11 Fun-Filled Activities For Easter In San Diego

As Easter approaches, families in San Diego are gearing up for a fun-filled weekend chock-full of activities. With the sun shining and the flowers blooming, there's no shortage of things to do in America's Finest City. From joyful Easter egg hunts and springtime parades to outdoor picnics and indulging in delectable treats, we've come up with a list of 11 exciting activities that will make your Easter long weekend special. So, grab your basket and bunny ears, and join us as we explore the best ways to celebrate Easter in San Diego.

Easter egg hunts

Easter in San Diego brings a lot of joy and enthusiasm among the local people and visitors. One of the most eagerly anticipated events during the Easter weekend is the Easter egg hunt, which attracts a lot of children and families. Here are some of the best Easter egg hunts happening in San Diego this year.

First up is the Easter egg hunt at Oceanside Pier. This is a popular event which is organized by the city of Oceanside. On the day of the event, children between the ages of 1 to 12 are invited to the Oceanside Pier where they can hunt for Easter eggs filled with goodies. There are different hunting areas for different age groups so as to ensure that every child has a fair chance of collecting Easter eggs.

Next is the Annual Rady Children's Hospital Easter egg hunt which is held at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. This event is a charitable one and helps raise money for the children's hospital. The Easter egg hunt is free, and children can participate in games, meet the Easter Bunny, and enjoy other fun activities. There will also be food and refreshments for all to enjoy.

Another Easter egg hunt to look out for is the one at Birch Aquarium. This is an underwater egg hunt experience where visitors can watch the sea-turtles search for hidden Easter eggs. Apart from this, there are various arts and crafts activities, live music, and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. This is a unique experience that provides a refreshing change from the traditional Easter egg hunt.

Lastly, just one hour outside of San Diego in Temecula, you can enjoy the Easter egg hunt at Peltzer Farms. The Easter Bunny will be stopping by to make an appearance, and visitors are invited to collect eggs in designated egg fields. There will also be fun games and activities for the kids to enjoy after the hunt is over.

In conclusion, Easter egg hunts are an essential part of the Easter festivities, and San Diego offers a lot of options to choose from. Whether it be an underwater egg hunt, a charity hunt, or a traditional hunt, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your baskets and get ready to hunt for those Easter eggs.

Brunches

Easter is the perfect time to gather with friends and family, and one of the best ways to celebrate this joyous occasion is by indulging in a delicious brunch. San Diego is known for its diverse culinary scene, and the city is decorated with the best brunch spots that cater to everyone's taste buds.

Here are some of the top brunch spots to visit during Easter in San Diego:

• Cafe 21 - Cafe 21 is a must-try for all brunch lovers. The restaurant offers a unique blend of Mediterranean and fusion cuisine with a farm-to-table concept. The menu boasts of dishes like the Crab Cake Benedict and the Duck Confit Hash, and the outdoor seating area sets the perfect ambiance for a relaxed brunch with family and friends.
• The Prado at Balboa Park - The Prado is located at the heart of Balboa Park and offers a brunch buffet with a delicious spread of starters, salads, entrees, and desserts. The beautiful surroundings and the historic architecture of Balboa Park make The Prado an excellent option for a Sunday brunch.
• Coasterra - With a panoramic view of the San Diego skyline, Coasterra is one of the most picturesque brunch spots in the city. The restaurant specializes in Mexican cuisine, and the brunch menu has a lot of traditional Mexico delicacies like the Chilaquiles, Huevos Rancheros, and Tostada de Ceviche. Coasterra also has a great selection of cocktails to pair with your meal.
• Waterbar - If you're looking for a beachfront brunch spot, head over to Waterbar. Located in Pacific Beach, Waterbar offers a stunning ocean view and a vast brunch menu with dishes like the Lobster Benedict and Shrimp and Grits. Waterbar is also known for its beach-themed decor and is a popular spot for Easter brunch.
• The Smoking Gun - The Smoking Gun has gained popularity for its bottomless mimosas and bloody marys, which is perfect for a boozy Easter brunch. The menu has a lot of brunch favorites like the Avocado Toast and the Eggs Benedict, and the outdoor patio adds to the overall vibe of the restaurant.

