Things to do on President’s Day in San Diego Today, Monday, February 16, 2026, San Diego offers a variety of activities for Presidents’ Day, ranging from maritime history and museum deals to sports and waterfront tours.
Museums & Culture
February is San Diego Museum Month, providing 50% off admission at over 70 local museums, including the USS Midway Museum and the Maritime Museum of San Diego. To access these deals, you must obtain a Museum Month Pass, available for digital download or as a printed version from over 80 public libraries.
Highlights of San Diego’s Museums
San Diego is rich in cultural experiences, with numerous museums to explore:
- Balboa Park: Houses many museums, from natural history to aerospace.
- USS Midway Museum: Offers a glimpse into naval aviation history.
- San Diego Museum of Art: Showcases a diverse collection of art.
Family-Friendly Museum Options
- Fleet Science Center: Features interactive exhibits for kids.
- San Diego Air & Space Museum: Marvel at historic aircraft and space artifacts.
- Birch Aquarium at Scripps: Offers a fascinating look at marine life.
Outdoor & Waterfront Activities
- Whale Watching: February is peak season for gray whales migrating back to Alaska. Major providers like Flagship San Diego offer daily departures.
- Harbor Tours: Take a narrated cruise of the San Diego Bay to see the naval fleet, Coronado Bridge, and the downtown skyline.
- GPS Guided Scooters: Explore Balboa Park and Downtown via scooter tours.
- Hop-on Hop-off Trolley: Visit over 100 points of interest, including the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town.
- Amphibious SEAL Tour: A 90-minute narrated tour departing from Seaport Village.
Events & Entertainment for February 16
- Youth Day at UC San Diego: The No. 10 UC San Diego men’s volleyball team hosts UC Merced today at 2:00 p.m. at LionTree Arena.
- Booze ‘n’ Brains: Interactive drinking game and puzzle-solving at Panama 66 starting at 11:00 a.m.
- Moonlit Waterlilies Workshop: A paint-and-sip session at Pinot’s Palette in Liberty Station at 4:30 p.m.
- Monday Night Trivia: Visit SD TapRoom at 7:00 p.m. for competitive trivia.
Important Closure Note: All City of San Diego Park and Recreation centers, pools, and district offices are closed today in observance of the holiday.
Planning Your Presidents’ Day Weekend in San Diego
Weather and Climate in February
February in San Diego boasts pleasant weather. Expect comfortable temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.
- Pack layers for cooler evenings.
- Be prepared for a light shower, though February generally offers plenty of sunshine.
Top Things to Do This February
- Coronado Beach: Enjoy scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Cabrillo National Monument: Get a stunning overlook of the city and the Pacific Ocean.
- San Diego Zoo & Safari Park: Arrive early to avoid crowds.
- LEGOLAND California: Located in nearby Carlsbad; check holiday schedules.
- La Jolla Cove: Kayak or snorkel with sea lions.
February Cruises from San Diego
Consider a February 2026 cruise from San Diego for a unique getaway.
- Mexican Riviera: Visit Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta.
- Baja California coastline: Explore scenic beauty.
- Short trips: A 3-4 day cruise to Ensenada.
Food, Shopping & Adventure
- Brunch Hotspots: Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and North Park.
- Shopping: Explore Seaport Village or Las Americas Premium Outlets for Presidents’ Day sales.
- Day Trips: Visit Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve or the historic mountain town of Julian for apple pie.
Planning Tips
- Reservations: Book brunch, tours, and museums in advance.
- Parking & Transit: Use public transit or rideshare for busy areas like Balboa Park.
- Tickets: Verify holiday hours and special pricing before you go.
Explore Our Website For Best San Diego Experiences We Value Your Feedback!