphere inside. Parking is available under the museum. Enter on 2nd St. between Hope St. and Grand Ave. Rates are $15 for 3 hours with museum validation, and $5 for each additional 15 minutes, with a $25 daily maximum. There is a $15 flat rate after 5 p.m. on weeknights and all day on weekends. Additional parking is available at other adjacent garages and lots around Grand Ave. The Broad does not provide validation for any other parking garages or lots.
Address | 221 S. Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012 Hours | Closed on Mondays. Tuesday & Wednesday: 11 am – 5 pm, Thursday & Friday: 11 am – 8 pm, Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm, Sunday 10 am – 6 pm
Admission | Free
Website | https://www.thebroad.org
Check out street art – On the east side of downtown LA, there’s a neighborhood called the Arts District. In this particular area, people gave life to old industrial buildings by painting colorful murals and quotes on their walls. Moreover, there are plenty of art galleries and some really nice clothing shops to find. Time to grab your camera and start the hunt for the coolest street art shot!
Visit Little Tokyo – This area is the heart of the largest Japanese-American population in all of North America, and is full of all things Japanese – a Sanrio store and all! Try all the treats, including fruity pebbles and bacon mini donuts from Cafe Dulce, mochi ice cream from Mikawaya and bubble tea.
Explore Venice Beach
Visit one of California’s popular beach towns. We started with brunch at Gjelina and then walked to the Venice sign, about a 10 minute walking distance away.
From there we went to walk the Venice Canals, 5 canals in total lined with houses, sidewalks, and bridges, forming their own little community. It’s a wonderful spot for a leisurely stroll! Plan to spend about 45 minutes to an hour here wandering around this European inspired neighborhood. Click the map here to find some free parking. After your tour through the canals head west toward the ocean until you end up on Ocean Front Walk. This is the path that continues along the beach through Venice, and into Santa Monica. Once you hit this point turn right, and you will be on the Venice Beach Boardwalk.
Venice Beach Boardwalk, will take you roughly 40-60 minutes depending on how leisurely you walk and how many photo stops you take. It’s a flat, easy walk that is extremely doable, but be sure to stay on the pedestrian paths as they intersect and intermingle with the bike paths. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is full of hundreds of street vendors and performers, including break-dancing, jugglers, mimes, and musicians. You’ll also see medical marijuana dispensaries, shops to buy sunglasses, shirts, and other souvenirs, and plenty of restaurants, juice spots and bars, as well as a big amount of homeless – it’s all part of the culture!
Since most of the action on the boardwalk is nearing the end, it’s time to decide if you want to walk the rest of Venice Beach to Santa Monica or rent bicycles. You can see the Santa Monica pier at this point, and it may look close but it is about a 2-mile walk. You can easily rent a bike or BIRD at this point and ride to Venice Beach instead, which is what we opted to do.
Address | 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
Hours | Venice Beach is open year round except Christmas and rainy days
Website | https://www.laparks.org/venice
Visit Santa Monica Pier
Often quite crowded and touristy, but the view of the pier and the adjacent beach is a classic LA sight and not to be missed when you’re on the Westside. Right before the pier along the bike path, there are several places to lock up your bicycles. Find a spot and head on up to the pier. If you rented a Bird scooter, you can end your ride and drop it. You can find another one once you are ready to leave.
On the left side of the pier is Pacific Park, which is free to enter but you pay for each individual ride. The Ferris wheel offers the best views, plus it’s so iconic how could you not?! The ticket prices are about $8 per person.
If you’re not too tired, watch the sunset, which is beautiful. The lights are infectious, and the energy is just booming.
Address | 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Hours | The pier is always open, however individual businesses have certain hours
Website | https://www.santamonicapier.org/
Griffith observatory park
Really get an idea of how large the city is, make your way up to the Observatory, and take in the stunning city panorama below. Wander inside the observatory itself and learn about its impressive history and function. Don’t forget to take a picture with the Hollywood sign in the distance out on the Observatory deck. For parking near the Observatory and on Western Canyon Road the rate is currently $8.00 – $10.00 per hour. There are no refunds. See parking map below. Roads leading up to the Observatory get very congested at busy times (weekends, evenings, holidays, spring break, summer), and parking near the Observatory is very limited. Vehicles may approach the Observatory via the Vermont or Fern Dell entrances to Griffith Park.
