🌞 Things to Do in San Diego, CA – July 2025
Here are the top San Diego summer events in July, complete with photos, official info, and a handy itinerary plus map to make planning a breeze!
🎆 Big Bay Boom – July 4th Fireworks
Experience California’s biggest July 4th fireworks show—Big Bay Boom! Launched from four barges in San Diego Bay at 9 PM, it’s a dazzling display viewed from Shelter Island, Embarcadero, Harbor Island, Marina District, or Coronado Ferry Landing. Bring blankets or chairs and tune into the fireworks soundtrack on 91X FM.
🌐 Official info & viewing tips: bigbayboom.com (bigbayboom.com)
🦸 Comic‑Con International 2025
From July 24–27, Comic‑Con International takes over the San Diego Convention Center. With celebrity panels, cosplay contests, exclusive previews, and more, it’s a can’t-miss for pop culture fans.
🌐 Get badges & schedules at the official Comic‑Con website (cargest.com)
🎡 San Diego County Fair & Del Mar Racing
- San Diego County Fair runs through July 6 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Enjoy rides, live music, and local food.
🌐 Learn more: sdfair.com - Del Mar Thoroughbred Racing season starts July 18 with horse races, family activities, and on-track dining.
🌐 Tickets & schedule: Del Mar Racing
Check both sites for daily schedules and pricing.
🏝️ La Jolla & San Diego Beaches
Summer sunshine means beach time! Highlights include:
- La Jolla Shores – Sand, surf, kayaking, and snorkeling.
- La Jolla Cove – Iconic cove with clear waters, marine life, and guided tours.
- Torrey Pines – Scenic cliffs perfect for hiking and ocean views.
- Coronado Beach, Pacific Beach, Ocean Beach – Broad sandy shores with boardwalks, bike paths, and beachside bonfires.
Plan your visit: San Diego beaches guide (sandiego.org)
San Diego – July 2025 Itinerary with Links & Highlights
July 4, Friday
– 9 AM-5 PM – Beach day & kayak in La Jolla Shores
Info: https://www.sandiego.org/explore/things-to-do/beaches-bays/la-jolla.aspx
– 6 PM – Dinner in downtown La Jolla
Suggestion: https://www.lajollabythesea.com/restaurants
– 8 PM – Arrive early for Big Bay Boom fireworks (Shelter Island, Embarcadero)
– 9 PM – Fireworks show begins
Details: https://bigbayboom.com
July 18, Friday
– 12 PM – Horse racing at Del Mar Fairgrounds
Info: https://www.dmtc.com/calendar
– 5 PM – Post-race dining & stroll
Dining Guide: https://visitdelmarvillage.com/eat
July 24-27, Thursday-Sunday
– Attend Comic-Con (Convention Center, Gaslamp Quarter)
– Check schedules for panels, exhibitions, cosplay
Official site: https://www.comic-con.org/cc/
All Month
– Explore Balboa Park events (check calendar)
– Visit San Diego museums and gardens
Events: https://balboapark.org/events
Main site: https://balboapark.org
Weekdays
– Morning beach visits or hikes at Torrey Pines
Info: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=657
– Afternoon exploring Coronado & Ocean Beach