North County San Diego is a gem year-round, but March is especially beautiful. With mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and plenty of outdoor and cultural events, it’s the perfect time to explore the area. Whether you’re into hiking, beaches, food, or local festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in North County San Diego this March.
1. Witness the Carlsbad Flower Fields in Full Bloom
One of the most iconic springtime attractions in North County is the Carlsbad Flower Fields. From early March through early May, the rolling hills of Carlsbad are painted in vibrant shades of red, yellow, pink, and orange as 50 acres of ranunculus flowers bloom. Stroll through the fields, take a tractor ride, and enjoy photo ops at every turn.
📍 Where: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
📅 When: Opens early March
🎟️ Cost: Ticket prices vary (check online for availability)
2. Go Whale Watching in Oceanside
March is peak gray whale migration season, making it a fantastic time to head out on a whale-watching tour from Oceanside Harbor. You’ll have a chance to spot gray whales, dolphins, and other marine life as they migrate along the coast.
📍 Where: Oceanside Harbor
📅 When: Daily tours available
🎟️ Cost: Varies by tour operator
3. Enjoy a Beach Day Without the Summer Crowds
North County’s beaches are stunning, and March is a great time to enjoy them before the summer rush. Whether you want to surf, have a picnic, or simply relax, here are a few top spots:
- Moonlight Beach (Encinitas) – Family-friendly with picnic tables, restrooms, and volleyball courts.
- Swami’s Beach (Encinitas) – A world-famous surf break with scenic bluffs.
- Tamarack Beach (Carlsbad) – A great spot for walking along the coast and watching the sunset.
4. Take a Brewery or Wine Tour
North County San Diego has a thriving craft beer scene and is also home to several wineries. Some great options include:
🍺 Brewery Stops: Belching Beaver (Oceanside), Stone Brewing (Escondido), Burgeon Beer (Carlsbad)
🍷 Winery Options: Orfila Vineyards (Escondido), Beach House Winery (Oceanside)
5. Hike Torrey Pines or Lake Hodges
March is a great time to hit the trails before the summer heat sets in. Two fantastic hiking spots include:
🥾 Torrey Pines State Reserve – Scenic coastal trails with breathtaking ocean views.
🥾 Lake Hodges – A more inland hike with wildflowers and a peaceful reservoir setting.
6. Attend the Oceanside International Film Festival
Film buffs will enjoy the Oceanside International Film Festival, featuring independent films, documentaries, and shorts from around the world. It’s a great way to experience North County’s thriving arts scene.
📍 Where: Various locations in Oceanside
📅 When: Check official website for dates
🎟️ Cost: Ticket prices vary
7. Explore Anza-Borrego’s Wildflower Super Bloom
A bit further inland, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park can explode with wildflowers in March if conditions are right. The super bloom is a spectacular natural event where desert lilies, poppies, and other wildflowers cover the landscape. Check online for bloom updates before making the drive.
📍 Where: Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
📅 When: Best viewed mid-to-late March (weather dependent)
🎟️ Cost: Free (parking fees may apply)
8. Experience the San Diego Botanic Garden in Spring
If you love plants and gardens, San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas is a must-visit. March is when many plants begin blooming, and you can explore themed gardens, including a rainforest, desert landscape, and children’s garden.
📍 Where: 230 Quail Gardens Dr, Encinitas
📅 When: Open daily
🎟️ Cost: $10-$18 per person
9. Catch a Concert at The Belly Up in Solana Beach
The Belly Up Tavern is one of the best live music venues in North County. March always brings a lineup of fantastic artists, from indie rock bands to blues and reggae performers.
📍 Where: 143 S Cedros Ave, Solana Beach
📅 When: Check schedule online for shows
🎟️ Cost: Varies by artist
10. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Style
North County has some great St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, from parades to pub crawls. Check out:
🍀 Oceanside St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival
March is an exciting time to explore North County San Diego. Whether you’re enjoying the beauty of the Flower Fields, hiking along the coast, or diving into the local food and drink scene, there’s no shortage of things to do. Pack your camera, sunscreen, and sense of adventure—springtime in North County is not to be missed!
Did we miss any must-do activities? Let us know in the comments! 🌴☀️
