01 May 2026

Soak Up Summer in San Diego: Events, Music and Coastal Fun

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

There is no better time to plan a trip to San Diego than during the summertime months. With near perfect weather, endless outdoor activities, and a beautiful coastal setting, it is the ideal season to experience the best San Diego summer events.

Join us for a stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, our waterfront hotel on Shelter Island, and enjoy resort-style amenities paired with a prime location on San Diego Bay. From concerts right here on the bay to iconic events across the city, here are some of the top things to do in San Diego this summer.

Humphreys Concerts by the bay | May through November 2026

If you are looking for a true San Diego waterfront concert experience, our very own Humphreys Concerts by the bay is a must. Located onsite at the hotel, this open-air venue features a diverse lineup of live music, comedy, and entertainment throughout the season. With views of the San Diego Bay and an intimate setting, it is one of the most unique places to enjoy live music in San Diego. Guests can walk from their room to the venue, making it easy to plan an evening out without ever leaving the property!

Humphreys Backstage LIVE | Ongoing

For a more laid-back summer experience, Humphreys Backstage LIVE offers the perfect setting to unwind by the water. Our onsite lounge combines live music with a relaxed atmosphere, making it an easy addition to any evening on Shelter Island. Grab a happy hour bite, sip on a handcrafted cocktail or a local San Diego beer, and settle in with views of the marina just steps away. With live performances from local artists and touring musicians, it is a great way to enjoy live music in San Diego without leaving the property.

Nighttime Zoo at the San Diego Zoo | May through early September 2026

Experience the San Diego Zoo in a completely different way during Nighttime Zoo. Open later into the evening, this seasonal event features live music, special entertainment, and interactive experiences throughout the park. It is a great option for families and visitors looking to explore one of San Diego’s most iconic attractions after the sun goes down.

SeaWorld Summer Spectacular | May through early September 2026

Summer at SeaWorld San Diego brings extended park hours, live entertainment, and seasonal shows. Guests can enjoy high-energy live performances from Soulja Boy, Jordin Sparks, E-40, and more, animal encounters, and nighttime fireworks throughout the summer. This amusement park is a great choice for visitors of all ages and adds even more excitement to a San Diego vacation.

San Diego County Fair | June through July 5, 2026

The San Diego County Fair is a classic summer tradition filled with rides, food, live music, and exhibits. Held at the nearby Del Mar Fairgrounds, this event offers something for everyone and is one of the most popular things to do in San Diego during the summer. From concerts and games to unique food vendors, it is a full day experience worth adding to your itinerary.

Big Bay Boom | July 4, 2026

Celebrate Independence Day with one of the largest fireworks shows in Southern California. Big Bay Boom lights up the San Diego Bay with a synchronized display launched from multiple locations around the water. Guests staying with us at Humphreys Half Moon Inn have a prime viewing location right on Shelter Island, making it one of the best places to experience the Fourth of July in San Diego.

San Diego Comic-Con | July 23 to July 26, 2026

San Diego Comic-Con is one of the most well-known events in the city, bringing together fans of comics, film, television, and pop culture from around the world. Even if you are not attending the convention itself, the surrounding events and energy throughout San Diego make it an exciting time to visit. Held in Downtown San Diego each year, stay just minutes away from all of the excitement here on Shelter Island.

La Jolla SummerFest | July through August 2026

Experience world-class music at La Jolla SummerFest, a renowned chamber music festival held each summer in the coastal community of La Jolla. This multi-week event brings together internationally acclaimed musicians for a series of performances ranging from classical to contemporary. Set just a short drive from Shelter Island, it is a great way to enjoy a cultural evening paired with beautiful coastal scenery.

Del Mar Racing Season | Late July through early September 2026

The Del Mar Racetrack returns each summer with its iconic racing season. This long-standing San Diego tradition combines horse racing, fashion, and a lively social atmosphere. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon or evening and experience a different side of San Diego summer culture.

