San Diego, California is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. With its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and endless attractions, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to this city every year.
But how much does a vacation to San Diego really cost? Let’s take a closer look.
Accommodations
One of the biggest expenses you’ll encounter when planning a trip to San Diego is accommodations. Depending on your budget and travel dates, you can find a variety of options ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury hotels. On average, you can expect to pay around $150-$200 per night for a mid-range hotel room in San Diego.
If you’re looking to save some money on accommodations, consider booking through Airbnb or VRBO. These websites offer vacation rentals at a lower cost than traditional hotels and can be more comfortable for families or larger groups.
Transportation
Getting around San Diego can be quite expensive if you plan on renting a car. Rental cars can cost upwards of $50 per day, not including gas and parking fees.
If you’re staying in the downtown area, consider using public transportation such as buses or trolleys. A day pass for the trolley costs around $5 and can take you to many popular attractions throughout the city.
Food & Drink
San Diego has no shortage of amazing restaurants and bars, but dining out can add up quickly. On average, expect to spend around $15-$20 per person for breakfast and lunch and $25-$50 per person for dinner at a mid-range restaurant.
To save money on food expenses while traveling in San Diego, consider packing snacks or making use of grocery stores if your accommodation has a kitchenette. Also look out for happy hour deals at restaurants which are usually from 4-6 pm where drinks are half-priced and appetizers are discounted.
Attractions
San Diego has a plethora of attractions to visit, from the San Diego Zoo to Legoland to SeaWorld. Depending on which attractions you’d like to visit, ticket prices can range from $20-$100 per person.
If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, consider purchasing a CityPASS which offers admission to several popular attractions at a discounted rate.
Overall Cost
So, how much does a vacation to San Diego cost? It really depends on your travel style and budget.
On average, expect to spend around $1500-$2000 for a week-long trip for two people. This includes accommodations, transportation, food and drink expenses, and attraction tickets.
Tips for Saving Money
To save money on your trip to San Diego, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when hotel rates are lower and crowds are thinner. Also look out for deals on travel websites or through credit card rewards programs.
Another way to save money is by planning ahead and making reservations for restaurants or attractions in advance. Many places offer discounts for booking ahead of time.
In conclusion, San Diego is definitely worth the cost if you’re looking for a fun-filled vacation with plenty of things to see and do. With some careful planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that this amazing city has to offer without breaking the bank.