Taking a hot air balloon ride over San Diego is an exciting and breathtaking way to get a unique perspective of the area from the air!
Soaring high above, you’ll see views of the city, coastline, and mountains that you just can’t experience in any other way.
I hesitate to use such a strong word as ‘epic’, but I personally think the thrill of a hot air balloon ride as the sun crests the hills in the early morning or as it sets over the Pacific Ocean at dusk is a world-class experience.
I ask you to imagine floating over the city with your family or loved one and just how that would feel.
You’ll certainly gain a new appreciation for the city’s beauty and make a memory that could be the highlight of your trip. I can assure you that you won’t soon forget such an experience!
Hot Air Ballon Ride Coming to An End
How Long Do Hot Air Balloon Rides Last?
Hot air balloon rides usually last several hours to give you a full aerial tour of the San Diego area. During the ride, your pilot and other members of the flight team will be available to answer questions you have while keeping you safe and comfortable.
San Diego balloon rides usually depart at sunrise or sunset for the best possible views of the surrounding landscapes.
Hot Air Ballon Landed at Sunset
Sunrise or Sunset?
That was a perfect transition into a common question I get asked which is, ‘Should you take a sunrise or sunset balloon ride?’
My simple answer is, ‘It depends.’
Both tours offer beautiful views, so the best one for you will depend on your preferences.
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Rides
Sunrise hot air balloon rides start early!
At dawn you can expect dew in the fields and pinks and oranges in the sky as the sun peeks over the mountains to the east. But with such an early start, you’ll probably want to grab a hotel for the night before the ride.
I’ll give you a more detailed hotel suggestion with each hot air balloon tour I cover below, but as a shortcut, opt for the Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas if you choose to sail from the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Stay at the Omni La Costa if a coastline ride from Del Mar is your speed.
And I suggest The Fin Boutique Hotel which provides easy access to the Oceanside beaches, a swanky boutique design and a straight shot into Temecula for the hot air balloon options there!
Sunset Hot Air Balloon Rides
If you’re not an early riser like me, perhaps a sunset hot air balloon ride might be the best choice for you.
I personally love watching the hot air balloons sail over the Pacific Ocean coastline in Del Mar in the evening, and that’s just from the ground!
With a sunset hot air balloon ride and the blue skies and low humidity you’re bound to get with most days in San Diego, you just might experience one of the most incredible sunsets you have ever seen!
Aerial View Looking North at Del Mar City Beach
Are Hot Air Balloon Rides Worth It?
In my opinion, the answer is, ‘Absolutely’!
You can expect spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, a breathtaking and serene experience as you travel along the beautiful coastline plus unmatched views of the city. And you’ll get to experience all of that while surrounded by the pink, gold, and orange hues of sunset or sunrise.
Many companies offer private tours as well, if you’re looking for a more romantic setting, so if you’d like a ride for just you, your loved one and a pilot or the flight team, be sure to ask!
Fun fact! We even featured hot air balloon rides in our Unique Things to Do in San Diego article!
Ready to Make New Friends?
If you’re taking a group ride, prepare to make friends while on your trip. Hot air balloons are quite small, so you will likely end up in close proximity to other guests.