Planning to visit San Diego in December 2025? Discover a variety of events, attractions, and seasonal activities that promise an exciting and memorable visit. Here are the best things to do in San Diego December 2025, from holiday celebrations to outdoor adventures.
Key Takeaways
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Balboa Park December Nights kicks off the holiday season with a free festival featuring live music, food vendors, and a donation drive for the unsheltered.
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The San Diego Bay Parade of Lights showcases around 80 beautifully decorated boats, perfectly viewable from popular spots like Harbor Island, creating a magical holiday tradition.
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The San Diego Zoo’s Jungle Bells transforms the zoo into a festive wonderland with light displays, entertainment, and holiday-themed activities for families.
Experience Balboa Park December Nights
image by Kevin Koeppen Photography
Kick off the San Diego holiday season with a visit to Balboa Park December Nights, San Diego’s largest free holiday festival. This two-day event, held on December 5 and 6, 2025, transforms the park into a winter wonderland adorned with twinkling lights and filled with the sounds of live music, including nearby San Diego museums.
As you stroll through the park, you’ll encounter a festive atmosphere with food vendors offering a diverse selection of treats, dynamic museum exhibits, and engaging live performances that many have visited. Soak in the holiday spirit with family and friends, making it a memorable start to the season.
Attendees are encouraged to bring new socks for a donation drive supporting unsheltered individuals in San Diego, embracing the true spirit of giving. This community-driven initiative adds meaningfulness to the festivities, showcasing the importance of generosity during the holiday season.
Watch the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights
image by martin-dm
Another can’t-miss event is the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights, where around 80 boats, intricately adorned with lights, sail through the bay. This year’s theme, ‘An Out of This World Christmas,’ promises a galactic spectacle that will captivate viewers of all ages.
Head to Harbor Island, Seaport Village, or the Embarcadero for prime vantage points to see the parade’s twinkling lights reflecting off the water with the stunning San Diego skyline as a backdrop. The parade is free for spectators, making it an accessible holiday tradition for everyone.
This cherished event brings together the local boating community and San Diegans in a celebration of holiday magic. The parade’s route includes a stop at the pier at Cesar Chavez Park, ensuring that multiple spots along the bay provide great viewing opportunities.
Celebrate Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo
From December 19, 2025, to January 4, 2026, the San Diego Zoo transforms into a holiday wonderland with its Jungle Bells event. Included with admission tickets and memberships, this festive celebration features illuminated pathways, light displays, and holiday decorations that create a magical atmosphere for visitors.
One of the highlights is the holiday-themed storytelling and performances that delight both young and old. Special entertainers, holiday music, and unique food items add to the festive cheer, making it a comprehensive holiday experience. Evening visits offer a different charm, with lit pathways guiding you through the zoo’s transformed landscape while visiting.
Families can also enjoy interactive holiday games and live entertainment like a brass ensemble, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening. Don’t miss Santa’s Factory on select dates for a chance to snap a photo with Santa himself.
Jungle Bells is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while exploring one of San Diego’s most beloved attractions. Thousands of lights, special entertainment, and unique decorations make it an event that should be on everyone’s holiday itinerary.
Ice Skating at Hotel del Coronado
Imagine gliding on ice while taking in stunning views of the Pacific Ocean—that’s the experience you get at the Hotel del Coronado’s beachfront ice rink. Running from November 21, 2025, to January 4, 2026, this unique ice skating opportunity is set against the backdrop of the historic hotel and Coronado Beach.
Located on Windsor Lawn, the rink offers a 90-minute skating session beginning at check-in time. It’s ADA-compliant, ensuring everyone can enjoy the festive fun. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or stepping onto the ice for the first time, the combination of ocean views and holiday music creates an unforgettable experience.
After your skating session, warm up with a hot cocoa from one of the nearby vendors and take a stroll along the beach. The Hotel del Coronado’s holiday decorations and festive atmosphere will leave you feeling the holiday magic long after you leave, especially when you indulge in some holiday treats.
Explore La Jolla Cove and Torrey Pines State Reserve
Outdoor enthusiasts must visit La Jolla Cove and Torrey Pines State Reserve. La Jolla Cove is known for:
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Its breathtaking views
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Vibrant marine life, including sea lions and harbor seals sunbathing on the rocks
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Tidepooling during low tides, a popular activity that allows visitors to explore unique marine life up close.
