Summer starts in San Diego in July
The weather clears and the summer really kicks on in San Diego in July. Starting with the 4th of July fireworks, the city lights up and the energy is high. The crowds begin to pour into the city but it doesn’t matter because the weather and beach are so stunning.
As far as San Diego weather goes for July, the average high temperature is 76 degrees Fahrenheit while the average low temperate is 66 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean has heated up and floats around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. July and August are the two warmest months for water temperatures and you don’t need a wet suit.
Top Events happening in San Diego In July:
San Diego Pride Festival
From July 12 to July 20, San Diego hosts its annual Pride Festival, celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. The festivities include the Spirit of Stonewall Rally, the Pride 5K, and the Pride Parade on July 19 in Hillcrest. The celebration concludes with a two-day festival in Balboa Park, featuring live music, food vendors, and community resources.
San Diego County Fair
Running through early July at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, the San Diego County Fair offers a variety of attractions. Visitors can enjoy live concerts, unique food offerings like fried Twinkies and apple fries, carnival rides, and exhibits. The fair is one of the largest in North America, with daily attendance exceeding 60,000.
4th of July Fireworks
June 4
Spending the 4th of July in San Diego is a lot of fun because there are so many great fireworks shows to see. No matter where you are in the city, you’ll find a good spot to watch. You can enjoy fireworks in La Jolla, where they shine over the ocean, or in Ocean Beach, which has a fun, beach-town feel.
Mission Bay is another good place, great for families and people who want to relax by the water. The biggest show of all is called the Big Bay Boom, with fireworks launched from several boats in San Diego Bay. You can see this show from spots like Shelter Island, Harbor Island, Seaport Village, and Coronado Ferry Landing.
Del Mar Racing Season
All Month
Each summer, the Del Mar Racetrack comes alive with excitement as it opens its gates for the seasonal horse racing events—and July in San Diego is the perfect time to join in on the fun. This iconic track, located right by the ocean in Del Mar, offers a one-of-a-kind experience filled with energy, tradition, and glamour. Opening Day is especially popular, with many people dressing up in their fanciest outfits and stylish hats for a day full of racing and celebration.
Go For Happy Hour @ Bali Hai
One of our favorite happy hour spots in San Diego in July is the iconic Bali Hai Restaurant, located on Shelter Island. This tropical-themed restaurant offers not only a fun and relaxing vibe, but also some of the best waterfront views in the city. During happy hour, be sure to try their “World Famous Mai Tai”—a strong, flavorful drink that locals and visitors alike rave about. Pair it with tasty appetizers like poke, coconut shrimp, or their popular egg rolls while you watch sailboats.
Go Hiking
Take a swim at Three Sisters Waterfalls!
East County San Diego is hot during the summer. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you. On most hikes in San Diego, you hike down to the water source and then have to hike uphill to get out. Take your time when hiking so you do overheat.
Everyday Events!
There is always something happening in America’s Finest City. Want to go to a pop-up bar that rolls along in a camper? Or buy some secondhand books? Check out The Reader for more daily events. It’s hard to know what you will be in the mood to do at times until you see all the options of the day in front of you.
Weekly Local Events:
Tuesdays: Pacific Beach Farmers Market
Wednesdays: Ocean Beach Farmers Market and Drum Circles
Thursdays: Pacific Beach Farmers Market
Saturdays: Little Italy Farmers Market
Sundays: Hillcrest Farmers Market
Everyday – Locals Ride Free – San Diego Trolley Tours
San Diego is a great destination year-round. Many other extraordinary events are happening and listed on the San Diego Events website.
For info on the live music scene, the San Diego Reader has a great list of upcoming shows.
If you have any questions about other events happening in San Diego, please contact our receptionist at any of our local hostels.
