What to Expect From a San Diego Winter

Winter has come to San Diego, and although the cooler months here are far milder than most other areas of the country, we do still experience a seasonal change. Are you planning a San Diego winter trip and aren’t sure what to expect? We’ve put together this handy overview of what you can look forward to during your visit. 

Mild Weather

Say goodbye to bundling up when you spend your winters here. San Diego’s famously mild year-round weather is one of our biggest draws. During the winter months of December through February, San Diego enjoys an average daytime high of about 66°F. And sure — maybe some of the locals pull their windbreakers out of the closet when the mercury “dips” all the way into the mid-to-high sixties. But visitors from cooler climes are often in t-shirts.

No Umbrella Needed

San Diego’s climate doesn’t just boast far warmer-than-average temperatures than most of the rest of the country — it’s also drier on average. In the winter months, we never really experience those gray, damp days that plague so many other areas. In fact, the marine layer usually evens out in the winter due to lower temperatures keeping the ocean cool. We do have a small handful of rainy days in winter, but they’re very few and far between. 

Leave the Snow Behind

You may be facing treacherous roads and slippery sidewalks at home. But San Diego has only seen snow five times in the more than 125 years meteorologists have been keeping records. And the last time we had any measurable snowfall was 1967 (though, if you’re absolutely committed to seeing a little snow during the holidays, Julian is just over an hour away). Thanks to its higher elevation, it averages about two feet of snow per year. 

Smaller Crowds

We’re of the opinion that there’s simply never a bad time to visit San Diego, but the winter months may be the best time. Not only are the temperatures milder, but so is the overall population density. Tourism drops off quite a bit from November to February, so airfare is less expensive, lines at attractions are shorter, and the already-relaxed pace of life here mellows out even further. There’s no better way to beat the crowds than to visit us during cooler months.

Holiday Events and Adventures 

SoCal may not be the first place many folks think of when they think of winter, but that doesn’t mean we don’t know how to have seasonal fun here. There are countless festive goings-on you can enjoy without Jack Frost nipping at your nose. Be sure to check out the festive Bay Parade of Lights, a delightful decorated holiday boat promenade. Or see an seasonally-themed outdoor film at one of our famous rooftop bars — since the weather is always perfect for a flick under the stars. You can even go ice skating in many spots around town!

(Photo: @delcoronado)

Winter Getaways at Days

Days Inn San Diego Hotel Circle offers incomparable getaway packages that make spending some time with us this winter an easy decision. While here, you can relax and enjoy our convenient location just minutes from the beach, and exceptional amenities (such as our pool and hot tub — open year-round thanks to our mild weather). Grab a bite and a beverage at Bunz, relax poolside, or even visit SeaWorld, the museum complexes at Balboa Park, or the San Diego Zoo — the options are endless when you stay at the Days.