From Cardiff-by-the-Sea to San Diego: A Coastal Journey Through California’s Most Famous City

Begin your morning in Cardiff-by-the-Sea—one of North County’s most relaxed and scenic coastal towns—before heading out on a full-day adventure through San Diego. Your shared tour begins at the Carlsbad Windmill Food Hall, a simple and convenient meeting point just off I-5 with plenty of coffee and food options if you arrive early.

From Carlsbad, your guide takes you south toward La Jolla, where your first stop is Mount Soledad. This spectacular hilltop memorial delivers sweeping views of the Pacific coastline, San Diego’s cityscape, the rugged cliffs of La Jolla, and the surrounding mountains. It’s an unforgettable start to your day.

Next, you’ll explore La Jolla Cove, famous for its sandstone formations, picturesque shoreline, and thriving sea lion population. Enjoy a scenic walk along the blufftop paths at Ellen Browning Scripps Park, take photos of the dramatic ocean scenery, or explore tide pools when the tide is low.

Your tour then continues to Old Town San Diego, the historic birthplace of California. Wander through preserved adobe buildings, colorful courtyards, museums, and artisan shops that tell the story of the state's early cultural influences. You’ll have time to explore at your own pace.

Around lunchtime, you’ll arrive at Seaport Village, a charming waterfront district filled with restaurants, shops, and harbor views. Choose from a variety of lunch options (meals not included), stroll the bayfront walkway, or shop for souvenirs with views of the Coronado Bridge and active Navy ships.

After lunch, settle in for a narrated drive through the Gaslamp Quarter, one of San Diego’s most historic neighborhoods. Your guide will point out the iconic Gaslamp Arch, restored Victorian architecture, and share stories about the district’s early nightlife and modern transformation.

Then, cross over to Coronado Island for a visit to the iconic Hotel Del Coronado. Explore the grounds of this legendary Victorian resort, browse its shops, or take a relaxing walk along the wide, white-sand beach with views of Point Loma across the water.

Your final major stop is Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural haven filled with lush gardens, Spanish-style architecture, and scenic walking paths. Enjoy time to explore the Botanical Building area, plazas, fountains, or simply take in the beauty of this famous park.

Before returning north, your guide will take you through Little Italy, one of San Diego’s most beloved food and culture districts, offering a final glimpse of the city’s vibrant lifestyle.

The tour concludes back at the Carlsbad Windmill Food Hall in the early evening.

• Free central meeting point at Carlsbad Windmill Food Hall
• 890 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92011
• Comfortable shared vehicle
• Professional local guide with live narration
• Free time at six signature San Diego attractions
• Narrated drive-throughs of the Gaslamp Quarter & Little Italy
• Bottled water and light snacks onboard

• Lunch (available for purchase in Seaport Village)
• Admissions (optional, if guests choose to enter museums or attractions)
• Guide gratuities (optional but appreciated)