Welcome to sunny Southern California! If you are planning a trip for spring break San Diego CA is one of the best spots to visit. The weather is beautiful, the beaches are inviting, and there is so much to see and do.
At Apek Rentals, we love helping our guests create the perfect vacation. With over 15,000 happy stays and 7 years of hosting experience, our goal is to make your stay comfortable and worry-free. We know this city well, and we want to share our top tips to help you plan an amazing spring break trip.
Whether you want to relax by the ocean, visit world-famous theme parks, or enjoy great food, San Diego has something for everyone. Let us show you our favorite ways to enjoy a coastal spring getaway.
Why Choose San Diego for Spring Break?
San Diego is famous for its perfect weather and laid-back vibe. During March and April, the daytime temperatures usually rest comfortably in the mid-60s to low 70s. This makes it a great time to be outside without getting too hot.
You can spend your mornings hiking or walking the boardwalk, and your afternoons relaxing in the sun. It is also a fantastic time to see the local flowers bloom and enjoy outdoor events before the busy summer crowds arrive.
💡 Local tip: About 85 percent of people who visit San Diego come for leisure travel. Spring is a popular time, so we always suggest planning your daily activities a little bit early to beat the crowds!
Where to Stay for Your Trip
Finding the right place to stay makes all the difference for your vacation. Instead of a crowded space, we highly recommend booking a private home. Having your own kitchen, spacious living areas, and a private outdoor space gives you true comfort.
When you stay in one of our San Diego vacation rentals, you get a luxurious and peaceful home base. You can spend your days exploring the city and come back to a quiet, relaxing space to unwind. We offer beautiful properties that keep you close to the beach and all the best local attractions.
Top Things to Do in San Diego
There is never a dull moment in this city. Here are some of our favorite spots to visit during a spring break trip.
Balboa Park
Balboa Park is the cultural heart of San Diego. It is a massive 1,200-acre park filled with museums, lush gardens, and amazing Spanish-style architecture. Our guests often tell us how much they enjoy simply walking through the park and taking photos.
You can explore the beautiful botanical building, listen to street performers, or have a quiet picnic on the grass. It is a very safe and clean area that is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Contact: (619) 239-0512
- Hours: Open 24 hours (museum hours vary)
- Insight: You can enjoy many parts of the park for free, including the stunning Rose Garden and public fountains.
Learn more about Balboa Park
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo is world-famous for a very good reason. Located right inside Balboa Park, it is home to thousands of animals from all over the world. We love that the animal habitats are large, clean, and built right into the natural valley.
If you visit, be sure to take the guided bus tour first. It is a great way to see the park without walking too much right away. The free sky tram is also a huge hit, giving you a wonderful view of the entire zoo from above.
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Price Level: Luxury
- Location: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
- Contact: +1 619-231-1515
- Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM
Learn more about San Diego Zoo
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld is a fantastic destination if you want a mix of thrilling rides and amazing marine life. The park is very clean, well-organized, and easy to walk through with kids.
Our guests love the incredible orca and dolphin shows. The park also features fun roller coasters and hands-on animal encounters. You can even feed the rays or safely touch small cleaner fish at the entrance!
- Rating: 4.4/5
- Price Level: Mid-range to Luxury
- Location: 500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109
- Contact: +1 619-222-4732
- Hours: Opens at 10 AM most days, closing times vary by day
Learn more about SeaWorld San Diego
Mission Bay
Mission Bay is a beautiful water park area surrounded by green grass and walking paths. It is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy the water but prefer calm waves instead of the open ocean.
This is a great place to rent a paddleboard, go kayaking, or have a family picnic. You can also rent bikes and ride along the wide, flat paths that circle the bay. The sunset views across the water here are truly special.
- Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: San Diego, CA 92109
- Insight: Parking is free at many of the public lots around the bay, making it an easy and affordable day trip.
Learn more about Mission Bay
Pacific Beach
If you want a classic, lively Southern California beach day, Pacific Beach is the place to go. It is very popular with young adults and families who want an active day in the sun.
You can boogie board in the ocean, relax on the soft sand, or walk along the famous boardwalk. There are plenty of fun shops and casual places to grab a quick taco or ice cream right near the water.
- Location: San Diego, CA
- Insight: The water in spring is usually around 56 to 58 degrees. If you plan to swim or surf for a long time, renting a wetsuit is a great idea!
Learn more about Pacific Beach
Gaslamp Quarter
When the sun goes down, the Gaslamp Quarter comes alive. This historic neighborhood is located in downtown San Diego and is famous for its beautiful Victorian buildings.
It is the top spot in the city for excellent dining and nightlife. Whether you want a fancy dinner, a casual burger, or just a place to walk around and enjoy the city lights, the Gaslamp Quarter is a must-see.
- Location: San Diego, CA 92101
- Insight: The Gaslamp Quarter is very walkable. We suggest finding a parking garage early in the evening and exploring the different streets on foot.
Learn more about Gaslamp Quarter
Plan Your Spring Break Getaway With Us
San Diego is an incredible destination that blends beautiful beaches, amazing parks, and a relaxed coastal lifestyle. Whether you spend your days watching the pandas at the zoo or paddleboarding on Mission Bay, you are sure to make wonderful memories.
At Apek Rentals, we are dedicated to making your vacation as smooth and enjoyable as possible. When you choose to stay in one of our luxury homes, you get privacy, premium amenities, and the trusted service of an experienced host.
Are you ready to start planning your trip? Contact Apek Rentals today. We would love to help you find the perfect home for your unforgettable spring break in Southern California.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do people go to San Diego for spring break?
Yes, San Diego is a very popular spring break destination. Millions of people visit the city during the spring to enjoy the mild weather, beautiful beaches, and world-class theme parks.
What is the busiest week of spring break?
The busiest time is usually late March through the middle of April. This is when many schools and colleges across the country schedule their spring holidays.
What week is spring break in California?
Spring break dates change depending on the school district. However, most schools in California schedule their break sometime between the last week of March and the second week of April.
What days do kids go back to school in San Diego?
Local students in the San Diego area generally return to school in early to mid-April, right after the Easter holiday. The exact date depends on the specific school district calendar.