Address | 2800 East Observatory Rd Los Angeles, CA 90027 Hours | Closed on Mondays. Tuesday & Friday: 12 p.m – 9 p.m Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m – 10 p.m
Admission | Free
Website | http://www.griffithobservatory.org/
Check out the Hollywood Sign
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without visiting the infamous sign, however, finding the Hollywood sign isn’t as easy as you think! Typing “The Hollywood Sign” into google maps won’t necessarily lead you there. Over the years, local residents have made it more difficult to visit the Hollywood sign by posting fake signs stating roads to the sign are closed. Streets in the neighboring areas are narrow and have become flooded with tourists and this is something locals are not happy about. I suggest if you’re going to visit the Hollywood sign you do it from Lake Hollywood Park. The reason I suggest to visit the Hollywood sign from this area is because you won’t disturb any of the local residents and the views are great. If you’re driving there is plenty of parking along the street.
If you want to hike up behind the Hollywood sign, this is also an option from this area as it will lead you to a hiking trail.
If you’re still confused on how to get to the Hollywood sign, I personally used this video to guide me towards the sign.
Address | 3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Admission | Free
Visit LAMCA
Check out the public display of the Urban Lights out of front of the LA Country Museum of the arts. Admission is $15 if you choose to go inside. Plan to spend 2-4 hours here, depending on how much you want to see, since it is the largest art museum in the western United States!
Address | 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036
Hours | Closed Wednesdays, Thanksgiving and Christmas; Mon, Tues, Thurs 11 a.m – 5 p.m, Friday 11 a.m – 8 p.m, Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m – 7 p.m
Admission | LA residents are free. Non LA residents $25. Teens $10
Website | https://www.lacma.org/
Visit the Iconic Beverly Hills Hotel
For over a century, The Beverly Hills Hotel has been the spot for Hollywood’s brightest lights, the ultimate beacon of glamour. She greets you like a movie star from the moment you pass the iconic signage, step onto the signature red carpet and enter the grand lobby. Stop in for a cocktail ($20+) at The Polo Lounge or just for a stroll if you’re on a budget.
Address | 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Website | https://www.dorchestercollection.com/en/los-angeles/the-beverly-hills-hotel/
Stroll Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills is known around the world as one of the most fashionable places to shop. In the heart of it all sits Rodeo Drive, undeniably one of the most famous streets on the globe.
Address | 295 Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Hours | 10:00 am – 6.00 pm Mon – Sat and 12 noon – 5:00 pm on Sundays
Website | http://rodeodrive-bh.com/
Visit The Grove
The Grove is one of the most popular spots in LA. This outdoor mall is stunning! From all of the delicious restaurants, to the luxury shops, entertainment activities and more, this place has it all.
Address | 189 The Grove Drive Los Angeles, CA 90036
Hours |Mon – Thurs: 10 am – 9 pm; Fri & Sat: 10 am – 10 pm; Sun: 10 am – 8 pm
Website | https://thegrovela.com/
Explore Malibu
Drive around Malibu and explore the beaches. It feels like a whole different world, but is really just 45 minutes from LA (without traffic). Point Dume is another spot in Malibu that often gets missed when tourists come to Malibu. Sitting at the end of Zuma Beach, there is a beautiful beach. It is bounded by a cliff that you can climb and explore. There is even a secret beach if you follow the rocks around at the base of the cliff. Have lunch at Malibu Farms or Malibu Seafood.
Malibu Wine Safari – Explore the 1,000 acre Saddlerock Ranch and vineyard in Malibu. A guide and driver will lead the adventure on custom-built open-air Safari vehicles. You’ll make stops along the way to take in the scenery, taste local wines, and get up close and personal with animals including zebras, camels, alpacas, bison, and even Stanley the Giraffe.
