Tis’ the season for all the cute, festive holiday content right?! Some of the typical Instagram-worthy photo spots in San Diego are closed this year due to covid, but don’t worry there are still plenty of places you can go that are outdoors and super safe! I’ve done the research and rounded up all the best spots that are ready for you to go visit. Keep on reading for all the Instagram-Worthy Holiday Spots in San Diego. While these spots are outdoors, we are currently at a stay at home order. but outdoor exercise is allowed so maybe go for a stroll, take a quick photo, stay away from others, wear your mask and don’t hang around some of these spots too long to help reduce the amount of people there.

Insta-Worthy Holiday Photo Spots in SD:

Little Italy Piazza della Famiglia – They currently have this spot decorated with beautiful, large snowflakes draping over the outdoor seating section and pretty Christmas lights. They also have large human-sized nut crackers displayed around so you can take some festive photos.

Garrison Street Lights in Point Loma – This neighborhood lights up their homes every day in Dec until 10 pm. If you go, go at night and maybe take a flash so you can capture yourself in front of the lit up homes or (if you find the right angle) you can use the christmas lights to help light up your face! I went recently just to drive by and check it out and it was quite a small section lit up, but it was still super pretty!

Christmas Circle in Chula Vista –  For the past 60 years it’s been tradition for these homes from Whitney street and Mankato Circle to display their Christmas spirit. Make sure to go before 10pm as well as most houses will turn their lights off around this time.

Candy Cane Lane (Poway) – This one is one of the more famous lit up neighborhoods in San Diego as the houses go all out by putting thousands of lights up to illuminate the neighborhood. I kind of want to just go drive through here with a hot cup of coco and take in all the holiday cheer. Location: Hickory Court, Hickory Street, off Twin Peaks Road and Silverset St. Also Includes Butterwood Ct. and Rockrose Ct.

Old Globe Balboa Park – I’m not sure if they will be doing it this year (couldn’t find out online), but the Old Globe in Balboa Park normally puts up a big fun and beautiful Christmas tree next to the old globe! It’s always nice for a photo with the family and just a cute holiday moment.

Polite Provisions– My fave bar which always has the best holiday decor! I love shooting here every single year. While they do have the inside all decorated, the outside is just as cute!! Lights everywhere, frosty chilled windows and candy cane lights.

Liberty Station in Point Loma: I skate here often so I have seen the cute decor they have up! There are trees all lit up and a Christmas tree right before the skating rink across the street from The Lot theater.

Ocean Beach, Newport Avenue: This is just a very typical Cali Winter kind of backdrop. Lined up palm trees ending at the ocean’s edge and a huge sign over the street that says Happy Holidays. Super cute spot but you will definitely be dodging cars to get the shot!

Hotel Del Coronado – Normally they have Ice skating in front of this hotel right next to the ocean, but this time they are transforming the lawn into a winter wonderland. They will have sparkling lights, huge decorated trees and fake snow. I bet this will be adorable and fun to visit! Make sure to check in before you go as it may change from day to day due to current covid regulations.

Mission beach– If you head to Mission Beach (Belmont park to be exact) there are cute decorations here and there. At the entrance of Belmont park there is a huge snowman riding a wave that you can shoot cute pics in front of. Definitely cute for a pic with friends or family.