United States, North America
San Diego in April
Comfortable and green. Gray whales heading north through the month.
The straight answer
April is a good month to visit San Diego. Comfortable and green. Gray whales heading north through the month.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 68F (20C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What April is like in San Diego
April is green, comfortable, and easy. Highs reach about 68F (20C), rain is rare, and most days are sunny, with a little morning haze on the coast later in the month. Crowds are moderate once spring break ends, and prices sit in the middle of the year's range. The ocean is still cool, but walking the beaches is lovely.
This month suits families, walkers, and first-time visitors who want to see the zoo, Balboa Park, and the coast in pleasant weather. It is not the month for serious swimming or snorkeling. If that is your priority, September brings the warmest water of the year.
Make the most of April
What is especially good about San Diego this month.
Whales heading north
Gray whales are still passing Point Loma on their way back north, often with calves. Shore watching from Cabrillo is worth a clear morning.
Balboa Park gardens in bloom
Spring is a good time to wander the park's gardens between museum visits. The weather is ideal for a full day outdoors.
The Safari Park in comfort
The Safari Park in Escondido gets hot in summer, but April days are mild. It is a great time for the open-range habitats.
What to pack for April
- A light sweater for mornings and evenings
- Good walking shoes for Balboa Park
- Sunglasses and a sun hat
- A light windbreaker for the coast
Our timing tip
Go in the second half of the month, after most spring breaks end, for the same weather with fewer families at the zoo.
Book San Diego for April.
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- Hotels for April
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San DiegoOpens a hotel search for San Diego in April, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in San DiegoWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in San DiegoTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in San Diego for April. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in April
Gray whale migration
Roughly December through April, peaking January to March
Whales pass close to Point Loma. Boat tours and shore watching from Cabrillo.
Things to do in San Diego
San Diego Zoo
Go at opening; the animals are most active in the morning. Plan a full day.
Balboa Park
Seventeen museums, gardens, and Spanish Colonial buildings. Many museums close one day a week, so check.
La Jolla Cove
Sea lions, seals, and snorkeling. Best in early fall when the water is warmest.
Cabrillo National Monument
Point Loma views, tide pools at low tide in winter, and gray whale watching from December through March.
USS Midway Museum
A walk-through aircraft carrier on the bay. A hit with kids.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Open-range animal habitats in Escondido, about 45 minutes north.
Beat the crowds
- Avoid Comic-Con week downtown unless you are going. Stay in La Jolla or Coronado if dates overlap.
- Hit La Jolla Cove and Torrey Pines early in the morning. Parking fills fast by late morning in summer.
- Visit the zoo on a weekday outside school holidays.
- Choose September and October for summer weather without summer prices.
Know before you go
- The city runs fully year-round. Some Balboa Park museums close one weekday each week.
- Beach water quality advisories can close stretches of shoreline after rain, especially near the Tijuana River in the South Bay. Check before swimming.
- Santa Ana wind events in fall can bring heat and fire danger to the region.
San Diego in April, quick answers
Is April a good time to visit San Diego?
April is a good month to visit San Diego. Comfortable and green. Gray whales heading north through the month.
What is the weather like in San Diego in April?
Mild, highs near 68F (20C).
Is San Diego crowded in April?
Crowds in San Diego are moderate in April; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in San Diego in April?
Gray whale migration (roughly december through april, peaking january to march).
Keep planning San Diego.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in April
Before you book.
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