November in North County San Diego is a magical time. The big Summer crowds have tapered off, the weather has turned a little crisper (especially in the evenings) and the region launches into its festive-holiday and pre-holiday rhythm. According to local guides, November offers “a perfect month to visit” thanks to comfortable weather, fewer crowds and value rates at many resorts. For homeowners and vacation-rental guests alike, this means you can enjoy the coast, the inland valleys, and unique local events with a little more breathing room. Below are 10 top things to do in Nov 2025 in North County San Diego, from outdoor adventures to cultural events, food & drink, and family-friendly experiences.

Torrey Pines

1. Explore Scenic Coastal Hikes

North County isn’t just beaches. There are stunning inland trails, lagoons and parks that are perfect in November’s climate. For example, the Batiquitos Lagoon between Carlsbad and Encinitas is a wonder for nature-lovers. And the San Dieguito River Park provides miles of green space stretching from the coast inland.

What to do:

• Take the trail around Batiquitos Lagoon, bring binoculars for bird-watching (migratory birds begin to appear).
• Pick an inland hill trail for a morning hike while it’s cool, then reward yourself with a coffee in a nearby town.
• Consider a late-afternoon hike so you can watch the setting sun cast light over the hills.
• Walk along the cliffs of Torrey Pines overlooking the Pacific Ocean for stunning views of the coastline.
  Pro tip: Bring layers—coastal mornings may be cool and inland trails can be shaded in the afternoon.

2. Visit the Carlsbad Village Farmers’ Market

Held every Wednesday and Saturday, the Carlsbad Village Farmers’ Market is a must-visit in November. Enjoy local produce, artisan goods, and seasonal treats. The market has a festive vibe during the fall months, making it a great spot to find holiday gifts and fresh ingredients for Thanksgiving. Check out our coastal Carlsbad homes to be within walking distance to the Farmer’s Market.

3. Catch a Sunset at the Beach

November sunsets in North County are nothing short of magical. With fewer crowds, it’s the ideal time to grab a blanket and head to a beach like Moonlight Beach in Encinitas or Tamarack Beach in Carlsbad. The cooler air and stunning fall colors in the sky create a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxing.

The Campstore is a local favorite for catching the sunset along with live music, food and drinks! It’s an ideal spot for families and pets too!

4. Attend the San Diego Beer Week

If you’re a fan of craft beer, you’re in luck! November hosts the annual San Diego Beer Week, a 10-day celebration (November 7th – 16th) of local brews. Many breweries in North County, like Stone Brewing in Escondido and Pizza Port in Carlsbad, participate with special events, tastings, and food pairings. It’s a great way to enjoy the region’s renowned craft beer scene.

5. Walk the Downtown & Village Districts—Shop, Dine & Explore

North County has charming downtown and village districts (think Carlsbad Village, Encinitas, Oceanside harbor area) where strolling, shopping and eating out is a joy. November’s weather often makes evenings comfortable for outdoor patios and window-shopping.

What to do:

• Explore Carlsbad Village: boutique stores, beach-adjacent cafés, craft beer spots.

• In Encinitas, wander the 101 South Coast Highway corridor, pop into local surf shops, art galleries and cozy eateries.

• In Oceanside, head to the harbour area for dinner with a view.
  Bonus idea: Try a prix-fixe Thanksgiving menu at a restaurant—many local spots launch special menus in November.

Get a head start on your holiday shopping at some of North County’s unique boutiques and shopping centers. The Forum in Carlsbad , Cedros Avenue Design District in Solana Beach and The Carlsbad Premium Outlets offer a mix of local shops, upscale boutiques, and artisanal products. Plus, you’ll find plenty of festive decorations and deals throughout the month.

6. Attend an Early Holiday Light & Sound Experience

November marks the beginning of the holiday lights season, and one standout event in the North County is Lightscape at the San Diego Botanic Garden in Encinitas. For 2025, the event runs from November 14 through January 4.
What to expect:

• A one-mile illuminated walking trail through the gardens, with artistic light installations, tunnels of lights, ambient music and seasonal food & drink.

