The Perfect 2-Day RV Itinerary for San Diego, CA

By Megan Buemi
Two-Day Itineraries

San Diego seems to have an endless coastline, and during an RV trip to this city, you’ll get to dip your toes in the cool Pacific water and appreciate the cliffs along the ocean. Locals are treated to nice weather throughout the year, so you can plan your trip for any month. Two days in San Diego give you plenty of time to learn about the history of the region, go shopping or try out some restaurants, and spend a lot of time outdoors.

Renting an RV will give you some flexibility during your visit. You’ll have your own means of transportation, and you’ll have your own lodging, too. After a long day spent out and about in San Diego, you’ll appreciate coming back to a cozy, comfortable campsite.

Search RV rentals in the San Diego area.

Preparing for Your San Diego RV Trip

At RVshare, we offer a variety of RVs, ranging from smaller Class B models that are ideal for a couple of people to larger Class A and Class C vehicles. After searching through the RVs available in San Diego, reserve an RV that meets your needs. Whether you’re looking for a full kitchen, a place that sleeps eight or 10, or any other special features, you’ll be able to find something that will work well for what you have planned.

If you’d like more information about RVs, read through these helpful guides.
The basics of renting an RV
An RV sizing guide
Parking tips
Packing tips

During your two days in San Diego, think about whether you’d like to stay at an RV campsite that’s by the water or somewhere inland, perhaps in a place with a view of the hills. The Mission Bay RV Resort and Fiddler’s Cove Marina & RV Park are two options that put you close to the Pacific Ocean. The Fiddler’s Cove campground is reserved for members of the military. You can also explore RV campgrounds offering specific amenities such as swimming pools or laundry facilities. For more specific and in-depth guidance, check out our tips on finding the perfect campground.

Find other campground options in our comprehensive list of top-rated campgrounds in San Diego.

Day 1: Appreciate Nature

Morning: Hit the Beach

Watch the waves crash at Mission Beach. This beach offers numerous amenities, including restrooms, volleyball courts, bike rentals, and a lively boardwalk featuring rides and miniature golf.

Lunch: The Mission

After the beach, stop by The Mission. This urban bistro serves breakfast and lunch items like egg scrambles, French toast, and croissant sandwiches.

Afternoon: San Diego Zoo

A trip to the San Diego Zoo is a must for your San Diego itinerary. The zoo is renowned for its diverse collection of animals, ranging from baboons and hippos to koalas and other exotic creatures.

Setting Up Camp

Upon arrival at your RV campground, check in with a staff member, and follow their directions to your campsite. Take the time to hook things up, unpack your things, and set everything up for the night. If you’d rather save time and have someone else set up your RV for you, that can easily be arranged. Many RV owners who list vehicles on our site offer delivery. You just have to show up at the campground and you’ll find your RV rental waiting for you. To take advantage of this perk, filter for delivery options when searching for a rental RV.

Dinner: Dine In or Take Out at Liberty Public Market

At Liberty Public Market, which is open every day, you can purchase a wide range of food and beverage items. You might want to pick up some fresh produce, meat, or dairy products from the market so that you’ll have everything you need to prepare dinner at your RV campsite. Otherwise, grab a table and ready-to-eat items for a quick, easy meal.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences

Morning: California Surf Museum

A trip to the California Surf Museum can teach you about the history of the surfing industry, which is heavily tied to Southern California. Appreciate the surfboards on display and the pictures that document some amazing waves.

Lunch: Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen

The Flying Pig Pub & Kitchen serves charcuterie, sandwiches, burgers, and some classic Southern dishes, along with craft beer and cocktails. It has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Afternoon: Mission Basilica San Diego De Alcalá

The Spaniards established more than 20 missions in California. Spend an afternoon at California’s first mission, Mission Basilica San Diego De Alcalá, founded in 1769. It’ll give you an idea of what life was like in the region hundreds of years before the interstate highway and big box stores were built around it.

Evening: Coronado Island

Watch the sunset from the Hotel del Coronado, a favorite spot of celebrities and a setting for many feature films. You can also visit the shops, beaches, and local restaurants located around the hotel.

Day 3 and Beyond in San Diego

Are you interested in extending your trip to San Diego for a few more days? If so, you’ll have the opportunity to check out these attractions.

Gaslamp Quarter. This trendy neighborhood is where you’ll find shops, clubs, restaurants, and boutique stores.
Balboa Park. This 1,200-acre site is home to an extensive network of trails as well as gardens, landmarks, and museums.
Petco Park. Depending on when you visit, you may be able to catch a San Diego Padres baseball game at Petco Park.

Summer Activities

Renting an RV in the summer lets you take advantage of long, sunny days in San Diego. To stay cool, check out Waterfront Park, where there’s a huge splash pad. San Diego hosts many events in the summer, including the San Diego Brew Festival in June and the Big Bay Boom fireworks display on Independence Day.

Indoor Activities

If you’d like to hang out indoors, you’ll find a variety of activities to choose from. You can go swimming at The Plunge, which is one of the largest indoor pools in Southern California. Another interesting site is the USS Midway, a retired aircraft carrier with several indoor hangar exhibits and below-deck exhibits.

San Diego has so much to offer, and renting an RV can be a perfect way to explore the area. Reserve one of the RVs available in San Diego through RVshare, pack up your gear, and have fun seeing the sights. You’ll likely be very busy during your two days in San Diego, so you’ll appreciate relaxing at your campground at night.