Visitors and residents alike come to California’s coastal towns to rest, relax, and recharge in the area’s year-round warmth and sun. Enjoy fun in the sun and on the water and make a list of upcoming boating events in the San Diego area you’d like to attend this year. Make sure to plan your trip to include some time at any of these fun events in 2024. 

Bart Hall Sports Show 

Formerly known as the Fred Hall Sport Show, the show debuted its new name: Bart Hall Sports Show, last year. It’s still the longest running, oldest on-land show in San Diego. You’ll also choose from the largest selection of fishing tackle, destination travel exhibits, as well as hunting and shooting exhibits. The event is great for all ages, and also includes a long list of seminars and free activities to enjoy. The show takes place February 15-18, 2024 at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd in Del Mar. 

Day at the Docks 

Considered a San Diego sportfishing tradition, it’s also the West Coast’s largest public celebration of the sport. The show marks the start of California’s saltwater fishing season. It highlights some of the best of the best in the sportfishing boat fleet on San Diego Bay. The event features fishing seminars, a kids’ fishing adventure, casting contests, and more. Go for a boat ride around the bay or explore the boats during the boat “open house.” This year’s event has not yet been scheduled, but it typically occurs in March. 

Coastal Social 2024 North Tournament 

The organization hosts tournaments in San Diego and Long Beach in an effort to bring fun and engaging fishing activities to Southern California. With a focus on conservation efforts, participation fees go toward good causes like angler rights, fisheries research, fish tagging, rebuilding populations with artificial reefs, and more. Events do not have a cash payout, but sponsors offer unique and generous prizes. The 2024 San Diego event takes place April 13 at the 22nd Street Landing in San Diego. CCA member entry is $50, and non-member entry is $90. There are divisions for boaters as well as kayakers. 

Mission Bay Bass Tournament 

Hosted by the Mission Bay Marlin Club, the event takes place on Mission Bay in the spring. Sign up for your division and be ready to cast a line in search of fun and your next big fish story. The event is slated for April 20-21, 2024. More details will be available soon. 

San Diego International Boat Show 

If you are in the market for a new vessel yourself, of just want to see what might be coming to the inventory of Carefree Boat Club, make the show a part of your plans. You’ll see over 150 vessels from over 30 boat builders and brokerages. Get a first look at luxury yachts, powerboats, and more, all with the latest maritime technology. There will even be some “on-land” vendors offering a look at some of the newest ways to outfit a vessel. The show is slated for June 20-23, 2024 at 955 Harbor Island Drive in San Diego. Admission prices have yet to be set. 

San Diego Bayfair 

Taking place on Mission Bay, it’s the region’s largest annual beach festival and powerboat competition. The festival celebrates boating with live music, vendors, and some of the fastest powerboats in the world. This year’s event takes place September 13-15, 2024. 

Dock & Dine 

With all of the boating and event fun, don’t forget to slow down and fuel up from time to time. Take advantage of the many area restaurants that allow you to participate in the unique “dock & dine” experience. Pull up to the dock and enjoy great food and drinks, sometimes right on board your own vessel! Slips are typically available in 2- to 3-hour slots if you prefer to dine inside an establishment. Those who don’t want to miss any time out on the water can make a to-go order and have a delicious fresh meal aboard as you head out to sea again. 

Holiday Events 

While colder-weather climates parade through the streets, San Diego guests and residents parade through the water. There are several towns and companies that offer boat parades and other festivities to celebrate the holiday season. Some companies even offer New Years Eve cruises that include dinner and a prime spot for watching the fireworks at midnight. Watch for the 2024 event schedule sometime later this year. 

Best Boating Events and Experiences in San Diego 

Have your boating bases covered – along with some others you might not have thought of – with a membership to the Carefree Boat Club. We have the boat you need when you need it.  

Avoid the hit-and-miss availability of small rental companies, as well as the hassles like storage, maintenance, trailering, covering, cleaning, or extra fees like insurance and mooring that come with owning and transporting your own boat. Reserve a boat for boater events in San Diego and it will be ready for your use each time you show up at our marina during your reservation period. 

Contact us today!