United States, North America
San Diego in February
Whale watching continues. Anza-Borrego desert wildflowers can start in wet years.
The straight answer
February is a good month to visit San Diego. Whale watching continues. Anza-Borrego desert wildflowers can start in wet years.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 65F (18C), the wettest month
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 2 of 5
What February is like in San Diego
February is the wettest month in San Diego, though wet here still means only a handful of rainy days. Highs hover near 65F (18C), the hills turn green, and clear days between storms are crisp and bright. The ocean stays cold. Crowds are light and prices are low outside Presidents' Day weekend, and everything in the city is open.
This month suits couples, nature lovers, and families on a budget who are happy with a jacket and a flexible plan. It is a poor pick for anyone who wants guaranteed sun and swimming. For warm beach days, wait until late summer or September.
Make the most of February
What is especially good about San Diego this month.
Whales off Point Loma
Gray whale migration is still near its peak. Morning boat tours give the best odds, and the Cabrillo overlook is a free alternative.
Desert wildflowers in a wet year
After a rainy winter, blooms can start in Anza-Borrego, a long day trip east. Check the park's bloom updates before you drive.
Balboa Park on a rainy day
Seventeen museums sit side by side in Balboa Park, so a wet afternoon is easy to fill. Check which ones are closed that weekday.
What to pack for February
- A packable rain shell
- Layers you can add and remove, since sun and showers swap quickly
- Sturdy shoes that can handle muddy trails
- Sunscreen and a hat for a desert day trip
Our timing tip
Keep one day open and slide your beach or desert plans to whichever day shows the clearest forecast, and save museums for the rainy one.
Book San Diego for February.
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- Hotels for February
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San DiegoOpens a hotel search for San Diego in February, 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 February. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in February
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 February, quick answers
Is February a good time to visit San Diego?
February is a good month to visit San Diego. Whale watching continues. Anza-Borrego desert wildflowers can start in wet years.
What is the weather like in San Diego in February?
Mild, highs near 65F (18C), the wettest month.
Is San Diego crowded in February?
February is one of the quieter months in San Diego; most sights can be done without long waits.
What is happening in San Diego in February?
Gray whale migration (roughly december through april, peaking january to march).
Keep planning San Diego.
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