The Best 4th of July Fireworks Shows in San Diego

4th of July in San Diego is here…can you feel it? That’s right, it’s the smell of barbecues firing up, the sound of kids splashing in the surf, and the scent of freedom in the air. It’s that time of year again when we gather together to celebrate America’s birthday, San Diego-style.

When it comes to the 4th of July, San Diego doesn’t mess around. In fact, San Diego’s 4th of July was named one of the five best 4th of July celebrations in the United States!

It wasn’t really a fair competition, because we’ve got secret weapons: a military community that’s as strong as it is patriotic, beaches, and perfect weather—other communities can’t match that combo!

Which means San Diego on the 4th is like a Michael Bay movie with better acting: beaches, bikinis, and big, beautiful, must-watch fireworks.

So come along as we guide you through where to find the best 4th of July fireworks displays our city has to offer.

Early Bird 4th of July Fireworks in San Diego

Mission Bay 3rd of July Fireworks

Escape the 4th of July crowds and bask in the glow of this spectacular fireworks display, set to commence at 9 PM. Whether you prefer a cozy spot on the bay or viewing from the comfort of your own home, gather your loved ones and prepare for an abundance of ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs.’

Experience the awe-inspiring fireworks show from the best vantage points along the picturesque Mission Bay shoreline:

Sunset Point Park
Mission Bay Beach Club
Crown Point
Ski Beach
Bonita Cove
Mariner’s Point
Mission Point
Model Yacht Pond
Vacation Isle
Ventura Cove

If you have a boat, this is the perfect time to get out on the water and watch the show from your own vessel. Whether you’re with family, friends, or enjoying the event solo, this section of the bay is perfect for coming together and celebrating this cherished tradition.

Oceanside 3rd of July Fireworks

In celebration of Independence Day and the 137th anniversary of the City’s incorporation, the Oceanside Parks and Recreation Department will host an incredible fireworks display on July 3 at 9 PM in the heart of Oceanside at the SoCal Soccer Complex at El Corazon (3300 El Corazon Drive).

In addition to fireworks, the event will feature family-friendly crafts, lawn games, musical entertainment, and food trucks. Gates open at 4 PM, and parking will be available at the SoCal Soccer lot for $15 per car (gates close at 8:30 PM for incoming cars).

For more information, click here.

Over-the-Top 4th at The Manchester Grand Hyatt

A perfect jumping-off point to explore America’s Finest City in the sweet summertime, Manchester Grand Hyatt offers the best in destination exploration and accommodations for the 4th of July this year.

We recommend that you head to Coronado Island on the ferry to enjoy one of the most charming parades in San Diego, complete with decorated bicycles and floats along the waterfront.

After a festive day at the beach, head back to the top of the Hyatt to catch 360-views of the firework displays, specialty cocktail in hand.

The Biggest 4th of July Fireworks In San Diego

The Big Bay Boom

This is California’s largest fireworks show! The Big Bay Boom fireworks show is displayed from four barges on San Diego Bay at 9 PM. Bring your lawn chairs to watch from these locations:

Red, White & BOOM! at InterContinental San Diego

From 4 PM to 10 PM, enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring live entertainment by Kat Hall Trio and Sandollar, fun activities for all ages, and panoramic views of San Diego Bay—culminating in the city’s best view of the iconic Big Bay Boom fireworks show.

Choose from General Admission, GA+, or VIP tickets—each offering exclusive perks and tiered access. Indulge in food and beverage concessions, soak in the festive atmosphere, and feel the vibrant energy of the waterfront.

Get your tickets here.

The Longest 4th of July Fireworks Show in San Diego

SeaWorld’s Fireworks

We get it…for some of you, one night of fireworks just isn’t enough!

SeaWorld doesn’t just celebrate with fireworks on the 4th…they have fireworks on select nights until September 2, with special celebrations on July 3 and 4. They have all kinds of fun options to view the shows in style—get all of the details here.

The Beachiest 4th of July Fireworks in San Diego

Imperial Beach 4th of July Fireworks

Honestly, you can watch the fireworks from most beaches in the San Diego area and have a great show.

But the Imperial Beach 4th of July fireworks show hosts approximately 90,000 attendees coming out for the free event from Imperial Beach and surrounding South Bay communities, making it a particularly big and festive event.

The show kicks off at 9 PM from the iconic pier. Best viewing is on the beach from Imperial Beach Blvd. to Palm Avenue, facing the end of Portwood Pier.

Be sure to stick around after the fireworks display for music at Imperial Beach Pier Plaza.

The Most Festive 4th of July Fireworks in San Diego

The San Diego County Fair Fireworks Spectacular

For you fireworks buffs, here are some fun statistics on the San Diego County Fair’s Fireworks Spectacular: The show includes more than 3,600 aerial display counts, with 500 shells in the Grand Finale alone!

These aren’t wimpy fireworks either—shells are up to 8″ and include titanium flash salutes, color-changing aerial displays, distinctive and unique display shells, and the popular streaking comets and tiger tails.

And, it’s all taking place at the most spectacular setting for a county fair in America!

Get details and tickets here.

The Kid-Friendliest 4th of July Fireworks in San Diego

Red, White and BOOM! at Legoland California

Summer heats up at Legoland California Resort with a star-spangled 4th of July celebration: Red, White & BOOM!

Families can enjoy special limited-time treats, fun lawn activities, and DJ dance parties that will have everyone on their feet. End the night with an unforgettable fireworks display that explodes into 3D Lego bricks right before your eyes with special viewing glasses!

There are special extended park hours to celebrate and enjoy the fireworks spectacular, as well as 4th of July-themed entertainment throughout the resort—all included in the cost of regular Park admission.

Get details and tickets here.