Day trip from San Diego (Newport Beach, Nice: rent, restaurants, shops)

[BereniceUK]

I'm planning on being in San Diego next year for a short stay (either late September or early October). Can anyone suggest where I can go for a one day trip outside of the city? I've looked at taking a flight to Catalina Island but where else could I consider?

How about Anza-Borrego Desert State Park? Are there any bus or tour bus services to it or would it be too far for a day trip? Salton Sea - too far?

I'm a solo female traveller and, from what I've read and been advised, have now dropped the idea of crossing the border into Tijuana.

[Tenzo]

Good idea about not going to tijuana

When I was out there last week we went to the wine country. There are LOTS of vans that take out groups and have tours. Just latch on to a tour. They were all full of single women.

[cruitr]

Newport Beach is about 1.5 hours north of San Diego. It's a great place to spend a day. Very walkable. Nice beaches with lots of restaurants and shops. Here's a link: Newport Beach, California Photos - The Real OC

If you rent a car, here's your map:
from: san to: newport bay, ca - Google Maps

If you're looking for something with a little adventure, how about a day of sportfishing? This place is a short cab ride from anywhere downtown: Point Loma Sportfishing - San Diego's Best Sportfishing Landing