San Diego may be the most expensive US city to live in, but that doesn’t mean you have to drain your bank account to visit America’s Finest City. In fact, there are plenty of fun things to do in San Diego without spending a fortune.
From exploring downtown San Diego to enjoying the beautiful beaches and parks, this ultimate guide will show you how to plan your trip to San Diego on a budget. Whether you’re interested in wandering through Balboa Park, relaxing on Mission Beach, or strolling through the charming neighborhoods of Little Italy and Old Town, there are endless opportunities and ways to have a blast without breaking the bank. So grab your sunscreen and get ready to explore all that San Diego has to offer without a hefty price tag!
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Why try to visit San Diego on a budget?
Sure, you could go all out and spend a fortune here. So why try and visit San Diego on a budget?
Well, for starters, you’ll get to experience all the amazing attractions and free and cheap things this city offers without worrying about breaking the bank. San Diego is known for its incredible weather, stunning beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class attractions, and with a little creativity, you can enjoy all of these without feeling the pinch in your wallet.
Not only will visiting San Diego on a budget save you money, but it will also allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and truly experience the city like a local. You’ll have the opportunity to explore hidden gems, try delicious street food, and even discover low-cost and free attractions happening around the city.
So, if you’re looking for a destination that offers plenty of fun and excitement San Diego is the perfect place to visit on a budget if you’re willing to be creative and visit like a local. Stay tuned for more tips on how to make the most of your trip without going broke.
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Cheap Eats and Drinks
When it comes to enjoying delicious food and drinks in San Diego without spending a fortune, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of cheap eats and drinks options available. From trendy food trucks to local hole-in-the-wall joints, this city has something to satisfy every palate when you’re visiting San Diego on a budget.
Taco Stands
When I think of San Diego, I can’t help but think about tacos. So if you find yourself looking for an inexpensive meal, you should check out the local taco stands and Mexican street food vendors. They offer mouth-watering tacos, burritos, and quesadillas at more affordable prices than you would find at a restaurant. Tacos El Gordo is a San Diego classic that is famous for their Tijuana tacos with affordable prices.
Pizza
Finding a pizza joint is a great way to eat for cheap. Order a large pie to share or order by the slice. We love visiting Village Pizzeria on Coronado Island. They offer pizza by the slice and have an incredible happy hour with $3 slices and $4 pints.
Happy Hour
For a taste of the local craft beer scene, head to one of the many breweries, restaurants, and bars during happy hour, when you can enjoy some apps and a pint or two at discounted prices. We always make it a point to catch happy hour during our travels to save money on dining out. San Diego Magazine has an awesome Happy Hour Guide to help you find the best happy hours as you plan your dining!
Coffee Shops
When I’m really wanting to go out but a dinner out isn’t in the budget, a coffee shop is a great compromise! I can enjoy a coffee and pastry for about $10. And lingering at a coffee shop is never an issue. You’ll find no shortage of fabulous cafes and coffee shops in San Diego.
If you find yourself in La Jolla, visit Il Giardino di Lilli for massive Italian pastries and rich espresso drinks in beautiful surroundings.
And if you’re in Old Town, you can’t pass up Garden Coffee. It’s a hidden gem that is actually quite different from the Old Town Vibe. This gorgeous little outdoor oasis is the perfect spot to stop for an inexpensive pick-me-up during your time in Old Town.
Picnic
With the gorgeous San Diego weather, you can’t beat a picnic at the beach or the park. Grab a blanket and visit one of the local farmers’ markets or supermarket delis to pick up a lunch to eat outdoors. This is a surefire way to save on food spending while enjoying that amazing San Diego sunshine.
So, whether you’re craving a quick and tasty bite or looking to unwind with a cold brew, San Diego offers a wide range of budget-friendly options that will leave you satisfied.
Free or Cheap Things to Do in San Diego
San Diego offers a fantastic array of free or low-cost attractions that are a must-see for any budget-conscious traveler.
Balboa Park
First on the list is Balboa Park, a sprawling cultural oasis that boasts stunning gardens, gorgeous architecture, and a variety of museums, plus the famous San Diego Zoo. You can’t visit San Diego without a stop at Balboa Park. While most of the museums have an admission fee, you can still explore the park’s expansive grounds and trails for free.
One jewel of a museum that always offers free general admission is the Timken Museum of Art. Featured in their collection are European and American masterpieces that span from medieval to modern exhibitions.
And if possible, you must visit Balboa Park on a Sunday when they have free live performances at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion, courtesy of the largest outdoor pipe organs in the world. Check in the summer for extra performance dates and times.
For an affordable, self-guided guided tour of Balboa Park, all you need is your cell phone! WeGoTrip offers an hour-long audio tour of the grounds of Balboa Park, so you can learn more about the history, architecture, and everything Balboa Park offers guests. And it will cost you less than $10. (Museum entry is not included.)
