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San Diego is famous for its stunning coastline, perfect weather, and vibrant nightlife. While the day offers plenty of sunshine, the coastal region still has lots that can be enjoyed at night with a variety of activities for everyone. Whether you're a local or a visitor, here are some cool things to do in San Diego along the coast after the sun sets.
1. Watch SeaWorld Fireworks from the Beach
One of the fun experiences you can have in San Diego at night is watching the SeaWorld fireworks show from the beach. Every evening during the summer months, SeaWorld puts on an amazing fireworks display. You don’t need to be in the park to enjoy it—grab a blanket, head to nearby beaches like Ocean Beach, Mission Bay, or Mission Beach and enjoy the show with the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves in the background. They also have firework shows around holidays. Their firework shows are typically just between 2-5 minutes, and it's always nice to see fireworks reflecting over the water at night.
Dates: Weekends, 10 Minutes Before Close, Starting Friday 5/23 - Tuesday 9/2.
2. Bonfire on the Beach
A classic coastal experience, a bonfire on the beach is an iconic San Diego activity. Many beaches, such as Mission Beach, Mission Bay, Pacific Beach, and Coronado, offer fire pits where you can gather with friends or family, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing nearby. Bonfires are perfect for those looking to relax and unwind under the stars while enjoying some good company. Bring along some blankets and a cozy jacket because temperatures can cool down in the evening. Also, on weekends, you might need to claim your firepit
Beach Firepit Locations:
Mission Beach: South Mission Beach by the Jetty
Mission Bay: Crown Point Park, Fanuel St. Park
Coronado Beach: North Beach
Moonlight State Beach: Centrally located by main access points
3. Glow-in-the-Dark Pedal Boats
For a more adventurous yet laid-back evening, try glow-in-the-dark pedal boats on Mission Bay or San Diego Bay. As night falls, these boats light up with vibrant neon colors, creating an unforgettable experience on the water, surrounded by beautiful views of the coastline and the glowing lights of the boats reflecting on the water. It’s a fun and peaceful way to experience the water while making memories with friends or loved ones.
Check out these Pedal Boat Rentals, or you can also try a Glow Electric Boat Ride.
4. Outdoor Movies on the Bay
If you love movies and want to experience something unique, don’t miss Movies on the Bay at Mission Bay. During the summer, there are both free and paid for outdoor movie screenings held throughout San Diego. The films are shown on a large screen set up by the bay, so you can kick back on the sand, enjoy some snacks, and watch a great film under the stars.
Locations & Companies Offering This Service:
Catamaran Resort & Spa: Mondays at 8pm, from June 8th - September 2nd.
Seaside Cinema: Experience a private movie on the bay and customize the experience based on the different packages they have available. They'll set everything up for you as well! See here for more.
Beach Movie Night San Diego: Follow @beachmovienight on Instagram for more information and updates. They typically offer one movie a month year-round at different beaches and locations throughout San Diego. They've had them at Pacific Beach, Torrey Pines Gliderport, Mission Bay, and more. See here for more.
5. Movie Nights on the Beach
Another great way to spend a night along the coast in San Diego is by attending one of the movie nights on the beach. Various beaches in San Diego, including Coronado Beach and Pacific Beach, host outdoor movie events during the summer months. These screenings often feature family-friendly classics or popular films, and you can watch the movie while your feet are in the sand and the sound of the waves crashing nearby. Bring your beach chair or blanket, some popcorn, and enjoy the ultimate outdoor movie experience.
Locations & Companies Offering This Service:
Hotel Del Coronado: Sundays, from May 23rd - September 2nd. Reservations required and priority is given to overnight hotel guests. Multiple different packages available. See here for more.
Beach Movie Night San Diego: Follow @beachmovienight on Instagram for more information and updates. They typically offer one movie a month year-round at different beaches and locations throughout San Diego. They've had them at Pacific Beach, Torrey Pines Gliderport, Mission Bay, and more. See here for more.
6. Late-Night Dining by the Ocean
San Diego is known for its fantastic dining scene, and the coastal areas offer a variety of late-night dining options where you can enjoy fresh seafood and craft cocktails with an ocean view. Head to La Jolla or Del Mar for upscale dining with sweeping views of the Pacific, or check out Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach for a more laid-back vibe with casual eateries that stay open late. Watching the waves crash as you enjoy a delicious meal is a perfect way to wind down after an evening full of adventure.
See our blog posts on Bayfront Dining in San Diego and Oceanfront Dining in San Diego for restaurants on the coast.
7. San Diego Harbor Night Cruise
For a night out on the water, consider booking a San Diego Harbor Dinner Cruise. These evening cruises offer spectacular views of the San Diego skyline, the iconic USS Midway, and the lit-up Coronado Bridge. Some cruises even feature dinner and live entertainment, creating a romantic or festive atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of the harbor at night, this is a fantastic way to see San Diego from a different perspective.
Conclusion
San Diego’s coastline offers a unique way to experience the beauty of the area after dark. Whether you’re watching fireworks light up the sky from the beach, enjoying a glowing pedal boat ride, stargazing under the clear night sky, or relaxing by a cozy bonfire, there’s always something fun and memorable to do along the coast. So next time you find yourself in San Diego, make sure to check out these cool coastal activities and enjoy a night to remember. From movies on the beach to harbor cruises, the coastline is waiting to give you an unforgettable experience after the sun sets.
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