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San Diego

Just a stone’s throw from Mexico, San Diego manages to effortlessly combine SoCal beach culture with a range of family-friendly attractions. La Jolla and Coronado offer long stretches of sandy beaches, lapped by the refreshing Pacific Ocean. Meanwhile, parents and youngsters alike with enjoy the chance to explore the animals San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. With buzzing neighbourhoods like Balboa Park and Mission Bay to explore, as well as pulsating nightlife in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego is an outstanding choice for an exciting holiday in the USA.

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What you’ll love most about San Diego

  • Immerse yourself in culture and nature at Balboa Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Explore museums like the San Diego Museum of Art and the San Diego Natural History Museum, stroll through lush gardens, and visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo
  • Experience the wonders of the animal kingdom at the San Diego Zoo, home to over 3,500 rare and endangered animals from around the world. Explore exhibits like the African Plains, Panda Canyon, and Elephant Odyssey, and enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages
  • Discover the beauty of La Jolla Cove, a picturesque beach nestled between rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on the sandy shores, explore sea caves and tide pools, and spot marine life like seals, sea lions, and colourful fish in their natural habitat
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and historic charm of the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego’s historic downtown district. Explore Victorian-era buildings housing trendy bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, and enjoy live music, theatre performances, and cultural events throughout the year
  • Shop, dine, and relax by the waterfront at Seaport Village, a charming shopping and dining destination overlooking San Diego Bay. Browse through unique boutiques and souvenir shops, enjoy waterfront dining with scenic views of the harbour, and take a leisurely stroll along the promenade lined with palm trees and outdoor entertainment
  • Escape to nature at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, a coastal wilderness park with stunning ocean views and unique landscapes. Hike along scenic trails through coastal sage scrub and rare Torrey pine trees, and enjoy birdwatching, picnicking, and photography in this pristine natural environment

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 19℃
  • 19℃
  • 20℃
  • 20℃
  • 21℃
  • 22℃
  • 24℃
  • 27℃
  • 25℃
  • 23℃
  • 21℃
  • 19℃
  • 6
  • 7
  • 7
  • 4
  • 3
  • 1
  • 1
  • 1
  • 1
  • 3
  • 4
  • 6

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

San Diego kicks off the year with mild, pleasant weather - perfect for walking along La Jolla Cove or visiting the seals at Children’s Pool Beach. With highs around 19°C, it's still T-shirt weather by day, even if evenings cool down. Whale-watching season is in full swing, drawing nature lovers to the coast.

February

Mild temperatures continue, with the city alive with cultural events like San Diego Museum Month, offering discounted access to top attractions. It's also a great time for hikes in Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, where the cliffs and sea views shine under winter sun.

March

Spring nudges its way in as wildflowers start blooming across Anza-Borrego Desert State Park - a popular day trip. The San Diego Latino Film Festival energizes the arts scene, and daytime temperatures hover pleasantly in the low 20s°C, ideal for alfresco dining in Little Italy.

April

Clear skies and average highs of around 21°C make it a perfect month for outdoor adventures - from biking around Coronado Island to exploring Balboa Park's gardens and museums. Crowds are still light compared to summer, making it a sweet spot for relaxed exploring.

May

The marine layer known as "May Gray" might roll in, but temperatures remain comfortable, typically peaking in the 21–23°C range. Beach weather is creeping in, and locals take to kayaking in La Jolla’s sea caves or strolling Sunset Cliffs in the golden hour light.

June

“June Gloom” brings overcast mornings but sun usually breaks through by midday. Despite the name, it’s a popular time for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and enjoying the start of outdoor concerts and evening markets. The city begins to feel more lively as summer arrives.

July

Summer is in full swing, and so are beach days, festivals, and fireworks. With average highs around 25°C, it’s warm without being overbearing. Families flock to San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld, while locals seek quieter corners like Del Mar or Mission Trails.

August

The warmest month of the year, August brings highs close to 27°C and prime beach conditions. Surf is up, barbecues sizzle, and sunset sails on San Diego Bay are in high demand. From rooftop bars downtown to breezy coves in Encinitas, the coast buzzes with summer energy.

September

Crowds thin but the warm weather lingers, making this one of the best months to visit. Beach days are still blissful, and the Miramar Air Show adds spectacle to the skies. Harvest season begins at nearby vineyards in Temecula, making for a scenic day trip inland.

October

Known as “locals’ summer,” October serves up beautiful beach weather without the crowds. With highs around 23°C, it’s a golden time for exploring neighbourhoods like North Park or enjoying Ocean Beach Farmers Market and seasonal craft beer festivals.

November

Cooler evenings hint at winter, but most days remain sun-kissed and in the high teens or low 20s°C. Thanksgiving brings beach picnics as much as traditional meals. It’s also a prime month for hiking in nearby Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, where crisp air and quiet trails await.

December

Holiday cheer arrives with a Southern California twist- light displays sparkle at Balboa Park December Nights, and boat parades illuminate San Diego Bay. With average highs near 19°C, you can enjoy festive fun in flip-flops before heading to the coast to watch migrating grey whales begin their journey.

Our Ratings

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