Picking San Diego to spend your summer break? Great call!
America’s finest city totally shines in the summer. The weather is always perfect there and the neighborhoods are steeped in culture, history, and nature.
Whether you’re rolling in with your crew or planning a romantic getaway, there is a lot to do in San Diego. Boat rides, breweries, wild encounters at the zoo, and hikes—you name it.
So, where do you start? Don’t sweat it. Here, we’ll share some of the best things you must do in San Diego this summer.
#1 Catch a Sunset at Sunset Cliffs
Watching the sun melt into the Pacific? That’s the quintessential San Diego experience.
Ask any local about the iconic place to witness the day’s dramatic close, and they will say, Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
The vibe there is pure magic. The rugged sandstone cliffs glow during the golden hour. You get these huge, wide-open views over the ocean. Keep an eye out—you might spot dolphins playing in the waves.
Arrive about 45 minutes to 1 hour before sunset. That way, you can scout out a good spot (it gets a little busy, especially in summer).
Any spot on the main clifftop path offers an excellent vantage point. But if you want the most dramatic views, you’ll have to climb stairs or navigate rough, slippery paths, particularly close to the unstable cliff edges.
Make sure to bring the essentials. A blanket or folding chairs are key for comfort. Pack some snacks and water. Definitely bring a light jacket or sweater—it gets breezy and cool once the sun dips below the horizon. And don’t forget your camera.
#2 Cruise Around the San Diego Bay
Want to see San Diego sparkle from a different angle? Get out on the water.
A San Diego Bay cruise is a fantastic way to spend a summer afternoon or evening and feel the cool ocean breeze.
The sights are incredible. You’ll see tons of landmarks like the Coronado Bridge, the USS Midway, Navy bases, and the skyline. You may even spot playful sea lions barking on buoys or dolphins racing the boat.
Harbor tours are one of the most popular ways to cruise the bay. They usually last 1-2 hours. And if you just want to chill, a sunset cruise is perfect.
Celebrating your friend’s upcoming marriage? Book a San Diego bachelorette party boat to make the event unforgettable. That truly would be the ultimate celebration—you, the bride-to-be, and your best friends leisurely cruising San Diego Bay with cocktails in hand.
As far as pricing is concerned, Tiki Time Bay Tours states that tickets cost between $29 and $62. However, if you want to save some money, book a weekday tour. Prices are discounted on weekdays.
#3 Explore Little Italy
If you want to experience some European charm right here in SoCal, head to Little Italy.
The neighborhood perfectly blends old-world Italian roots with a modern, hip San Diego vibe. Expect charming piazzas, cobblestone touches, string-lit outdoor dining, and the delightful scents of garlic and espresso filling the air.
The roots of Little Italy trace back to the 1920s when it began as a close-knit community of Italian fishing families who established San Diego’s thriving tuna industry.
After some tougher years, the community rallied. And look at it now—it’s one of San Diego’s most desirable neighborhoods.
If you’re here on a Saturday (8 AM to 2 PM), you have to check out the farmers market. You’ll find farm-fresh produce, flowers, local honey, artisan cheeses, crafts, gifts, and tons of delicious ready-to-eat food.
Don’t miss out on Piazza della Famiglia—the heart and soul of Little Italy. It’s a beautiful European-style public square connecting India and Columbia Streets, complete with a stunning fountain.
#4 Go Whale Watching
Get ready for an ocean adventure you won’t forget!
San Diego is a fantastic place for whale watching any time of year. But during the summer months, around 2,000 to 3,000 whales feed off the California coast.
These magnificent mammals can be up to 100 feet long. It’s utterly breathtaking to see their huge fluke rise from the water or to catch their towering spout far off.
While Blue whales are the summer superstars, you might also spot other amazing marine life.
Keep an eye out for acrobatic Humpback Whales, speedy Fin Whales, or smaller Minke Whales. And you’re almost guaranteed to see dolphins—sometimes in huge pods numbering in the hundreds or even thousands.
Most of the tours leave from places like Mission Bay or San Diego Bay. The boats are usually pretty comfy, with spots to sit inside or outside. Bring a windbreaker or hoodie, even if it’s hot on land—it gets chilly out there.
There you have it! Four solid, can’t-miss things to do in San Diego this summer that will leave you with actual memories instead of just sand in your shoes.
So, pack your swimsuit, don’t forget your sunscreen, and get ready for a summer break that will be all about fun.
