#21: San Diego, California
San Diego has a sunny reputation that makes it easy to understand the appeal. Beaches, Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo, coastal neighborhoods, tacos, surfing, and mild weather all make it sound like a relaxed Southern California escape without the intensity of Los Angeles.

The catch is that San Diego is still expensive, and its most popular beaches and attractions can get very crowded. Traffic and parking can also wear down an otherwise easygoing trip. Travelers looking for a quieter coastal stay might prefer Oceanside, Ventura, or parts of California’s Central Coast.
