should i visit san diego or los angeles

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for California Los Angeles vs. San Diego for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Music

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Los Angeles or San Diego?
• Which is Cheaper, Los Angeles or San Diego? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Los Angeles or San Diego?

• When to Visit Los Angeles or San Diego?

Should you visit Los Angeles or San Diego?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Los Angeles and San Diego. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a multicultural, sprawling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. As this is a very quaint destination, you'll find it has a special atmosphere. It's also popular because of the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Los Angeles and San Diego: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Numerous theater shows
• Popular for food and cuisine
• Active nightlife
• Good music scene
• Good scuba and snorkeling destination
• Popular beach
• Good for hiking
• Fun shopping
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Big city activities
• Home to Hollywood
• Less popular for food
• Less popular for shopping

Is there more to do in Los Angeles or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Los Angeles than San Diego, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Los Angeles is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, resorts, hiking, shopping, and big city activities, while San Diego is known for its impressive beauty and quaint atmosphere. Los Angeles is popular for is many A-list celebrities, its world-famous clubs and venues, its glamourous beaches, and being the location of the iconic Hollywood. It is also home to Hollywood. San Diego is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools.

How is Los Angeles different from San Diego?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between San Diego and Los Angeles. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Los Angeles or San Diego?

Los Angeles is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Los Angeles are world-renowned. The city has an eclectic list of monuments and museums. Notable landmarks include the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, and the Petersen Automotive Museum.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Theater?

Los Angeles is great for its theatre productions. However, San Diego is not a theatre destination.

Los Angeles offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. While most people think of Hollywood when they think of LA, the city also has a thriving stage presence. Musicals and plays are popular throughout the city.

San Diego is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Los Angeles or San Diego? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Los Angeles is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Eat your way through Los Angeles , as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As a huge and diverse city, there is no shortage of amazing food options around town. There are a wide range of cuisines represented and many different neighborhoods that specialize in specific types of food. Popular dishes around town include Cobb Salads, Mexican Tacos, and the French Dip Sandwich.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the San Diego area. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

Los Angeles is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its evening party scene.

Los Angeles is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city's nightlife scene is as diverse as the city itself. There are glamorous clubs where you might spot a celebrity, as well as local dives with a more down-to-earth vibe. Some of the most famous clubs in the city include Academy, Avalon, and Boardner's.

San Diego has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Music?

Los Angeles is renowned for its live music scene. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its music scene.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Los Angeles . Music, movies, and show business - it's all part of what Los Angeles is known for. Several famous music venues include The Greek Theatre, Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in San Diego. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Los Angeles is great for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

There are plenty of resorts in Los Angeles to choose from. The city is home to a number of high end resorts including The Beverly Hill Hotel, The Langham Huntington Pasadena, and The Ritz-Carlton.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Los Angeles and San Diego.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Los Angeles. The coastal setting means that there are a number of places where you can put on a mask and hop in the water. Popular snorkeling or diving spots near the city include Santa Catalina Island, Diver's Cove, and Crystal Cove State Park. Many visitors find the water to be a bit chili, but the wildlife is unique and beautiful.

San Diego has a few good snorkeling spots. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Beaches?

Los Angeles and San Diego both offer terrific beaches.

Los Angeles offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Ranging from beaches with stunning natural beauty to those with glamourous and fun atmospheres, this city has a number of beaches to choose from. There are many fun and high-energy urban beach settings, and there are also beaches that are lined with parks and offer a more natural environment. Some of the most popular are Santa Monica, Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Redondo Beach.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in San Diego. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Hiking?

Los Angeles is renowned for hiking. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for the nearby hiking options.

Los Angeles is well-known for its hiking and trekking. In and around the city you'll find world class urban hiking with views of the mountains and the ocean. Some of the most well-known hikes include the Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood, Runyon Canyon, and the Sara Wan Trailhead at Corral Canyon.

San Diego is a popular spot for hiking. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Is the Shopping Better in Los Angeles or San Diego?

Los Angeles is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Los Angeles draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's most famous for the high end shopping at Rodeo Drive, there are actually many different shopping venues throughout the city. Other famous shopping areas include Robertson Blvd and the Grove.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Families?

Both Los Angeles and San Diego are terrific family-friendly destinations.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Los Angeles is very family-friendly. With its many amusement parks, including nearby Disneyland, and its countless family-friendly parks and playgrounds, there is no shortage of things to do with kids around the city. Favorite activities include the amusement parks, exploring Venice Beach, a trip to the California Science Center, and taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, San Diego is a very family-friendly destination. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Couples?

Los Angeles and San Diego both terrific destinations for a couple.

Los Angeles is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. It is a large, sprawling city with tucked away romantic scenes that are perfect for a couple's getaway or a dream honeymoon. There are also trendy nightclubs, world-class restaurants, and high-energy beaches that make for iconic date activities.

San Diego makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Los Angeles is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Los Angeles . The city is a major travel destination for all types, and backpackers will find no shortage of hostels or budget friendly accommodation around town.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Students?

Both Los Angeles and San Diego are terrific destinations for students.

Los Angeles is a very popular place to visit for students. International students have long flocked to this for its major universities and diverse setting. Major universities in the area include UCLA, the University of Southern California, and the California Institute of Technology.

Many students frequent San Diego. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Los Angeles is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Los Angeles offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many of the public transit options are overlooked by visitors for a number of reasons, but options include the subway, light rail, and buses.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Los Angeles or San Diego a more walkable city?

Los Angeles and San Diego are good when it comes to walkability.

Los Angeles is a somewhat walkable city. The city is sprawling, but some of the neighborhoods are more walkable than others. Some of the more walkable neighborhoods include Hollywood, Koreatown, Downtown, and MacArthur Park.

San Diego is somewhat walkable. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

For even more information, also check out Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? and Is San Diego Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Los Angeles?

How long in los angeles or san diego.

In either Los Angeles or San Diego, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Los Angeles than San Diego because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Los Angeles, and 3-5 days is enough time in San Diego.

Families should spend more time in Los Angeles than San Diego. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Los Angeles, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Los Angeles than San Diego. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Los Angeles that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Los Angeles than San Diego if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Los Angeles.

• How many days in Los Angeles or San Diego? Ideal Length of Stay Los Angeles 5-7   San Diego   3-5

One day in Los Angeles or San Diego?

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the dynamic coastal city of San Diego. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the beaches. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Los Angeles or San Diego?

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the hip destination of San Diego. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Los Angeles or San Diego?

People visit Los Angeles because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

Visitors enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the relaxed coastal city of San Diego. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Los Angeles or San Diego?

Los Angeles is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Los Angeles, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting San Diego. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles , The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America , The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America , and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America .

Which place is cheaper, San Diego or Los Angeles?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Los Angeles Prices USA Prices San Diego Prices USA Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Los Angeles $ 258 San Diego $ 202

The average daily cost (per person) in Los Angeles is $258, while the average daily cost in San Diego is $202. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Los Angeles and San Diego in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Los Angeles $ 140 San Diego $ 115
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Los Angeles $ 280 San Diego $ 230

Compare Hotels in Los Angeles and San Diego

Looking for a hotel in Los Angeles or San Diego? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Los Angeles

Hotels in San Diego

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Los Angeles $ 42 San Diego $ 24

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Los Angeles

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Los Angeles:

• Hotel Parking for a Day $ 22
• Taxi to Airport $ 55

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Los Angeles

Also for Los Angeles, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Private City Highlights Tour with Transfer: $999
• LA: City Highlights Private Guided Tour with Transfer: $999
• Los Angeles Airport (LAX): Private Transfer to Los Angeles: $774
• Private Transfers between LAX Airport and Los Angeles: $519
• Private Transfer from LAX to Anaheim / Buena Park / Garden Groove: $298
• Private Transfer from Los Angeles Airport (LAX) to Garden Groove: $298
• Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Airport LAX in Luxury Car: $272
• Departure Private Transfer: Los Angeles to Ontario Airport ONT in Luxury Van: $272
• Los Angeles Airport (LAX) to Desert Hot Springs Arrival Transfer: $251
• San Diego Private Transfer To or From Universal Studios/Burbank.: $248
• One-Way Private Transfers From/To Los Angeles Airport: $245
• Private Round-trip Airport Transfer: LAX International Airport to Anaheim Hotels: $240

Hired Cars and Shuttles in San Diego

Also for San Diego, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in San Diego HTL-APT(SAN): $47
• Transfer in private vehicle from San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego Downtown: $47
• Transfer in private minivan from San Diego Downtown to San Diego Airport (SAN): $68
• Transfer in private minivan from San Diego Airport (SAN) to San Diego Downtown: $68
• Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $110
• Tijuana to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) – Departure Private Transfer: $55
• Tijuana Intl Airport (TIJ) to Playas de Rosarito -Round-Trip Private Transfer: $243
• Tijuana Intl Airport (TIJ) to Playas de Rosarito - Arrival Private Transfer: $121
• Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) to Tijuana hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $55
• San Diego hotel/address to San Diego Airport (SAN) - Departure Private Transfer: $74
• San Diego International Airport (SAN) Private Arrival Transfer: $38
• San Diego Airport: One-Way Private Transfer to San Diego: $70

Is it cheaper to fly into Los Angeles or San Diego?

Prices for flights to both San Diego and Los Angeles change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Los Angeles $ 60 San Diego $ 45

Typical Food Prices in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Mexican Dinner (family of 4) $ 32
• Burritos for Two $ 15
• Coffee and Danish $ 7.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Venice Beach Food Tour with Tastings: $75
• 3-Hour Secret Food Tour: $89
• Venice Beach LA Food Tour: $89
• Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour: $89
• West Hollywood Food Tour: $89
• Downtown Food Tour: $89
• Venice Beach Food Tour: $89
• LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $99
• Night Cruise in Marina del Rey with Dinner: $124
• Vegan African Dinner Party in Playa Del Ray: $132
• Marina Del Rey: Thanksgiving Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136
• Marina Del Rey: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $136

Typical Food Prices in San Diego

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to San Diego:

• Mexican Lunch for Two $ 27
• Breakfast at Starbucks $ 20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Pizza and Gelato Tour in San Diego: $80
• Old Town Tequila and Tacos Walking Food Tour: $81
• Little Italy Food and Drink Walking Tour - Pizza, Pasta & Piazzas: $85
• San Diego Vegan Food Tour: $85
• Gaslamp Quarter Downtown San Diego Food Tour: $89
• Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour: $89
• San Diego, Seaport Village: Waterfront Walking Food Tour: $89
• San Diego Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $95
• Guided Secret Food Tour: $104
• Scenic Buffet Dinner Cruise: $108
• San Diego Dinner Cruise: $116
• Gourmet Dinner Cruise: $118

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Los Angeles $ 82 San Diego $ 48

Typical Entertainment Prices in Los Angeles

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Los Angeles's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Santa Monica Pier Rides (family of 4) $ 37
• Bowling $ 13
• Hollywood Tour for Two $ 30
• Six Flags for 2 $ 96

Tours and Activities in Los Angeles

For Los Angeles, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• 2-Hour Hollywood Bus Tour: $45
• 2-Hour Hollywood, West Hollywood and Beverly Hills Open Bus Tour: $39
• 2-Hour Shared Celebrities Home Tours in Hollywood: $42
• 2.5 Hour Fright Sights Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
• 2.5 Hour Private Tour of Hollywood and Beverly Hills: $219
• 20 Min Ferrari driving tour in Hollywood: $99
• 20 Min Lamborghini driving tour in Hollywood: $139
• 3 Hours Private Photoshoot and Self-Guided Tour in Los Angeles: $287
• 3-Hour Small Group Tour: Hollywood to Beverly Hills: $65
• 30 Minute Lamborghini Huracan Spyder Driving Tour in Hollywood: $189
• 50-Minutes Lamborghini Tour in Los Angeles: $239
• 60-minute Virtual Reality Escape Room Adventure: $45

Typical Entertainment Prices in San Diego

For San Diego, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• San Diego Zoo $ 15
• Sea World Parking $ 12

Tours and Activities in San Diego

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for San Diego.

• Maritime Museum of San Diego Admission Ticket: $24
• "Drink, Mingle, & Dance!" Club Tour (4 clubs included): $35
• 1 Hour GPS Guided Scooter Tour: Harbor/Gaslamp Quarter: $92
• 1-Hour Voodoo Escape Room Experience in San Diego: $35
• 1.5 Hour Walking Tour from La Jolla in San Diego: $59
• 1Hr GPS Self Guided Scooter Tour: Harbor/Gaslamp Quarter: $63
• 2 Hour GPS Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Balboa Park: $82
• 2Hr GPS Self Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Balboa Park: $82
• 2Hr GPS Self Guided Scooter Tour: Downtown & Old Town: $82
• 4 Hour Self-Guided Electric Bike Tour or Rental: $87
• A Seaside Stroll: La Jolla's Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
• All Day San Diego Scenic Tour: $125
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Los Angeles $ 15 San Diego $ 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Los Angeles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Los Angeles:

• LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $40
• Salsa Lesson, Burlesque and Mojitos : $149
• Salsa Lesson and Burlesque Show: $149
• Malibu: Vintage VW Sightseeing Tour and Wine Tasting: $195

Sample the Local Flavors in San Diego

Also in San Diego, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Gaslamp Bar Crawls and Events: $20
• San Diego Small-Group Gaslamp History Tour Pub Crawl: $30
• History Tour Pub Crawl of Famous Gaslamp Quarter: $30
• Brewery Tour with Tastings and Food Pairings: $85
• Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $119
• Vino! Vino! Little Italy Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $125
• Private Wine Tasting Tour in Valle de Guadalupe: $137
• Cruise & Booze Brewery tours : $149
• Baja Tour Guide wine tour: $169
• Sidecar Wine Tasting Tour: $199
• Brewery and Tap Room Sidecar Tour: $199
• California Sunset Brewery Tour: $199

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Los Angeles and San Diego, we can see that Los Angeles is more expensive. And not only is San Diego much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Diego would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Diego and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Los Angeles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Los Angeles than you might in San Diego.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Los Angeles Expensive? and Is San Diego Expensive? .

Los Angeles has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Diego. When comparing the sizes of Los Angeles and San Diego, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles or San Diego?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Los Angeles or San Diego in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Los Angeles and San Diego. The summer months attract visitors to Los Angeles because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In July, Los Angeles is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 72°F (22°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 71°F (22°C).

In July, Los Angeles usually receives less rain than San Diego. Los Angeles gets 0 inches (0 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Los Angeles 72°F (22°C)   San Diego   71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Los Angeles or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Los Angeles as well as San Diego. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene are the main draw to Los Angeles this time of year. Also, many travelers come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Los Angeles is around the same temperature as San Diego in the autumn. The daily temperature in Los Angeles averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

Los Angeles usually gets more rain in October than San Diego. Los Angeles gets 0.6 inches (15 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Los Angeles 64°F (18°C)   San Diego   68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Los Angeles or San Diego in the Winter?

Both San Diego and Los Angeles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Los Angeles for the museums, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to San Diego in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Los Angeles is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the winter temperatures in Los Angeles in January average around 55°F (13°C), and San Diego averages at about 57°F (14°C).

In January, Los Angeles usually receives more rain than San Diego. Los Angeles gets 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Los Angeles 55°F (13°C)   San Diego   57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Los Angeles or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Los Angeles during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Los Angeles in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Los Angeles is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Los Angeles average around 61°F (16°C), and San Diego fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

Los Angeles usually gets more rain in April than San Diego. Los Angeles gets 1 inches (25 mm) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Los Angeles 61°F (16°C)   San Diego   62°F (17°C)

Typical Weather for San Diego and Los Angeles

Related articles for los angeles, related articles for san diego.

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San Diego vs Los Angeles: Which City Should You Visit?

San Diego vs Los Angeles: two of the most popular destinations in Southern California. Both cities offer a unique blend of attractions, activities, and experiences that make them ideal vacation spots. However, choosing between the two can be challenging, especially for first-time visitors.

San Diego is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly attractions. The city has a diverse range of things to do, from exploring the world-famous San Diego Zoo to soaking up the sun at Coronado Beach. It was also named the most expensive place to live in the U.S., followed closely by Los Angeles.

On the other hand, Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis that’s home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Hollywood Sign and the Walk of Fame. The city is also a hub for entertainment, culture, and cuisine, making it a popular destination for travelers from around the globe.

Need a little more planning advice? Start with our San Diego Trip Planner , then be sure to check out these 26 fun things to do in the city, some easy hikes in San Diego , as well as which beaches are great for families. Then head out on a few days trips or see which national parks are nearby.

When planning a trip to Southern California , it’s essential to consider your preferences and interests to determine which city to visit. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an exciting urban adventure, both San Diego and Los Angeles have it going on, just in different ways.

In the following sections, we’ll compare the two cities based on different factors, such as attractions, transportation, and food, to help you make an informed decision about your next vacation.

Table of Contents

Travel Planning Guide

🚙💨  Where should I book my rental car?

Renting a car is one of the best ways to get around in California, no matter where you’re visiting. Public transportation can only get your so far, even in big cities. I always rent with  Discover Cars , which checks the prices of all major rental car companies, so you get the best rates.

🛌  What’s the best way to book my accommodations?

For hotels and vacation rentals,  Booking.com or Expedia.com  are the best sites, but you can also book through TripAdvisor. If you’re considering renting a house instead, don’t forget to also check  VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

🧳  What do I pack for California?

Head to the our California Packing List or Disneyland Packing List  to get all the info on packing.

✈️  What’s the best site to buy flights to California?

For finding cheap California flights from around the world, I recommend  Skyscanner . I’ve also had pretty good luck with Kayak.com .

Location and Accessibility

When it comes to location and accessibility, both San Diego and Los Angeles have their pros and cons. Here are some factors to consider:

Los Angeles has five major airports. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), is the biggest and has the most international flights, but there are four others: Long Beach Airport, Hollywood Burbank Airport, John Wayne Airport and Ontario International Airport.

LAX is one of the busiest airports in the world, with flights to and from destinations all over the globe. The others are smaller and less busy, but still offer a decent selection of flights, both international and domestic. For instance, if you’re flying in for Disneyland , you’ll have many flight options .

San Diego has two airports. San Diego International Airport, also known as Lindbergh Field, is just three miles from the central business district, making it one of the most convenient airports for visitors to any major U.S. city.

It’s smaller than LAX, but according to sandiego.com , pre-pandemic is was “one of the most heavily trafficked, ranking as the second busiest single-runway airport in the world with 24 million annual passengers.”

Palomar Airport, just outside of Carlsbad, operates several daily flights from LA on United Express/SkyWest. So if you can only find a flight into LA, you can hop a smaller flight down to San Diego quickly. This airport is also convenient for private or chartered flights.

» Looking for more help with your Los Angeles trip planning? Check out our full Los Angeles travel guide as well as this useful 2-day LA itinerary . Here’s where to find the best views !

Public Transportation

Both San Diego and Los Angeles have public transportation systems, but they differ in terms of quality and coverage.

Los Angeles has an extensive public transportation system, with a metro rail and light rail system serving 101 stations, as well as metro, municipal and DASH buses. However, the system can be confusing and difficult to navigate for visitors. It’s often easier and less frustrating to drive a car.

San Diego’s public transportation system is simpler and easier to use, with buses and trolleys covering most of the city. The trolley is popular with tourists because it connects major attractions, neighborhoods, and shopping areas that visitors frequent.

San Diego also has the Coaster, a commuter train that connects Downtown San Diego with coastal communities to the north, including Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, and Oceanside . It’s a scenic route and can be an enjoyable way to explore the coastline. And there’s the Sprinter Train, which is a light rail train that connects Oceanside to Escondido.

Los Angeles is notorious for its traffic. Rush hour can turn a short trip into a long and frustrating ordeal. We’ve often taken long road trips from Ventura in the north to San Diego in the south and had Los Angeles traffic add on over two hours to the journey during heavy periods.

You just have to be prepared for heavy traffic and plan accordingly. Peak traffic times in Los Angeles are typical of most large cities but can be more severe. Morning rush hour is generally from 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM, and evening rush hour is from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. During these times, the freeways and main roads can be extremely congested.

LA is crisscrossed by a network of freeways. The 405, 101, 10, and 5 are some of the major freeways that often experience heavy traffic. Accidents and construction can cause significant delays.

San Diego, on the other hand, has less traffic and is generally easier to get around. However, it still experiences congestion and peak traffic times, especially during tourist seasons.

Similar to other cities, San Diego has peak traffic times during weekdays. Morning rush hour is typically from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM, and evening rush hour is from 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM. During these hours, expect slowdowns on the freeways and major roads.

The main freeways in San Diego include the I-5, I-8, I-15, and SR-163. These can become congested during rush hours and on weekends. The I-5, which runs along the coast, can be particularly busy during summer weekends due to beach traffic.

In Los Angeles, finding parking in popular areas such as Hollywood, Downtown, and Santa Monica can be challenging and expensive. Be prepared to spend some time looking for a spot or consider using parking apps like ParkMe or SpotHero to reserve a space in advance.

For San Diego, parking in popular tourist areas like the Gaslamp Quarter, La Jolla, and beach neighborhoods can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons. Metered street parking and paid parking lots are available, but spaces can fill up quickly. It’s wise to arrive early or use parking apps to find and reserve a spot.

Affordability

When it comes to affordability, San Diego is generally less expensive than Los Angeles. However, both cities can be expensive in terms of lodging, dining, and entertainment. Visitors should budget accordingly and look for deals and discounts where possible.

Attractions and Activities

When it comes to attractions and activities, both San Diego and Los Angeles have plenty to offer, from theme parks to museums, beaches to parks, and unique neighborhoods.

Los Angeles is home to the world-famous Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood theme parks. Disneyland is a must-visit for families with kids, while Universal Studios Hollywood offers thrilling rides and movie-themed attractions. There’s also Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain.

San Diego also has popular theme parks, though maybe not quite as popular as LA. There’s SeaWorld and LEGOLAND California, which are perfect for families with young children. They also have Sesame Place.

Museums and Landmarks

Los Angeles is home to some of the most iconic landmarks and museums in the world. The Getty Center and Griffith Observatory are popular attractions that offer stunning views of the city, while the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier are must-visit landmarks. There are plenty of free museums in LA to check out as well.

San Diego’s Balboa Park is a cultural hub with over 15 museums, theaters, and gardens, including the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The USS Midway, located right in downtown San Diego, draws thousands of visitors a year, as does the San Diego Natural History Museum. See our list of amazing things to do in San Diego .

Beaches and Parks

San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, including La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and Ocean Beach. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and more.

Los Angeles also has its share of beaches, such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica Beach , which are popular among tourists and locals alike. Both cities have plenty of parks, such as Griffith Park in LA and Balboa Park in San Diego, which offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and more.

San Diego and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of hiking opportunities, from coastal trails to rugged mountain paths. Some popular hikes near San Diego include Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve , one of San Diego’s most scenic hiking destinations, and Cowles Mountain, located in Mission Trails Regional Park where you’ll have a 360-degree view of San Diego County.

I think Los Angeles wins this one just because of the incredibly popular Canyon Drive Trail to the Hollywood sign. The hike to the Griffith Observatory is popular and gives you panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.

The hike from Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Sign is about 6 miles round-trip. It’s not the easiest trail but it’s perfect for those looking for more of a challenge. It’s called the Mt. Hollywood Trail. There are so many more great hiking opportunities in Los Angeles that I can go into here.

