Spring into Summer in San Diego
There’s no doubt about it — the late spring / early summer period is one of the most exciting times to be in San Diego. The weather is more beautiful than ever, the flowers are in full bloom, and the events calendar warms up right along with the sunshine. If you’re planning to visit “America’s Finest City” as the seasons blend into each other, here are some of the best ways to spring into summer in San Diego.
Humphreys Concerts by the Bay (happening now)
(Photo: @humphreysshows)
The Humphreys Concerts By The Bay performance series is back and better than ever. This 1,400-seat open-air venue (located at our sister Property, Humphreys Half Moon Inn) is only a few miles from our front door, and represents one of the area’s most-renowned stages. Its waterfront location makes for a truly lovely setting, as well — affording local boaters a chance to float alongside the seating area, and take in the show from their craft. This year’s series presents shows from world-famous artists like Ringo Starr, Graham Nash, Indigo Girls, Tori Amos, REO SPeedwagon, Air Supply, Jason Isbell, Diana Krall, Chris Isaak, Collective Soul, and Chicago.
2241 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106
Belmont in Bloom (through May)
(Photo: @pacificterrace)
Belmont Park is the city’s favorite beachside boardwalk destination at any time of year. However, the park truly comes alive this spring with the arrival of their newest event! Belmont in Bloom is a brilliantly colorful celebration of the season, featuring festive floral displays, special themed treats, exceptional art, and lots of live entertainment. Planning to go? Pacific Terrace has partnered with our nearby neighbors at Belmont Park to offer our Fun in the Sun accommodations package, including bike and boogie board rentals, two tickets to ride the Great Dipper coaster, and much more. So hop on your bike and take a short beachfront ride down the boardwalk from our hotel to enjoy this exciting attraction during your stay.
3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Gator By the Bay (May 11 – 14)
(Photo: @gatorbythebay)
Gator By the Bay is San Diego’s answer to Mardi Gras, and it’s always an amazing celebration of food, music, and fun. This year’s shindig is shaping up to be a party for the ages. When you go, expect plenty of delicious Cajun and Creole food, multiple stages of live Zydeco and Jazz tunes, and the best bayou-style vibe this side of New Orleans.
Spanish Landing Park, 3900 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
A Magical Mother’s Day (May 14th)
Mom’s special day is always May’s second Sunday, and San Diego is a great place to celebrate. There are countless events happening around town (including cruises, concerts and more), but — it all starts with brunch. Our sister properties Humphreys Half Moon Inn and The Dana on Mission Bay are hosting sumptuous Mother’s Day brunches at their respective eateries, Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music, and Firefly Eatery & Bar. Be sure to make reservations soon — available times will fill up quickly. Then, relax at Pacific Terrace with an in-room massage, and poolside beverage service!
25th Annual Rock N’ Roll Marathon (June 3 – 4)
(Photo: @justrunsd)
This fast and furious race has put the “fun” into “fun run” since 1988. This year’s event is set to kick off at Balboa Park, and end in the heart of downtown. A 26.2, 13.1 and 5K will all be offered to anyone wishing to enter. Along the way, participants will feel the wind in their hair across eight of the city’s most celebrated neighborhoods and communities as they power to the finish line. There’s simply no better way to feel the vibe and rhythm of the city than on foot, so let’s rock and roll!
Sixth Ave. & Quince St, San Diego, CA 92103
San Diego County Fair (June 7 – July 4)
(Photo: @sandiegocountyfair)
Nothing says summer in the city like the return of the San Diego County Fair. With tasty treats, exciting rides, and plenty of entertainment options, the county fair is a great way to experience the best of San Diego. The theme of this year’s fair is “Get Out There”, encouraging everyone to enjoy the great outdoors. When you go, expect amazing food, incredible exhibits, pulse-pounding thrill rides, and world-class live entertainment. This year’s mainstage lineup includes music from Train, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Switchfoot, Boyz II Men, Alabama, and comedy from Kevin Hart.
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Big Bay Boom (July 4)
(Photo: @bigbayboom)
Independence Day is always a cause for celebration in San Diego, and 2023 is poised to be one of the biggest yet. The massive Big Bay Boom fireworks display will be taking place at 9 p.m. on July 4th, launching from four barges across San Diego Bay. This family-friendly celebration is always a fantastic time filled with food, music and fun. So bring a lawn chair, find a spot, and get ready to “ooh” and “aah” as the sky comes alive. If you’re looking for a spectacular show a little closer to our hotel, SeaWorld San Diego’s annual Independence Day display will take place just across the bay from us.
San Diego BayFest (July 8)
(Photo: @bayfestsd)
This year’s BayFest is an annual celebration of all the things that make San Diego great. 2023’s event at Waterfront Park is set to feature all of the stunning water views, incredible food, unique vendors and craft beers and cocktails that attendees of BayFests past have come to look forward to. It’s a one-day only event, so you’ll most definitely want to mark your calendar so you don’t miss out. Performers this year include Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley, Common Kings, Koffee, Prof, Denm, Khalil Nash, and more.
1600 Pacific Highway, San Diego, CA 92101
San Diego Pride (July 8 – 16)
(Photo: @sandiegopride)
San Diego Pride is the city’s largest LGBTQIA+ cultural celebration. The theme for 2023 is “Find Your Voice”, encouraging community participation and activism. This year’s Pride will once again feature large-scale live events, such the Pride Power Summit, Queer Prom, North Park Music Fest, and — of course — the massive Pride Parade, the region’s largest civic event. Don’t miss your chance to head out, BE out, and live it up!
Sixth Ave & Laurel St, San Diego, CA 92103
San Diego Comic-Con (July 19 – 23)
(Photo: @casplayed)
The world’s biggest celebration of comics culture returns to the San Diego Convention Center. The reputation of Comic-Con precedes it for fans of pop culture. For the uninitiated, Comic-Con is a massive event that draws more than thousands of attendees every year — every one there to honor the impact that all things superhero, sci-fi, fantasy, and magic have had on entertainment. Elaborate costumes, video games, panel discussions, meet-and-greets, and (of course) comics galore will greet visitors at the con.
111 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Del Mar Horse Racing Season (July 21 – September 10)
(Photo: @delmarracing)
The famous horse races at Del Mar have been a crowd favorite for decades. Fans first flocked to cheer on their favorites beginning in 1937, when Bing Crosby welcomed spectators to the stands. The legendary Seabiscuit took the inaugural race by a nose only a year later. So equine enthusiasts should head to the park, bring binoculars, and place a bet on their favorite pony while enjoying a gorgeous day out at this legendary series.
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014
Plan Your Stay at Pacific Terrace & Kick Off Summer With The Return of Fire Dance Fridays!
Planning a Memorial Weekend visit? Reserve your stay at Pacific Terrace Hotel! This holiday weekend kicks off the return of our Fire Dance Friday series. Enjoy poolside cocktails and a fire-spinning show, with a brand-new look this year. Stay tuned here for more info and learn more here.
If you’re planning a Summer escape, our beautiful beachfront location offers top-shelf accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and a central location convenient to every stop on the list. Check Out our Special Offers Page for all the latest San Diego travel deals this spring and summer!