Best San Diego Beaches in September & October for Low Crowds and Warm Water
- San Diego Beach Review
- Sep 29
- 4 min read
Disclosure: This section features several affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission if you purchase through these links. However, not all links posted are affiliate links. Click here to learn more.
Why September & October Are San Diego’s “Local Summer”
Locals call early fall “San Diego’s local summer.” Here’s why:
Warmest Water of the Year → 68–72°F thanks to the Pacific’s slow summer heating.
Perfect Weather → Sunny skies, mild humidity, daytime highs 75–78°F.
Smaller Crowds → Peak tourist season ends once schools are back in session.
If you want warm ocean temps and fewer people, September and October are the golden months to hit the beach.
Subscribe to our newsletter for updates and intel on everything in, on, or near the water in San Diego.
Best San Diego Beaches in September & October
1. La Jolla Shores
Why Go: Calm waters, lifeguards, and the best snorkeling in San Diego.
Seasonal Highlight: Snorkel with leopard sharks (late summer into fall).
Best For: Families, snorkeling, kayaking, beginner surfing
Activities: La Jolla kayak tours → | La Jolla surf lessons → | La Jolla snorkel tour →
Stays: La Jolla Shores Hotel →
2. Coronado Beach
Why Go: Wide sandy stretch, gentle waves, and warm water.
Local Tip: Check water quality before you go to ensure it's safe for swimming.
Best For: Families, relaxed swimming, scenic walks.
Stays: Hotel del Coronado →
3. Mission Beach
Why Go: Classic boardwalk energy in summer, but much more relaxed in fall.
Seasonal Highlight: Great surf lessons, beachfront bars, and rides at Belmont Park without long lines.
Best For: Couples, groups of friends, surf beginners.
Activities: Mission Beach surf lessons →
4. Pacific Beach
Why Go: Still lively, but less hectic than peak summer. Warm water + clean fall surf conditions.
Local Tip: Try a sunset surf lesson or beach bonfire in October.
Best For: Surfing, nightlife, social vibe.
Activities: Surf lessons at Pacific Beach →
Stays: Pacific Terrace Hotel → | Tower 23 Hotel →
5. Mission Bay Beaches
Why Go: Bay waters are warmer than the open ocean and perfect for paddleboarding or kayaking.
Best For: Families, beginners, watersports.
Activities: Kayak rentals → | Boat Rentals →
Stays: Paradise Point Resort → | Catamaran Resort Hotel & Spa → | Bahia Resort Hotel →
6. Moonlight State Beach (Encinitas)
Why Go: Family-friendly with picnic areas, restrooms, and lifeguards.
Seasonal Highlight: October evenings are perfect for beach bonfires.
Best For: Families, groups, late-day gatherings.
Stays: Alila Marea Beach Resort → | The Enicitian Hotel & Suites → | Cardiff by the Sea Lodge → | Moonlight Beach Motel →
7. Windansea Beach
Why Go: Rugged, scenic, and more local than touristy.
Local Tip: Bring a camera — early fall sunsets over the rocky coast are unreal.
Best For: Surfing, photography, romantic walks.
Quick Comparison: Beaches in September & October
Beach | Crowds (Fall) | Water Temp | Best For | Beach Guides |
La Jolla Shores | Light | 68–70°F | Snorkeling, kayaking | |
Coronado | Light | 69–71°F | Families, bonfires | |
Mission Beach | Moderate | 68–70°F | Surf + families | |
Pacific Beach | Moderate | 68–70°F | Surf, young crowds | |
Mission Bay | Very Light | 69–71°F | Families, paddleboarding | |
Moonlight Beach | Light | 67–69°F | Families, bonfires | |
Windansea | Very Light | 67–69°F | Surf, photos, couples |
What to Expect in September & October
Water Temp: 68–71°F (peak of the year).
Weather: Sunny days, cooler evenings.
Crowds: Weekdays especially quiet.
Check out the best time to visit San Diego beaches to help guide you for having the perfect beach day.
What to Pack
Snorkel gear: Affordable snorkel sets →
Wetsuit top/springsuit: For longer swims or surfing.
Light jacket: Evenings cool quickly.
Beach umbrella: Fall sun can still be strong midday. Best beach umbrella for withstanding the fall winds.
FAQ: San Diego Beaches in September & October
Can you swim in San Diego in October?
Yes! The ocean is warm, around 68–70°F.
Which beach has the warmest water in San Diego in fall?
Coronado and Mission Bay often run slightly warmer than oceanfront spots.
Is San Diego crowded in October?
No — October is one of the quietest, most relaxed months at the beach.
Do I need a wetsuit to surf in October?
Most surfers wear a springsuit or 3/2mm wetsuit, though casual swimmers are fine without.
Is October hurricane season in San Diego?
No — Pacific hurricanes don’t affect San Diego beaches directly.
Learn more about family friendly vacations on the coast to ensure you make the most out of your time in San Diego with your family and friends.
Also, be sure to subscribe to stay updated on everything pertaining to the coast.
Final Thoughts: San Diego’s Local Summer
September and October bring the perfect combo of warm water, sunny skies, and fewer crowds — the true “local summer.”
Ready to plan your fall beach escape?
Book a La Jolla kayak tour
Stay beachfront at Hotel del Coronado
Grab your snorkel gear and dive into San Diego’s best-kept secret.
Comments