The Best 4th Of July Fireworks Shows In San Diego
4th of July in San Diego is here…can you feel it? That’s right, it’s the smell of barbecues firing up, the sound of kids splashing in the surf, and the scent of freedom in the air. It’s that time of year again when we gather together to celebrate America’s birthday, San Diego-style.
When it comes to the 4th of July, San Diego doesn’t mess around. In fact, San Diego’s 4th of July was recently named one of the five best 4th of July celebrations in the United States!
It wasn’t really a fair competition, because we’ve got secret weapons: a military community that’s as strong as it is patriotic, beaches, and perfect weather – other communities can’t match that combo!
Which means San Diego on the 4th is like a Michael Bay movie with better acting: beaches, bikinis, and big, beautiful fireworks – which are a must-watch!
So come along as we guide you through where to find the best 4th of July fireworks displays our city has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a newbie just figuring out how to pronounce “La Jolla,” we’ve got you covered.
Buckle up, and prepare for a 4th of July fireworks show in San Diego that’ll knock your flip-flops off!
The Early Bird 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
Mission Bay 3rd of July Fireworks
Join us at the bay for an unforgettable evening of awe-inspiring fireworks illuminating the night sky, set against the beautiful backdrop of San Diego’s Mission Bay. Avoid the crowds of the 4th and enjoy this spectacular fireworks display, happening on July 3 at 9PM.
For the best views of the fireworks and accompanying experiences, our partners around Mission Bay are offering special programming to make it an unforgettable summer evening for the whole family, including:
Fireworks Cruise
The Bahia and Catamaran Resort’s beloved William D Evans is offering a sightseeing cruise, departing from both resorts for views of the fireworks from the middle of the Bay. Priced at $35 for hotel guests and $45 for general admission, tickets are available for purchase online here.
Mission Bay Resorts
Enhance your summer fireworks experience with a delightful staycation at one of our breathtaking Mission Bay Resorts. Book a memorable stay on July 3rd and indulge in the beauty of the bay. Stay all weekend long for our festive red, white, and blue independence day program including pool parties, live music, dive in movies, bbq, and holiday kids activities. Don’t miss out on our exclusive seasonal offers – visit the deals section of our website for more information.
Public Viewing Areas
Experience the awe-inspiring fireworks show from the best vantage points along the picturesque Mission Bay shoreline. From Santa Clara Point to Fanuel Street Park and along Rivera Drive, the shoreline with a view of Sail Bay will offer the most ideal views of the show. If you have a boat, this is the perfect time to get out on the water and watch the show from the comfort of your own vessel. Whether you’re with family, friends, or enjoying the event solo, this section of the bay is perfect for coming together and celebrating this cherished tradition.
Over-the-Top 4th at The Manchester Grand Hyatt
A perfect jumping-off point to explore America’s Finest City in the sweet summertime, Manchester Grand Hyatt offers the best in destination exploration and accommodations for the 4th of July this year.
We recommend that you head to Coronado Island on the ferry to witness one of the most charming parades in San Diego, complete with decorated bicycles and floats along the waterfront.
After a festive day at the beach, head back to Manchester Grand Hyatt to catch 360-views of the firework displays around the city with two exciting events:
The Boardwalk Boom
Enjoy the 4th of July action at Sally’s Fish House & Bar’s Boardwalk Boom, their family-friendly 4th of July event, on San Diego’s Embarcadero boardwalk!
Choose from one of our premier patio tables to secure your spot for incredible views of the Big Bay Boom Fireworks show in San Diego Bay, and enjoy locally sourced seafood, craft cocktails and fine wines.
Details and tickets are available here.
Over the Top 4th of July
For an experience that is truly over the top, head to Top of the Hyatt from 6PM–10PM to celebrate 4th of July from 40 stories above San Diego Bay. Enjoy unparalleled views of the Big Bay Boom Fireworks Show plus unlimited beer, wine and premium liquor from the bar and cuisine from the themed dinner buffet.
Details and tickets available here.
Red, White & BOOM! at InterContinental San Diego
Escape the crowds this Fourth of July at InterContinental San Diego’s Red, White & BOOM! BBQ. From 5PM-9PM, you can enjoy San Diego’s largest fireworks show crowd-free and from the comfort of your private table on Intercontinental San Diego’s Bayview Terrace.
Watch three simultaneous fireworks displays by Big Bay Boom, while enjoying all-you-can-eat open fire barbecue including brisket, chicken a la brasa, smoked Andouille and bratwurst sausages, slider selection, salad bar, cheese and charcuterie, a wide selection of sides and desserts, craft beer and wine. Guests will also enjoy the rockin’ Americana style music of The Sea Monks live from 6PM-9PM, with the performance ending just in time for the Big Bay Boom.
