Everything You Need to Know Before Coming to San Diego

Overwhelmed trying to plan your trip to San Diego? Let me help! I’m Local Wally, the original San Diego local guy whose been helping visitors like you since 1996. Below are San Diego’s frequently asked questions - and if you need personal help just click the button to be transported to my Facebook Group page where I’ll personally respond. And sure, go ahead and post your experiences and photos there too. And now, the FAQ’s.

When Should We Visit and What is June Gloom?

January - February: Our low season with possible rain. We don’t get weather extremes here so while locals might complain there are plenty of visitors happy as clams to be outside with a jacket on versus snow and storms where they’re from.

March - May: Typically good weather, not too hot but sunny. The ocean will be too cold for swimming for all but the dedicated.

June: By the end of May we get June Gloom on the coast. Overcast skies every morning and returning at sunset. If you’re here and visiting a beach during the day, no problem, but if you’re planning a beach-centric vacation there are better months.

July-August: Great weather but higher hotel rates, especially in July when Comic-Con comes to town.

September-November: Tourists wind down, this is Local’s Summer when the weather is just perfect, the water temps great, and the crowds thin out.

Late November-December: Though the air can get crisp we typically BBQ on Thanksgiving and walk on the beach on Christmas Day.

Is San Diego Safe?

Considering that San Diego is the second largest city in California and the eighth largest in the US, it’s considered very safe. The tourist areas like Gaslamp and downtown are well patrolled and the neighborhoods and coastal areas have very little crime.

Still, like every large city you will run into homeless people in some areas around downtown if you wander into the outskirts. Just stick to the tourist spots and use common sense.

Is it Safe to Visit Tijuana or Mexico?

The classic day trip to Tijuana for tacos and a photo with a zebra painted donkey requires a bit more caution in 2026. While it is generally “safe” for tourists there’s no denying that the active drug cartel has no issue ruining your vacation if you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time. Still, I love going to Mexico and Baja so if you want to avoid a “Breaking Bad” experience go with a tour group and you should be just fine.

TIJUANA TOURS | PUERTO NUEVO LOBSTER TOUR | BAJA WINE TASTING

What to Pack and What to Wear in San Diego

San Diego is pretty casual so there’s no need to bring fancy clothes unless you are going to the clubs in the Gaslamp District and want to stand out. For most visitors the key is to dress comfortably and to wear good shoes as you’ll most likely be doing plenty of walking. Dress in layers as the weather can fluctuate, especially around the coast.

Even going to a fancy restaurant rarely requires anything dressier than smart casual. Suits are for business meetings and you’re on vacation so leave them at home.

How Do I Get Around San Diego and Will I Need a Car?

San Diego is pretty spread out so plan on renting a car if you want to see it all. If you just want to see the sights you can do the very touristy but very convenient Hop on/Hop off Old Town Trolley which will take you from Old Town to Coronado with key stops in-between. The official red trolleys can get you from downtown to Old Town and now as far north as La Jolla’s fancy UTC shopping mall (great restaurant destination) but not to the beaches. If you want to visit North County beach towns like Carlsbad or Encinitas you can ride the Amtrak Coaster and beat the traffic.

If you’re renting a car don’t worry about crazy SoCal driving - that’s highly exaggerated.

Where is the San Diego Airport?

Landing in San Diego is thrilling as you fly right over Balboa Park and seemingly in between the high rises. And unlike other cities where the airport is far away from everything in San Diego we put our airport right in the middle of the good stuff, literally minutes from downtown and the Convention Center and right on the bay. Car rentals are a short shuttle ride away.

My suggestion is you get your car then make your first stop Old Town where there’s a frosty margarita and a free basket of chips with salsa waiting for you. You deserve it!

What are the Top Beaches in San Diego?

While locals all have their favorites for a visitor the top beach is most likely the one that’s closest to you - more beach time, less drive time, right? The centrally located top beaches are Coronado (very wide and sandy with few rip currents), Mission Beach (classic boardwalk setting with historic wooden roller coaster), Pacific Beach (local vibe), and La Jolla Shores (large sandy stretch and popular with families).

From Del Mar to Oceanside you’ll find plenty of local beaches that are far less crowded. Del Mar Powerhouse, Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach, Cardiff State Beach, Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, Tamarack State Beach in Carlsbad, and the beaches near the Oceanside pier are all top notch.

I’m a Foodie - What are San Diego’s Signature Dishes?

While San Diego is know for our great seafood the two dishes that we’re most proud of are the California Burrito and the Fish Taco. The California Burrito is filled with carne asada and french fries, cheese and either guacamole or sour cream, and was 100% invented by someone in San Diego - who did it first is a debate but go to any Roberto’s Taco Shop (or any taco shop really) and get one and it will blow your mind.

The fish taco originated in Baja but it was San Diegan Ralph Rubio who brought it to the masses. Once thought of as “weird” it’s now on every menu across the US and you can thank San Diego for that.

I’ve Heard San Diego has a Great Beer Scene. Where Should I Go?

San Diego’s brewery scene is one of the top in the nation, home to big names like Stone Brewing, AleSmith and Ballast Point, all worth visiting. Or head to The Church, a tasting room inside an actual renovated church by The Lost Abbey where you can repent your sins while sipping a hoppy IPA like their hazy Jesus, Mary & Joseph. Pure Project has multiple convenient locations including one near Balboa Park and has empanada’s for snacking. And while San Diego is home to West Coast IPA’s you’ll find plenty of lagers and blondes and others to keep even the most casual beer fan happy. Over 150 breweries so there’s most likely a brewery near you right now.