Address | 32111 Mulholland Hwy. Malibu, CA 90265
Hours | Depends on your tour/event
Admission |Prices vary depending on the tour you choose, however prices start at 65 USD per person.
Website | https://www.lasafaris.com/
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
Grand Central Market includes foods from eggslut to sticky mango rice or Mexican tortillas, there’s a big selection of international cuisine that offers something to eat for everyone. Not only the dishes are super yummy, but the prices are pretty affordable too. Open 7 days a week from 8 AM to 10 PM. Located in DT LA.
Website | https://www.grandcentralmarket.com/
Address | 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Night + Market is a combo of 2 of my favorite things: Thai food and spicy food. However, don’t go here if you can’t handle some serious spice (like really, really spicy). And as a sometimes vegetarian/vegan, I love that they can make most of their dishes without meat. My favorites are larb tofu, the crispy rice salad (the vegan version), and vegetarian Pad Thai. Also, their sticky rice is amazing. Open 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM.
Website | http://www.nightmarketsong.com/
Address | 9043 Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069
Perch – Popular Los Angeles rooftop bar and bistro, located in downtown LA with a magical view of the skyscrapers and skyline. The interior has a French bistro-feel and outside seating comes with alot of cozy fireplaces. Two levels, one floor restaurant / bar with inside and outside seating and one floor rooftop terrace, where only drinks are served. Mixed crowd and great atmosphere. Grab a cocktail before heading to The Broad.
Website | https://www.perchla.com/
Address | 448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Sur is a restaurant owned by Lisa Vanderpump. Looking to feel like you’ve traveled abroad without leaving the comfort of West Hollywood? You must stop by Sur! Happy Hour is 5 pm – 7 pm Monday – Sunday. Click here for dinner menu.
Address | 606 North Robertson Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069
Website | http://surrestaurant.com/
Butchers Daughter (Venice) – This Abbott Kinney gem is an extension of their NYC location. It just opened in January and they only take reservations for larger parties so plan accordingly. The menu is vegetarian and they make a great breakfast pizza, spicy kale Caesar salad, Reuben sandwich, and avocado toast. Bonus: The ambiance is lovely! There is residential parking about 1 block away and it’s free all day. Also, try Electric ave behind the restaurant.
Address | 1205 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291
Website | www.thebutchersdaughter.com
Tom Tom Bar – located in West Hollywood. Bar opens at 5:30 PM daily. 10 minute drive from hotel. Click here for menu.
Address | 8932 Santa Monica Blvd. West Hollywood, CA 90069
Website | https://tomtombar.la/
Gjelina is a staple of LA and completes any trip to the west side. You honestly can’t go wrong with anything you order. All their small plates and artisanal pizzas are wonderful. I personally love their mushroom toast, roasted cauliflower, and any of their fish dishes. Click here for reviews.
Website | https://www.gjelina.com/
Address | 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice, CA 90291
Lowell Café – America’s first licensed cannabis consumption lounge and restaurant where diners can eat a meal while consuming smoke cannabis or eat cannabis-infused edibles on the premises. Andrea Drummer is Lowell’s veteran cannabis chef, with seven years experience preparing cannabis-infused meals throughout Los Angeles. Currently no alcohol is served.
Address | 1201 N La Brea Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90038
Website | https://lowellcafe.com/
Pizzana – Fantastic pizza. It’s easy for pizza to be good, but it’s harder to make it fantastic. The Cacio e Pepe pizza is truly UNREAL, and I’m not sure I’ve ever had anything like it. It’s just such a unique combination even for a white pizza that’s executed so well that I recommend a visit to Pizzana just for this. They even offer gluten free crust!
Address | 460 N Robertson Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90048
Website | https://pizzana.com/
La Brea Bakery – In 1989, La Brea Bakery opened its doors and quietly started an artisan bread renaissance. This bakery has a great breakfast menu with gluten free options.