Plan Your Summer Stay in San Diego

Make the most of summer in San Diego with a stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. Located on Shelter Island, this waterfront hotel offers easy access to top attractions, live music, and seasonal events across the city. Spend your days exploring the bay with onsite bike rentals, relax poolside with drinks from the pool bar, and wind down in the evening with nightly movies on the lawn. From bayfront concerts and nearby festivals to laid-back moments right here at the hotel, it's the perfect home base for a San Diego summer getaway. Book your stay and experience summer by the bay!

01 Apr 2026

Your Perfect 3-Day Spring Getaway in San Diego

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Spring is one of the best times to visit San Diego, with warm, sunny days, coastal breezes, and plenty of seasonal experiences to enjoy. From wandering through colorful flower fields to walking along the waterfront or catching a sunset by the cliffs, it’s the perfect setting for a laid-back getaway.

If you’re wondering how to spend a long weekend here, three days is a great place to start. With the right mix of beach time, local spots, and a few must-see attractions, you can experience the best of San Diego without feeling rushed.

This 3-day San Diego spring itinerary is designed to help you do just that, with easy ideas for what to see, where to go, and how to make the most of your time. Settle in with us here at Humphreys Half Moon Inn on Shelter Island, a relaxed waterfront retreat that keeps you close to the bay, downtown, and some of the city’s most scenic coastal views.

Day One:

Morning

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast or brunch with a water view at Humphreys SoCAL Dining and treat yourself to our famous Lobster Omelet or Vanilla Strawberry French Toast and a Bloody Mary (or two!) to prepare for a day of exploring the spring flowers in San Diego.

Afternoon

Get your spring vacation in San Diego started off right with a visit to the popular San Diego Flower Fields. Spend some time among the blooms at popular Balboa Park in the beautiful rose gardens and the manicured area around the botanical building with the lily pond. It’s also worth the drive out to the Carlsbad Flower Fields, where you will be greeted by 80 million vibrant blooms! Such a sight to see that you won’t want to miss during your spring vacation to San Diego.

Evening

The best part of the day in San Diego is sunset, because we have the most amazing views! Visit nearby Sunset Cliffs for the most gorgeous scenes and reminisce about the fun you had spending the day in San Diego. After a relaxing sunset show, prepare to be wowed with dinner and waterfront and city views at Coasterra! Here you will find the most amazing modern Mexican menu with Baja-inspired cuisine like the Ahi Tuna Tostada and the Mexican Paella for two… and some of the best coconut margaritas in town!

Wrap Up the Day

End the evening with a glass of wine at our Fireside Terrace, surrounded by tiki torches and palm trees, then settle in for our nightly movie nights under the stars, starting at sunset on the lawn.

Day Two:

Morning

Photo: @sarahhlarson_

Rise and shine to an invigorating stroll along the Shelter Island walking path. Enjoy marina views, coastal scenes, and people watching as you make your way to Portside Coffee & Gelato for morning fuel of a Mocha Freeze or Caramel Macchiato and a Breakfast Burrito or Acai Bowl.

Afternoon

The next stop on your 3-day San Diego adventure is popular Belmont Park, right beside Mission Beach, where you have your choice of activities, events, and experiences to enjoy. The fun starts at Escapology, San Diego's premier escape room with a live-action game with themed rooms filled with clues to help you make it to the next stage! The San Diego vacation fun continues with the rides and attractions at the seaside amusement park, which celebrated its 100^th anniversary last year. Choose from exciting activities like laser tag, mini-golf, arcade games, rock wall climbing, and more!

Evening

Since you’re already at Belmont Park, it’s a great time to grab dinner nearby at Cannonball. This popular rooftop restaurant features one of the largest oceanfront rooftop patios in San Diego, with sweeping beach views that are especially beautiful around sunset. The menu leans into fresh sushi and coastal favorites, making it an easy, laid-back spot to unwind after a day by the water.

After dinner, take a short stroll for something sweet at The Baked Bear, a local favorite known for its custom ice cream sandwiches made with warm cookies and house-churned ice cream.

Wrap Up the Day

End the evening with a relaxing soak in the outdoor jacuzzi, surrounded by swaying palms and warm island-inspired ambiance. It’s the perfect way to unwind, with a calm, tropical setting that makes it easy to slow down and enjoy the night.

