These Are Our Favorite Things to Do in San Diego in Summer
There are so many things to do in San Diego in summer that it can be a challenge to narrow down your choices—which is not a bad problem to have. If you stay at Sunrise Inn San Diego, you’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy not only the best of Point Lima Village, but all the fun activities and attractions of San Diego at large. Read on for our list of can’t-miss things to do in summer, from waterborne activities to dining and events.
Sign up for Fishing Day Trips
A fishing trip is one of those quintessential Point Loma things to do, especially when the sky is cloudless and the ocean is calm and inviting. There are several fishing excursion companies in the area that can whisk you out on the water for an exhilarating day of catching fish.
Point Loma Sportfishing offers half-day and ¾-day trips, as well as full-day trips to the Coronado Islands, where you can try your hand at catching a wide range of fish species, from Dorado to Bluefin. H&M Landing is also located right in Point Loma and can arrange excursions for various group sizes.
Try Some Watersports
The ocean and bay are among the most enticing San Diego attractions, especially in the balmy summer months. While swimming and sunbathing will always be popular, sometimes it’s more fun to take the adventure a little further offshore.
From surfing and stand-up paddle-boarding to flyboarding and jet-skiing, there’s a ton of ways to enjoy the cool waters of the Pacific Ocean. There are plenty of rental companies who can supply you with everything you need to have a fun afternoon out on the water. Luxury Jet Ski Rentals and San Diego Bay Adventures are both located close to Sunrise Inn San Diego on Harbor Island.
Visit the San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is one of the top things to do in San Diego in summer—as well as any other season! A massive menagerie spread over 100 lush acres, it houses a wide range of animals from around the world. Many of the exhibits are open-air, giving visitors a much more up-close-and-personal peek into the fauna that make the zoo their home.
From lions and elephants to exotic birds and aquatic wildlife, this zoo transports you to a highly imaginative interpretation of a tropical paradise. Just make sure to bring sunscreen, water, and walking shoes—the zoo is notorious for its hilly parts.
Catch Some Point Loma Summer Concerts
Taking place across five Fridays in July and August, Point Loma Summer Concerts bring an air of carefree fun to the neighborhood—and best of all, it’s one of those San Diego summer events that won’t cost you a dime! Pack a picnic, head to Point Loma Community Park, and get ready for live music acts on the main stage starting at 6:15 p.m. (Performances on the Kids Stage start at 5:30.)
Let your inner geek out at Comic-Con
A hugely anticipated event in San Diego in the summer, Comic-Con International is one of the largest celebrations of comics and pop culture in the nation. Though it takes place at the San Diego Convention Center, festivities tend to spill out onto the surrounding streets, where it’s not uncommon to see pedestrians decked out as their favorite superhero or comic book character. Come for presentations, exhibits, and events; stay to enjoy the raucous party in the nearby Gaslamp Quarter.
Get inspired at the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra
Celebrating its 35th anniversary this 2023, catch North America’s top orchestral musicians all on one stage at the Mainly Mozart All-Star Orchestra. The festival will be held at Del Mar from June 15-18, 2023, and at La Jolla from June 20-24, 2023. This year’s Music Director, Maestro Michael Francis, will be joined by Los Angeles Philharmonic Concertmaster Martin Chalifour, Dallas Symphony Concertmaster Alexander Kerr, and Cleveland Orchestra Concertmaster David Radzynski, as Rotating-Concertmasters of this year’s festival. For more information about the event and the schedules, visit the festival’s website.
Don’t miss the San Diego Fair!
A summer staple in San Diego, this is a must-visit event in San Diego for locals and tourists alike. Held at Del Mar Fairgrounds from June 7 – July 4, 2023, prepare for some serious fun with awesome rides, jaw-dropping performances, and yummy eats. With awesome themed pavilions showcasing talents from near and far, plus epic competitions and dazzling art displays, there’s non-stop excitement for everyone. Check out the schedule of events and get tickets on their website.
Have fun at San Diego Bayfest
Celebrate San Diego’s beach culture and vibrant lifestyle at San Diego Bayfes on July 8, 2023, from 1:00pm to 10:00pm at Waterfront Park. Enjoy live music, savor delicious food, and partake in a variety of water activities, all while reveling in the breathtaking waterfront views.
Dine and Sip on the Waterfront
Point Loma Village is a destination unto its own, and the waterfront area is a delightful place to dine and drink. Head to Eppig Brewing to enjoy a cold brew while admiring panoramic views of the harbor. When you get hungry, get a table at Mitch’s Seafood or Point Loma Seafoods, both famous for their fresh-caught fare and lovely views. Want something a little more upscale? Head to Bali Hai, famous for their Mai Tais, which are purported to be the strongest around (they contain no juice!).
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There are countless ways to spend summer in San Diego. When you make Sunrise Inn San Diego your base for your summer vacation, the city’s best beaches, restaurants, nightlife, and events are practically right outside your door. Our clean, affordable hotel is in the heart of Point Loma Village, one of the most charming areas of the city. With free parking and WiFi, we make your time in San Diego convenient and comfortable.