“Cool” Ways To Beat the Heat in San Diego
San Diego is famous for its warm weather and abundant sunshine. September and October are usually the hottest months of the year here, so if you’re visiting during this time, then you’ll want to plan accordingly. Naturally, there are plenty of fun outdoor activities to enjoy when the temperatures start to soar. Here’s our rundown of the coolest ways to beat the heat in San Diego.
Hit the Beach
There might be no better place to go on a hot, sunny day than the beach. Here in San Diego, you can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, and surf along San Diego’s 70 miles of stunning coastline. With refreshing Pacific water temps, our local beaches are the perfect place to beat the heat for an afternoon and thankfully, our town is home to some of the best beaches in the country. From world-famous surf spots to dog-friendly beaches to popular stretches of sand lined with boardwalks, bars, and boutiques, there’s a beach here for everybody — check out our awesome blog post on to find the perfect spot for you!
Hit the Bay
Beaches usually get most of the love, but San Diego is also home to two beautiful bays that deserve just as much attention. Mission Bay in particular is the perfect place to enjoy gorgeous views and spectacular water sports. Adventure Water Sports (located at The Dana) is your one-stop shop for all kinds of water-sports rentals, including boats, jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks, aqua bikes, and more. Cool off, get some exercise (if you want), and explore San Diego on the water.
Waterfront Park
If you want to explore the city’s other bay — San Diego Bay — then we recommend a visit to Waterfront Park. This gorgeous green space is located right on the Embarcadero, within easy walking distance of Little Italy and the Gaslamp District. You’ll find large grassy areas, interactive fountains, themed garden rooms, jungle gyms, and picnic areas. Let the sea breeze cool you off as you take in panoramic views of Downtown San Diego, Coronado Island, and more.
1600 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101 | 5.8 miles from the hotel
Photo credit: @yogasix_littleitaly
SeaWorld
SeaWorld San Diego is known around the world for its impressive animal exhibits, spectacular shows, and interactive educational programs. One of the best parts about the park is that it’s almost all outdoors, meaning this is a great place to enjoy a beautiful day in San Diego. If it gets really hot, just take a ride on Shipwreck Rapids — as long as you don’t mind getting a little wet! If you’re staying with us at The Dana, then you’ll be within walking distance of the park, and we offer a shuttle as well.
500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109 | 1.2 miles from the hotel
Beach House at Belmont Park
If you want to combine your beach trip with some excellent drinks, dining, and DJ’s, then Beach House is the place for you. Located less than a mile on the Mission Beach boardwalk, this neighborhood hot spot features outdoor tiki bars, fire pits, cocktails and cabanas perfect for relaxing both during the day and at night. Delicious food, tropical drinks, live music, and weekend parties are all on the menu here.
3125 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109 | 1.1 miles from the hotel
Photo credit: @beachhousesd
Sweetwater Summit
When you’ve had enough of the beach, head inland to explore Sweetwater Summit Regional Park. This 500-acre park is great for fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and more. Pack a picnic basket and get ready for a pleasant day in the great outdoors.
3218 Summit Meadow Rd, Bonita, CA 91902 | 18.6 miles from the hotel
Photo credit: @thewhitepartyoffive
UTC Ice
When it really is just too hot to be outdoors, then UTC Ice is the perfect respite. This indoor ice-skating rink is located inside the beautiful Westfield UTC Shopping Centre and is sure to keep you cool.
4545 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122 | 9.9 miles from the hotel
Pools and Dive-In Movies
If you’re staying at The Dana, then you’ll have no trouble staying cool. Our bayside hotel features two sparkling pools perfect for splashing around and lounging the day away. We even host Dive-In Movie Nights every day at 8pm, where we screen family-friendly flicks that you can enjoy from the water.
Plan Your Stay
If you’re interested in enjoying San Diego’s warm, sunny weather, then take a look at our exclusive special offers and start planning your stay by the bay!