March through May and September through November are the ideal months to travel to San Diego. In contrast to the peak summer season, you can find some exceptional movement rates during the low seasons. Nevertheless, there is never a truly terrible time to come due to the pleasant temperature, which averages approximately 70 degrees all year. However, it’s not a given that sunny days will follow suit. Long periods of May and June regularly have overcast days; as a result, the locals refer to these months as “May Gray” and “June Gloom.” And speaking of rain, San Diego experiences most of it throughout the winter months, making it hard to spend the day by the sea at this time (besides, the water is too chilly for swimming).
The best months to go are March and May.
One of the most incredible seasons to visit America’s Finest City is spring. Compared to mid-year, the weather is mild (average highs in the mid-to upper-60s) and there are fewer people using the roads and streets. In general, “May Gray” lives up to its name, so don’t count on seeing the sun all day every day. But if you enjoy flowers, now is the time to go if you haven’t already. The Coronado Flower Show, the largest rose blossom display in the United States, is held at this time, and the Carlsbad Flower Fields are in prime bloom even though San Diego isn’t exactly regarded as a destination for flowers.
Key Occasions:
Los Angeles EarthFair (April)
Goal Fed ArtWalk (April)
Flower Show in Coronado (April)
Buskers’ Fest (March)
Holiday Cinco de Mayo Old Town (May)
At the Bay, a Gator (May)
June-August
Due to the pleasant weather (average highs in San Diego hover in the mid- to high 70s) and numerous festivities, this is the most popular time of year to come. Regardless, it can be risky to visit this season. Since “June Gloom” occurs every year, scheduling your trip for the last part of summer is excellent if all you want is the sun. Room rates are likely to increase in July, especially during Comic-Con, the biggest event in the city. Since Comic-Con is so large, hotels in midtown, where the event is hosted, as well as in the nearby areas, are sometimes completely booked months in advance. Although August doesn’t have as many visitors as July, keep in mind that it is still San Diego’s busiest travel period, which means that travel costs are greater in August than they are in other months. Additionally, this is the busiest time of year for fishing fines.
Key Occasions:
Marathon of Rock and Roll (June)
International Beer Festival in San Diego (June)
Weekend Beer in San Diego (June)
Fair in San Diego County (June-July)
Los Angeles Pride (July)
Comic-Con (July) (July)
Season of Del Mar Racing (July-September)
[Best time to visit] September to November
In San Diego’s tourism sector, autumn is the ideal time of year to visit. Despite the fact that tourists often wait until well into September to enjoy the remaining mid-year weather (average highs remain in the 70s), October and November experience a decline in crowds and lodging costs. For the many culinary events occurring during this season, including Restaurant Week, foodies must travel during this period.
Key Occasions:
At the Creek, Jazz (September)
A blues festival in San Diego (September)
Gaslamp Taste (September)
Air Show at Miramar (September)
Foodie San Diego Week (September-October)
Defense Week (October-November)
Festival of Wine and Food in San Diego Bay (November)
December-February
The coolest time of year in the city is winter, but don’t expect a typical winter in San Diego. Normal highs are in the 60s and lows are in the high 40s, however, those lows often occur very late at night or very early in the morning. If you’re looking for an oceanside adventure, avoid coming at this time. Although the temperatures don’t correspond to those of a real winter, deluge rains can occur often. However, because the sea is so frigid at this time of year, most locals attempt to avoid approaching the coastlines altogether. However, during the colder months, hotel costs will often be lower. Try a whale-watching excursion if you wish to be on the ocean during a vacation during a cooler season.
Key Occasions:
Bay Parade of Lights in San Diego (December)
Balboa Park in the Winter (December)
Open Ranchers Insurance (January)
Fair for Chinese New Year (February)
The month of San Diego Museums (February)
BY: Randy Osei Akoto Citixen