For most of the country, March may not bring upon images of beach days, surfing, and sun-soaked sunsets. However, it’s no secret that San Diegans are quite lucky! We do in fact live in “America’s Finest City!” Residents and visitors alike know that nothing beats a San Diego spring break.
We have put together a list of essential spots and activities to enjoy during the gorgeous spring San Diego days. Whether you are searching for a kid-friendly activity or have the desire for some adults-only time with a side of ocean views, we’ve got you covered with our new & improved Spring Bucket List of 2024!
CRSSD FESTIVAL – March 2nd-3rd
Music lovers are in for a two-day treat featuring some of the top electronic and dance music as well as house, techno, and even indie rock artists. Enjoy all of this from the beautiful Waterfront Park venue along Pacific Hwy.
SAN DIEGO RESTAURANT WEEK – March 3rd-10th
San Diego Restaurant Week, presented by the California Restaurant Association, returns to wow diners in its 20th year with over 100 restaurants across 30+ neighborhoods for eight days of dining. If you are a foodie and want to try out some of San Diego’s best cuisine, then crumble up your grocery list, put your apron away and book your reservations before they are gone!
CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL – March 7th-10th
Celebrate the return of the cherry blossoms to San Diego during the month of March. Marvel at the beauty of the iconic cherry blossoms as well as the koi pond and waterfall at San Diego’s Japanese Friendship Garden in the iconic Balboa Park.
SPRING FLORAL CLASS – March 10th
Join Dreams of Floral & Co. for a fun and creative Spring Floral Class in beautiful Oceanside! Embrace the blooming beauty of spring as we dive into a hands-on floral class where you’ll learn to create a stunning arrangement. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned flower enthusiast, this in-person event is perfect for anyone looking to explore their floral creativity.
ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE & FESTIVAL – March 16th
The 42nd Annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival will be held on Saturday, March 16, 2024 (rain or shine). This year’s theme is “Unity with Peace in Ireland, and Beyond,” recognizing the many daunting challenges people around the world face finding a home filled with love and goodwill rather than fear and violence. It is in that spirit that we will come together in our little corner of the globe (that being 6th and Laurel) to celebrate this “day of the Irish”, and the continued efforts of so many people to promote peace there, and around the world.
WSA WEST COAST CHAMPIONSHIPS – March 16th-17th
Sponsored by Western Surfing Association and hosted at the South Harbor Jetty in Oceanside, this is a surfing competition to qualify competitors for the West Coast Championships, U.S. Championships, Prime Event and any World Team Event. Viewing the competition is free and open to the public; all ages will enjoy taking in the thrill of watching surfers hit the waves!
SAN DIEGO COLOR FESTIVAL ON THE BEACH – March 24th
Get ready to celebrate Holi – the festival of colors, a traditional festival of India which is now celebrated worldwide. Everything that you can imagine and ask for in a Holi celebration, you will find it on Mission Beach, San Diego. Turn on your Instagram flex at this event, as you do your color dance with the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
JUNE SHINE RANCH BLOCK PARTY – March 30th
June Shine Ranch block parties are back in full swing, kicking off spring break with Warner Case’s “Here and Now Tour” at June Shine Ranch on March 30th! This 18+ block party event will showcase live performances by Warner Case, with support from Somasounds, Nate Katz, and San Diego-based DJ Zeeva.
NATIVE POPPY “PETAL POPS” – April
Native Poppy “Petal Pops” are returning to iconic San Diego locations… but it’s a secret as to where they will appear! If you’re new around here, Native Poppy has partnered once again with the San Diego Museum of Art in preparation for this year’s Art Alive 2024 exhibition. Think of it as an Easter egg hunt, but instead of looking for eggs, you’re hunting for flowers!
BOOTS IN THE PARK – April 6th
If you’re a fan of country music, this is a one-day festival you don’t want to miss! Boots In The Park presents Thomas Rhett, Lee Brice, Scotty McCreery, LOCASH, Rhett Akins and Alana Springsteen at Waterfront Park on Saturday, April 6, 2024. Experience a day and night, full of live music, craft food and cocktails, line dancing, beautiful views, and much more as Waterfront Park is transformed into San Diego’s BIGGEST country music party for the 8th year and counting!