Website | https://www.labreabakery.com/
Address | 468 South La Brea Avenue Los Angeles, California 90036
The Honor Bar in Beverly Hills is pretty much guaranteed to have a wait during peak hours. But its Ding’s Crispy Chicken Sandwich — the holy grail of all chicken sandwiches — is worth every minute spent idling outside. Picture crispy buttermilk-coated chicken paired with Swiss cheese and a slightly spicy kale slaw, cozied up between a pillow-like bun—add a side of hand-cut fries and creatively prepared sushi to that already stunning vision and then wipe the drool off your face. 10 minutes from AC hotel.
Website | https://honorbar.com/
Address | 122 South Beverly Drive Beverly Hills, California 90212
Catch LA – 12,000 square rooftop restaurant serving brunch from 10am – 3pm. With views or LA and the Hollywood Hills the 340 seat retractable rooftop haven invites the outside in as it blends great seafood with sushi and Asian influences and a streaming, shareable style of service with a unique, open-air dining room and elevated, interactive atmosphere. Click here for brunch menu. Located in West Hollywood off Melrose Avenue.
Address | 8715 Melrose Avenue West Hollywood CA 90069
Website | https://catchrestaurants.com/catchla/
Salt and Straw – Portland-based ice cream chain is insane, with the craziest experimental ice cream flavors. You’ll always find a treat here, whether it’s with their Freckled chocolate and Brazilian Bread Ice Cream or their Tomato & Strawberry Sherbet. Open 12pm-11pm daily. 10 minutes from hotel.
Website | https://saltandstraw.com/flavors/#la
Address | 8949 Santa Monica Blvd West Hollywood, CA
Republique – Located in Mid-City, you’ll find that there’s never a dull moment here in this beautiful modern space with a bakery and a cocktail bar. The line goes out the door during the day for decadent pastries and their kimchi fried rice with beef short ribs. Great spot for brunch, lunch or dinner.
Address | 624 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Website | https://republiquela.com/
Malibu Farm – Great breakfast and lunch spot offering locally sourced American cuisine & pier side Pacific views.
Address | 23000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
Website | https://www.malibu-farm.com/
MANHATTAN BEACH
Manhattan Beach is located 19 miles southwest of Los Angeles in the south end of the Santa Monica Bay. You can stroll the pier, walk on the beach or grab a bite. Downtown paid parking meters allow up to 2 hours max.
WHAT TO DO
Play Volleyball – Manhattan Beach is the beach volleyball capital of the U.S. so play a game. Anticipate about a 45 minute drive to get to Manhattan Beach from LA.
Rent a bike – Ride between the two beaches, or even walk it.
Take a Stroll – Walk down to the beachside sidewalk — commonly called The Strand — and take a stroll. You can walk for miles in either direction and never run out of things to see.
Check out Manhattan Beach Pier – Manhattan Beach Pier one of the prettiest piers on the Santa Monica Bay. It’s also home to a small but fun aquarium.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
Love Salt
Address | 317 Manhattan Beach Boulevard, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Website | https://www.loveandsaltla.com/
The Strand House
Address | 117 Manhattan Beach Boulevard Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Website | https://www.thestrandhousemb.com/
Fishing with Dynamite
Address | 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd D, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Website | http://nicksrestaurants.com/nicks-manhattan-beach/
Manhattan Beach Post
Address | 1142 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Website | http://eatmbpost.com/
Nick’s Manhattan Beach
Address | 1148 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Website | http://nicksrestaurants.com/nicks-manhattan-beach/
HUNTINGTON BEACH
Huntington Beach has the perfect beach lifestyle vibe – not too pretentious, or busy. It’s laid back with a touch of sophistication and has the surf and the beach as it’s main vibe!
WHERE TO STAY
We stayed at the Courtyard Huntington Beach Fountain Valley. As a Marriott Rewards member, we typically stay in hotels associated with the Marriott Bonvoy Program. They have hotels pretty much everywhere in the world and your loyalty earns you points towards future hotel stays. This hotel was perfect for our stop in Huntington Beach along our southern California road trip. The hotel is located 15 minutes from Huntington Beach Pier, Pacific City and Disneyland.
