Day Trips from San Diego
Little Escapes from the City
One of my favorite things about living in San Diego is how easy it is to escape for the day - beach towns, mountain trails, and wine country are all just a quick drive away. Perfect for a spontaneous trip or a little reset.
Temecula
Temecula will always hold a special place in my heart - it’s where we had our wedding! Just an hour from San Diego, it’s one of those places that instantly feels peaceful, with rolling vineyards, warm sunsets, and that easy wine country charm.
Things to Do:
Spend the afternoon wine tasting at spots like Falkner (our wedding venue!), Ponte, South Coast Winery, Bottaia, or Avensole Winery
Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards at sunrise
Walk around Old Town Temecula for local boutiques and markets
Enjoy live music at a winery or stop by Europa Village for a European-style experience
Unwind with a spa treatment or stay the night at one of the vineyard resorts
Where to Eat:
Brunch at E.A.T. Marketplace or Cork | Fire Kitchen
Lunch with a view at Leoness Cellars
Dinner and wine pairings at The Goat & Vine or 1909
Grab dessert or coffee at Batter Up or Le Coffee Shop in Old Town
Julian
Julian is one of my favorite easy day trips from San Diego - a cozy little mountain town that feels straight out of a movie. It’s especially perfect in the fall, with crisp air, apple picking, and cute country shops along Main Street!
Things to Do:
Go apple picking at one of the local orchards (like Julian Farm & Orchard)
Stroll through Main Street for antique stores and local boutiques
Visit local bakeries and grab a cider flight at Julian Hard Cider
Hike Volcan Mountain Trail or Cuyamaca Rancho State Park for views of the valley
Where to Eat:
Try a classic apple pie from Julian Pie Company or Mom’s Pies
Brunch at Miner’s Diner
Grab a sandwich or soup from Julian Café & Bakery
BBQ and craft beer at Julian Beer Co.
Valle de Guadalupe
Valle de Guadalupe is one of my favorite weekend escapes - Mexico’s wine country just two hours from San Diego. It’s laid-back yet stunning, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and some of the best food and wine you’ll ever have. Check out my Baja page for more recommendations!