Neighborhoods

San Diego’s Gaslamp District is known for its nightlife and dining scene. Little Italy is a lively neighborhood located just north of downtown San Diego. It’s known for its Italian heritage, and you’ll find plenty of Italian restaurants, cafes, and markets. There’s also La Jolla, which is an upscale coastal neighborhood with a stunning coastline and boutique shopping.

Obviously in Los Angeles, there’s Hollywood, famous for its movie studios and celebrity sightings. Venice Beach has a bohemian vibe and is known for its street performers and eclectic shops. Beverly Hills is a must-visit for luxury shopping and celebrity sightings.

Santa Monica is a beautiful coastal city with a relaxed vibe, popular for its beaches, shopping, and dining. Downtown LA has undergone a renaissance in recent years and is now a vibrant area with a mix of historic buildings, cultural institutions, sports venues, and a burgeoning food scene.

Food and Cuisine

Restaurants.

Both cities are home to a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from high-end establishments to casual eateries.

In Los Angeles, you’ll find everything from classic steakhouses to trendy vegan cafes, while San Diego is known for its fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine.

Some popular restaurants in Los Angeles include the upscale Italian eatery Bestia and the classic French bistro Republique. Located in Koreatown, Guelaguetza is an Oaxacan restaurant celebrated for its authentic moles and other traditional Mexican dishes. With locations in West Hollywood, Silver Lake, and Venice, Night + Market serves Thai street food in a vibrant and eclectic setting. A 2 Michelin star restaurant, n/naka is a high-end Japanese restaurant located in Palms, renowned for its kaiseki tasting menu.

In San Diego, be sure to check out the seafood-focused Ironside Fish & Oyster or the authentic Mexican cuisine at Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop . Located in La Jolla, George’s at the Cove is a multi-level dining destination that offers modern California cuisine. Juniper and Ivy are known for its innovative and modern American dishes created by renowned chef Richard Blais. With several locations around San Diego, Puesto is a popular spot for upscale Mexican street food. I

Food Trucks

Food trucks are a staple of the culinary scene in both San Diego and Los Angeles. These mobile eateries offer a wide range of cuisines and are a great way to try something new without breaking the bank.

In Los Angeles, popular food trucks include Kogi BBQ, which serves up Korean-Mexican fusion fare, and the Grilled Cheese Truck, which specializes in all things cheesy. In San Diego, be sure to check out Mariscos German , which offers delicious seafood tacos and ceviche, and the Super Q Food Truck , which serves up tasty barbecue.

Culinary Scene

Both San Diego and Los Angeles have thriving culinary scenes, with plenty of food festivals, farmer’s markets, and other events throughout the year. In Los Angeles, be sure to check out the LA Food Fest , which brings together some of the city’s best restaurants and food trucks for a weekend of eating and drinking. In San Diego, the annual San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival is a must-attend event for foodies.

Overall, whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining or street food, San Diego and Los Angeles both have plenty of options to choose from. So why not plan a food-focused trip to both cities and experience the best of what each has to offer?

Nightlife and Entertainment

When it comes to nightlife and entertainment, both San Diego and Los Angeles have a lot to offer. From live music venues to trendy bars and nightclubs, there’s something for everyone.

Music Venues

Los Angeles is known for its vibrant music scene, with legendary venues like The Troubadour and The Roxy Theatre hosting some of the biggest names in the industry. San Diego also has plenty of great music venues, including the House of Blues and the Belly Up Tavern .

Both cities have a wide variety of bars to choose from, ranging from dive bars to upscale lounges. In Los Angeles, you’ll find trendy spots like The Standard and The Edison , while San Diego has popular bars like Noble Experiment and the Altitude Sky Lounge .

When it comes to nightlife, San Diego has a more laid-back vibe compared to Los Angeles. The Gaslamp Quarter is the city’s main hub for entertainment, boasting a mix of trendy bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for stunning views and delicious cocktails.

In Los Angeles, the nightlife is more spread out, with different neighborhoods offering their own unique experiences. Hollywood is the place to be for clubbing and celebrity sightings, while Silver Lake and Los Feliz have a more hipster vibe.

Overall, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer plenty of options for those looking to have a good time. Whether you’re into live music, trendy bars, or clubbing, you’re sure to find something that suits your tastes.

Accommodation and Budget

When it comes to choosing between San Diego and Los Angeles, accommodation and budget are important factors to consider. Both cities offer a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly vacation rentals.

San Diego is known for its luxury resorts, such as the Hotel Del Coronado , which offers oceanfront rooms and a range of amenities, including multiple restaurants, a spa, and a fitness center. Los Angeles also has its fair share of luxury resorts, such as the Beverly Hills Hotel and the Ritz-Carlton in downtown LA.

For travelers on a budget, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer a range of affordable hotels. In San Diego, there are options such as the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina , which offers views of the marina and is located near popular attractions like SeaWorld and the San Diego Zoo. In Los Angeles, there are budget-friendly options such as the Hollywood Hotel , which is located in the heart of Hollywood and offers easy access to popular landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are a popular option for travelers who want more space and privacy. In San Diego, there are vacation rentals available in neighborhoods like Pacific Beach and La Jolla, which offer easy access to the beach and other attractions. In Los Angeles, vacation rentals are available in neighborhoods like Venice Beach and Santa Monica, which offer a laid-back vibe and easy access to the beach.

When it comes to budget, San Diego is generally considered to be more affordable than Los Angeles, especially when it comes to accommodation. However, it’s important to keep in mind that prices can vary depending on the time of year and the specific location. It’s always a good idea to compare prices and read reviews before making a decision.

Overall, whether you choose San Diego or Los Angeles, there are plenty of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly vacation rentals, both cities have something to offer for every type of traveler.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to visit San Diego or Los Angeles depends on your personal preferences and interests. Both cities have their unique charms and attractions that can cater to different types of travelers.

In conclusion, whether you choose to visit San Diego or Los Angeles, you’re sure to have a memorable trip. Consider your personal preferences and interests when making your decision, and do your research using useful websites and blogs to make the most of your knowledge in both fields.

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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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How To Pick Between Los Angeles and San Diego for a Vacation

Los Angeles and San Diego are two of the most iconic cities in Southern California. Both cities have a unique charm and offer visitors a wide range of attractions and experiences. Choosing between the two can be difficult, as each town has its own allure.  

What is Los Angeles Known For?

Los Angeles is the largest city in California, known for its glitz, glamour, and Hollywood fame. Visitors to Los Angeles can experience the movie industry up close, visit famous landmarks such as the Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame, and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

However, the city is also known for its traffic and overcrowding, which can be a turnoff for some visitors.

What Is San Diego Known For?

San Diego, on the other hand, is a smaller city with a more relaxed vibe. It offers visitors a beautiful coastline, numerous beaches, and a laid-back atmosphere. San Diego is also home to world-class attractions like the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld.

How Does The Population Differ?

Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the United States, with approximately 3.8 million people. The city is known for its diverse population, with people from around the world calling it home.

On the other hand, San Diego has a population of around 1.4 million people, making it the second-largest city in California after Los Angeles. San Diego is known for its laid-back lifestyle, friendly people, and perfect year-round weather.

They are Close To Each Other – Does The Geography Differ?

Los Angeles is located in Southern California, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north. The city covers an area of approximately 469 square miles. San Diego, on the other hand, is located in the southwestern part of California, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Laguna Mountains to the east. 

Is the Climate Different?

Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average temperature in Los Angeles ranges from 57°F in January to 73°F in August. San Diego also has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The average temperature in San Diego ranges from 50°F in January to 70°F in August.

Los Angeles’s Iconic Spots

The City of Angels is known for its glitz, glamour, and many iconic landmarks. Some of the top attractions in Los Angeles include:

• Hollywood Walk of Fame: This famous sidewalk features stars embedded with the names of famous actors, musicians, and other celebrities.
• Universal Studios Hollywood: A theme park and film studio that offers behind-the-scenes tours, rides, and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows.
• Griffith Observatory: A public observatory with stunning city and night sky views.
• Getty Center: A museum and art center with a vast collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
• Santa Monica Pier: A historic pier with an amusement park, aquarium, and restaurants.

San Diego’s Top Attractions

San Diego is known for its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and laid-back vibe. Some of the top attractions in San Diego include:

• San Diego Zoo: One of the world’s largest and most famous zoos, with over 3,500 animals representing more than 650 species.
• Balboa Park: A massive urban park with gardens, museums, theaters, and other cultural attractions.
• Seaworld San Diego: A marine mammal park and theme park with shows, rides, and exhibits featuring dolphins, whales, and other sea creatures.
• USS Midway Museum: A museum on the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS Midway offers a glimpse into naval aviation history.
• La Jolla Cove: A picturesque beach and cove with crystal-clear water and plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

LA and San Dieg0: Cost

Los Angeles is known for its high cost of living. Housing is costly, with the median home price hovering around $800,000. Renting is also pricey, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment at $2,500.

San Diego, on the other hand, is slightly more affordable. While still expensive, the median home price is around $600,000, and the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,200 per month.

Hotels will be about the same in both locations, with options at various price points. 

Quality of Life: Who is the Winner?

Regarding quality of life, San Diego is often considered the winner. The city has a laid-back vibe, with plenty of outdoor activities, parks, and beaches. The weather is also mild year-round, making it easy to enjoy the outdoors.

Los Angeles, on the other hand, can be more hectic and crowded. Traffic is notoriously bad, and the city can feel overwhelming at times. However, Los Angeles does offer more cultural experiences, with a thriving arts scene and plenty of museums and galleries to explore.

Culture: Los Angeles

Los Angeles has a thriving cultural scene as one of the largest cities in the United States. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, including the Getty Center, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The city is also home to several theaters, including the historic Pantages Theatre, which hosts Broadway shows.

Los Angeles is known for its film industry, and visitors can tour some of the city’s famous movie studios, such as Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood. 

San Diego’s Culture

San Diego offers a more laid-back cultural experience than Los Angeles. The city has several museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Museum of Photographic Arts, and the USS Midway Museum. San Diego has a large military population, both active members and retired. 

San Diego is also known for its outdoor cultural experiences. The city hosts several festivals yearly, including the San Diego County Fair and the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival. Visitors can also explore Balboa Park, home to several museums and gardens.

Los Angeles: Food Scene

Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, and its food scene reflects that diversity. Visitors can find everything from street tacos to high-end sushi restaurants in LA. Some of the must-try dishes in LA include:

• In-N-Out Burger
• Mexican street food
• Vegan cuisine

San Diego’s Food

San Diego’s food scene is heavily influenced by its proximity to Mexico and does have a lot of overlap with nearby Los Angeles. Visitors can find some of the best Mexican food in the country in San Diego, including:

• Carne asada fries

San Diego is also known for its craft beer scene, with over 150 breweries. Visitors can take brewery tours and taste a variety of locally brewed beers.

Los Angeles: Outdoor Activities

In Los Angeles, visitors can hike the famous Hollywood Hills or explore Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The park features miles of hiking and biking trails, a golf course, tennis courts, and a planetarium. Visitors can also stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk or relax on the beaches of Santa Monica.

Los Angeles offers surfing lessons, paddleboarding, and kayaking tours for those looking for something more adventurous. Visitors can also take a whale-watching tour from the port of Long Beach.

San Diego: Outdoor Options

San Diego is known for its beautiful beaches, including La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach. Visitors can swim, surf, or sunbathe on the sand. San Diego also has several parks, including Balboa Park, which is home to the San Diego Zoo, as well as several museums and gardens.

For those looking for outdoor adventures, San Diego offers hiking trails in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Visitors can also go whale watching or take a kayak tour of the La Jolla Sea Caves.

Los Angeles: Mass Transportation

The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) provides public transportation services in the city, including buses, trains, and subways. The Metro Rail system is a popular way to get around the city, with six lines covering different parts of Los Angeles. Visitors can also use the Metro Bus system, which has over 200 routes throughout the city.

However, despite many options, it is challenging to get around the spread-out metro area using mass transportation. 

San Diego’s Options

San Diego’s public transportation system is operated by the Metropolitan Transit System (MTS), which provides buses and trolleys. The trolley system has three lines that cover different parts of the city, including Downtown San Diego, Mission Valley, and East County. The bus system has more than 90 routes throughout the city.

A smaller metro area and an extensive system make San Diego the winner. 

Can’t Decide? Why Not Do Both

If you can’t pick just one, they are close enough to do in one vacation. As a bonus, the road trip from Los Angeles to San Diego is a manageable 2-3 hours with tons of stunning places to stop along the way. 

Los Angeles Art Museums: 15 of The Best In and Around the City

Los Angeles is a large, spread-out metro with a wide array of activities for visitors. One of the best things about the city is its thriving art communities. Los Angeles art museums showcase contemporary works and pieces from grandmasters, so whatever style you prefer, there’s an art museum in Los Angeles and the surrounding area that has it.

National Parks In California: 9 Stunning Options to Explore on Your Next Vacation

When it comes to the best places to visit in California, its national parks are a great option. California is home to nine of the U.S.’s 63 National Parks, including some of the least visited ones for those looking to explore our country’s protected lands without the record-level crowds.

From the glacial depths of Kings Canyon to the sunny beaches of the Channel Islands, the National Parks in California offer some of the state’s most treasured natural beauty.

50 Things to Do in California to Explore America’s 3rd Largest State

California is an especially popular destination for people looking for adventure as it offers various landscapes, cities, and climates. The third largest state in America has 12 distinct regions, 147 national historic landmarks, 840 miles of diverse Pacific Ocean coastline, and a mind-boggling 1.6 million acres of National Parks. 

Between the exciting entertainment capital of the whole world to the tranquil forests of Lake Tahoe and its stunning National Parks, and everything in between, there truly is something for everyone in California. 

50 Things to Do in California

Alicia Richards is the founder of Travels With The Crew. This family travel site is loaded with itineraries, tips for traveling with kids, and travel inspiration. Alicia helps busy moms plan vacations that the entire family will love.

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• Los Angeles , San Diego

San Diego vs. Los Angeles

Table of Contents

Hey there, you must be planning your next getaway, and California is calling your name, right? Well, you’re in luck because we’re about to break down the highlights of San Diego and Los Angeles, making your decision a breeze. Keep reading to discover the wonders of these cities and find out which one will be your ultimate vacation destination!

History & Culture

So, let’s start by diving into the history and culture of San Diego and Los Angeles. These two cities have distinct vibes that set them apart, and knowing their historical and cultural background can help you make a choice.

San Diego, being one of the oldest cities in California, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 1700s. The city’s diverse cultural roots, including Native American, Spanish, and Mexican influences, have shaped its unique identity.

San Diego’s art scene is thriving, and its numerous museums and galleries showcase the city’s colorful past and contemporary flair. If you’re into history and an immersive cultural experience, you’ll definitely appreciate what San Diego has to offer.

On the other hand, Los Angeles, the city of angels, has a glitzy and glamorous reputation, thanks to its long-standing association with the entertainment industry. It’s the heart of the American film and television world, and its cultural offerings are strongly influenced by the world of showbiz.

However, LA’s history goes beyond Hollywood. The city has a melting pot of cultures, with neighborhoods that celebrate different ethnicities and traditions. Los Angeles is also home to several world-class museums and a thriving contemporary art scene.

In a nutshell, San Diego offers a more laid-back atmosphere with a strong historical presence, while Los Angeles is all about the glitz and glamour, celebrating its diverse cultures and artistic expressions. Keep this in mind as you decide which city to visit for a cultural escapade!

Attractions & Activities

Let’s talk about the attractions and activities you can enjoy in both San Diego and Los Angeles. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to know what sets these cities apart when it comes to having a blast during your visit.

In San Diego, the city’s biggest draw is its world-famous San Diego Zoo, where you can spend an entire day admiring the diverse wildlife. If you’re a history buff, Old Town San Diego offers a trip back in time, while Balboa Park, a sprawling urban cultural park, is home to several museums, gardens, and walking trails.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is the perfect place to go hiking and appreciate the breathtaking coastal views.

Meanwhile, Los Angeles has its fair share of iconic attractions. Take a stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame or visit the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre. The Griffith Observatory is a must-see for its stunning views of the city and the stars, while art lovers can’t miss The Getty Center, with its impressive art collection and architecture.

If you’re into thrills, Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic place to spend a day, with movie-themed rides and attractions that’ll leave you wanting more.

In terms of activities, San Diego has plenty of outdoor options, like hiking in the picturesque Anza-Borrego Desert State Park or cycling along the scenic Mission Bay. You can also go whale watching during migration season or take a harbor tour to explore the city’s maritime history.

Los Angeles, on the other hand, offers a mix of urban and outdoor experiences. Hike up to the Hollywood Sign or explore the stunning Malibu Creek State Park. You can also enjoy a day of wine tasting in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley or stroll through the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden.

In conclusion, San Diego’s attractions and activities tend to focus more on outdoor pursuits and cultural experiences, while Los Angeles has a mix of urban attractions and outdoor adventures. Think about what kind of experiences you’re looking for and pick the city that best suits your preferences!

Now let’s dive into the beach scene in San Diego and Los Angeles. Both cities are famous for their stunning coastlines, but there are a few key differences between their beaches that might sway your decision on where to soak up the sun.

San Diego is known for its laid-back vibe and picturesque beaches. La Jolla Cove is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering crystal-clear waters and a chance to snorkel with colorful marine life. For surfers, the legendary Swami’s Beach in Encinitas is a must-visit spot.

If you’re looking for a beach with a lively atmosphere, check out Mission Beach, where you can play beach volleyball, ride the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, or just relax on the sand.

On the other hand, Los Angeles boasts some iconic beaches, each with its own unique charm. Santa Monica Beach, with its famous pier and lively street performers, offers a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for people-watching.

For surf enthusiasts, Malibu’s Surfrider Beach is a popular choice, while Venice Beach is the go-to spot for a funky, eclectic vibe, complete with street performers, skateboarders, and artists.

In terms of beach amenities, both cities offer a range of options, from simple, secluded spots to bustling beaches with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. San Diego’s beaches tend to be more family-friendly and less crowded, while Los Angeles offers a mix of iconic and trendy beach experiences.

Ultimately, choosing between San Diego and Los Angeles for your beach vacation comes down to your personal preferences. If you’re looking for a more relaxed, laid-back beach experience, San Diego might be your best bet. However, if you’re after the quintessential Southern California beach vibe with a side of urban excitement, Los Angeles has you covered.

Eating, Drinking & Nightlife

When it comes to eating, drinking, and nightlife, both San Diego and Los Angeles have a lot to offer. Each city has its own unique food and drink scene, with diverse options for all tastes and budgets. So, let’s dive into the culinary delights and vibrant nightlife of these two iconic destinations.

San Diego is famous for its delicious Mexican cuisine, thanks to its close proximity to the border. You’ll find everything from mouthwatering street tacos to upscale dining experiences. Seafood lovers will also appreciate the fresh, locally sourced dishes available at waterfront restaurants. For craft beer enthusiasts, San Diego’s thriving brewery scene is not to be missed, with countless options to explore and enjoy.

As for nightlife, San Diego has a more laid-back vibe compared to Los Angeles. The Gaslamp Quarter is the city’s main hub for entertainment, boasting a mix of trendy bars, live music venues, and nightclubs. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for stunning views and delicious cocktails.

In Los Angeles, the dining scene is as diverse as the city itself. You can find everything from gourmet food trucks to Michelin-starred restaurants. The city is known for its fusion cuisine, with a variety of flavors and culinary traditions melding together in unique and innovative dishes. Don’t miss the chance to try some authentic Korean BBQ in Koreatown or indulge in delicious sushi in Little Tokyo.

When it comes to nightlife, Los Angeles is hard to beat. The city offers a wide range of options, from swanky rooftop bars to iconic clubs on the Sunset Strip. If you’re a fan of live music, there’s always a show happening somewhere in the city, with venues catering to every taste and genre.

Ultimately, deciding between San Diego and Los Angeles for your eating, drinking, and nightlife adventures will depend on your preferences. San Diego offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, while Los Angeles is all about glitz, glamour, and endless entertainment options.

Shopping enthusiasts, get ready to explore the fabulous retail scenes in both San Diego and Los Angeles. Each city has its own unique shopping districts and experiences to satisfy every style and budget. Let’s take a closer look at what these two destinations have in store for shopaholics.

San Diego’s shopping scene is a delightful mix of high-end boutiques, charming local shops, and bustling outdoor malls. If you’re looking for a more refined shopping experience, head to La Jolla, where you’ll find an array of upscale stores and designer boutiques.

For a more eclectic mix, explore the shops in neighborhoods like Little Italy and North Park, where you’ll find everything from vintage clothing to artisanal goods.

Outdoor shopping centers, such as Fashion Valley and Westfield UTC, offer a wide range of retailers, from luxury brands to popular high-street stores. Plus, you can enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather as you shop ’til you drop.

Los Angeles, on the other hand, is a shopper’s paradise, with a reputation for setting fashion trends and hosting some of the most famous shopping districts in the world. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is a must-visit for luxury shoppers, with designer boutiques lining the iconic street.

For more budget-friendly options, check out The Grove, an outdoor shopping center with a mix of high-street stores and trendy boutiques.

For a truly unique L.A. shopping experience, head to the Melrose Avenue shopping district, where you’ll find a mix of high-end retailers, vintage shops, and cutting-edge fashion boutiques. You never know what treasures you might discover!

In conclusion, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer fantastic shopping experiences, with options for every style and budget. Whether you’re seeking designer labels or unique, one-of-a-kind finds, you’re sure to be satisfied in either city.

Accommodation

When it comes to finding the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer a wide range of accommodation options. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly option, you’ll find something suitable in either city. Let’s see how these two destinations stack up when it comes to accommodation.

In San Diego, you’ll find a mix of cozy boutique hotels, luxurious resorts, and budget-friendly motels. The coastal neighborhoods, like La Jolla and Coronado, boast stunning hotels with ocean views, perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing vacation. If you’re on a budget, consider staying in areas like Downtown, Mission Valley, or near the airport, where you’ll find more affordable options.

Los Angeles, being a sprawling metropolis, has an extensive selection of accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs. For a taste of luxury, check out the iconic hotels in Beverly Hills or along the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. If you’re looking for more budget-friendly accommodations, consider staying in areas like Downtown L.A., Hollywood, or near LAX.

Ultimately, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer diverse accommodation options to suit any budget or preference. Whether you’re after a lavish resort or a wallet-friendly hotel, you’ll find plenty of choices in either city.

Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities

When planning a family vacation, it’s essential to consider the family-friendliness and available children’s activities at your destination. Both San Diego and Los Angeles cater to families and offer a plethora of activities that kids will love. Let’s dive into what each city has to offer for family fun.

San Diego is known for its laid-back atmosphere and family-friendly vibe. The city is home to a variety of attractions that cater to kids, such as the world-renowned San Diego Zoo, Legoland, and SeaWorld. If you’re seeking outdoor adventures, don’t miss the chance to explore Balboa Park or take the family on a relaxing beach day at spots like Mission Beach or La Jolla Shores.

On the other hand, Los Angeles boasts a myriad of family-friendly activities that cater to children of all ages. A visit to the iconic Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood is a must, promising endless fun and excitement for the entire family. For a more relaxed day, consider a trip to the Griffith Observatory or exploring the wonders of the California Science Center.

