10 Things to Do in San Diego in February

In February, San Diego comes alive with a series of not-to-be-missed events. From exciting whale watching to vibrant Lunar Year celebrations, there are adventures to suit all tastes.

Carla Yaquer

Carla Yaquer

9 min read

10 Things to Do in San Diego in February

vista de palmeras |©Lasse Rheingans

San Diego becomes a haven of excitement in the month of Valentine's Day. From magical whale watching in the Pacific waters to captivating safaris at the Zoo Safari Park, the city is full of opportunities for adventure, a family trip or a romantic getaway.

During this month you can join in the Lunar Year festivities, where culture and tradition come alive in a burst of colour and celebration. However, if you prefer an encounter with nature, bird watching is an experience not to be missed. You'll also have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the extravagant fun of the Mardi Gras celebration. February is a great month to explore, discover and enjoy to the fullest, and while it's hard to decide on the best things to do and see in San Diego, I'll help you out with a quick rundown.

1. Attend SeaWorld Mardi Gras

Mardi GRAS San Diego|©Bobby Ghoshal
Mardi GRAS San Diego|©Bobby Ghoshal

In February, when you buy your SeaWorld tickets you have the perfect opportunity to enjoy a New Orleans-style festive experience full of colour, extravagant costumes and merriment during SeaWorld Mardi Gras.

Each year, in addition to seeing the park's regular shows like the DeepSEE VR experience, the Electric Eel, the marine wildlife tour or the adrenaline-pumping roller coaster, the last day of carnivals is celebrated on the grounds. On this day you can dance to live music, marvel at the creative costumes and indulge in the authentic flavours of Creole and Cajun food with a Mardi Gras twist.

Whether you're visiting San Diego as a tourist or a local resident, SeaWorld Mardi Gras offers a fun way to enjoy the culture and festive spirit of the season. Keep an eye on the park' s calendar of activities and events to make sure you don't miss a thing, buy your costume and make this one of your February must-dos - Laissez le bon temps rouler!

Buy tickets for SeaWorld

2. Take a tour of San Diego's best museums

Comic-Con Museum|©vmcampos
Comic-Con Museum|©vmcampos

February is Museum Month in San Diego! So it's the perfect opportunity to explore the city's best museums at a great price. Imagine visiting more than 60 museums, historic sites, gardens, zoos and aquariums throughout San Diego County at an incredible discount of up to 50% off.

You'll have the chance to buy tickets to the USS Midway Museum and visit America's favourite aircraft carrier exhibit; dress up as your favourite superhero at the Comic-Con Museum; learn about the history of vehicles, surrounded by almost a hundred of them, with the San Diego Automotive Museum Tickets

Every day in February, you can immerse yourself in a world of cultural experiences, making it ideal for those visiting San Diego in 7 days or more. Do you have a passion for virtual activities, behind-the-scenes tours or simply contemplating art and science? San Diego has it all - don't miss out on the special moments that only Museum Month can provide!

Buy tickets for the USS Midway Museum

3. Participate in the San Diego TET Festival

Triple threat!|©Southern Sea
Triple threat!|©Southern Sea

During the San Diego TET Festival you will have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the peach blossom, traditional symbol of the festival, and taste the variety of authentic dishes such as their spring rolls or Bo Bia, classic soups such as Pho or Bún Cha and of course their traditional sweets. But what is this event all about? It is the celebration of the Vietnamese New Year, and in this culture that means good food.

In addition, the festival also offers entertainment, games and activities for the whole family. Learn to make origami, perform a lion dance, take part in parades and enjoy a variety of cultural performances that will transport you directly to Vietnam.

This is an immersive event in one of the world's richest and oldest cultures. Where is the event? At Mira Mesa Community Park, 8575, New Salem St., you can get there with your ticket for the tourist tram or by public transport. Beforehand, I recommend you visit the San Diego TET Festival website to check out their schedule of activities and get the most out of your visit.

