Fall in Oceanside and North San Diego County offers a special kind of magic. While the rest of the country might be layering up, here we enjoy the perfect mix of coastal charm and seasonal festivities. From family-friendly events to scenic outdoor adventures, the autumn months bring exciting activities that make this time of year just as memorable as summer – with the same great weather! Whether you're a local or visiting for a getaway, here are the top fall activities you won’t want to miss.
Kick off the fall season with a visit to Mellano Farm's annual Fall Festival! The farm stand, pumpkin patch, and corn maze are open every Thursday through Sunday from 10:30 am-5 pm. Every weekend brings even more fun with tractor rides, a bounce house/slide, gem panning, kids' crafts and games, live music, artisanal vendors, and local food and drink, including farm-crafted lemonade. It’s the perfect family day out!
Location: 5714 N River Rd, Oceanside, CA 92057
Dates: Every Thur-Sun, September 25 – November 3
Must-Do: Don’t miss the live music and tractor rides, and be sure to grab some farm-crafted lemonade for the perfect fall refreshment.
Just a short drive inland, the charming mountain town of Julian becomes a fall hotspot, famous for its apple orchards and homemade pies. Enjoy U-pick apple experiences at local orchards, then spend the day exploring the quaint shops and enjoying a slice of Julian's famous apple pie.
Location: Julian, CA (1-hour drive from Oceanside)
Dates: Late September through November
Must-Do: Make sure to stop by Julian Pie Company for a slice of apple pie before heading back to the coast!
Pumpkin picking is a fall must! The Carlsbad Strawberry Company turns into a festive wonderland with hayrides, a corn maze, and pumpkins galore. Families and visitors alike will love capturing the essence of fall at this beloved pumpkin patch.
Location: Carlsbad Strawberry Company
Dates: Late September through October
Must-Do: Try the family-friendly corn maze during the day or venture into the haunted maze if you're up for a spooky challenge!
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show hosted at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. You’ll find unique handmade items, from jewelry to home decor, crafted by talented artisans.
Location: Del Mar FairgroundsDates: Oct 11-13
Must-Do: Browse through one-of-a-kind pieces while enjoying live entertainment and festive fall treats.
The Oceanside Farmers Market is a year-round favorite, and in the fall, it shines with seasonal produce, fresh flowers, and artisan goods. Stop by on a Thursday evening and enjoy live music and delicious food and pick up some fall treats like fresh apple cider and pumpkin-flavored baked goods.
Location: Downtown Oceanside
Dates: Thursdays year-round
Must-Do: Visit on October 26th for the special Haunted Market with costume contests, trick-or-treating, Halloween music, and more!
If you love animals, the San Diego Zoo Safari Park offers a unique fall experience with special animal encounters and seasonal food and drink. The cooler fall temperatures make it a great time to explore the park’s safari tours, where you can see animals engaging in fall-themed enrichment activities.
Location: San Diego Zoo Safari ParkDates: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October
Must-Do: Hop on the Africa Tram for an open-air tour of the savanna, perfect for viewing the animals in the crisp autumn air.
For a wild Halloween, visit the San Diego Zoo’s HalGLOWeen celebration. The zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland with festive decorations, live entertainment, and interactive animal-themed Halloween activities. Perfect for kids and families, the event is a fun twist on traditional Halloween celebrations.
Location: San Diego ZooDates: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October
Must-Do: Watch a live animal presentation under the glow of Halloween lights and enjoy some sweet treats while exploring the zoo's spooky side.
For Halloween fun both day and night, SeaWorld San Diego hosts Spooktacular during the day with trick-or-treating and costume character meet-and-greets, followed by the scarier Howl-O-Scream in the evening. Whether you're visiting with family or seeking a thrilling experience, SeaWorld offers something for everyone this fall.
Location: SeaWorld San DiegoDates: September 27 - Nov 2
Must-Do: Enjoy the family-friendly Spooktacular during the day and return for Howl-O-Scream at night for a double dose of Halloween fun!
Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos in downtown Oceanside. The event features colorful altars, vibrant art, and cultural performances that honor and remember loved ones in a joyful celebration.
Location: Downtown OceansideDates: Oct 27
Must-Do: Visit the community altar and enjoy performances that bring this tradition to life.
Celebrate the Day of the Dead in historic Old Town San Diego. This vibrant event features altars, music, traditional food, and cultural performances that honor the memories of those who have passed.
Location: Old Town San DiegoDates: Nov 1-2
Must-Do: Be sure to explore the colorful altars and enjoy traditional Mexican food while soaking in the historic charm of Old Town.
Dates: Nov 2-3
Must-Do: Pick fresh marigolds for your ofrenda and take part in the community altar and marigold garland-making activities.
With so many exciting events and beautiful coastal weather, there’s no better place to enjoy the season. Book your stay with On The Sand Vacations and make the most of your fall getaway by the beach. From pumpkin patches to Halloween fun, Oceanside and North San Diego County offer the perfect autumn escape.