Day Three:

Morning

Take a morning dip in the pool at Humphreys and soak in the SoCal sunshine, then enjoy an early lunch from the Oasis Pool Bar & Bites. The Shrimp Tacos or Wagyu Sliders are the perfect treat along with a Blueberry Lemonade or Pina Colada for a tropical vibe!

Afternoon

Get ready for the perfect day on the water in San Diego with a whale-watching cruise with Next Level Sailing. Experience a great adventure aboard a 139 ft yacht where you will see an abundance of wildlife, including: sea lions, dolphins, whales, and more! You’ll spend an exciting afternoon on the water, sailing along the CA coast that you won’t soon forget. Definite photo op for your socials!

Evening

You’re just in time for dinner at Old Venice in Point Loma, where you can treat yourself to a locals’ fave. You won’t want to miss this amazing restaurant during your 3-day spring San Diego vacation. You can dine by candlelight inside, or on their beautiful, heated garden patio, for a real treat. You’ll love the Italian cuisine and should probably order the Braised Filet Pappardelle or Osso Bucco if you want to be impressed! And don’t forget dessert of their divine Tiramisu or Creme Brulee. If you time it right, there should be live music at Humphreys after dinner! Make plans to see your favorite band right here at your hotel at Humphreys Concerts by the bay or Humphreys Backstage LIVE for the best music at the best venues in San Diego.

Wrap Up the Day

After a long day out on the water in San Diego, soaking up the sunshine and taking in the amazing views, it’s time to relax and unwind with a dip in the refreshing pool at Humphreys. Splash in the cool water, then cozy up by the fire pits with a nightcap on our Fireside Terrace before retiring to your suite for the evening.

Are You Ready to Plan the Perfect 3-Day Trip to San Diego?

The perfect 3-day escape to San Diego starts at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, the best Shelter Island hotel for your spring vacation in San Diego. We invite you to take advantage of these Special Offers for your next stay at Humphreys to make planning your spring escape even more affordable!

01 Apr 2026

Your Guide to Spring & Summer Concerts in San Diego: Live at Humphreys

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Warm evenings, ocean air, and live music drifting across the water — this is what summer in San Diego is all about. Right here at our Shelter Island hotel, enjoy a one-of-a-kind concert experience at Humphreys Concerts by the bay, where your favorite artists perform just steps from the shoreline. If you haven’t added our iconic waterfront concert venue to your bucket list, now’s the time. Check out our spring and summer 2026 lineup and start getting excited to dance the night away under the swaying palms!

The History of Humphreys Concerts by the bay

Founded in 1982 by Rob Hagey as a jazz bar, the original Humphreys had just a couple of hundred plastic tables for concertgoers in San Diego. That didn't last long, though, because Humphreys Concerts by the bay quickly grew due to the popular demand for live music. By 1985, there were rows of chairs that could accommodate 650 fans, who could conveniently stay with us at Humphreys Half Moon Inn with the popular “concert and stay" packages. Today, the tradition continues with a 1,400 seat waterfront venue that has been sharing the stage with some of the best bands and artists in the world for over 40 years.

Past notable artists that have performed at Humphreys Concerts by the bay over the years include Alice Cooper, Aretha Franklin, Jimmy Buffett, John Legend, Roy Orbison, Tony Bennett, Dana Carvey, and so much more!

Why is a Concert at Humphreys Concerts by the bay So Unique?

Our distinct and intimate waterfront venue is a popular place to see live music with locals and visitors of the San Diego area, and it’s no wonder why! Where else can you see your top favorite bands with a waterfront view and access that allows you to arrive at the show via boat and paddleboard?! Yes, please and thank you!

Perfectly situated between Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music and Humphreys Half Moon Inn, the concert season at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay runs from April through October and has a variety of national acts ranging from rock to comedy and blues to jazz. The popular San Diego Bay waterfront venue seats 1,400 and is one of the best places to see a live show in San Diego.

What Concerts Are Happening This Spring and Summer in San Diego?

