Baseball Weekend with my Grandson

Question

My grandson (age 11) and I (65) are going to be in San Diego for a baseball game on August 10th. We are staying at the Omni. We should arrive at the hotel around noon on Friday and leave on Monday. Thinking we hit the hotel around noon on Friday and then head over to Coronado via the ferry to grab a bite, bike, shop and catch dinner before heading back to the hotel. On Saturday we are unscheduled. I am thinking of hiring a driver (I really don't want to drive us around) to take us to Mission Bay and Torrey Pines that day. Thinking beach, boardwalks, hikes, shopping, eating out. We both love the outdoors. Can we make a day of that? Does a hiring a driver for the day make sense?

I am open to other ideas for that Saturday. I don't really want to do the Zoo, or Lego Land.

Answer

Your plan for a baseball weekend with your grandson in San Diego sounds fantastic! With your interests—outdoors, light hiking, biking, shopping, and relaxing by the water—there’s plenty to fill a day without needing to drive yourself.

Friday Afternoon – Coronado:

Taking the ferry from downtown San Diego to Coronado is a scenic, fun way to start. You can grab lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants near the ferry landing.
Biking around Coronado is easy and enjoyable; the hotel area, the beachfront, and small shops downtown are all accessible.
For dinner, consider something casual with good views, like Peohe’s or Il Fornaio on the waterfront.

Saturday – Mission Bay & Torrey Pines:

Hiring a driver for the day is a practical idea, especially since parking at popular spots like Torrey Pines State Reserve and certain Mission Bay beaches can be limited. A driver also allows you to hop between stops without worrying about navigation or traffic.
At Mission Bay, you can walk along the boardwalk, rent a paddleboard or pedal boat, or just enjoy a relaxed beachside picnic.
Torrey Pines offers excellent hiking trails suitable for a 65-year-old and an 11-year-old; the Beach Trail down to the sand is scenic without being overly strenuous.
Lunch or dinner options nearby include casual seafood spots or café-style restaurants along La Jolla or Del Mar areas if you want to extend your exploration.

Other Suggestions for Saturday:

La Jolla Cove – See sea lions and walk along the coastline; a short and kid-friendly hike along the coastal path is possible.
Sunset Cliffs – A quick scenic drive or stop for photos with dramatic ocean views.
Old Town San Diego – Offers a historic vibe, shops, and casual Mexican food, great for a quick cultural stop.
Balboa Park Gardens or small walking trails – Offers a tranquil option if you prefer something low-key but still outdoors.

Overall, yes—you can definitely make a full day out of Mission Bay and Torrey Pines with a hired driver. It allows flexibility, reduces stress, and maximizes your enjoyment of outdoor activities without worrying about parking or navigating busy streets. For the rest of the weekend, focusing on your baseball game and nearby attractions like Coronado and La Jolla keeps travel minimal and fun.

Baseball Weekend with my Grandson

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