🇺🇸 San Diego 2-Day Itinerary | Travel Guide & Map

San Diego holds a special place in my heart — it’s where my American dream began 🌟. Nine years ago, as a college student on my first trip abroad, I spent a summer at UCSD. I was amazed by the perfect weather — sunny yet never too hot, something I’d never experienced back in China. Paired with stunning ocean views, it inspired me to sign my withdrawal from guaranteed graduate admission one night 🖊️, retake the TOEFL, and fully commit to studying abroad. But enough nostalgia… revisiting after nine years brought back so many memories. Here’s my revisited route (see attached map 🗺️). 📌 Day 1: 1️⃣ Geisel Library 🏛️ A must-see at UCSD — famous for its brutalist architecture. Raw concrete meets vast glass surfaces = major photo vibes! 📸 2️⃣ Salk Institute 🔬 An icon of modern architecture. Sadly, now requires booking 7 days ahead + ticket. You can still peek from outside though. 3️⃣ Black’s Beach 🏖️ Known as a clothing-optional beach (yes, really 👀). Mostly men, FYI. Steep hike down adds privacy. Also popular for paragliding! 🪂 4️⃣ San Diego California Temple ⛪ Gorgeous Mormon temple — currently under renovation. Check online before visiting! 5️⃣ UCSD Scripps Pier 🌅 Perfect for portraits + sunset photos. Often used for engagement and wedding shoots 💍. 6️⃣ La Jolla Cove 🦭 Stroll the coastal walkway — spot sea lions, seals, and gorgeous views. Small beach access for swimming too! 📌 Day 2: 7️⃣ USS Midway Museum 🚢 Tickets: $30 — allow half a day. Huge aircraft carrier with tons of rooms and exhibits. Don’t miss the flight simulators and tower tour! 8️⃣ Balboa Park 🌳 Another half-day (or full-day) worthy spot! Many free areas + museums. Must-sees: Lily Pond (filming location for K-drama The Heirs) International Cottages (especially the Nordic ones!) Fountains and botanical gardens 9️⃣ Coronado Beach 🏝️ Home of the historic Hotel del Coronado 🏨. Relax on the lawn, enjoy live music, swim, or surf! Great vibes all day. 🔟 Bonus Attractions (if time allows): SeaWorld 🐋 San Diego Zoo 🦒 Legoland 🧱 Potato Chip Rock 🥔 (hike required — a bit far from downtown) ✨ San Diego truly has it all: culture, nature, history, and endless sunshine. Perfect for a dream getaway! ☀️❤️ #San Diego #CaliforniaTravel #TravelGuide #USCD #WestCoast #HiddenGems #Itinerary