21 BEST Day Trips from San Diego You’ll LOVE To Take In 2026
Last updated on October 1, 2026
Looking for the best day trips from San Diego that are fun and family-friendly, too? You’re in the right place.
San Diego is an amazing city – not just for all the fun things you can do here, but also for its proximity to so many other fantastic destinations. This travel guide details 21 places you can easily visit on a day trip from San Diego.
I’ve lived in Southern California for more than 20 years, and exploring the areas surrounding San Diego is one of the best things about calling this city home.
Whether you live nearby or are visiting America’s Finest City on vacation, you’ll definitely want to check out some of these day trips from San Diego.
Family-Friendly Day Trips from San Diego
From coastal towns overlooking the Pacific Ocean to world-famous amusement parks, you’ll find plenty of adventures that the whole family can enjoy just a short drive away.
Note: The Mexican border is very close to San Diego, but for the purpose of this article, we’re focusing on family-friendly destinations within the state of California.
To help make planning easy, I have divided this list into three sections by region. Here are the 21 best day trips from San Diego, all within a two-hour drive.
San Diego County
These cool things to do near San Diego are all within an hour of downtown; some might not even call them San Diego day trips because they are technically still located in San Diego County!
However, if you want to enjoy an awesome adventure without too much travel time, these are great options for day trips from San Diego and I wanted to include them on this list!
1. Coronado Island
Distance from San Diego: 6 miles
Just across the bay from downtown San Diego, Coronado Island is known for its pristine beaches and historic Hotel del Coronado. Spend the day strolling along the wide sandy beach, riding bikes on the island, or dining at one of the many waterfront restaurants. You can rent bikes or take a bike tour on Coronado Island.
If you don’t have a car (or don’t want to worry about parking!) you can hop on the ferry downtown for a quick ride to Coronado Island on the Coronado Ferry
The scenic ride takes 15 minutes and runs every hour. Best of all, the cost is only $8 each way. Children age three and under ride free.
► For help planning your visit, be sure to check out these 17 fun things to do on Coronado Island with kids.
2. Julian
Distance from San Diego: 60 miles
Nestled in the Cuyamaca Mountains, Julian is a charming historic town known for its apple orchards and delicious apple pie. Take a leisurely walk through the town, visit one of its many bakeries, and enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains.
If you are visiting San Diego in fall, Julian is the perfect place to go for a day trip. During this time of year, Julian is a popular destination for apple picking and enjoying the crisp autumn air. You’ll almost forget you’re in Southern California.
No matter what time of year you visit, make sure you don’t leave without popping into Julian Pie Company on Main Street for a sweet treat to take back with you.
3. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Distance from San Diego: 75 miles
As California’s largest state park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is a haven for desert enthusiasts and hikers. There are more than 600,000 acres to explore and miles of horseback riding and hiking trails that lead to stunning desert vistas, ancient palm groves, and wildflower blooms. The park is also famous for its metal sculptures that dot the desert landscape.
Borrego Springs is the gateway to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and is famous for its dark night skies, making it a great destination for stargazing. During the day, explore the town’s unique art installations or head into the desert.
4. Del Mar
Distance from San Diego: 20 miles
Del Mar is a charming beach town known for its upscale feel and beautiful coastline. Spend your day at Del Mar Beach, explore the shops and cafes in the village, or visit the famous Del Mar Racetrack during the summer season for horse racing events.
Known as the town “where the turf meets the surf” (courtesy of the lyrics of a Bing Crosby song), there are many great things to do in Del Mar with kids.
Some of my favorites include visiting the Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary and hiking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. And of course, Del Mar has some of the best beaches!
5. La Jolla
Distance from San Diego: 12 miles
Just a short drive from downtown San Diego, La Jolla offers stunning coastline views, upscale dining, and the chance to spot seals and sea lions at La Jolla Cove.
You can also explore the famous La Jolla Sea Caves by kayak or snorkel in the protected waters of the Underwater Park.
