8 Ways to Stay Cool in San Diego
Summer’s not over yet and since the San Diego heat can last well into our Indian Summer, we’ve rounded up some San Diego things to do to stay cool while still enjoying the attractions and gorgeous outdoors of America’s Finest City.
Waterfront Park
Grab the whole family and head downtown to the San Diego Waterfront Park for picnicking, fountain splashing, and taking in the cooler coastal breezes. The park features themed garden areas, children’s play zones and fountain jets that run from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. 1600 Pacific Hwy., downtown, 619.232.7275. sandiegocounty.gov
SeaWorld and Aquatica
Take a look at life under the sea at SeaWorld’s many aquariums and interactive learning centers, or sit in the splash zone at one of the shows. Sea World Dr., Mission Bay, 800.257.4268. seaworldparks.com. Aquatica by SeaWorld offers even more splashing opportunities as the waterpark invites guests to ride waterslides, wave pools, lazy rivers and more before relaxing at one of the poolside cabanas. Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily through Sept. 7, Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 27. 2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista, 800.257.4268. aquaticabyseaworld.com
Ice cream sandwich from The Baked Bear
Nothing screams delicious like an ice cream sandwich on a summer day. For a custom frozen treat with choice of cookies, brownies, donuts, ice scream flavors and toppings galore, head to one of the Baked Bear locations. The popular ice cream chain started in Pacific Beach and now has locations in Carmel Valley, La Costa and Petco Park. thebakedbear.com
Del Mar Races
Sitting at the heart of “where the turf meets the surf,” the Del Mar Racetrack celebrates its 78th season with the tagline as still being “cool as ever.” To avoid the afternoon heat at the horse races, find a spot in the shade, or better yet a seat in the Turf Club with a refreshing cocktail and ocean views. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, 858.755.1141. www.dmtc.com
Catch a Movie
Air conditioning isn’t all bad, and during the heat of the day step inside the Cinepolis movie theater for a luxurious cinema experience. In addition to plush reclining seats, the Cinepolis theaters in La Costa and Del Mar also offer at-your-seat waiter service, appetizers, entrees and a full bar. 6941 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, 760.827.6700. 12905 El Camino Real, Del Mar, 858.794.4045. cinepolisusa.com
Sip Cocktails
Beat the heat with refreshing summer libations. We’ve got our roundup of some of our favorite summer cocktails here.
Poolside at the Rooftop of San Diego Hotels
To find San Diego’s hottest pools head to the rooftops of some of the top downtown hotels. Offering views of the city as well as umbrella cocktails to sip, check out Rooftop600 at Andaz, Float Hard Rock Hotel, Manchester Grand Hyatt, The Westgate Hotel, LoungeSix at Hotel Solamar and SummerSalt at Palomar San Diego.
Head to the Beach
Aside from the obvious option to sunbathe on the gorgeous beaches of America’s Finest City, San Diego offers a wealth of water-centric activities to meet every interest. Try snorkeling or kayaking through La Jolla Cove, paddle boarding at Mission Bay, surfing at Tourmaline, or bringing your favorite four-legged friend to one of San Diego’s dog-friendly beaches.
