The year-round sun and warmth of the beach towns of San Diego County is what make it a great place for a getaway no matter the time of year you come. Due to the climate, outdoor and San Diego water activities are never in short supply. There are several “on” the water activities to keep you busy and enjoying the weather and California sun.
Swimming
It’s difficult to be “on” the water without first getting in. Added to that, making sure your swimming skills can handle the ocean waves is a good place to start before embarking on any other adventure. Take a leisurely swim and stick close to shore, or swim out and ride the waves back to land. Even the most expert swimmers can encounter trouble further out in the water.
Remember to always watch children and inexperienced swimmers around water and have life jackets available to them before they enter the water.
Snorkeling
Unlike SCUBA diving where you plunge below the waves to explore, you can stick closer to the surface and still explore the wonderland below. You’ll get an up-close look at the many fish species and other marine life that call the waters off San Diego County home. Ask about daytime or sunset tours, as well as gear rental for when you’ve built your confidence and want to strike out on your own.
Jet Skis
For some adrenaline-pumping fun with loved ones, rent a jet ski and slice through the waters of the Pacific along San Diego County at top speed. Choose from several companies that rent jet skis for fast-paced good time on water. You may need to obtain a California boating certificate before piloting a craft, whether that’s on your own or during a group tour – some tour companies can help you with that before the adventure.
Paddle Sports
You may want to experience some fun and unique water activities with a paddle in your hand. Paddle your way through the water on a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Select companies offer lessons as well as rentals afterward so you can try your new skills in the privacy of just your group.
You can also choose the unique activity of glow kayaking – a nighttime adventure aboard a clear kayak with special underwater-safe LED lights. No matter the activity, make sure you have a life jacket.
Deep Sea Fishing
Charter a trip to the depths of the Pacific off the shores of San Diego County. There are several charter companies waiting to help you set sail in search of your next great fish story. Get ready to hook yellowtail, dorado, yellowfin, bluefin, and more.
Before your adventure, make sure to secure the proper California fishing license.
Fishing
You don’t have to brave the Pacific to reel in your next big fish story. In San Diego County, you can stick closer to shore and still reel in a catch worth boasting about. For some shore fishing, pack up and head to Coronado Central Beach, Silver Strand State Beach, Corona Del Mar State Beach, and others.
For some of the best pier fishing, visit Shelter Island Pier, Coronado Ferry Landing Pier, Embarcadero Marina Park Pier, or Ocean Beach Municipal Pier, to name a few. Be sure to secure the proper California fishing permits before casting a line.
Boating
The activity can include several other activities, too. Rent a vessel and simply cruise the water or go on your own sightseeing tour. Rather than taking it slow, up the speed and adrenaline. Hook up a line for activities like tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing, knee boarding, and more.
Find a secluded spot and drop anchor for a swim. When you’re participating in water sports, make sure to wear your life jacket. Pilots of boat rentals may need to secure a California boating permit/safety certificate before getting behind the wheel of a vessel.
Surfing
The activity is an essential part of California beach life. Gather your loved ones for a truly Southern California beach town experience. Professional instructors teach you everything you need to know to catch your own waves, either on a regular surfboard or on a windsurfing adventure – or both! Select companies offer rentals after the lesson, so you can continue to perfect your skills or take your adventure to your favorite spot.
Your Land Home Base for San Diego County Water Fun
When you start planning all the fun activities and adventures for your next vacation full of water fun in San Diego County, make sure to book comfortable and fun accommodations everyone will love. Kick off the planning by booking a San Diego vacation rental with Vacation Rentals by Kimberly.
We have accommodations as small as 1-bedroom for a solo or sweetheart trip full of “on the water” fun, all the way up to a 7-bedroom home so you can plan a beach reunion with all your loved ones.