6. Carlsbad
Distance from San Diego: 35 miles
Carlsbad is home to beautiful beaches, the famous Carlsbad Flower Fields, and LEGOLAND California. You can spend the day lounging on the beach, exploring the quaint downtown area, or visiting the vibrant Carlsbad Village filled with shops and restaurants.
If you’re with kids, LEGOLAND is a must-visit for family-friendly fun. Located north of San Diego in Carlsbad, LEGOLAND offers more than 60 interactive play areas, shows, and kid-friendly rides.
When my son was younger we visited often. The park’s emphasis on creativity and learning through play makes it an ideal destination for families with younger kids. Not only can they build things with LEGO bricks themselves, but they will love wandering through Miniland USA, which features more than 30 million LEGO bricks in its fascinating displays.
7. Oceanside
Distance from San Diego: 40 miles
Oceanside is a laid-back coastal city with wide sandy beaches, a historic wooden pier, and a charming harbor. You can surf, take a harbor cruise, or visit the California Surf Museum.
The downtown area is growing with a vibrant food and craft beer scene, making Oceanside a great spot for a day of beach relaxation and dining.
Orange County
Located directly north of San Diego County, there are many fun things to do Orange County with kids. It is not only home to two of the country’s most iconic theme parks, the OC boasts 42 miles of scenic coastline and some of the most beautiful beaches in the state.
8. Laguna Beach
Distance from San Diego: 75 miles
This charming seaside town is known for its gorgeous beaches, art galleries, and scenic hiking trails. Spend your day relaxing at the beach, wandering through the shops and galleries, or exploring the picturesque Heisler Park.
Laguna Beach is also famous for its tide pools and the stunning Pacific Coast Highway views. There are plenty of great things to do in Laguna Beach with kids, both on the coast and in the surrounding hills.
► Check out these 15 Fun Things to Do in Laguna Beach to help plan your visit!
9. Mission San Juan Capistrano
Distance from San Diego: 65 miles
Known as the “Jewel of the Missions,” Mission San Juan Capistrano is a historic landmark that dates back to 1776.
Explore the beautiful gardens, fountains, and centuries-old architecture. It’s a peaceful and educational destination, great for history lovers.
10. The Disneyland Resort
Distance from San Diego: 95 miles
I consider myself a Disneyland expert as much as a San Diego expert, and it is hard to recommend Disneyland as a day trip when there is way too much to do there to squeeze into one day.
However – I understand that sometimes a day is all you have, and if you are visiting Southern California, a day at Disneyland is a must-do (and often a bucket list) attraction. It is consistently a favorite day trip for families visiting Southern California, even if it’s not the focus of your trip.
► Considering a visit to Disneyland? Start with this Disneyland Resort Vacation Planning Guide for tickets, rides, and lots of tips.
Disneyland is perfect for families, couples, and Disney fans of all ages. At the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, you can explore Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park and Downtown Disney. The parks are filled with thrilling rides, favorite Disney characters, and plenty of parades and entertainment.
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11. Knotts Berry Farm
Distance from San Diego: 95 miles
Another great theme park in Orange County worthy of a day trip from San Diego is Knotts Berry Farm.
What began as a fun little ghost town in the 1940s to entertain guests waiting for tables at Mrs. Knott’s chicken dinner restaurant, has morphed over the years into a fun theme park. Knotts Berry Farm, Southern California’s oldest theme park, is an iconic destination in Southern California.
Today, Knott’s offers a perfect mix of old-school attractions like the Timber Mountain Log Ride and Calico Mine Ride alongside some of the most thrilling roller coasters on the West Coast.
They also have many fantastic shows throughout the year, especially during the holiday season. If you visit Orange County at Christmas, be sure to put Knott’s Berry Farm on your itinerary. Surprisingly, their live entertainment options in recent years far exceed even Disneyland!
► For help planning your visit, check out this Guide to Knott’s Berry Farm for rides and more.
Los Angeles County
12. Los Angeles
Distance from San Diego: 120 miles
L.A. is not only the largest city in California, it is the largest city on the west coast! Therefore, it is not surprising to hear there are many, many cool things to do on a day trip.