San Diego is a vibrant city that has something for everyone, especially during Easter brunch. Whether it's a beachfront brunch or a farmhouse-inspired meal, San Diego has it all. Take advantage of the beautiful weather and indulge in delicious food with your loved ones during Easter in San Diego.

Petting zoos

Characteristic	Description
Name	San Diego Animal Sanctuary and Farm by the Children's Nature Retreat Foundation
Type	Zoo in San Diego County, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.9 / 232
Address	5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine, CA 91901
Phone	(619) 320-4942
Hours	Monday - 10 AM–5 PM Tuesday - 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday - 10 AM–5 PM Thursday - 10 AM–5 PM Friday - 10 AM–5 PM Saturday - 10 AM–5 PM Sunday - 10 AM–5 PM
Profiles

San Diego is a fantastic city to celebrate Easter with your family and loved ones. One of the exciting activities that you can enjoy during this time of the year is visiting petting zoos. Petting zoos are always a hit with kids and adults alike, and San Diego offers several great options for animal enthusiasts.

One of the most popular petting zoos in San Diego is the San Diego Zoo. While the zoo is full of attractions, the petting zoo section is always a favorite with children. It's a great place to get close to farm animals like goats, sheep, and cows, and sometimes there are even baby animals to play with. You can also enjoy a petting session with a variety of other creatures like kangaroos and flamingos.

Another exciting petting zoo option is the Oasis Camel Dairy. Here, you can get up close and personal with camels, and even take a ride on them. Additionally, you can interact with other animals such as goats, sheep, and kangaroos.

If you want to explore a more traditional farm setting, then head over to the St. Madeleine Sophie's Center Farm. This petting zoo is situated on a scenic farm and offers visitors an opportunity to pet goats, rabbits, pigs, and horses. You can also purchase fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables grown on the farm.

The Living Coast Discovery Center is also worth checking out. While it's not technically a petting zoo, it's a great place to see a wide variety of marine life and birds up close. Here, you can take a guided tour, see sea turtles up close, and touch a starfish.

In conclusion, San Diego offers plenty of options for visitors looking to enjoy petting zoos during the Easter season. From the exotic animals at the San Diego Zoo to the traditional farm setting of St. Madeleine Sophie's Center Farm, there's truly something for everyone. So grab your family, put on your sunscreen, and head over to one of these fantastic petting zoos to create unforgettable memories this Easter.

Spring flower shows

Spring is upon us, and with it comes the beauty of blooming flowers. San Diego is a city that celebrates the season and welcomes the new beginnings that come along with it. Easter is a time of rebirth and renewal, and what better way to celebrate than by visiting one of the many spring flower shows in the area?

The San Diego Botanic Garden hosts their annual Spring Garden Festival & Tomatomania on Easter weekend. This year, the festival will be held on April 3rd and 4th, and will include over 300 booths of garden-related vendors, musicians, and food trucks. Visitors can also participate in the annual plant sale or attend one of the workshops or talks by experts in the field.

If you're looking for something a little more extravagant, the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch might be just what you need. The Flower Fields are a 50-acre floral extravaganza that come to life every spring. Visitors can stroll through the rows of vibrant flowers, take a wagon ride, and even petting zoo for children. This year, the Flower Fields will be open through May 9th.

The Del Mar Fairgrounds also hosts a spring flower show each year. The San Diego County Fair presents the Garden Show, featuring beautiful landscapes, patio and garden displays, and a plant sale. This show runs from April 23rd to May 2nd, and is a great way to experience the beauty of the season.

No Easter celebration would be complete without a visit to the Bunny Patch. At the Butterfly Jungle in the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, visitors can experience over 10,000 butterflies while listening to live music and meeting the Easter Bunny. This year's dates are March 20th to April 11th.

Finally, the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers something different than the typical flower show. Here, visitors can experience the beauty of the desert wildflowers on guided hikes or on their own. The park's wildflower hotline updates the public on current blooming conditions, so you won't miss any blooms.

In conclusion, San Diego offers a plethora of opportunities to experience the beauty of spring and celebrate Easter. From botanical gardens to desert wildflowers, visitors can enjoy the season in all its glory.

