The 5 Best Christmas Experiences & Tours in San Diego
San Diego might be best known for its beaches and sunny skies, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a city full of festive cheer and unique ways to celebrate. What makes San Diego especially appealing during Christmas is its blend of maritime traditions, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic waterfront views. Imagine celebrating on a boat with holiday decor, strolling through twinkling lights in Little Italy, or experiencing a December cruise past iconic landmarks. There’s no shortage of ways to make your holiday season memorable here.
With options that range from elegant dinner cruises to lively walking tours, San Diego offers experiences tailored to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re after a romantic evening on the water or a family-friendly walk through holiday-decorated streets, you’ll find something that fits your style. These tours are well-reviewed, offer good value, and provide authentic glimpses of San Diego’s holiday spirit. Let’s explore the top Christmas experiences you won’t want to miss.
1. San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise
At number one, the San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise offers a memorable way to celebrate the holiday. For about $166 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour cruise that departs from downtown San Diego, cruising past some of the city’s most iconic sights. The cruise features festive decor and a hearty buffet, making it a perfect setting for a holiday dinner with friends or family.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to see San Diego Bay illuminated by holiday lights, with stops that include the Coronado Bridge, USS Midway Museum, and the historic Star of India. The boat’s smooth ride and friendly staff contribute to a relaxed, joyful atmosphere. The one review available praises its flexibility, good food, and helpful staff, giving it a perfect 5-star rating. This cruise is ideal for those wanting a festive, scenic, and delicious Christmas experience. It’s a good choice if you value comfort, good food, and beautiful views.
Bottom Line: If you want a festive dinner on the water with classic San Diego sights, this dinner cruise provides a smooth, enjoyable, and well-reviewed experience that will leave you with holiday memories in the sea breeze.
2. San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
For around $141, the San Diego: Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise offers a flexible, festive way to celebrate on the water. This cruise runs for 2 to 3 hours, with starting times varying based on availability—so it’s worth checking ahead. During this cruise, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared holiday buffet served on a rooftop deck, which means you can feel the cool sea breeze while indulging in holiday treats.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a full bar service, live music, and scenic views of San Diego’s waterfront, including the USS Midway. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy relaxing with good food, drinks, and entertainment while cruising past San Diego’s famous landmarks. While the reviews are slightly more mixed (a 4/5 rating based on 7 reviews), guests generally love the atmosphere and food, though some mentioned that more entertainment could enhance the experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a more relaxed, festive brunch or dinner with scenic views and a lively atmosphere, this cruise delivers a tasty meal and holiday cheer.
3. Christmas Time in San Diego – Walking Tour
At number three, the Christmas Time in San Diego – Walking Tour takes you through the city’s most beautifully decorated holiday spots. This 2-hour tour is a walking adventure through Petco Park, transformed into a Holiday Wonderland with dazzling lights, leading up a Grand Stairway decorated with twinkling displays. You’ll then stroll through the Martin Luther King Promenade, decorated with seasonal decor, and end in Little Italy, where the streets glow with holiday charm.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on public holiday decorations and neighborhood magic rather than a ride or a meal. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see San Diego’s neighborhoods alive with Christmas spirit and enjoy a more intimate experience. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s a good option for those who prefer a short, guided walk that combines city culture with festive cheer.
Bottom Line: For those who want to enjoy San Diego’s holiday ambiance and enjoy a scenic, leisurely walk, this tour offers a personalized way to experience the city’s Christmas spirit.
4. San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
As Christmas Eve approaches, the San Diego: Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise provides a special way to celebrate. For $141 per person, this 2-3 hour cruise offers the chance to enjoy a festive buffet, with the option of brunch (including unlimited mimosas) or dinner, on a scenic waterway.
The cruise features live music, scenic views of San Diego Bay, and elegant decor that enhances the holiday vibe. Passengers rave about the experience, giving it a perfect rating, and praise the combination of good food and lovely scenery. This is the ideal choice for travelers seeking a relaxing, festive event on Christmas Eve that feels both special and intimate.
Bottom Line: If you want a warm, elegant, and lively way to celebrate Christmas Eve with good food, music, and beautiful bay views, this cruise is a top pick.
5. San Diego Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise
Rounding out the list, the San Diego Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise offers a holiday dinner experience very similar to the Christmas Day cruise. For about $166 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour cruise with festive decor and a delicious meal. The itinerary includes stops at the San Diego Bay Walk, Coronado Bridge, USS Midway Museum, and the Star of India, providing a scenic tour of the waterfront.
This cruise appeals to those who want to combine sightseeing with a special meal, making it a great way to celebrate Christmas with friends or family. While it has no reviews yet, its consistent itinerary and festive atmosphere make it a reliable choice for holiday dining on the water.
Bottom Line: For a traditional Christmas Eve dinner combined with scenic views and a relaxed cruise experience, this tour offers a balanced combination of sights and celebration.
How to Choose the Right Christmas Experience in San Diego
When selecting a holiday tour, consider your budget, the type of experience you want, and your preferred level of activity. If you love a festive dinner on the water, the San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise or the Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet Cruise are excellent options. For a more relaxed, scenic meal with entertainment, the Christmas Day Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise fits the bill.
If you prefer to explore the city’s neighborhoods decorated for the holidays, the Christmas Time in San Diego Walking Tour is perfect. Budget travelers might prioritize cruises with included meals and scenic views, while those seeking a more active experience may enjoy the walking tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially around Christmas and Christmas Eve, when tours tend to fill quickly. Check the availability and times in advance, and consider whether you want a daytime or evening event. Whichever you choose, these tours will add a touch of San Diego’s holiday charm to your season.
Final Thoughts
San Diego offers a wide array of Christmas experiences that blend scenic water views, lively neighborhoods, and festive decorations. The San Diego Christmas Day Dinner Buffet Cruise and the Christmas Eve Buffet Brunch or Dinner Cruise are standout options for those craving a holiday meal with scenic views, while the walking tour provides a more intimate, neighborhood-focused experience.
For families or couples looking for a memorable, scenic celebration, these tours provide a wonderful way to enjoy the holiday spirit. To ensure a spot and avoid missing out, book early, especially for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day cruises. Whether you prefer a laid-back stroll or a lively dinner on the water, San Diego’s holiday tours will help you make the most of your Christmas season.