United States, North America
San Diego in September
Summer weather, fewer people. The best month to swim and snorkel at La Jolla Cove.
The straight answer
September is one of the best months of the year to visit San Diego. Summer weather, fewer people. The best month to swim and snorkel at La Jolla Cove.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 77F (25C), warm ocean
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What September is like in San Diego
September is San Diego at its best. Highs stay near 77F (25C), the sky is clear, and the ocean is at its warmest of the year, often close to 70F (21C). After Labor Day, families head home for school, so beaches, the zoo, and La Jolla ease up. Prices are still fairly high, but rooms are easier to find than in August.
This month suits almost everyone: couples, swimmers, snorkelers, and families with young kids not yet in school. The only people who might skip it are those tied to a school calendar. If you cannot come now, October is nearly as good.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about San Diego this month.
Snorkeling at La Jolla Cove
Warm, clear water makes this the best month to snorkel the cove, with sea lions, seals, and bright orange garibaldi fish.
The last days of Del Mar racing
The racing season wraps up in early September, so you can catch a final summer day at the track.
Summer weather after Labor Day
The beaches stay warm and sunny, but the week after Labor Day feels like a different city, with calm sand and easy parking.
What to pack for September
- A swimsuit and rash guard for long days in the water
- A mask and snorkel
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- A light layer for the evening breeze
Our timing tip
Book for the week after Labor Day, when the water is warmest and crowds drop fast, and snorkel the cove in the morning before the wind picks up.
Book San Diego for September.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in San DiegoOpens a hotel search for San Diego in September, 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 September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
Del Mar racing season
Mid July through early September
Summer horse racing by the ocean; opening day is a big local event.
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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit San Diego?
September is one of the best months of the year to visit San Diego. Summer weather, fewer people. The best month to swim and snorkel at La Jolla Cove.
What is the weather like in San Diego in September?
Warm, highs near 77F (25C), warm ocean.
Is San Diego crowded in September?
Crowds in San Diego are moderate in September; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in San Diego in September?
Del Mar racing season (mid july through early september).
Keep planning San Diego.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.