San Diego shines during Christmas with several standout experiences worth your time and money. The harbor’s evening dinner cruises offer the best value, combining excellent food with spectacular waterfront views and holiday entertainment.
Walking tours through neighborhoods like Little Italy and Gaslamp Quarter showcase authentic local celebrations and impressive light displays – perfect for photographers and families.
For something special, the Christmas Day brunch cruises are excellent, though book early as they sell quickly. The combination of well-prepared food, attentive service, and panoramic harbor views makes these tours particularly memorable.
Check out our selected Christmas experiences in San Diego:
Good To Know
Experience the festive ambiance and scenic harbor views on a 2.5-hour San Diego Christmas Day dinner cruise, featuring a holiday-themed buffet and live entertainment.
Explore the charming neighborhood of Little Italy and Petco Park’s 40-foot Christmas tree on a guided walking tour of San Diego’s festive highlights.
Enjoy a Christmas Day or Christmas Eve buffet brunch or dinner cruise along the San Diego Bay, with unlimited beverages, holiday-themed entertainment, and stunning city views.
Immerse in the Christmas spirit with a wheelchair-accessible, non-refundable San Diego Christmas Day or Christmas Eve buffet brunch or dinner cruise.
Capture boarding photos with Santa and soak up the festive decor and atmosphere on a San Diego Christmas Day dinner cruise along the scenic harbor.
San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise
Frequently, the San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise offers a delightful 2.5-hour excursion along the scenic San Diego harbor. The experience includes a winter holiday dinner buffet, live DJ entertainment, and festive holiday decor. You’ll enjoy boarding photos with Santa, as well as unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea, and water.
While cocktails, wine, and beer are available for purchase, the gratuities are included. The cruise departs from and returns to 1800 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, where pay-to-park options are available. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. With a maximum of 200 travelers, the cruise has received a 5.0 rating from one review, praising the good ride, good dinner buffet, friendly staff, and smooth ride.
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Christmas Time in San Diego – Walking Tour
If you’re looking to learn about the Christmas spirit during your San Diego visit, the Christmas Time in San Diego – Walking Tour is a must-do experience. Offered by Opatrip.com USA, this guided tour takes you through the festive highlights of the city.
You’ll start at Petco Park, where you’ll witness the colorful holiday displays and a 40-foot Christmas tree adorned with 16,000 lights and 250+ ornaments. Then, you’ll venture to the charming neighborhood of Little Italy, soaking up the Christmas environment, decorations, food, and drinks.
The tour lasts for the duration of the guided experience, and it’s accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly. Booking is simple, with confirmation received upon booking and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour. Prices vary based on group size, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is available, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to celebrate the Christmas season in San Diego.
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Christmas Time in San Diego – Walking Tour
Enjoy the Christmas spirit on the Christmas Time in San Diego – Walking Tour. This 2-hour experience lets you explore the city’s festive holiday spots, from the dazzling lights at Petco Park’s Holiday Wonderland to the twinkling steps of the Grand Stairway.
Marvel at the festive decor and melodies along the Martin Luther King Promenade and in Little Italy‘s vibrant streets. With up to 4 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized tour led by a professional local guide.
The tour includes the Petco Park Holiday Wonderland entrance fee of £20. Capture the enchanting light displays, festive street melodies, and heartwarming holiday decor throughout your journey. Book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Enjoy San Diego’s Christmas charm and create unforgettable holiday memories on this walking tour.
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San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Spend your Christmas Day savoring a delightful buffet brunch or dinner cruise along the San Diego Bay. This 2-3 hour cruise offers a holiday-themed experience with a freshly prepared buffet, full bar service, and unparalleled views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Relax on the rooftop deck and feel the refreshing San Diego breeze as you cruise past the legendary USS Midway. The inclusive package features unlimited coffee, tea, water, and mimosas for brunch, along with boarding photos with Santa and festive entertainment.
Dress in upscale casual to business casual attire, and make reservations for your entire party to guarantee seating together. Wheelchair users can access the boarding deck, though stairs are required for the outer decks. Smoking is permitted only on the outer decks. This non-refundable activity promises a memorable Christmas celebration on the water.
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San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
On Christmas Eve, you can enjoy a delightful buffet brunch or dinner cruise along the scenic San Diego Bay. The 2-3 hour journey includes a 2-2.5 hour bay cruise, a freshly prepared buffet, and endless holiday entertainment.
For brunch, indulge in breakfast pastries, smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, and French toast, along with salads, pastas, and carved meats. The dinner cruise offers a menu of salads, baked mac and cheese, salmon, carved turkey, and desserts. Both cruises provide unlimited mimosas, coffee, tea, and water.
The climate-controlled interior decks ensure a comfortable experience, and holiday carolers welcome you aboard. With wheelchair accessibility and a guaranteed table for your group, this Christmas Eve cruise is a convenient and festive way to celebrate the season. The only downside is the non-refundable cancellation policy, so be sure of your plans before booking.
Read our full review: San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Holiday Light Displays in San Diego?
You’ll find stunning holiday light displays at the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and Encinitas Ranch. From twinkling trees to larger-than-life animal sculptures, these festive attractions are sure to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Where Can I Find the Most Festive Holiday Markets in the City?
Head to Little Italy San Diego for their annual Christmas Market, brimming with local goods, food, and live music to get you in the holiday spirit. You’ll find it’s one of the most festive spots in the city.
Are There Any Special Events or Performances Happening on Christmas Eve?
On Christmas Eve, you can catch festive performances at the San Diego Symphony’s holiday concert or enjoy a scenic harbor cruise with dinner and cocktails for a special evening out.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Christmas Day Dinner Cruise?
You can’t bring your pet on the Christmas Day dinner cruise. The cruise line has a strict no-pets policy to ensure the comfort and safety of all guests. However, you can enjoy the festivities without your furry friend.
Is There Any Transportation Available to the Christmas Brunch or Dinner Cruise?
Most Christmas cruises offer shuttle services or provide recommendations for local transportation options. You can inquire about these details when booking your cruise tickets to ensure a seamless arrival and departure.
The Sum Up
Enjoy a festive cruise, take a walking tour, or indulge in a Christmas Day buffet – San Diego offers a range of memorable experiences to make your holiday season special. Whether you opt for a cruise, tour, or dining experience, you’ll create cherished memories in this picturesque coastal city.