The past artists were phenomenal, but the best music is yet to come with the 2026 Concert Lineup at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego. No matter what music genre you like, there is sure to be a concert you’ll want to see. You’ll want to be sure to check out:

April Concerts:

May Concerts:

June Concerts:

July Concerts:

…and so many more amazing acts to see this spring and summer at Humphreys Concerts by the bay!

Get your tickets here!

But Wait…There’s More Music at Humphreys

In addition to the amazing Humphreys Concerts by the bay, our Shelter Island hotel is also home to Humphreys Backstage LIVE lounge, where you can enjoy an intimate evening of live music, amazing happy hours, and stunning waterfront views while listening to some of the best dance, R&B, and jazz bands in San Diego.

Throughout the years, Humphreys Backstage LIVE has been home to an incredible concert series that ranges from nationally renowned artists to amazing rising local talents. Here, you will experience a vibrant live music scene as well as delicious culinary options like shareable appetizers, creative small plates, and handcrafted cocktails in an intimate setting for a memorable night in San Diego.

You can see live music every Wednesday through Sunday at Backstage LIVE from bands like Blame Betty, Memphis Soul Review, Next Level, Rising Star, Chickenbone Slim, and more! Be sure to check out these amazing shows and more on the upcoming concert calendar to see during your visit to San Diego this spring or summer.

Where Should You Stay for Concerts in San Diego?

Are you wondering where to stay for concerts in San Diego? Humphreys Half Moon Inn, of course! Just steps away from the fun at these popular San Diego concert venues, Humphreys offers luxury rooms and suites, along with the best resort-style amenities for the perfect concert experience in San Diego.

Enjoy these urban amenities and perks as a guest of Humphreys Half Moon Inn in San Diego

Humphreys Half Moon Inn Resort-Style Amenities:

Private Onsite Marina
Humphreys Social Dining & Music (Waterfront Restaurant and Lounge)
Relaxing Outdoor Pool & Spa
Onsite Bicycle Rental
Oasis Pool Bar
Relaxing Fireside Terrace
24/7 Lobby Pantry
Onsite Massage Services
State-of-the-Art Fitness Center
Convenient Onsite Parking
Humphreys Concerts by the bay

Be sure to take advantage of the SPECIAL Hotel, Dinner, and Concert packages from Humphreys Half Moon Inn that include it all!

Humphreys Half Moon Inn Special Packages Includes:

Dinner for two in Humphreys Restaurant
Two Concert Tickets in Rows 1 through 5
Overnight Accommodations for Two in a Beautifully Appointed Guest Room/Suite

Are you Ready for a ‘Jam’ Good Vacation to San Diego This Spring?

Nothing says fun in the sun like a trip to the San Diego coast and an outdoor concert at Humphreys Concerts by the bay. Make plans now for a spring or summer vacation to San Diego with a stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn to see live music from your favorite artists and bands! We have everything you need for the perfect warm-weather escape, from the best music to the best accommodations in San Diego – Humphreys is the place to be!

01 Mar 2026

Solo in San Diego: A Spring Guide to Shelter Island & Beyond

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

Spring break travel is often associated with family vacations or group trips filled with busy schedules and nonstop plans. While that can be fun, a slower-paced, wellness-focused solo escape can be just as rewarding. In fact, many travelers are turning towards “soft travel,” a trend centered on relaxation, flexibility, and meaningful experiences at a gentler pace. With our year-round sunshine, beautiful waterfront views, and laid-back coastal lifestyle, San Diego is the perfect destination for a solo spring getaway where you can unwind, explore, and recharge on your own schedule.

What is “Soft Travel” & Why is This Trending With Millennials and Gen Z?

"Soft travel" is a modern term that defines the newest travel trend with millennials and Gen Z, where they are looking for vacations that include peaceful wellness escapes, low-pressure trips, and quiet getaways where the focus is on a slower, more relaxing vibe, where they can choose what they want to do and explore at their own pace. The ideal solo travel plan is to create a relaxing vacation experience that recharges and motivates, rather than a jam-packed schedule that can be exhausting and even overwhelming.

