An Instagrammable San Diego Road Trip
The beauty of a San Diego getaway is that it’s just as much about the journey as the destination. Whether you’re cruising down the coast, rolling through the desert, or making your way from a nearby city, the drive to San Diego is filled with picture-perfect stops ready for your camera roll. Pack your snacks, queue up your road trip playlist, and get ready to collect some amazing shots along the way — because every great vacation starts before you even check in.
We’ve rounded up some of the most photogenic pit stops you can visit on your drive to The Dana on Mission Bay. They’re listed by direction, so you can find your route and start planning that road trip content.
Coming From the North
Driving to San Diego from Northern California or the Pacific Northwest is a coastal dream. The Pacific Coast Highway takes you past rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and charming towns that beg for a photo op. Whether you’re snapping for Instagram or filming the next viral TikTok, the scenery here makes it easy.
Redwood National Forest
Walk among some of the oldest and tallest trees in the world — the sheer scale makes for an awe-inspiring shot.
Golden Gate Bridge
No West Coast drive is complete without a stop at this iconic San Francisco landmark, framed perfectly by the bay.
Lombard Street
Famous for its eight sharp turns, this winding San Francisco street is quirky, colorful, and completely unique.
Bixby Creek Bridge
Perched along Big Sur’s dramatic coastline, this graceful bridge is one of the most photographed spots in California.
Santa Monica Pier
A classic stop with colorful rides, ocean views, and plenty of retro charm for your feed.
LACMA Urban Lights
Snap a photo under this instantly recognizable streetlight installation — it’s just as magical during the day as it is at night.
Coming From the East
If your trip takes you through the desert, you’re in for some truly unique backdrops. From colorful art installations to roadside Americana, these stops make the drive just as memorable as your time in San Diego.
Route 66
The legendary Mother Road is full of vintage signs, diners, and quirky pit stops that are pure road trip gold.
Space Age Restaurant
Gila Bend’s UFO-themed diner serves up comfort food with a side of sci-fi fun.
Official Center of the World
Located on the Arizona–California border, this offbeat landmark makes for a great “you are here” moment.
Salvation Mountain
A technicolor art installation in the middle of the desert — it’s impossible to take a bad picture here.
Las Vegas Sign
Strike a pose at the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign before you hit the road again.
Seven Magic Mountains
Seven towering stacks of neon-painted boulders rise from the desert — a surreal and colorful must-stop.
Cabazon Dinosaurs
Giant dinosaur sculptures and retro roadside vibes make this spot a nostalgic favorite.
Once You Arrive in San Diego
Your road trip may be over, but your camera will still be busy. San Diego is packed with gorgeous beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks — many of them just minutes from your suite at The Dana on Mission Bay.
Mission Bay Boardwalk – 0.5 miles from hotel
Just steps from The Dana, Mission Bay Boardwalk offers peaceful waterfront paths, palm tree silhouettes, and sparkling bay views. Sunrise here is golden-hour magic — the perfect way to start your feed-worthy day.
Belmont Park – 1.5 miles from hotel
This iconic beachfront amusement park blends vintage charm with colorful, lively energy. Snap shots on the historic Giant Dipper roller coaster, pose with the retro carnival lights, or grab a vibrant acai bowl for that fresh, beachy vibe.
Sunset Cliffs – 6 miles from hotel
A San Diego classic for a reason. Sunset Cliffs delivers dramatic ocean views, rugged sandstone formations, and glowing skies at golden hour. It’s one of the most romantic and cinematic backdrops you’ll find.
Liberty Station – 6 miles from hotel
Formerly a naval training center, Liberty Station is now a trendy hub for food, art, and culture. Think colorful public art installations, vibrant farmers markets, and cozy coffee shops with major Instagram appeal.
La Jolla Cove – 10 miles from hotel
La Jolla Cove is a dreamy seaside escape, home to crystal-clear waters, playful sea lions, and postcard-worthy cliffs. The mix of wildlife, turquoise water, and rugged coastline creates some of San Diego’s most iconic photo ops.
Harper’s Topiary Garden – 10 miles from hotel
Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, this quirky garden features more than 50 unique, sculpted shrubs. It’s whimsical, unexpected, and guaranteed to stand out in your photo roll.
Windansea Beach – 11 miles from hotel
Known for its natural beauty and surf culture, Windansea offers stunning rock formations and a rustic palm-covered surf shack that’s become an iconic photo spot.
Balboa Park – 11 miles from hotel
Balboa Park is a photographer’s dream, featuring Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens, museums, and the famous Botanical Building. Every corner has a unique and colorful frame for your photos.
Plan Your San Diego Drive Getaway
The open road is calling — and The Dana on Mission Bay is ready to welcome you at the finish line. From our marina-front views to our relaxing pools and bayside dining, it’s the perfect reward for your road trip adventure. Explore our latest special offers and start planning your route today. And when you post those travel snaps, be sure to tag us using #DriveToTheDana so we can see where your journey took you.
