From beaches to world-class zoos to fun-filled neighborhoods, there is no shortage of things to do in San Diego that will keep you entertained all year round. Although it’s hard to leave San Diego for any reason, there are some pretty spectacular destinations close enough to San Diego that will make you want to get outta town for the day. So get ready to start exploring with our four favorite San Diego day trips.
Image Source: Flickr via Joe Wolf
Julian – 57 miles/75 minute drive from Downtown San Diego
While still officially in San Diego County, Julian feels worlds away with its rustic, old-California charm. Made famous by the 1870 California Gold Rush, Julian is now famous for something much more delicious, apple pie. An early settler brought a few apple trees to Julian and the rest is history. Julian apple pies are now world-famous and no trip here would be complete without sampling a slice of this perfected pie at the Julian Pie Company or a pint of apple cider at Julian Hard Cider.
Other great things to do in Julian are:
- Visit the California Wolf Center for an up-close view of the native wolf population.
- Explore the Eagle and High Peak Gold Mine for an authentic old-West experience.
- Come during the Fall to get a glimpse of the apple harvest.
Ensenada, Mexico – 83 miles/2 hour drive from Downtown San Diego
It’s not often you can take a day trip to another country, but San Diego is so close to Mexico that you can head south of the border with ease. While you can have a great time exploring the border town of Tijuana, venturing further south to Ensenada is much more rewarding. You can easily enjoy great mexican food, culture, and nightlife here while still being able to make it back to San Diego easily.
Our favorite things to do in Ensenada are:
- Get outdoorsy and take advantage of the great surfing, kayaking, and mountain biking options in the area.
- Have gourmet Mexican seafood from a world-renowned street cart at La Guerrerense.
- Enjoy a drink at the oldest cantina in Ensenada, Hussong’s Cantina. No trip to Ensenada would be complete without one.
Palm Springs – 139 miles/2 hour drive from Downtown San Diego
With 354 days of annual sunshine on average, Palm Springs is one of the few places that is actually sunnier than San Diego. Palm Springs is a desert town that is all about relaxation with enough resorts, spas, and golf courses to make your head spin.
Our favorite Palm Springs activities are:
- Going shopping at the hip boutiques and grabbing a bite to eat at the buzz-worthy restaurants located along Palm Canyon Drive.
- Take an unforgettably scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway.
- Treat yourself to a relaxing day at one of the many world-class spas in Palm Springs.
Disneyland – 94 miles/90 minutes driving from Downtown San Diego
If you’re bringing your family to San Diego, no day trip could be better than visiting the original Disneyland in Anaheim. The world-famous ‘happiest place on earth’ is only an hour and a half drive away from San Diego has all the famous rides, attractions, and characters that make this place so famous. Make sure to also visit the newer Disney California Adventure Park as well once you’ve finished seeing the original Disneyland as well to enjoy all the newest attractions and developments there.
Our best Disneyland recommendations are:
- Go on an off-day (a weekday, preferably not during the peak summer months) to avoid big crowds and long lines.
- Take a stroll through Downtown Disney after you’re finished at the park for great shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Make a silly face when getting your picture taken on Splash Mountain.
From family fun at Disneyland to cold cervezas in Ensenada, there are so many great day trips you can take from San Diego. Plus, since they are all day trips you get the added bonus of still being able to sleep in your luxury San Diego vacation rental that night. Contact us at PC Housing today to find out more about vacation rentals in San Diego.