Take some time away with loved ones for a Memorial Day break like no other. Surround yourself with plenty of sand, sun, water, and fun. The beach towns of San Diego County have something for everyone for a relaxing break this Memorial Day, with special Memorial Day activities in San Diego as well as year-round activities and attractions you won’t want to miss.
San Diego Zoo
The zoo was the pioneer of cageless exhibits and is a can’t-miss stop on your San Diego County Memorial Day itinerary. The zoo hosts over 4,000 animals, each residing in an authentic habitat, from deserts to rain forests, and everything between. Walk the zoo grounds on your own or take the tour bus that crosses three quarters of the zoo’s area. You’ll also get guided information so you can decide what you want to learn more about. For a birds’ eye view, the Skyfari gondola lift offers a beautiful view of the whole zoo.
World Design Capital San Diego Tijuana 2024
The event takes place throughout the year and highlights the area’s cross-border region’s “innovative use of design.” It’s an effort to strengthen economic, social, cultural, and environmental development in the area. The WDC 2024 designation is the first-ever binational recognition of its kind. The year-long program boasts design-related events that focus on civic engagement in an effort to boost local business and tourism.
San Diego Natural History Museum 150th Anniversary
Throughout 2024, the museum is celebrating the landmark anniversary. The museum will be debuting new art, as well as a Natural Trail this spring. One of the main attractions will be Action for the Archives, an exhibit set to open May 24, 2024 – just in time for Memorial Day. The museum website will be detailing all of the various anniversary activities.
Spa Day
Rest and relax completely during your Memorial Day retreat this year. While lazing around your rental is an option, spoil yourself with a special spa day. The many spas in the area offer services like massages, body wraps or scrubs, facials, manicures, pedicures, and more. Select spas offer a list of options just for men, that cater to their specific needs.
Coronado Island
Coronado Island is a day trip from the mainland beach towns of San Diego County that’s not to be missed. Take a guided tour this Memorial Day and learn about island history, including the first military flying school: the school where sailors first learned to take off into the wild blue yonder. Make a stop at historic Hotel Del, and add in plenty of shopping, dining, and other entertainment before heading back to the mainland.
Beaches
There’s nothing more iconic of Memorial Day and the start of summer on the West Coast than the beach. If you don’t plan on a dip, lay out and sunbathe, change up your exercise routine with a run or walk on the beach, or plant your beach umbrella, spread your towel or blanket, and kick back for some much-needed relaxation. Paddle your way through the water on a stand up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Up the adrenaline and the speed and take off on a jet ski or fly up to 500 feet above the water on a parasailing adventure!
San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour
When most people think of California and trolleys, the iconic San Francisco system may jump to mind first. On your Memorial Day trip to San Diego County, make time for the one here, too. The trolley isn’t just a different mode of transportation, it’s also an easy and affordable way to get around, minus the headache of busy parking areas with expensive rates at popular attractions.
Tour the whole 11-stop route before choosing your favorite stops. Your conductor is a knowledgeable guide who will fill you in on everything there is to see and do along the route. “Hop off” and explore further, then hop back on at a later stop, or when the trolley loops around to your location again.
Witch Creek Winery
The Carlsbad winery might not grow its own grapes, but it’s still a maker of delicious and award-winning wines. Make it a part of your Memorial Day trip. The winery also offers live music, open mic comedy nights, and other entertainment. There’s also a wine tasting room where adults of the group can taste by the one- or two-ounce taste. Choose from a selection of white, rose, red, or a variety of other specialty wines to pair with your next home-cooked meal.
Spend Memorial Day in San Diego County
When you start planning all the fun activities and adventures for your Memorial Day adventure to San Diego County, make sure booking comfortable and fun San Diego vacation rentals is at the top of the list. Kick off your planning by booking a vacation rental with Vacation Rentals By Kimberly.
We have accommodations as small as one-bedroom for a solo or sweetheart getaway this Memorial Day, all the way up to a seven-bedroom home so you and all your loved ones can enjoy a beach vacation.