So, you're looking at the 10 day weather san diego ca forecast and thinking it’s all palm trees and tan lines. Honestly? That’s how they get you.
I’ve spent enough time around the Gaslamp Quarter and the cliffs of La Jolla to know that January in San Diego is a total mood ring. One minute you're basking in a 75°F afternoon that feels like July, and the next, you’re digging through your suitcase for a hoodie because the marine layer just rolled in like a cold, gray blanket.
Right now, as of January 18, 2026, we are sitting in a weirdly beautiful pocket of warmth. The high today is a crisp 75°F. That is a solid ten degrees above the historical average for this time of year. If you’re outside right now, it’s glorious. But don't let that sun fool you into thinking the next week is going to stay this way.
The Reality of the 10 day weather san diego ca Forecast
People always talk about "America's Finest City" having perfect weather, but January is when the Pacific actually remembers it’s winter.
Looking at the upcoming week, we’re seeing a classic "step-down" pattern. Tomorrow, Monday, drops to 69°F. Still great, right? But by Wednesday, the clouds move in, and we hit 64°F. By the time Friday, January 23 hits, we’re looking at a high of only 60°F with a 35% chance of light rain.
That’s the thing about San Diego—the "winter" isn't about snow; it’s about that damp, coastal chill that gets into your bones because nobody’s house is actually built with proper insulation.
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What’s Actually Happening This Week?
The National Weather Service is tracking a low-pressure system that's currently messing with the high pressure we've been enjoying. Basically, the "marine layer"—that thick fog the locals call "May Gray" or "June Gloom"—is making a guest appearance in January.
Here is the quick breakdown of what to expect:
- Early Week (Jan 18-20): Sunny to partly sunny. This is your "beach walk" window. Highs between 75°F and 66°F.
- Mid-Week (Jan 21-22): The clouds take over. Humidity jumps up to around 76%. It’ll feel heavy and a bit gloomy.
- The "Rain" Window (Jan 23): We’re looking at light rain. It won't be a monsoon, but it’ll be enough to make the 5 freeway a nightmare.
- Next Weekend (Jan 24-25): The sun fights back. We should see it clear up with highs returning to the mid-60s.
Honestly, the UV index is low (around a 2 or 3), so you probably won't burn, but the wind coming off the northwest at 5 to 8 mph means it’ll feel cooler than the thermometer says, especially near the water.
Why Locals Wear Parkas at 60 Degrees
If you see someone in a North Face puffer jacket when it’s 62°F, don’t laugh. They’re just acclimated.
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When the sun goes down in San Diego, the temperature craters. We’re talking drops from 75°F in the afternoon to 53°F by dinner time. That 20-degree swing is no joke. If you go out in shorts and a T-shirt for a sunset dinner at Seaport Village, you’re going to be miserable by the time the appetizers arrive.
The humidity is also sitting around 45% to 78% this week. High humidity at low temperatures makes that "damp cold" feel way more piercing than a dry cold in the desert.
Packing Tips for the Current 10-Day Window
- The Hoodie is King: Seriously. A mid-weight hoodie or a denim jacket is the unofficial uniform.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Flip-flops are great for the sand, but with temps hitting the low 50s at night, your toes will thank you for some sneakers.
- Light Rain Shell: For Friday’s expected drizzle, you don’t need a heavy raincoat, just something to break the wind and keep the mist off.
Beyond the Thermometer: The Ocean Factor
Don't even think about jumping in the water without a 4/3mm wetsuit. The Pacific is hovering around 59°F right now. That’s "breathtaking" in a way that involves your lungs seizing up.
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But, this is prime whale-watching season. The Gray Whales are migrating south to Baja, and the slightly choppy, cooler weather actually makes for some decent sightings if you can handle the boat ride. Just wear a beanie. The wind on the water is significantly sharper than it is at Balboa Park.
Actionable Next Steps for Your Visit
- Check the Hourly, Not Just the Daily: This week, the "high" might only last from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Before and after that, it’s significantly cooler.
- Plan Indoor Activities for Friday: If you were planning the San Diego Zoo or Safari Park, try to swap Friday for Sunday or Monday. Hit the Birch Aquarium or the museums in Balboa Park when the rain chance hits 35%.
- Watch for Morning Fog: If you’re driving near the coast (Point Loma, Del Mar), expect patchy dense fog through Monday morning. Visibility could drop below a quarter-mile.
- Hydrate: Even though it’s "cool," the offshore winds earlier this week were dry. Your skin will feel it.
San Diego weather is a game of layers. If you've got a sweater and a pair of sunglasses, you've basically conquered the 10 day weather san diego ca forecast. Just don't expect the 75-degree heatwave to stick around forever.