• Special “21+ nights” for grown-ups on select dates (more festive cocktails and ambiance).
  Why it’s great: It’s a unique, immersive experience that blends nature and holiday cheer—perfect for couples, families and groups.
  Tip: Reserve tickets early (weekends will fill up). Dress warmly for nighttime. See FAQ for trail info (uneven pathways).

7. Whale Watching Season Begins

November marks the start of whale watching season along the coast of San Diego. Head to Oceanside Harbor for a whale watching tour, where you might catch a glimpse of gray whales as they migrate south for the winter. The waters off North County are a prime spot for seeing these majestic creatures.

8. Golf with Ocean Views

North County is home to some of California’s most scenic golf courses. Enjoy a round at Aviara Golf Club in Carlsbad or Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, both offering stunning ocean views and perfect November weather for a day on the green.

9. Savor Local Food & Drinks (Craft Breweries, Wineries, Seafood)

North County’s food and drink scene is rich and varied—and November is an ideal month to explore it. With fewer tourists, you may get better service, easier reservations and pleasant outdoor dining. Local articles highlight how November features “food & drink events” in the San Diego region.
What to try:

• Visit a craft brewery in Carlsbad or Vista and sample a seasonal fall beer.

• Head to a local tasting room for California coastal wines—many are emphasizing “local sourcing” lately.

• Book a dinner in Carlsbad Village (or Oceanside) and enjoy views of the ocean as the sun sets.
  Extras: Keep your eyes peeled for wine-or-beer festivals in November that may seat fewer crowds and carry seasonal releases.

10. Lace Up for Fun: Turkey Trots in Encinitas and Oceanside

Thanksgiving in North County San Diego is more than just feasts and family gatherings—it’s also a time for community fun and fitness! If you’re looking to get active before your holiday meal, participating in a Turkey Trot is the perfect way to start the day. Two popular Thanksgiving morning events in the area are the Encinitas Turkey Trot and the Oceanside Turkey Trot. Use code gravy15 for 15% off the Encinitas Turkey Trot!

North Coast Village Penthouse in Oceanside

Plan a Relaxed Stay-cation or Mini Getaway

Finally, one of the best things about November in North County is that many resorts and vacation-rental hosts (like you at Haustay) find that value stays and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to stay longer, explore slower and soak in the local vibe.
What to explore:

• Book a weekend in Carlsbad Village or Oceanside, stay near the beach, walk to dinner and catch a sunset.

• Consider a spa day or wellness treatment at a local resort—nice wind-down after exploring.

• Use your base to explore multiple of the above experiences: morning beach, midday shopping, afternoon hike, and evening light-trail or brewery stop.
  Why it works: Prices are often better than peak summer, the weather is still great, and you’ll enjoy a more peaceful, authentic North County experience.

Packing & Weather Tips for November

Before wrapping up, here are some practical tips for making the most of November in North County.

• Weather: Expect day-time highs in the upper 60s to low 70s °F (about 20–22 °C) and evenings dipping into the 50s °F (≈10–12 °C).

• Beach & Water: The ocean water chills slightly (~62–64 °F). If you plan to swim or surf, a wetsuit may help. Otherwise, walks and paddleboards are great.

• Layers: Bring a light jacket or sweater for mornings and evenings. Layers allow you to feel comfortable from dawn beach strolls to dusk hikes.

• Reservations: For special events like Lightscape or themed dinners, book ahead.

• Sun protection: Yes—even in November the sun still matters. Bring sunscreen for morning beach walks or midday hikes.

• Crowds & Value: With fewer tourism-peak days, you’ll find nicer rates, fewer lines and easier access at restaurants and attractions.

Final Thoughts

November is one of those quietly rewarding months in North County San Diego—it doesn’t shout as loudly as summer, but it whispers “come linger awhile”. Whether your readers are families, couples, solo travelers or property-owners looking to highlight local experiences, this region offers a fine blend of outdoors, cozy charm, festive beginnings and local discovery.

The laid-back seaside community of Carlsbad is much quieter now that school is back in session and the summer crowd has slowed. Now is a perfect time to visit San Diego’s neighbor to the north. Offering visitors beaches, a long list of dining options and plenty of outdoor entertainment, Carlsbad has plenty to offer to families. Keep reading for 12 of our recommendations on what to do, what to eat and where to stay in the family friendly town of Carlsbad.

