A San Diego Bachelorette Party Itinerary

Head to the coast of southern California for a San Diego bachelorette party full of sunshine, beachside hangs, and the best Mexican food north of the border. Less than three hours south from Los Angeles, this coastal gem is a respite away from the hustle and bustle but still has so much to offer as a bachelorette party destination, including wineries, Instagram-worthy sights, and of course, nightclubs. Though you’ll still battle some traffic because it is the Golden State, after all—San Diego is known for having some of the best year-round weather.

With all this in mind, it’s no wonder San Diego is becoming a featured destination on many bachelorette party lists. Download BACH, one of our favorite party-planning apps, and you’ll find an entire section dedicated to this sunny city’s attractions. Use it, along with our expert recs, to map out your pre-wedding bash. 

Whether you’re planning a San Diego bachelorette party that’s a laid back weekend with the gals or an excuse to rock your LWS (little white sash!), here are some of our top things to do, places to eat, and hotels to rest after all that activity.

What to Do

Cue your Laguna Beach-inspired montage: It doesn’t get much better than hitting up the beach — La Jolla Shores is a must — with your closest friends. While it’s by far the most popular beach on the San Diego shore, it’s for good reason: Here, you can kick back and relax on the beach’s mile of white sand or take your turn paddleboarding, body surfing, boogie boarding, or kayaking. If you get tired of the beach (shockingly, it’s possible) and want to up your Instagame, drive 30 minutes north to Carlsbad to explore the famous Flower Fields for stunning views of fresh blooms.

If it’s your first time visiting San Diego, go full tourist mode by checking out the San Diego Zoo and Balboa Park. The two destinations are connected, making it easy to spend the morning with the giraffes and the afternoon at the Japanese Friendship Garden, or vice versa. Balboa Park isn’t just any ‘ol park: It’s packed with museums, gardens, hiking trails, and more.

Ease into the nightlife during your San Diego bachelorette party by visiting one of the city’s many wineries, especially the Parisian-inspired Vin de Syrah. More of a beer kind of gal? Sample all that the city has to offer  — four bars at least — by reserving a pub crawl with San Diego Pub Crawler. When it comes time to pop bottles, check out Bang Bang for a lively night of dancing or Parq for a luxury nightclub experience. (Psst, Pauly D is performing at Parq in March if you’re looking for a Jersey Shore kind of night.)

You gotta hit downtown, also known as the Gaslamp District to do a round of shots with your best girls. When you’re here, make sure to have a round at the newly-opened Moxy’s San Diego, known for its modern, minimalist and trendy vibe. If you’ve ever visited the New York City version, you’ll have some major #TBT feels from the second you walk in.

Where to Eat

Get the taste of Tijuana without traveling further south by stopping at Tacos El Gordo for authentic tacos and of course, margaritas. While Mexican food reigns supreme, there’s plenty of restaurants to satisfy any palette. You can’t go wrong with Kettner Exchange, a standout in Little Italy. Considered the city’s ultimate rooftop destination, you can reserve a cabana for privacy or grab a seat at the bar where they serve craft cocktails, boutique wines, and craft beers. Since you’re so thankful you don’t have to date anymore (woo!), have dinner at Cafe Gratitude also in the Little Italy area, where vegan food overflows. As soon as the post-nightclub hangover hits, head to The Rose Wine Bar. Hear us out: They offer a hangover-friendly brunch on the weekends that includes empanadas and carnitas hash (and plenty of wine).

Since you're close to the ocean, that means it’s only fair that you indulge in a seafood dinner or two. Ironside Fish & Oyster, located in the heart of Little Italy, is one of the most popular spots to grub on fresh oysters and other ocean-to-table dishes. For a sunset view that locals love? Grab some champagne and watch the colors cascade in the sky at Porto Vista Hotel.

No San Diego bachelorette party is complete without something sweet — in this case, it’s ice cream and matcha-infused pastries. Hammond’s Gourmet Ice Cream, winner of San Diego Magazine’s Best Restaurants for the last three (!) years, sells ice cream flights with six flavors so you and your friends don’t have to compromise on the stuff that really matters. And as a bonus, the ice cream shop even offers vegan options for your dairy-free pal. Looking for an afternoon pick-me-up? Get your daily greens fix at Holy Matcha where you can get a caffeine boost or nibble on of their freshly-baked treats.

Where to Stay

When it comes to hotels, San Diego has something for everyone. For a hotel that’s as youthful — dare we say, Millennial — as you, consider Moxy’s San Diego Downtown. Just steps away from the city’s main attractions including Little Italy and San Diego Zoo, this trendy boutique hotel offers top of the line amenities like “Plug and Meet” gathering areas and best of all, a 24/7 bar.

Known for its 1960s vibe, The Pearl Hotel makes for an unforgettable experience. Each week they host a Dive-In Screening of classic movies (think: Dirty Dancing and Sixteen Candles) by the pool and TIKI B-I-N-G-O where you and your bridesmaids can win big while munching on happy hour bites.

If you’re looking for luxe for your San Diego bachelorette party, look no further than The Lafayette Hotel. Located near Balboa Bark, this hotel is considered one of the city’s most iconic — and its poolside bungalows are the main reason.Rent a cabana to gain access to poolside entertainment, food, drinks ,and a privately lounge area. Top tip: If you can’t splash out on a night at the hotel, you can buy a Day-cation Pass to enjoy the hotel’s pool and other amenities.

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