Discover the best of San Diego in January! Find the perfect activities to make the most of your visit to America’s finest city this winter season.
Welcome to San Diego, where January unfolds with a mix of winter charm and coastal allure! While much of the world may be bundled up, our city remains a vibrant playground for those seeking January adventures. As the rest of the country shivers, San Diego invites you to embrace the warmth of SoCal.
January in San Diego means more than just a break from the cold; it’s a time when our beaches, parks, and neighborhoods come alive with a variety of experiences. Although January generally brings most of our rain for the entire year in San Diego, the month can still be a great getaway for travelers living in cold places. The normal dry and arid landscape turns green from all the rainfall and makes for some beautiful hikes on our local trails.
In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the best things to do in San Diego in January. So, grab your sunglasses, put on a light jacket, and join us as we uncover the warmth and wonder of San Diego in January.
Top Events happening in San Diego In January
Surf Big Waves
All Winter
Pacific Ocean
The waves are continuing to smash the coastline. Get your board and tear it up as a beginner or an experienced surfer on a variety of different waves along San Diego’s 70 miles of coastline. Follow the winds to find what waves are breaking where on any given day. Check out this list of surf spots in San Diego for more information on where to go to find your perfect wave this winter.
Go Hiking
All Winter
Torrey Pines State Park or East County Trailheads
The wintertime is the best time of the year to take on San Diego numerous hiking trails. The cooler conditions and recent rainfall make it the perfect time of year to get outdoors and hike on the nature trails. Some of my favorite hikes in San Diego are Three Sisters Waterfall, Cedar Creek Waterfall, Iron Mountain, and Torrey Pines State Park.
The Torrey Pines Gliderport is the ultimate basecamp on the coast if you are looking for an adrenaline-packed adventure. Choose between hang gliding or paragliding and let your feet dangle over the cliffs!
January Art Walk
January 3rd
Join the La Jolla Village Merchants Association as they kick off the new year with the monthly Art Walk on the inaugural Friday of January. Scheduled for January 5th from 4 pm to 7 pm, this event is a celebration of La Jolla’s renowned galleries, offering a complimentary opportunity to sip, snack, and stroll through 16+ iconic art spaces. Whether you’re a passionate art collector, a fan of the creative scene, or simply curious about emerging talents, don’t miss this free event that promises food, drinks, entertainment, and more.
Farmer’s Insurance Open
January 24-27th
ee off the year with one of golf’s most exciting tournaments, the Farmers Insurance Open! Taking place at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego, this event features the world’s top golfers competing on breathtaking cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Known for its dramatic finishes and picture-perfect scenery, the tournament is a must-see for golf fans and outdoor lovers. Beyond the fairways, the event also offers family-friendly activities, delicious food, and opportunities to meet fellow golf enthusiasts.
Winter & Spring Gray Whale Watching
Witness one of nature’s most incredible migrations as gray whales journey thousands of miles along the California coast! During this seasonal event, you can catch these majestic creatures breaching and spouting from the shore or embark on a guided boat tour for an up-close experience. San Diego is one of the best places to see these gentle giants during their migration from Alaska to Mexico.
San Diego Brew Fest
January 11th
Prepare your taste buds for a frothy adventure at the San Diego Brew Fest in January! This lively event transforms the city into a beer lover’s paradise, showcasing an eclectic array of craft brews from local and international breweries. With a backdrop of stunning views and an atmosphere buzzing with excitement, the San Diego Brew Fest in January is not just a festival; it’s a hoppy celebration that elevates the city’s brewing culture to new heights. Cheers!
Everyday Events!
There is always something happening in San Diego. Want to go to a pop-up bar that rolls along in a camper? Or buy some secondhand books? Whatever you are searching for, from the mundane to the unusual, San Diego has you covered. 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 in San Diego:
Tuesdays: Pacific Beach Farmers Market
Wednesdays: Ocean Beach Farmers Market and Drum Circles
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.
If you have any questions about other events happening in San Diego, please contact our receptionist at any of our local hostels.
Whether you’ve reveled in beachside adventures, discovered cultural gems, or indulged in culinary delights, there is an unlimted amount of things to do in San Diego in January. To make the most of your stay, consider experiencing the unique hospitality of ITH Hostels, with three locations in Little Italy, Pacific Beach, and Mission Beach. Book your stay now and let the comfort of ITH Hostels be the perfect backdrop for your San Diego adventure.