SAN DIEGO BEACH & BAY HALF MARATHON – April 16th
Join us for the International Award-Winning San Diego Beach & Bay Half Marathon. Run through San Diego’s most beautiful beaches, picturesque bays, iconic resorts, and must-see destinations, including Sea World, Belmont Park, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Sail Bay, and Crown Point. After you cross the finish line, the celebration begins with a bayside festival featuring live music, a craft beer garden, a vendor village and an awards ceremony for top finishers.
CREEK TO BAY CLEAN UP – April 20th
Any day is a good day for a beach clean-up, but if you want to share your Earth Day by joining other volunteers to gather and remove harmful litter, this is the perfect event for you. The group is getting close to their goal of 3 million pounds of pollution since the event first began. Come join and do your part to keep our beaches clean.
SAN DIEGO SPRING HOME & GARDEN SHOW – April 27th-28th
Shop the latest in all things home improvement, and attend a free seminar including how-to’s by experts, knowledgeable advice and creative inspiration. San Diego Home & Garden Show is a one-stop shop for home improvement, service and advice. Come get some inspiration for your next house project.
WINE, BLUES, & BREWS – May 4th
Mark your calendars and get ready to unwind in the beautiful setting of Monserate Winery in Fallbrook. Enjoy an evening sipping on great wine, dancing to the rhythm of the blues, indulging in delicious food, and toasting with various spirits and brews.
GATOR BY THE BAY – May 9th-12th
The spirit, sounds and flavors of southwest Louisiana come alive at the largest and most-authentic Louisiana-themed music and food festival this side of the bayou. With everything from A to Zydeco, this 4-day, family-friendly cultural celebration takes place on picture-perfect San Diego Bay, featuring 100+ live musical acts & performances on 7 stages, wooden dance floors, shade, green grass and plenty of fun for the kids. See you there!
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ART MAGIC
Unlock the artist within at Art Magic Studio, where you’re invited to explore the vibrant world of creativity. Dive into the mesmerizing universe of epoxy resin and let your imagination flow with fluid art, and celebrate creativity at our lively painting parties.
CUDDLE THE BUNNIES
The cutest cafe in SoCal with real life bunnies that you can pet and feed! The cafe is called Grange Garden in Solana Beach and has pastries, hot chocolate and coffee! We hear the croissants are pretty amazing too. It’s $7/person to go in the bunny enclosure. Money goes toward bunny rescues around San Diego!
TRAINS & PLAYGROUNDS
A brand new park right by San Diego’s Snapdragon Stadium. The coolest part? A train goes right over the playground! Looking for the best way to visit? Search SDSU Mission Valley River Park in Google Maps. There is a free two hour parking lot. Complete with a play structure, rubber ground surface, multiple climbing structures, basketball court, large green space perfect for soccer, flying a kite, and running around, footpath with bike lanes perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers… you’re guaranteed to keep the kids busy for an afternoon.
A DAY AT THE NURSERY
Plant lovers unite! Spend the afternoon strolling through Terra Bella Nursery. This isn’t just any ordinary nursery though…Their Midway District location features a darling cafe called Selva Coffee House. This is the perfect spot to grab a unique drink, chat with friends, and do some plant shopping, making it the perfect hang-out spot.
AN ELEVATED ZOO EXPERIENCE
Not your average zoo experience. Enjoy an incredible view of the African Plains at the Safari Park’s newest gathering spot: the Watering Hole restaurant and bar. Watch rhinos and giraffes as you dine on menu items including tasty sandwiches and fresh salads, or relax with a refreshing beverage from the full-service bar with a wide selection of craft beers, wine, and mixed drinks.
SUSHI AT LIBERTY STATION
The Liberty Station Public Market has been popular with San Diego locals and tourists since it first opened. If you’re a sushi aficionado then you’ve got to try it out. The Sushi Stand offers a fun, vibrant and authentic hand-rolled experience.
BEACH COTTAGE TRANSFORMED BRUNCH SPOT
Where a delightful beach cottage has been magically turned into a cozy spot for breakfast and lunch. Indulge in scrumptious cuisine and refreshing beverages amidst the welcoming patio ambiance! Discover your new favorite brunch destination in Del Mar, where furry friends are always welcome on their pet-friendly patio.
SALT + LIME DEL MAR
Looking for a date night with some yummy modern Mexican food and the best cocktails in town? Look no further than Salt + Lime, voted the best Mexican restaurant in Del Mar. Salud!
SIDECAR TOURS
It’s not your traditional transportation, but this experience will be one you’ll never forget. Grab your helmet and your goggles and embark on an extraordinary journey as you tour San Diego in a sidecar. They offer all types of tours including wine tours, scenic tours, special event tours and more. What a unique way to take in San Diego and all of the fun experiences it has to offer.
