Working on trip planning for San Diego. Two possible timeframes - early to mid December or early to mid February. What will the weather be like? Two couples planning trip together and one wants to lay on the beach. Will it be warm enough at either or both of these times? Thanks.

You will find many fun and interesting things to do in San Diego during the winter months, but beach activities will probably not be among them. The water will be much to cold to swim in and the sun will not be hot enough to lay in. I think that the best you will be able to do is to take long, romantic walks along the shore.

I would expect better weather in December than in February. Generally we don't get rain until January or later, and occasionally December is beautiful (I went to UCSD, and finals week, which is usually the first week in December, was often great beach weather- definitely a problem!) Plan expecting colder temperatures, and probably not as beach-oriented, as Emily said. But, you might get lucky! (Of course that could happen later too!)

Lori...

I have to agree with Robin, December on average tends to be warmer then February, but you never know. If you are coming from a cooler climate I'm sure it will be fine. The evenings will be cold.

If you are looking for an interesting place to stay and like a younger crowd, you might want to look into the Crystal Pier Motel in Pacific Beach near Mission Bay. Little houses set on a pier. Very nice, but make reservations now they go fast.

I live in San Diego. It is impossible to tell you what the weather will be like in either December or February. Both of those months fall during our rainy season. However the chances of rain are still less than 50% but one has no way of telling when that will occur. It can also be sunny and warm or chilly.

I would choose December over February. Normally February receives more rain. However 80 degree weather can occur in either month. I have seen 90+ degree weather in January. We had some great beach weather in Feburary last year though that is no guarantee of what to expect. In other words, "you pay your money and take your chances".

The water will be much too cold to swim in unless you are a Polar bear.

I live in Mission Beach, lots of people spend time laying on the beach in December. You will love the Crystal Beach Pier cottages. Ask for a two bedroom that has been remodeled, great view, lots of restaurants around.