Say Goodbye to Summer this Labor Day Weekend in La Jolla
Labor Day weekend is an excellent time to visit La Jolla, San Diego’s most coveted beach community. From local wine and inventive cuisine to heart-pounding water-based activities, this town never stops delivering thrills, even once the summer months are officially behind us. And when you stay at Cormorant, our chic La Jolla boutique hotel, you’ll be well positioned to take advantage not only of La Jolla’s attractions but of those of the larger San Diego area as well. Read on for some ideas on how to spend your long weekend in our blissful corner of the Pacific coast.
Head to the San Diego Zoo
The legendary San Diego Zoo, one of the most popular attractions in San Diego, is about as busy as it gets in the warm summer months. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid it—simply go when the sun (and the throngs) have departed. Labor Day weekend is the last weekend in summer when the zoo is open until 9 p.m., giving you one final chance to roam its meandering paths under the twinkle of the stars. Make sure to ride the aerial tram—from this vantage, you can see all of Balboa Park and the glittering city skyline beyond.
Sunset Cocktail Session at Birdseye
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Labor Day marks the end of summer, which means you have limited time to enjoy those extended daylight hours. Make the most of it and head up to the top floor of Cormorant Boutique Hotel, where a sleek bar called Birdseye awaits. Sip on sophisticated cocktails while the sky slips deeper and deeper into fiery pink and orange hues. A lively environment and friendly bartenders make this rooftop bar undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do in San Diego for Labor Day weekend.
Celebrate California Wine Month
September marks California Wine Month, a celebration of the annual harvest season of the world’s fourth-largest wine-producing region in the world. What better way to enjoy the marvelous flavors of California’s varietals than by heading to Cormorant Boutique Hotel’s on-site Prospect Market to pick out the perfect bottle of wine? Enjoy it on your private trellised balcony, where the hum of the village and fragrant sea breezes set the mood.
Private Surf Lessons from Everyday California
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It’s no secret that Southern California is a mecca for surfers, but there’s something special about the late summer months. If you’re spending Labor Day in San Diego, it will be impossible not to notice: the water is warmer, the days are longer, and the swells are as big as they get. It truly is the best time to get out and ride the waves.
Not confident in your surfing skills? Guests of Cormorant Boutique Hotel get 20% at Everyday California, whose private surf lessons are tailored to your skill level. No experience is required and they’ll provide all the equipment you need. Just bring your sense of adventure!
Catch a Glimpse of Blue Whales
Looking for La Jolla attractions that will get you immersed in nature? Opt for a whale-watching tour. While gray whales migrate through Southern California’s waters in the winter months, blue whales make this area their stomping grounds through the summer months, giving you the chance to get up close and personal with these fascinating aquatic beasts.
The best way to see them is to sign up for a boat tour that will get you out far enough that, with any luck, you’ll be able to see these whales as they feed on the abundant krill found off the California coast. Tour operators like Offshore Blue Adventures and San Diego Whale Watch, both with departing locations in San Diego Bay, offer tours to see these massive creatures, the largest animals on the planet.
Grab Some Barbecue
When you think of a classic Labor Day weekend, what comes to mind? Cooking on a grill and enjoying some time outdoors? This holiday and barbecue go hand in hand, which is why you should make some time to stop at Bubba’s Smokehouse BBQ, a beloved spot in La Jolla for Southern-style ribs, pork, tri-tip, brisket, and chicken. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy a lip-smacking meal, including classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, corn on the cob, and macaroni and cheese.
12th Annual Jazz at the Creek 2023
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When: September 2nd and 3rd, 2023
Where: Market Creek Amphitheater
Hosted by 92.5’s on-air personalities, Kelly Cole and John Phillips, the weekend promises stellar performances from headliners Kirk Whalum on Saturday and Norman Brown on Sunday plus artists like Kevin Flournoy & Friends, the Lao Tizer Band, and Aretha Scruggs. Enjoy amazing food, upscale vendors, and great music, all in an inspiring outdoor setting, while contributing to a good cause — Mandate Project Impact’s Youth Employment Training Program.
Californian Tall Ship Adventure
When: Sunday, September 3rd 2023 @ 11:30am – 4pm
Where: Maritime Museum of San Diego, At Star of India Wharf, 1492 North Harbor Drive, San Diego CA
Step back in time with a four-hour adventure sail aboard the Californian, the Official Tall Ship of the State of California, proudly presented by the Maritime Museum of San Diego. This replica of a Gold Rush-era revenue cutter promises an immersive journey into the past. Come early, explore the historic fleet and exhibits before setting sail. Once aboard, join the crew to haul a line, man the helm, and witness the rigging of the sails while absorbing fascinating snippets of San Diego’s maritime past. including whaling, sea battles, and ship gunnery.
San Diego Symphony Presents the Music of Selena
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When: Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 7:30pm
Where: The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way, San Diego, CA 92101
If you’re looking for a more sophisticated night out on your getaway this Labor Day weekend in San Diego, catch the San Diego Symphony on an emotional tribute to the unforgettable Selena, “The Queen of Tejano Music.” Joined by award-winning artist Isabel Marie Sánchez, the symphony will bring Selena’s iconic hits to life in full orchestral grandeur. From “Dreaming of You” to “Bidi Bidi Bom Bom,” it’s a magical night of music and nostalgia.
ENVZN Urban Art Takeover
When: Saturday, September 2, 2023, 5pm to 10pm
Where: The Soap Factory, 2995 Commercial Street, San Diego, CA 92113
Tickets here
Add a little art adventure to your Labor Day weekend in San Diego and experience ENVZN23 Urban Art Takeover on September 2, 2023 – a unique festival transforming Commercial Street corridor’s industrial spaces into a vibrant canvas of visual and performing arts. From live dance, puppetry, theatre, and music performances on warehouse docks to a fashion show amidst an industrial lot and a mini film festival in a cross-fit gym, there’s an eclectic mix of arts to enjoy. Taste local cuisine, discover curated art installations with immersive soundscapes, and dive into the urban landscape through sound and lighting design. This recurring event sets the stage for the World Design Capital San Diego – Tijuana 2024, making it a key cultural destination. Be sure to arrive early for the VIP Wine and Culinary Experience at 5pm at the Soap Factory lounge.
Sesame Summer Splash
When: Daily until September 4, 2023
Where: 2052 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA 91911
Coming with the family? Sesame Place San Diego’s Sesame Summer Splash is the place to be. With over 18 rides, attractions, games, live shows, and the new Count’s Splash Castle, it’s a water-filled wonderland for families.
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When it comes to Labor Day weekend getaways in California, San Diego is hard to beat. Cormorant Boutique Hotel’s excellent location in La Jolla Village means you’ll have beaches, restaurants, shops, and museums to explore in the surrounding blocks. You’ll love our brand new rooms, private balconies, and on-site rooftop restaurant and bar, Birdseye.