WHAT TO DO
Watch the Sunset – A beautiful experience to watch the sunset over Huntington Beach as the sky turns different shades of orange and pink.
Visit Huntington Beach Pier – At 1,850-feet long, it is one of the longest piers on the West Coast and an ideal place to watch surfers catching waves or local fishermen reeling in the big guys.
Go Surfing – The pier at Huntington State Beach is perhaps Southern California’s holiest surf shrine.
Visit Disneyland – You cant visit California without going to the happiest place on earth right?
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
Pacific City Lot 579 – Pacific City’s Modern Food Hall: a true California culinary experience and home to some of the most sought-after and award-winning eateries in Orange County, serving everything from fish tacos to a spaghetti grilled cheese. Click here for a list of options in the food hall.
Address | 21010 Pacific Coast Hwy Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Website | https://www.gopacificcity.com/lot579
Tanner’s – American food with a fusion of California inspired flavors. Happy hour is Monday – Thursday 4-6 pm at the treehouse.
Address | 21080 CA-1, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Website | http://tannershb.com/
LSXO – Vietnamese restaurant in Huntington Beach overlooking the pier. Located inside Blue Gold
Address | 21016 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, CA 92648 Website | https://www.dinebluegold.com/lsxo
Click here for more options. This list of restaurants has been divided according to different areas in Huntington Beach.
NEWPORT BEACH & LAGUNA BEACH
Possibly the most famous places to visit in Orange County are Newport and Laguna Beach.
Newport Beach is said to be California’s Riviera and Laguna Beach is the artistic community filled with beautiful cove beaches. They make for an easy day trip from Huntington Beach. Home to some of Orange County’s best restaurants, boutique shopping, art galleries, and nightlife, it is hard to get bored during a stop in Newport or Laguna Beach.
WHAT TO DO
Watch the Sunset – Some recommended spots to catch a beautiful sunset in Laguna are Table Rock Beach, Treasure Island Park and Crescent Bay Beach Heisler Park.
Gather Around the Fire Pits – Aliso Beach Park, located in South Laguna, is the only beach that provides fire pits within town. Aliso Beach Park is a great spot for an evening bonfire. Bring your friends, something to throw on the grill and make some s’mores. Fire pits are first-come, first serve.
Go to the Beach – Laguna has the main beach at the edge of downtown, or for tide pools head to Shaws Cove, Picnic Beach, or Treasure Island Beach. Other beaches to check out include Victoria Beach with the natural pirate tower, Treasure Island Beach and 1,000 Steps Beach.
Visit a Winery – Newport Beach Vineyards and Winery, founded in 1998 and located on the Upper Newport Beach Bay, produces award winning Meritage Red Wine. Nestled within the vines on a private estate is our exclusive Underground Wine Cave, tropical and botanical gardens, koi ponds, and a bird aviary.
Whale Watching – By land or sea, whale watching in Newport Beach is ranked as one of the top activities and Southern California has some of the best waters for whale watching enthusiasts to explore. Both Newport Landing and Davey’s Locker offer daily guided whale watching tours by experienced professionals year-round.
Visit the Pelican Hill Resort – The Resort at Pelican Hill is situated above the coastline between Newport Beach and Laguna Beach in Southern California. Enjoy a day at the spa, shopping and dining at one of their restaurants.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
Javier’s Restaurant – Amazing Mexican restaurant located along the Pacific Coast Highway. Outstanding views and ambiance.
Address | 7832 Pacific Coast Hwy, Newport Beach, CA 92657 Website | https://www.javiers-cantina.com/
Lido Bottle Works – Specalizes in serving locally sourced and sustainable ingredients along with craft beer, wine and cocktails.
Address | 3408 Via Oporto #103, Newport Beach, CA 92663 Website | https://lidobottleworks.com/
True Food Kitchen – Fresh food with many gluten free options. Has an outdoor patio area. Click here for menu.
Address | 451 Newport Center Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660 Website | https://www.truefoodkitchen.com/newportbeach
Harvest Restaurant – Beautiful restaurant and amazing food with nice views located within the Ranch Hotel.
