Have you been craving a California getaway, without the congestion of L.A.? San Diego offers plenty of sandy beaches and sunny days, with an even more laid-back vibe and the best border town tacos you can find.
The city’s top-rated local craft brewing industry is a major draw, along with the famous San Diego Zoo, other amusement parks and many historic sites from the city’s Spanish and Mexican heritage. And San Diego’s deep-water harbor supports a wide range of coastal activities, including sightseeing cruises, whale-watching and Southern California’s largest sport fishing fleet.
It’s more doable than you think. According to travel site Skyscanner, there are plenty of flights from Phoenix to San Diego in the next few months, and the prices aren't too shabby.
So if you're looking for a change of scenery, here are some deals to put on your to-do list.
(Hoodline offers data-driven analysis of local happenings and trends across cities. Links included in the articles may earn Hoodline a commission on clicks and transactions. Prices and availability are subject to change.)
Cheapest San Diego flights
Currently, the cheapest flights between Phoenix and San Diego are if you leave on Feb. 28 and return from California on March 4. American Airlines currently has roundtrip tickets for $183.
There are also deals to be had in March. If you fly out of Phoenix on March 30 and return from San Diego on April 3, American Airlines can get you there and back for $191 roundtrip.
Top San Diego hotels
Regarding where to stay, here are two of San Diego’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.
The Best Western Plus (2051 Shelter Island Drive)
For an all-around top recommendation, consider the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina. The hotel has a 4.8-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $109.
Situated near the airport, this San Diego hotel is also close to Naval Base Coronado and Seaworld, as well as the San Diego Zoo.
The Hotel del Coronado (1500 Orange Ave.)
A pricer alternative is The Hotel del Coronado, which has rooms for $290/night.
Top picks for dining and drinking
San Diego has plenty of top-notch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.
The Prado at Balboa Park (1549 El Prado)
One of San Diego's most popular restaurants is The Prado at Balboa Park, with 4.6 stars from 133 reviews.
Set in the rich landscape and finely manicured gardens, the Prado Restaurant is located at the historic House of Hospitality in the center of San Diego.
Mister A'S (2550 Fifth Ave.)
Also worth considering is Mister A'S.
Offering the most spectacular views in San Diego, Mr. A's is just minutes from downtown and an eternity from the ordinary dining experience.
In-N-Out Burger (2005 Camino Del Este)
Finally, there's In-N-Out Burger.
"Favorite place to grab a burger, and it is so cheap," wrote Kim."Freshly made fries and milkshakes made with real ice cream round out a great meal!"
What to see and do in San Diego
To round out your trip, San Diego offers plenty of popular attractions worth visiting. Here are some top recommendations, based on Skyscanner's descriptions and reviews.
The San Diego Zoo (2920 Zoo Drive)
First up is The San Diego Zoo, which is one of the most prolific and popular zoos in the world. It houses over 4,000 animals from more than 800 species.
Tourists and locals regularly flock to the zoo, in particular to view exhibits of rare animals including giant pandas and polar bears.
Balboa Park (1549 El Prado)
Then, there's Balboa Park, a massive urban park.
Along with countless green spaces and gardens, the park is home to multiple museums, shops, restaurants and, most famously, the San Diego Zoo.
The Gaslamp Quarter (614 Fifth Ave.)
Finally, consider checking out The Gaslamp Quarter.
The hippest area in San Diego, the Gaslamp Quarter is alive with activity almost every day (and night) of the week. From restaurants and bars to fashion and art, this really is the heart of fun in the city.
