San Diego in September is What the Locals Live for!
The weather is still warm and you will have the beaches to yourself. Visiting San Diego in September is paradise. The warm and dry air from the desert blows into San Diego creating a comfortable climate for a leisure vacation.
As far as San Diego weather goes for September, the average high temperature is 82 degrees Fahrenheit while the average low temperate is 64 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature in the Pacific Ocean is cooling off and averages around 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you didn’t get the chance to get out of the house yet this summer and are still looking for a getaway, I higher recommend you consider San Diego in September. The sun is warm, and the water feels so refreshing. You always don’t have to worry about crowds and high season prices.
Top Events Happening in San Diego In September:
SAN DIEGO BAYFAIR
September 12-14
The 2025 San Diego Bayfair returns to Mission Bay from September 13–15 for a weekend packed with high-speed thrills and waterfront excitement. Known as one of the premier powerboat racing events in the country, Bayfair features thunderboat racing, tunnel hulls, drag boats, and hydroplanes tearing across the bay at incredible speeds.
Beyond the races, Bayfair offers something for everyone—live music performances, a variety of local food trucks, specialty vendors, a beer garden, and a family-friendly kids’ zone
Del Mar Thoroughbred Races
September 1-7
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club’s 2025 summer racing season runs from July 18 to September 7, offering a thrilling lineup of horse races at the iconic Del Mar Racetrack. Located just north of San Diego, this seaside venue is renowned for its picturesque setting and vibrant atmosphere. Races are held on Thursdays through Sundays, with additional events on Labor Day Monday, September 1, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned racing fans and newcomers.
CRSSD Festival
Sept. 27-28
CRSSD Festival is San Diego’s biggest electronic music festival, coming back in 2025 to beautiful Waterfront Park in Downtown San Diego. This two-day, 21+ event is known for great music, ocean views, and a fun, lively crowd.
You’ll get to see top DJs and artists from around the world playing house, techno, and other electronic music on several outdoor stages. There will also be tasty food, craft drinks, and lots of space to dance and enjoy the sunshine.
Catch a Padres Baseball Game at Petco Park
April through October
Go for the home team or watch your favorite team play against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park in Downtown San Diego! The stadium is located in the Gaslamp District so plan on visiting some great bars for fun pregame and post-game entertainment!
Present your same-day baseball ticket to a receptionist at ITH Hostels and save $5 on your reservation.
See the Flaming Lips & Modest Mouse
September 3
San Diego will host an unforgettable evening of music at the Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre at SDSU. Indie rock legends The Flaming Lips and Modest Mouse will co-headline this special concert, joined by the Chicago-based band Dehd as the opening act. The show kicks off at 7:00 PM, with doors opening at 6:00 PM. This all-ages event offers a rare opportunity to experience two iconic bands in one night.
Rejuvenate with Yoga In San Diego
Various Dates
SoulStoked – Yoga on the Sea
Hosted by Soulfish Events aboard a luxury Triton catamaran yacht, SoulStoked Yoga on the Sea offers a 3‑hour mini‑retreat on San Diego Bay. You’ll flow through all‑levels yoga, guided meditation, and enjoy live DJ vibes, light refreshments, swimming time, and swag from local brands.
Sea & Soul Summit
Sea & Soul Summit brings together a vibrant BIPOC outdoor community at a seaside retreat in San Diego. Over three days, attendees can engage in yoga, cold plunges, tea ceremonies, sound baths, surfing, coastal hikes, kayaking, workshops with cultural leaders, and even an evening underwater‑themed party. It’s a holistic blend of healing, ocean connection, and cultural celebration
Go Hiking
All Month
Go on a fun hike to Potato Chip Rock, one of San Diego’s coolest and most popular spots. This thin, sharp rock sticks out over a big drop, giving you an amazing view of the city below. It’s a little scary but very exciting, and a great place to take pictures. The hike up is also a good workout and lets you enjoy the beautiful nature around you.
Go Rock Climbing in San Diego
The rock climbing and bouldering scene in San Diego is very big. Check out some of these locations:
Mission Trails Regional Park: Ideal for beginners and intermediate climbers, Mission Trails offers shaded climbing spots like the “Gorge,” which is southwest-facing and stays cool in the mornings. Guided sessions are available every Saturday from 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM, providing professional instruction and all necessary equipment.
El Cajon Mountain: For those seeking a challenge, El Cajon Mountain features multi-pitch routes with stunning views. Routes like “Sleeping Giant” offer a rewarding experience for climbers looking to push their limits.
Mount Woodson: Known for its extensive bouldering opportunities, Mount Woodson is a must-visit for bouldering enthusiasts. With numerous problems scattered across the hillside, it’s a playground for climbers seeking variety and adventure.
Skateboard in San Diego
Sunset Cliffs is a beautiful spot in San Diego right by the ocean. It has tall cliffs, rocky beaches, and lots of places to walk or skate along smooth paths. The area is next to the Pacific Coast Highway, making it easy to get to. Skaters love the gentle hills and wide sidewalks here because they are great for cruising and trying tricks. You can also explore sea caves and watch surfers riding the waves below. After skating or walking, you can sit and enjoy one of the most amazing sunsets you’ll ever see.
Weekly Local Events In San Diego:
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.
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
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.
If you have any questions about other events happening in San Diego, please contact our receptionist at any of our local hostels.
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