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San Diego Getaway

Plan Your Trip to the San Diego Coast

By , About.com Guide

Seaworld San Diego

Fun at Seaworld in San Diego

© Judy Hedding

Are there any of you who have been working too hard? Feeling stress? Do you feel like you can't take one more day of this heat? Or do you find yourself daydreaming about sunbathing on the beach (don't forget the sunscreen) or sailing into the sunset? This probably covers just about everyone in the Phoenix area at one time or another. Well, I have great news. San Diego is just a few hours away.

My thanks go to the About Guide to California for Visitors for providing the following feature about San Diego. It doesn't matter whether you are driving over with the kids for a week before school starts, or planning that romantic weekend for two. With these tips and tools, you are certain to have a wonderful and relaxing San Diego getaway.

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San Diego is one of California's most popular tourist destinations. Its year-round good weather draws visitors from all over and many Arizonans escape the summer heat to vacation there. Visitors of all ages and interests like San Diego, and you can always find something to do.

Geography of San Diego

It takes about 7 hours to drive from central Phoenix to Central San Diego. You will need to start on I-10 West and then to I-8 West. If you won't be needing a car, or you are short on time, the flight to San Diego from Sky Harbor International Airport takes about one hour. San Diego spreads over some 300 square miles (514.0 km2). Most of the popular San Diego attractions are clustered along a five mile wide strip near the ocean. Get a San Diego map before you go.

Where to Stay in San Diego

Driving times in San Diego are short (except at rush hour) and you can find parking almost anywhere in San Diego, although you may have to pay for it. There are many San Diego hotels in the San Diego Mission Valley and San Diego Downtown areas, and either makes a fine base for exploring San Diego. Less expensive but still convenient accommodations can be found in areas a little further from the center of San Diego.

Getting Around in San Diego

The San Diego Trolley runs through much of San Diego and past several attractions. However, most San Diego visitors find it most convenient to rent a car and drive. Remember that San Diego is a big city and subject to traffic jams during rush hours.

What to Do in San Diego

San Diego is a big city and there's plenty to do there for people with all kinds of interests. Try these ideas for a 2-3 day weekend getaway or a week-long vacation.

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