While both cities have plenty to offer families, San Diego’s more relaxed atmosphere and abundance of kid-friendly attractions make it a top choice for a stress-free family vacation. However, if your family is eager for the excitement of theme parks and the glitz of Hollywood, Los Angeles might be the better choice.

In conclusion, whether you choose San Diego or Los Angeles for your family vacation, you can’t go wrong with either destination. Both cities offer a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to families and ensure a memorable trip for all.

Getting There & Getting Around

Traveling to and around your destination can be a significant factor in planning a trip. So let’s break down the options for reaching and navigating San Diego and Los Angeles, as well as the transportation methods available in each city.

First up, San Diego. To get there, you’ll likely fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN), which is just 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) from downtown.

Once you’ve landed, getting around the city is a breeze. Public transportation options include buses and the trolley system, but renting a car is an excellent choice if you plan to visit attractions beyond downtown. Biking and walking are also popular ways to explore the city’s beautiful neighborhoods and coastline.

Now let’s talk about Los Angeles. You’ll probably arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is 18 miles (29 kilometers) from downtown LA.

When it comes to getting around, public transportation options like buses and the Metro rail system are available, but they might not be the most convenient choice. LA is a sprawling city, so renting a car is often the preferred method for exploring.

However, traffic can be notoriously heavy, so plan your schedule accordingly. Biking and walking are also great options in certain areas, like Santa Monica and Venice Beach.

So, which city is easier to navigate? San Diego’s compact layout and user-friendly transportation options make it a more manageable choice for travelers. However, if you don’t mind braving the infamous LA traffic and plan to rent a car, Los Angeles offers an array of attractions and experiences that are worth the drive.

Ultimately, choosing between San Diego and Los Angeles depends on your transportation preferences and the type of vacation you’re looking for. Whether you prefer the laid-back charm of San Diego or the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, both cities are well-equipped to accommodate your travel needs.

When planning a trip, the weather can play a crucial role in deciding between two destinations. Let’s take a look at the climate in both San Diego and Los Angeles, and see how they stack up against each other.

San Diego is known for its mild, pleasant weather. With an average temperature of 70°F (21°C) throughout the year, it’s hard to go wrong visiting this sunny SoCal city. Summer months are warm and sunny, with highs typically reaching around 76°F (24°C). Winter months are cooler but still comfortable, averaging 65°F (18°C) during the day.

Los Angeles, on the other hand, experiences a slightly warmer climate than San Diego. The city boasts an average annual temperature of 72°F (22°C), with summer temperatures climbing to around 84°F (29°C). Winter months in LA are mild, with daytime highs averaging 68°F (20°C). While both cities enjoy plenty of sunshine, LA does tend to have slightly hotter summers and warmer winters.

In terms of weather, both San Diego and Los Angeles offer a fantastic Southern California climate. However, if you prefer slightly cooler temperatures and a more laid-back vibe, San Diego might be the better option for you. But if you don’t mind a little extra heat and are eager to experience everything that bustling Los Angeles has to offer, you won’t be disappointed by its warm and sunny weather.

Feeling safe and secure while traveling is a top priority for most people. Let’s dive into the safety aspects of San Diego and Los Angeles, discussing not only crime rates but also other factors that contribute to a secure travel experience.

San Diego consistently ranks as one of the safest large cities in the United States. The city boasts a lower crime rate compared to the national average, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a safe and enjoyable trip.

In addition to low crime rates, San Diego’s well-maintained infrastructure and reliable public transportation system contribute to a sense of security for both residents and visitors.

Los Angeles, as a massive urban center, presents a more complex safety landscape. While some neighborhoods have higher crime rates, many popular tourist areas like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica are considered safe for visitors. The key to staying safe in Los Angeles is being aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.

The city has been investing in infrastructure and public transportation improvements, which also adds to the overall safety of tourists and residents alike.

Both cities take emergency preparedness seriously, with comprehensive plans in place for natural disasters like earthquakes and wildfires. San Diego and Los Angeles have strong emergency response systems, ensuring that help is available when needed.

When comparing the two cities, San Diego is generally considered safer overall. However, Los Angeles offers safe and enjoyable experiences in many popular tourist areas. No matter which city you choose, it’s essential to remain vigilant, practice common sense, and follow any local guidelines to ensure a secure and memorable trip.

Travel budgets are always a consideration when planning a trip. In this section, we’ll break down the costs of visiting San Diego and Los Angeles, making it easier for you to decide which destination aligns with your financial expectations.

San Diego, known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches, offers a range of accommodation options to fit various budgets. While it’s possible to find luxury hotels, there are also plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly choices.

Dining in San Diego can be reasonably priced, with many delicious eateries offering meals around $15 to $25 USD. When it comes to attractions, expect to pay about $30 to $50 USD for popular activities like visiting the San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld.

On the other hand, Los Angeles, the city of glitz and glamour, can be a bit more expensive. Accommodations vary widely, from upscale hotels to budget options, but prices tend to be slightly higher compared to San Diego.

Food-wise, Los Angeles offers a diverse culinary scene with meals ranging from $20 to $40 USD. Attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood or the Griffith Observatory can set you back around $40 to $60 USD.

In conclusion, San Diego and Los Angeles both provide a range of price points for accommodations, dining, and attractions. However, San Diego is generally more budget-friendly, while Los Angeles tends to lean towards the higher end of the spectrum.

Which Is Better – San Diego or Los Angeles?

In the battle of these two sunny Californian destinations, each city has its own unique charm and appeal. Weighing the pros and cons of San Diego versus Los Angeles, it’s clear that both cities offer a fantastic vacation experience. But, depending on your interests and preferences, one may be a better fit for you.

San Diego shines with its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and family-friendly activities. If you’re a history and culture buff, San Diego’s rich past and vibrant cultural scene make it an excellent choice.

It’s also a haven for beach lovers, as well as those who want to indulge in delicious food and drinks without breaking the bank. Plus, with a diverse range of accommodations and generally lower costs, San Diego is perfect for travelers on a budget or those seeking a more relaxed getaway.

On the other hand, Los Angeles dazzles with its world-famous attractions, bustling nightlife, and trendy shopping scene. For movie buffs and entertainment enthusiasts, the star-studded streets of LA are hard to resist.

With its array of beaches and a more extensive selection of attractions, activities, and dining options, Los Angeles is an ideal choice for those who crave variety and excitement. While it may be more expensive than San Diego, the glamour and glitz of LA are hard to beat.

When it comes to family-friendliness, both cities have plenty to offer. However, San Diego edges out with its wide array of kid-friendly attractions and activities, such as the renowned San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. Meanwhile, Los Angeles also boasts family favorites like Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland, but these tend to come with a heftier price tag.

In terms of getting around, both destinations have decent public transportation options, but having a car can be quite useful, especially for exploring areas outside the city centers. Whichever city you choose, you’re bound to enjoy the quintessential Southern California sunshine.

Ultimately, deciding between San Diego and Los Angeles comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If a more laid-back, beach-centric, and budget-friendly vacation is what you’re after, San Diego is your winner. But if you’re keen on immersing yourself in the world of entertainment, shopping, and nightlife, then Los Angeles is the way to go. Either way, you can’t go wrong with these two iconic Californian cities.

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Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider

Los Angeles is one of the most famous cities in the world, known for its sunny weather, Hollywood glamor, and diverse culture. However, like any destination, it has its upsides and downsides that visitors should consider before planning a trip. You may be wondering, is Los Angeles actually worth visiting?

In this blog, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Los Angele s to help you decide if it’s the right destination for your next vacation. From traffic and high costs of living to beautiful beaches and world-class attractions, we’ll cover all aspects of what it’s like to visit this iconic city.

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Is California Worth Visiting?

California is definitely worth visiting! I have lived in California my whole life and I continue to be amazed at the beauty here , I’m convinced this is one of the most incredible places to visit in the world.

The state is known for its diverse landscape , including stunning beaches, towering mountains, picturesque deserts, and dense forests. Some visitors crave the glamour and glitz of Hollywood, while others want to take in the vibrant city of San Francisco, or simply soak up the laid-back beach lifestyle in cities like Santa Barbara and San Diego .

California is also home to world-renowned national parks such as Yosemite and Joshua Tree, where you can hike, camp, and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery. The state is also a hub for foodies , offering an eclectic mix of cuisines influenced by its diverse population . No matter what your taste or travel style is, you will be able to find something incredible to explore in California!

Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?

Yes, I do think Los Angeles is worth visiting – for most people. This comes with a big caveat that I do NOT think it’s the best that California has to offer , and many people find it over-rated, expensive, and a bit of a letdown. However, it’s also a huge and important city in California with plenty to do, see, and discover if you know what to expect and how to best spend your time.

For most people, LA is a bucket list city that they would be sad to miss out on – so by all means, enjoy exploring the entertainment capital of the world and appreciate all that it has to offer! However if you only have a short time to experience California, or if you prefer nature over big cities , I would recommend visiting other parts of this lovely state.

It’s totally up to YOU, your tastes, your travel style, and how much time you have to explore California!

>>> READ MORE: The Best (And Worst) Times to Visit Los Angeles

Is Los Angeles Good for Tourists? For Foreigners?

Los Angeles can be a great destination for tourists, both domestic and foreign. While it’s a big and congested city that may be difficult to navigate, there are still plenty of attractions and activities that make it worth the trip. Public transportation may not be the best, but it’s still possible to get around by it, or tourists can rely on driving, taking tours , or using ride-sharing services like Uber.

Why Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? (PROs)

There are many reasons why Los Angeles IS worth visiting. First, it’s a city that has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to world-renowned museums, famous theme parks , and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood sign. The city is also known for its diverse and delicious food scene , with numerous options ranging from street vendors to Michelin-starred restaurants.

Additionally, LA is home to several cultural and historical attractions , such as the Getty Center and the California Science Center. Another great advantage of visiting LA is the fantastic weather that the city enjoys almost year-round.

Furthermore, visitors can experience the city’s vibrant and diverse nightlife , which includes bars, clubs, and live music venues . Lastly, Los Angeles is also a hub for the entertainment industry , which provides tourists with unique opportunities to see famous studios, attend live shows , and potentially spot a celebrity! All in all, Los Angeles has numerous advantages that make it a great destination to visit for tourists from all over the world.

Why Is Los Angeles NOT Worth Visiting (CONs)

While there are many reasons why Los Angeles is a great destination to visit, there are also some disadvantages that may make it NOT worth visiting for some travelers. First, the city can be very congested and traffic can be a major issue , especially during rush hour. The public transportation system is also not the best, which can make getting around the city challenging and time-consuming .

Additionally, Los Angeles can be an expensive destination , with high accommodation and food prices, as well as costly admission fees for many of the city’s top attractions. Visitors may also find that the city lacks a cohesive identity, with many different neighborhoods and areas that can feel disconnected from each other.

Lastly, some travelers may find that the city can be overwhelming due to its sheer size and the number of things to see and do. Overall, while Los Angeles has many great features, these drawbacks may make it not worth visiting for some tourists who prefer a more laid-back and affordable travel experience.

Things to Consider When Visiting Los Angeles for the First Time – 43 Pros & Cons

Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels, is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. As a first-time visitor, there are several things to consider before embarking on your trip to decide if this city is worth it for you to visit. Here are 43 pros and cons to help you plan your travel.

Pros to Visiting Los Angeles:

1. The Weather: Los Angeles is known for its warm and sunny weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine.

2. Beaches: Los Angeles is home to some of the most beautiful beaches ( and surf spots ) in the world, including Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, and Malibu Beach.

3. Hollywood: Los Angeles is the heart of the entertainment industry, and Hollywood is the place to be for movie buffs. There is no other city in the world that has a history of film and television quite like Los Angeles. If you are a movie buff, it’s worth it to visit LA.

In my opinion, the best Hollywood attraction you shouldn’t miss out on is a studio tour! 👉🏽 Learn more here

4. Museums: Los Angeles is home to some of the best museums in the world, including the Getty Museum, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the California Science Center, and the Natural History Museum.

5. Sports: Los Angeles is home to several professional sports teams, including the Lakers, Dodgers, Kings, and Rams.

6. Disneyland: Disneyland and California Adventure Park, located just outside of Los Angeles in Anaheim, is the most popular theme park in the world, offering a variety of rides and attractions for all ages.

7. Universal Studios: Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most popular and unique theme parks in the U.S., featuring rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows such as Harry Potter, Jurassic World, and The Simpsons.

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8. Food: Los Angeles is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse array of restaurants and cuisines to choose from. Check out delicious Oaxacan food at Madre or stop for happy hour food and drinks at one of the iconic rooftop bars such as EP & LP.

9. Nightlife: Los Angeles has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and music venues. Stop into the Bungalow in Santa Monica for beachy, laid-back vibes, or head to one of the many nightclubs or bars scattered around downtown LA and West Hollywood (LGBTQ district).

10. Shopping: Los Angeles is a shopper’s dream, with everything from high-end designer boutiques to trendy streetwear shops. Spend the day shopping at the Grove for designer items or wander through Santee Alley for popular flea market shopping.

11. Diversity: Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, with people from all over the world living and working here.

12. Celebrity sightings: Los Angeles is home to many celebrities, and it’s not uncommon to spot them out and about. However, it doesn’t happen as often as most may think! Celebrities tend to hang out in more exclusive, private venues around town and are almost never in the most “typical” tourist areas.

13. Art: Los Angeles has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and art museums to explore.

14. Outdoor Activities: Los Angeles offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking ( through the Hollywood Hills , Santa Monica Mountains, or Angeles National Forest), biking, kayaking, SUPing, surfing, and even snowboarding in the nearby mountains .

15. Landmarks: Los Angeles is home to many iconic landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign , the Walk of Fame, and the Griffith Observatory .

16. Live entertainment: You will never run out of things to do around LA, especially with how many live events such as concerts, comedy shows, pop-up performances, and musicals happen around town at popular venues such as the Los Angeles Bowl or the Pantages.

17. Natural beauty: Los Angeles is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including beaches, mountains, and forests.

18. Accessibility: Los Angeles is well-connected to other major cities in the United States and around the world, making it easy to travel to and from and take day trips (such as to the unique Danish-style town of Solvang) around southern California.

19. Weather-dependent activities: With the sunny weather in Los Angeles, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy year-round, such as visiting theme parks or the beach.

20. Diversity of neighborhoods: Each neighborhood in Los Angeles has its own unique vibe and culture, allowing visitors to explore different parts of the city and experience different lifestyles.

21. Events: Many incredibly unique and exciting events constantly happen throughout the city of Los Angeles. There are few cities in the world where you can see a star-studded movie premiere one night and a pop-up with rising comics in the back of a surf shop the next.

22. Instagram-worthy locations: Los Angeles is full of picturesque locations that are perfect for taking photos and sharing on social media.

Cons to Visiting Los Angeles:

23. Cost: Los Angeles is an expensive city, and visitors may find that the cost of food, lodging, and activities can add up quickly.

>>> RELATED POST: Top 11 CHEAP Places to Stay in Redondo Beach

24. Smog: Due to the high number of cars on the road, the air quality in Los Angeles can be poor at times.

25. Traffic: Los Angeles is notorious for its traffic, and getting around can be challenging at all hours of the day, especially during rush hour.

26. Homelessness: Los Angeles has a large homeless population, and visitors may encounter people experiencing homelessness on the streets.

27. Crime: Like any major city, Los Angeles has its share of crime, and visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety.

28. Distance between attractions: Los Angeles is a sprawling city, and some attractions can be far apart, making transportation and scheduling a challenge.

💡 Make sure to have a plan for each day while in LA. You will want to plan your activities to stay in one part of town (i.e. a Hollywood day and then a Venice/Santa Monica day) to avoid lots of driving.

29. Weather extremes: While Los Angeles is known for its sunny and pleasant year-round weather , it can also experience extreme heat waves or unexpected rain.

30. Parking: Finding parking in Los Angeles can be a challenge, and visitors may have to pay high prices for parking garages or valet services.

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31. Crowds: Many popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles can be crowded, especially during peak tourist season (summer and the holidays).

32. Beach pollution: While the beaches tend to stay fairly nice for such a large city, some of Los Angeles’ beaches can still have high levels of trash and pollution, especially during the busiest months.

💡 The nicest beaches in the area tend to be in Malibu or in the South Bay .

33. Tourist traps: Some areas of Los Angeles are known for overpriced or gimmicky tourist attractions that may not live up to expectations. Hollywood in particular is far less glamorous than many believe it to be.

💡 I recommend seeing the top sites ( the Hollywood sign , Walk of Fame, and a studio tour ) and then spending the majority of your time in nicer parts of town.

34. Panhandling: Visitors may encounter people panhandling or aggressively soliciting money in some areas of Los Angeles (especially at the Walk of Fame).

35. Street vendors: While some visitors may enjoy the street vendors selling food or goods, others may find the constant solicitations overwhelming or pushy.

36. Lack of public restrooms: Public restrooms can be hard to find in some areas of Los Angeles, making it difficult for visitors to stay hydrated and comfortable.

37. Wildfires: Los Angeles can experience wildfires, especially during hot and dry seasons (typically the fall). You do not have to worry if you’re staying in the city, but sections of freeways may shut down or it can affect air quality.

38. Lack of cohesive public transportation: Los Angeles is actually slowly starting to improve its public transportation options . There is a Metro Line and plenty of buses that run throughout the city, the issue is that the city is so sprawling it’s often difficult to get exactly where you want to go in a timely and efficient manner.

39. Earthquakes: Los Angeles is located in an earthquake-prone area, and visitors should be aware of the potential for earthquakes and how to prepare. This is not typically a concern, any earthquakes tend to be fairly small, however, it’s always best to be aware and prepared in the case there is a more major earthquake.

40. Hollywood illusion: Many visitors come to Los Angeles with the expectation of living out their Hollywood dreams, but the reality of the entertainment industry can be different from what is portrayed in movies and television.

41. Noise pollution: Many areas of Los Angeles can be noisy, especially near busy roads or popular nightlife spots.

42. Water scarcity: Los Angeles is located in a desert region and can experience water scarcity, which can affect the availability of water for activities like watering lawns or filling pools.

43. Freeway system: Los Angeles’ freeway system can be confusing and overwhelming for visitors, especially during rush hour or in areas with multiple lanes and exits.

FAQs to Determine if Los Angeles Is Worth It

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How Many Days Should I Spend in Los Angeles?

The amount of time you should spend in Los Angeles depends on various factors , including personal interests, budget, and travel itinerary. However, a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended to fully explore the city and experience its diverse offerings. Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis with numerous neighborhoods, spending at least a few days in Los Angeles allows for a more comprehensive exploration of the city and its attractions.

Some may decide to use Los Angeles as a base for taking day trips or getting to attractions such as Disneyland that are a bit further outside of the city. In that case, staying up to a week would be ideal.

I would recommend looking into staying just outside of LA proper such as in Manhattan Beach , which is a lovely beach community right to the south of LAX. It’s a bit less crowded and less touristy but has easy access to freeways, the airport, LA city, and plenty of things to do.

>>> You can check for suggestions on Manhattan Beach hotels HERE.

Is It Worth It to Go to LA for 3 Days?

Yes, it’s definitely worth it to go to Los Angeles for 3 days. While it may not be enough time to see everything that the city has to offer, 3 days is sufficient to experience some of its most popular attractions and get a taste of its unique culture.

Is 2 Days Enough in LA?

For some, 2 days in Los Angeles will be plenty. If you are not a big city person but want to get a flavor for Los Angeles and the absolute top attractions, a quick weekend trip will accomplish that. If you want a more in-depth experience in LA, you will want to tack on a couple more days.

Is Los Angeles a Walkable City?

Los Angeles is not generally considered a highly walkable city . The city is spread out over a large area and its neighborhoods are often far apart. Additionally, many of Los Angeles’ most popular attractions are located at a distance from one another, making it difficult to navigate on foot.

However, there are some areas of the city that are more pedestrian-friendly , such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica. Visitors can enjoy a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, window shop on Rodeo Drive, or take a walk along the beach in Santa Monica.

In recent years, Los Angeles has made efforts to improve its walkability , with the development of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly areas. Nevertheless, it is still recommended that visitors use a car or public transportation to navigate the city efficiently.

Why Is Los Angeles So Expensive?

Los Angeles is known for its high cost of living, and there are several factors that contribute to its high expense. One of the primary reasons for the high cost is the city’s desirability as a place to live and work .

Los Angeles is home to Hollywood, the entertainment capital of the world, which attracts millions of people each year. Additionally, the city is a hub for fashion, art, and design. Not to mention the excellent weather and proximity to the ocean.

The cost of goods and services in Los Angeles is also higher than in many other cities due to the high demand and the cost of doing business. All of these factors combined make Los Angeles one of the most expensive cities in the United States.

What Food Is LA Famous For?

Los Angeles is known for its diverse and delicious food scene , with a variety of cuisines and flavors to choose from. You will be able to find everything from Michelin-star restaurants to delicious street food.

One of the most famous foods in Los Angeles is the taco, with countless street vendors and restaurants serving up this iconic dish. Another staple of LA cuisine is In-N-Out burger , a beloved fast food chain with a cult following.

The city is also known for its Korean barbecue, sushi, and seafood, thanks to its location near the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the Original Farmer’s Market , which has been serving up local fare for over 80 years, or try one of the many food trucks that roam the city.

Finally, Los Angeles is also famous for its health-conscious cuisine , with many restaurants serving vegan and plant-based options. Overall, Los Angeles offers a wide range of delicious and unique food options that are sure to please any palate.

What Places Are Worth Visiting in Downtown Los Angeles?

Downtown Los Angeles is a vibrant and exciting area, with numerous attractions and landmarks worth visiting. One of the most iconic destinations in downtown LA is the Walt Disney Concert Hall , a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry.

Visitors can also check out the Broad Museum , a contemporary art museum that features works by artists such as Jeff Koons and Cindy Sherman. Another must-see attraction is the Grand Central Market , a bustling food hall that has been in operation since 1917 and is home to over 30 vendors offering a diverse range of cuisines.

Visitors can also take a stroll through the historic Olvera Street , a lively marketplace that offers a taste of traditional Mexican culture. Finally, the historic Bradbury Building , with its ornate ironwork and stunning atrium, is a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts. Overall, Downtown Los Angeles is a dynamic area with a rich cultural history, and visitors are sure to find plenty of things to see and do.

What Part of Los Angeles Is Safest for Tourists?

While crime can occur anywhere in any city, some neighborhoods in Los Angeles are considered safer for tourists than others. Beverly Hills, located just west of downtown, is one of the safest and most upscale areas of Los Angeles. The neighborhood is known for its luxurious homes (and hotels) , high-end shopping , and world-renowned restaurants, making it a popular destination for tourists.

Santa Monica , located on the coast, is another relatively safe area with plenty of attractions, including the famous Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade. West Hollywood and Silverlake are also considered generally safe areas for visitors, both are lively areas with fun bars and restaurants to explore.

However, visitors should always take precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being aware of their surroundings. I would NOT recommend tourists to visit Skid Row or Compton areas. And anywhere at night, it’s best to take a taxi or rideshare between destinations instead of walking , to be on the cautious side.

>>> READ MORE: Safest Cities in Los Angeles

What Is the Nicest City in LA?

There are plenty of “nice” areas around Los Angeles. One of the more luxurious parts of LA is Beverly Hills with its upscale shopping and dining along with quite a few mini mansions scattered throughout.

