Cool Weather Beach Activities in San Diego (Fall & Winter Fun)
- San Diego Beach Review
- Nov 10, 2025
- 4 min read
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Why San Diego Beaches Shine in the Cooler Seasons
San Diego may be famous for its sunny summers, but locals know that fall and winter bring beach activities with their own magic to the coastline. The crowds thin out, sunsets burn brighter, and the crisp ocean air makes every activity feel refreshing
With water temperatures hovering around 60–65°F and daytime highs in the 60s to low-70s, the beach is still very much in play — you just need the right activities (and gear) to enjoy it.
Whether you want to surf in a wetsuit, take long coastal walks, or gather around a fire pit under the stars, San Diego offers plenty of ways to enjoy its beaches year-round.
Before we dive in, don’t miss future guides like this — subscribe to San Diego Beach Review for insider tips on everything to do in, on, and near the water.
Best Cool Weather Beach Activities in San Diego
1. Surfing in Wetsuits
Fall and winter are actually some of the best surfing seasons in San Diego thanks to bigger, more consistent swells. A 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit will keep you warm in the 60-degree Pacific.
Best Beaches: Tourmaline (Pacific Beach) or La Jolla Shores for beginners
Gear: Find the best wetsuits for each season, so that you can stay warm while you enjoy the water.
Surf Lessons: Try out a surf lesson in Pacific Beach, or go for a surf lesson in La Jolla Shores to help master your skills.
2. Fishing Along the Coast
Fishing slows down in summer, but fall and winter are prime months for surf fishing in San Diego. Corbina, halibut, and surf perch bite closer to shore when fewer swimmers are in the water.
Best Beaches: Carlsbad State Beach, South Mission Beach jetty, Crystal Pier, and Torrey Pines.
Gear Tip: Bring a light surf rod and waterproof boots.
See some more of the most popular fishing spots in San Diego, as well as deep sea fishing charters available.
Insider Tip: Winter tides are stronger — check the tide chart before casting.
3. Bonfires on the Beach
Cool nights are the perfect excuse for a beach bonfire. With fewer crowds, it’s easier to snag a fire pit, though arriving before sunset is still recommended.
Best Beaches for Bonfires: Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Moonlight State Beach, and Coronado Beach
Learn about fire pit rules in our San Diego Beach Bonfire Guide.
4. Long Walks & Beach Runs
With the sun lower in the sky and cooler temps, fall and winter are ideal for long beach walks or runs without the summer heat.
Best Beaches: Coronado Beach (wide and flat), Mission Beach boardwalk (paved), and Moonlight State Beach (dramatic coastal cliffs)
Insider Tip: Bring a windbreaker — coastal breezes can feel chilly once the sun dips.
5. Beach Yoga & Meditation
Cool mornings are calm, quiet, and perfect for yoga or meditation by the ocean. Bring a mat, layer up, and enjoy the sound of waves as your backdrop.
Best Spots: Fletcher Cove in Solana Beach, La Jolla Shores, and Sunset Cliffs (dramatic views).
Yoga Class: Beach yoga session in La Jolla
Insider Tip: Sunset yoga in the fall offers incredible lighting for photos and an unforgettable experience.
6. Tide Pooling Adventures
Winter’s low tides are perfect for tide pooling, where you can see starfish, sea anemones, crabs, and more.
Best Tide Pool Spots: Cabrillo National Monument, Cardiff State Beach, and La Jolla Cove.
Tours: Explore tide pools with a marine biologist and see tons of wildlife.
Insider Tip: Check the tide chart and go at low tide for the best marine life sightings.
Insider Tips for Fall & Winter Beach Days
Best Warm Beaches: La Jolla Shores and Coronado stay warmer thanks to their orientation and less wind.
Best Sunset Spots: Pacific Beach pier, Sunset Cliffs, and Carlsbad State Beach.
Photography Tip: Fall sunsets often peak after the sun sets — stick around 15–20 minutes longer.
FAQ: Cool Weather Beach Activities in San Diego
Do you need a wetsuit in San Diego in winter?
Yes. Water temps average 58–65°F. A 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended for surfing, snorkeling, or extended swims.
Can you have a bonfire at San Diego beaches in winter?
Yes. Fire pits are available year-round at select beaches, but bring your own firewood and arrive early.
What’s the best time for tide pooling?
Late fall and winter bring the lowest tides of the year — perfect for exploring. Always check tide charts.
Are beaches less crowded in fall and winter?
Absolutely. Fewer tourists mean easier parking and a more relaxed vibe.
What should I wear for a winter beach walk in San Diego?
Layers are best — a windbreaker or fleece over light clothing keeps you warm without overheating.
Final Thoughts
San Diego’s beaches aren’t just for summer. Fall and winter unlock a new kind of coastal magic — from crisp surf sessions and quiet yoga mornings to glowing sunsets and cozy bonfires.
With the right gear (wetsuits, jackets) and a little planning, you’ll find that San Diego is a year-round beach destination worth exploring.
Don’t forget to subscribe to San Diego Beach Review for more insider tips on the best beaches, activities, and coastal adventures.
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