5 Family-Friendly Day Trips From San Diego
San Diegans are spoiled — with a coastline of beaches on one side and mountains on the other, day trip possibilities are endless in America’s Finest City. Saunter past the border for an international adventure, or venture inland to wine country, San Diego has something for everyone and every mood.
We’ve rounded up five of our go-to day trips from San Diego that will satisfy your wanderlust spirit, while keeping you close to home.
Temecula
Temecula is Southern California’s very own wine country, filled with sunshine, history, and idyllic views. With over 50 wineries sprinkled throughout the lush rolling hills, meander through vineyards by foot or charter a guided winery tour. Taste the experience that is Temecula through the region’s award winning wines (Wilson Creek's Sparkling Almond Wine is like sipping stars) or visit The Restaurant at Ponte for their seasonal and locally sourced cuisine. Looking to fancy it up? Pop by the luxe South Coast Winery Resort and Spa for 63 acres of villas, wine tours, and star gazing. Bonus tip: For lush, green vineyards, spring and summer are considered the best time to visit Temecula as you can see the grapes in full harvest mode.
Laguna Beach
Known for its art and beautiful scenery, Laguna Beach is a quaint beach village with over 30 coves and art galleries galore. The views are breathtaking and the energy is serene and refined. Find your own personal beach (Fisherman’s Cove is a fave) or set up at the famous lifeguard tower on Main Beach for the quintessential Laguna sunset photo. A very pup friendly town, on-leash dogs are welcome on the beach most of the year (with the exception of the summer months). After a day on the beach, pop in for a drink at the historic and newly renovated Hotel Laguna. It has a European vibe and ocean views that are unparalleled. Planning to stay the night? Try the Montage for luxe vibes or Casa Laguna for a more boutique feel.
Disneyland
A destination favorite for kids and inner kids alike, head to Anaheim for a magical family weekend adventure at Disneyland. Visit the Magic Kingdom, spin in a mad teacup, or head to California Adventure for even more rides. For an extra magical adventure, stay the night at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, loved for its Polynesian-inspired decor and waterslides. For dinner venture to Downtown Disney for a musical experience at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, and afterwards stop for a sweet treat at Ghirardelli's Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop.
Valle De Guadalupe
In just a two-hour drive from San Diego, find yourself in the heart of the Valle de Guadalupe wine-growing region of Mexico. Although this region in Baja California has been enticing food and wine lovers for years, a recent influx of innovative chefs and wine producers has put the area firmly on the map for foodies. Guests enjoy the scenic vineyard views as they walk the various wineries, sipping wine, listening to live music, and popping into one of the 5-Star restaurants like the famous Finca Altozano.
Julian
Pack up the family for the hour drive inland to the picturesque town of Julian, a town of history, nature, and creative spirit. Nestled within the Cuyamaca Mountains, the ride alone is an essential part of the Julian experience. (As you wind up the mountain trail, open the window to breathe in the fresh pine.) Make a pit stop at Julian Cider to try one of their 12 locally made ciders on tap and window shop through all the quirky antique shops that line Main Street. No trip to Julian is complete without a warm, juicy homemade pie from Mom’s (we recommend the Apple Crumb Pie or Boysenberry, but it’s fair to say all are made equally dreamy).