Summer in San Diego Starts Here!

There’s a reason summer in San Diego is hard to beat. The days are long, the weather is warm, and there’s almost always an excuse to end up by the water. Whether that means spending the entire day at the beach, biking the boardwalk, grabbing tacos after a swim, or catching the sunset before dinner is completely up to you. And while we’re obviously a little biased, there really is so much more to do here than just hit the beach (although we fully support doing absolutely nothing but that, too). 

From some of our favorite stretches of coastline to local events, outdoor activities, and places worth exploring, we put together a few of our favorite ways to spend summer in San Diego. Consider this your starting point—and leave a little room in the itinerary to stumble across something good along the way.

Okay, Obviously We Have to Start With the Beaches

You have plenty to choose from, and the best San Diego beach really depends on what kind of day you’re looking for. 

Mission Beach is the classic San Diego beach day. You’ve got a huge stretch of sand, the boardwalk, plenty of places to grab food nearby, and Belmont Park right in the middle of it all. You can spend the morning on the beach, rent bikes and cruise the boardwalk in the afternoon, then stick around for sunset without ever really needing to leave the neighborhood. Just up the coast, Pacific Beach has a little more energy. Walk along the boardwalk, check out Crystal Pier, grab coffee or lunch nearby, and expect plenty of people out enjoying the neighborhood, especially on a sunny summer weekend. 

If you’re in the mood for something a little more scenic, La Jolla is always worth the trip. La Jolla Shores is great for an actual beach day, while the Cove and surrounding coastline are perfect for walking around, taking in the views, and spotting seals and sea lions. You can also kayak, snorkel, or explore the sea caves if lying on a towel all afternoon isn't quite adventurous enough for you. Then there’s Coronado for a slower, picturesque beach day and Ocean Beach when you want something a little more laid-back and eclectic. 

Our recommendation? Don’t make yourself choose just one. If you’re here for a few days, try a couple and see which neighborhood ends up being your favorite.

Make the Most of Being by the Water

Of course, going to the beach doesn’t have to mean sitting on the sand all day. 

Rent a bike and cruise along the boardwalk, try a surf lesson, grab a paddleboard, play beach volleyball, or take a walk along the water. If you’re staying around Mission Beach or Pacific Beach, it’s especially easy to make an entire day out of exploring the coastline. 

And if you’re staying with Vacation Rentals by Aaron, don’t forget that complimentary beach rentals are included with your stay! Take advantage of free beach gear and rentals during your trip so you can spend less time worrying about what to pack and more time actually enjoying the coast. You’ll find more information about participating rental locations in your Guest Portal. 

Mission Bay is another favorite when you want to be near the water without necessarily dealing with waves. Its calmer waters and waterfront paths make it great for paddleboarding, kayaking, biking, picnicking, or just finding a spot to hang out for the afternoon. 

And whatever you do, try to catch at least one sunset while you’re here. Grab dinner to-go, find a spot along the coast, and hang around until the sun goes down. It’s simple, but it’s one of those San Diego things that never really gets old.

What’s Happening in San Diego This August?

If you’re visiting toward the end of August, summer definitely isn’t over yet. There are still plenty of events happening around San Diego and a few that are worth adding to the itinerary. 

Super Girl Surf Pro — August 21–23 

Head north to Oceanside for a weekend of professional women’s surfing, live entertainment, activities, and plenty happening around the beach. Even if you’re not exactly following professional surfing year-round, it’s a fun excuse to spend a day in Oceanside. 

Bike the Bay — August 23 

If you’d rather be on two wheels, Bike the Bay gives riders a pretty unique way to see San Diego—including the chance to bike across the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge. The route continues around the bay for a completely different view of the city. 

Del Mar Racing Season — 

Going to the races is basically a San Diego summer tradition. Del Mar’s racing season continues through the summer, so dress up a little (or don't), spend an afternoon at the track, and make a day of exploring Del Mar while you’re up there. 

Catch a Padres Game — 

Baseball, warm weather, and Downtown San Diego are a pretty solid summer combination. Catch a Padres game at Petco Park, then wander around the Gaslamp Quarter or head toward the waterfront for dinner afterward. 

Event dates and schedules can change, so check with the event organizers before making your plans.