Address | 31106 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Website | https://www.theranchlb.com/dining/harvest
Cliff Restaurant – Great restaurant located on the water with a stunning view. Great food in a relaxed setting.
Address | 577 South Coast Hwy Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Website | https://www.thecliffrestaurant.com/
TEMECULA VALLEY
Temecula Valley is Southern California’s Wine Country with over 40 wineries. With award winning wines, great restaurants and beautiful gift shops, Temecula Valley Wineries have something for everyone. Click here for a list of the wineries. Rancho California Road is the main road where you’ll find all the wineries. Most wineries are open daily from 10 am – 5 pm.
WHERE TO STAY
We visited Temecula for the day, however if you plan to stay in the area for a few days, I suggest referring to this website for more information. If we had more time we would have definitely stayed in a hotel and explored more of Temecula’s wine country.
WHAT TO DO
Drink wine – Clearly the top thing to do in Southern California’s wine country. You have your choice of over 40 wineries to explore.
Ride a Hot Air Balloon – Visitors can take in a panoramic views of Southern California’s unique scenery with sunrise flights, available year-round. Plan a visit to the Temecula Valley in June to enjoy California’s largest ballooning event, the Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival, where you can experience concerts, wine tasting, balloon launches, and evening glow events.
Go Shopping – The Promenade Temecula is an indoor and outdoor collection of 170 shops, dining and entertainment including favorites like; William Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Coach, Apple, Lululemon, Pressed Juicery, the Disney Store, Macy’s, and many more popular brands.
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
Mama Rosa’s Trattoria at Robert Renzoni Winery – Ever feel like escaping to Tuscany?? Well if you head to Robert Renzoni Winery to check out their gorgeous new restaurant, Mama Rose’s, you will feel like you are in Italy. The winery is located on DePortola off the main road of wineries on Rancho California and the alfresco dining has a gorgeous view of the rolling hills surrounding the property. You feel as if you are in a whole new world.
Address | 37350 De Portola Rd., Temecula, CA 92592
Hours | 12pm – 5pm
Website | https://robertrenzonivineyards.com/mama-rosas-trattoria/
The Restaurant at Ponte – We are a boutique producer, making wines in very small batches; typically 1,500 cases per year for each variety. Temecula Wine Country’s #1 restaurant and a Top 100 Restaurant for Al Fresco Dining in the United States, as rated by TripAdvisor and OpenTable, features outdoor dining surrounded by stunning vineyards and manicured gardens. Outdoor dining is year round, and reservations are encouraged. Click here for reviews and here for lunch menu.
Address | 35001 Rancho California Road Temecula, CA 92591
Hours | Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Website | https://www.pontewinery.com/
Robert Renzoni – Robert Renzoni Estate Vineyards is comprised of 12 acres in the Temecula Valley that is naturally suited to grape growing. Ten of the vineyard’s acres are planted to the classic Bordeaux & Italian grape varieties. Click here for reviews.
Address | 37350 De Portola Road Temecula, California 92592
Hours |Monday – Sunday 11 am – 6 pm; Closed: New Years Day, Super Bowl Sunday, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving and Christmas
Website | https://robertrenzonivineyards.com/
Vindemia Vineyard & Winery – Vindemia Winery is quite the unique find! Located off the main road (Rancho California Road), this vineyard has some of the best wines in the valley. And since it is located up on a hill, there is also a lovely sitting area with gorgeous views over Temecula Valley.
Address | 33133 Vista Del Monte Rd Temecula, CA 92591
Hours | Monday – Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Website | https://vindemia.com/
Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards – Wilson Creek is a charming vineyard with a nice grassy area near the creek to have a picnic and enjoy your wine.
Address | 35960 Rancho California Road Temecula, CA 92591
Hours | Monday – Sunday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Christmas
Website | https://www.wilsoncreekwinery.com/
SAN DIEGO
WHERE TO STAY
We stayed in the popular San Diego neighborhood, North Park. The trendy North Park area, is filled with coffee shops, craft-beer bars and indie boutiques. The restaurant scene is heavy on brunch spots, upscale pubs, taquerias and sushi lounges, and a vibrant nightlife.