The Growing Trend for Solo Travel Opportunities

According to recent travel industry reports, the trend for solo soft travel opportunities continues to grow and is expected to surge this spring. Statistics indicate there is already a growth rate of 90% for spring solo travel plans compared to last year’s travelers. Not only is the solo travel experience trending up, but these relaxation mode specialists are also doubling the number of vacation days, making their downtime a priority… and we’re here for it!

Spring break isn’t just for groups anymore. Today’s spring breaker is looking for a trip that will recharge and motivate. Here are the top things a typical solo traveler is looking for when planning a San Diego vacation adventure.

Top 5 Things Solo Travelers Want in a Vacation Destination:

Walkable neighborhoods to explore
Plenty of fun activities nearby
Safe, comfortable place to stay and relax
A splash of local culture to experience
Lots of local dining options worthy of foodies

Why Humphreys is Perfect for Solo Travelers

Photo: @photosbycece93

Humphreys Half Moon Inn on Shelter Island is the perfect place for solo spring break travelers who are looking for the best San Diego hotel for their vacation experience. In fact, we have created a special package just for our solo travelers called One Happy Traveler that includes a King Bed and a Welcome Bottle of Wine!

In addition to amazing accommodations with water and tropical view suites, our solo guests at Humphreys Half Moon Inn will also enjoy resort-style amenities, including waterfront dining at Humphreys SoCAL Dining & Music, an outdoor pool and spa, a fireside terrace, onsite bicycle rentals, a modern fitness center, onsite massage services, and even a private marina and music venue! Our Shelter Island hotel is the perfect place to escape the grind and unwind during your solo vacation in San Diego.

Solo Traveler Places to Visit in San Diego:

On-site at Humphreys Half Moon Inn:

Enjoy a concert during your stay in San Diego at Humphreys Backstage LIVE or Humphreys Concerts by the Bay, which are both located onsite at our Shelter Island hotel.
Treat yourself to a massage during your stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn in our treatment room or in the comfort of your own suite! Choose from a variety of treatments, including deep tissue, aromatherapy, hot lava shells, and more.
Guests are invited to hop on your complimentary bicycle rental and explore Shelter Island via the paved seaside trails for a relaxing day near the water in San Diego.
Enjoy the amazing onsite resort-style amenities that range from a relaxing hot tub and pool to an onsite restaurant and waterfront bar.

Around San Diego:

Learn to surf during your stay at Humphreys Half Moon Inn. San Diego Surf School in nearby Pacific Beach offers lessons with a pro that includes everything you need – from the wet suit to the surf board! Take a private lesson or join in on the group session.
Take an invigorating hike on an amazing San Diego trail! There are so many great places to take a hike in San Diego. From trails with water views to those with rugged cliffs, our unique and diverse trail system is popular with locals and visitors.
Visit the 18 museums at Balboa Park! No matter what your interests, you are sure to find a museum at this popular park to pique your interest! From the Comic-Con Museum to the Fleet Science Center, this is a great opportunity to explore at your own pace in San Diego.
Get yourself a ticket to the hottest game in town at Petco Park! Check out a San Diego Padres baseball game during your solo travels to San Diego! Cheer for the home team and enjoy a Major League Baseball experience while staying at Humphreys!
Explore Old Town San Diego and learn about our culture and the historic buildings. Enjoy the California sunshine as you walk downtown to visit the local shops and boutiques. Grab lunch or dinner at a fun restaurant and enjoy the adventure.

The Best Place for Solo Travelers in San Diego – Humphreys Half Moon Inn on Shelter Island

If you’re looking for a relaxing island oasis in San Diego that is still close to all the best attractions and things to do — Humphreys Half Moon Inn is exactly what you are looking for! We invite you to experience our peaceful Shelter Island location for the ultimate escape. You will enjoy a solo getaway with resort-style amenities and the best location in town that is still located near all the most popular things to do in San Diego! Book the One Happy Traveler solo package today for a comfortable room and an experience in San Diego you won’t soon forget.

