New Year’s Eve in San Diego: Where Should I Go to Celebrate?

San Diego isn’t known as the finest for no reason. Beautiful beaches, a cultured cuisine scene, and ideal weather year-round make it a one-stop shop for the perfect vacation. And when New Year’s Eve rolls around, the City in Motion knows how to get the party started.

Theme parks, cruises, and parties light up for this unforgettable final night of the year. With so many options, what will you choose to do? We’re here to save the day with this New Year’s Eve guide so you’ll know just what to do.

New Year’s Eve Events in San Diego

Kids’ New Year’s Eve at LEGOLAND California

If you’re bringing the little ones this year, there’s no better place to celebrate New Year’s Eve in San Diego than LEGOLAND. In addition to all their fan-favorite rides and attractions, kids are treated to fireworks, a countdown, and other festive activities.

Best of all, they’ll still be able to make it to bed on time. The park will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You won't want to miss out!

SeaWorld Christmas Celebration

On New Year’s Eve, SeaWorld San Diego packs in all the fun and thrills it possibly can. Catch an adrenaline rush on one of the classic rides and learn about marine life while you’re at it.

A spectacular fireworks show begins at 8:50 p.m.,10 minutes before the park closes. Still can’t get enough of Christmas?

Jungle Bells at the San Diego Zoo

Animal lovers know where they’ll be this New Year’s Eve: the San Diego Zoo! Mingle with all your favorite furry friends as you celebrate the new year.

Special holiday attractions include wandering through Northern Frontier’s Holiday Forest and Aurora, a magical immersive light experience.

Spirit of San Diego Yacht Party

Wave hello to the new year on a yacht! The Spirit of San Diego Yacht Party features appetizers, party favors, champagne, and more -- all included with your ticket.

You’ll also get to party the night away with two rockin’ DJs and dance floors. Take in the spectacular San Diego skyline from the Pacific Ocean on the scenic sky deck! No area of the yacht is off-limits.

San Diego Harbor Cruise by Flagship

Before you hit up the Gaslamp Quarter or San Diego’s party scene for the night, spend your day on the San Diego Harbor Cruise by Flagship!

Take in the sights and landmarks of the Plymouth of the West for a nautical New Year’s Eve. Harbor tours are available at various times throughout the day and offer remarkable views of the city, beaches, and historical landmarks.

New Year’s Eve Parties in San Diego

New Year’s Eve Roaring 20s Speakeasy at the Hotel del Coronado

The Hotel del Coronado is arguably San Diego’s most renowned hotel. Ring in a shiny new year at their Roaring 20s Speakeasy New Year’s Eve party. Guests can expect entertaining performances, awe-inspiring decor, and incredible sights as the hotel transforms into a giant party for one night only!

New Year’s Eve Movie on the Beach at the Hotel del Coronado

Alternatively, attend the New Year’s Eve Movie on the Beach at the Hotel del Coronado! “Big,” starring Tom Hanks, begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Times Square Ball Drop at 9 p.m.

Hard Rock Hotel’s New Year’s Eve Party

End the year on a high note this New Year’s Eve at Hard Rock Hotel’s rooftop New Year’s Eve party! Celebrate with dancing and complimentary champagne.

NYE 2022: Ball on Broadway

One ticket to the NYE 2022: Ball on Broadway gets you into five party rooms for one of the biggest parties of the night! Arrive at the Parq Nightclub by 11:30 p.m. to get in. Wrestler Justin Credible will provide entertainment for the night! Tickets start at about $55.

Big Night San Diego New Year’s Eve Party

There’s no shortage of room to get the party started when you attend this party, spread across ten rooms and eight dance floors. This year, Big Night San Diego takes place at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. Drinks and party favors are included with your ticket!

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Gaslamp Quarter

Gaslamp Quarter is San Diego’s nightlife capital. Visitors will find everything from speakeasies to delectable taco shops to sports bars in this entertainment district. When you spend New Year’s Eve in San Diego, you have to stop by this lively neighborhood. There’s always something going on!

Attractions Open on New Year’s Eve in San Diego

As you eagerly anticipate your evening plans, there’s no shortage of fun things to do during the day in San Diego. Whether you’re a history buff, whale watcher, or ordinary sightseer, there’s a great way for you to spend your day!

The Best Eats on New Year’s Eve in San Diego

It’s impossible to fully experience the culture of America’s Finest City without tasting it. Whether you like spicy Mexican food or ultra-fresh California-style pizza, there’s no shortage of flavor ready for you to devour.

Here’s where to go if you’re craving…

Authentic Mexican food

Mexican food is an essential taste of San Diego, and El Comal knows what they’re doing when it comes to the spicy, vibrant fare.

Terrific tacos

If the Mexican food you’re craving is specifically tacos, then you’ve come to the right city. The Fish Shop boasts award-winning tacos.

Fresh seafood

You can’t get fresher than the sea-to-table menu at Serēa.

California-style pizza

Blind Lady Ale House was a pioneer in this crispy thin, fresh style of pizza.

Thai food

It’s no secret San Diego does Southeast Asian farewell, and Lanna Thai Cuisine is a great choice to get in on the deliciousness.

How Will You Celebrate New Year’s Eve in San Diego?

Once you sort through the myriad of possible New Year’s Eve plans in San Diego, we know one thing is for sure: the city is an excellent destination of choice to ring in the new year. Set alongside the ocean and packed with fun things to do, it’s a West Coast New Year’s Eve dream.

If you’re looking to do it all on a budget, Tripster has you covered! Find the best rates on attraction tickets and hotel stays when you book with us. The new year just got a lot brighter (and cheaper)!

New Year's Eve in San Diego: Things to Do and Where to Celebrate

New Year’s Eve Events in San Diego