We stayed at THIS Air BNB, located 17 minutes from SAN Airport and 25 minutes from downtown. Walking distance to many coffee shops and restaurants like Colima’s Mexican, Breakfast Republic, Communal Coffee and more. Highly recommend this Sonder property. We had a wonderful stay and one of the main reasons we chose this Air BNB was because it included parking in a gated garage. Most hotels in California charge $50 per day to park your vehicle so for that reason alone Air BNB was a better option.
Interested in staying in an Air BNB? If you sign up for Airbnb with my link, you will get up to $55 off. When you book a trip or experience, I will get up to $30 in travel credit, too.
WHAT TO DO
Tour the Coronado Hotel
It’s a quick ride to the opposite side of the island, where you’ll fall in love with the iconic Hotel Del Coronado, one of San Diego’s oldest and most luxurious hotels. It’s worth parking your bike for a bit and wandering through the hotel’s grounds and shops to check out the rich history of the property. A refreshing drink overlooking the beach on the hotel’s outdoor patio is also highly recommended!
Once on Coronado, many people enjoy biking throughout the neighborhoods as well as pedaling along Coronado’s bayside shore; a 16-mile bike path hugs the island. The path provides cyclists, inline skaters and walkers a scenic route to see the Port of San Diego, The Big Bay, San Diego skyline and park grounds of Coronado.
Address | 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Website | https://hoteldel.com/
La Jolla
One of the most expensive postal codes in the US and is dotted with multi-million dollar homes overlooking some of the most stunning cliffside and beach scenery in San Diego.
Not only is the town filled with great restaurants, craft beer pubs, wine bars, and high-end shops, but heading to La Jolla Coves promises views of frolicking sea lions and other marine life. It is one of the best places to go in Southern California to see seals. Start at the La Jolla Caves and walk around to La Jolla Cove to see the resident seals. You can than continue walking around to see more seals at the Children’s Pool.
If you have more time, and want to have a beach day, La Jolla Shores is great area to relax and soak in the sun.
Parking: Limited free street parking is available along Coast Boulevard and nearby streets. It’s timed at 2-3 hours depending on where you are. Do not exceed the time limit because the parking attendants are ruthless. Parking is okay during non-peak weekday late afternoons/evenings and earlier in the mornings during weekdays.
Website | https://lajollabythesea.com/
Balboa Park
The 1200-acre urban park is San Diego’s pinnacle green space and one of the best ways to spend a day exploring. And the best part is entrance and parking to the park is completely free. You might have to pay for tickets to see special events or to get into a few museums within the park.
America’s largest urban cultural park, and is ranked as one of the best parks in the world. It is one of the most unique things to do in Southern California. With 17 museums, a wide variety of gardens, and the San Diego Zoo you could easily spend a day in Balboa Park. Plan to spend a few hours here.
Address | 1549 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101
Website | https://www.balboapark.org/
San Diego’s Old Town
A charming place with historic buildings and adobe architecture. This was where California’s first European settlement was established! You will love Old Town with its vibrant Mexican restaurants, museums with historic sculptures and murals and lively bars. There’s no food better in San Diego than Mexican food! So head to Old Town, a festive spot filled with amazing Mexican restaurants.
Tip | Make sure you dine at Miguel’s Cocina when visiting Old Town!
Website | https://www.oldtownsandiegoguide.com/
The Gaslamp Quarter
A lively downtown neighborhood, known for its nightlife. Clubs, dive bars and cocktail lounges draw a young crowd. We visited later in the afternoon so it was nice to see the quarter during the day and evening.
Website | https://www.gaslamp.org/
Little Italy
Little Italy is a chic, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, packed with trendy cocktail bars, brewpubs and restaurants with bustling patios. Upscale clothing boutiques, indie music venues and quaint piazzas dot the area. This is definitely the place to visit if you’re craving a delicious Italian meal.
