Commonly Asked Questions About Your San Diego Vacation

While we’ll admit that we’re a bit biased, we’re pretty sure everyone would agree that San Diego is a fantastic place to visit. And while most folks know that our weather is perfect, our beaches are beautiful, and we have more than our fair share of fantastic museums, restaurants, and attractions, there are nevertheless still a lot of things people have questions about when it comes to “America’s Finest City.” In light of that, we thought we’d compile something of a primer for those considering a San Diego vacation.

Have any questions? Read on for your San Diego FAQ.

Q: What’s the weather like in San Diego?

(Photo: @visitsandiego)

A: We’re glad you asked. The weather in San Diego is legendarily mild and comfortable, with temperatures typically ranging from 60°F – 80°F all year. There are usually warm sea breezes well into evening, and the city receives around 266 days of sunshine per year (well above the national average). Here in San Diego, locals refer to our spring with the terms, May Gray and June Gloom. For some reason, although temps hover around the 68 °F – 70 °F average in May, we often have cloudy skies, so pack light jackets in addition to your beachwear in these two months!

In short, there’s simply never a bad time to visit.

Q: When is the best time to visit San Diego?

A: Well that depends on what criteria you are looking for.

Best Weather: Our best weather is mid-summer to early fall. Our warmest time of year is usually August to October, which is great for heading to the beach or bay!

Looking to Avoid Crowds: Summer crowds usually depart after Labor Day as school is back in session, making early October a great time to visit. You can still enjoy the warm summer-like weather, but with less lines at local attractions and quieter beaches!

Activities & Events: While these things happen year round, summer tends to be peak season for major events like San Diego Pride Festival, Comic-Con, the County Fair and numerous festivals. Winter is also a fun time as Christmas celebrations pop up all over town, such as Balboa Park’s December Nights, Liberty Station’s Holiday pop-up, Ice-Skating by the beach in Coronado, and many others!

In short, there’s simply never a bad time to visit.

Q: What type of clothing should I pack?

(Photo: @anete_lusina)

A: That somewhat depends on where you’re from and what time of year you plan to be here. Admittedly, while many Southern Californians might consider a 65°F December day to be a bit chilly, a guest from Minnesota might be tempted to break out shorts and sandals. Overall, it’s probably a good idea to pack for spring or summer temperatures. Just be sure to bring a hoodie or sweater in case the mercury dips with the sun.

Q: What should I know about San Diego’s beaches?

(Photo: @neilsoniphotography)

A: Thanks to more than 70 miles of coastline in the metro, there’s a beach here for everyone. Whether you want to take in a sunset, go for a swim, commune with wildlife, or just work on your tan, San Diego has your back. Not sure where to start? Check out “A Beach for Every Lifestyle” from our colleagues at sister property Humphreys Half Moon Inn to discover which local beach best fits your mood.

Q: I won’t have a car when I visit. Will that be a problem?

(Photo: @downtownworks)

A: Not at all! San Diego is well-served by several local transit systems, including buses, shuttles, and even light rail. Check out “How to Get Around San Diego Without a Car” from our colleagues at Best Western Island Palms for a handy overview.

Q: What’s the restaurant scene like in San Diego?

(Photo: @lola55_sandiego)

A: Nothing short of one of the best in the country. As both a coastal city with an active port and a border town with a strong sense of international identity, San Diego has long been a rich blend of global cultures. Not only does that make its residents some of the most diverse in the nation, but it also means that our world cuisines are incredibly varied, deeply authentic, and nothing short of mind-blowingly delicious. No matter what you’re in the mood for — Asian, Mediterranean, Italian, Indian, or some of the best Mexican food anywhere in the U.S. — San Diego has you covered. Make sure to also check out our onsite restaurant, Bunz, for the best burger in town! Take a look at our previous post “Guide to San Diego’s Best World Cuisines” for other delicious options.

Q: Is San Diego an expensive city to visit?

(Photo: @lucasfonesca)

A: Comparatively, no. To be fair, while the cost of living in any coastal town is going to be noticeably higher than the national average, San Diego visitors and residents alike are often surprised at how reasonable San Diego can be — especially in contrast to some other California cities which shall remain nameless. We feel as though our museums, restaurants, theme parks, and other attractions are very fairly priced, especially given the quality of life you’ll experience in a world-class beach city with such a pleasant climate. In fact, if you’re looking for some low-cost things to do while here, check out our recent post, “Fun and Free Things to Do in San Diego,” for some inspo.

Q: How far is Days Inn from popular San Diego points of interest?

(Photo: @solyartphotos)

A: Days Inn By Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle is conveniently close to many of the theme parks, museums, beaches, and other unique area attractions many visitors hope to experience during their stay. Here’s a quick breakdown of how close you’ll be to some of the most popular:

Old Town: 4002 Wallace St San Diego, CA 92110 — 2.2 miles
San Diego Museum of Art: 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102 — 3.3 miles
Balboa Park: 1549 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101 — 4.5 miles
Petco Park: 100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101 — 4.6 miles
San Diego Natural History Museum: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 – 4.6 miles
Fleet Science Center: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101 — 4.7 miles
San Diego Zoo: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 — 4.9 miles
SeaWorld San Diego: 500 SeaWorld Dr, San Diego, CA 92109 — 5.3 miles
USS Midway Museum: 910 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 — 5.4 miles
Barrio Logan: Cesar Chavez Pkwy & Main St, San Diego — 5.6 miles
Seaport Village: 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 — 5.8 miles
Belmont Park: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109 — 5.8 miles
Gaslamp Quarter: 199 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 — 6.4 miles
Cabrillo National Monument: 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106 — 10.7 miles
Scripps Pier: 8650 Kennel Way, La Jolla, CA 92037 — 10.9 miles
Birch Aquarium: 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037 — 12.3 miles
Torrey Pines State Reserve: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037 — 17.3 miles

Q: Is Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle Near Sea World pet friendly?

A: We are proud to be a pet friendly San Diego hotel. Bring your four legged buddies with you on your next San Diego adventure! Upon check-in, your furry friend will be greeted with a welcome bag, complete with “Dog in Room” door hanger, all natural dog bones, and doggie waste bags. Check out our pet policy!

Q: Any tips on where I should stay during my trip to San Diego?

A: Well, this is an easy one! Again, perhaps our bias is showing a bit, but Days Inn By Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle is a fantastic choice for accommodations during your visit to “America’s Finest City.” Not only are we centrally located and just minutes from everywhere you want to be, but thanks to guest-first services and amenities like our complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness center, heated pool, hot tub, and on-site eatery Bunz: A Burger Joint, our Mission Valley hotel is a destination unto itself. So if you’re planning a trip to San Diego, don’t miss your chance to check out our Special Offers page and choose the money-saving travel deal that’s right for you.