Our first trip was 2 years ago this month - with kids. Only been once, but we recommend USS Midway (3-4 hours) and the Maritime Museum (includes a Russian Sub, pirate ship & others - couple hours), Point Loma Lighthouse & Cabrillo National Monument & Tide Pools (1/2 day), La Jolla beaches, including Children's Beach where all the seals hang out, drive out to Coronado, and of course the kids loved SeaWorld (1/2 day) and the absolutely wonderful zoo (all day). Headed back this month and plan to add a whale watching expedition. Hope this helps!