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San Diego Heat Wave: How to Stay Cool This Summer


a woman standing on a beach

A heat wave is enough to drive anyone mad. With the temperature rising, it just feels like there’s no escape. To make matters worse, it always seems to be hotter over the weekend – how can you stay cool this summer in the San Diego heat?

Luckily, there are some seriously cool things to do in San Diego that will help you beat the heat AND have an unforgettable weekend! We’ve got the ultimate list of San Diego heat wave busting activities to keep you fresh and entertained.

Here are our top 7 ways to stay cool this summer during the San Diego heat

  1. Go ice skating
  2. Go to a San Diego cool zone
  3. Splash around at the water parks
  4. Go swimming at Coronado Beach
  5. Visit an escape room
  6. Go on a Speed Boat Adventure
  7. Go bowling

1. Go Ice Skating, San Diego!

a group of people skiing on the snow

Why aren’t all the ice rinks open during summer? Well for one, some are open-air, so they’re only open in the winter. That doesn’t exactly help when you’re trying to escape a San Diego heat wave. 

Don’t worry though, there are a few indoor ice rinks to explore:

Synonymous with San Diego’s ice skating scene, the San Diego Ice Arena has been around for more than 34 years. They host weekly public skating sessions, family party nights, and teen events.

What we love the most about the UTC Ice Sports Center is that they offer free introduction ice shaking lessons. This is perfect for young children who’ve never tried ice skating before.

There isn’t a better way to escape from the heat than on the ice.

2. Find all the cool places to visit in San Diego

a close up of a sign

Aircon hopping instead of bar hopping – it should be a thing. There are some really cool places in San Diego where you can hide out from the sun. If you’re heading to the beach for a dip, explore the nearby restaurants with air conditioning. 

Cool zones in San Diego are also a great option. These are usually libraries or community centers, so they’re completely free to use.

3. Splash around at the Water Parks

San Diego is known for its great water parks. People here love it so much there is a public water park – the San Diego Waterfront Park. However, if you’re looking for something with loads of slides that offers an adrenaline rush, Aquatica is the place to be. 

One of their rides, the Taumata Racer®, takes things to the next level. Six side-by-side adrenaline junkies race down a daring 375-foot slide, and at the near end face a thrilling 180-degree swooping turn. It doesn’t get much better than that.

They’re also part of SeaWorld, San Diego – meaning as you drift down the river rides, you get to see flamingos, freshwater turtles, and a whole lot more. Make sure you slap on the sunscreen in the San Diego heat.

4. Go swimming at Coronado Beach

a group of people riding skis on a body of water

Miles and miles of shoreline, Coronado beach is a local favorite. Surprisingly, many people ask us, “can you swim at Coronado beach?” The answer is a heat busting yes. Not only can you swim, but you can also enjoy water sports like surfing, snorkeling, or scuba diving. 

  • San Diego Surf

Try the local surf lessons San Diego has to offer. You’ll be standing on the first day with help from the guys at Coronado Surfing Academy.

  • Snorkeling San Diego

Not many people know that Coronado Island is the perfect snorkeling location. Take your own gear or rent some locally. It’s a fun activity, just wear a full second skin as the sun can really burn your skin through the water.

  • Scuba Diving San Diego

There is one scuba diving company close to Coronado Beach. Ask Scuba Diving San Diego for options in and around Coronado Beach. They will help you plan your perfect diving adventure.

5. Get locked in a cool space with Escape Room San Diego 

There are a few escape rooms to choose from, but what’s great about The Hour Room is that all their games are currently private. This makes it the perfect social distancing activity in San Diego

Their most popular room is the Abandoned Basement. You’ve been kidnapped and left in a basement – get yourself out or face your abductors. We know it’s tempting to take your time and enjoy the air conditioning, but remember – that clock is ticking! 

6. Go on a Speed Boat Adventure

san diego speed boat tour group

This is the ultimate adrenaline activity. And, you get the cool ocean breeze along for the ride. Our San Diego boat rides are all about family fun. The best part – you don’t need any experience. The boats are easy to handle and the speeds are exhilarating. You’ll also get a tour of the Bay from the most unique perspective. 

You’d be amazed at just how cold the ocean breeze is, especially when you’re racing through it. It’s a great way to escape the heat.

7. Go Bowling San Diego style

Bowling San Diego style is all about the venue. It’s a fun San Diego heat retreat, complete with beach decor and delicious food. You get a private bowling lane, making this a great social distancing activity. If you’ve never gone bowling, don’t worry it’s easy and bloopers add to the fun.

ENJOY the summer sun while it’s here, just make sure you beat the San Diego heat. If you liked this post, share it with your friends by hitting one of the buttons below – they’ll thank you for it!