San Diego Summer Bucket List: 20 Must-Try Experiences in 2025

Long days, ocean breeze, and endless things to do—San Diego in summer is a whole vibe. Whether you're a local or just visiting, 2025 is the year to soak it all in. From iconic attractions to off-the-beaten-path adventures, here are 20 must-try experiences to check off your San Diego summer bucket list—including the best cannabis lounge to unwind when the day winds down.

☀️ 1–10: Daytime Adventures

1. Paddleboard in Mission Bay
   Calm waters make it perfect for beginners and a peaceful way to start your day.

2. Hike Torrey Pines Reserve
   Gorgeous cliffside trails with panoramic ocean views.

3. Spend a Day at Coronado Beach
   White sand, charming surroundings, and the iconic Hotel del Coronado.

4. Take a Ferry to Coronado Island
   A scenic ride with views of the skyline—bonus points if you rent a bike to explore.

5. Explore Balboa Park’s Museums & Gardens
   Culture meets natural beauty in this 1,200-acre urban oasis.

6. Visit the La Jolla Sea Caves
   Go by kayak for a unique view of San Diego’s coastline.

7. Picnic at Sunset Cliffs
   Perfect for golden hour and easy-to-snap photos for your feed.

8. Tour the USS Midway Museum
   History lovers, this massive aircraft carrier-turned-museum is a must.

9. Catch a Padres Game at Petco Park
   Enjoy baseball with a view of the bay and tons of local food vendors.

10. Take a Surf Lesson in Pacific Beach
    San Diego is a surf town—try it at least once.

🌙 11–20: Nightlife & Chill Experiences

11. Watch the Big Bay Boom Fireworks (July 4)
    A summer tradition with unbeatable bayfront views.

12. Sip Cocktails in the Gaslamp Quarter
    Bar-hop through rooftop lounges, speakeasies, and live music spots.

13. Join a Beach Bonfire at Mission Beach
    Bring marshmallows, good vibes, and a Bluetooth speaker.

14. Cruise San Diego Bay at Sunset
    Plenty of companies offer romantic or party-ready sunset sails.

15. Stargaze from Mount Soledad
    Cooler temps and city lights below make it worth the drive up.

16. Dance at a Rooftop Party Downtown
    Summertime means open-air dancing with ocean breezes.

17. Hit a Night Market or Street Fair
    Check the calendar for rotating food festivals, art walks, and vendor nights.

18. Try a Nighttime Zipline at the Safari Park
    Yes—it’s a thing, and it’s as wild as it sounds.

19. Do a Late-Night Taco Crawl
    From Lucha Libre to Tacos El Gordo, San Diego’s taco game is unmatched.

20. Unwind at Sessions by the Bay – San Diego’s Top Weed Lounge
    When you're ready to slow down and elevate your summer nights, head to Sessions by the Bay, a stylish cannabis lounge offering everything from top-shelf flower to infused small plates.

Why Sessions by the Bay Belongs on Your Summer List:

• Vibe-Centered Atmosphere: It’s not just a weed bar, it’s a destination.

• Curated Cannabis Menu: From classic strains to edibles and infused drinks.

• Elevated Dining: Dine on unique cannabis-infused cuisine at San Diego’s go-to cannabis restaurant.

• Post-Adventure Chill Spot: Whether it’s after a beach day or a night out, this weed restaurant is where you come to relax and recharge.

Final Puff

Summer in San Diego hits different. Whether you’re catching waves, rooftop sunsets, or a mellow high at the city’s best cannabis bar, make 2025 the summer you check everything off your list.

Looking for a cannabis lounge, weed bar, or cannabis restaurant to wrap up your summer days? Sessions by the Bay is calling.