Malibu and the Pacific Palisades , located to the north of Los Angeles, offer some of the most picturesque and affluent areas of the city. Malibu is known for its stunning beaches and upscale homes and is a popular destination for surfing and sunbathing. Pacific Palisades boasts scenic hiking trails , luxurious homes, and a charming downtown area.

To the south of Los Angeles lies the South Bay LA area, which includes cities such as Manhattan Beach , Hermosa Beach , and Redondo Beach . This region offers a laid-back beach lifestyle , with miles of coastline, beach volleyball courts, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Is It Better to Stay in Hollywood, Downtown LA, or Santa Monica?

While Hollywood and Downtown LA offer a central location for exploring Los Angeles, they may not be the best areas to stay in for visitors concerned about safety and overall experience. Both neighborhoods can be busy and overcrowded, with a higher rate of crime and homelessness.

On the other hand, Santa Monica offers a more laid-back beach lifestyle, with a variety of outdoor activities, shopping, and dining options. It’s also considered one of the safer areas of Los Angeles , making it a great choice for visitors looking to explore the city without feeling unsafe or uncomfortable.

While Santa Monica is located a bit further away from some of the other major tourist attractions, it’s still easily accessible by public transportation or ride-sharing services. Overall, if safety and a more relaxed atmosphere are a priority , Santa Monica may be the best choice for your stay in Los Angeles.

Why Do People Like LA So Much?

Los Angeles is a popular destination for many reasons. For one, it’s home to some of the world’s most famous attractions , including Hollywood, Disneyland, and the iconic beaches of Santa Monica and Malibu. Additionally, Los Angeles offers a diverse array of cultural experiences, with world-class museums, theaters, and art galleries.

The city also boasts a rich culinary scene , with a wide variety of restaurants and food trucks serving up everything from tacos and sushi to vegan fare and gourmet burgers. Beyond the attractions and entertainment, Los Angeles is known for its year-round sunshine and mild climate , making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and beach-going.

Finally, Los Angeles is a melting pot of different cultures and communities, making it a vibrant and exciting place to explore and discover new things. Overall, the city’s combination of entertainment, culture, cuisine, climate, and diversity make it a popular destination and a worthwhile trip for travelers from around the world.

Why Is LA So Popular With Celebrities? Do You See Celebrities Often?

Los Angeles is popular with celebrities for a variety of reasons. For one, it’s the center of the entertainment industry , with many of the world’s largest movie studios and television networks located in the city. This means that there are many opportunities for actors, musicians, and other entertainers to work and network in the area.

Additionally, Los Angeles offers a glamorous lifestyle that many celebrities find attractive, with luxury homes, high-end restaurants, and exclusive clubs and events. As a result, many celebrities choose to live or spend a significant amount of time in Los Angeles.

However, while it’s possible to spot a celebrity in Los Angeles , it’s not a common occurrence for most people. Celebrities often live in exclusive neighborhoods or frequent private clubs and restaurants, making it unlikely that the average person will see them on a regular basis. That said, Los Angeles does offer a range of celebrity-related attractions, such as the Walk of Fame and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, that give visitors a taste of the city’s star-studded culture.

⭐️ There are many celebrity home tours available in LA – check out a few of them HERE.

Things to Know About Los Angeles Before Moving

Before moving to Los Angeles, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the cost of living in Los Angeles is generally higher than in many other cities in the United States. Housing prices and rents can be particularly expensive , especially in desirable areas such as Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood.

Second, traffic in Los Angeles can be notoriously congested , with many residents spending hours each day commuting to and from work. As such, it’s important to factor in traffic when planning your daily routine and commute.

Third, Los Angeles is a large and diverse city, with a variety of neighborhoods and communities to choose from. It’s important to do your research and explore different areas to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Finally, Los Angeles can be a very exciting and vibrant place to live, with plenty of opportunities for entertainment, culture, and outdoor activities. However, it’s important to be aware of potential safety concerns in certain areas and to take precautions to stay safe, especially when out at night or in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Overall, with some preparation and research, moving to Los Angeles can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

>>> READ MORE: Tips For Moving to Los Angeles Without a Job

Why Do People Leave LA?

While Los Angeles is a desirable place to live for many people, there are also reasons why some choose to leave the city. One factor is the high cost of living , particularly in terms of housing prices and rents. As a result, some people may find it difficult to afford to live in the city long-term, especially if they are on a tight budget.

Additionally, traffic and the long commutes that come with it can be a major source of frustration for many residents, leading some to seek out more manageable living situations elsewhere.

Finally, Los Angeles can be a very fast-paced and competitive place to live, which may not be appealing to everyone. For those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle, a quieter community, or a change of pace, leaving Los Angeles may be a necessary choice. Despite these factors, many people continue to love living in Los Angeles and find it to be a dynamic and exciting place to call home.

CONCLUSION: Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting?

In conclusion, Los Angeles is definitely worth visiting for those who are interested in experiencing a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and natural beauty. With its beautiful beaches, world-renowned museums, iconic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods, LA has something for everyone.

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, a history buff, or a movie fan, this city has plenty of attractions to keep you busy for days or even weeks. While Los Angeles does have its downsides, such as traffic and a high cost of living, these factors shouldn’t deter you from exploring this vibrant and exciting city. Overall, if you’re looking for an unforgettable travel experience, Los Angeles is worth a visit.

Related Posts: Is San Francisco Worth Visiting? Swimming With Dolphins in Los Angeles Symbols of Los Angeles and Their Meaning The Best Weather in California: 17 Lovely Cities

☀️ California FAQs ☀️

✈️ Where Can You Find the BEST Flight Deals to California? 1. Scott’s Cheap Flights – FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible 2. Skyscanner – FREE search engine, great for budget flights + deal

❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care. >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit California? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in California? Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Vrbo • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

🌴 Where Can You Find Tours? I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California? I very highly recommend  renting a car  in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option. >>> Best car rental rates and deals

Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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Los Angeles vs. San Diego: Which is the Better Vacation?

If you’re thinking about a vacation to California, a few top contenders usually come to mind right away: San Diego and Los Angeles. The two cities are SoCal’s best options for a fun-filled vacation with fabulous weather, beautiful beaches, and countless adventures to enjoy. Choosing between San Diego and Los Angeles when you’re planning a trip to Southern California can be a tough decision. The cities have a few similarities. Both L.A. and San Diego provide:

• Amazing weather year-round, terrific food
• Fabulous beaches
• Excellent restaurants and nightlife
• Diverse and dynamic attractions that are entertaining, educational, and culturally significant

They are only 120 miles apart but couldn’t be more different. So, which is a better fit for your next vacation?

Los Angeles vs. San Diego: Different Vibes

The most distinct difference between Los Angeles and San Diego is the vibe of both cities. The City of Angels is best known for its varied suburbs – each with its own character. It’s the second-largest city in the United States, so there’s no shortage of places to go or sights to see. There’s the glitz and glam of Hollywood, the upper-crust lifestyle of Malibu, and the Hollywood Hills. Downtown LA’s trendy “Thirty Mile Zone” with the Grottos and Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica and its iconic pier, Pasadena, Silicon Valley, and oceanside communities like Long Beach and Huntington Beach.

The LA Vibe

Los Angeles prides itself in presenting the best of the best. It is not an affordable city, and nearly every aspect of travel is expensive. Privacy is a commodity in LA, and you must pay for it if you want it. From lodging, dining, and entertainment expenses to inflated travel costs and time-consuming traffic jams and travel times, LA can be frustrating at points if you’re not used to it. If you ever hear the phrase “LA time,” you understand that doing anything in the city usually operates on its own timeframe, so there’s no use fighting it. In LA, it’s just a way of life.

The San Diego Vibe

San Diego is considerably more laid-back than LA. A vibrant and diverse border city, San Diego is best known for its lovely beaches, excellent museums, tasty food, and endless things to do around the city. The southernmost city on the West Coast, San Diego has a robust Hispanic community that offers many of the tastes and flavors of Mexico just across the border. The city’s excellent public transportation system makes it easy to get around. The downtown and the beach area are accessible on foot, and there are many walking, hiking, and biking trails.

Beautiful Balboa Park is one of the oldest public open spaces in the United States. Located in the city’s heart, Balboa Park is home to the San Diego Zoo and a few other noteworthy sights. The trendy Gaslamp Quarter is the city’s hub for dining and entertainment. Torrey Pines to the north of the city presents terrific scenery and a picture-perfect setting for championship golf. Along the coast, points of interest include the USS. Midway Museum, Mission Bay, Mission Beach, and Coronado Island.

Los Angeles vs. San Diego: Things to Do

Los Angeles and San Diego offer lots to do, but the activities can vary greatly. Los Angeles is filled with museums, landmarks, and Hollywood attractions, like Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Sign, and the Walk of Fame. LA is the go-to place for partiers, and live music, nightlife, and the club scene keep the party going until the wee hours of the morning. Clubs are vibrant, with extravagant décor and hot themes. For eats, LA has fantastic restaurants with innovative chefs, plus a wide variety of food trucks. Local beaches have a carnival-like atmosphere, with street performers, surfers, and skateboarders around every turn. Legendary Venice Beach is a mile and a half stretch of sand and sun.

Things are a bit different in San Diego: adventures are more geared toward families. The local beaches are laid-back and pristine, including Ocean Beach, Pacific Beach and La Jolla. Top-class chefs offer succulent cuisine with immaculate wine pairings at the dinner table. The city has a strong presence of Asian and Italian restaurants. Seafood also takes center stage; you can find fish tacos at nearly every restaurant in town – along with the city’s numerous food trucks. The city pulsates with DJs, live music, dance clubs, stage clubs, and rooftop bars at night.

Los Angeles vs. San Diego: Beaches

There’s no shortage of sandy beaches along the West Coast, and many of the best are in Los Angeles and San Diego. Each city has more than a dozen large beaches, so there are many options. Here are four of our favorites from each city:

Best Beaches in LA

• Venice Beach: The famous beach is a mile and a half long. Its noted boardwalk is filled with weightlifters, vendors, buskers, and street performers.
• Santa Monica Beach: Long white sandy beach made famous years ago by TV’s “Three’s Company.” Home of the Santa Monica Pier , with rides, shops, and amusements.
• Huntington City Beach: A 121-acre park known for its incredible surf breaks. Home to the International Surfing Museum and numerous surf shops. Plus, heaps of restaurants, bars, and breweries.
• Laguna Beach: Busy beach with volleyball and basketball, plus a boardwalk that runs the entire length of the beach. Good swimming at Main Beach in the middle of downtown Laguna Beach.

Best Beaches in San Diego

• Mission Beach: Some consider Mission Beach the perfect beach: a bustling boardwalk, a fun amusement park, and an ideal mix of locals and tourists. The most popular Mission Beach attraction is Belmont Park, an amusement park that houses the longstanding Giant Dipper roller coaster, built-in 1925, bumper cars, and other classic carnival rides.
• Ocean Beach: Ocean Beach is a classic SoCal beach. Surfers and sunbathers love the beach, and Ocean Beach Pier is a popular local fishing spot with panoramic views. Nearby Newport Avenue has antique shops, beachwear and surf boutiques, organic groceries, taquerias, and brewpubs.
• La Jolla Shores: Excellent kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving, with beautiful sea caves to explore. Parks, playgrounds, and gentle waves make this the ideal family beach in San Diego.
• Torrey Pines: Torrey Pines is a 1,750-acre oceanfront reserve just 30 minutes from downtown San Diego. People mainly visit the miles of trails through pine forests, sandstone canyons, and the 4.5-mile Torrey Pines State Beach. The reserve is open 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset, and all entering cars must pay an admission fee, which ranges from $10-$25.

Where to Stay in San Diego

Our vacation rentals are the perfect complement to a San Diego destination vacation. We have smaller condos near downtown that are a hit with romantic couples who want to escape to San Diego. We even have larger residences for families who wish to spend the week experiencing all of downtown’s amazing adventures, like Sea World, San Diego Zoo, and the USS. Midway.

A family vacation rental gives you privacy from other travelers and offers amenities you don’t get with a conventional hotel. Pick a rental with a private hot tub, full kitchen, or private deck or patio so that you can experience our beautiful San Diego nights with your loved ones. We even have rentals with immediate beach access and some only a short walk from the ocean. To find an excellent vacation rental condo or home in San Diego, view our available listings , or call (858) 531-3247.

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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

With so many things to do (and almost guaranteed great weather to do it in!), planning the perfect 2, 3 or 4 days in San Diego itinerary can seem a bit overwhelming.

San Diego is one of the most wonderful cities in the entirety of the United States. With countless things to do, perennially beautiful weather, and a laid-back lifestyle that is instantly infectious, San Diego is one of the most the best places to visit in California .

This itinerary will ensure that you get the most out of your trip to this dynamic coastal city whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation — the only problem is that it’s sure to make you long to return!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in San Diego?

If you’re in the beginning stages of planning your trip to San Diego, you’re likely wondering how many days you should spend in this Southern California city. San Diego is kind of the ultimate tourist destination, especially when compared to Los Angeles , with a seemingly endless array of things to do, so really no matter how long you’re able to spend here, you can ensure that you will always be occupied.

However, there is such a problem as spending too little time in San Diego! The city is massive and full of great activities and if you try to cram too much into too short a time period, you’re likely to burn out and exhaust yourself — not a recipe for a good holiday!

If you only have, say, 2 days in San Diego, then make sure to pace yourself and prioritise what you’d like to see. The 2-day itinerary in this article covers some of the highlights of central San Diego but omits any beach time, so if that’s what has drawn you to the city, then make sure to prioritise what you’d like to do.

Spending 3 days in San Diego or more is ideal as it will allow you to cover a lot of ground, see some sites, but also enjoy some time on the beach — and San Diego has a number of amazing beaches that you don’t want to miss!

If you have time for a 4-day itinerary, then you’re really in luck. This is the ideal amount of time to spend in the city as it allows you to really explore but also gives you a bit of time to relax if that’s what you’re after.

You honestly can’t go wrong if you want to spend more than 4 days because there is just so much to do in the city and the surrounding area. If you have more than four days, you can venture further afield, spend more time on the beach, or even take the time to visit cool places like the San Diego Zoo Safari Park!

Getting To & Around San Diego

San Diego is home to its own international airport and, though small, it serves numerous airlines and has countless direct connections to many US cities, making San Diego an easy destination to reach from the majority of major cities in the United States.

If you’re coming internationally, it’s likely that you will end up flying into Los Angeles . San Diego is about a 2 to 3-hour drive from LA and there are lots of interesting places to visit along the way . The two cities are also well-connected by train in about three hours.

Once in San Diego, it’s easiest to get around the city if you have your own car, but it isn’t entirely necessary, especially if you only plan on spending time in the downtown area.

This area is easy enough to get around on foot and the extensive San Diego Trolley System can take you, inexpensively, to most places a bit further afield. Especially if you’re following the 2-day itinerary in this article, you may not need a car to be able to enjoy it to its fullest.

If you’re keen to venture outside of the downtown area, even to the beaches, then having a car in San Diego is going to prove the most convenient way to get around.

If you’re planning on renting a car before heading to San Diego, we suggest using Rentalcars.com to find great prices. The platform aggregates deals across many major car rental companies and saves you time and money when it comes to hiring a car.

2, 3 or 4 Days in San Diego Itinerary

If you only have two days, spend them exploring some of the highlights of the city. Day 1 concentrates on the sites in Downtown San Diego where day two brings you to Balboa Park, which is chock-full of some of the best of San Diego attractions.

If you’re planning on visiting many of San Diego’s fantastic attractions, consider investing in a San Diego Go City Pass . These city cards can offer up to 50% savings on many attractions across the city and can be an incredible value for money if you visit even just a handful of places.

Day 1 – Explore Downtown

Spend your first day in San Diego exploring the dynamic downtown area. There is so much to see and do in Downtown San Diego that you’re sure to be entertained and having fun all day long.

San Diego Maritime Museum

Start your day along the harbour at the San Diego Maritime Museum. Historically, San Diego has been a very important port and you can learn all about its seafaring history at this super cool museum.

Situated on San Diego Bay, the maritime museum is home to a number of different ships that you can tour and learn about how they worked and functioned back in the day. Visiting this museum is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in San Diego.

The most famous of the ships at the museum is the Star of India , an iron-hulled ship built in 1863 that sailed from Britain to India and New Zealand before being acquired by the US to haul salmon from Alaska to California. This ship is fascinating and really worth exploring.

Also in the collection include the Californian , a beautiful tall ship and the HMS Surprise , which is known for its movie appearances in films like Pirates of the Caribbean and Master and Commander .

USS Midway Museum

Another museum on San Diego Bay is the USS Midway Museum and this is another great way to learn more about San Diego as an important Naval base.

Often lauded as one of the top museums in the entirety of San Diego (and there are a LOT of museums in the city!), this museum is actually based on a former aircraft carrier that you can tour and learn more about how an aircraft carrier functions.

In this museum, you can tour the ship itself and see everything behind the scenes, but you can also check out the aeroplanes and even try your hand at a flight simulator!

Both the Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum are excellent places to visit for both kids and adults alike because they’re interactive and educational.

Little Italy

From the Midway Museum, you can easily reach cool and trendy Little Italy on foot, and this is a great area to grab a bite to eat for lunch! Traditionally home to a number of Italian immigrants to San Diego, this area is now one of the most trendy neighbourhoods in the entire city.

Packed with both traditional Italian shops and delis, there are also ultra-hip restaurants, cool boutiques, awesome gastropubs and so much more.

Little Italy is definitely a neighbourhood worth exploring for a little bit as it is incredibly pedestrian-friendly and packed with cool things to see, do and eat! If you’re interested in exploring the culinary history of this cool area, check out this Little Italy food tour!

Seaport Village

Looping back toward the bayside area of downtown, it’s time now to head to Seaport Village.

This is an outdoor shopping centre that is situated directly on the water and it is packed full of restaurants and cool shops. This is the perfect place to pick up some fun souvenirs from your trip to San Diego!

Though there are certainly lots of shops in Seaport Village that shill mass-manufactured tourist souvenirs, there are plenty of local shops where you can pick up unique things as gifts or as mementoes from your trip to this lovely Southern California city.

Gaslamp Quarter

And finally, it’s time to head into one of the most iconic and well-known areas of San Diego’s downtown, the Gaslamp Quarter.

Comprising about sixteen city blocks, this area is known for being home to historic, Victorian-era buildings and the eponymous gaslamps, this district is known to be the foremost nightlife area of San Diego.

There is a lot of history in this picturesque and walkable district, especially considering it fell into complete disarray in the mid-20th century and became synonymous as San Diego’s red-light district.

Starting in the ’80s and ’90s, the district saw some new investments and a resurgence and is now a thriving and safe area of downtown San Diego and home to many iconic landmarks, including the massive Petco Park — home of the San Diego Padres!

The Gaslamp Quarter is ripe for exploring and, if you’re not travelling with kids, it’s also one of the best places to go for a night out in the city. If you’re interested in the culinary scene of this neighbourhood along with learning a bit about its not-so-savoury past, consider going on this food tour of the Gaslamp .

Day 2 – Visit the Attractions of Balboa Park

On your second day in San Diego, it’s time to head to Balboa Park. Home to beautiful gardens, seventeen museums and the world-famous San Diego Zoo, you can easily spend days in Balboa Park and still not see it all.

San Diego Zoo

If you’re an animal lover or travelling with kids, no visit to San Diego is complete without heading to the incredible San Diego Zoo. As the most visited zoo in the entirety of the United States and considered by many to be one of the best zoos in the world, the San Diego Zoo is a place that you could easily devote an entire day to.

Famous for being one of the few zoos in the US that have successfully bred Giant Pandas (the two pandas that used to call the zoo home, however, have now been repatriated to their ancestral home in China), the San Diego Zoo is home to 650 species and more than 3,500 animals.

With exhibits spanning the entire globe, the zoo has the most koalas outside of Australia, and everything else from monkeys to elephants to polar bears.

So, if you are an animal lover, you absolutely can’t miss the San Diego Zoo.

Visit the Museums

Balboa Park is also famous for its many museums housed within the area and if you and your family aren’t keen to visit the zoo, then make sure not to miss one or two of the many museums located within the park.

My personal favourite museums include the Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Man, the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum, however, there are countless others that encompass everything from science to art and you’re sure to find a museum that suits your own interests.

If you want to visit the zoo and the museums in Balboa Park, this is where the San Diego Go City Pass can come in handy and end up paying for itself, as many of these attractions are included in it.

Explore the Gardens

Balboa Park is also home to some incredibly beautiful botanical gardens and if you’re looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, spending time exploring these gardens is the perfect antidote!

Some of the most beautiful gardens include the Japanese Friendship Garde, the Australian Garden, the Alcazar Garden, the Desert Cactus Garden and the beautiful Botanical Building. Take the time to wander (you can even do a walking tour of the area!) and enjoy the plant life and beautiful landscaping of these gardens — you won’t be sorry!

Day 3 – Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches

If you’re spending three days, it’s time to hit the beach! There are countless beaches in San Diego that all have different things to offer travellers.

Depending on your travel style, pick one beach area to spend the whole day in or take the day to explore the little towns and nature surrounding San Diego’s three main beach areas! For those who aren’t too interested in the beach, you can also use this time to explore Old Town San Diego.

Pacific Beach

The northernmost beach on day three, Pacific Beach is a beautiful, wide expanse of sand and is one of San Diego’s most beautiful beaches. Located just south of La Jolla and a bit north of Mission Bay, Pacific Beach is about a 20-30 minute drive from downtown San Diego, depending on the traffic.

The beach at PB is arguably the main attraction here and it is one of the most beautiful in the city. However, the town around it also has some nice attractions and maintains a classic, Southern California vibe.

There are lots of cool shops, restaurants and cafes that are worth popping into and, of course, you can’t go wrong with splashing around in the Pacific while here.

Mission Bay

Mission Bay is arguably San Diego’s most popular beach area and it really isn’t hard to understand why. The expansive Mission Beach is wide and beautiful, with calm enough waters that make it the perfect place to try your hand at surfing. There is also a great boardwalk area that is lined with various restaurants a surf shops.

Another major attraction of Mission Bay is Belmont Park, a classic seaside amusement park complete with a picturesque wooden roller coaster, countless other rides, arcades and more — the perfect place to entertain both young and old alike!

There are also some great restaurants in MB and the main attractions are very family-friendly, making this beach a great option for those with young kids as everyone is sure to be entertained here!

Ocean Beach

If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe on the seaside, then you can’t go wrong with Ocean Beach. A beach suburb located about fifteen minutes from Downtown San Diego, you would be forgiven if you feel as if you’ve been transported back to the 1970s when wandering through this cool area.

This is one of the least touristy of beaches included on this itinerary and it is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a more local, mellow vibe rather than bustline Mission Bay or upscale Pacific Beach.

OB is famous amongst surfers and has some great surf spots and it is also home to some great, hole-in-the-wall restaurants, as well.

All in all, Ocean Beach is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for mellow, hippie vibes.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Located in Ocean Beach just a bit south of the beach itself is Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, a perfect place to head if you want to, well, watch the sunset.

These dramatic cliffs jut into the Pacific Ocean and provide absolutely stunning views. It is also a very popular area for more experienced surfers as there are large waves at the base of the cliffs.

