9 crowd-pleasing things to do Memorial Day Weekend in San Diego

After a long winter, Memorial Day is the official kick-off to summer, and there’s no better place to spend it than in sunny San Diego. Whether you’re a local, new to town, or just passing through at the end of May, the following events will keep you busy and happy all holiday weekend long.

Start the weekend taking an island tour of the beautiful and historic city of Coronado. The city consists of five main regions: Bayside and Ferry Landing, Historic Downtown, beaches, Glorietta Bay, and Silver Strand. Spend your day exploring the numerous galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops, strolling through the tree-lined streets and beautiful parks, and relaxing on some of the most desirable beaches in America. There are numerous tours and activities in Coronado so be sure to swing by the visitors center on your way in to learn the best way to see the city throughout the day.

When: Ongoing
Where: Coronado

Experience Southern California’s wine country in Temecula Valley. Whether you’re an experienced wine taster or just an aspiring sommelier, there are more than 30 wineries located in this region situated one hour outside of San Diego. Wineries are open daily, and an appointment is not required.

When: Ongoing
Where: Temecula Valley

Enjoy some tasty brews at the 10th largest craft brewer in the United States, Stone Brewing Company. The company opened in 1996 but has come a long way since then, having been named “All-time Top Brewery on Planet Earth” by BeerAdvocate and recognized in the Inc. 500|5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies 11 times. To make it an extra special day, enjoy a public tour of the brewery to get a behind the scenes look at how the masters craft this specialty beer. Be sure to check the website for current tour times and prices.

When: Ongoing
Where: Stone Brewing Tap Room – 795 J. Street

You wouldn’t expect to find 1500 acres of untouched land sitting within San Diego city limits, but that’s exactly what you get when you visit the Torrey Pines State Reserve.  There is plenty to explore including a lagoon, the maritime chaparral, rare Torrey pines, and miles of beaches, all while getting a glimpse into what San Diego looked like before it had 1.3 million people living there. There are a variety of hiking trail options available, so don’t worry about your skill level. Grab your hat, throw on your trail shoes, and explore this beautiful land.

When: Ongoing
Where: Torrey Pines State Reserve

It wouldn’t be a weekend in San Diego if you didn’t take advantage of catching waves at Swami’s Reef. Located in Encinitas, San Diego County, this internationally known surf spot will get crowded when the weather is nice, the swells are high, and the tide is low. Swami’s is not for the beginner surfer, but if you don’t have the experience, consider relaxing on the beach and watching the experienced surfers put on a show.

When: Ongoing
Where: Swami’s Reef

Get an up-close look at La Jolla’s famous coves and cliffs with a kayak tour. This two-hour tour will take you through stunning marine life, coastal rocks and sea caves. The certified tour guides assure you’re in good hands and you can choose to take a single or double kayak.  On a good day, you’ll catch sea lions sunbathing on the rocks, leopard sharks swimming beneath you, and kelp beds surrounding your kayak. It’s the best, and most beautiful, way to experience La Jolla.

When: Year-round
Where: 2199 Avenida De La Playa

Spend a day with the celebrities at Del Mar beach, home to the Del Mar Races, San Diego County Fair, and Del Mar Village. This city is known for their beautiful beaches including The River Mouth (Dog Beach), north Del Mar City Beach, and south Del Mar City Beach. If you’re bringing your four-legged family members, head to The River Mouth, otherwise head to the north beach for a world-class sunbathing experience or south beach if you’re hoping for a more private tanning rendezvous.

When: Ongoing
Where: Del Mar

Baseball season is back in full-swing and there’s no better way to celebrate a long weekend than heading to Petco Park to catch a Padres game.  No matter where you’re seated, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of San Diego and an action-packed game from one of MLB’s top teams. If you have the time, opt for a park tour for a behind-the-scenes look at this world-class park.

When: May 29-31
Where: Petco Park,100 Park Blvd

If you’re wanting to get out of the city, hop in the car and head to Palm Springs. Located two hours outside of San Diego, Palm Springs is known for its hot springs, golf courses, hotels, and spas. Take a load off and enjoy this laid-back city with palm-tree lined streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and museums.There’s no shortage of sunshine and if you get tired of shopping and eating, the Coachella Valley offers hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.

When: Ongoing
Where: Palm Springs

With so much to do in and around sunny San Diego, your Memorial Day weekend is sure to be filled to the brim. Be sure to plan ahead and pre-schedule tours and get visitation tickets so you can take full advantage of everything this sunny, sandy, and surf-filled city has to offer.