SAN DIEGO JET BOAT RIDE
Want to experience the San Diego Bay like never before? Get the full force experience by reserving a high-powered jet boat. Race through the scenic waterways as your captain points out local landmarks and takes you on a thrilling ride with speed, spins and splashes!
MELLANO FARM STAND
Mellano Farm Stand is fun for the whole family! You’ll find tractor rides, u-pick strawberries, fresh flowers and produce, food trucks, live music…and even pigs! This farm truly brings the farm-to-table vibe with its wholesome events and activities. Be sure to check their website for all the up-to-date events and activities – there is always something fun going on at the farm!
HOT TUB CRUISING
Not quite warm enough to hit the sand and surf, no problem! Enjoy the one-of-a-kind hot tub boat and cruise through Mission Bay while relaxing in a warm, bubbly jacuzzi. The boat seats up to 12 people and comes with a sound system to play your favorite tunes as you cruise in style and take in the bay views and toast to the amazing San Diego lifestyle!
ARROWOOD FLIGHT DECK
Take your driving range to a whole new level and check out Arrowood Golf Course’s Flight Deck. The Toptracer technology will track your ball with real-time results as you hit on the “live” range. Enjoy playing some fun and interactive virtual games while relaxing in your private furnished bay with TVs, full-service staff and fun for the whole family! Have a blast at the Flight Deck any day of the week or take advantage of their Sunday Funday package on the last Sunday of each month for $25 per guest and includes a pitcher of beer and an appetizer. See you there 😉
HIKE POTATO CHIP ROCK
You know the saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” well how far would you hike to get your most Instagram worthy photo? Depending on where you start from the hike time can vary, but plan on about 2-3 hours to accomplish the hike and experience one of the most photographed landmarks in San Diego County. Due to its popularity and daredevilish feat, expect crowds and lines of people waiting for their chance to take a photo to add to their feed.
TIKI TIME BAY TOURS
Tour the bay the tiki time way! Daily tours of San Diego Bay with a tropical theme and comedic twist. Spend a day in the sun with good friends, premium drinks + lots of tiki. A fun and memorable experience for all ages.
FEED YOUR SWEET TOOTH AT DONUT BAR
Donut Bar has now become a franchise that is spreading across the nation, but the very original still stands in downtown San Diego. Featured on various talk shows and TV programs, you “donut” want to miss this yummy treat! Warning: You might have to wait in line, that’s how good they are.
WINE TASTING GALORE
In less than an hour drive, you can hit some of our favorite wineries in Temecula, Escondido, or even Ramona. We might not be in Napa or Sonoma wine country but we are in the heart of Southern California, and with that being said, there is some delicious wine to be had here. A not-so-known favorite in Temecula is Akash Winery with their artful and lively tasting room, or be sure to check out Speckle Rock in Escondido with magnificent views of the speckled granite boulders that are the survivors of the 2007 Witch Creek Wildfires, or enjoy Woof’N Rose in Ramona with a mom and pop feel and the mascot dogs roaming the property. You’re guaranteed a beautiful spring day in the vineyards at any of these great wineries.
The Ultimate Guide to San Diego Fun
If you want to keep up with fun things to do in San Diego and stay up-to-date on the current real estate market, drop us your email!
MAI TAI’S AT THE BALI HAI
The Bali Hai is one of those places that you need to try at least once. We don’t know what’s better, the views or the Mai Tai’s… One of the strongest drinks you’ll find in the city, they say you can’t have more than two, if that tells you anything.
ENJOY THE SECRET SWING VIEWS
La Jolla is well known as one of the most beautiful, picturesque neighborhoods. If you’re a local here, you more than likely have heard of the secret swings. Although they are hidden, they offer some of the most jaw-dropping views you can take in. Tucked away near the hills of the Birch Aquarium, the secret swings are an ultimate insider and a must to see. Half the fun is trying to find them…so good luck! 😉
HIGH TIDE DINNER AT THE MARINE ROOM
One of the best restaurants in La Jolla. If you are lucky enough, you can catch the tide at a time when the waves are crashing straight onto the windows looking out into the ocean. It’s definitely a San Diego bucket list item.
