3-Day San Diego Itinerary

If you’re looking for a spring getaway or want to make plans now for Memorial Day Weekend, San Diego has the coastal vibe you’re dreaming of. Not only are there so many fun in the sun things to do in San Diego this spring, but our ideal location on Shelter Island puts you right in the center of all the exciting happenings and events in the area.

The Best Western Island Palms, our island-inspired waterfront hotel, offers beautiful guest accommodations and is the perfect choice for a 3-day beach vacation in San Diego. Guests enjoy resort-style amenities, including two pools and hot tubs, tennis courts, an onsite restaurant, and a fitness center. In addition, just a few steps outside our front door lead to walking and biking paths along the bay, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants for guests of Best Western Island Palms to enjoy.

We invite you to plan your escape to San Diego today to take advantage of our special Stay Longer & Save Offer, designed to get you the best deal possible for your spring and holiday travel by saving 15% off three nights or more at our Shelter Island Hotel.

Whether you want to spend the days on the beach, explore our historic downtown area, take in all the local landmarks, or just want some fun things to do in San Diego, we’ve got you covered with our 3-day San Diego itinerary that highlights the most popular San Diego activities to experience during your Memorial Day weekend getaway to Southern California.

Day One

Morning

Start the day off right with a delicious breakfast with a view at the onsite Blue Wave Bar & Grill. Enjoy beautiful views of Point Loma while dining on breakfast specialties like Eggs Benedict or Banana Pancakes before your adventure starts at nearby Liberty Station. Grab a coffee to go and get ready for some fun San Diego activities!

Afternoon

Head over to Liberty Station for a day of fun-filled activities ranging from mini-golf and paint & sip opportunities to yoga in the park and a variety of local shops to explore. Located on over 360 acres, Liberty Station is one of the most popular things to do in San Diego, where you can spend all day exploring the urban bars, restaurants, and boutiques. After some fun exploring, grab some lunch at one of the amazing restaurants at Liberty Public Market, where you’ll have your choice of everything from pizza to sushi! Next, add a little culture to your trip to San Diego with a visit to the art galleries and museums. Finish up the afternoon with some ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery and relax along the waterfront at one of the beautiful parks.

Evening

After a busy day at Liberty Station, prepare to spend an evening relaxing at the Best Western Island Palms, enjoying our onsite urban amenities. Start with your favorite liberation or craft beer at our Blue Wave Bar & Grill Happy Hour (Daily 4 pm to 6 pm) and try some yummy sips & bites like Mac & Cheese Dippers, Avocado Tacos, or Ahi Tuna Poke Nachos! Relax and enjoy sunset waterfront views with a few cocktails, then prepare for an amazing California coastal cuisine dinner from Blue Wave with indoor or al fresco dining on the patio overlooking the marina! Choose from dishes such as Lobster Mac & Cheese or our ever-popular Smoke Dome Ribeye for a true culinary treat! After dinner, relax in the pool or hot tub, take a stroll along the waterfront on the walking paths, and enjoy a quiet evening along the Pacific coast.

Day Two

Morning

If you’re a morning person, wake up early and treat yourself to a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, then walk over to grab a bite to eat at Breakfast Republic, just minutes away from The Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel & Marina. Voted as one of the best places for brunch and Bloody Marys, enjoy Shakshuka, Strawberry Cheesecake Pancakes, Steak & Eggs, and of course, one of their famous Bloody Marys!

Photo: @Breakfastrepublic)

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon in La Jolla for the perfect day of exploring along the California coast. Referred to as the Crown Jewel of San Diego, La Jolla offers stunning views, amazing restaurants with a view, plenty of shopping, and, of course, an adventure exploring the area. Visit Seal Beach, where you will see seals and sea lions sunbathing, and take a guided kayak tour, navigating through the famous La Jolla sea caves! Encounter leopard sharks, sea lions, and dolphins along the stunning coastline. End your La Jolla adventure at Sunset Cliffs during sunset time for the most breathtaking views imaginable! Then enjoy a leisurely sunset drive along the coast as you head back to the Best Western Island Palms Hotel for an exciting evening at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay.

Evening

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a waterfront show at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay. Have a great evening under the stars and enjoy the amazing San Diego weather. Attending a performance at this popular venue is among the most popular San Diego activities, so be prepared to be wowed! No matter what type of music you like, there is something for everyone at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay. Spring shows at Humphreys include UB40, Chris Isaak, and Diana Krall. Plan to have dinner before the show at Humphreys SoCal Dining & Music or head back to Best Western Island Plus after the show for dinner and drinks at Blue Wave Bar & Grill.

Day 3

Morning

After an evening at Humphreys for a fabulous concert, have a leisurely morning and catch a few extra zzzz’s! Once you’re motivated, start your day with a specialty coffee and Breakfast Burrito to-go from Blue Wave and head out for a quick adventure along the waterfront. Take advantage of our complimentary two-hour bicycle rentals for guests and explore the paths along the bay. Enjoy the light breezes and beautiful scenery of Shelter Island to get your day started.

Afternoon

Plan an afternoon adventure at Balboa Park, one of the best things to do in San Diego during your 3-day weekend at Best Western Island Palms Hotel. Located just five miles from your hotel suite, this 1,200-acre green space has so much to see and do that you may have a hard time choosing the best San Diego activities for your day! Start with a visit to the park’s hotspots, including the Japanese Friendship Garden, the Fleet Science Center, and the Botanical Building & Lily Pond…and be sure to bring your camera for tons of amazing photo-ops! Since it’s now lunchtime, head over to The Prado, a fun, historic restaurant in Balboa Park that serves creative cocktails with a diverse menu. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy stunning views of Casa del Ray while you enjoy everything from Birria Tortas and Grilled Fish Tacos to Mushroom Risotto and Chicken Cobb Salads.

Evening

Spending the evening on the water is one of the best things to do in San Diego during your spring getaway to our coastal paradise. Flagship Cruises and Events offers a spectacular dinner cruise that is popular with locals and tourists in the area. Enjoy a delicious dinner aboard a luxury yacht with stunning views and scenery along the way. The evening starts off with a photo beside the yacht and a welcome toast with complimentary champagne. Dinner is prepared on board with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and will be served to you at your private table. Throughout the evening you will enjoy creative cocktails, dancing, and sightseeing under the stars. The perfect way to spend an evening in San Diego during your spring getaway!

Are you Ready to Plan the Perfect 3-Day Getaway to San Diego?

Make plans now to spend Memorial Day weekend at the Best Western Island Plus in San Diego. Our Shelter Island hotel has everything you need for the perfect spring beach getaway.

Be sure to take advantage of our Stay Longer & Save Offer to get the best deal possible for your spring and holiday travel by saving 15% off three nights or more at our Shelter Island Hotel. We look forward to seeing you this spring at the Best Western Plus Island Palms Hotel for your 3-day Memorial Day weekend getaway!