San Diego is a popular vacation destination in Southern California boasting scenic beaches, mountains, and deserts. While the weather is pleasant year-round in San Diego, certain seasons offer different festivities, events, and things to do. The sunny summer season is perfect for surfing, water skiing, or kayaking. In the spring, the climate is especially mild with low humidity, so it’s a fine time for outdoor adventures. Autumn boasts city festivals along the coast, while winter offers a chance to see historic museums without the crowds. Ranging from luxury condos in the downtown area to rustic cabins tucked away in the mountains, there is a wide variety of incredible San Diego vacation rentals to choose from. Decide the best time to visit San Diego with these seasonal tips.
Visiting San Diego in the Summer
By the time May rolls around, the average temperature in San Diego begins to creep up from 65 degrees to almost 75 degrees when August hits. The heat of the summer gives you a chance to venture into the waters on a dolphin cruise with Sail San Diego or perfect your surfing skills with a lesson from the Pacific Surf School. Thrill-seekers can take advantage of the warmer temperatures by renting a waverunner or jet ski from Mission Bay Sportscenter or see the wildlife and sea creatures by booking a trip with San Diego Seal Tours. Summer allows you to have fun in the sun just minutes from your vacation rental, but it’s also the most popular time of the year to visit San Diego, producing more crowds at visitor attractions such as the San Diego Zoo and Sea World.
Visiting San Diego in the Fall
A vacation rental in San Diego in the fall offers temperatures that are slightly lower than in the summer months, averaging around 65 degrees. As the fall foliage appears on the coastline, take a scenic ride through the city or hit up attractions such as Legoland, the San Diego Safari Park, or Balboa Park as the crowds simmer down when school is back in session. Fall is also a fun time to visit San Diego for the street festivals, such as the Julian Apple Days Festival and the Art and Craft Show in Old Town San Diego, that bring out the locals. Visit in September and see the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar Air Show or the Annual Pacific Islander Festival. Enjoy the cooler weather while dining at beachfront spots such as JRDN Restaurant and the Pacific Beach Fish Shop.
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Visiting San Diego in the Winter
Winter in San Diego does not come close to rivaling the freezing temperatures on the East Coast, but prepare for a dip in temperatures when determining what to pack for your vacation. Beginning in November, the low temperatures dip into the 50s, with the highs averaging 65 degrees through February. However, the cooler temperatures don’t have to stop you from exploring the great outdoors in San Diego. Plan for a day of hiking Sunset Cliffs Natural Park, or tour the Japanese Friendship Garden. Rent bicycles from Stay Classy Bike Rentals, and ride the trails along the Mission Beach Boardwalk and the Silver Strand Bike Path before venturing back to your cozy vacation rental for the evening. If it’s a bit too chilly out for you, opt for a great indoor tour of the San Diego Air & Space Museum, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, or Liberty Station.
Visiting San Diego in the Spring
San Diego’s beauty shows itself as the flowers start to bloom in March and April. With high temperatures averaging around 65 to 70 degrees, you can spend your days roaming through the multiple gardens the city has to offer, such as the Desert, Sculpture, and Alcazar Gardens. The Botanical Building and Lily Pond is a popular tourist attraction, and when visiting in spring, you’ll avoid the summer crowds. Water sports are already in full swing in San Diego in the spring, giving you the chance to parasail with San Diego Parasail Adventures or trek through the Black Mountain Open Space Park trails. The weather is ideal for a shopping excursion and stroll through the Gaslamp Quarter where you can dine with views of the ocean at Cannonball and the C Level Lounge.
When Is Best Time To Visit San Diego?
While many snowbirds flock to San Diego in the winter to beat the snow throughout the Midwest and East Coast, the most crowded tourist season is the summer, and the travel rates are priced accordingly. Get the best rates and the most comfortable weather by making spring the time to visit for you and your family. Flowers are in bloom, creating a breathtaking landscape. The crowds are also minimal and water attractions, museums, and mountain trails are fully operational in preparation for the summer season. Regardless of what time of year you choose to vacation in San Diego, know that mild temperatures and plentiful water and land attractions are waiting for you.
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