Truthfully, I try not to visit L.A. just for the day. With traffic, the roun]d-trip driving is rough. But, if you’re coming from across the country and have never been, I would say go for it, if you don’t mind a very long and full day. If you can spend the night, it’s better!
Famous for Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory, Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and so much more, there are endless things to do in L.A. with kids.
One of our favorite L.A. activities is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. More than a tour, a visit to Warner Bros. Studio will give you the chance to go behind the scenes of an active, working film studio. You’ll get a close-up look at some iconic TV sound stages, movie sets, costumes, and props, and more.
13. Catalina Island
Distance from San Diego: 90 miles (to Long Beach, followed by a ferry ride)
A day trip to Catalina Island is like stepping into a tropical paradise. Located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California, this island offers crystal-clear waters, quaint coastal villages, and a variety of outdoor activities. There is more than enough to keep you busy for an entire day.
Catch the ferry from Long Beach and spend the day kayaking, snorkeling, or exploring the charming town of Avalon. For a more adventurous experience, take a zip line tour or hike the scenic trails. Catalina’s relaxed pace and beautiful scenery make it an unforgettable island escape.
14. Long Beach
Distance from San Diego: 95 miles
Long Beach is a vibrant coastal city that offers a mix of cultural attractions, waterfront dining, and outdoor activities. Explore the Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner turned hotel and museum, or visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, home to thousands of marine species.
You can also stroll along the waterfront at Shoreline Village, take a harbor cruise or guided whale watching tour, or explore the eclectic shops and art galleries of the Arts District. Long Beach’s bustling waterfront and urban charm make it a fun and varied day trip.
► Don’t miss our complete guide to the best things to do in Long Beach with kids!
15. Universal Studios Hollywood
Distance from San Diego: 100 miles
The L.A. area is home to some of the best theme parks in Southern California, and Universal Studios Hollywood is high on that list!
If you’re a fan of movies and theme parks, Universal Studios Hollywood is an exciting day trip. The park offers thrilling rides, studio tours, and immersive experiences based on popular films and TV shows. Explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, take the famous Studio Tour to see real movie sets, or enjoy action-packed shows and attractions.
If you’re in the Los Angeles area, you’ll also want to check out these best things to do near Universal Studios Hollywood.
With its blend of thrill rides, live entertainment, and behind-the-scenes Hollywood magic, Universal Studios is a great destination for families and film buffs alike.
Inland Southern California
16. Temecula
Distance from San Diego: 60 miles
Located just about an hour north east of San Diego, Temecula is a popular day-trip destination for wine lovers and those seeking a taste of California’s countryside. The region is renowned for its picturesque vineyards, rolling hills, and over 40 wineries offering wine tasting rooms and tours.
Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Temecula’s wine country, indulge in gourmet dining at a winery restaurant, or take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful landscape.
For a change of pace, visit Old Town Temecula, where historic buildings, antique shops, and local boutiques add charm to this delightful small town. Pennypickle’s Workshop is a fun kids museum you should definitely visit if traveling with little ones.
17. Joshua Tree National Park
Distance from San Diego: 100 miles
A visit to Joshua Tree National Park is a long but doable day trip from San Diego, and the beautiful sights you’ll get to experience are worth the drive!
A day trip to Joshua Tree will take you into a surreal desert landscape full of dazzling rock formations and iconic Joshua trees. You can hike through the park’s vast trails, explore boulder-strewn desert plains, or simply soak in the tranquil beauty. If you are visiting Joshua Tree with kids, you’ll find plenty of easy hikes around the park, and lots to learn at the park’s Visitors Centers.
While getting there from San Diego will take a few hours, the peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it well worth the trip. Joshua Tree is easily one of (if not *the*) best national parks near San Diego, and a wonderful excursion, especially if you have a family of nature lovers!
► If you are planning to visit Joshua Tree National Park, make time for a quick detour to nearby Pioneertown – an Old Western movie set you can explore and enjoy.
18. Death Valley National Park
Distance from San Diego: 280 miles
Death Valley National Park is another long but unforgettable day trip – best for older kids or teens. It is one of the most unique and dramatic landscapes in the United States, and while it’s definitely a very long day trip from San Diego, it can be done if you start early and plan carefully.