If you do want to visit more of the museums and the zoo without having to fork up too much cash, you should consider the San Diego Go City Pass. The all-inclusive lets you visit tons of attractions in San Diego. You choose how many days you want your pass to last, and the price adjusts from there. It will save you A LOT of money versus paying for each attraction separately.
Cabrillo National Monument
For history and nature enthusiasts, a visit to Cabrillo National Monument is a must. Located at the tip of Point Loma, this park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the opportunity to learn about the history and natural wonders of the area. Entrance to the park is $20 a car or $10 a person if you’re walking in. It’s free if you have a National Parks annual pass.
La Jolla Cove
If you’re looking to enjoy picturesque views of the crystal clear Pacific coast while watching herds of sea lions and seals set in the most beautiful beach town, you can’t pass up visiting La Jolla and spending a few hours around La Jolla Cove. It is my very favorite place to visit in San Diego! I would be satisfied to spend all of my time here. If you’re visiting San Diego on a budget, La Jolla Cove is a must-see!
Street parking is free, as well as entrance to the beach. There are signs and boundaries that prohibit you from getting too close to the sea lions, but you’ll have plenty of space to watch them from afar.
If you visit on a Sunday, you can wander through the La Jolla Open Aire Market, where you can enjoy treats from local vendors and enjoy a picnic and free entertainment. It’s an inexpensive way to dine in a city which is famous for its high cost of living.
Old Town San Diego
Don’t forget to check out Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This charming area of San Diego is rich in history. You can explore the preserved adobe buildings, browse through unique shops, enjoy eats and drinks at the various cafes and restaurants, and enjoy live entertainment. Admission to the park is free, and it’s a great opportunity to experience the charm of old San Diego without emptying your wallet. You can easily find free street parking or park in one of the many lots for free after 5 pm or all weekend.
Coronado Beach
If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach in San Diego, a visit to Coronado Island might be in order. We love picnicking on the soft, white sand or coming out to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
We also enjoy walking around the grounds at the Hotel del Coronado. This all-wood-constructed beachside resort is a dream to walk around and explore.
We love to wander around the grounds and inside the resort and take in the architecture and entertainment. It’s definitely not a budget-friendly hotel to stay at, but you can still enjoy some of it for free!
Another thing I love about Coronado Island is the free parking. You can drive into Coronado and park on the street or in the beach parking for free anytime. If you prefer not to drive onto the island, you can park at the Coronado Ferry Landing near Seaport Village Trolley Stop and ride the ferry across San Diego Bay onto the island. A roundtrip ticket is $16, making it a fun and affordable way to get to Coronado Island. It’s an experience in itself! It’s one of the best paid things to do in San Diego on a budget.
Mission Bay Park
Mission Bay Park is a San Diego jewel. It is the largest aquatic park of its kind in the US. This sprawling beach park has 19 beaches and miles and miles of shoreline. It’s the place to go for water sports, swimming, hiking, camping, etc. Mission Bay Park seems to have it all. I suggest you start out at the Mission Bay Visitor Center and make your plan from there.
Sunset Cliffs
For some of the best views in San Diego, you must visit Sunset Cliffs. Sunset Cliffs Natural Park is located on the western shoreline of Point Loma Peninsula. The gorgeous, rugged shoreline is a draw for locals and out-of-town guests. It’s the perfect spot to watch surfing or for a scenic drive down Sunset Cliffs Boulevard. And while its name suggests it’s a dreamy spot to catch a sunset, you’ll also have stunning views of a sunrise.
So you don’t miss a thing, I recommend GetYourGuide’s self-guided, narrated driving tour of the beaches and bluffs. This four-hour excursion starts north at Point Loma and takes you south along the coastline, stopping at the BEST scenic views in San Diego!
Hiking Trails
Visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve in San Diego County for free hiking trails with beautiful views of the nation’s rarest pine trees. Even inexperienced hikers can enjoy the trails at Torrey Pines. Many are less than a mile long and easy to fit into your morning or afternoon.
Another popular spot for hiking is Mission Trails Regional Park. You’ll find everything from easy to difficult trails in this 8,000-acre park. Before starting your hike, stop at the visitor center with a stunning view of Mission Gorge.
With these fun free things, you can make the most of your time in San Diego without worrying about breaking the bank.
Finding affordable accommodations in San Diego
If you’re traveling on a budget, finding affordable accommodations in San Diego is essential. And while a first glance at the hotel prices might send you reeling, there are a variety of budget-friendly options.
Hostels in San Diego
One of the best ways to save money on accommodations is by booking a stay at a hostel. San Diego has several hostels located in popular areas such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Ocean Beach. These hostels offer shared dormitory-style rooms at a fraction of the cost of traditional hotels. Plus, they often have common areas where you can meet fellow travelers and exchange tips and recommendations.
I haven’t stayed in one of San Diego’s hostels but they come highly recommended and with great reviews. One such is the Samesun Ocean Beach hostel with its fun eclectic vibe and fabulous location just a short walk from the beach.