What To Do

LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California is probably what Carlsbad is best known for. Specially designed for families with children ages 12 and under, this amusement park offers mellow roller coasters, interactive rides, colorful play areas, hands-on LEGO pits, and other interactive park experiences.

Carlsbad Flower Fields

Every spring, between March and May, you can witness one of the most spectacular and coordinated displays of nearly fifty acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus flowers that make up The Flower Fields. Also be sure to check out gem-mining, free concerts, tractor-pulled wagon rides, and a maze made of sweet peas.

Have a Cabana Party

Beach Genie provides everything you need for a care-free day at the beach. They will set up a cabana, beach chairs, oversized beach towels, side tables, a cooler with local bottled water and beach games. This is the perfect scenario for travelers from out of town. You can just show up to the beach and everything you need is set up for you.

LEGOLAND Water Park

Located inside LEGOLAND California, the LEGOLAND Water Park is a must for the warmer months. The 10-acre park features more than seven slides, sandy beaches and the unique Build-A-Raft River plus Pirate Reef and LEGO Legends of CHIMA Water Park. There are special splash areas with fountains and mini waterslides just for toddlers and young children, too.

Carlsbad Lagoon

Located on Agua Hedionda Lagoon, the Carlsbad Lagoon is a change of pace from the beach featuring calm, uncrowded water. There are numerous fun activities and options from California Watersports. Here, you can rent stand-up paddle boards, canoes, jet skis, speed boats, aqua bikes, and more.

Strawberry Picking

If you are looking for a fun and popular springtime activity in Carlsbad, give strawberry picking a try!  Located in coastal Carlsbad, the third generation Carlsbad Strawberry Company is a family-run “U-pick” farm.  Families can enjoy strawberry picking from January through July. In the fall, look for a pumpkin patch and corn maze at this same location.

Where to Eat

For a Slice & a Beer

For a slice and a beer Pizza Port in Carlsbad Village is a family friendly spot popular with Carlsbad locals. Long picnic tables and video games give it a laid-back vibe. Pizza options range from custom-made creations to gourmet “anti-wimpy” pies like the BBQ bacon cheeseburger, plus salads and their famous beer buddies to round out the menu. As for beer, there is a wide selection of beers on tap to quench your thirst.

Mexican Cuisine

If you are craving authentic Mexican cuisine, Norte is a longtime local favorite. There is an outdoor patio adorned with fire pits for cooler nights and an expansive menu featuring something for the whole family.

Outdoor BBQ

If you’re looking for an outdoor dining spot in the heart of the Village, look no further than Park 101. There is something for everyone at this 8,000 sq. ft. multi-level, plaza-style complex. They are kid friendly and dog friendly and are centrally located and steps to the beach.  

Where to Stay

In the Heart of the Village

Located in the heart of Carlsbad Village and one block to the beach (and right next door to Park 101), guests love the “walkability” of Coastal Casita. The beach, restaurants, and shopping are steps away. Throw your car keys in the corner and enjoy your stay! This one-bedroom, one-bathroom condo sleeps 4 and guests love that the condo comes equipped with beach chairs, an umbrella, boogie boards, a surfboard, and beach toys for the kiddos. Coastal Casita has you covered for the ultimate beach vacation!

Close to the Beach & LEGOLAND

Discover your new favorite getaway at this stunning, Spanish-style home just two blocks from the beach in Carlsbad that we call Hacienda Terramar. This three-bedroom, two-bathroom home features sunny interior spaces, unique architectural features, cozy bedrooms and large private backyard! Spend your days relaxing at the beach or visiting LEGOLAND, less than two miles away. In the evenings, take a short walk to the beach to watch the sun set over the ocean or enjoy a backyard BBQ with a fire pit and test your skill at cornhole!

Ocean Front

Wake up to the sounds of the surf at Shore Drive, an oceanfront getaway with a private staircase leading down to the shores of Carlsbad. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom home features wall-to-wall windows on the ocean facing side of the home for an unobstructed, panoramic ocean view.

After spending the day at the beach, guests can enjoy home-cooked meals in the fully stocked kitchen, or a sunset BBQ on the patio, and restful nights in the comfortable bedrooms.