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.