Buy your ticket for the sightseeing tram

4. Don't miss out on the whale watching activities

San Diego Whale Watching|©Ray Slick
San Diego Whale Watching|©Ray Slick

One of the most exciting experiences San Diego has to offer is an unforgettable whale-watching cruise. Don't miss the opportunity to take to the waters of the Pacific and witness the majesty of these marine creatures in their natural habitat!

One of the most popular activities in February is whale watching boat trips. The reason? Because it is in the middle of the grey whale migration season. There will be around 20,000 of them breaching off the coast so it's the perfect time to sign up for the best cruises in San Diego.

The sight of these giant sea creatures swimming close to the bay is truly breathtaking and will connect you with the beauty of the ocean for 2-4 hours, depending on the cruise you choose.

Plus, during their approximately 16,000-kilometre round-trip journey, you may even witness the birth of new ones off the city's coast. Expert guides on board will provide you with fascinating information about whale life and behaviour, making the experience educational and entertaining.

Book a Whale Watching Cruise

5. Take a safari at the San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo|©Gerardo Espíndola
San Diego Zoo|©Gerardo Espíndola

In February, a recommended experience in San Diego is to attend the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for its many benefits. By purchasing your tickets to the San Diego Zoo this month, you can access special Lunar New Year activities, qualify for senior discounts and participate in Mardi Gras-themed activities. This makes the visit a highlight on the list of the best things to do in San Diego with kids.

The Zoo Safari Park allows you to get up close to a variety of animal species such as giraffes, rhinos, lions and more in an environment that promotes conservation and education. Explore the diversity of wildlife in spaces that simulate natural habitats.

If you're looking for an exciting activity in San Diego in February, the safari at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park is a must-do.

Buy San Diego Zoo tickets

6. Enjoy a gastronomic tour on Valentine's Day

romantic couple at dinner|©cottonbro studio
romantic couple at dinner|©cottonbro studio

To celebrate the day of the naughty God, I invite you to pamper your partner's palate with a gastronomic tour.Book a gastronomic tour of the Gaslamp Quarter to celebrate Valentine's Day in a special way! This vibrant neighbourhood is the perfect place to indulge your senses with a culinary adventure.

Try the IPA beer, jumbo shrimp and ouzo saganaki at Meze Café and Grill; the golden hat at Rockin' Baja Lobster; the street food and signature cocktails at The Smoking Gun SD, and more.

In this area you'll find an array of restaurants with exquisite dishes prepared by talented chefs, expert pairings and irresistible desserts for that special day. It's not for nothing that it's one of San Diego's best food tours.

The Gaslamp Quarter offers a hipster, on-trend atmosphere. The lively streets, historic architecture and culinary diversity combine to create the perfect setting. If you're looking for an original and delicious way to celebrate Valentine's Day in San Diego, this plan is worth checking out.

Book a Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour

7. Celebrate Lunar New Year in San Diego

SD Lunar New Year TeT Festival|©Rodger
SD Lunar New Year TeT Festival|©Rodger

Celebrate Lunar New Year in San Diego and immerse yourself in the vibrant Asian culture. This holiday, also known as the Spring Festival, is one of the most important and colourful celebrations in Asia, and San Diego offers you the opportunity to enjoy it in all its glory.

During the Lunar New Year, the city dresses in red and gold to receive good fortune and prosperity. You can participate in parades filled with floats and cultural performances, where dragon dancers will amaze you with their skill and grace. If you'd like to delve deeper into this art, you can even visit the Chinese Theatre, included with the purchase of the San Diego Explorer Pass. In addition, you have the opportunity to take a food tour among numerous restaurants and street food stalls.

The Lunar New Year is a festival full of symbolism and ancient traditions. When is it celebrated? Between late January and early February. Be prepared to do your good luck rituals, such as releasing paper lanterns into the sky and burning fireworks to ward off evil spirits, or writing wishes on red paper and hanging them on the festival trees. Where is the event? Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, 4455 Wightman Street.

