You scroll past another Instagram post of someone lounging in their petal-filled tub in Bali. You heave out a heavy sigh and down the lukewarm dregs of your once-fresh coffee. After shooting off a quick text in your group chat to please please do something fun this weekend, you’re met with enthusiastic affirmations. But they’re followed by the timeless conundrum of “what should we do?” Because, while we’d all love to jet off to Bali, not all of us can be social media influencers. So, quick fix: Girls trip in San Diego.

We easily forget that countless people from Midwest America to Europe to Antarctica would love to come to California (especially the Antarcticans). But, when you’re far from eager to melt into the asphalt or wither away in the endless traffic of Los Angeles, why not look a bit south? 

San Diego tours have all the elements of the quintessential girls trip: shopping, brunch, bars, and of course, the beach—without breaking the bank! So, ready those Yelp bookmarks, dig out your cards (although, you basically have it memorized if you’re being honest), and overpack your bags for the perfect weekend getaway.

Best Area to Stay for Every Kind of Traveler

One travel style does not fit all. While some may love to get up at the break of dawn to hike, others may just be getting back to their beds. Don’t worry. We’ve got the perfect place to stay to suit each type of travelers’ needs. 

Gaslamp Quarter

So Diego’s Brothels, Bites, & Booze Tour

Whether you choose to make camp here or not, the Gaslamp Quarter is an iconic destination on a San Diego walking tour. Buzzing with bars and vibrant from the lights of its namesake, the Victorian-esque district is ideal for travelers who love to be smack-dab in the middle of city life. Particularly, for the fancy partier, you’ll find it central to all of the bustling hotspots. 

In the Gaslamp Quarter, there are more hip bars and clubs than you may have time to hit during your stay. Visit Omnia for the reliably classy ambiance and chart-toppers that hallmarks each of its locations. Experience the unique decor and energy of Bang Bang. The nightlife has something to cater to the desires of every type of clubber and is perfect for bachelorette parties in San Diego. 

We recommend these Gaslamp Quarter attractions for when you’re not up to partying:

• Balboa Park – Easily accessible by car, public transportation, or even bike! The beautiful park has enough to keep you enchanted for hours. It’s home to over sixteen museums, picturesque trails, lovely gardens, the San Diego Zoo, and more!
• Food and Wine Tour – Just because you’re not in the mood to party, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy quality food, drinks, and conversation. Pair your perfect girls’ weekend in San Diego with a cabernet. Or perhaps a pinot? You know what, pair it with an entire wine tour in Little Italy run by us! For more options, check out these 5 wine bars in San Diego to add to your list. 
• Coronado – If you’re looking to explore more of San Diego, the Embarcadero Ferry to Coronado has daily services every thirty minutes. Find the schedule here. 
• Little Italy Mercato Farmers’ Market – Available on Saturdays, there’s no better way to wind down than to stroll through one of the farmers markets in San Diego, CA. You’ll find the sprawling set up year-round from 8 am to 2 pm, rain-or-shine. Pick up some fresh fruit, local artisanal souvenirs, or a light lunch to fuel your adventures!
• Restaurants – Bandar, Luca, Double Standard, Herb and Eatery—all great options in and around the Gaslamp.

All in all, what we’re saying is: For a girls trip in downtown San Diego, The Gaslamp is a must. To be within close vicinity to these spots, stay at the Solemar, US Grant, or the Hard Rock Hotel. 

Pacific Beach

Photo Courtesy: Moondoggies Pacific Beach

For the beach girl partier, may we present to you: Pacific Beach. This lively area is a beacon for the college crowd or those young at heart. You’ll find this atmosphere welcoming if you’re looking for memorable times in casual attire. It’s the fun you deserve, without the cruel necessity of wearing heels and tight dresses. Going barefoot after a bar crawl here will certainly stand out less on the sand than on the questionable carpet of Las Vegas-inspired nightclubs.  

However, if you and your girl group love dressing up, there are certainly more upscale options available. Let go of all your worries and dance the night away at one of the many Pacific Beach bars! 

Encinitas

Photo Courtesy: EncinitasAdvocate.com

Not looking to party it up? If you’re searching more for renewal, center yourself in Encinitas. With a robust yogi-beach vibe, the slow-paced and laidback town is a mecca for health-minded individuals. In addition to the countless outdoor beach activities, you could throw a yoga mat and probably end up hitting a yoga studio. 

Thrive in the booming yoga culture and spiritual community of Encinitas. What are you waiting for? Warrior pose while watching the waves crash. Namaste.

Del Mar

Photo Courtesy: Pacifica Del Mar

Looking for a different kind of pampering? For a more indulgent experience, Del Mar is renowned as an upscale beach city. Leisurely stroll around the shops and enjoy the beautiful weather at Flower Hill Promenade or One Paseo. After building an appetite from carrying all your shopping bags, you may take your pick of several highly-rated restaurants to dine at, including:

• Pacifica
• Searsucker
• Cucina Enoteca
• Market

If you truly want to immerse yourself in the history, and delicious food, in Del Mar, book a Del Mar food tour with us. Relax with a stay at the L’Auberge Del Mar, Fairmont Grand Del Mar, or Rancho Valencia hotel—all three acclaimed luxury resorts and spas. 

To Brunch or to Not Brunch

That is definitely a rhetorical question. Because the answer is always brunch. Especially in San Diego. This beachy hillside is replete with excellent brunch spots. But, don’t get overwhelmed just yet, because our experts have done all of the hard work for you. Below you’ll find the fruits of our labor with tried-and-true results.

Morning Glory

Offering everything from delicate souffle pancakes, avocado toast facetiously named Millennial Tears, to standard fare brunch items, Morning Glory is our pick for the adored lovechild of breakfast and lunch. Whether you’re fiending for caffeine or alcohol, the expansive, creative menu will be sure to satisfy you. Be aware that this is not just our pick, as you might witness if you amble in at noon. That waitlist is no joke, so do go early.

• Hours: Open 7 am to 3 pm Daily
• Address: 550 West Date St. San Diego, CA 92101

If you’re feeling too hungover or hangry for the wait, head over to one of these Mission Hill restaurants instead: 

• The Patio
• Harley Gray
• Farmers Bottega

Drive 15 minutes North, and you’ll hit Carlsbad. This historic city is also full of great bites. Explore this city with us on our Carlsbad food tour!

Best Shopping for Fast Fashion Finds

One tactic to avoid overpacking is to just buy your wardrobe while you’re traveling. This is a great option if you need some new clothes for those social media posts (just because you aren’t an influencer doesn’t mean you can never be). 

Why shouldn’t your getaway be the time to treat yourself? Whatever your reason may be, we have you covered.

Ocean Beach

Photo Courtesy: Current Collective Boutique

Head to Ocean Beach for the perfect day-time activity to ward off your brunch-food coma and prepare for your night out. And, what better way to enjoy a beautiful afternoon in San Diego than by popping into charming and trendy shops down palm-tree-lined streets? Here you will find thrift shops, boutiques, and popular retail stores all within walking distance. Ocean Beach has a diverse selection of stores for each budget and style. 

Brunch, Boozin, and Bathing Suits

Pick your poison or pick them all. San Diego really has all the options for your girls trip. With all the well-researched choices laid out for you, you can slap together a quick getaway for you and the friends you love the most, spending more time deciding what outfits to pack. 

Sources: 

Flagship. Coronado. https://www.flagshipsd.com/cruises/coronado-ferry

Morning Glory Breakfast. Home. https://morningglorybreakfast.com/