The Great 48: San Diego, California

Have time for a weekend golf trip and want to make the most of it? Let us show you where to land, where to stay,and where to play while you’re in a new city. We’ll make sure you don’t go hungry or thirsty.

GETTING THERE: SAN

San Diego International is one of the most dramatic airports you’ll ever fly into. Located just north of downtown San Diego, the airport sits next to bustling San Diego Harbor. It’s the busiest single-runway facility in the United States. The airport’s location makes it easy to get where you want to go when you arrive.

A QUICK BITE: Donut Bar

This only works if you touchdown in the morning. The Donut Bar makes a variety of sweet treats that are so popular, they’re typically gone by noontime. The original downtown location is a hoot, but if you’re just looking to try a pastry, you can always visit their new airport location.

TWILIGHT ROUND: Coronado

Sometimes you run across a golf course that you just have to play. Coronado is one of those. It’s one of the busiest courses in the San Diego area, but the views of San Diego harbor and downtown will keep you entertained. Read more about this spectacular course on Page 22.

WHERE TO STAY: Mission Beach

This area of San Diego is iconic and should not be missed. Luther’s Vacation Rentals has options up and down Mission Beach. Whether you want to be on the bay or have a view of the setting sun, you’ll find something on vacationrentalsmissionbeach.com.

THE LONG DAY: Rancho Bernardo

Despite being in the middle of a residential neighborhood, this course feels like an escape. Lush fairways and fast greens await players in the hills outside San Diego. The championship course has played host to both PGA and LPGA events, offering a great challenge for amateur players.

ONE LAST ROUND: Torrey Pines

Sure, you could play both courses in one day, but if you’re trying just to hit the iconic South Course, a twilight round is the way to go. If you’ve only seen the course on television, you’ll be shocked by the elevation changes and stunning beauty of the ocean-side holes. Make your tee time up to 60 days in advance.

DINNER TIME: Spirit of San Diego

Flagship Cruises and Events offers a variety of cruises that give you the chance to relax and learn a little bit about the historic San Diego harbor. If you choose a dining cruise, you’ll also be treated to a delicious meal while you float near naval ships and sandy beaches.

LOCAL ICON: Unconditional Surrender

This statue was inspired by the famous photo of a soldier and nurse at the end of World War II. The Unconditional Surrender statue stands along San Diego’s Embarcadero, a waterfront area of downtown that underscores the city’s love affair with the sea.

OFF COURSE ACTIVITIES: SeaWorld San Diego

Spread across 190 acres on beautiful Mission Bay Park, SeaWorld is known for its amazing animals, interactive attractions, aquariums, rides, beautiful landscaping and education programs for all ages. To see it all, you really need a full day in the park. The excitement starts as soon as you walk under the iconic wave sculpture and find yourself greeted by a hands-on exhibit that’s fun for young and old. In addition to the world famous orca and dolphin shows, SeaWorld features marine creatures from around the world and a variety of rides that will thrill the entire family.

San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is a must-see attraction. Located just outside downtown, this urban masterpiece features ecosystems from around the world along with all the unique animals that come with them. Guests can enjoy gorillas, Komodo dragons, tigers, flamingos, mandrills, polar bears, birds of paradise, giant tortoises, elephants, pandas, koalas, and more. Enjoy a guided tour on a double-decker bus or an aerial view from Skyfari, and dine in the peaceful surroundings of Albert’s Restaurant.