San Diego, California is a vacation destination that truly has something for everyone to enjoy. Situated on the sunny Southern California coast, San Diego is a diverse destination rich in history that has just as much to offer in the way of restaurants and theaters as it does for shopping, outdoor recreation, architecture, and amazing views. Whether you’re excited to go on a San Diego vacation with family, can’t wait to make it a weekend here with friends or you’re up for a solo trip that’s designed to restore the senses, this is a place where you can embrace your interests of all types and enjoy every second in a way that’s tailored to your travel style.
While San Diego is a city fit for all seasons, there’s something about spring that’s extra vibrant and inviting for adventurers. It’s a season known for blossoming flowers across scenic local places like Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, and it comes with a calendar of seasonal events for visitors to enjoy too. From the bustling fun of Old Town to opportunities to enjoy spring weather at Coronado Beach, you can’t go wrong with a spring getaway to San Diego. When you’re ready to turn those travel plans into a reality, consider this guide your starting point for an unforgettable stay.
Getting to San Diego in the Spring
Travelers from across the map fall in love with San Diego for its scenic and sunny appeal. To that end, even the airport here has a way with views that’s one-of-a-kind! The San Diego International Airport enjoys a place on the eye-catching San Diego Bay and when you book your flight here, you’ll be just minutes from downtown upon landing. The San Diego International Airport is small enough to be inviting and visitors typically find it refreshingly simple to navigate. As you approach the runway, be sure to look out your window because that will be your first sight of palm trees for what’s sure to be an exciting and sunny stay.
In general, all major U.S. airlines serve the San Diego International Airport which is owned and operated by the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. Because this airport is on the smaller side, finding direct flights in isn’t always as easy of a task compared to hubs like Los Angeles International Airport. However, if you’re flying in from international destinations like London or Munich, you can find nonstop flights through British Airways and Lufthansa.
No matter how you get here, you’ll be delighted to find there are Uber and Lyft pickup stations on-site, and shuttle services are offered as well. If you’ve rented a car, there are company kiosks at the airport to pick up your keys and get your spring adventure underway. Yet another route to reaching San Diego in the spring that you won’t want to overlook is Amtrak. The Pacific Surfliner route serves the greater California area and can be a unique way to enjoy spring sightseeing as you roll into San Diego at a more leisurely pace.
Getting Around Once You’re Here
Spring in San Diego is certainly a season for driving from point A to point B. If your San Diego travel guide takes you anywhere outside of the neighborhood you’re staying in, you’re likely going to want a rental car to get around on your own time. If you plan on staying downtown, there are plenty of options to spend afternoons exploring on foot or by bike, but beyond that, you’re typically going to need to access the freeway to enjoy reaching other San Diego suburbs, attractions, and activities with ease. The best place to pick up your rental car is at the airport, but sticking with ride-hailing is another viable option in town if you don’t mind the added costs and wait times. Do keep in mind that when you’re exploring places like Seaport Village, there’s a trolley you can take for more comprehensive sightseeing options.
Weather Expectations in the Spring
When it comes to warm, sunny, and inviting weather, San Diego has earned a reputation for excellence. That said, spring is particularly beautiful here because the rainy season typically comes to an end by April. In March, April, and May, average daily highs linger in the upper 60s with lows dipping into the upper 50s in the evening hours. This makes for comfortable outdoor weather no matter what your plan entails, and at most, you would want a light jacket fi you plan to be out at night or make the most of your time on the water. Spring tends to be less foggy in San Diego than the summertime and typically, visitors can count on enjoying anywhere from 12 to 13 hours of daylight this time of year. In March and April, water temperatures in San Diego remain chilly and would require a wetsuit for activities like surfing. By May, you can count on those water temperatures beginning their rise toward warmer summer levels.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
While some spring travelers heading to San Diego will be just fine with being part of high-energy crowds, others are looking to relax and unwind without having to contend with as much hustle and bustle. If the latter group sounds like you, consider booking your spring stay outside of weeks that are designated spring break times for schools. It’s worth your while to check in on California school and university calendars if you want to make sure time at zoos, parks, beaches, and other local attractions doesn’t come with lines of spring breakers included. In California, spring break is often scheduled for some time between mid-March and April. Doing your homework on this front can help you plan a relaxing stay without having to worry about crowds of college students flocking here in droves at the same time.
Spring Events to Check Out in the Area
If you want to celebrate during your spring San Diego vacation, heading here over St. Patrick’s Day in March is a sure way to make the most of Irish-themed festivities across local breweries. Those who head this way in March can also celebrate what is typically the tail end of whale-watching season in the area by booking a tour with a naturalist and seeing these amazing creatures for themselves thriving in the waters off San Diego. If you’re in the mood for amazing views, March marks blooming season over at the Carlsbad Flower Fields and it’s also baseball season for the San Diego Padres if you’re looking to catch a game. On May 5th, the city turns up the flavor and fun in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. There are a variety of Mexican festivals held in San Diego on this day as well as live mariachi performances, folk dancing, and specials on margaritas at local eateries.
Day 1
After a hearty breakfast in your vacation rental booked through All Seasons Resort Lodging, your day one of fun in sunny San Diego starts with a trolley ride through Old Town. This is a great way to get acquainted with the heart of the city in a unique sightseeing style. Trolley tours are narrated and include no less than 100 points of interest that are sure to inspire. It’s a hop-on and hop-off experience if you choose to explore further, and there will be plenty of historical information to be enjoyed along the way as well. Some of the top stops you can check out when you start your journey with this tour include the Maritime Museum, Seaport Village, Little Italy, Hotel del Coronado, and more!
