San Diego Travel Update — What to Expect If You’re Visiting San Diego Right Now

Pssst! Are you ready to get back to traveling? You’re not alone.

It’s no secret that the last 12-18 months have been a tremendously challenging time for those of us who enjoy getting out and exploring the world. But the good news is that a return to travel is already underway. As of May 1, more than 100 million Americans have received a COVID-19 vaccine. Case counts are plummeting, and restrictions are being lifted nationwide.

If you’re planning a trip to “America’s Finest City,” we look forward to welcoming you! Here’s a quick overview of the latest information you need to know and what to expect during your San Diego travel.

The State of the Pandemic

COVID-19 still remains a serious concern. That said, it seems that the worst days of the pandemic may be behind us. The immunization strategy is working. As more and more Americans receive the vaccine, the chance of contracting or passing on the virus becomes minimal. And California currently has the lowest per capita case count of any state in the U.S. So while travel remains an individual choice based on personal risk factors, embarking on adventure is growing safer with each passing day. So for many folks, the time to plan is now.

Reducing Your Risk

According to current CDC guidelines, some basic personal safety measures are still recommended. Protective face masks should be worn over the mouth and nose indoors at all times, as well as within six feet of others outside your immediate party while outdoors. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and hot water after touching surfaces. A small bottle of hand sanitizer in a purse or pocket can help when handwashing is not possible. Use common sense, and your risks are greatly minimized.

Openings, Closings, and Restrictions

As of May 1, 2021, San Diego County is in California’s Orange Tier. This means that risk levels are considered moderate. Some indoor businesses are open and able to operate under certain stringent conditions. As per San Diego County’s COVID-19 Information Page, the following is a partial list of businesses that are permitted to operate (given that specific conditions are met):

Restaurants: Open for outdoor service. Indoors can open at 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer. Can have live entertainment.
Hotels and lodging: Open. Fitness centers can open at 25% capacity. Indoor pools can open.
Gyms and fitness centers: Indoors at 25% capacity. Indoor pools can open.
Places of worship: Indoors at 50% capacity recommended.
Hair salons and barbershops: Open.
Personal care services (includes nail salons, tattoo, piercing): Open.
Museums, zoos, and aquariums: Indoors at 50% capacity.
Movie theaters: Indoors at 50% capacity or 200 people, whichever is fewer.
Breweries, wineries, and distilleries that serve food: Indoors can open at 25% capacity or 100 people, whichever is fewer.
Bars that do not serve food: Outdoors open.
Family entertainment centers: Outdoors open. Indoors open at 25% capacity or 50% capacity if all guests test negative or show proof of full vaccination with additional restrictions. Includes bowling alleys.
Outdoor recreational facilities: Open. Sales of food, drink, or alcohol allowed. Campgrounds can open.
Indoor playgrounds (includes bounce centers, ball pits, laser tag): Open at 25% capacity.
Amusement parks: Open at 25% capacity, with additional restrictions.
Live events, including sports or entertainment: Open at 33% capacity in assigned seating.

Current Reopening Timeline

According to the Office of Governor Gavin Newsom, given the current rate of rollout of the vaccines (as well as case-count projections), California is on track to be fully reopened with no restrictions by June 15, 2021. If current trends hold, the state means to do away with the color-coded warning system by that date. At a recent press briefing on the subject of California’s pandemic preparedness, Newsom said, “It is time to turn the page on our tier system and begin looking to fully reopen California’s economy. We can now begin planning for our lives post-pandemic.”

What’s Happening at Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle

At Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle, we pride ourselves on our superb amenities and premium guest experience. Because of this, we’re glad to be able to bring back some of the aspects of our hotel that we feel truly put the guest first. For instance, restrictions have been lifted in our pool, fitness center, and hot tub areas. We’re also very excited to be able to once again welcome guests back to Bunz, A Burger Joint — our on-site eatery offering gourmet burgers in a family-friendly setting.

Our Commitment to Safety

As always, guest safety and satisfaction are our top priority at Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle. As such, we have not just followed, but exceeded CDC and WHO guidelines for cleanliness and sanitization across our property throughout the pandemic. And as the end of restrictions approaches, you can rest assured that we will continue to do so. If you’d like additional information on what we’re doing to help keep you safe, please visit our Health and Safety Information Page. We look forward to welcoming you back!