Day Trips from San Diego
← All San Diego day tripsDay Trips from San Diego: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of San Diego, CA. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
8 waterfalls near San Diego
Maidenhair Falls
California 92066, USA
Just 1 hr 43 min from San Diego, rated 5.0 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Three Sisters Falls Trailhead
Santa Ysabel, CA 92070
Just 1 hr 21 min from San Diego, rated 4.7 stars by 579 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Cedar Creek Falls Trailhead
Ramona, CA 92065
Just 53 min from San Diego, rated 4.7 stars by 504 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Switzer Falls Trail
Tujunga, CA 91042
Just 2 hrs 27 min from San Diego, rated 4.7 stars by 913 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Kitchen Creek Falls
CA 91962, USA
Just 53 min from San Diego, rated 4.7 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Green Valley Falls
California 91916, USA
Just 1 hr 4 min from San Diego, rated 4.7 stars by 121 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tenaja Falls
Murrieta, CA 92562
Just 1 hr 39 min from San Diego, rated 4.6 stars by 266 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ortega Falls
32806 Ortega Hwy., Lake Elsinore
Just 1 hr 30 min from San Diego, rated 4.3 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from San Diego
What are the best waterfalls near San Diego, CA?
The best waterfalls near San Diego range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near San Diego?
Some waterfalls near San Diego have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near San Diego?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near San Diego are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near San Diego?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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