If you want to explore the city, the Hi San Diego Downtown is in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter at a fraction of the cost of hotels in the area. The Hi includes free breakfast and wifi and a variety of accommodation options from super cheap bunk rooms to still affordable private rooms.
If you’re looking for other hostel options, TripAdvisor offers a comprehensive list and will help you find the cheapest days to stay.
Hotels in San Diego
If you prefer a bit more privacy, you can find some great hotels that offer comfortable and clean accommodations at affordable prices, perfect for travelers who want a cozy place to rest after a long day of exploring.
While it will be difficult to find affordable lodging near the beach or in the heart of downtown, if you’re willing to go out a little farther, you can find some great hotels in San Diego on a budget.
One of my favorite places to stay is in Old Town. Not only is it a recommended attraction, but I also highly recommend staying the night there. It’s such a great walkable area! On our last trip, we stayed at the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Old Town. Since there were three of us, we either walked and ubered everywhere we needed to go and saved a lot of money on rental car fees and parking.
The Fairfield offers a hot breakfast each day that is delish and a relaxing pool area with a heated pool and hot tub. Their outdoor courtyard is beautiful at night with twinkling lights, lush greenery, and fountains. Our room was very clean, modern, and quiet. And did I mention we got a great rate?! On the Sunday night we were there, our room only cost $129. That’s pretty incredible for San Diego! I will absolutely plan on staying there next time we’re in La Jolla.
Other nice yet affordable hotels in San Diego can be found in Mission Valley and near San Diego Sea World.
Short Term Rental
Another option is to look for vacation rentals or guesthouses. Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of options, from private rooms to entire apartments or houses. Not only can these rentals be more cost-effective, but they also offer a home-like experience and cost savings, allowing you to cook your meals and reduce your dining costs.
This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with a group or have an extended stay. Having a private common area to hang out, a full kitchen, and multiple bedrooms really makes the trip so much more relaxing and enjoyable. And splitting the cost with your travel companions can make these rentals surprisingly affordable!
With a little research and planning, finding affordable accommodations in San Diego is completely doable. By saving money on your stay, you’ll have more to spend on the city’s exciting attractions and fabulous food.
Tips on transportation and getting around San Diego
Transportation and parking fees can eat up a significant portion of your budget. Luckily, San Diego is a modern city with plenty of options for transportation, including mass transit, bike rental, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and of course, options for ride-share and car rental.
Public Transportation
One of the best ways to navigate the city is by taking advantage of San Diego’s public transportation system. The Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) operates an extensive network of buses and trolleys that can take you to all the major attractions at a fraction of the cost of taxis or ride-sharing services. Plus, the trolley system is a fantastic way to get a scenic tour of the city while getting from point A to point B.
For those who plan to visit multiple attractions throughout the week or explore more distant areas of the city, it may be worth considering a multi-day pass for public transportation. These passes offer unlimited rides on buses and trolleys and can save you money in the long run.
I suggest you download the Pronto app to easily pay for fares, purchase passes, plan routes, and see departure times.
Bike Rental
Another affordable transportation option is biking. San Diego is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops located throughout the city. Not only will this save you money on transportation, but it’s also a fantastic way to see the sights and get some exercise in the process.
Walking
If you prefer to explore on foot, you’re in luck. San Diego’s downtown area and many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sidewalks and crosswalks. It’s my favorite way to feel like a local, enjoy the city’s unique vibe, discover hidden gems, and soak up the scenery at my own pace. And it’s the free way to travel in San Diego on a budget.
Ride-Share
Ride-sharing can add up, but we found it quite affordable for most of our excursions. (They price gouge you on those rides from the airport!)
So many of the popular attractions in San Diego are in close proximity to each other, making a lot of our Uber rides only $10-$15 dollars. There were three of us splitting the cost, so this was definitely a cost-effective way to travel! Plus, it allowed us to avoid any parking fees and save quite a bit of time. We could quickly get from point A to point B.
Car Rental
If you’re traveling with a large family or are planning on visiting areas outside of San Diego, like La Jolla Cove or Carlsbad, you’ll probably want to opt for a car rental. When we traveled with our girls, we knew the ride-share prices would be too high, and we wanted a car to be able to tote around food and drinks. We were staying in La Jolla, which also meant that riding the trolley wouldn’t be an easy option.
You can find the best car rental prices with Discover Cars. They’ll negotiate the lowest car rental prices for you. And the prices you’re quoted are the actual cost. There are no hidden taxes or fees, and cancellations are free, as well. It’s the first place I check when I’m looking for a rental car.
Getting around San Diego on a budget is completely doable if you plan ahead and are willing to take advantage of walking in that gorgeous sunny weather.
Wrapping Up: San Diego on a Budget
We hope our experience offers you some inspiration for planning your San Diego trip on a budget. When you’re limited on cash, world-class destinations might seem out of reach, but with some flexibility, creativity, and an open mind, you can have a fabulous trip with a smaller price tag. There are so many incredible free and cheap offerings in San Diego, and I hope you’re able to take advantage of them!
