San Diego California, USA Travel Guide
San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate. Expect warm, dry summers and mild, wetter winters.
San Diego generally avoids extreme climate events events. Heatwaves occur inland, but ocean breezes buffer coastal areas. Santa Ana winds blow hot, dry air from inland deserts, raising wildfire risk in fall. Direct hurricane strikes are extremely rare due to cold ocean currents. However, tropical storm remnants bring unusual rain and high surf.
San Diego generally avoids extreme weather events. Heatwaves occur inland, but ocean breezes buffer coastal areas. Santa Ana winds blow hot, dry air from inland barrens, raising wildfire risk in fall.
Direct hurricane strikes are extremely rare due to cold ocean currents. However, tropical storm remnants bring unusual rainfall and high surf.
Peak Travel Period
Best conditions for beaches plus water-based fun. All major attractions fully operational.
Expect significant crowds and higher costs. Be aware of morning marine layer ("June Gloom").
Ideal Visit Windows
Great for outdoor activities. September and October often bring clearest, warmest weather ("Locals' Summer").
Early June might still see morning marine layer. Ocean water remains cooler in spring.
Budget-Friendly Travel
Good value for travel. Whale watching season commences.
Cooler temperatures, higher chance of rain. Some attractions might have reduced hours.
The United States Dollar (USD or $). Major banks and currency exchange offices are available. ATMs are widely accessible throughout the city. Credit and debit cards are universally accepted for most purchases.
Common practice for hospitality services.
Appreciated for transportation services.
For assistance with luggage.
Leave daily with a note for cleaning services.
For parking services.
Entry to the United States, including San Diego, requires either a visa or qualification for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for most tourists.
Citizens of 40 designated countries qualify for short leisure or business stays up to 90 days.
Citizens of countries not in the VWP require a non-immigrant visa, typically B-2 (tourism) or B-1 (business).
Dial 911 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. This is a free call from whatever phone. San Diego maintains numerous high-quality hospitals and urgent care centers.
These approximate daily costs are per person and help in planning your budget.
Purchase a Go San Diego Pass or CityPASS for discounted entry to numerous attractions.
Utilize public transportation with a PRONTO card for affordable core area travel.
