Things to know about renting a boat in San Diego.

Oceanside, Mission Bay, and The Big Bay are the three harbors of San Diego. These also offer marina facilities, giving you the advantage of mooring your boat with ease. To explore San Diego waterways, rent a boat, take a private captained charter, or even go for scheduled excursions. With hundreds of boat listings available, GetMyBoat can offer you the best boat rental or charter for your travel needs. Renting a boat in San Diego is the best way to enjoy all that this city has to offer, seeing the stunning buildings from the perspective of the water. Not sure who to rent with in San Diego? Check out our post on our Top Harbor Cruises in San Diego.

Are you hosting a private event in San Diego? Why not have your venue be on a boat? Chartering a boat for private events is a great way to bring your guests together and deliver an experience they'll never forget. 

San Diego has many inland lakes and coastal beaches where you can rent small boats and kayaks. Paddle your way around on a kayak rental in San Diego to get an excellent workout while exploring the city. Stand-up paddleboards are also a unique way to get some exercise while on vacation in San Diego. 

Anglers on a trip to San Diego won't be disappointed if they book a fishing charter. Experience an incredible day on a trawler boat, reeling in great catches. An experienced fishing captain will take you to all the best spots where they're biting. Check out our Guide to Fishing in Southern California for more information on fishing in San Diego and nearby cities.

Pamper yourself by booking a dinner cruise in San Diego. Watch the sunset over the Pacific as you enjoy a meal and a glass of wine while the captain and crew sort out all the details.

For adventurous travelers in San Diego - consider booking a water sports experience or scuba diving. Scuba charters and fun activities like jet skiing, flyboarding, and shark diving are the perfect way to get an adrenaline rush while visiting San Diego. 

Ecotourism in San Diego is also a thriving industry. For an eco-tour, book a whale watching trip to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 

 If you are in a mood to go beyond San Diego, make sure to explore the waters of the adjoining places such as Leucadia, Coronado, Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Dana Point, and Newport Beach.

Make your way up the coast and visit the surrounding waters of Coronado, Leucadia, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Dana Point, and Newport Beach. Lake Perris and Big Bear Lake are popular freshwater boating areas near San Diego in Moreno Valley.

While on land in San Diego, be sure to check out the famous San Diego Zoo. It's one of the top things to experience while you're in the city.

Marinas in San Diego

Some of the top marinas in San Diego include Sunroad Resort Marina, Cabrillo Isle Marina, Glorietta Bay Marina & Yacht Club and Kona Kai Marina. The marinas are great places to go for boating advice, to watch yachts cruise in and out, and to explore while you're walking around in San Diego. There are lots of cool bars and restaurants nearby, and you can easily access the marinas from the city. 

About San Diego

With a pleasantly warm temperature, steady winds, and inviting waters, it is hard to escape the lure of the lively beachside town of San Diego. This beloved coastal city in Southern California is a favorite for many travelers making their way through the highlights of the state. Although many believe that the welcoming climate is the primary reason why people love this place, boating is easily a worthy contender. From a laidback recreational pursuit to more adventurous races, San Diego is a boating city. This pastime is further nurtured by the 70 miles of Pacific Ocean beaches that offer ample playground’ to practice the art of cruising.

The best time of year to visit San Diego is during September and October when the temperatures are still pleasant but the peak tourist season has passed. Summer is the perfect time for warm weather, it never reaches unbearable heat in San Diego, but travel will be more expensive in June - August in the city. 

To get to San Diego, catch a flight to its international airport, which is close to downtown. Renting a car is a good way to get around, but you can use the public transport system as well. You can also arrive by car on the major highways from other US Cities, or Amtrak train. 

Using GetMyBoat to Rent Your Next Boat in San Diego

Experiencing the water has never been easier thanks to GetMyBoat. GetMyBoat allows you to search quickly, compare prices, submit rental inquiries, and pay for your rental or charter from the convenience of your phone or computer. We offer a secure platform for renters to facilitate a seamless rental transaction. For boat owners, we connect millions of renters to their boat and provide the security and safe checks on each rental transaction.

Search for the perfect experience now and book your dream day out on the water.

Try other top experiences in San Diego

San Diego Fishing Charters

San Diego Jet Ski Rentals

San Diego Sailboat Rentals

San Diego Kayak Rentals

San Diego Scuba Diving Trip

San Diego Whale Watching

San Diego Boat Rental FAQs

How much is it to rent a boat in San Diego?

San Diego boat rental prices start at $75/hour for a small powerboat and can cost over $1000/hour for a private luxury yacht charter. There are many boats available at different price points to rent in San Diego.

When is the best time to visit San Diego?

The best time to visit San Diego is between March and May and September and November for fewer crowds and great deals. Summer is a good time to visit, but it can be busy and more expensive.

What are the best things to do by boat in San Diego?

There are many great boating experiences to have in San Diego. Some of the best include:

• Sailing charters
• Boat tours of Mission Bay and La Jolla
• Wildlife tours to see dolphins, sea lions, and more
• Hot tub cruising on hot tub boats
• Fishing charters from San Diego
• Pontoon boat rentals

What is the water temperature in San Diego?

The water around San Diego is cold, typically between 60-70℉, but it can be warmer in the summer months, 75℉ and higher.

Can you take a boat from San Diego to Coronado Island?

Yes, you can take a ferry or a private boat rental from San Diego to Coronado Island. Coronado Island is a great day trip by boat from San Diego.

What is the best month to go whale watching in San Diego?

The best month for whale watching in San Diego is December. Peak whale watching season runs from December through April. During these months, you’re most likely to see grey whales and humpback whales migrating with their calves.

How much does it cost to go whale watching in San Diego?

Whale watching tours in San Diego cost from $75/person on a group tour. Private boat tours for whale watching can cost between $100-$200/hour for an entire boat.