Best Things to do During Spring Break for Kids in San Diego 2024

The idea of learning while on spring break might be groan-worthy for the kids at first, but they’re sure to change their tunes when they realize how much fun learning to surf can be. All-age surfing lessons are available daily during spring break.

There are few better places in all of Southern California to learn how to surf than La Jolla and its beaches, many of which have helped shape the history of surfing in San Diego, like Windansea Beach.

If you’re headed out of La Jolla, there are plenty of great surfing beaches all around San Diego County. The Pacific Beach area has some great waves for beginners, especially at PB Point and Tourmaline Surf Park.

The Fleet Science Center is filled with interactive displays that capture the imagination of kids. Exhibits like Color in a New Light let kids learn about the natural world through hands-on play.

The Fleet Science Center is at 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101, located inside of Balboa Park. It’s open from 10:00am-5:00 pm daily, with admission between $19.95 – $24.95 per person.

While you’re in Balboa Park, why not visit the Air and Space Museum or the San Diego Zoo? Just like Fleet Science Center, these attractions are all part of the All-inclusive Go City San Diego pass. Purchase your pass with our discount code to save on admission all around San Diego.

Additionally, check out our article A Complete Guide to All the Holidays in San Diego for more family-friendly ways to celebrate at these and other attractions throughout the year.

The San Diego Zoo Safari Park’s Spring Safari is especially fun for families. From March 18 to May 14th, you can visit the Hidden Jungle, a habitat that’s home to the park’s butterflies.

Kids can learn about the life cycle of these insects and walk among them on the Butterfly Jungle Safari. Unique experiences like these can be found all throughout our list, A Complete Guide to All the Holidays in San Diego.

This is a 30-minute activity which can be added on to any general admission for an additional $15. To keep your spring break budget-friendly, grab a Go City San Diego pass with our discount code to save on park admission.

A cruise around the bay is the best way to enjoy San Diego’s springtime weather. In addition to being able to relax and take in the beautiful scenery, going on a San Diego Harbor Cruise is also a great way to keep kids’ minds active during spring break.

Throughout the tour, your guide will point out landmarks like the Midway Aircraft Carrier and the Coronado Bridge, offering interesting history and trivia about each point of interest. You’ll also have a good chance of seeing local marine wildlife like seals and sea lions, who like to sun themselves by the bay.

The Harbor Cruise departs out of port in Embarcadero, right next to the USS Midway Museum. Tours run daily and cost $33 per person for a 1-2 hour cruise.

For many, spring break is synonymous with the sea and sand. For families, however, the prospect of navigating the college crowds can be daunting, as many of San Diego’s beaches attract spring breakers from all across Southern California.

If you’re looking to cool off in the Pacific Ocean in a more family-friendly atmosphere, head to the La Jolla Underwater Park in La Jolla, San Diego, California 92037. The Underwater Park is an excellent spot to swim, snorkel, paddle, and try out other water sports.

I love the Kayak and Snorkel Tour, which is a great way to see local wildlife while exploring the famous Seven Caves. Tours take about 2 hours and are offered at $133 per person, with all necessary gear included - just bring a wetsuit.

There are plenty of options for taking a tour of San Diego’s sights, but only the San Diego SEAL City Tour will take you to locations both on land and on the sea.

Also featured in our list of the 13 Best Harbor Cruises & Boat Tours in San Diego, the SEAL Tour uses a unique “amphibious bus” that can drive around the streets and traverse the harbor.

SEAL Tours are $49 per person and are offered from 10:00 am-2:45 pm daily. They depart from Seaport Village, a cozy shopping and dining center where you can pick up some souvenirs.

Tour the San Diego Bay and the shores of Point Loma at your own pace on the Drive Your Own Speed Boat 2-Hour Tour, which combines all the best parts of a guided tour with the freedom to drive a speed boat around the bay.

Rental boats are available daily from March 25-April 5 and tours are offered every 2 hours from 9:00 am-3:00 pm. Meet your guide at 1450 Harbor Island Dr., San Diego, CA 92101 on the left side of the marina, then head off on your own speed boat for two hours of fun.

Kids can experience the thrill of paddling, surfing, and sailing in San Diego at the Mission Bay Spring Break Camp. You can’t go wrong spending spring break at the ocean, and the camp allows kids to learn new skills and keep active.

Instructors will teach your kids the basics in their sport of choice, so beginners are welcome!

Spring Break Camp is held from March 25-April 5 at the Mission Bay Aquatic Center. Class times vary, so check the official site for more information.