Website | https://www.littleitalysd.com/
Visit the San Diego Mural
Popular painting backdrop created by Victor Ving, Lisa Beggs & local artist Dave Persue
Address | 4225 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
WHERE TO EAT/DRINK
The Taco Stand – Awesome tacos, with multiple locations including Downtown and North Park. Very authentic! Highly recommend!
Address | 3000 Upas St Suite 105 Suite 105, San Diego, CA 92104
Website | letstaco.com
Lucha Libre Taco Shop – The food is indulgent, smothered in cheese, and heavy: Tacos and burritos take center stage. Prepare for a low-key, belly-busting meal—an ideal hangover cure. 13 minute walk from Air BNB.
Address | 3016 University Drive
Website | https://www.luchalibretacoshop.com/
Breakfast Republic – Great breakfast spot. I visited the location in North Park, however they have multiple locations throughout the city. Click here for menu and here for reviews.
Address | 2730 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104
Website | https://www.breakfastrepublic.com/
Communal Coffee
THE CUTEST coffee shop featuring breakfast pastries & lunch items, plus an in store boutique florist and more! We had breakfast here twice, I could have totally eaten here again! You must try their latte and toast samplers, my favorite was the vanilla rose latte! For those with dietary restrictions, they offer gluten free and vegan options.
Address | 2335 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
Website | http://www.communalcoffee.com/
Altitude Sky Lounge (rooftop bar) – After dinner in the Gaslamp Quarter, we headed to Altitude on the 22nd floor of the Marriott for drinks.
Address | Marriott San Diego Gaslamp Quarter 660 K St San Diego, CA 92101
Website | https://altitudeskylounge.com/
Puesto – Has garnered national acclaim for its Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos, utilizing ingredients sourced from in and around California, all served on handmade non-GMO, organic, maíz azul stone-ground tortillas. The menu is a celebration of fundamental Mexican flavors and an homage to the cosmopolitan palate of Mexico City.
Address | 789 W Harbor Dr Suite 155, San Diego, CA 92101
Website | https://www.eatpuesto.com/
Cody’s La Jolla – Serving breakfast and lunch all day. Find delicious french toast, crab Benedicts, fish tacos, fish and chips and even lobster roll to pair with various wines, beers, spritzers, and mimosas.
Address | 1025 Prospect St La Jolla, CA 92037
Website | https://www.codyslj.com/
Brockton Villa – This La Jolla Cove restaurant has the best view of it. The historic cottage serves breakfast through dinner and is particularly famous for brioche french toast.
Address | 1235 Coast Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Website | https://www.brocktonvilla.com/
Visit 5th and sky rooftop bar – Surrounded by stunning views of downtown San Diego and the Coronado Bridge. Check out this rooftop before dinner.
Address | 701 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Website | https://theatrebox.com/5th-sky/
Civico 1845 – menu is a homage to our southern Italian roots and reflects what’s being served in Italy today.
Address | 1845 India Street San Diego, California 92101
Website | https://www.civico1845.com/
Barbusa – Offers authentic Modern Sicilian Cuisine with a flare. From artisan pizzas, handmade pasta and seafood-centric dishes to handcrafted Italian cocktails and Southern Italian wines, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Address | 1917 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Website | https://www.barbusa.com/
Cloak and Petal – Japanese Restaurant with amazing ambiance and cocktails. Sushi is on point! Happy Hour Daily 4-6 pm!
Address | 1953 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Website | https://cloakandpetal.com/
Buona Forchetta – Buona Forchetta easily gets one of the best restaurants in San Diego because they make the best pizza in all of town. Buona Forchetta is located in Liberty City Station and a great area to explore before heading to the airport being that it is only 5 minutes away. You can easily eat here before heading into the airport and trust me the food at Buona Forchetta beats anything you will find inside the airport!
Address | 3001 Beech St, San Diego, CA 92102
Website | http://buonaforchettasd.com/
Well, that concludes my 10 day Southern California Road trip! I hope this guide helps you plan your visit to Southern California.
Have you already visited some of the cities on my itinerary? Would love to hear your suggestions! Please comment below!
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