7 Unique Things To Do for a Birthday in San Diego

The list of restaurants and bars in San Diego is extensive enough to make every weekend a new adventure, but maybe this year you’re seeking a truly memorable birthday experience. Here is a shortlist of unique tipples, treks, and traipses to keep in mind when planning your next big day!

1. A San Diego County Winery Hop

There’s no denying we are a city of hopheads, but did you know that San Diego also makes wine? Good wine? From Domaine Artefact’s Rhone reds in Escondido to the bold blends and stunning views at Vineyard Grant James and Turtle Rock Ridge in Ramona, there are dozens of fantastic wineries to explore within an hour’s drive.

2. A Three-Hour Fishing Tour

Or longer if you’re looking for The Big One! Sportfishing trips depart daily from both San Diego and Oceanside. Or, if your birthday party has its sea legs but chasing after yellowtail and halibut isn’t quite your thing, you can lounge topside on one of several whale-watching cruises instead.

3. Cooking or Painting Class

A Groupon and Living Social favorite, one-time cooking courses or paint nights are a great way for a group of friends to get together and have something unique to show for it afterward!

painting
Photo Credits: Painting & Vino

4. Horseback Trail Ride

Whether you prefer a quiet beach stroll or a trail with a chaparral view, you can enjoy it on horseback in San Diego! Head down towards Imperial Beach for a serene saunter on the sand or out to Escondido for a walk through the canyons.

san-diego-beach-rides
Photo Credits: San Diego Beach Rides

5. Big Cat or Bear Feeding

Have you always wanted to get close to an apex predator, but common sense stops you in the knick of time? At Lions, Tigers & Bears sanctuary in Alpine, seasoned staff will escort you through their no-kill facility and even let you participate in a feeding. The close encounters cost a nominal fee, but hey, it’s your birthday!

lion-tigers-bears
Photo Credits: Lion, Tigers & Bears

6. Catch a Comedy Show

Who doesn’t love to laugh? Catch a national act at the Mad House Comedy Club downtown or at La Jolla’s Comedy Store.

For a more interactive approach, convince your friends to sign up for an improv class at Finest City Improv in University Heights. Nothing says “memorable birthday” like forcing your buddies to make fun of each other on stage!

comedy-show
Photo Credits: LaughStub

7. Balloon Breakfast or Brunch

For an intimate birthday splurge, book a hot-air balloon ride with a loved one or a small group of friends. Multiple venues offer hour-long flights from dawn until dusk (some even include champagne brunch!), giving you a brand-new view of America’s Finest City.

So there you have it—our top seven picks for a birthday to remember! Make your next one extra special and take advantage of what our beautiful, diverse city has to offer.

See you there, San Diego!

The Latest
outdoor lifestyle shopping center
The Forum Carlsbad holiday celebrations are about to turn this outdoor lifestyle shopping center into the coolest hangout in town! We’re talking strolling carolers, surprise...
Nason's Beer Hall
The Pendry San Diego holiday lineup is about to make this season unforgettable! The stylish downtown San Diego hotel is transforming into a winter wonderland...
Downtown Skate
Downtown Skate is cranking up the fun factor with the most epic outdoor roller rink experience ever to hit the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina!...
Seahorse Hotel at Birch Aquarium
The Seahorse Hotel at Birch Aquarium is the hottest new address under the sea! These innovative artificial habitats are turning ocean conservation into an epic...
Pop Pie Co Carlsbad
Pop Pie Co Carlsbad is leveling up North County’s dessert scene! The soon-to-be beloved pie shop in Carlsbad is rolling into the heart of the...
MCASD's December events
The Winter MKT is launching MCASD’s December events with a bang! The Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego is transforming into a one-day cultural wonderland...