Discover San Diego in a single day with a private tour that moves from Old Town’s historic plazas to Coronado’s waterfront and Balboa Park’s museum-lined avenues. This nine-hour trip balances short guided walks with scenic drives and cultural snapshots.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the car and the Pacific wind moves like a low promise, tugging at your jacket as the guide outlines the day: Old Town’s adobe storefronts, the bridge sweep onto Coronado, a slow-drive past the aircraft carrier and a long pause in Balboa Park. The city’s neighborhoods unfold like chapters — each one a different tempo and flavor.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires the ability to walk short distances and stand during brief stops.
Wildlife
History
Old Town is the site of San Diego’s earliest non-indigenous settlement and reflects the city’s long Mexican and Spanish colonial history.
Conservation
Coastal habitats and tidepools are fragile—stay on marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and carry out trash to protect shore ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the San Diego Private Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Dress in layers
Coastal mornings can be cool while afternoons become warm—bring a light jacket you can stash.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect short walks on uneven sidewalks and park trails; supportive footwear matters.
Sun protection
Carry sunscreen and a hat—UV is strong even on breezy days along the shore.
Plan for traffic and time
Allow extra time for bridge crossings, port pickups, and popular photo stops during peak periods.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support and grip for pavement, museum floors, and park paths.
Layered jacket or fleece
Mornings and coastal breezes can be chilly; layers adapt to changing conditions.
spring
Sunscreen and hat
Protects skin during midday stops and waterfront photo ops.
summer
Charged camera or smartphone
Capture architecture, ocean views, and street scenes throughout the day.