5 Reasons to Spend 4th of July in San Diego
There’s summer, and then there’s a San Diego summer. Though this is the land of endless sunshine, where beaches never lose their luster, there’s something special about America’s Finest City once the 4th of July rolls around. Maybe it’s the celebratory feeling in the air, or the urge to get out and enjoy the height of the summer season. Whatever it is, this holiday is the perfect time to make a visit to California’s quintessential beach town. Read on for a few reasons we think opting for a San Diego family vacation during this time is a no-brainer.
The Amazing Fireworks Show
Colorful explosions reflecting over the ripples of the bay—what’s not to love about San Diego’s annual fireworks show? The San Diego Big Bay Boom—billing itself as California’s largest fireworks show—is set to take place on July 4th at 9 p.m. The best places to see the show include Shelter Island and Harbor Island, both close to Sunrise Inn San Diego, as well as North Embarcadero, Marina District, and Coronado Ferry Landing. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for a spectacular show across the night’s sky.
The Fishing Opportunities
The deep waters of the Pacific provide so many opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of fishing. When you stay at Sunrise Inn San Diego, you’ll be mere steps from the marina, where many fishing charters are based. For example, Point Loma Sportfishing offers a range of fishing excursions, from half-days trips to overnight trips. Daiwa Pacific, too, offers fishing charters, including private tours. Keep in mind that for most fishing charters, you’ll need a California Fishing License as well as a passport for trips that go to Mexico.
The County Fair
Visiting San Diego for 4 of July gives you one final chance to enjoy a beloved summer tradition: The County Fair. As a matter of fact, the holiday is the last day the fair is open, so you’ll have to make sure to squeeze it into your itinerary for the day. From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., you’ll have the chance to enjoy an array of fun carnival games and rides, as well as entertainment and hard-to-resist fair snacks. The County Fair will be held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in Del Mar, just north of San Diego.
The Beaches
It’s hardly a surprise that beaches made our list of reasons to visit San Diego for 4th of July, given their renown. But it’s the huge variety of beaches that make a summer vacation so much fun. When you want to absorb all the excitement of the holiday, head to Mission Beach, home to an action-packed boardwalk complete with a small amusement park.
Worried about rogue waves? Opt for the calm, kid-friendly coves tucked into Mission Bay or San Diego Bay. And with their clean shores and second-to-none views, Coronado Beach and La Jolla Cove are among the best family-friendly beaches in San Diego.
The Food
Though word is only now beginning to spread, in the last decade or so, San Diego has blossomed into a foodie’s paradise—one that can compete with any major city. The best part is that visitors can enjoy a plethora of cuisines and flavors on one of hundreds of family-friendly patios spread throughout the city.
Head to Panama 66 in the heart of Balboa Park, an open-air café with classic eats for adults and a kid-approved menu with items like mac and cheese and a grilled cheese sandwich. Or make a stop through Liberty Station and get a table at Stone Brewing World Bistro and Gardens, a family-friendly hangout with a bocce ball court, paths, and grassy lawns where kids can burn off some energy after ordering from the kids menu.
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For budget-friendly accommodations in an excellent area, nothing beats Sunrise Inn San Diego. Located a short distance to beaches, restaurants, and big-name attractions like the San Diego Zoo and Liberty Station, our property makes you feel at home during your San Diego 4 of July trip.