Five Places to See San Diego in Bloom

Spring showers will bring May flowers this year. During years where there is an unusual amount of rain, an explosion of wildflowers is likely to follow. This year, a super bloom may occur in California, which makes it the perfect time to visit various fields and gardens located near San Diego. 

Here are five places to see San Diego in bloom this spring: 

1. Balboa Park

Distance from Point Loma Nazarene University: 16 min

When: March to May 

Where: San Diego, CA

A place to see spring flowers that is a little closer to PLNU is Balboa Park. Visit several gardens located in the park with an assortment of blooms. Walk through the Zoro Butterfly Garden or take a stroll through Alcazar Garden. 

2. Carlsbad Flower Fields

Distance from PLNU: 40 min 

When: Mid-March to mid-April

Where: 5704 Paseo Del Norte, Carlsbad

Find an assortment of flowers here and 55-acres of Giant Tecolote Ranunculus, which is a rare species of flowers that can grow up to 10 to 12 inches tall. Tickets cost $22 for adults, and parking is free. Enjoy taking photos in the fields or adventuring through the sweet pea maze. 

3. Walker Canyon, Lake Elsinore, CA

Distance from PLNU: 1 hr 19 min 

When: Late Feb. to early April 

Where: 27200 Lake St, Lake Elsinore, CA 92530

Hike the Walker Canyon trail to see orange poppies covering the hills during a super bloom. Visit the trails on a weekday if you want to avoid large crowds. 

4. Julian Daffodils 

Distance from PLNU: 1 hr 21 min 

When: Mid-Feb. to early March 

Where: 4381 Julian Hwy, Santa Ysabel, CA 92070

Stop by Julian Farm and Orchard to pick from their selection of daffodils and participate in activities such as a petting zoo, rock-climbing wall, axe throwing, hayrides and more. General Admission is $10 per person.  

5. Anza Borrego Desert State Park 

Distance from PLNU: 1 hr 54 min 

When: Feb. to April 

Where: State Park in Borrego Springs, CA

Choose one of the many hikes in this state park to see a variety of desert wildflowers, cacti blooms, bushes, agaves and yuccas. This is one of the most popular spots to see a super bloom in the Southern California area.

As you visit these places, keep in mind to be respectful and leave nature as you found it. Please do not pick the wildflowers and avoid stepping on them as you wander through the fields.  

Enjoy visiting these sites to see super blooms, and make the most of exploring the outdoors this spring. 

Written By: Isabel Cheeseman