5-Day San Diego to Joshua Tree Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day at Balboa Park, home to numerous museums, gardens, and cultural institutions. Spend the morning exploring the park's attractions.

Visit the renowned San Diego Zoo, located within Balboa Park. The zoo is home to thousands of animals from around the world. Enjoy lunch at one of the zoo's cafes or restaurants.

In the evening, head to Old Town San Diego for a glimpse into the city's history. Explore historic buildings and enjoy dinner at Phil's BBQ - Point Loma, famous for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes.

Start your day with a relaxing visit to Mission Beach. Take a stroll along the boardwalk or enjoy some beach activities.

Explore Seaport Village, a waterfront shopping and dining complex. Have lunch at one of the charming eateries in Seaport Village.

Visit Coronado in the evening. Walk along Coronado Beach and take in the beautiful sunset views. For dinner, try Ironside Fish & Oyster, known for its fresh seafood.

Begin your day with a visit to Cabrillo National Monument. This monument offers panoramic views of San Diego Bay and has several hiking trails.

Head over to La Jolla Cove for some stunning coastal scenery. Enjoy lunch at Oscars Mexican Seafood - Hillcrest, which is famous for its fish tacos.

Conclude your day with a visit to Little Italy San Diego. Explore this vibrant neighborhood filled with Italian restaurants and shops. For dinner, dine at Lucha Libre Taco Shop - Mission Hills.

Start your day early with a visit to Joshua Tree National Park. Begin with a hike on the Hidden Valley Trail, a popular 1-mile loop that offers stunning views of rock formations and desert flora. This trail is perfect for all skill levels and provides an excellent introduction to the park's unique landscape.

After your morning hike, head to the Cholla Cactus Garden. This area is filled with thousands of cholla cacti and offers a short walking trail where you can admire these fascinating plants up close. Enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the designated areas within the park.

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Keys View for breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley, San Andreas Fault, and even Mexico on clear days. The sunset here is truly spectacular and provides a perfect end to your day in Joshua Tree. For dinner, head back into town and dine at one of the local eateries such as Pappy & Harriet's Pioneertown Palace, known for its live music and hearty meals.