The weather might not reflect it, but it’s Christmas time, which means finding the perfect location to see Santa and asking him for that special Christmas gift. Find your favorite light show, grab a Christmas tree, and make a wish list this year in San Diego, all while enjoying a visit with Santa.
Here are our favorite locations around San Diego to find Santa and tell him everything you might need for Christmas.
Santa’s Village at SkyPark
- Address: 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385
Santa’s Village at SkyPark is a must-see if you’re in the San Diego area. The village is filled with lights and Christmas cheer your family will love seeing. You’ll be able to have breakfast with Santa, tea with Mrs. Claus, and photo ops throughout your visit. Reservations are highly recommended for this experience. While there, keep time to ice skate and watch the light show.
San Diego Zoo
- Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
The San Diego Zoo should already be a bucket list destination when you’re in San Diego, but they add a little extra charm with their Jungle Bells during the holidays. They deck the halls with all the Christmas fixings, including photos with Dr. Harry Lion, Churchill Polar Bear, and Sydney Koala.
There is live music, acrobatic elves, and pictures with Santa. Santa is located in the Lose Forest, where his entire factory will be waiting to be explored.
Seaport Village
- Address: 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Grab a stunning photo with Santa at the waterfront in Seaport Village. Santa is waiting to pose with you in front of the Chris Harvey Gallery. While there, get a little shopping done since there are over 54 retail shops.
One day out of the year, usually toward the end of November, Seaport Village hosts an opportunity to meet laid-back, beachside Santa. Santa will wear board shorts and a Hawaiian shirt for their Surfin Santa celebration. Santa will be at the lifeguard tower, ready to take pictures with anyone who loves to be less traditional. Live music and entertainment begin at noon.
Santa’s Treehouse
- Address: 15263 Lawson Valley Rd, Jamul, CA 91935
Mr. and Mrs. Claus are hanging out in their treehouse, waiting to snap a photo. Kids can chat about their wish lists, tour the treehouse, and sit by the fire while visiting Santa. Make your reservations here to see the treehouse; all proceeds will help sponsored families in need.
Santa Paws Pet Night
- Address: 1404 Vacation Road, San Diego, CA 92109
Santa visits Paradise Point one day out of the year for you and your furry pal to snap a memorable photo with Mr. Claus himself. There’s something there for everyone to celebrate, even if you don’t have a pet. If you do bring along your furry friends, let them take part in some fun activities like creating an ornament.
Carlsbad
Santa at the Forum
- Address: 1923 Calle Barcelona, Carlsbad, CA 92009
Santa will be at the Forum Carlsbad every weekend in December. He’ll be waiting to take a family photo with you in the Garden Area between YETI and Allbird. Photos are complimentary and photographers are not on site so bring your camera.