Just a short drive away, Torrey Pines State Reserve in southern California offers diverse hiking trails with walking paths that provide stunning ocean views. The Guy Fleming Trail is particularly popular and suitable for all skill levels.
Whether you’re exploring the tide pools or hiking through the reserve, the natural beauty of these beaches makes them top attractions for both locals and visitors at ocean beach. The combination of coastal scenery and outdoor seating activities provides a refreshing break from the bustling holiday festivities, perfect for a day trip.
Attend SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration
image by SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is a holiday extravaganza that runs from November 14, 2025, to January 4, 2026. The park is transformed with over a million lights, creating a festive atmosphere that enchants visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights is the nightly snowfall that adds a touch of winter magic to the park. Guests can also enjoy:
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A special parade featuring Mrs. Claus and her elves
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New shows for 2025 like ‘Toymaker Trouble’
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Holiday shows featuring Sesame Street characters, which are always a hit with the younger crowd.
Family-friendly activities abound, from meeting sea lions in Santa hats to enjoying holiday-themed treats and interactive experiences. The combination of lights, entertainment, and festive cheer makes SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration a must-visit during the holiday season.
Discover Little Italy's Holiday Spirit
Little Italy comes alive during the holiday season with thousands of lights adorning India Street in the city. The neighborhood’s festive decorations, including large nutcrackers and kinetic trees, create a magical ambiance that delights visitors.
Restaurants in Little Italy offer special holiday-inspired menus, making it a great spot to enjoy Italian food while soaking in the holiday cheer. Don’t miss the annual tree lighting ceremony on December 6, 2025, which marks the official start of the holiday season in Little Italy.
Stroll under the beautiful lighted canopy, grab a cannoli, and explore the local shops featuring unique holiday gifts from local artists and local artisans. The combination of great food, festive atmosphere, and holiday spirit makes Little Italy a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
Whale Watching Season Begins
December marks the beginning of the whale migration season, when gray whales travel past San Diego. This natural spectacle is a must-see, and booking a whale-watching tour is highly recommended to ensure a memorable experience.
Tours departing from San Diego’s harbor primarily focus on spotting these majestic creatures. Prefer to stay on land? Areas like Torrey Pines offer great vantage points for visiting San Diego to glimpse the whales as they journey along the coast.
Visit Old Town San Diego for Las Posadas
Immerse yourself in tradition by attending Las Posadas in Old Town San Diego. This annual celebration re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, creating a historical and cultural experience that captivates participants. The event features a procession, live music, and refreshments, making it a community-oriented celebration.
Participants are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for a local food bank, adding a philanthropic element to the festivities.
Enjoy Winter Wonder Beachside at Belmont Park
Belmont Park’s Winter Wonder is a festive celebration featuring over one million lights. The park hosts holiday-themed trivia events, DJ-spun holiday music, and interactive experiences with characters like Santa and Buddy the Elf.
Families can enjoy ornament decorating activities for a small fee and face painting for children, available every Saturday and Sunday. The park’s specialty winter treats and drinks add to the festive cheer, making it a delightful destination for holiday fun.
The combination of lights, music, and family-friendly activities creates a winter wonderland that is sure to delight the whole family of all ages.
Summary
December in San Diego offers a diverse range of holiday activities that cater to all interests. From the bustling festivities of Balboa Park December Nights to the serene whale watching tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of La Jolla Cove, ice skating at the Hotel del Coronado, or soaking in the festive atmosphere at SeaWorld, San Diego’s holiday magic is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, gather your loved ones and experience the best of San Diego this holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Balboa Park December Nights held?
Balboa Park December Nights takes place on December 5 and 6. Make sure to mark your calendar!
What is the theme for the 2025 San Diego Bay Parade of Lights?
The theme for the 2025 San Diego Bay Parade of Lights is 'An Out of This World Christmas'. It sounds like a festive adventure awaits!
Are the activities at Jungle Bells included with admission to the San Diego Zoo?
Absolutely! All the activities at Jungle Bells are included with your admission to the San Diego Zoo.
Where is the best place to view the whale migration in San Diego?
For the best whale migration viewing in San Diego, consider booking a whale-watching tour from the harbor or head to Torrey Pines for a scenic vantage point. You won't be disappointed!
What kind of activities can families enjoy at Belmont Park's Winter Wonder?
You can have a blast at Belmont Park's Winter Wonder with fun activities like ornament decorating, face painting, and even meeting holiday characters! It's a great way to make festive memories together.