There are also countless walking trails where you can meander along the cliff edges trying to seek out the perfect view, or you could opt to climb down the steps to the beach area and search for sea creatures in the many tide pools. If you’re fortunate enough, you may see some of San Diego’s many sea lions frolicking in the waves!

Cabrillo National Monument

A bit further afield along Point Loma from Sunset Cliffs lies the Cabrillo National Monument. Boasting many walking trails, tide pooling opportunities, and the potential for excellent views of the entirety of San Diego’s downtown area all the way to the Coronado Bridge.

Here you can also visit the historic Old Point Loma Lighthouse and, at low tide, climb down to the sea and hunt for cool sea creatures in the tide pools. This is the perfect place to visit in the city of San Diego if you want to get a bit off the beaten tourist trail and experience some of the best views of the city.

Day 4 – Explore the surrounding area

If you have a full 4 days, there are numerous different options that you could follow. All of these options lie quite a bit further afield from downtown San Diego and each option should have an entire day devoted to it.

Coronado Island

The first way you could spend day four of your San Diego itinerary is to visit the lovely Coronado Island. Located across San Diego Bay and accessible via the iconic Coronado Bridge, this island is home to a charming downtown area, historic architecture, and the famous Hotel Del Coronado.

As the second-largest wooden structure in the United States, this Victorian-Era beach resort is absolutely beautiful and worth exploring even if you’re not staying at the hotel.

Coronado Beach is also, arguably, one of San Diego’s nicest — a vast expanse of sand with fairly calm waters, making it perfect for families. Coronado is also the perfect place to rent a bicycle and pedal along the seaside promenade and enjoy the lovely beachy vibes. You can also get great views of the San Diego skyline from Coronado Island, as well.

Those who want to do more than wander around the hotel or lounge on the beach may like this walking tour of historic Coronado . Or, if you just want to enjoy the beach from a distance, you can take a 2-hour cruise that goes past Coronado.

If you want to be a bit more active and explore one of San Diego’s most beautiful suburbs, then head a bit further north to explore the beautiful La Jolla area. Known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, great restaurants and expensive real estate, La Jolla is an elite neighbourhood but also absolutely gorgeous.

On any given day, you can see people paragliding from the iconic cliffs or kayaking in the waters below. This is the perfect place to explore San Diego from the water’s edge and to check out the sea caves and wildlife that live there.

Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding through La Jolla Cove are popular activities in the area and you can choose to do a two-hour guided kayaking tour to explore the sea caves or take a surfing lesson.

La Jolla is also home to the well-regarded Scripps Aquarium, where you can check out endemic sea life while staying nice and dry! Nearby, you can also visit Torrey Pines State Reserve, which has a number of great hikes and gorgeous views if you still want to be a bit active.

Day Trip to Baja California

If you’re looking for a complete change of scenery, then consider going on a day trip south of the border to lovely Baja California, Mexico! It is incredibly easy and fun to head to Mexico for a day and you have the opportunity to sample some of the best gastronomy in the world! For example, this full-day tour of Baja California packs a lot if you’re short on time!

Tijuana makes for an incredibly easy day trip as you can reach the border crossing at San Ysidro easily from the San Diego Trolley system and walk across the border in just about ten minutes — just make sure to bring your passport! Alternatively, you can take this intro to Mexico organised tour!

If you’re interested in heading further afield, you can easily hop on a bus to Ensenada , a lovely seaside city about an hour south of Tijuana. Ensenada is famed for being the birthplace of the fish taco and the fresh seafood in the city is second to none.

And finally, if you’re a wine fan, then you may be interested in touring the vineyards in the Valle de Guadalupe, located just inland from Ensenada. This area grows some fantastic wine and you can opt to go on a guided tour or drive yourself there — just make sure that your rental car allows you to cross the border!

Where to Stay in San Diego

Urban Boutique Hotel – Situated in cool and trendy Little Italy in the heart of downtown San Diego, this boutique hotel is a great place to base yourself in this Southern California city. Located within easy walking distance of many major attractions, they have numerous rooms available to suit all kinds of travellers. 

Hotel Del Coronado – One of the most iconic hotels in the country and not just San Diego, if you’re looking for a luxury stay in San Diego, you can’t go wrong with the Hotel Del. This hotel is not only absolutely beautiful and historic, it is situated on the lovely Coronado Beach, as numerous fantastic restaurants on site and also boasts countless other amenities that are sure to make your stay a great one.

Private Rental – Another popular option in San Diego is a private rental. There are countless properties available such as this charming studio in Pacific Beach that is super close to the beach.

California Dreams Hostel   – If you’re travelling to San Diego solo or on a tight budget, this hostel is an excellent choice for you. It is located in Pacific Beach close to numerous attractions in San Diego. They have both dorm and private rooms available and great common areas perfect for meeting other travellers.  

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other hotels in San Diego!

Planning the perfect San Diego itinerary isn’t always an easy task with so many things to do in the city. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend in San Diego or have longer to devote to the city, you’re sure to fall in love. Follow these tips to ensure you have an excellent trip to San Diego!

Are you planning to visit San Diego? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

HI Maggie, Great info provided in your blog. I plan to travel in Feb 12-17 to San Diego for Business trip and with few days available with me, I would like to spend time exploring San Diego and Maybe do a quick trip to LA. I may have 12th Feb late afternoon & Feb 13th half day & 17th Full day & 18th Half day Any suggestions. Kindly share, will be helpful.

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Why You Should Visit San Diego Over Los Angeles

Next time you’re planning a Southern California vacation, rethink your decision to head straight for the City of Angels. Just a couple hours south of Los Angeles sits the more charming, less crowded city of San Diego. Read on to discover why San Diego is topping SoCal vacation lists.

Better beaches.

Although non-natives tend to associate beachy stereotypes with Los Angeles, San Diego definitely takes the cake on beach quality in Southern California. The beaches in San Diego are cleaner and less crowded than those in Los Angeles, offering you a more intimate and comfortable experience. Plus, the conditions are better for water sports, making this city a hotspot for surfers. Some of the best beaches in the city include Mission Beach, Coronado Beach, La Jolla Cove, Pacific Beach, Imperial Beach, Silver Strand, and Ocean Beach.

Less Traffic

Authentic Mexican Food

While Los Angeles may have a strong foodie culture, no city in California can match San Diego’s high quality Mexican food. With such close proximity to Mexico, the city is guaranteed to provide you with the most authentic Mexican food possible. The only drawback? It may make it impossible for you to enjoy any other city’s Mexican food ever again.

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Great Breweries

Aside from the mythical Mexican food in San Diego, the city is filled with craft beer lovers. The city has become known as home to some of the best breweries in the country, many of which you can visit for tours and tastings. Some local favorites include Alpine Beer Company, Ballast Point Brewing Company, Green Flash Brewing Company, Stone Brewing Company, and Societe Brewing Company.

Professional Football

Once upon a time, Los Angeles was home to the Rams and the Raiders, but today the city has lost its NFL teams to other cities. Angelenos may try to claim that they aren’t missing out since the city is home to great college football programs like the UCLA Bruins and the USC Trojans, but it’s just not the same. San Diego, on the other hand, has a thriving football culture supporting the Chargers.

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Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Los Angeles vs San Diego; Where Should I Visit?

CHOOSING BETWEEN LOS ANGELES VS SAN DIEGO?

You feel the draw of the sunshine state calling your name. You hear the sound of the crashing waves. Los Angeles vs San Diego.  Which city is better if I only have a few days to explore?

Do you choose the glamor and class of Hollywood or the mellow quintessential surfer lifestyle of San Diego? The world-famous San Diego Zoo or Disneyland? The Padres or the Dodgers?

It’s true; there is something to be said for each city. You’re going to enjoy stunning beaches lined with palm trees at either location. It’s just a different experience at the beach and getting to the beach depending on the city you choose.

At International Traveler’s House in San Diego, we will argue that there is no comparison, and hands down San Diego is your best bet. Mickey Mouse may be great, but he’s no comparison to the relaxed and Pura Vida vibes San Diego provides. As for the glamour of Hollywood, it might not be all it’s cracked up to be.

We also know that Los Angeles as a city has been dumping way more marketing dollars into the abyss to attract you. That’s not a solid argument. It’s just something to consider.

In case you don’t believe us, here’s a play by play of what you can expect in each city:

OVERALL VIBE

Both cities offer the Southern California vibe you are looking for with loads of sunshine, diverse cuisine and trendy styles. 

Los Angeles is way more crowded and spread out across hundreds of miles. Being so gigantic, Los Angeles doesn’t have the community vibe that you would find in San Diego.  Los Angeles is a major hub for business and feels like a major city not necessarily for vacationing.

San Diego’s main attractions is the beautiful weather, beaches, and landscapes which creates the perfect destination for leisure travelers.  San Diego is much smaller than Los Angeles and feels like the little brother who is happily relaxed within itself. 

BEACHES IN LOS ANGELES VS SAN DIEGO

We enjoy over 70 miles of pristine beaches in San Diego. Bright, gorgeous blue waters as far as the eye can see. What’s even more impressive is that the longest stretch of continuous beach on the west coast is Pacific Beach. We have La Jolla, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach, all worthy of your time. North County San Diego as the locals call it, also offers more family-style beach experience travelers to get an Airbnb and take it slow.

Let’s not forget mentioning  Slomo , the famous SD skater who can be seen cruising the boardwalks in Pacific Beach! 

Los Angeles also showcases long stretches of beaches. The more notable are Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Malibu, and South Bay. There’s no denying they are stunning. The masses flock there in swarms. Unfortunately, it causes massive traffic jams and difficulties finding a spot to spread out on the beach.

Venice Beach offers to most culture out of the beaches in LA but our favorite beach is Malibu for the majestic scenery.

Los Angeles is home to people who want to be a musician or movie star, so it’s easy to say the nightlife and entertainment top SD.  They have the famous clubs like Avalon Hollywood, Bardot, Sound and more. Don’t forget your camera because you are bound to bump into celebrities when you go out in Hollywood.

San Diego is more known for day drinking and enjoying a craft beer in the sunshine. Although, San Diego’s night scene has been drastically growing. Our own FLUXX and OMNIA give the clubs to the north a run for their money every weekend. Check out our  Spring Break guide  for the lowdown on the San Diego nightlife.

FOOD & DRINKS

Being located in the such great climate, both cities offer delicious food that can be harvested locally or caught from the Pacific Ocean.  The diverse cultures in Southern California provide endless food options for all palettes.

You will find more high-end and gourmet restaurants in Los Angeles if you are a foodie. San Diego is home to endless local smaller restaurants that will open you mind to how food can be prepared.

Both cities have a huge influence of Mexican cuisine being located so closet to Mexico. One thing Los Angeles doesn’t have is the California Burrito, a local tradition for all San Diegans which comes with Carne Asada, cheese, and french fries.

San Diego prides itself on having some of the best breweries in the craft beer scene including Stone Brewing and Ballast Point Brewing.

Los Angeles tops the list of “Worst Traffic in the Country” pretty much every year. Occasionally, it falls second to Washington DC. When recounting the time spent in a typical commute, the time is measured in days and months.  Los Angeles is very spread out, so to get anywhere you are looking at 30 minutes to an hour and a half in traffic.

All the attractions in San Diego are less than 15 minutes apart. If you stay in Downtown San Diego, you are only 15 minute drive to five different beaches. 

If you find yourself in either Los Angeles or San Diego, always plan to go to the beach earlier for less traffic. Weekends can also be chaotic, so try to do your beach days mid week.

Uber is going to be the best way to explore the cities. You can quickly get a ride at an affordable price for anywhere you want to go. Also, there are shared Ubers which sometimes cut the price in half.

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS 

San Diego is spoiled with countless significant attractions. There is the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, the Coronado Bridge, Sea World, and the list goes on. To make it a fair fight, we’ll pause there.

Los Angeles doesn’t do half bad. They have Disneyland, Universal Studios, Knott’s Berry Farm, the Observatory, and the Hollywood sign. Although, if you had to choose between a famous mouse and a real-life baby rhinoceros, what would you choose?

Not sold?  Check out this YouTube channel .

OVERALL AWESOMENESS OF LOS ANGELES VS SAN DIEGO

The vibe of San Diego is laid back, relaxed, and ready to have a good time. Our neighbors to the north are more fast-paced and busy trying to become stars.

  It must be all the time stuck in traffic that raises blood pressure.  

Here we really do embody that quintessential SoCal vibe in every aspect of the city. Spending a day at Balboa Park? Why not take a yoga class while you are over there? A simple trip to the beach could turn into a surfing lesson. Exploring the zoo will charm and delight.

When you tally everything up, we’re confident you’ll make the right decision.  Here’s a little more evidence backing up our claim just in case you were wavering .

HOW TO HAVE THE BEST TRIP IN SAN DIEGO 

Have you settled on San Diego? You made the right choice. You can avoid the misery of regret like many other travelers who cut their San Diego stay short to visit LA. It’s true! We regularly have travelers stay with us, head up to Los Angeles, and then retreat back to San Diego merely a day or two later. Skip that step. Choose San Diego for the entirety of your beach getaway.

Here’s our biggest insider tip to having the best Southern Californian experience: Stay at an International Traveler’s House property and let our friendly staff host you with the ultimate local experience.

With three properties in the SD area, we have something that will fit your unique style while offering all the unmatched perks of staying with us. At ITH, we value the importance of our guests’ experiences. To us, you are a friend we haven’t met yet. And when friends come to visit, it’s customary to show them around and feed them. Which is why we provide a free breakfast and activities daily.

If we haven’t convinced you that you would be far better off in our beautiful city, check our guide to the SoCal Trifecta. It will give you the lowdown on hitting Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and the phenomenal San Diego.

Just do yourself a favor. Book a little extra time in San Diego. You’ll thank us later.

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12 Must-See Attractions Between San Diego And Los Angeles

• Last updated May 25, 2023
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category United States

Are you planning a road trip between San Diego and Los Angeles? Well, brace yourself for breathtaking sceneries and fun-filled attractions that are sure to leave you in awe. This stretch of the Californian coastline might be a mere 120 miles, but it is packed with endless possibilities. From iconic beaches and world-renowned museums to amusement parks and animal sanctuaries, the list of things to do and see is endless. So, get ready to hit the road and discover the top 12 must-see attractions between San Diego and Los Angeles, because your adventure starts now!

What You'll Learn

La jolla cove, torrey pines state natural reserve, legoland california, uss midway museum, balboa park, san diego zoo, birch aquarium, seaworld san diego, disneyland park, universal studios hollywood, santa monica pier, griffith observatory.

Just about halfway between San Diego and Los Angeles, you'll find one of the most beautiful beaches in California – La Jolla Cove. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque setting, it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy some fun in the sun. But La Jolla Cove is so much more than just a stunning beach. Here are five things to do when you're in the area.

Hit the Beach

Of course, the number one thing to do at La Jolla Cove is to spend some time at the beach. The water here is remarkably clear and perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or kayaking. Keep your eyes open for playful sea lions who like to sunbathe on the beach. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try some cliff diving!

Shop and Dine in La Jolla Village

Just a short walk from the beach, you'll find the charming La Jolla Village. This area offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and art galleries to explore. Be sure to stop in at the Museum of Contemporary Art to get your cultural fix. There's always something interesting going on, from art exhibits to film screenings.

Visit the La Jolla Cove Sea Cave

The La Jolla Cove Sea Cave is a natural wonder that you won't want to miss. You can take a guided kayak tour to explore the cave, or simply admire it from the shore. This awe-inspiring experience will leave you feeling like you've discovered something truly unique.

Take a Hike in Torrey Pines State Reserve

If you're in the mood for a little exercise and fresh air, be sure to check out the Torrey Pines State Reserve. This park offers several hiking trails, all with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. You'll find a variety of flora and fauna here, including the rare Torrey Pine, which only grows in this area.

See the Birch Aquarium

Located on the UC San Diego campus, the Birch Aquarium is a world-class facility that's home to more than 60 ocean habitats. You'll see everything from sharks to seahorses to sea turtles. Be sure to check out their special exhibits, which change throughout the year.

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Located along the stunning coastline between San Diego and Los Angeles is the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. This reserve is one of the most popular natural destinations in Southern California, attracting visitors from all over the world. With miles of breathtaking hiking trails and breathtaking vistas, there are many things to do and see at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

The reserve is home to Torrey Pine trees, which are a rare and endangered species that only grows in this area. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the fragrant trees and observe the variety of plant and animal life that calls this area home. Bird watchers will find a plethora of unique species, including the endangered California Gnatcatcher, the Peregrine Falcon, and the Horned Lark.

One of the most popular attractions at the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is its hiking trails. There are over eight miles of trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding landscape. From easy strolls to challenging hikes, there's something for everyone. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and plenty of water, especially during the hot summer months.

The reserve also has a beach area that's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The beach is also a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders.

For those who are interested in history, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve has a rich and fascinating past. The area was once inhabited by the Kumeyaay people, and visitors can explore the remnants of their culture. The reserve also played a significant role in World War II as a training ground for Marines.

In summary, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve is a must-see for anyone traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles. With its unique plant and animal life, scenic hiking trails, beautiful beach, and rich history, there's something for everyone. So, be sure to add it to your itinerary and enjoy all that it has to offer.

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If you're looking for things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and head to Legoland California. This family-friendly theme park is filled with excitement for visitors of all ages and interests, and is located just half an hour north of San Diego and an hour south of Los Angeles. Here's why Legoland California should be on your itinerary:

• Lego-Themed Rides and Attractions - There are more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions at Legoland California, all of which are centered around the beloved Lego brand. Younger visitors will love the Duplo Playtown and Fairy Tale Brook, while older kids and adults will enjoy the Coastersaurus and Lego Ninjago The Ride.
• Imagination Zone - Bring out your inner creator at Imagination Zone, where you can build and test your own Lego creations. You can even see your handiwork come to life in the 4D Lego movie.
• Water Park - If you're visiting in the summer, don't miss the opportunity to cool off at the Legoland California Water Park. With slides, pools, and play areas for all ages, it's the perfect place to relax and splash around.
• Miniland USA - See famous landmarks from across the USA recreated in Legos at Miniland USA. From the Golden Gate Bridge to Times Square, it's a fascinating display that will leave you in awe of the creative possibilities of these little plastic bricks.
• Sea Life Aquarium - Located within the Legoland California resort, the Sea Life Aquarium is home to more than 5,000 sea creatures including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Younger visitors will enjoy the interactive touch pool and daily feedings.

With so much to see and do, a visit to Legoland California is the perfect addition to any itinerary between San Diego and Los Angeles. Make sure to plan ahead and purchase tickets online to save time and money, and get ready for a day filled with imagination and fun.

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Are you heading down the California coast between San Diego and Los Angeles and looking for some fun places to stop? Look no further than the USS Midway Museum!

Located in San Diego, the USS Midway was a United States aircraft carrier that served from 1945 to 1992. Now open as a museum, visitors can tour the carrier and learn about the lives of sailors who served on board.

Cross the gangway and step onto the flight deck, where planes took off and landed. Get a bird’s eye view of San Diego’s harbor and skyline from the top of the island, the ship’s command center. Then explore the hangar deck, where planes were maintained and stored.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. The USS Midway Museum offers several interactive exhibits, including a flight simulator where visitors can experience actual aircraft carrier takeoffs and landings.

Take a guided tour led by docents, many of whom served on board themselves. Hear stories about life on the high seas and learn about the Midway’s storied history. And don’t forget to visit the gift shop on the way out for unique souvenirs – like a classic sailor’s hat!

The USS Midway Museum is a great way to break up a long drive between San Diego and Los Angeles. Spend a few hours immersing yourself in the history of this mighty ship. It’s an experience you won’t forget.

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One of the most popular and historic destinations to visit between San Diego and Los Angeles is Balboa Park, located in the heart of San Diego. Balboa Park is a sprawling 1,200-acre park that offers visitors a wealth of activities and attractions to enjoy.

One of the most notable features of Balboa Park is the architecture and cultural exhibits. Visitors can explore Spanish Colonial Revival-style buildings that date back to the early 1900s. One of the most iconic buildings in the park is the California Building, which houses the Museum of Man. Visitors can also view a collection of over 5,000 years of human history and culture from around the world at the San Diego Museum of Art.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Balboa Park offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking, and walking trails. The park boasts over 65 miles of trails along scenic routes, gardens, and open spaces, making it a great place to explore the natural beauty of southern California.

There are also numerous gardens and landscapes within Balboa Park that are a sight to behold. Visitors can take in the beauty of the Botanical Building and Gardens, which feature exotic plants and a lily pond. The Japanese Friendship Garden is another notable garden that showcases Japanese architecture and flora.

Other attractions within Balboa Park include the San Diego Zoo, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, and the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center. The zoo is home to over 4,000 animals from gorillas to penguins to koalas. The Spreckels Organ Pavilion is home to one of the world's largest outdoor pipe organs, while the Fleet Science Center is a state-of-the-art interactive science museum.

Overall, Balboa Park is a must-see destination for anyone traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles. With its rich history, diverse cultural exhibits, and ample outdoor activities, it offers something for everyone to enjoy.

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When traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles, there are plenty of interesting and exciting things to do that will pique your interest. One place that is a must-visit destination on this trip is the San Diego Zoo. The world-famous zoo is one of the largest and most respected in the world, and is a must-visit spot for animal lovers.

The San Diego Zoo is home to over 3,700 animals that represent over 660 species. These animals come from all over the world, and many of them are rare or endangered species. Visitors can see majestic lions, tigers, and bears, as well as exotic birds, reptiles, primates, and much more.

One of the best things about the San Diego Zoo is the vastness of the park. You can easily spend an entire day taking in all the 100 acres of the park has to offer. The paths and exhibits are well-laid-out and easy to navigate, and there are plenty of benches and shaded areas to relax and catch your breath.

One highlight of the zoo is the Giant Panda exhibit, featuring these rare and adorable bears protected under the zoo's conservation program. The pandas are a fan favorite, and the zoo offers a behind-the-scenes tour of the panda research station where visitors can learn how the zoo is working to preserve this endangered species.

Another must-see exhibit at the zoo is the Elephant Odyssey, where you can view elephants in a natural setting, surrounded by other species that share their habitat, such as camels and jaguars. This exhibit is designed to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the delicate ecosystems these animals live in, and how they play a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of our planet.

Overall, the San Diego Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers, and is a perfect way to break up the journey between San Diego and Los Angeles. With so much to see and do, both children and adults will be sure to find something to enjoy at this world-renowned attraction. So, make sure you add it to your bucket list and enjoy your journey!

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If you're planning a road trip between San Diego and Los Angeles, you're in luck as there are plenty of fun things to see and do along the way. One spot that's definitely worth a visit is the Birch Aquarium, which is located in La Jolla, San Diego.

The Birch Aquarium is an excellent destination for families with young children and anyone with an interest in marine biology. This aquarium is part of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography and offers a wide range of educational and interactive exhibits that showcase the diversity of marine life found in the area.

One of the highlights of the Birch Aquarium is the Kelp Forest exhibit, which replicates an underwater forest of giant kelp that's found off the coast of La Jolla. Visitors can witness different species of fish, sea turtles, and even sharks swimming through this mesmerizing environment.

Another exhibit worth checking out is the Hall of Fishes, which contains more than 60 tanks of different sizes. This exhibit showcases a variety of fish, from colorful tropical species to native Californian species that inhabit the coastal waters. Here, you'll also find interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about each species and their natural habitat.