HIKE IN ANZA-BORREGO DESERT STATE PARK
If you’re up for a road trip, one of the best day trips we could recommend would be Anza-Borrego State Park. Known for their extraordinary spring wildflowers, and plentiful majestic views of so many of nature’s wonders. Visitors can expect cacti-studded hills, peninsular ranges, natural palm oases and gorgeous slot canyons.
Where: 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs
CATCH A PADRES GAME
Nothing quite screams spring break like catching a Padres home game! Not to mention, the stadium is conveniently in downtown San Diego and walkable to many of San Diego’s most popular restaurants and shops, so you can make a whole day out of it.
DAY TRIP TO JULIAN
The perfect day trip. Often known for apple picking, there is actually a lot of fun stuff to do when venturing to the small town. Of course, you must stop at Julian Pie Company to try the famous and delicious apple pie, but you can also hit one of the many wineries, check out the historical district downtown or explore the picturesque mountains.
SNAP PHOTOS OF THE FLOWER FIELDS AT CARLSBAD RANCH
If you’re in San Diego at all during March & April, the Carlsbad Flower Fields are essential for any spring break itinerary. The iconic ranunculus bloom a rainbow of colors during those months, offering vibrant flowers that can be viewed in over a dozen different colors. Not to mention the adorable tractor rides, and other events offered. Also a popular spot to capture your next best Instagram photo.
SEAL TOUR (SEAL & LAND ADVENTURE)
Combining land and water, climb aboard the big, bright blue amphibious vehicle and rumble around San Diego’s oh-so-fun and active waterfront areas. Perched high up, you get to see things from a different perspective. Cruise around until you get to the boat ramp on Shelter Island, where the Captain switches gears from land to sea mode, and takes off for the splash-in! A crowd favorite is circling the floating bait cages to watch sea lions basking in the sun and frolicking around.
GONDOLA RIDE AT LOEWS IN CORONADO
Looking for a unique and memorable experience that brings a little piece of Italy? Book a 50 minute long Italy-inspired gondola ride through the Coronado Cays. It’s one of the best things to do in San Diego for couples wanting a romantic date night. Make sure to make a reservation though, because they tend to get booked up in advance.
VISTA CONSERVANCY TRAIL
The Vista Conservancy Trail is a really fun spot to stumble upon. So much lushness in these woods, which takes you right along a creek. There are bridges and dams to find along the way and plenty of shade, making this a great hike all year long. It looks like the trail will be added to in phases which means there’s reasons to keep returning again and again!
CLASSIC HARBOR DINNER CRUISE
Reserve yourself a night of fun when you dine underneath the stars while at sea. The Classic Harbor Dinner Cruise could be the best romantic evening for a significant other or an elegant girl’s night out. Escape land and set sail for over 2 hours while dining, enjoying sensational scenic views, live entertainment, and more.
TIDE POOLS
Need to occupy some little ones for the day? Introduce them to the wild world of wonder that gets exposed during San Diego’s low tide. San Diego’s tide pools can actually be a great educational afternoon, searching for volcanic rocks, sandstone, seals, shore crabs, barnacles, mussels, fish, and even octopus.
HIKE TO SAN DIEGO’S BEST PANORAMIC VIEWS
If you’re looking for the highest peak in San Diego, with some of the best panoramic views you could ever ask for, Cowles is the hike for you, serving up 3 miles there and back with soaring views from Mexico all the way to Orange County. Because of the wide scenic presence, it is one of San Diego’s most popular hikes.
WHALE WATCHING TOUR
Spring Break is gray whale migration time. From December to April, these magnificent creatures migrate down to the California coast on their journey from the Bering Sea to the breeding grounds of Baja California. As you can imagine, sighting these gigantic mammals breaking the water’s surface with a huge splash is a jaw dropping experience that is sure to please the entire crowd!
SEGWAY TOURS
Sightseeing has never been more fun! Get into the beautiful sunshine and cruise through San Diego gliding on a segway. Another Side of San Diego Tours offers a 1.5 hour training and ride through Gaslamp District. You have a tour guide to lead the pack and narrate along the way. If you love that one, catch one of their others, Coronado, Balboa Park, Embarcadero, Downtown and City tours.
SPEND A DAY AT BALBOA PARK
History, science, and stunning biological beauty all collide in Balboa Park, where over 16 museums, multiple theaters, an abundance of lush gardens and trails are present. You could easily spend a day wandering around the many things Balboa Park has to offer. Fun Fact: Several museums offer free general admission on a rotating basis throughout each month to residents of the City and County of San Diego, and to active military personnel and their dependents.