Known as the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in North America, Death Valley offers jaw-dropping scenery that feels like another planet. Highlights include Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), the colorful hills of Artist’s Palette, the vast salt flats, and the sweeping views from Dante’s View.
If you’re visiting Death Valley with kids, stick to short walks and scenic overlooks rather than long hikes – especially during warmer months. Winter and early spring are the best times to visit, when temperatures are cooler and the desert is more comfortable to explore.
Top Tip: Fill up on gas before entering the park, bring plenty of water and snacks, and check weather conditions carefully. Summer temperatures can be dangerously high!
19. Palm Springs
Distance from San Diego: 85 miles
Palm Springs is an ideal day trip if you’re looking for a blend of desert scenery, luxury shopping, modernist architecture, and unique attractions. Downtown Palm Springs has some great restaurants and museums to check out, as well.
But my #1 recommendation if you are visiting Palm Springs with kids is the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
This scenic ride up the mountain will treat you to incredible views of the surrounding desert and mountains, and once you’re there you can hike or even play in the snow if it’s wintertime.
► Don’t miss our complete guide to the best family-friendly things to do in Palm Springs!
20. Lake Arrowhead
Distance from San Diego: 100 miles
Another mountain town you can visit on a day trip from San Diego. Lake Arrowhead is nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, a serene mountain escape just two hours from San Diego.
Known for its alpine scenery and tranquil waters, the lake is perfect for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on the shore.
You can explore the charming Lake Arrowhead Village with its unique shops and restaurants, or take a scenic hike through the surrounding forest trails. During the winter months, the area offers snow sports like sledding and skiing. Lake Arrowhead provides a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of city life.
21. Idyllwild
Distance from San Diego: 95 miles
Located in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is an easy day trip from San Diego. This peaceful mountain town is known for its art galleries, rustic cabins, and excellent hiking trails. It’s a great place to visit for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.
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Can you do a day trip to L.A. from San Diego?
A day trip from San Diego to L.A. is doable, but as with Joshua Tree, the drive will take two or more hours each way, depending on traffic. You’ll have time to see a few major attractions, but it’s best to prioritize must-see spots due to the travel time involved.
Can you visit Mexico on a day trip?
San Diego is right across the border from Mexico, so it is very easy to visit on a day trip! You can even take the trolley there. However, whether you are interested in seeing the vibrant town of Tijuana or checking out the wineries in Valle de Guadalupe (about an hour and a half south of the border), I recommend only heading to Mexico if you are not traveling without kids. And don’t forget to bring your passport!
How many days is enough to see San Diego?
Three days is generally enough to experience San Diego’s main attractions, including its many beaches, Balboa Park, Seaport Village San Diego, and historic areas like Old Town and the Gaslamp Quarter.
Additional days would allow for deeper exploration, sightseeing tours, and visits to area attractions like SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo. So if that is your goal, plan for a few extra days. And of course, you’ll want to account for any day trips from San Diego when planning your visit.
Is Joshua Tree a day trip from San Diego?
Yes, a day trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park is possible, but it will be a two and a half hour drive each way. Keep in mind too that once you get there, you’ll still be in the car driving around to different areas of the park.
Squeezing Joshua Tree into a day trip means you’ll have limited time to explore the park, so if you want to take long hikes and see more iconic spots, an overnight stay is ideal. However, if you really want to see the park and only have a day to spare, it can absolutely be done! Just do your research beforehand and choose which areas you want to see the most!
Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips from San Diego
San Diego is easily one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and with so many great things to do in San Diego with kids, you may wonder why you’d ever want to leave. But it is so worth your time to explore more.
These 21 best day trips from San Diego offer a diverse range of experiences, whether you’re looking for beach relaxation, outdoor adventure, or a thrilling theme park experience. Whether you’re visiting with toddlers, teens, or planning an adults-only getaway, there’s a San Diego day trip that fits your travel style, time, and energy level.
Save These San Diego Day Trip Ideas for Later!
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