Planning a Fall Family Vacation in San Diego

A summer vacation can be a wonderful thing. Abundant sunshine, beach days and relaxing poolside are all great ways to spend some time off. But here’s the thing: EVERY day in San Diego feels like summer! That means it’s possible to have a summer vacation in San Diego no matter what the calendar says. In fact, temperatures actually tend to heat up in San Diego late Aug through early October. We think of it as something of a second summer. Still, once August draws to a close, so do the heaviest months of the tourist season — meaning that the beaches are less crowded, the lines are shorter, and the general pace of life around “America’s Finest City” gets even more relaxed. 

Looking for even more reasons to plan a fall San Diego escape? Read on. 

Exceptional Attractions

(Photo: @belmontparksd)

Since our weather is so year-round perfect here in San Diego, there’s never a bad time to visit fantastic open-air attractions like the world-famous San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park (with all of its amazing museums) and the timeless SoCal boardwalk experience at Belmont Park. And if SeaWorld San Diego is on your “must visit” list, The Dana even offers a special travel package that includes park tickets, food and beverage credits, souvenirs and more. 

 

Dazzling Day Trips

(Photo: @emmylawhon)

One of the things that makes San Diego such a spectacular vacation destination? Our surrounding communities offer some truly incredible options for family adventures. Whether you’re heading across the bridge to the serene beaches of Coronado Island, up the coast to the missions of San Juan Capistrano, or out to enjoy apple season in Julian, our neighbors always have some fantastic family-friendly activities on offer for you. 

 

Kids Free San Diego

(Photo: @theginahundley)

Every autumn San Diego becomes a paradise for kids. That’s because October is “Kids Free Month” around the city. You’ll find countless local attractions, businesses, restaurants, and other points of interest offering all kinds of free fun for kids. In fact, our very own Firefly Eatery & Bar is participating with a “Kids Eat Free” special all month long! Stop in and sample our tasty specialties, and your 12-and-under companions dine on us. 

 

Enjoy Some Fall Fun Down On the Farm 

(Photo: @batesnutfarm)

For more than 50 years, Bates Nut Farm has been welcoming families to their pumpkin patch for a truly “gourd” time during the fall months. Activities you can look forward to include tractor hay rides, a straw maze, a petting zoo, pony rides, and much more. While you’re there, don’t forget to grab a wheelbarrow and load up on an autumn harvest of squash, pumpkins, and other seasonal produce perfect for both dining and décor.

 

Pacific BeachFest

(Photo: @pacificbeachfest)

Pacific BeachFest is a family-friendly all-day bash that brings a whole host of fun to one of the metro’s most popular beachside communities. When you go, you can look forward to fantastic food, athletic exhibitions, live music, a vendor alley featuring local products, and lots more. This year’s Pacific BeachFest is scheduled to happen on October 7th, 2023, so be sure to mark your calendars. 

 

LEGOLand Brick-Or-Treat

(Photo: @legolandcalifornia)

Autumn Saturdays at LEGOLand California are Brick-or-Treat time! As one of the premier family-friendly events in Southern California, Brick-or-Treat truly offers something for everyone. Kids can come in their favorite fun or spooky costumes and enjoy seasonal experiences like extended ride hours, special food-and-beverage menu options, live entertainment, and fantastic new shows. The event runs from September to October. 

 

Plan Your Fall Getaway

(Photo: @danamissionbay)

Planning a fall getaway is easy thanks to the special offers at our Mission Bay-side retreat. Not to mention that The Dana offers families lots of great resort activities like movie nights, bike rentals, and even surf lessons. During the month of October, guests can also look forward to special Halloween-themed activities like spooky movies at the Tropical Pool, trick-or-treating costume contests, and more — so check back often for all the ghoulish goings-on. 

 Take a look at our San Diego travel deals today and secure the best rates for your stay!