We're travelling to San Diego in October (2 adults & 2 kids). We won't have a car (very used to using public transport) and want to see all of the major attractions - sea world, balboa park, lego land, coranado etc. I'd love to stay at La Jolla because it looks so pretty and tranquil, but will we feel way to far away from things? Is it easy to hop on a bus in La Jolla to reach major attractions, or would we be better off in Mission Beach or even somewhere in the gas lamp district? We're trying to keep to accomodation around the $100 a night mark and would like to have a pool.

Would LOVE to hear your suggestions.

Hi andrea,
I have lived in San Diego for about 7 years now. Mission Beach or even the gaslamp district is more centrally located than La Jolla. Also, your chances of finding accomodations under $100/night are better in Mission Beach then the Gaslamp and finally La Jolla. There are two hostels in the Gaslamp district and both are quite reputable, but having your family with you, I am guessing you would feel more comfortable in a hotel. However, if you dare, hostels are much cheaper. I hope that you have a chance to visit La Jolla because you are right, it is quite beautiful. Sincerely, Amy

I forgot you might want to check out the following website:
www.signonsandiego.com

Hi Andrea,

The Gaslamp is geared to tourists and will have easy transportation to the zoo, balboa park..it's close to where all the tour boats and tour guides are. Mission Bay and La Jolla are out of the loop for tourists who don't have their own transportation. Hate to tell you but San Diego is not big on public transportation..you might be able to take the train out to legoland in carlsbad from downtown (gaslamp)

on your budget for four people, you can forget la jolla - actually, it may be tough in san diego too. i heard the embasy suite by downtwon has been recommended. close to a trolley line, free breakfast. considering you won't have a car this may be your best location.
if you had a car (which i'd highly recommend) i encourage you to find something in the misssion or pacific beach area just cause it is much funner for the kids to be right near the beach - but, again, the $100/night probably wouldn't work there.

Don't count on Embassy Suites to give you a room for under $100. Even with some tough negotiating for an early May stay it was way over $100. It's in a great location for trolly use and Gaslamp though.

I live in La Jolla and it is truly beautiful. Unfortunately if you don't have a car it's tough to get to. The bus route to and from downtown is about 45 minutes. 35 minutes from Pacific Beach or Mission Beach. Downtown has acess to every sight you listed via public transportation - so you should probably stay there. Your kids would love PB/MB though since it's on the beach and the temps in October are usually in the 70's and the water is still somewhat warm.

Andrea: If you're adventuresome AND flexible, try Priceline for SD hotels.

We just reserved two nights at the Westin Horton Plaza (3 star--just off Broadway, adjacent to Gaslamp) for $85 a nite thru Priceline.

You can learn more at www.biddingfortravel.com

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