Imperial Beach

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Imperial Beach's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Sun and Sand Escape
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a beachfront cafรฉ. After, stroll along the Imperial Beach Pier and enjoy the ocean breeze.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at a local taco shop before heading to the beach for sunbathing or swimming. Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for some fun on the water.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant with ocean views. End your day by watching the sunset on the beach.

day 2
Coastal Adventure
morning
:

Get an early start with a beach yoga session to center your mind. Afterward, explore the local tide pools during low tide.

afternoon
:

Visit the Imperial Beach Farmers Market for fresh produce and local snacks. Take some time to relax on the sand or play beach volleyball.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local pizzeria. Enjoy a beach bonfire if permitted, making s'mores as you soak in the stars.

day 3
Surf and Turf
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Head to the beach for a surf lesson to catch some waves.

afternoon
:

After surfing, treat yourself to a delicious lunch at a food truck. Spend the afternoon biking along the Silver Strand bike path.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a beachside grill. Cap off the evening with live music at a nearby bar.

day 4
Wild Life Wonders
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast, then visit the nearby Tijuana Estuary to explore the unique ecosystem. Bring binoculars for bird watching.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a guided tour of the estuary to learn more about local wildlife. Spend the rest of your afternoon relaxing at the beach.

evening
:

Dine at an upscale restaurant that specializes in local cuisine. Relax with a stroll along the boardwalk before bed.

day 5
Oceanic Exploration
morning
:

Kick off your day with a delicious brunch at a cafรฉ. Participate in a morning beach clean-up to give back to the community.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a beachside taco stand. Try your hand at snorkeling at a friendly local dive spot.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a laid-back vibe. Wind down your day with some ice cream as you walk along the beach.

day 6
Culinary Coastline
morning
:

Start your day at a local bakery for pastries and coffee. Visit the Imperial Beach art galleries for some cultural inspiration.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class focused on coastal cuisine for a fun, interactive lunch experience. Relax on the beach afterwards to digest and enjoy the sun.

evening
:

Dine al fresco at a farm-to-table restaurant. Take a leisurely post-dinner stroll along the shoreline with the sounds of the ocean in the background.

day 7
Beach Bliss
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a cozy cafรฉ and head to the beach to soak up the sun. Build sandcastles or engage in a beach game.

afternoon
:

Have a casual lunch at a beachside bar. Spend the afternoon exploring local shops and boutiques near the beach.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular steakhouse. Relax with a movie night at your accommodation or enjoy live music in the area.

day 8
Island Vibes
morning
:

Start with a tropical breakfast smoothie. Enjoy a brief visit to the nearby Coronado Island, just a ferry ride away.

afternoon
:

Explore Coronado's stunning beaches and have lunch at a seaside cafรฉ. Return to Imperial Beach to catch some afternoon rays.

evening
:

Have dinner at an island-themed restaurant. Enjoy a nightcap at a local bar or lounge.

day 9
Relaxing Retreat
morning
:

Wake up to a light breakfast and enjoy some quiet time at the beach. Meditate or read with the waves in the background.

afternoon
:

Savor a healthy lunch at a nearby cafรฉ. Spend the afternoon at a local spa for a rejuvenating treatment.

evening
:

Have dinner at a quaint restaurant featuring seasonal dishes. Enjoy a peaceful evening watching the ocean and reflecting on your day.

day 10
Active Getaway
morning
:

Fuel up with a healthy breakfast and hit the beach for some morning jogging. Play beach games or join a fitness class.

afternoon
:

Lunch on the go with delicious wraps from a beachside vendor. Try out some surfboarding or beach yoga to stay active.

evening
:

Cap off your day with a hearty dinner at a local burger joint. Join a beach bonfire to relax and socialize with others.

Discover Imperial Beach

Read more in our Imperial Beach 2024 Travel Guide.

Imperial Beach Travel Guide