Buy the San Diego Explorer Pass

8. Participate in the San Diego Festival of Birds

Birds in the Sunset|©Suzie's Farm
Birds in the Sunset|©Suzie's Farm

Come join the San Diego Birds in the Sunset Festival! The San Diego Audubon Society invites you in February to go birding at Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the area's largest and most beautiful bird sanctuaries on 317 acres where some 120 species have been seen.

In a world dominated by social media and smart devices, birds remind us that there are real experiences waiting around every corner - all you need to do is look up! By attending this festival, you'll be supporting San Diego Audubon Society's education, conservation and sanctuary programs. Plus, in February the birds are migrating, so it's a great time to enjoy their company.

Where is the event? Marina Village Conference Center, 1936 Quivira Way.

9. Participate in the closing of the San Diego Black Film Festival

Meeting in the room|©achrntatrps
Meeting in the room|©achrntatrps

Be part of the closing of the San Diego Black Film Festival, an annual event that culminates the first week of February. Get ready to soak up the energy of California's performing arts while celebrating diversity and creativity in the film industry. The festival becomes the epicentre for the best works of African American filmmakers, offering you an exciting cinematic experience that portrays the local and international scene.

The San Diego Black Film Festival features everything from documentaries, dramas, comedies to independent films, this event immerses you in a wide range of genres, ensuring there is something for everyone. The festival highlights talented directors, screenwriters and actors telling stories from diverse perspectives, bringing a breath of fresh air to the big screen.

Whether you're a film lover or just looking for an entertaining way to pass the time, the San Diego Black Film Festival is your chance to discover new voices and perspectives in the film industry. Don't forget to mark your calendar for the first few days of February. Check their website to follow the schedule of films on offer during your travel season.

10. Celebrate the African American Festival at Aquarium of the Pacific

African American heritage festival|©Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam
African American heritage festival|©Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam

Celebrate African American History Month with the San Diego African American Festival. This special event honours the rich culture and contributions of the African American community. If you're in San Diego in February, this festival is a must-see, and the venue is the Aquarium of the Pacific.

The San Diego African American Festival offers an experience loaded with music, art, delicious food and fun activities for all ages. Enjoy live concerts in a variety of genres including jazz, blues, R&B and hip-hop. In addition, explore African American art exhibits and enjoy authentic soul cuisine.

This festival is also an opportunity to learn about the history and achievements of African American leaders and activists who have left a mark on society. You can participate in inspiring and educational talks and panel discussions. Admission to the festival is included with general admission to the Aquarium, which is part of the activities included in the San Diego Explorer Pass.

Buy the San Diego Explorer Pass

11. Get caught up in Super Bowl Fever

Super Bowl Seats|©gangsterofboats2003
Super Bowl Seats|©gangsterofboats2003

If there's one thing to do in San Diego at night in February, it's to get caught up in Super Bowl fever.

Soak up the football excitement, get together with friends and enjoy the festive atmosphere as you cheer on your favourite team at bars and special events throughout the city. Giant screens, delicious food and camaraderie make the Super Bowl an unforgettable experience.

Whether you're a passionate fan or just looking for a fun time, the Super Bowl in San Diego is the perfect excuse to share laughter and excitement with other sports fans. Plus, hopefully your chosen stadium is in the area.

12. Enjoy the San Diego International Jewish Film Festival

discussion|©NCJF Films
discussion|©NCJF Films

It's been over 30 years since this event came to town. San Diego's largest Jewish cultural event, the International Jewish Film Festival takes place in the first half of February.

This festival gives you the opportunity to see new stories of the Jewish community portrayed, explore different perspectives and enjoy films that you can watch both in person and virtually. In addition to the screenings, there are also panel discussions and special events where you can interact with filmmakers and experts. 4126 Executive Dr, La Jolla.