It is funny how people react differently when the ladies say they want to travel alone, as opposed to guys saying it. For instance, a trip to San Diego has been on the back burner for a couple of months. In fact, all the “Things to do” and “What to expect” articles have all been read just to prepare. Then it seemed a work-free week reared its old head, and all that needs to be done is to pack for it. But what do you know, once family and friends were told about a solo trip, they all become extremely worried than excited about it. Understandably, you have to weight the pros and cons of solo travelling.
While it is completely understandable, it can be a bit annoying at the best of times and frustrating at the worst. But a solo female travel to San Diego is not such a bad idea. You can spend a much-deserved time lounging on the beach or at any of the mansions in San Diego you rented, or you can join in on tours and see more than a hundred key places of interest. Its perfect year-round mild climate means that you would not have to worry about getting caught in torrential rain, plus it offers various activities that you can actually choose if you want a sedentary San Diego trip or you want to explore the whole city.
Whatever you plan on doing on your solo female San Diego travel, this is the ultimate guide for you!
Table of Contents
What you should pack
Because the weather is mild, there really is no need to bring a raincoat with you. However, “mild” also means that it gets chilly sometimes especially when the wind is coming from the beach. Bring a cardigan with you, it is less bulky but it can provide a little warmth during cold days. In addition, if you plan on going to the beach (of course you are!), a long-sleeved rash guard would be perfect since it not only protects you from the cold, but it can also protect you from the sun when you are swimming. If you prefer a bikini or a one-piece suit, that would be perfect if you are going out to sea. For footwear, you can be as casual as you want. Bring your sneakers and flip-flops with you since these are more relaxing than heavy rubber shoes.
You can save money when you bring a reusable water bottle. Whenever you drop by a restaurant, you can have your bottle refilled for when you continue on with your tour. Bring your own snorkel gear too if you have it so that you can avoid renting old equipment from some of the shops.
Lastly, you have to bring photo equipment. San Diego is such a photogenic place, it would be a shame not to take advantage of it. Just remember that if you are planning to do a little street photography and want to include commuters, ask the people first if you can save and post their photos.
Tours to join to get around the city
It was not an exaggeration when we say there are more than a hundred places of interest in San Diego. More than just being the site for Comic-Con or a city where celebrities tend to retreat from the limelight, it is filled with places you definitely should visit. To get to all of it on your own may be a bit of a challenge, so the best choice is to join in tours. Here are a couple you might want to check out:
Old Town Trolley Tours
San Diego was one of the Spanish settlements in what was once called Upper California. In fact, the 21 missions built by the expedition, together with Franciscan friars, were a product of an attempt to fully colonize the area. With Old Town Trolley Tours, you can visit these historic sites, as well as see the first ever Spanish settlement. The best part is the tour is a hop-on, hop-off type — so if you want to wander on your own at any point of the tour, you can easily do so with them.
Balboa Park Tour
A San Diego trip would not be complete without a visit to Balboa Park. It is home to performing arts venues, stunning gardens, and about 15 museums. But more importantly, it is where the famous San Diego Zoo can be visited. Enjoy animal shows, tours through the miniature railroad, 4D Theatre, Skyfari, and more!
Point Loma or Mission Beach Tours
You have your choice of a laid-back beach scene with eclectic boutique shops, then you should join the Point Loma Tours. Anyway, being at a really chill beach is the best time to enjoy being alone to just enjoy the crystal blue waters of the beach. However, if you are more of a party girl, then the Mission Beach tours are for you. They can drop you off at any of the popular party beach sites with a vibrant nightlife.
Transportation
Most times, you will get frustrated with public transportation because it is almost non-existent. If you can spend for it, a cab is always the safest choice. You can also use the coasters or the bus to get around, but expect it to get crowded during the workday rush hours. But when all else fails, there is always Uber to help!
Honestly, there is no reason for you not to push through with your solo travel. San Diego is a city teeming with exciting activities that you can only fully enjoy when you are alone. So make your trip count and treat yourself to some much-needed solo travel!
