United States, North America
San Diego in November
Still pleasant and sunny, with lower rates. Thanksgiving week picks up.
The straight answer
November is a good month to visit San Diego. Still pleasant and sunny, with lower rates. Thanksgiving week picks up.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 70F (21C)
- Crowds
- 2 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What November is like in San Diego
November is mild and sunny, with highs near 70F (21C), cool nights, and only a little rain late in the month. The ocean is cooling, so swimming is for the brave. Crowds are thin and rates are lower than in summer, until Thanksgiving week, when families arrive and prices pick up. The whole city is open as usual.
This month suits couples, walkers, and families who want an easy, sunny break before the holidays. It is not ideal for a swim trip. If you want warm water, go back to September, and if you want whales, wait until December or January.
Make the most of November
What is especially good about San Diego this month.
Sunny sightseeing days
Clear, mild weather is perfect for Balboa Park, Old Town, and the Midway without the summer lines.
Thanksgiving in the sun
Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of the month, and a warm holiday by the water is a nice change for families from cold places.
Golden light on the coast
Late fall sunsets come early and glow over the ocean. Sunset Cliffs and La Jolla are great spots to watch.
What to pack for November
- A warm layer for cool evenings
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A light rain jacket for a late-month shower
Our timing tip
Travel in the first three weeks of the month for the best rates, and book early if you want to be here over Thanksgiving week.
Book San Diego for November.
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- Hotels for November
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San DiegoOpens a hotel search for San Diego in November, 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 November. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 November, quick answers
Is November a good time to visit San Diego?
November is a good month to visit San Diego. Still pleasant and sunny, with lower rates. Thanksgiving week picks up.
What is the weather like in San Diego in November?
Mild, highs near 70F (21C).
Is San Diego crowded in November?
November is one of the quieter months in San Diego; most sights can be done without long waits.
Keep planning San Diego.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in November
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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