The Seadragons and Seahorses exhibit is another must-see at the Birch Aquarium. Visitors can marvel at the rare species of seahorses and sea dragons that live in the temperate and tropical waters of the world. The aquarium staff is always on hand to answer questions and provide insights into these fascinating creatures.

In addition to these exhibits, the Birch Aquarium has a touch pool that allows visitors to get up close and personal with some of the inhabitants of the tide pools. Here, you can touch and feel animals such as starfish, sea urchins, and crabs.

If you're looking for even more excitement, the Birch Aquarium also offers various events and activities, such as guided tours, animal encounters, and movie screenings.

Overall, the Birch Aquarium is an excellent destination that's well worth a visit if you're traveling between San Diego and Los Angeles. Whether you're a marine biology enthusiast or just looking for some family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone at this world-class aquarium.

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If you're looking for things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, SeaWorld San Diego is a fantastic destination to add to your list. Located in the beautiful city of San Diego, SeaWorld offers visitors a chance to get up close and personal with some of the ocean's most magnificent creatures.

One of the main draws of SeaWorld is the variety of ocean life you can see and interact with. From dolphins to sea lions, sharks to octopuses, the park offers a vast array of marine animals that are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages. Visitors also have the opportunity to view whales, which can be seen up close from the park's "Orca Encounter" exhibit.

For those who love thrill rides, SeaWorld offers an excellent mix of amusement park fun and marine education. The park features several popular roller coasters, including the Manta, a coaster that brings riders close to the waves and gives them a feeling of flying over the ocean. The park's newest attraction, the Tidal Twister, is a unique ride that curves and twists like a gigantic wave.

In addition to these amazing attractions, SeaWorld offers a variety of aquariums and exhibits showcasing marine life in all its colorful glory. The park's "Aquarium de la Mer" is a particularly impressive exhibit that showcases more than 50 species of fish and other sea creatures. Other exhibits include the Penguin Encounter, where visitors can interact with penguins, and Turtle Reef, which showcases some of the marine world's most majestic turtles.

Overall, SeaWorld San Diego offers a fantastic mix of education and entertainment, allowing visitors to learn about the ocean's incredible creatures while enjoying some of the world's best thrill rides. Whether you're traveling alone or with family, this amazing park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience that you'll remember for years to come. So if you're looking for things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, make sure to include SeaWorld in your itinerary.

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A visit to Southern California involves lots of fun and excitement. Whether you’re headed to Los Angeles or San Diego, there are plenty of things to do between these two major cities. And one of the top attractions that you should not miss in the area is Disneyland Park!

Located in Anaheim, California, Disneyland Park is the perfect place to visit for both kids and adults. It is a magical world filled with thrilling rides, entertainment, and delicious treats that will leave you with unforgettable memories. The park is divided into several themed lands, including Main Street, Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Tomorrowland, and Critter Country.

As you step into the park, you’ll be greeted by the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, which is the centerpiece of the park. From there, you can begin your adventure by visiting your favorite characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy. There are plenty of opportunities to take photos and interact with the characters throughout the park.

One of the most popular attractions is Space Mountain, a thrilling rollercoaster ride that takes you on a journey through outer space. Another must-see ride is Pirates of the Caribbean, a boat ride that immerses you in the world of swashbuckling pirates and their adventures on the high seas.

For a more relaxed experience, you can take a leisurely ride on the Mark Twain Riverboat or the Disneyland Railroad. These rides offer a unique view of the park and give you a chance to rest your tired feet after a long day of walking and standing in queues.

If you’re visiting the park with kids, they will love the iconic rides like It’s a Small World, Peter Pan’s Flight, and the Mad Tea Party. These attractions are designed for young children and offer a gentle introduction to the world of Disneyland.

And let’s not forget about the food! Disneyland Park is known for its delicious treats, like churros, popcorn, and Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzels. You can also enjoy a variety of cuisines from around the world at the park’s many restaurants and snack stands.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Disneyland Park, whether you’re visiting for a day or spending the whole weekend. The park is easily accessible from both San Diego and Los Angeles, so you can easily fit a visit into your itinerary. Just be sure to plan ahead and get your tickets in advance to avoid the crowds and long queues.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, Disneyland Park is a perfect destination that will provide you with hours of fun, excitement, and unforgettable memories. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Disneyland Park today!

12 Exciting Things to Do in Coppell

If you are planning a trip between San Diego and Los Angeles, one of the must-visit attractions is Universal Studios Hollywood. Located just north of Los Angeles in the city of Universal City, this world-renowned theme park offers a unique entertainment experience that combines rides, shows, and movie magic.

Visitors to Universal Studios Hollywood can explore several sections of the park, each with its own theme and attractions. The Lower Lot features adrenaline-pumping rides such as the Jurassic World ride, the Transformers: The Ride-3D, and The Mummy roller coaster. In the upper lot, you can find the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, a magical land that brings the books and movies to life.

You can also take a tram tour that takes you behind the scenes of many of your favorite movies and television shows. The tour showcases the famous Universal Studios backlot, where you’ll see sets from hit shows like The Good Place and Superstore, as well as the iconic streets of Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives.

Another highlight of Universal Studios Hollywood is the Waterworld stunt show, based on the post-apocalyptic action film. It features death-defying stunts, explosions, and high-octane action, making it one of the most popular shows in the park. You can also catch live performances from some of your favorite characters, such as The Simpsons and Shrek, along with street performers and musicians.

Besides the rides and attractions, Universal Studios Hollywood is also home to several restaurants and food options, including some with themed menus. You can grab a butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, try some Minion-inspired treats at the Despicable Me Minion Cafe, or have a classic Hollywood burger at Hollywood & Dine.

When planning your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, it's important to note that the park can get crowded, especially during peak seasons such as summer and holidays. To save time and skip the lines, you can purchase tickets online in advance or upgrade to the Express Pass, which allows you to skip the regular lines on many popular rides and attractions.

In conclusion, Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the top things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles. With its thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and behind-the-scenes tours, it offers an exciting and unforgettable entertainment experience for all ages. Whether you're a movie buff, a theme park enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day out, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit attraction in Southern California.

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If you're planning a road trip between San Diego and Los Angeles, you'll find plenty of things to see and do along the way. One of the highlights of the trip is the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which sits at the end of Route 66 and is one of the most famous landmarks in Southern California.

The Santa Monica Pier boasts a rich history that dates back to 1909, when it was built as a municipal pier to attract tourists to the beachfront town. Today, the pier is a popular attraction for both locals and visitors alike, with a range of entertainment options and things to see and do.

One of the top draws for visitors is the Pacific Park amusement park, which features a wide variety of attractions, including a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and other rides. The park also has plenty of food and souvenir vendors, as well as breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding area.

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, the pier also has several restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues to explore. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many seafood stands, or enjoy a live performance at the pier's famous Carousel Building, which houses a historic carousel and other attractions.

Beyond the pier, Santa Monica has plenty of other attractions to see and explore. Take a stroll along the famous Third Street Promenade, where you'll find plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Or head to the beach to soak up some sun and enjoy the surf and sand.

In conclusion, the Santa Monica Pier is a must-see attraction on any road trip between San Diego and Los Angeles. Whether you're looking for high-energy thrills or a more relaxed beachfront experience, the pier and the surrounding area have something for everyone. So be sure to add it to your itinerary and make some unforgettable memories on your journey through Southern California.

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If you're looking for things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, be sure to add the Griffith Observatory to your must-see list. Located in Los Angeles, this iconic observatory offers visitors an opportunity to explore the wonders of space and experience breathtaking views of the city.

The Griffith Observatory sits atop a hill overlooking Los Angeles, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline. Visitors can take a stroll through the observatory's exhibits, which explore the history of space exploration, the science behind astronomy, and the constellations in the sky. The observatory also has a planetarium which offers shows throughout the day, giving visitors a chance to experience the wonders of the universe in an immersive setting.

One of the most popular activities at the Griffith Observatory is stargazing through the Zeiss telescope. This state-of-the-art instrument allows visitors to observe celestial objects such as planets, stars, galaxies, and nebulae. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or just looking to get a glimpse of the night sky, the Zeiss telescope provides a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Griffith Observatory also offers a range of educational programs and events for both children and adults. Visitors can attend lectures and discussions on a variety of topics related to space exploration and astronomy. The observatory also hosts special events throughout the year, such as star parties and movie screenings, allowing visitors to engage with the fascinating world of space in new and exciting ways.

Beyond its educational offerings, the Griffith Observatory's location in Los Angeles makes it an excellent stopping point for other attractions in the area. Visitors can easily explore the nearby Hollywood Walk of Fame or take a drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway. The observatory is also a popular spot for taking a hike through the hills and experiencing the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

In short, the Griffith Observatory offers visitors a unique experience that combines education, entertainment, and awe-inspiring views. Whether you're a space enthusiast or just looking for a memorable activity between San Diego and Los Angeles, be sure to add the Griffith Observatory to your itinerary.

13 Exciting Things to Do in Alexandria Bay This Weekend

Frequently asked questions.

There are several popular beaches along the coastline between San Diego and Los Angeles, including Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and La Jolla Cove.

Yes, there are several amusement parks and theme parks located between San Diego and Los Angeles, including Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, LEGOLAND California, and SeaWorld San Diego.

Some of the most scenic routes to drive between San Diego and Los Angeles include the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1), the Scenic 101 Highway, and the La Jolla Cove Drive. These routes offer beautiful views of the coastline and scenic landscapes along the way.

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Bae Area and Beyond

Los Angeles vs San Diego: Which City Is Better?

Los Angeles vs. San Diego; which one is better? Los Angeles and San Diego are two of the world’s most sought-after living and vacation destinations, and they are also incredibly different despite their proximity.

While both are coastal cities that boast a Southern California climate, San Diego is very much known for its reputation as a laid-back beach city. In contrast, Los Angeles is known as the fast-paced entertainment capital of the world.

We have compiled information on some of the most important factors to weigh when deciding which city is a better fit for you. As you read ahead, you will find that each city is very much suited to different residents and that the “better city” is up to you to decide.

Deciding between Los Angeles vs. San Diego? Here are the best tours, hotels, and car rentals in each city: 

📸 Best Tours In San Diego:

• Luxury Catamaran Sailing Charter of San Diego (for up to 12 people!)
• Premium Valle de Guadalupe Wine and Food Tour (all-inclusive)
• San Diego Whale Watching Cruise (check out the 2 guarantees!)

📸 Best Tours In Los Angeles:

• Los Angeles Highlights Tour (skip LA traffic with a private driver)
• Experience Helicopter Attractions of Los Angeles (spot celebrity homes!)
• Universal Studios Hollywood – Express Pass (We saved 6 hours of waiting!)

😴 Best Hotels In Each City:

• Los Angeles: The Charlie West Hollywood (stay in Charlie Chaplin’s home!)
• San Diego: Hotel Marisol Coronado (5-min walk to Coronado Beach)

🚘 Best Car Rental: DiscoverCars (save up to 70%)

Table Of Contents

Cost Of Living

According to costofliving.org , the overall cost of living in Los Angeles is 2% higher than in San Diego.

While the average cost of rent in San Diego comes in as more expensive ($1,866 in San Diego versus $1,817 in Los Angeles per person), other factors such as transportation and food expenses flip the scales for both individuals and families living in each city.

There is a significant difference in population between the cities, with Los Angeles coming in at about 3.98 Million people versus San Diego’s 1.39 Million residents.

Los Angeles vs San Diego

Both cities are prime examples of the benefits of Southern California living with easily beautiful weather, accessible beaches, natural parks, professional sports facilities, world-class restaurants and bars, world-famous music venues and so much more.

Not to mention, both are within several hours of mountain ranges that see snow for those interested in hitting the slopes. 

While San Diego has numerous amazing performance centers and music venues, it is hard to compare to Los Angeles’s quantity of options being the home of Hollywood and the dream destination of performers throughout the world. Because of this, those interested in film or music may find themselves at home in LA.

One more thing that you are sure to find more of in a visit to LA is forest land. While San Diego has tons of protected and natural land, it is typically made up of desert and chaparral ecosystems.

These are highly diverse and beautiful wildlands, but to many, the Angeles National Forest offers unique draws to those hoping to camp and hike in the shade of beautiful, large trees. 

Lodging 

Both San Diego and LA have a great number of lodging options at all price points. Los Angeles does have a higher number of places to stay, but this is expected of a larger city.

Both also have a great selection of unique and eclectic stays and boutique hotels. When it comes to lodging, I believe that the cities are rather equal.

Related: 9 Best Christmas Hotels In Southern California

Both cities are home to some of the most exciting nightlife that the US has to offer. Despite this, there are some notable differences.

San Diego offers somewhat of a more casual nightlife experience. While there are several clubs found in the city, you will mostly find what are considered bars. San Diego also has a huge number of speakeasies and is actually well known for this.

While LA is still home to countless bars and cocktail lounges, it is also home to a much higher quantity of clubs with a higher profile than those found in San Diego. If you are looking to party with celebrities, LA is the right place to be.

Being large cities, both Los Angeles and San Diego offer a wide array of culinary options. Both are home to diverse mixtures of cultures that are reflected through food.

San Diego, being so close to Mexico, is unbeatable regarding authentic Mexican food options in the US. Once visitors experience this aspect of San Diego, they will surely be disappointed anywhere else.

Los Angeles, however, is home to a larger and more diverse immigrant population, which results in a wider variety of authentic food from different cultures.

Despite this difference, you can’t really go wrong in either city when it comes to enjoying unique and constantly changing food options.

Public Transportation

Livingcost.org reports monthly public transportation passes and gas prices are higher in Los Angeles, while individual public transportation tickets and taxis are pricier in San Diego. 

It is reported that overall transportation prices in LA are 37.5% higher, while both are well above the national average.

Because San Diego is widely known as a commuter city where most residents have cars to get around, Los Angeles has much more money going into its public transportation, particularly its metro rail system.

Despite this, San Diego still offers a significant number of trolleys, buses, and trains that residents use to traverse the city. 

Los Angeles’s high concentration of homelessness can make public transportation a bit trickier, as those lacking shelter may look to trains, buses, and their stations.

Many LA residents express concern over the trash and even human waste left behind, causing major sanitation issues. Those struggling with drug addiction or mental illness can also cause safety concerns for passengers.

San Diego is well known for its low levels of violent crime , ranking as the lowest rate of the biggest 30 cities in the US in 2018. LA, meanwhile, sees about twice this many violent crimes per capita. 

While both cities see high marks for their healthcare, San Diego does come in on top. San Diego’s Health Care system Index was 70.50, while that of LA was 61.58 in 2022.

Similar results were seen when polls were taken to track Satisfaction with Cost in each city. San Diego came in at 81.69, while LA saw a score of 37.39.

Quality of Life

There is a ton of factors that go into the quality of life in any given city. Here are a few of our most notable.

Many prefer San Diego’s low-key vibe over Los Angeles’s faster-paced lifestyle. San Diego has even been ranked as the friendliest city in America and the friendliest city for the LGBTQ+ community .

While having friendly and inclusive neighbors are not always the most critical factor, they are generally considered a huge component to most in evaluating the quality of life, especially for minorities. 

Overall air quality can be a huge factor in assessing their quality of life. San Diego’s air quality is ranked significantly higher as “good,” while Los Angeles’s air quality is categorized as “moderate.”

While this may not be a deciding factor to some, those with asthma or respiratory illnesses may weigh air quality heavily. 

Maybe the most crucial factor to consider when comparing the two cities is traffic and time spent getting where you need to go. Traveling a distance that would take 15 minutes by car in San Diego can often take well over an hour due to traffic in LA.

Neither city is walkable, and both require a car or public transportation for most. Living close to both one’s place of work and necessary amenities is often not an option for those on a budget.

If you need to rent a car, here’s all you need to know about renting a car in San Diego or Los Angeles .

Where to Stay In Los Angeles vs. San Diego

Los Angeles and San Diego have a variety of accommodations: hotels, resorts, campgrounds and more. Here’s the best option in each city:

Best place to stay in Los Angeles:  The Charlie West Hollywood

Best place to stay in San Diego:  Hotel Marisol Coronado

Frequently Asked Questions: Los Angeles vs. San Diego

Is Los Angeles or San Diego more expensive?

While some individual factors, such as utilities or groceries, may vary, Los Angeles is more expensive to visit and live in. 

Are the beaches in San Diego better than in Los Angeles?

Despite San Diego’s reputation as a beach city, Los Angeles really does offer just as much in terms of beaches throughout Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, and other coastal neighborhoods.

While Venice is not known for having high-quality beaches, those of Santa Monica and Malibu are beautiful and very comparable to the popular beaches of San Diego (La Jolla, Windansea, Carlsbad, etc.).

Is Los Angeles or San Diego better for a family vacation?

With a lower violent crime rate, an emphasis on more family-friendly activities, and an overall slower pace of life, San Diego is the more ideal city for those traveling with children. 

Is it better to move to San Diego or Los Angeles?

I believe that Los Angeles is the right choice for those pursuing an exciting, fast-paced lifestyle full of music, art, and nightlife. Meanwhile, San Diego is the place to be for those looking for a beachy and mellow lifestyle in a less densely populated area.

Final Thoughts: Los Angeles vs. San Diego

As a Southern California resident who has spent considerable time in both cities, I can confidently say that each city is geared toward totally different residents and their wants and needs. 

Los Angeles is the city of dreams to so many and offers an exciting and constantly changing environment.

San Diego is a true beach city, emulating this throughout its slowed-down and light-hearted culture.

I believe that Lost Angeles is often magnetic to the young, single, and hungry for life, while San Diego is a utopia for those looking to raise families or spend their days peacefully.

Which would you prefer?

Living in the San Francisco Bay Area, Shreeyeh Rajan is the founder of Bae Area and Beyond, a California blog with over 200,000 annual readers and featured in more than 79 sites.

With a love for California that runs deep, Shreeyeh and her husband explore the Golden State every chance they get, from the beaches in Santa Cruz to the hiking trails of Yosemite.

Through her blog, Shreeyeh hopes to inspire readers to fall in love with California just like she did.

LA to San Diego Drive: 15 Great Stops to Make Along the Coast

Planning a trip to California soon and interested in driving from Los Angeles to San Diego? Well, that is an absolutely excellent decision, because this route is filled with dozens of beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and lots of incredible things to do! I’ve put together this LA to San Diego drive/road trip itinerary, and it’ll go over what I think are all the best places to stop along the way! 

Southern California is truly one of the most enchanting places in the U.S.A, and I guarantee that if you stop in all of these places between LA and San Diego, you’ll be looking up real estate, and will soon be planning a move to California! 

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, or on an extended road trip – grab yourself some In-N-Out, and fall in love with California every night while watching the sunset every night! This LA to San Diego drive has every place stop you should make for the ultimate California experience!

The Ultimate LA to San Diego Drive Road Trip

How Far is San Diego from Los Angeles?

There is only about 120 miles between San Diego and LA, and without traffic will take around two hours. With that being said, if you decide to drive straight from one city to the next, you’ll be missing out on SO many incredible destinations along the way.

There are also bus and train options to get from LA to San Diego, but I definitely think the best way to travel from one city to the next is to have a car and enjoy an incredible drive!

Unusual cloudy days on the La to San Diego Drive

Is it a nice drive from LA to San Diego?

Absolutely YES! While the most the direct path is taking “The 5” freeway, but I’d highly recommend taking an extra couple days and enjoy a scenic road trip along California’s iconic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

You’ll enjoy stunning coastal views, charming towns, and plenty of incredible things to do to keep you busy for days! 

LA to San Diego Road Trip Overview

Before we dive into each of these major cities, here’s a quick look at all the great stops on the LA to San Diego Drive:

• Santa Monica
• Venice Beach/ Marina Del Ray
• Manhattan Beach
• Huntington Beach
• Newport Beach
• Laguna Beach
• San Clemente State Beach
• Encinitas/ Cardiff By The Sea
• Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve & Golf Course
• Pacific Beach

15 Best Stops along the LA To San Diego Road Trip

Alright, let’s discuss in detail a bit more on each destination including things to do, where you should stay if you decide to spend some extra time there, and some other fun recommended travel tips! I’ve also included a few fun travel videos for some of the stops, so be sure to watch the YouTube clips for trip inspiration!

1. Santa Monica 

This journey begins in one of LA’s most famous and iconic cities, Santa Monica! It’s actually one of my favorite beachside destinations in California, and you could spend several days here enjoying all the world-class restaurants, rooftop bars, and unbeatable west coast sunsets. 

Make sure you take a walk through the Santa Monica pier, take a ride on the roller coaster at Pacific Park, relax on the soft sandy beach, get some exercise by renting a bike and riding along its miles of bike paths, and take a stroll along Ocean avenue.

I’d also recommend you experience the stunning view of the ocean and mountains from Palisades park, graze through the local Santa Monica Farmers Market (open on Saturday/Sunday only), and do some shopping through the Third Street promenade! Santa Monica is simply the perfect way to start your LA to San Diego road trip!

Where to Stay in Santa Monica:

The Garden Hide-Away | 5 Star Santa Monica FANTASTIC

This clean and bright Santa Monica bungalow has an incredible overall guest score from hundreds of happy guests. It’s just a short walk down to LA’s famous beach and its many attractions, and is one of the best value stays in the area!

Santa Monica is the best way to start the Los Angeles to San Diego drive

2. Venice Beach & Marina Del Ray 

Located just a few miles south of Santa Monica, you’ll find the colorful suburbs of Venice & Marina Del Ray. You could easily rent a bike in Santa Monica, and ride down along the well-paved path down here!  

Whether you’re looking for a funky souvenir, a fresh tattoo, or just want to watch the lively street performers, definitely make a stop through Venice beach! Take some photos of the muscle men at the iconic muscle beach, watch the talented skateboarders in the skate park, and enjoy a meal at one of the foodie hotspots in the area!

While you’re in the Venice area, make sure you take a stroll or bike ride through the beautiful canals and bridges found in Marina Del Ray!  It’s a completely charming coastal community, and in 1965,  became the largest man-made, small-craft harbor in the country. Enjoy its laidback atmosphere, colorful sunsets, and partake in one of the popular watersport activities. It’s another must-visit for California visitors, and would be a highlight of your Los Angeles to San Diego road trip!

Where to Stay in Venice Beach / Marina Del Ray:

Venice Canals Bungalow~Sexy Deck, Venice Beach, Pier & Boardwalk

This luxurious VRBO located in Venice Canals is just blocks from the famous beach and its many visitor-friendly attractions, and you’ll fall in love with with the peaceful views from this quaint vacation rental.

Image via @adamhahn

3. Manhattan Beach

I recently visited Manhattan Beach for the first time (after living in Southern California for 20+ years), and I completely fell in love with it! It’s got a fun pier to watch the surfers from, tons of volleyball courts to play a quick game, and beautiful beachfront properties to dream about owning one day.  

There’s also a really nice downtown district filled with many family-owned restaurants, boutique fashion shops, and well-maintained paths filled with colorful flowers.  

Photographers will love the long-exposure shots you can get under the Manhattan beach pier, families will love exploring the Sand Dunes or a stroll through Live Oak  Park, and art fans will be ecstatic about the various galleries in the area! If you’re looking for fun and unique places to stop on the way to San Diego, I’d highly recommend checking out Manhattan Beach if you got the time!

Where to Stay in Manhattan Beach:

Designer Beach Studio In Manhattan Beach, Amazing Location! Steps to Beach!

