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San Diego

Located in Southern California, United States, San Diego is famous for its idyllic climate, 70 miles of pristine beaches, and a dazzling array of world-class family attractions. Known as the "birthplace of California," it offers a plethora of activities such as visiting historic sites like the charming Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, the engaging USS Midway Museum and the exquisite Balboa Park. It is also home to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park, offering an up-close experience with exotic wild animals. Its vibrant dining scene, surf culture, and Mexico-influenced art and architecture also add to its allure, making it a magnet for tourists worldwide.

3.9 /5

Based on our research

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Safety:Very safe

San Diego is generally very safe for solo female travelers. The city is clean, locals are friendly, and it's known for its relaxed southern California vibe. Like any place, caution is advised to maintain safety -- travel in well-lit and populated areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Downtown and popular tourist areas can get crowded, which can pose a risk for theft, so it's recommended to keep your personal belongings secure. Public transportation and ride-sharing services are easy to use and are generally safe. However, always trust your instinct. If a situation or a person makes you uncomfortable, there's no harm in removing yourself from that scenario. With the right precautions, a solo trip to San Diego can be a safe and memorable experience.

Transport:Easy

San Diego is relatively easy to navigate, thanks to its layout. The downtown area is very walkable and there's a well-networked public transportation system that includes buses and light rail trolleys. Bike sharing is also popular here. However, like many US cities, having a rental car can make travel easier outside the city center. But during high-traffic times, finding parking can be difficult. Be careful about your personal safety while traveling, especially at night.

Things to do:Interesting

San Diego is packed with picturesque beaches, gorgeous parks, and a thriving culinary scene. You will delight in exploring attractions such as the famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park and USS Midway Museum. Feeling adventurous? Try surfing on La Jolla Beach or hiking Torrey Pines. For food enthusiasts, the city offers a vast array of globally influenced cuisine, from Mexican to Japanese. Though it lacks the 24/7 city life of places like New York, its natural beauty and more laid-back pace make for a relaxing and engaging trip.

Food:Above average

San Diego offers a diverse spectrum of culinary delights- with a focus on Mexican, Japanese and Seafood. Fresh ingredients and innovative takes on classic dishes are commonplace. Specialties like fish tacos are a must-try. However, it falls short of cities like Los Angeles or New York in terms of international cuisine diversity.

Budget:Moderate

San Diego is moderately budget-friendly. While accommodations, especially near the city center and coastal areas, can be quite expensive, many major attractions like Balboa Park and the stunning beaches are free to visit. The city offers plenty of inexpensive dining and public transportation options, so careful planning can help keep expenditures low.

Family travel experience

I really enjoyed my time we stayed in an air bnb in sunset cliffs the running was awesome along the ocean the weather was perfect I loved loved it With the exchange things cost about the same Oscillato desert was so hot and fun of roading was the best, the Mexican food so good

Posted: December 27, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5

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Trisha

United States

San Diego is a great place to visit as a solo female. It’s safe, great food and 99%of the time perfect weather. It’s the best best weather in the USA. I will give you lots of tips. It’s fun telling passengers flying into SD things to do. I have lived here for 7 yrs!

Posted: November 28, 2023

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This city is so much fun! The beaches are the best and we have the best Mexican food as well! So many things to do if you’ve never been! Everything from the San Diego Zoo to Belmont Amusement Park that is right next to the beach.

Posted: October 25, 2023

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I recommend the following: 1) Spend the entire day at Balboa Park, walking around its grounds, gardens, and visiting museums. Have lunch at Panama 66 or go to Cucina Urbana. 2) Head over to the Sunset Cliffs at sunset for a walk and drink a cocktail at Wonderland. 3) Visit the Azúcar bakery in Ocean Beach and try their guava and cheese products as well as Cuban coffee. Come early in the morning when the pastries are still warm! 4) If you’re there on a Saturday, start your morning in the Little Italy district and discover the local Mercato Farmers Market. There are numerous dining options there, and you'll be within walking distance of the bay, the USS Midway museum, Unconditional Surrender statue and so on. 5) My favourite beach is Coronado, but Pacific Beach and Mission Beach also have nice promenades and attractions. 6) For a true local culinary experience, eat an early lunch at Las Cuatro Milpas (the line starts forming around 10 am). Their tacos are out of this world. Nearby is also Chicano Park. Extraordinary Desserts (Union St location) is also worth visiting. 7) Try visiting La Jolla Cove and go hiking at Torrey Pines.

Posted: June 29, 2022

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Meet local women in San Diego who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Mayara

About Me

I’m a Brazilian lawyer currently living in San Diego and about to start a master program. During this time living abroad from my country, I’ve been connecting with several cultures among my friends and exchanging language and life experiences, which it’s invaluable to me.

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Maribel

About Me

hola! i’m originally from Mexico City but live in San Diego, California. i love traveling and submerging myself in different cultures. i’m all about meeting new people, getting lost while exploring, eating delicious food, and giving back whenever possible. i work in digital marketing so my work goes wherever i go! i consider myself and open-minded, adventurous, kind, compassionate, and fun person.

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Stay with local women in San Diego who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.