July is the peak of San Diego’s tourist season, attracting many families on vacation, as well as Arizona residents looking to escape the heat. Although San Diego is California’s southernmost major city, it typically enjoys cooler weather than Los Angeles, largely due to its coastal location.

July 4 in San Diego

On July 4th, San Diego offers a variety of fireworks shows and celebratory events that you can explore to commemorate Independence Day.

San Diego Weather in July

Predicting San Diego’s weather for July can be challenging. Some years see clear skies throughout the month, while other times, the June Gloom phenomenon may linger into early July. The weather is subject to sudden changes, so it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Evening fog is common and can bring a chill, so it’s wise to pack layers.

• Average High Temperature: 75°F (24°C)
• Average Low Temperature: 65°F (18°C)
• Water Temperature: 67°F (19°C)
• Rain: 0.03 in (0.1 cm)
• Sunshine: 68 percent

This weather information serves as a general guideline. It can be helpful for planning, but do verify the San Diego weather forecast prior to your departure to ensure adequate preparation.

What to Pack

When packing for San Diego, consider including short-sleeved shirts and lightweight pants, along with a sweater or jacket for layering during cooler evenings. Casual attire is the norm in most places.

If you plan on spending time at the beach, bring baby powder or cornstarch to help easily remove sand from your feet and belongings. This practical tip can make your beach experience more enjoyable.

July Events in San Diego

• Comic-Con: Considered the largest comic book and pop culture convention in the world.
• Imperial Beach Sun and Sea Festival: This coastal festival includes a sandcastle competition and other engaging activities.
• Humphreys by the Bay Concerts: An exciting outdoor summer concert series held on Shelter Island from April through mid-October.
• Old Globe Theatre: From late May to late September, outdoor Shakespeare productions are staged in a reproduction of his original Globe Theatre.
• San Diego LGBT Pride: A vibrant festival and parade aimed at promoting pride and respect for all LGBTQ+ communities.

Things to Do in July

• Enjoy San Diego’s warm summer evenings, perfect for outdoor activities.
• July is an ideal time to explore some of San Diego’s best beaches, with the tuna sportfishing season running from June through October.
• On Saturdays during July and August, the San Diego Zoo offers special overnight campouts geared toward families, with occasional all-adult events.
• Experience the unique California phenomenon known as the annual grunion run, occurring from March through August, where thousands of silvery fish mate under the moonlight.

While the events mentioned above occur annually, there are plenty of concerts, sporting events, and theatrical performances to check out as well. Explore your options to enhance your San Diego experience.

July Travel Tips

• July experiences peak hotel occupancy, so it’s advisable to arrange accommodations well in advance. Look for booking options that don’t include cancellation penalties.
• During large conventions, hotels in areas like the Gaslamp District often fill up quickly. Use a convention calendar to select dates with lower occupancy.
• If possible, avoid scheduling your visit during the Comic-Con week, as hotel rates soar and availability diminishes due to the influx of attendees.