Don't Be a Grinch in San Diego This December: Fun (and Sunshine) in the Sunniest Winter Wonderland (Okay, Maybe Not Wonderland, But You Get the Idea)
So you're stuck with sunshine and mild weather while everyone else is battling blizzards and shoveling snow? ROUGH life, right? But hey, cheer up buttercup, San Diego in December is anything but boring! Here's how to turn your sunshine-filled frown upside down with some seriously fun activities.
What To Do In San Diego In December |
Deck the Halls (and the Palm Trees) with Festive Feasts
San Diego doesn't disappoint when it comes to delicious eats, and December is no exception. Think festive feasts with twinkling lights and ocean views. Plus, you won't even break a sweat rocking that ugly Christmas sweater – San Diego's balmy weather makes it socially acceptable (and frankly, encouraged).
Pro-Tip: Check out the Hotel Del Coronado's Skating by the Sea for an epic oceanfront dining experience with a side of holiday cheer (and maybe a tumble or two on the ice rink – whoops!).
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Light Up Your Night (Without Freezing Your Tush Off)
Forget bundled-up misery squinting at blurry Christmas lights! San Diego boasts some of the most dazzling holiday light displays on the West Coast. Here are a few to add to your twinkle-filled itinerary:
- Balboa Park December Nights: This free event transforms Balboa Park into a winter wonderland with over a million twinkling lights, live music, and enough holiday cheer to fill even the biggest Scrooge's stocking.
- San Diego Botanic Garden Lightscape: Immerse yourself in a magical world of illuminated trees, sculptures, and dazzling light displays at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Bonus points for the festive photo ops!
Feeling fancy? Take a harbor cruise and ooh-and-ahh over the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights – a stunning display of decked-out boats competing for the title of most dazzling.
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Embrace Your Inner Child (or Just Admit You Already Are One)
San Diego is a playground for all ages, and December is no exception. Here are a few ways to unleash your inner child (or, ahem, bring the kids):
- Holidays at LEGOLAND: Get your brick on with festive LEGO creations, dazzling light shows, and even a chance to meet your favorite LEGO character (Santa Claus is made of Legos here, right?).
- SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration: Shamu and his pals get festive with a dazzling light show, heartwarming shows, and special holiday treats (because who doesn't love a candy cane with their Shamu sighting?).
Looking for something a little more low-key? Belmont Park on Mission Beach offers festive fun with a classic boardwalk vibe. Think rollercoasters, ocean views, and maybe even a win on the claw machine (enough plush Santas to fill your living room?).
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How to Avoid Being a Festive Flounder: FAQ
Alright, alright, enough with the silly goose jokes. Here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions about spending December in San Diego:
How to pack? Think layers – you might need a light jacket in the evenings, but don't forget your swimsuit for those glorious December beach days.How to get around? San Diego has a great public transportation system, but renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the coast and all its hidden gems.How to score the best deals? Many hotels offer special December packages, so do some research and snag a great deal on your sunny holiday getaway.How to avoid the crowds? Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially at popular attractions.How to embrace the San Diego spirit? Relax, soak up the sunshine, and don't forget to pack your sense of humor – a little holiday cheer and a laid-back California vibe go a long way!
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So ditch the snow boots, grab your swimsuit (yes, really!), and get ready for a December to remember in sunny San Diego!