Springtime has arrived in San Diego County. And because San Diego is a destination city with so many things to do on the regular, these special picks are the best things to do during spring. Most of them can only be done during this season! So let’s explore 10 must-try spring activities that you can do while visiting or living in San Diego.

1. Spring Oasis at InsideOUT – Spring Activities in San Diego

We’re gonna kickstart your spring journey with the Spring Oasis at InsideOUT. Where you can indulge in refreshing cocktails amidst a lively, unique atmosphere. This restaurant boasts an ever-changing theme so that any season or holiday you come, you’ll see and experience different décor and a different menu. This theme is available from March 14 – May 11, 2025. Be sure to make a reservation because this restaurant is very popular.

2. Japanese Friendship Garden at Balboa Park

Nothing screams spring like cherry blossoms right? Enjoy the tranquility at the Japanese Garden in Balboa Park. Stroll through pathways adorned with cherry blossoms and serene ponds. It truly is a change of pace from the bustling city surrounding Balboa Park. It is $14 for general admission, and $12 for students, active military, or seniors with a valid ID. Children aged 6 or under can enter for free. And be sure to check their website to see their hours and days of operation.

3. Butterfly Jungle at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Quite possibly one of the busiest times of the year for the Safari Park is when Butterfly Jungle time rolls around. Available March 29 – April 20, 2025. For $15 per person, this 20 minute experience allows you to walk among colorful butterflies as they flutter around lush tropical gardens. It is extremely popular for all ages and consistently sells out. That being said, make sure that you plan accordingly if you want to experience this for yourself. Also note that this is considered a Safari experience and is a separate ticket price from the admission.

4. Strawberry Picking in Carlsbad

Experience the simple joys of spring by heading out to Carlsbad for a day of strawberry picking. Explore sprawling fields bursting with ripe berries, and savor the sweet taste of freshly picked fruit under the warm California sun. They also have their lavender field opening soon as well! You can not purchase tickets in advance, and the price will vary based on how much you want to pick.

5. The Flower Fields in Carlsbad – Spring Activities in San Diego

And right down the road front strawberry picking is our next stop! Get lost in a sea of vibrant blooms at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad. You can wander through 55 acres of ranunculus flowers in every shade imaginable. You can’t walk through the rows themselves, but don’t worry! There are plenty of photo spots to capture Instagram-worthy photos or take family pictures. They are known for selling out on popular days like weekends and holidays, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. Adult ticket prices are $23 per person for entrance into the Flower Fields. This does not include any bouquets of flowers, but you are more than welcome to buy some while you are there!

Pro tip: There are tons of photo opportunities that end up gathering large crowds. The first one that you see tend to be the most popular. But this is a 55 acre field! Walk down farther and there will be more photo opportunity areas that will be much less crowded. Including the big chair in the picture above!

6. Belmont in Bloom at Belmont Park

Experience the excitement of spring at Belmont in Bloom, located at Belmont Park in Mission Beach. This theme starts April 5, 2025. Non-seasonally, you can enjoy thrilling rides, carnival style games, a ropes course, a mini golf course, an escape room, and more.

But during Belmont in Bloom, you can also enjoy:

• seasonal decor and treats
• photo spots
• character meet and greets
• live entertainment from local artists
• sip and paint workshops
• succulent arrangement classes
• a Mother’s Day brunch and more!

Belmont Park is accessible without a ticket, but if you wanted to do any of the activities, that will cost money. So if you just wanted to go to get some cute pics and meet some fun characters, that is free. And because Belmont Park is right on the beach, be sure to bring your beach gear! That way when you’re done having springtime fun, you can go lounge on the sand.

7. Hiking in Torrey Pines

This activity is obviously not spring specific. But the incredible weather makes it a perfect spring activity. Hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Torrey Pines! There are countless scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the cliffside. And as you can imagine, the views are astounding.

Their hiking trails do range on skill level. For example, the Guy Fleming Trail is so easy and pretty flat while still offering an amazing view. In total, that trail takes about 10 minutes to get to the lookout point. But because these hiking trails are at the top of a steep hill, you may want to pay for parking just to get to the top. Last time I was there it was $25, but that price may vary based on holidays or weekends. It also may not always be available if it is a particularly busy day.

8. La Jolla Art Walk – Spring Activities in San Diego

Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene of La Jolla at the Art Walk taking place every first Friday of the month. Stroll through charming streets lined with galleries showcasing works by local and international artists. Perhaps you can even find the perfect piece to take home as a memento of your springtime escapade.

BONUS ACTIVITY: La Jolla is full of fun things to do in general. But one awesomely unique activity that you may not know about about is doing a Mystery Picnic adventure with AmazingCo! These picnics are a great opportunity to explore a new city, get to know your hometown even more, or go on a fun date. It’s a scavenger hunt with food! They offer tons of city locations around the world with more popping up all the time. Here’s a review on the Mystery Picnic that my husband and I did.

9. Art Alive and Bloom Bash at Balboa Park

Celebrate the arrival of spring with Art Alive and Bloom Bash at Balboa Park. Marvel at stunning floral arrangements inspired by famous works of art, and enjoy live music, delicious cuisine, and interactive activities that transform the park into a lively hub of creativity and culture. Art Alive runs for a very short amount of time – from April 24 to April 27, 2025. And Bloom Bash is the 21+ party for Art Alive on April 25 from 7pm to midnight. But this event is not for everyone. The ticket to get into Bloom Bash starts at $250 for members, and $350 for nonmembers. So even if you can’t do this one-night event, you can still experience Art Alive.

10. Julian Daffodil Show

Conclude your springtime adventure with the Julian Daffodil Show, a charming event in the small town of Julian. It only runs from March 23-24. Admire an exquisite display of daffodils in all shapes and sizes, and embrace the warmth and beauty of the season in this quaint mountain community.

BONUS Activity: Water Lantern Festival

Located at a number of different locations nationwide, including San Diego, the Water Lantern Festival is a Tangled fan’s dream event. I attended the one in Lake Elsinore and it was an absolutely beautiful, picturesque experience. Depending on the location you choose, this event may fall outside of the spring season. But it’s still worth being on your radar!

From blooming gardens to exciting festivities, San Diego County offers a wealth of experiences to cherish during the spring season. Embrace the spirit of renewal and discovery as you embark on your own springtime adventure in this enchanting corner of California.