Easter-themed train rides

San Diego On Easter – Easter Themed Train Rides

San Diego, California is a popular destination for many people during Easter season. There are numerous Easter-themed events and activities that take place in the city throughout the month of April, one of which includes Easter-themed train rides.

There are many different train rides that are available in San Diego, each offering a unique experience that is perfect for families and groups of friends. Many of these train rides incorporate Easter themes to provide a fun and exciting experience for everyone.

One of the most popular Easter-themed train rides is the Bunny Train. This train ride takes place at the historic Pacific Southwest Railway Museum in Campo, California. The Bunny Train provides guests with a 45-minute train ride through the picturesque countryside, while aboard a vintage passenger coach. During this ride, children will have the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny, receive a special Easter-themed gift, and participate in an Easter Egg hunt.

Another popular Easter-themed train ride in San Diego is The Blossom Valley Railroad’s Easter Extravaganza. This train ride departs from the Poway-Midland Railroad and travels through the scenic grounds of Old Poway Park. Special activities onboard the train include story time, singing, and the opportunity to meet the Easter Bunny. Once the train reaches its destination, children have the chance to participate in an Easter egg hunt and other Easter activities.

For those looking for a more elegant and festive Easter train ride, the Easter Bunny Tea Train is the perfect option. The train departs from the Campo Depot and travels through the beautiful Campo Valley. During this ride, guests will serve tea, sandwiches, and a variety of Easter treats. Entertainment is provided by the Easter Bunny and other Easter characters, who perform magic shows and sing songs.

There is also the Easter Egg Express, which departs from the Orange Empire Railway Museum in Perris, California. This train ride provides guests with an hour-long scenic tour of the local area. Special activities during the ride include a visit from the Easter Bunny and an Easter Egg hunt.

In conclusion, San Diego offers many Easter-themed train rides that provide fun and entertainment for everyone. These train rides are perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking for a unique experience during the Easter holiday. With such a wide range of train rides available, you're sure to find one that’s perfect for you.

Family-friendly outdoor activities

San Diego is a wonderful place to enjoy Easter with your family. With its sunny weather and picturesque natural views, there are plenty of outdoor activities that everyone can enjoy. Here are some fun family-friendly outdoor activities that you can do in San Diego on Easter.

Easter Egg Hunt

Easter egg hunts have become a timeless Easter tradition, and there's no better way to enjoy it than in a beautiful park with your family. Fortunately, San Diego has plenty of parks with natural sceneries that make for amazing egg hunt backdrops. Some parks even have interactive events and themed activities throughout the day.

One of the best places for an Easter egg hunt in San Diego is Balboa Park. The park hosts an annual spring egg hunt event, which includes live music, craft booths, and egg-sighting. Kids can get excited about scavenging for the coveted special golden egg.

Spring Bloom Walk

Spring is the season of new life and blooming flowers. Taking a walk on a nature trail or hiking in San Diego's natural parks is the perfect way to celebrate Easter with your family. One of the best places for a spring bloom walk in San Diego is the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch. The fields feature vibrant displays of flowers, including more than 70 varieties of ranunculus.

Visit the San Diego Zoo

The San Diego Zoo is a fun activity for families throughout the year. On Easter, the zoo offers extra activities, including an Easter egg hunt, animal encounters, and face painting. With over 3,700 animals and 700,000 exotic plants, the San Diego Zoo is sure to be an unforgettable adventure for your family.

Take a Beach Day

San Diego is well-known for its gorgeous beaches. Easter is the perfect excuse to spend a day in the sun with your family at a nearby beach. Del Mar, Coronado Beach, and La Jolla Cove are top-notch options for families, with safe and calm waters.

Go Sailing

Sailing is an excellent option for those looking for a more adventurous Easter activity. The San Diego Bay offers a variety of sailing tours for families. Choose from private sailing tours, sightseeing tours, or whale watching tours. The scenery of the sparkling waters and the overlying skies is a breathtaking experience.

In conclusion, San Diego is abundant in family fun activities that could be enjoyed during Easter. Whether you are interested in partaking in an egg hunt, basking in the blooming of flowers, indulging in an animal encounter, spending the day at the beach, or cruising through the San Diego Bay, San Diego has it all! Moreover, it's the perfect way to spend quality time with your family and enjoy the festive season.