Tickets are $125 per person (excluding parking), and include full access to the buffet along with an open bar. Tickets can be purchased online here.
Garibaldi
For the adult crowd looking for a little more elevated experience and the most exquisite fireworks view, the hotel will also be featuring two additional buffets hosted at its signature restaurants. On the third floor at Garibaldi, the rooftop Sardinian restaurant, will feature an assortment of charcuterie and antipasti along with Zuppa di Pomodori, Spaghetti al Ricci di Mare, Fregola All’Onda, and more plus a dessert display including Mascarpone Pistachio Cheesecake and Lemon Tarts.
Vistal
On the fourth floor at Vistal, the Baja-inspired restaurant, will feature a Raw Bar, Jidori Chicken Paillard, Kurobuta Pork Loin, and an assortment of signature sides and desserts including Churrors with Chocolate Espuma, Macarons, Crème Brulee, and more! Both buffets are available separately from the Red, White & BOOM! BBQ event. The buffets are priced at $125 for adults and $85 for kids ages 4-16. Reservations can be made by calling the restaurants directly.
The Biggest 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
The Big Bay Boom
The Big Bay Boom fireworks show is an iconic 4th of July fireworks show – considered one of the best in the country. displayed from Four barges on San Diego Bay at 9 PM.
Bring your lawn chairs, friends and boats to watch from these locations:
- Shelter Island
- Harbor Island
- North Embarcadero
- Marina District
- Coronado Ferry Landing
- Boating/On The Water
- The Deck of the Midway (requires tickets that sell out fast)
Get all of the details here, and be sure to plan ahead for crowds!
The Longest 4th of July Fireworks Show In San Diego
Sea World’s Fireworks
We get it…for some of you, one night of fireworks just isn’t enough!
SeaWorld doesn’t just celebrate with fireworks on the 4th…they have fireworks firing every night from June 30th to July 4th. They have all kinds of fun options to view the shows in style – get all of the details here.
The Beachiest 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
Imperial Beach 4th of July Fireworks
Honestly, you can watch the fireworks from most beaches in the San Diego area and have a great show.
But the Imperial Beach 4th of July fireworks show hosts approximately 90,000 attendees coming out for the free event from Imperial Beach and surrounding south bay communities – making it a particularly big and festive event.
The show kicks off at 9PM from the iconic pier. Best viewing is on the beach from Imperial Beach Blvd. to Palm Avenue, facing the end of Portwood Pier.
The Most Festive 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
The San Diego County Fair 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular
For you fireworks buffs, here are some fun statistics on the San Diego County Fair’s Fireworks Spectacular — The show includes more than 3,600 aerial display counts, with 500 shells in the Grand Finale alone!
These aren’t wimpy fireworks either — shells are up to 8″ and include titanium flash salutes, color changing aerial displays, distinctive and unique display shells, and the popular streaking comets and tiger tails!
And, it’s all taking place at the most spectacular setting for a county fair in America!
The Kid Friendliest 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
Red, White and BOOM! at Legoland California
Summer heats up at LEGOLAND® California Resort with a star-spangled 4th of July celebration: Red, White & BOOM!
Families can enjoy special limited-time treats, fun lawn activities, and DJ dance parties that will have everyone on their feet. End the night with an unforgettable fireworks display that explodes into 3D LEGO® bricks right before your eyes with special viewing glasses!
There are special extended park hours to celebrate and enjoy the fireworks spectacular, as well as 4th of July-themed entertainment throughout the resort – all included in the cost of regular Park admission!
The Artsiest 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
Escondido Independence Day Festival and Fireworks
Celebrate the 4th of July at the Center! Bring the whole family for a FREE night of fun and music featuring Urban Renewal Project and Navy Band Southwest’s 32nd Street Brass Band
VIP options are available for purchase and include:
- Reserved seating at tables near stage
- Air-conditioned indoor lounge area
- Indoor VIP-only restrooms
- Two drink tickets and access to VIP bar
- Food at the VIP buffet
In addition to the concert and fireworks, there is a host of other activities around the Center’s campus throughout the event. Children can enjoy face painters along with craft activities and games. Food and merchant vendors will set up in the park and food trucks will line up along Broadway Avenue. A limited number of VIP tickets are available for purchase from the CCAE’s website.
The Oldest 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego
Poway’s An Old Fashioned Fourth of July and Fireworks
Poway wants to take you back in time with their Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration!
Bring your family and friends to Old Poway Park and celebrate our country’s independence “turn-of-the-20th-century-style”. This event will feature patriotic entertainment, free children’s crafts, train displays, and old-fashioned games. Tasty treats and train rides will be available for a nominal fee.
See you there!
Happy 4th of July, San Diego! Enjoy the fireworks, and be safe out there!
