Arguably one of the nicest drives to be had in the southern California area of the United States is the ride down to San Diego from Los Angeles. A 120-mile drive from the southern California hotspot, the journey will take you down Interstate 5 for the majority of your trip, making the driving simple, straightforward and a great build up to the fun and relaxation that await in San Diego.
The journey to San Diego takes you down the coast of southern California, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of LA and embracing what many people flock to California for - the beaches. The I5 takes you right along the coast, bringing in the ocean air as you head to the city of San Diego, a popular stop-off on the way to Mexico, but a city that's worth a visit anyway.
San Diego is packed with attractions and places to go to give you a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. Perhaps one of the region's best know trips for tourists is the famous Sea World, where visitors can catch a glimpse of all that is amazing from under the sea. Shamu, the killer whale, is the park's most famous resident and the shows Shamu Rocks and Believe (which star the killer whale) are among the most popular attractions at Sea World San Diego.
Sea lions and dolphins, along with the more domesticated likes of cats and dogs, all have their shows at Sea World, while the Shark Encounter and Penguin Encounter bring visitors closer to the animals than many have been before. This means there is something to enjoy for all the family at the park.
Staying on the animal theme, the city of San Diego is also home to the San Diego Zoo, one of America's best known zoos. It is situated on Zoo Drive in Balboa Park, the cultural park that houses 15 museums. Amphibians, birds, mammals, reptiles and insects from across the globe star at the zoo, meaning there is sure to be something to impress or captivate all visitors.
The Museum of San Diego History, the San Diego Museum of Art and the Japanese Friendship Garden are just three of the cultural attractions in Balboa Park, suggesting these are not to be missed too.
Something San Diego does brilliantly is food. With the city being so close to Mexico, great-tasting Mexican dishes are everywhere, some for prices that alone make your mouth water. Why not tuck into an authentic burrito, or opt for a high quality quesadilla for something different?
Candelas, situated on 3rd Avenue, is the pick of the Mexican eateries, according to website San Diego Restaurants, while for something a little cheaper La Fiesta on 5th or El Agave on San Diego Avenue could prove the pick of the bunch.
Following a delicious meal, a stroll along the beachfront is a must and Mission Beach, part of a two-mile stretch of beaches called the Strand, is a great spot to watch the water and take an evening stroll.