Springtime concerts and festivals

As Easter approaches, San Diego is bustling with a variety of concerts and festivals to celebrate the arrival of spring. From music to food, here are the top must-attend events in San Diego during Easter.

One of the most anticipated events is the San Diego Jazz Fest, which brings together musicians from all over the country. Fans of jazz music can spend their Easter weekend surrounded by soulful melodies and lively tunes. This year's festival will be held at the Town and Country Resort and Convention Center, with performances from renowned artists such as Duke Heitger and Clint Baker.

Another event that's popular among locals and visitors alike is the Spring Busker Festival, held at Seaport Village. The festival features street performers from around the world, showcasing their acrobatic, musical, and comedic talents. Attendees can also indulge in delicious food and drinks from local vendors while enjoying the lively atmosphere.

For those looking for a family-friendly event, the Easter Egg Hunt at Belmont Park is a great option. The park transforms into an Easter haven with activities ranging from face painting and egg decorating to an egg hunt for children of all ages. And of course, the Easter Bunny himself will be making an appearance for photo opportunities.

If you're looking for a more cultural experience, the Persian New Year Festival is a great way to celebrate the new season. Also known as Nowruz, the festival features Persian music, dancing, and traditional food. The event is held at the Laleh Park in Poway and attracts a diverse crowd of people interested in experiencing different cultures.

Finally, for those who enjoy a good brew, the Spring Fling Beer Festival is the perfect place to spend your Easter weekend. The festival features over 50 breweries from San Diego and beyond, offering samples of their delicious craft beer. Live music and food trucks add to the festive atmosphere, making it a great event for beer enthusiasts.

In conclusion, San Diego offers a variety of springtime concerts and festivals that cater to every interest. Whether you're a music lover, a foodie, or a beer connoisseur, there's something for everyone to enjoy during Easter in San Diego.

Easter bunny photo ops

Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to capture the memory of the holiday than by getting a picture with the Easter Bunny? If you're in town or planning to visit in San Diego this Easter, there are plenty of places to go that offer Easter Bunny photo ops. Here's a rundown of some of the locations around San Diego where you can snap a photo with the Easter Bunny.

• The Westfield Shopping Centers: During the Easter season, the Westfield Shopping Centers offer photo sessions with the Easter Bunny in different locations. You can visit Westfield Mission Valley, Westfield Plaza Bonita, or Westfield UTC to get your cute Easter photos taken.
• Coronado Ferry Landing: This scenic spot offers a beautiful view and a chance to snap a photo with the Easter Bunny. On April 10, from 12 pm to 4 pm, the Coronado Ferry Landing will play host to the Easter Bunny. There will also be face painting and balloon art for the kids in attendance.
• Seaport Village: On April 3, from 12 pm to 4 pm, the Easter Bunny will be available for pictures at Seaport Village. There will also be a scavenger hunt and Easter basket decorating for the kids to enjoy.
• Carlsbad Premium Outlets: The Easter Bunny will be available for photo ops at the Carlsbad Premium Outlets on April 3 and April 10, from 12 pm to 4 pm. You can also take part in face painting and balloon twisting while you're there.
• Westgate Hotel: The Westgate Hotel in downtown San Diego will host an Easter Sunday Champagne Brunch on April 4, complete with an Easter Bunny appearance and photo opportunities. The brunch will also feature a kids' station with coloring activities and movies.

These are just a few of the places in San Diego where you can take Easter Bunny photos. Keep an eye on your local event calendars for other Easter events and photo ops in your area. Happy Easter!

Paddleboarding or kayaking

San Diego on Easter is a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. One exciting activity that is perfect for this occasion is paddleboarding or kayaking. There are several amazing spots in San Diego to try these water sports, and they are great for people of all ages and skill levels.

One of the most popular places to paddleboard or kayak in San Diego is La Jolla Cove. This beautiful beach is known for its calm waters and stunning scenery, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing day out on the water. You can rent a paddleboard or kayak from one of the many local rental shops and take off on your own or join a guided tour to explore the cove and its amazing marine life.