This pretty Manhattan Beach studio abode is fresh, unique and comfortable. Enjoy warm California days with beach towels and chairs provided!

4. Long Beach

“With so much drama in the L-B-C , It’s kinda hard bein Snoop D-O-double-G. But I, somehow, some way. Keep comin up with funky ass shit like every single day”  —  Snoop Dogg  

One of the main destinations you simply can’t miss along this Los Angeles to San Diego drive is Long Beach, California. 

“ Long Beach is one giant playground located right in the heart of Southern California. Here you can experience it all from a deep-sea adventure at the Aquarium of the Pacific right on the bay and a voyage in time aboard the historic Queen Mary to lively guided tours through downtown and the colorful East Village.”

I’d recommend taking a bike ride along the beach, taking a ferry over to Catalina Island for a day-trip, and taking a Whales & Dolphins watching cruise! You could easily spend 2-3 days soaking up everything Long Beach has to offer, as it’s as one the most popular and lively places on this Los Angeles to San Diego drive!

Where to Stay in Long Beach:

1st Floor Beachfront Apartment with Ocean Views & Walking Distance to Everything

This charming Long Beach apartment features stylish interiors and an unbeatable location. You’ll be just seconds on foot to the beach, downtown Long Beach, shops, restaurants and the buzzing local entertainment district. 

5. Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach is one of the best cities between LA and San Diego!

Just about twenty minutes down the Pacific Coast Highway from Long Beach, you’ll find the lively suburb of Huntington Beach! This is one of the two main beaches I grew up going to and an outstanding place to spend an afternoon or even a couple of days!

It’s home to one of the longest piers on the West Coast of California (measure 1,850 feet in length), has lots of beach parking across the street (or pay $10 to park in the lot), and a vibrant nightlife scene! 

I’d recommend doing some drinking in Huntington Beach, as it’s filled with awesome bars, breweries, distilleries, lounges, and nightclubs.  

Watch the sunset while you stroll along the Huntington Beach pier, do some shopping along the buzzing Main Street, and be sure to hit some waves, as HB is known as “Surf City”!

Where to Stay in Huntington Beach:

Classic & Affordable Beach Cottage! A Short & Easy Walk To The Sand!

This five-star Huntington Beach surf cottage is spacious, well-situated and stylish. You’ll just staying just minutes from Huntington Beach, Sunset Beach and many other leading local coastal hubs. 

6. Newport Beach

Ahh, Newport Beach, one of the shining stars in Orange County! It’s one of California’s most iconic beach cities and comes complete with a massive stretch of beautiful soft sand, two different piers, and lots of fun bars, restaurants, and events to keep just about anyone entertained.

You could stop into the mega-shopping mall, “ Fashion Island “, grab a shake on Ruby’s Diner on the Balboa pier, or take a bike around through the tiny alleyways along the Balboa peninsula. 

I’d also recommend a quick jaunt down through the Crystal Cove State Park along PCH, which is one of “Orange County’s largest remaining examples of open space and natural seashore. It features 3.2 miles of beach, 2,400 acres of backcountry wilderness and an offshore underwater area. The park also features the federally listed Historic District, an enclave of 46 vintage rustic coastal cottages originally built as a seaside colony in the 1930’s & 40’s and nestled around the mouth of Los Trancos Creek.” 

There’s also a buzzing nightlife scene in Newport, as well as its inland counterpart of Costa Mesa! It’d be a fantastic place to stop for a meal or sightseeing when you drive from LA to San Diego!

Where to Stay in Newport Beach:

Clean Cottage for 2, Great Location! Large Patio, AIR, WiFi, Grill

This top-rated Newport Beach VRBO boasts an incredible location just steps from the beach, beautiful interior, and comfortable bedding for a superb stay!

7. Laguna Beach

Continuing down through Orange County along the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ll arrive at the iconic Laguna Beach, which is home to some of the most stunning beaches, coastlines, and houses in the state! It might just be the most jaw-dropping stop on the scenic drive from San Diego to Los Angeles!

Now, there is A LOT to do in the Laguna beach area, but here are few of my recommendations!

• Take a stroll through Heisner Park
• Visit Main Beach
• Visit 1000 Steps Beach During Sunset 
• Explore the Tide Pools
• Ride the Free Trolley through town
• Check out Treasure Island 

If you find yourself with several days in Laguna, I’d recommend checking out this article for the TOP 100 THINGS TO DO IN LAGUNA BEACH “, as it’s filled with epic ideas, activities, and attractions!

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach:

In the heart of Laguna Beach! Walk Everywhere!! Location! 5 star

This stunning one bedroom beachfront apartment is light, fresh and oozes Laguna Beach vibes. Perfect for a cozy seaside getaway, the pad boasts views from its front patio, and is just minutes walk from the heart of downtown Laguna Beach and to Main Beach.

8. Dana Point 

So my cousins have been living down in Dana Point for nearly 15 years, and it’s definitely one of the better areas in Orange County!  You can soak up the sun at one of its many gorgeous beaches, experience marine life on one of the many ocean cruises, or go boat shopping through the wondrous Dana Point harbor.  

If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, stop in the Dana Point Farmer’s Market for some fresh produce and local healthy snacks, fruits, veggies, nuts, and freshly baked bread!  

If there’s one thing you gotta do while you’re in Dana Point, it’s the quick 0.2 mile Bluff Top walking trail, which provides an amazing panoramic view of the harbor! This could be a fun and easy stop when Driving from LA to San Diego  

Where to stay in Dana Point:

Newly Remodeled Dana Point Beach Getaway

Affordable, fun, and perfectly located in Dana Point – you’ll love this bedroom condo and exploring all the nearby attractions!

Check out this awesome Youtube Video for a bit more Dana point travel inspiration!

9. San Clemente State Beach

Are you interested in doing any beach camping? Well, this is exactly where you should go in Southern California! But even if you don’t, it’s still worth a visit 

San Clemente is a gorgeous mile-long beach that is popular for swimming, bodysurfing, skimboarding, and of course, surfing! 

Check out the San Clemente State Beach website  for more information, opening hours, and making a beach camping reservation!  

Where to Stay in San Clemente:

San Clemente’s Most Popular Vacation Rental – Check out our reviews!

The name speaks for itself! This stylish condo is just steps from the beach, restaurants, bars and shopping in the heart of San Clemente, California. 

10. Oceanside

Welcome to Oceanside, the northernmost city in San Diego County! Located right along the Pacific Ocean, you will find over six miles of stunning beaches, wonderful attractions, a lively boardwalk, and the longest wooden  pier  on the California coast, measuring at 1941 feet in length ( which 1/3 of a mile)!

I’d suggest checking out the most popular Harbor Beach, take a visit through the Beach House winery, and take a gander through the Oceanside Museum Of Art!  

If you’ve got a decent travel budget, than I’d look into chartering a boat, so you can sail up and down the California coast for a few hours!   

Where to stay in Oceanside:

1 Bedroom With 2 Queen Beds Beautiful New Remodel With Harbor View From Balcony

One of Oceanside’s most in-demand and highly-rated vacation rentals, this one bedroom beachfront condo is stylish and high-end. Its patio boasts views over Oceanside Harbor and the beach is right at your fingertips. 

11. Carlsbad

After a short drive down from Oceanside, you’ll quickly enter the small town of Carlsbad, but it’s list of attractions is quite massive! The one destination that tops any list is a visit to the epic LEGOLAND California Resort. If that doesn’t interest you, then instead book yourself a ticket to the Sea Life Aquarium.

Another important attraction in Carlsbad is the lovely Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch! It’a “fifty-acre dazzling rainbow of beautiful ranunculus flowers set on a hillside overlooking the striking Carlsbad, California coastline. The outdoor space is idyllic for planning weddings, events and corporate gatherings held among the lush gardens, or you may choose to nestle indoors in our 200-seat Paul Ecke Jr. Barn for special occasions!”

Where to Stay in Carlsbad:

Gorgeously Remodeled Carlsbad Beach Bungalow

This sylish one bedroom Carlsbad bungalow is just steps from beach and Carlsbad’s many restaurants, bars and of course – LEGOLAND! The stylish space is one of the best in town, and perfect for a Carlsbad getaway on your road trip!

12. Encinitas & Cardiff By The Sea

Continuing down the coast, you’ll find yourself in the charming city of Encinitas, which is Spanish for “hills of live oaks”. It’s another quirky beachside area, extremely popular for surfers, families, and beach fun! 

Make sure you take a stroll along the popular “Moonlight Beach”, explore the San Elijo Lagoon State Marine Conservation Area, and get lost among in San Diego Botanic Gardens!  

13. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve & Golf Course

While Torrey Pines might be located within San Diego city limits, it somehow remains one of the wildest area of land on the Southern California coastline! Visiting here is like taking a time machine back, and you’ll experience what it looked like centuries ago!  Complete with the maritime chaparral, the rare Torrey pine, miles of pristine beaches, and a lagoon that is a crucial element to migrating bird species! It’s truly a must-visit, with it’s coastline filled pine trees,, sandstone canyons, and a wide variety of dirt hiking trails overlooking the ocean!

Torrey Pines is also home to California’s most pristine and famous golf course, but any fan of golf is already aware of that little tidbit!  Head over to the Torres Pine Golf Course website for reservations, prices, and more info!

14. La Jolla Cove

If I ever move back to California, I’d personally love to find myself an apartment or house in the La Jolla  district in San Diego!  With its selection of the mesmerizing beaches, unbeatable coastline views, and charming city center, it’s such a fantastic place to spend a good amount of time!

La Jolla is a small beachfront city located only about twenty minutes north from downtown San Diego, and is truly a gem! Complete with so many awesome eateries (with rooftop terraces overlooking the beach & sunsets), nearly perfect weather year-round, and some of the best snorkeling and scuba-diving in Southern California!  

There’s a really fantastic walking trail filled with different viewpoints and photo opportunities, and you definitely have to experience La Jolla Cove for yourself!

15. Pacific Beach

Last, but certainly not least, Pacific Beach is the PLACE TO BE once you’ve arrived in San Diego. This suburb is basically the “epitome” of Southern California culture, and you will fall in love with everything this area has to offer! With a wide variety of bars and restaurants lining the beach, beautiful sunsets every night, and a welcoming atmosphere- you’ll find yourself wanting to stay in “PB” as long as possible!

Check out this awesome article by my fellow blogger titled “ 25 Things To Do In Pacific Beach San Diego ” for more inspiration and information!  

Do I need to anything to this LA to San Diego Drive Itinerary?

Being a so-cal native, I could probably add at least a dozen more places that I think would be worth a visit, but I wanted to keep it to 15. If you think I need to add any specific destination along the Pacific Coast Highway, please do let me know! I’d also love to hear of your favorite restaurants and bars in the area, as I plan on completing this drive a lot in the coming months, and would love some recommendations!

Planning a Trip To California?

As a native Californian, I make it a point to make sure I create a lot of top California content! From NoCal to SoCal and everywhere else in between, this is the most up-to-the-minute list of my California blogs, guides and lists!

• Top 20 San Diego Music Festivals
• THE 120+ BEST CALIFORNIA QUOTES THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO HEAD OUT WEST
• THE 15 BEST AIRBNB MONTEREY RENTALS FOR A CALIFORNIA SEASIDE ESCAPE
• EDM Festivals | The 20 Best Electronic Music Festivals in the USA
• 18 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNBS IN SANTA BARBARA FOR THE PERFECT CALIFORNIA GETAWAY
• 20 COOLEST & BEST AIRBNBS IN SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA | SAN DIEGO AIRBNB GUIDE
• 10 BEST DESTINATIONS FOR GLAMPING IN BIG SUR, CALIFORNIA | BIG SUR GLAMPING GUIDE
• 20 BEST AIRBNBS IN LOS ANGELES – THE HILLS, THE CITY & THE BEACH
• 14 JAW-DROPPING AIRBNB LA JOLLA VACATION RENTALS
• 37 CALIFORNIA MUSIC FESTIVALS THAT’LL KEEP YOU DANCING ALL YEAR LONG
• 29 GORGEOUS GLAMPING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA PLACES YOU NEED TO EXPERIENCE
• 15 BEST AIRBNB SAN LUIS OBISPO RENTALS FOR A CALIFORNIA CENTRAL COAST RETREAT
• 18 BEST AIRBNBS IN BIG BEAR, CALIFORNIA | BIG BEAR AIRBNB CABINS ?⛰️
• 17 DREAMY GLAMPING BAY AREA & NORTHERN CALIFORNIA DESTINATIONS
• 14 BEST AIRBNB FRESNO VACATION RENTALS FOR A TASTE OF CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
• 95+ BEST LOS ANGELES QUOTES | FUNNY, MOVIES, LYRICS & BOOKS + MORE!
• 17 BEST AIRBNB YOSEMITE RENTALS FOR AN ESCAPE TO THE CALIFORNIA WILDERNESS
• 16 BEST AIRBNB LAGUNA BEACH RENTALS FOR A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA GETAWAY

Thanks for reading my LA to San Diego Drive Itinerary!

Share this la to san diego guide with your travel squad.

Hi Dave. Thanks for the shoutout. As a SoCal native (grew up in HB, moved to La Jolla to go to UCSD originally) I completely agree that these are the stops to make. Cheers!

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San Diego vs. Los Angeles: Where Should You Move? | Pros & Cons 2022

Should you move to San Diego or Los Angeles? If you’re making the big move out west, the choice can be daunting. Both San Diego and Los Angeles beautiful, with sunny weather , gorgeous coastline and lots of fun things to do. Both are expensive, but have stunning homes for people who can afford them. And both are meccas of industry with incredible work opportunities.

As if it wasn’t hard enough to decide, Los Angelinos and San Diegans are fiercely loyal to their hometowns, so it’s tough to get an unbiased view of each city from the residents. Ask an LA native, and they’ll tell you that San Diego is too slow and too small, make a comment about how it’s a tourist trap, and remind you how amazing the food is in LA. Go to a San Diego neighborhood, and they’ll remind you of LA’s horrible smog in the 50’s and 60’s, and mutter on about the traffic and how overcrowded LA is with wannabe actors/writers/directors.

In this guide to choosing between living in San Diego or Los Angeles, we’ll take you through some pros and cons of each city, so you can see which one better fits your situation. We’ll also cover some important questions to ask yourself before making your choice. No matter which city you end up moving to, we’re confident you’ll find the perfect place for you.

Pros and Cons of Living in San Diego

San diego pros.

What are the best parts of living in San Diego? Other than the coastline and the incredible weather, this close to the Mexican border, you can bet you’ll find some amazing mexican restaurants. From taco trucks with sidewalk-blocking lines, to brick-and-mortar restaurants like Las Cuatro Milpas and Super Cocina San Diego can always satisfy your need for margaritas and tacos.

San Diego is also the Craft Beer Capital of America . More than 150 breweries call San Diego home, making everything from West-Coast Style IPAs to epic lagers and seasonal flavors like the ever-popular summer shandies. If you love beer, you’ll always have friends in San Diego.

San Diego’s surfer lifestyle is another “pro” for this SoCal city. Unlike the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, San Diegans like to take things a bit slower. It’s not that we aren’t ambitious– actually, the city is a leader in tech and the biosciences. But people moving to San Diego will quickly notice that this city doesn’t get faxed by much.

San Diego Cons

Nowhere is perfect, even if San Diegans think their city comes close. San Diego is home to some of the world’s top beaches, the famous San Diego Zoo , and tons of other tourist attractions, which means that during tourist season, the city can quickly get overrun by East Coasters looking to get a tan before heading back to the snow. Annually, more than 32 million people come to visit San Diego , so if you choose to live here, be prepared.

Another disadvantage is the cost of living in San Diego . The median home value in San Diego is $526,900, although upwards of 12% of homes in San Diego sell for over $1 Million. Property taxes here are also high, with most people spending more than $3,000 per year on taxes alone. Plus, since San Diego doesn’t have a significant public transport system, nearly everyone here owns at least one car and drives at least 20 minutes to get to work.

Pros and Cons of Living in Los Angeles

Los angeles pros.

One of the best things about LA is LAX. The Los Angeles International Airport simply can’t be beat. It’s one of the top airports in the country , flying over 84.5 Million people in 2017 alone. Yes, San Diego has an airport two, but the single runway San Diego International offers fewer flights at higher rates, prompting even native San Diegans to trek to LA for their travels.

If you’re a serious go-getter, you’ll love the fast pace of LA. Los Angelinos are hustlers, creating a competitive atmosphere that’s perfect for the nation’s most ambitious. And we aren’t just talking about film and entertainment jobs, either. LA is a hub for technology startups, and you’ll see lots of digital nomads building their own brands online while sitting in any cafe in Los Angeles.

Cons of Living in Los Angeles

LA traffic is world-famous, and not in a good way. Unlike the other stars of Hollywood, traffic here sucks, and we wish it would just go away. No matter where you’re going, you have to add on time for general congestion, which is only made worse by streets that are closed for filming, presidential motorcades or construction.

Also, you’ll need to read parking signs carefully when you’re living in Los Angeles . Street parking in LA is heavily regulated and complicated, and it seems like every street only allows parking on alternate Tuesdays from 3-5AM, except for bank holidays. The good news? You can find valet at everywhere from high-class dining venues to Denny’s, but don’t forget to tip.

Another Los Angeles con is the penchant for natural disasters. Because of its location along California fault lines, Los Angeles tends to get several significant earthquakes a year, ranging from mild shakes to richter scale events that bring down homes and offices. Los Angeles also suffers from yearly wildfires, which can be devastating for homeowners and dangerous for folks living in the affected areas.

How to Choose Between San Diego and Los Angeles

If you’re still stuck between a sunny place and another sunny place, we get it! Choosing a new city to live in is hard to matter where you go, and these two monoliths of culture, diversity and economic growth are both amazing choices. So when you’re choosing between moving to San Diego and Los Angeles, consider these few questions:

What’s Your Style?

Are you a hustler or a surfer? If you love hitting the pavement and competing with the best of the best, LA is the place for you. But if you enjoy a laid-back lifestyle where flip-flops and shorts are the norm, you may be more suited for San Diego.

Do You Want a Big or Small City?

Okay, San Diego isn’t really “small”, but when compared with LA, it is! The actually city/county of Los Angeles covers 500 square miles of sprawling neighborhoods. In comparison, San Diego only spans 372 square miles. If you love cities like Boston and New York, LA is probably right up your alley. If you like a small-town vibe and a close-knit community, San Diego is the better choice.

What Industry Do You Work In?

If you’re in entertainment, the choice is easy. Competition may be stiff in Los Angeles, but it’s called the “City of Dreams” for a reason, and you won’t find the same concentration of film and TV jobs anywhere else in the U.S. Fashion retailers and aerospace engineering are also thriving LA industries. In contrast, the top industries in San Diego are technology startups and hospitality. Biosciences are big in both cities, though San Diego boasts a larger diversity of companies. And if you’re interested in entering the armed forces, San Diego’s naval and military bases are the obvious choice.

Moving to San Diego or Los Angeles

No matter which city you choose to move to, we’d like to be the first to welcome you to the “Best” Coast. If you want to learn more about California living, check out our blog posts on the Cost of Living in San Diego and the Best San Diego Neighborhoods . We can also help making your move easy with local moving services in Los Angeles and San Diego, so give us a call if you’re interested in a free moving quote !

How to Travel from San Diego to Los Angeles by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

A Southern California trip isn't complete without visiting the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles and the laidback beaches of San Diego . It's about 120 miles from city center to city center and even though the distance is short, LA's infamous traffic can turn a quick trip into a multi-hour ordeal.

If you are lucky enough to not hit any traffic, going by car is one of the quickest and easiest ways to travel from San Diego to Los Angeles. There are also several direct bus options, which is the cheapest way to travel. If you want to avoid traffic altogether, the train is a comfortable option with unbeatable views. There are also direct flights between the two cities, but you'll likely end up spending more time at the airport than you would driving.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From San Diego to Los Angeles?

With one-way Greyhound bus tickets starting at $15, going by bus is the cheapest way to get from San Diego to Los Angeles. The ride takes about three hours, depending on the time of day that you leave. While having a car has advantages for getting around, it can also be a hassle when traffic jams pop up (as they frequently do). The bus is not only affordable but also lets travelers sit back and relax throughout the journey instead of being attentive behind the wheel.

Buses leave San Diego from the Imperial Transit Center, right next to Petco Park where the San Diego Padres play. The Greyhound station in Los Angles is in the Art District of Downtown LA.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From San Diego to Los Angeles?

Flight time between San Diego and Los Angeles is about 50 minutes, and taking only time in the air into account, it's the fastest way to travel between the cities. However, after traveling to the airport, checking in, going through security, and collecting your bags, the total time is just as long as driving or taking the train, if not longer.

San Diego Airport is centrally located in the city and easy to reach from almost all parts of town. For how big the city is, San Diego Airport is relatively easy to navigate with easy and quick access between the two terminals (it's also one of only two airports in North America to achieve carbon neutrality ).

Los Angeles International Airport , or LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the country. Be sure to plan extra time when you arrive for getting out of the terminal, retrieving your baggage, and exiting the airport.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

Using a car around Southern California can turn into a driver's nightmare. At rush hour, it's one of the most congested areas in the country despite having highways that stretch across eight lanes. Even when it isn't rush hour, an unexpected accident or traffic jam can cause backups for miles. On some freeways, the carpool lanes double as toll lanes, so be sure you're familiar with the rules of the road before you get behind the wheel.

From San Diego, the most direct way to get to Los Angeles is to drive north on I-5. It passes along the coast with brief glimpses of the Pacific Ocean, through Camp Pendleton Marine Corps base and north through Orange County. Without traffic, it takes about two hours to get to Downtown Los Angeles. If you need to get to the west side of LA such as Santa Monica or the airport, you'll need to cut over to I-405 at some point.

The alternative route is to take I-15 north from San Diego, which is more inland. It adds 20 minutes to the trip if there are no traffic jams, but it may have lighter traffic than I-5 on a busy day.

How Long Is the Train Ride?

The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner takes just under three hours to travel from San Diego to Los Angeles, stopping in several Orange County cities (including Anaheim) on the way to Downtown Los Angeles. Tickets start at about $36 if you purchase them in advance, but go up in price as seats sell out.

There are two Amtrak stations in San Diego, so be sure to reserve your ticket from the one that is closest to where you're staying. All trains start at the downtown Santa Fe Station near the Gaslamp Quarter and then travel north to the Old Town Station. In Los Angeles, the trains go to Union Station in the heart of Downtown LA, from where you can take the subway to other parts of the city.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Los Angeles?

If you're going by car, you'll want to avoid being on the roads during weekday rush hour. The route passes through three separate metropolitan areas with huge populations—San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles. If you get in the car around commuting time, you'll likely hit rush hour traffic in each one. If driving late at night fits into your schedule, it's the best time to avoid traffic.

There's truly no bad time to visit Los Angeles , although each season has different advantages. Summer is hot and perfect for going to the beach, although it's also the busiest time of year and there will be lots of tourists. In winter there are far fewer crowds, and the weather is still relatively warm compared to most U.S. cities. Locals would say that April or October is the best time to visit, when the weather is sunny but mild with good air quality.

What’s the Most Scenic Route to Los Angeles?

