by Joan Collins

Created on: December 19, 2011   Last Updated: December 22, 2011

Escape the snow this winter and head to San Diego, California. This area of southern California is full of fun and activities that the entire family will enjoy. Book your hotel and begin a San Diego adventure this year.

Balboa Park is a must-see for San Diego visitors any time of the year, but December and January are among the best times. During the first weekend of December, the park has a special event, December Nights. Throughout the weekend, all eighteen museums are free. The International Houses put on their best displays, each vying for the attention of the visitors. The San Diego Zoo, located in Balboa Park features Jungle Bells from mid-December to early January. Lights and holiday-centered programs await the visitors. Go in the evening so you can oooh and awe over the lights.

The Wild Animal Park, a distant section of the San Diego Zoo, also offers a December light display. Sea World also joins the fun with its Holiday Festival, also in December.

Winter is an excellent time to go whale watching. Ships cruise the bay or watch from the shores of Point Loma. From December to March, there is an excellent opportunity for the whole family to watch the gray whales as they return to their breeding grounds.

Tide pools are located in several places along the San Diego shore. During low tide, a variety of sea life stays behind in the pools of water left in the low points on the shore. See the sea anemones, crabs, sea slugs and other creatures as they await the return of the water. Tread softly as you wander around the area. Some of the life you find will be smaller than your fingernails. 

Visit the largest balloon parade available anywhere in the country. The Big Bay Balloon Parade takes place on December 30. It is chock-full of floats, bands, and, of course, huge balloons. The parade is located in downtown San Diego, along San Diego Bay. Throughout the month of December, there are numerous holiday parades. Pick your weekend and it is fairly certain you will find a parade to match your dates. Check out parade dates here. 

If you find yourself missing the cold and the snow, how about ice-skating. The Hotel del Coronado features an ice-skating rink called Skating by the Sea. It is open from late November through early January. While you are there, the hotel is a wonderful place to visit too.

Don't forget the beaches. With 70 miles, there is room for everyone. Mission Beach also features an amusement area and plenty of eating and shopping establishments. Also along the beach, you will find Maritime museums, bay cruises and the opportunity to visit the USS Midway.

San Diego is the place to go if you want to avoid the cold of winter. With so many activities, your family will want to come back next year too.

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