Another great place to paddleboard or kayak in San Diego is Mission Bay. This is the largest man-made aquatic park in the country and offers a diverse range of water sports activities. You can paddleboard or kayak around the bay and enjoy the peaceful surroundings or try your hand at other activities like wakeboarding, water skiing, or jet skiing. There are also several great restaurants in the area, so you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the beautiful views of the bay.

If you are looking for a more challenging experience, you may want to consider paddleboarding or kayaking at Torrey Pines State Beach. This beach is known for its powerful waves and strong currents, making it a popular spot for experienced water sports enthusiasts. However, even beginners can enjoy the beach by staying closer to the shore and riding the smaller waves.

Whether you are a seasoned paddler or just love being out on the water, there is no better place to try paddleboarding or kayaking than San Diego. With its warm weather and stunning scenery, San Diego is the perfect destination for a fun-filled Easter weekend. So why not get out on the water this Easter and explore the beauty of San Diego from a different perspective?

Beachcombing and picnicking

Easter is a wonderful time of year to visit San Diego, with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in the beautiful springtime weather. One of the best ways to celebrate the holiday is by spending a day beachcombing and picnicking with your loved ones.

San Diego is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, including La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach. Each of these beaches offers a unique mix of sand, surf, and stunning views, making them perfect spots to enjoy a day out with your family or friends.

When beachcombing, it's important to bring along a sturdy pair of shoes, a backpack, and a sense of adventure. Walk along the beach and explore the tide pools, looking for shells, sea glass, and other treasures that have washed ashore. Be sure to bring a camera so you can capture the beauty of the surrounding scenery.

After a morning of beachcombing, set up your picnic on the sand and enjoy a tasty Easter meal with your loved ones. San Diego's temperate climate makes it the perfect spot for a picnic, so don't forget to pack a blanket, some snacks, and your favorite drinks. You can also bring along some outdoor games to play, such as frisbee or volleyball, to add to the fun.

One of the most popular places in San Diego for a beach picnic is La Jolla Cove, which offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding cliffs. Here, you can spread out a blanket and indulge in a delicious meal while listening to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore.

Another popular spot is Coronado Beach, which boasts a famous hotel and a wide, expansive beach. This area is perfect for a family-friendly Easter celebration, with plenty of space to play and relax under the sun.

In conclusion, spending Easter in San Diego is the perfect opportunity to get out and enjoy the gorgeous weather while exploring some of the most scenic beaches in the country. Make the most of your day by beachcombing for unique treasures and indulging in a delicious picnic with your loved ones. From La Jolla Cove to Coronado Beach, San Diego offers endless possibilities for a memorable holiday experience.

Nature walks and hikes

San Diego on Easter is a beautiful time of year to get outside and explore nature. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or embark on a more intense hike, San Diego has a variety of options for you.

One of the best places to start is Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. With over 2,000 acres of protected land, you can easily spend an entire day exploring this stunning area. There are numerous trails to choose from, ranging from easy, picturesque walks to challenging hikes that take you up steep inclines and along rocky terrain. No matter which path you choose, you'll be rewarded with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.

If you're looking for something a little less strenuous, check out Balboa Park. This 1,200-acre park is home to over a dozen museums, beautiful gardens, and even a zoo. But it's also a great place to take a walk and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park has several trails that are easy to navigate, and you can even rent a bike or take a Segway tour if you want to cover more ground.

Another option is Mission Trails Regional Park. This 5,800-acre park has over 60 miles of hiking trails, so you can choose the perfect route for your skill level and interests. The park is home to several ecosystems, including grasslands, oak woodlands, and riparian areas, so you're sure to see a variety of wildlife and plant life.

Finally, if you're looking for something truly unique, consider a visit to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. While it's a bit of a drive from San Diego proper, it's well worth the trip. The park is home to over 500 miles of dirt roads and hiking trails, as well as unique geological formations and stunning wildflower displays. Spring is the best time to visit, as the desert comes alive with wildflowers, cacti, and other plant life.

No matter which trail or park you choose, be sure to take plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate footwear. San Diego offers a variety of nature walks and hikes, so take advantage of this beautiful time of year to get outside and explore.

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