4 day Trip to San Diego

Question

Hi y’all

I am traveling for a solo female 4 day trip to SD in 2 weeks

I am coming from New York and I really want to have a peaceful stay, away from crowds and be able to unwind

Do you recommend renting a car if I stay along one of the beaches? How’s the public transport? How’s the driving in SD, considering I don’t drive much in nyc.

Answer

For a solo 4-day trip to San Diego where your goal is to have a peaceful, relaxing stay near the beach, your accommodation choice and transportation plan will make a big difference.

Regarding car rental versus public transport:

Renting a car: If you stay along the beaches (La Jolla, Pacific Beach, or Coronado), having a car gives you flexibility to explore quieter spots, scenic coastal drives, and attractions outside the immediate area at your own pace. Parking can be tricky in popular areas, especially in the summer, but early mornings usually have available spaces. Traffic in San Diego is generally lighter than NYC, though you may encounter congestion during morning and evening commutes, especially on I-5 or I-8.
Public transportation: San Diego’s public transit includes buses and trolleys, but coverage is limited for scenic or beach areas. Trolley service is useful mainly in downtown, Old Town, Mission Valley, and to some parts of the airport. Buses exist for most neighborhoods, but routes can be infrequent, making it less convenient for a beach-focused, peaceful trip.

Additional considerations:

If you prefer minimal stress and crowds, staying in La Jolla or Coronado might be ideal. Both offer calm beaches, local cafes, and nice walking areas. La Jolla is more upscale and quieter, while Coronado has a charming small-town feel and a wide beach with easy walking paths.
If you don’t drive much and prefer avoiding traffic stress, you could combine a centrally located beach stay with occasional rideshares (Uber/Lyft) for excursions to downtown, Balboa Park, or other neighborhoods.
San Diego is generally safe for solo travelers, but basic precautions at night and in less populated areas are recommended.

Suggested approach for your trip:

Stay near one of the calmer beaches (La Jolla or Coronado) for a relaxing base.
Rent a car if you want full flexibility to explore surrounding areas, drive scenic routes like Sunset Cliffs, or visit more remote beaches.
Use rideshares for occasional trips to downtown or nightlife, especially if you prefer not to park in busy areas.
Plan beach walks, local cafes, and quiet spots in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

Overall, a car is helpful but not strictly necessary if you are content staying in a compact area and using rideshares. Driving is manageable, but if you prefer a stress-free, relaxing pace without navigating traffic, relying on rideshares might suit you better for a solo getaway.

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