01 Jan 2026

New Year, New Experiences: Things to Do in San Diego That You Can’t Do at Home

By Humphreys Half Moon Inn

A trip to San Diego is like no other, and it’s the perfect place to experience amazing adventures and see some of the most unique sites in the U.S. If you are looking for a little excitement in the New Year, plan your escape to Humphreys Half Moon Inn today and experience the most amazing things to do in San Diego that you definitely cannot do at home! From concerts by the bay to a hot tub boat ride — get ready for an adventure in SoCAL that you won’t soon forget.

Bucket-List San Diego Things to Do in 2026:

See a Concert at the Best Waterfront Venue in San Diego (Onsite at Hotel)

There is truly nothing better than being able to see your favorite band in concert at the coolest music venue in San Diego… our very own Humphreys Concerts by the bay! Welcome to Humphreys, where you can see the best bands, in the most amazing waterfront venue right here at our Shelter Island hotel. Guests of Humphreys Half Moon Inn can take a short walk to the show and even pull up on a boat or paddleboard if that’s your thing. We are excited about the 2026 Concert Season schedule and can’t wait to drop the details soon!

Take a Wild Ride on Sea & Land

You are in for an amazing adventure in San Diego when you book a tour with Sea & Land and experience the boat on wheels tour! Splashing down from our onsite Shelter Island marina, you will see the best of San Diego on sea and land with a 100-minute, narrated SEAL Tour. The exciting tour takes you through the streets of San Diego before splashing down for a cruise through the waters of the San Diego Bay. Learn about the military history of San Diego as you cruise past the whales, seals, and sea lions. A totally unique and fun way to spend the day in San Diego!

Rent a Hot Tub Boat (4.1 Miles From Hotel)

Cruisin’ on a hot tub boat with views of the California coast definitely isn’t something you can do at home! Share a unique experience on Mission Bay with a unique and fun hot tub boat rental in San Diego. Hot Tub Cruisin’ offers a one-of-a-kind hot tub boat rental experience that is perfect for a group of friends or a romantic cruise in San Diego. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride and a comfortable hot tub soak with a nice sound system that connects to your favorite devices. There’s also a cooler, extra seating, and a swim ladder for a dip in the bay. So much fun and such a great one-of-a-kind experience in San Diego!

See a Rooftop Movie with Skyline Views (5.3 Miles From Hotel)

Watch your favorite movie with the city skyline as your backdrop for a perfect evening under the stars in San Diego. Enjoy a movie at the open-air Rooftop Cinema Club in the Embarcadero for a fun and unique night in San Diego. You’ll love the pre-movie games, amazing skyline views, delicious cocktails, and yummy snacks. When it’s movie time, you will wear personal headphones and get lost in the movie with premium audio and video on the big screen.

Say Hello to the Seals in La Jolla (12.7 Miles From Hotel)

Known locally as Seal Beach, La Jolla Cove is a great place to visit during your trip to San Diego. La Jolla Cove is popular with locals and guests because it offers the opportunity to observe marine life, including the playful seals and sea lions along the coast. You can see them frolicking on most days in the clear water along the rugged coastline. You will also enjoy unique sea caves and unobstructed sunset views from this unique spot in San Diego.

Tee Off at a Championship Golf Course (14.8 Miles From Hotel)

Touted as one of the nation’s best golf courses, Torrey Pines Municipal Golf Course is the perfect place to spend the day teeing off in the California sunshine. Offering majestic views of the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines has been home to the U.S. Open several times as well as the Farmers Insurance Open, which is happening this January! This is one of the best golf courses in San Diego for challenging play with stunning ocean views. The legendary course opened in 1957 and today it offers two 18-hole Championship courses — the North and South courses — which offer a challenge with tight fairways, deep rough, bunkers galore, and amazing length.

So Much to See and Do in San Diego at Humphreys Half Moon Inn on Shelter Island

From onsite concerts and amazing seaside dinners to golfing by the ocean and visiting the sea creatures in La Jolla, San Diego is the place to be for unique adventures and plenty of exciting places to explore. If you are ready for a unique adventure with plenty of things you can’t do at home, book your suite at Humphreys Half Moon Inn, and prepare for a new year of new experiences in San Diego. Humphreys Half Moon Inn is the place to be — no matter what you want to do for fun in San Diego.