San Diego in February is great. There is so much to do in February in San Diego, including lots of Black History Month Events and outdoor activities, including a bunch of races to keep us on track with our New Years’ resolutions.
Oh, and then there is of course, Valentine’s Day. If you are looking for a romantic getaway, San Diego is a great choice (check below for our romantic date ideas).
February is also still a good time to go whale watching in San Diego, so if you haven’t done that yet (or in a while), head on out to sea and see if you find yourself a Moby Dick.
The weather can still be a bit cold and wet, but in case it rains, you can take advantage of San Diego Museum Month and explore some of the best museums in San Diego, which will give you access to 40 San Diego museums for half the cost of admission.
San Diego Weather in February
As I mentioned before, the weather in February in San Diego is not the best. However, with an average high temperature of 66° F during the day, 51° F low during the night, and 7.1 average days of rain, “bad weather” in San Diego is still better than in most other places.
The average day in San Diego still gets 8.1 hours of sunshine in February, despite it being the wettest month of the year. You can enjoy a total of 11 daylight hours, enough to explore the beautiful city.
Water temperatures in San Diego in February average 58.6° F, which makes it the coldest month for ocean temperatures.
Take a look at the average February temperatures in San Diego plus rainfall for the whole year:
Average Temperatures & Rainfall in San Diego
So What Should You Wear in February in San Diego?
In February you should be fine with long pants and a thin sweater. I highly recommend a rain jacket for the evenings and in case you catch a few rainy days.
While it is mostly sunny, definitely research some indoor activities (hello Museum month) for your itinerary in case it rains.
Things to do in San Diego in February
San Diego Museum Month
When: February 1-28, 2023
Where: 60+ San Diego Museums
February is San Diego Museum Month, which offers 50% off admission fees in 40 San Diego Museums. A pretty good deal, right? All you have to do is head to a local library and pick up your pass. This pass is valid for San Diego residents and out-of-town visitors.
San Diego Black History Month
Most events for San Diego Black History Month are organized by various San Diego universities. Here are a few events that you can check out:
- Black Resource Center Change-a-Thon
- BLACK COM!X DAY 2023
- Lovin’ Black History Month
- Preschool Storytime & Craft with Ms. Dana: Celebrating Black History Month
Desert Spring Bloom
When the rain hits the desert, magic happens. A carpet of colorful wildflowers transforms the usually monotonous desert landscape into an impressionist painting.
Head out to Anza Borrego Desert Spring Park to check out the picturesque landscape or read our full guide on where to spot the wildflowers in Southern California.
Valentine’s Day Events in San Diego
Those in a relationship, don’t forget that Valentine’s Day is coming up! Check out some of our articles to surprise your loved one with something fun and unique this year:
Valentine’s Day Glass Heart Treasure Hunt Carlsbad Village
On February 11th & 12th, 2023, grab your partner and head to Carlsbad Village and go on a fun and exciting treasure hunt. All around Carlsbad Village, 200 handblown glass hearts are hidden in plain sight.
If you find one, you not only get to keep the stunning heart, but you’ll receive a code to enter a giveaway with cool prizes. Find all the details here>>
San Diego Mardi Gras
When: February 25-March 1, 2023
Where: Gaslamp Quarter/Pacific Beach
Mardi Gras in San Diego is notorious. Known as the best spot to celebrate Mardi Gras on the West Coast, you’ll find lots of beads, parades, and parties to attend.
Does it come close to New Orleans? Na! But the Gaslamp Quarter puts on a good show nonetheless and I am sure you will have a great time. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Check out this fun Mardi Grad Pub Crawl>>
San Diego International Jewish Film Festival
When: February 15 – 26, 2023
Where: Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center in La Jolla, California
40+ Jewish films are streamed in person and virtually during this film festival, including documentaries, narratives, and TV series. The Jewish Film Festival mission is to “promote awareness, appreciation and pride in the diversity of the Jewish people to attendees of the community at large.”
The festival is held over 11 days at five theaters across San Diego, so there’s sure to be a film near you.
Diego Runs & Races in February
February weather in San Diego is mild, making it perfect for a race! If your New Years resolution included joining a 5k, 10k, half marathon, or marathon, consider joining one of the following events:
- La Jolla Coastal 5k – Feb 11, 2023
- Ranch to Ranch 5k, 10K, & 15K – Feb 18, 2023
- San Pasqual Valley 20M, Half Marathon & 10K – Feb 4, 2023
- Coronado Valentines Day 5K & 10K – Feb 5, 2023
- Cardiff Kook Run 5K & 10K – Feb 12, 2023
- Sycamore Canyon Trail Runs Half Marathon & 50k & 100k – Feb 25, 2023
- T9 Mermaid 5K, 10K, & Half Marathon – Feb 25, 2023
- City Heights Runners 5K and Kids’ Fun Run – Feb 25, 2023
Looking for more ideas? Check out this Complete List of San Diego Marathons.
San Diego Bird Festival
When: February 22 – 26, 2023
Where: Mission Bay Park
If you are an avid bird lover or just want to learn more about our feathered friends, this festival is for you. From bird photography classes, expeditions on foot, bike, or even kayak in various locations, an exhibition hall, and many more bird-related activities make for a fun event.
San Diego Chinese New Year Fair
When: February 4 – 5, 2023
Where: Gaslamp Quarter
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at the San Diego Chinese New Year Fair! This two day event features inspiring performances, live music, Asian art and culture, plus really delicious Chinese and Asian dishes.
Whale Watching
When: December – April
February is one of the best times to go whale watching in San Diego. Winter through spring 20,000 gray whales migrate past the shores of San Diego during their round-trip journey from Alaska to the Baja California Peninsula.
For information on whale watching check out the Best Whale Watching Tours In San Diego.
As you can see, whether you’re a local or just visiting for a few days, there’s lots of fun things to do in San Diego in February! Which event will you attend this year?
Last Updated on February 2, 2023 by Maria Haase
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