San Diego
San Diego
The Fodor's Five
The five things you need to know before traveling to San Diego
San Diego boasts a moderate year-round climate, just be sure to pack warm layers for cooler nights.
San Diego is an ideal year-round destination to visit, and there’s a little something for everyone depending on the season. Boasting a moderate to warm climate 365 days a year, while there’s not a bad time weather-wise to visit America’s Finest City, no matter the time of year, it’s always a good idea to pack some extra layers as temperatures tend to drop at night when the marine layer rolls in.
San Diego is well known for its breweries and craft beer scene, but cocktail culture is on the rise now too.
With more than 150 independent breweries in and around the country, San Diego has been called the craft beer capital of the world for good reason. In addition to beer, the city has seen an emergence in its cocktail culture in recent years, from sexy new speakeasies to a whimsical bar in the middle of the University Town Center (UTC) mall, sipping your way around town has never been better.
Having a car is key to seeing the sights.
There’s plenty to see, eat, and discover in and around San Diego, but having a car is key to digging into the local culture. From cruising along the 101 to visiting the gliderport in La Jolla and going for a hike in Torry Pines, having a car at the ready will make San Diego much more accessible than relying on public transporation for these adventures.
Surf culture is alive and well all across San Diego county.
From Pacific Beach (PB), Ocean Beach (OB), Mission Beach to Cardiff, Encinitas, and Carlsbad in North County, San Diego’s surf culture is not only alive and well, but it’s a huge part of what makes San Diego such a unique place. Whether you want to partake in the action or watch the surf from the sidelines, knowing where to go to catch the best break and experience San Diego’s surf culture is a huge part of what sets this Southern California town apart from the pack.
The culinary scene has come a long way in recent years.
Set along the border of Mexico, San Diego is well known for its authentic Mexican fare. While there’s no shortage of incredible and authentic restaurants at every price-point to choose from, the city’s culinary scene has expanded to include a wide variety of excellent eats over recent years. From Michelin-rated Mexican fare at Valle in Oceanside to five-star fine dining at Addison, and chef-driven restaurants all across San Diego County, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance at some of the city’s top spots.
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SAN, CLDElectrical Outlets
120 V/60Hz; Type A plugs have two flat prongs. Type B plugs have the same two flat prongs with a third round prong; together the three form a triangular shape.Currency
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EnglishElectrical Outlets
120 V/60Hz; Type A plugs have two flat prongs. Type B plugs have the same two flat prongs with a third round prong; together the three form a triangular shape.Currency
US DollarNearby Airports
SAN, CLDWhen to Go
San Diego’s weather is so ideal that most locals shrug off the high cost of living and relatively low wages as a "sunshine tax." Along the coast...Read More
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San Diego’s weather is so ideal that most locals shrug off the high cost of living and relatively low wages as a "sunshine tax." Along the coast...Read More
Neighborhood Guides
Discover the best neighborhoods in San Diego with curated recommendations from our editors.
Local Weather
When to Go
San Diego’s weather is so ideal that most locals shrug off the high cost of living and relatively low wages as a "sunshine tax." Along the coast...Read More
Neighborhood Guides
Discover the best neighborhoods in San Diego with curated recommendations from our editors.
essentials
- Activities
- Children
- Dining
- Dining Hours
- Health and Safety
- Lodging
- Lodging Strategy
- Need a Reservation?
- Nightlife
- Packing
- Parking
- Parking
- Performing Arts
- Prices
- Prices
- Reservations
- San Diego Beaches Planner
- San Diego by the Seasons
- Services
- Shopping
- Smoking
- Staying with Kids
- The Lowdown
- Tickets
- What's Going On?
- What to Wear
- When to Go
transportation
resources
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