Next up is a trip to Balboa Park. This vibrant and exciting area of town is always worth a visit and deserves to enjoy a place on your day one San Diego travel guide. As you take time to stroll the sprawling grounds, you’ll find you have access to no less than 15 on-site museums and gorgeous gardens where you’ll see many other visitors walking or biking their way through a sunny afternoon. This is also a great place to grab lunch thanks to the wide variety of eateries within reach.
After you’ve looked around, make sure to head over to the San Diego Zoo. This world-famous stop is a must for visitors of all ages. On-site, you’ll encounter 3,700 endangered and rare animals that span 650 species. A visit to this zoo is a chance to enjoy close-up views of alligators, giraffes, snow leopards, orangutans, gorillas, bears, koalas, and even anacondas. If you have time, the safari tour at the safari park is highly recommended.
This evening, take time to dine in style at George’s at the Cove. This upscale eatery is a great place to pair an amazing menu of options with breathtaking ocean views too. George’s at the Cove is found at 1250 Prospect Street in La Jolla and the menu features wild isles salmon, yellowtail, and seared scallops to name a few of the many delicious options. Take a seat on the rooftop terrace for the best vistas at this eatery that’s been serving the greater San Diego area for more than 40 years.
Day 2
The second day of your stay is going to start with a potentially otherworldly experience at San Diego’s historic Whaley House. Located in Old Town, this historic stop is impressive to tour, and many believe that it may be one of the city’s most haunted destinations too! There are self-guided tour options available on-site and after you’ve explored the home, there are Victorian gardens to enjoy as well. The Whaley House is a two-story Greek Revival mansion designed by Thomas Whaley back in 1857. The family lived in the home for nearly a century, but the property was fraught with tragedy which gives many visitors today a sense that there’s something paranormal to be discovered with every visit.
Once you’ve had your fill of touring, it’s time to take to the water. After lunch, you’ll want to pick up a kayak to rent and get out on the waves to paddle your way through a great afternoon over at Coronado Bay Channel. This is a terrific location for kayaking thanks to the views it offers up of the San Diego skyline and the USS Midway Museum in the distance. If you have time after you’ve explored this area, packing up and heading to La Jolla is an opportunity to kayak among whimsical sea caves and observe marine life in the water at the same time.
Later in the day, make sure to book your place on a whale-watching cruise if your spring journey is happening in March. Many whale-watching tours in the area are about 2.5 hours long and are led by naturalists who can point out intriguing whale behavior along the way. If you book a tour with a hydrophone on board, there are options to listen to whale songs below the waves as blue whales, orcas, and California gray whales make their way through the surrounding waters.
After all of the on-the-water fun, you’ve earned a delicious dinner at Jeune et Jolie. Tonight, you dine in French style over at 2659 State Street Suite 102 in Carlsbad. This French restaurant is a fantastic place to enjoy traditional dishes on a fixed-price menu or a la carte. Some of the fan-favorite options to try when you’re here include smoked salmon, frog legs, or escargot.
Day 3
The third day of your spring stay in San Diego begins with a morning focused on touring the Gaslamp Quarter. This is often pointed to as one of the most lively and scenic areas of San Diego thanks to its collection of gorgeous Victorian architecture. It’s a place where you’ll come across many restaurants and bars and you’ll also have the chance to visit places like the Davis-Horton House. This historic stop is one of the oldest surviving structures in the city and a must-visit if you’re into learning more about the area’s fascinating past.
Afterward, you’ll want to treat yourself to a tour of some of San Diego’s finest breweries around. The craft beer industry has been booming in this area in recent years and to date, there are more than 150 breweries within the city limits. Signing up for a place on a brewery tour is a good way to taste a little bit of the best of them all but if you only have time for one stop, be sure to check out Pure Project Brewing. This company is known for its sustainable brewing practices and has locations in Balboa Park, Carlsbad, Miramar, North Park, and Vista.
Next up on day three is a stroll across San Diego’s Spruce Street suspension bridge. This is a hidden pedestrian bridge that spans 375 feet and offers up breathtaking views over the Sessions Canyon which is situated 70 feet below. The bridge dates back to 1912 and was designed by Edwin Capps. Today, it’s a romantic and thrilling spot to check out when you want to make sure you’re enjoying some hidden away locales in the city too.
End your day on a mouthwatering note at Juniper & Ivy. Located at 2228 Kettner Boulevard, this eatery is a great place to enjoy dishes like short ribs and swordfish as well as gourmet burgers. Whether you go with the Kurobuta pork chops or the 22 oz. New York strip, you’re in for a delicious treat. Before you go, don’t forget to order up a slice of sticky toffee cake.
Book Your Getaway to San Diego Today
Your trip to San Diego deserves to be one-of-a-kind and when you’re looking for the most luxurious accommodations in town, the team at All Season Resort Lodging has it covered. Our property options are vast and varied and host top-notch amenities including stylish furnishings, private decks, full-equipped kitchens, custom-built bedrooms, and impressive entertainment centers that allow our guests to tailor their stay to their style. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next adventure to San Diego.