The section of the train ride between San Diego and Orange County runs right along the beach, literally. If you were to step off the train, you would be right on the sand and could walk into the Pacific Ocean. It's a dreamlike train ride with the quintessential California backdrop. For the best views, make sure you get a seat on the west side of the train so have an ocean-view window (if you're traveling to Los Angeles and facing the front of the train, sit on the lefthand side).

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport?

For an airport as busy as LAX and a city as big as Los Angeles, there are surprisingly few options for getting out of the airport. The easiest way is to use the FlyAway bus , which has routes to Hollywood, Union Station, Long Beach, or Van Nuys. A ride on the FlyAway bus costs about $10, depending on your final destination.

You can also take a shuttle from the airport to the LAX Station of Line C (formerly the Green Line) of the Los Angeles metro. If you want to reach Downtown LA, you'll have to change trains at the Willowbrook Station to Line A (formerly the Blue Line).

Taxis or ride-hailing app vehicles are also available from the airport, but the time and cost can vary drastically based on your destination and the amount of traffic.

What Is There to Do in Los Angeles?

You could spend weeks traveling around Los Angeles and still be unable to experience it all. It's the second-largest city in the U.S. after New York City, so it's no surprise that LA is a hub for the arts, music concerts, cultural events, hot restaurants, and just about everything else. If you're a film geek, you can't leave without seeing the Hollywood sign, the stars on the Walk of Fame, or the Dolby Theater. Art lovers can see two renowned museums —the Broad and the Museum of Contemporary Art—right across the street from each other.

And if you're a foodie, it's hard not to be overwhelmed by the options . Authentic tacos, barbeque in Koreatown, or elegant farm-to-table cuisine are just an example of what you'll find in Los Angeles. At sunset, don't forget to take a trip to the Griffith Observatory for an unbeatable view of the skyline.

It's about 120 miles from Los Angeles to San Diego.

Without traffic, it takes about two hours to get to downtown Los Angeles from San Diego or vice versa. However, traffic can add significantly to that.

Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner runs between San Diego and Los Angeles, taking just under three hours and stopping in several Orange County cities (including Anaheim) on the way.

Nations Online. "United States Most Populated Cities." Retrieved June 14, 2021

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San Diego Getaway

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse? Here's when you should look up in your area

O n Monday, April 8, the sky will momentarily darken for millions of Americans in the path of totality during the 2024 solar eclipse .

This is the first total solar eclipse to pass through North America in seven years, and the next one will not be seen from the contiguous U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044 , according to NASA .

The exact time the solar eclipse will occur will vary, depending on the state and the time zone. And of course, eclipse visibility will also be dependent on Monday's weather .

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Whether you're experiencing the path of totality from home or traveling to witness it in person, here's what to expect for the exact eclipse time.

Solar eclipse 2024 live updates: See latest weather forecast, what time it hits your area

What time is the 2024 solar eclipse?

The eclipse will begin in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday, April 8 before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even if you're not in the path of totality and won't see the full eclipse, you may still see a percentage of it.

To find out exactly when the eclipse will be happening in your area, you can search by USA TODAY's database by zip code for a viewing guide.

Even if you still see a fraction of the eclipse, you can use the database to search the time, duration, peak and percentage in your area.

Here are the major cities in each state where you can expect to experience totality in the United States (note that the included times do not account for when the partial eclipse begins and ends):

• Dallas, Texas: 1:40-1:44 p.m. CDT
• Idabel, Oklahoma: 1:45-1:49 p.m. CDT
• Little Rock, Arkansas: 1:51-1:54 p.m. CDT
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: 1:56-2:00 p.m. CDT
• Paducah, Kentucky: 2-2:02 p.m. CDT
• Carbondale, Illinois: 1:59-2:03 p.m. CDT
• Evansville, Indiana: 2:02-2:05 p.m. CDT
• Cleveland, Ohio: 3:13-3:17 p.m. EDT
• Erie, Pennsylvania: 3:16-3:20 p.m. EDT
• Buffalo, New York: 3:18-3:22 p.m. EDT
• Burlington, Vermont: 3:26-3:29 p.m. EDT
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: 3:27-3:30 p.m. EDT
• Caribou, Maine: 3:32-3:34 p.m. EDT

Where is the 2024 total solar eclipse?

The eclipse begins in Mexico , and then crosses over into the U.S. through Texas. From there, the path of totality, which is approximately 115 miles wide, extends northeast, crossing through 13 states. In the U.S., totality will end in Maine, but the eclipse will eventually enter the maritime provinces of Canada.

Other major cities along the eclipse's path of totality include San Antonio and Austin, Texas; Indianapolis; and Rochester and Syracuse, New York.

Contributing: Eric Lagatta, Ramon Padilla and Karina Zaiets, USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What time is the 2024 solar eclipse? Here's when you should look up in your area

Your last-minute guide to enjoying the solar eclipse — in L.A. and beyond

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It’s finally here: the great eclipse of 2024.

The last total solar eclipse that crossed the contiguous United States was in August 2017, according to NASA. Another one won’t cross again for 20 years .

Throngs of people are traveling to the Midwest and east, where the eclipse action will be the most dramatic.

And although California won’t experience the phenomenon of totality, there is still plenty to see.

Here is a quick guide:

What is a total solar eclipse?

• Total eclipse : Midday darkness will be cast on a sliver of states, including Texas, Illinois, Ohio and New York — but there won’t be any “totality” in Los Angeles.
• Partial eclipse : In Los Angeles, about half of the sun will be visibly covered by the moon, and in San Francisco, one-third will be. The northernmost parts of the state will see the smallest amount of the eclipse, while cities to the south will experience more.

How to watch the solar eclipse from California — and avoid heartbreak if chasing ‘totality’

Though there won’t be totality in California, the state will still enjoy an impressive partial eclipse in the late morning — if the skies remain cloud-free.

April 3, 2024

Solar eclipse thrills crowds in California as it darkens swath of countryside

Millions of people across the U.S. will look up at the sky to witness a rare total solar eclipse. California won’t experience totality, but there’s still plenty to see.

April 8, 2024

World & Nation

A total eclipse is more than a spectacle. So I’m on the road to see it — again

Why would someone journey across the country to watch a total eclipse? Because it’s more than just an astronomical rarity: It may be the best show in the universe.

April 6, 2024

What time is the eclipse?

In Los Angeles, a substantial blocking of the sun will be obvious by 10:39 a.m. and will peak at 11:12 a.m. By 12:22 p.m., it will be over, according to the Griffith Observatory.

There will be a lot of events locally.

6 excellent L.A. spots to watch the awe-inspiring solar eclipse

Whether you’re a science nerd hoping to pick the brains of professional astronomers or a parent looking to teach their child about space, these six events will elevate your eclipse-viewing experience.

April 5, 2024

How to see the eclipse

• Looking up: The first rule of a solar eclipse is, don’t look at the sun without specialized eclipse glasses or a solar viewer. It’s not safe. If you look up at the eclipse without protection, it will cause severe eye injury, according to NASA .
• Using the right glasses: Here are some safety and glasses tips. When you do get a pair of glasses or viewers, make sure they’re in good condition. If the viewers are torn, scratched or punctured, discard them. If the filters are coming loose from their cardboard or plastic frames, discard them.
• Taking pictures: Even taking photos on your phone can pose risks to your eyes. Casually including the sun in a photo for a quick snapshot isn’t really a safety issue for the camera. But experts have tips.

Preparing for Monday’s solar eclipse: What you need to do to watch safely

Looking for a place to watch the solar eclipse on April 8? Events are happening around Los Angeles County. Here where to catch a glimpse, how to watch safety and where to get free solar eclipse glasses.

April 4, 2024

How to take a photo of the eclipse without damaging your phone

Here are some tips for taking photos of Monday’s upcoming solar eclipse without ruining your smartphone.

And finally ...

Enjoy the day! Rare moments can bring people together. At least some scientists think so.

Of course they can also spark end-times conspiracies (please, ignore those!).

At least it will be clear in Southern California. Elsewhere, cloudy skies risk spoiling the view for eclipse chasers. There are only expected to be a few small clouds in the Los Angeles area near the eastern San Gabriel Mountains, but even hikers on those peaks will still be able to catch the eclipse, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Kristan Lund.

How do animals react during a total solar eclipse? Scientists plan to find out in April

Researchers and citizen scientists will observe how animals’ routines at several zoos are disrupted during the April 8 total solar eclipse.

March 13, 2024

Science & Medicine

These scientists think an ‘awe’-some eclipse could help unite Americans in troubled times

Awe is a serious topic among psychologists, including one at UC Irvine investigating whether awe-inspiring solar eclipses can help unite Americans.

April 7, 2024

Going to miss the solar eclipse? Don’t worry, the next one is only years away

California only gets a partial eclipse. But that’s no reason to miss it. The next one is years away.

More to Read

OK, the eclipse was cool, but those glasses aren’t. Now what?

April 10, 2024

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Dodgers vs. Padres odds, score prediction: 2024 MLB picks, Sunday Night Baseball best bets from proven model

Sportsline's model simulated san diego padres vs. los angeles dodgers 10,000 times and released its mlb picks, predictions and best bets.

The San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers meet in the deciding game of their three-game series in a key National League West matchup on Sunday Night Baseball. Following a lengthy rain delay, Los Angeles earned a 5-2 win on Saturday night. The Padres (8-9), who are second in the NL West, are 3-3 on the road this season, after going 38-43 away from home in 2023. The Dodgers (11-6), who have won 10 of the past 11 division championships, are 7-3 at home after going 53-28 at Dodger Stadium a year ago.

First pitch from Los Angeles is set for 7:10 p.m. ET. The Dodgers lead the all-time series 524-424, including a 278-200 edge in games played at home. Los Angeles is a -159 favorite on the money line (risk $159 to win $100) in the latest Padres vs. Dodgers odds from SportsLine consensus, while the over/under for total runs scored is 8.5. Before making any Dodgers vs. Padres picks, be sure to  see the MLB predictions and betting advice from SportsLine's proven computer model .

The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every MLB game 10,000 times. It is coming off a profitable 93-74 season on top-rated MLB picks , and it excelled on top-rated run-line picks, going 18-6 (+766). Anybody following has seen big returns.

Now, the model has set its sights on Dodgers vs. Padres and just locked in its picks and MLB predictions. You can head to SportsLine now to see the model's picks . Here are several  MLB odds  and betting lines for Padres vs. Dodgers:

• Padres vs. Dodgers money line: San Diego +134, Los Angeles -159
• Padres vs. Dodgers over/under: 8.5 runs
• Padres vs. Dodgers run line: Los Angeles -1.5 (+128)
• SD: The Padres have hit the money line in 20 of their last 27 games (+12.45 units)
• LAD: The Dodgers have hit the run line in 72 of their past 128 games (+16.60 units)
• Padres vs. Dodgers picks: See picks at SportsLine

Why you should back the Dodgers

Los Angeles is expected to send left-hander James Paxton (2-0, 1.64 ERA) to the mound. Paxton is coming off a 4-2 win at Minnesota on Monday. In that game, he pitched six innings, allowing two earned runs on three hits with one walk and four strikeouts. He went five innings in an 8-3 win over San Francisco on April 1, allowing four hits and no runs with five walks and five strikeouts. In four career starts against San Diego, he is 2-1 with a 1.83 ERA. In 19.2 innings, he has allowed four earned runs and 10 walks with 24 strikeouts.

Superstar Mookie Betts has a five-game hitting streak after going 3-for-5 with two RBI on Saturday. Over the past 10 games, he has hits in eight games, including two with two or more. In 17 games this season, Betts is among the team leaders in hitting with a .364 batting average with six homers, 16 RBI and 20 runs scored. He has dominated Padres pitching throughout his career, batting .315 with 20 doubles, one triple, 19 homers and 46 RBI in 60 games. See which team to pick here . 

Why you should back the Padres

Right-hander Yu Darvish (0-1, 3.86 ERA) will start for San Diego. He has four starts on the season, pitching 18.2 innings, allowing eight earned runs and eight walks, while striking out 20. He pitched just three innings in his last outing, a 9-8 win over the Chicago Cubs on Monday. In that game, he allowed four earned runs, while walking three and striking out four. He has had a lot of success against the Dodgers, starting 13 career games against them. Despite a 4-5 record against Los Angeles, he has a sparkling 2.27 ERA, allowing just 20 earned runs in 79.1 innings, with 21 walks and 95 strikeouts.

Jurickson Profar has hits in nine of the past 10 games, including a 1-for-4 performance on Saturday. He has three multiple hit games on the season, including a 3-for-3 effort with a double and a home run with three RBI in Wednesday's 10-2 win over the Cubs. For the year, he is batting .321 with two homers, 10 RBI and six runs scored. In 75 career games against the Dodgers, he has eight doubles, four homers and 19 RBI.  See which team to pick here . 

How to make Padres vs. Dodgers picks

SportsLine's model is leaning Over on the total, projecting 9.4 combined runs. It also says one side of the money line has all the value. You can only get the model's MLB picks at SportsLine . So who wins Dodgers vs. Padres on Sunday Night Baseball, and which side should you back? Visit SportsLine now to see which side you need to jump on, all from the model that went 18-6 on top-rated MLB run-line picks last season , and find out.

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What time is solar eclipse in Los Angeles?

Total solar eclipse.

Rewatch the total solar eclipse.

LOS ANGELES - A total solar eclipse crossed North America today, slicing a diagonal line from the southwest to the northeast, briefly plunging communities in Mexico, the U.S. and Canada along the track into darkness.

Outside that narrow path, the eclipse was still visible in different parts of the U.S., including California, but the moon only partially obscured the sun. Think of it this way — the further away from the path of totality, the slighter the partial eclipse was.

According to calculations by NASA, areas to the south and east of Los Angeles saw about 50% obscuration—the moon shrouding half of the sun—while much of the rest of the state saw around 25%.

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Countdown to Solar Eclipse 2024

The 2024 Great North American eclipse is finally near.

The best spot to see the most coverage in the Golden State was estunated to be near Holtville in Imperial County, where nearly 59% obscuration was predicted, reaching a maximum effect around 11:14 a.m. PST, according to forecasts by meteorological and astronomical data compilers Time and Date.

SoCal to see partial solar eclipse

Eclipse Day has arrived!

San Diego was expected to see 53.8% coverage, per NASA calculations , around 11:11 a.m. PST, while Los Angeles was expected to see 48.6% obscuration around 11:12 a.m.

There were several watch parties around the Los Angeles area to celebrate the rare phenomenon. To learn more, tap or click here.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Watch CBS News

See the full list of past total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

By Kerry Breen

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 4:36 AM EDT / CBS News

A  rare total solar eclipse was visible in parts of the United States Monday. Those in the path of totality  had the opportunity to see the sun be fully covered by the moon for several minutes.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and aren't often visible from the U.S. The last time one occurred here  was in 2017 , and the U.S. won't see another until 2044 .

Here's a list of all the times a total solar eclipse has been recorded in the United States. 

Total solar eclipse in the U.S. during the 18th century

The first recorded total solar eclipse was in 1778, according to NASA , just a few short years after the United States became an independent country. The eclipse was visible from the Carolinas to New England, and was noted by historical figures like Thomas Jefferson, according to Mount Vernon , the museum established in former President George Washington's estate. Troops in Washington's army also noted the event. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 19th century

1806: The first total solar eclipse of the 1800s occurred in 1806, according to the National Parks Service . The path of that eclipse would have crossed from Arizona, through the Midwest and into New England, according to NASA . 

1869: The next total solar eclipse was recorded in 1869. The path of totality stretched from Alaska to the Carolinas, according to NASA . Photos of the event were published in Harper's Magazine, the service said, the first mass publication to do so. 

1878: The next total solar eclipse occurred in 1878, and the path of totality arced from Alaska through Louisiana, according to NASA . It was studied by an all-woman team of astronomers, according to the parks service, and Thomas Edison himself traveled to see the event, bringing scientific equipment to study the sun's corona during the eclipse. 

List of total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 20th century

1900: The first eclipse of the 20th century was in 1900, according to the parks service. The path of totality of that eclipse brought it over Wadesboro, North Carolina.

1918: In June 1918, a total solar eclipse was visible from Washington to Florida, according to the parks service. It was the last time a total solar eclipse would be visible across the entire continent for nearly 100 years. 

1925: This was followed by another total solar eclipse in January 1925, which was visible from Minnesota through New England, according to NASA . 

1932: In August 1932, another total solar eclipse was visible in North America. The path of totality for this eclipse was mostly in Canada, according to NASA , but was visible in northern New England including parts of Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts. 

1963: The next total solar eclipse in the U.S. wasn't until July 1963. This eclipse was visible in Alaska and parts of northern New England, according to NASA . 

1970: In March 1970, another total solar eclipse was visible from the coast of the Southwest United States. Watch CBS News coverage of that event in the video below:

1979: The last eclipse that NASA recorded in the 20th century took place in 1979. This eclipse was visible in the Pacific Northwest and parts of Idaho and the Dakotas, but the path of totality mostly arced through Canada. 

Total solar eclipses in the U.S. during the 21st century so far

Only two total solar eclipses have been visible from the United States during the 21st century. The first was the total solar eclipse of 2017 , which was visible across the country . This was the first time such an event had occurred since 1918, and millions gathered to watch . 

The April 8, 2024, eclipse was the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. The path of totality for this eclipse stretched from Texas to the Northeast. The eclipse started  on Mexico's Pacific coast at just after 11 a.m. PDT before traveling across the U.S. and into Canada. The eclipse left North America around 5:19 p.m. EDT. 

The eclipse attracted millions of spectators. Some areas where the event was most visible declared local states of emergency to account for the number of expected visitors. 

When will the next total solar eclipse be visible in the U.S.?

After the April 8 eclipse, the U.S. won't see another total solar eclipse for decades. The next total solar eclipse visible from the United States will occur in August 2044. 

Total solar eclipses typically happen every one to three years somewhere around the globe, but the events are often only visible from Earth's poles or from the middle of the ocean. 

Kerry Breen is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. A graduate of New York University's Arthur L. Carter School of Journalism, she previously worked at NBC News' TODAY Digital. She covers current events, breaking news and issues including substance use.

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Padres vs. Dodgers odds, prediction: MLB picks, best bets for Saturday

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Fading the Dodgers is a scary proposition, though there will be some points throughout the season where that might become necessary.

However, Saturday is not that day. I’m not only betting the Dodgers to win, but taking them at more favorable odds on the run line.

And that’s because of a remarkable run the Dodgers have been on over the past two years.

Let’s get into that and more in our Padres vs. Dodgers betting preview for Saturday.

Padres vs. Dodgers odds

Padres vs. dodgers prediction.

I’m not typically a fan of betting the run line, but the Dodgers are the centerpiece of one of my favorite run-line stats. Going into the series opener against the Padres, seven of the Dodgers’ 10 wins have come by two or more runs. Going back further, 192 of the Dodgers’ 224 wins (86%) over the past two seasons have been by multiple runs. 

The Dodgers’ offense, which scored five or more runs in 11 of its first 15 games, doesn’t need much analysis.

Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman all have top-five odds to win NL MVP for a reason. And with them, Los Angeles can rack up runs on anyone.

But while betting their run line on Saturday can be justified because of their hitting, their pitching is part of the equation as well. Gavin Stone, a 25-year-old right-hander, is set to start and is looking to bounce back from a troubling start against the Cubs last weekend.

In that outing, Chicago tagged Stone for five runs on six hits over three innings. He did strike out five, but he also issued a trio of walks.

Stone’s 9.00 ERA through two starts (eight innings) is obviously disappointing, but there are some things to like when looking a bit deeper.

An xERA of 3.69 suggests the pitching hasn’t been as bad as the results. Stone also ranks in the 77th percentile in hard-hit percentage, the 85th percentile in chase rate and the 88th percentile in whiff rate.

Those are certainly some encouraging signs that indicate Stone’s luck should start to improve.

Obviously, he’s not expected to turn into an ace overnight, but with the Dodgers’ offense behind him, he doesn’t need to throw seven scoreless innings every five days. He simply needs to keep his team in the game.

Meanwhile, the Padres will send Matt Waldron to the mound.

The knuckleballer (yes, there are some left) has a 3.95 xERA and a 3.86 ERA on the season, so he’s pretty much performed to his expected metrics.

He gave up one (unearned) run over 5 1/3 innings in his previous outing, and although there’s nothing in his profile that necessarily makes me want to fade him, the Dodgers’ lineup is ridiculous.

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Padres vs. Dodgers pick

Stone should start to turn things around, Los Angeles has the most talented roster in the league and history shows the Dodgers typically win by multiple runs.

Pick: Dodgers run line -1.5 (+105, DraftKings )

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Shohei Ohtani didn’t escape the Tungsten Arm O’Doyle special with Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani had a great night for the Los Angeles Dodgers and even made history. But, the Dodgers blew a lead to the San Diego Padres and lost in extra innings.

By Scott Rogust | Apr 13, 2024

This past winter, Shohei Ohtani signed a record-breaking deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers worth $700 million over 10 years. Joining a team with Mookie Betts and Freddie Freemann would be a breath of fresh air for Ohtani, considering he would have a team with plenty of firepower in the batting order. That is a far cry from his time with the Angels, in which he would perform superhuman feats and sometimes make history, only to see the team lose by multiple runs.

That spawned the "Tungsten Arm O'Doyle" memes . "Tungsten Arm O'Doyle" is a fictional player created by a Twitter user mocking how Ohtani would make history in games, but the Angels would still lose by an absurd number of runs. As it turns out, he can't escape it. Yes, even on the Dodgers.

On Friday, the Dodgers held a 7-3 lead over the San Diego Padres , in which Ohanti contributed by hitting a solo home run in the bottom of the first inning. This was Ohtani's 175th career home run, which tied Hideki Matsui for the most home runs hit by a Japanese-born player.

History for Shohei Ohtani! Shohei ties Hideki Matsui for most home runs by a Japanese-born player! pic.twitter.com/9JXIBv2Rcy — MLB (@MLB) April 13, 2024

Overall, Ohtani went 3-for-5 at the plate, knocking in a run and scoring on his own. Betts hit a three-run homer in the bottom of the second inning. Yet, the Dodgers lost 8-7 in the 11th inning after Jackson Merrill scored Jose Azocar on an RBI single.

Shohei Ohtani went 3-5 with a double, home run, and an RBI as the dodgers lost to the San Diego Padres 8-7 pic.twitter.com/vstwKqZHbz — Jake (@D1SCHER) April 13, 2024

Dodgers blow 7-3 lead to Padres, despite Shohei Ohtani heroics

Things went downhill for the Dodgers since the top of the sixth inning, where Jake Cronenworth decreased the Padres' deficit to 7-4 on a solo home run. But in the seventh inning, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called upon Ryan Brasier to replace Daniel Hudson. Brasier walked Merrill and surrendered a single to Tyler Wade. Xander Bogaerts grounded out but allowed Merrill to score from third to cut the deficit to 7-5. The very next batter was Fernando Tatis Jr., who tied the game up with a two-run blast to center field.

The Dodgers would only have one runner in scoring position (not counting the ghost runners in the 10th and 11th innings). This wasted a solid outing from free agent signing Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who struck out six batters and allowed three earned runs on four hits in 5.0 innings of work.

At least, maybe, this type of loss won't happen as frequently as it would have been if Ohtani had stayed with the Angels?

The Dodgers will look to avenge this loss on Saturday, with first pitch taking place at 9:10 p.m. ET.