San Diego School Break Camps 2026-2027: Fall, Winter & Spring Guide

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This guide includes paid sponsorships. All listings are shared because we believe they're a great fit for San Diego families.
holiday break camps

When school’s out, camp’s in!

When school’s out, camp’s in! San Diego kids get a lot of days off throughout the school year, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving week, winter break, Presidents Day weekend, and spring break, and keeping them entertained (and out of your hair) during those stretches can be a challenge.

That’s where San Diego’s seasonal break camps come in. From fall break camps and Thanksgiving week programs to winter break camps over the holidays and spring break camps in March and April, San Diego has camps for nearly every interest: gymnastics, surfing, art, theater, STEM, animals, and more.

Whether your kids are looking for one-day drop-in camps or full week programs, this guide rounds up the best fall, winter, and spring break camps San Diego has to offer for the 2026-2027 school year.

Looking for something for the summer months instead? Check out our Ultimate Guide to San Diego Summer Camps for even more options.

2026 Summer + Holiday Break Camp Guide Presenting Sponsor

ride krew

Ride Krew
After School Mountain Biking Program

Ride Krew offers a supportive and skills-focused after school mountain biking program designed for kids aged 8+ who are comfortable riding a geared mountain bike on dirt trails. With small group sizes (just 8 riders per session), each participant receives personalized coaching while learning essential techniques like braking, gear shifting, trail scanning, cornering, climbing, and more.

The program blends fun, progression-based instruction with real trail rides to help kids build confidence and control on the bike. Each rider also receives a swag bag filled with gear and exclusive discounts.

Parents can choose to drop off or stay and watch the action!

how riders level up infographic

After-School Program Schedule:

  • Carlsbad~ After School Program: Sep 2, 2026 – Oct 28, 2026
    Alga Norte, 6565 Alicante Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92009
  • Clairemont~ After School Program: Sep 2, 2026 – Oct 21, 2026
    Tecolote Park, 5180 Tecolote Rd, San Diego, CA 92110
  • Rancho Penasquitos ~ After School Program: Sep 4, 2026 – Oct 23, 2026
    Rancho Penasquitos Ranch House, 12122 Canyonside Park Drive, San Diego, CA 92129
  • Escondido ~ After School Program: Sep 14, 2026 – Nov 9, 2026
    Lake Hodges, Sike’s Adobe, 12655 Sunset Dr, Escondido, CA 92025
holiday break camps

Gyminny Kids

Six Locations: La Jolla, Poway, 4S Ranch, Carlsbad, TRC Solana Beach and La Costa

Gyminny Kids camps are a great way for your children to socialize, exercise, and have fun! Their dynamic and state of the art facilities will allow campers to explore gymnastics, spend time in their Bungee Bouncer system, craft with their friends, and more!

More Info Coming Soon!

All reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance / No refunds

seaside arts center camps

Seaside Arts Center

Location: 11130 East Ocean Air Drive, Ste. C-105, San Diego, California 92130
Phone: 858-299-9038

Send your child to Seaside Arts Center during school breaks for Multi-Arts & Musical Theater Camps inspired by their favorite stories and musicals.

Unless noted otherwise below, camps run Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM. Each camp culminates in a small, in-studio performance for parents and families. Discounts: 10% off for Additional Siblings | 3% off for Payment by Cash/Check

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 12th
Addams Family Day Camp | 9am-3:30pm

Veterans Day Camp: November 11th
Cat in the Hat Day Camp | 9am-3:30pm

Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd – 25th
Great Pumpkin Thanksgiving Week Camp

Winter Break Week 1: December 20th-23rd
Toy Story Winter Break Camp

Winter Break Week 2: December 28th – 31st
Tangled Winter Break Camp

dynasty dance co

Dynasty Dance Co. Camps

Dynasty Dance Co.: ​6506 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, 92115
Phone: (619)363-2199

Designed to keep your children engaged and entertained during breaks, our camps feature a variety of activities including dance, STEM projects, and creative arts.

Full-day camps are weekdays from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with additional before and aftercare available.

More info coming soon!

fall camps

San Diego Junior Theatre

Balboa Park·1650 El Prado Suite 208, San Diego, 92101
Phone: (619) 239-1311

School may be out, but theatre is in! Elementary students are welcome to join us for fun-filled days rotating through classes in drama, music, dance and a specialty subject (improv, stage combat, design, etc). Whether your child is used to the spotlight or new to the stage, Junior Theatre’s camps have something for everyone! Camp days are from 9am-3pm. A detailed informational letter will be sent out the week prior to camps. Students should bring a sack lunch and two snacks.

Fall Camp: Nov 23 – 25th2026
Mon – Wed from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Fall Classes:
Junior Theatre’s fall session kicks off September 8! Space still available!

Untitled design (4)

Children’s Museum of Discovery Spring Camp 

Explore the growing garden this spring! Join the Children’s Museum of Discovery for a full week of outdoor exploration. Campers will enjoy learning how plants grow and thrive in the garden. Members: $325 | Non-Members: $375

Children’s Museum of Discovery: 320 N Broadway, Escondido, 92025

Full-week sign-ups only. 10% discounts for siblings. After Care available. Ages: 4 -8 years old. 1:10 adult-to-child ratio.

FALL Camp
November 23 – November 25

WINTER Camp
December 21 – December 23
December 28 – December 31

coastal kiddos camp

Coastal Kiddos

Location: Various Locations Near Encinitas or La Jolla
Phone: (858) 952-4129

Coastal Kiddos is an outdoor education and recreation program. We use games, activities, and lessons to teach children about the natural world. Our camp rotates locations and activities each meeting, so every session is something new.  ​ From the beaches to the chaparall and everything in between, Coastal Kiddos covers all the different ecosystems in the San Diego area. Weekly Rate: $500 | Drop-In Rate: $150

Full Day Camp: All Year Round (Holidays & Drop-ins) Single-day drop-ins to week-long nature explorations. Explore beaches, parks, and trails across San Diego. Perfect for kiddos or groups looking for a fun and educational outdoor experience. 

Day Camp
September 14, 2026– May 7, 2027

Labor Day
September 7, 2026 | Monday 9-2pm

 

camp surf

YMCA Camp Surf

Location: 560 Silver Strand Blvd, Imperial Beach, CA 91932

Spend your school break at the beach! Our trained staff foster confidence and connection through hands-on activities like arts and crafts, archery, the climbing tower, and group games. Campers enjoy a full day of outdoor fun and adventure — plus a nutritious lunch served daily in our oceanfront dining hall. Surfing and body boarding may be included in activities if weather and water conditions allow.

Fall & Winter Breaks
September 21-25, 2026
November 23-25, 2026

Spring Break 2027
March 22-26, 2027
March 29-April 2, 2027

Paintbox Art Studio

Location: 1101 Washington Pl, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: (858) 382-2696

Campers will work on 2 organized sew projects (kids will be able to insert their own flare, of course) and might just slime it up or do some cookie or Valentine decorating. Early drop-off and late pick up are available, and a week’s discount is available.

Full Day: 9am-3pm & Half Day: 9am- 12pm

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Monday, October 12th
Veterans Day Camp: Wednesday, November 11th
Thanksgiving Camp: Monday, November 23rd–Wednesday, November 25 + Friday, November 27th

Camp Jaycee at the Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center

Address: 4126 Executive Drive, San Diego, 92037
Phone: (858) 457-3030

School breaks are better at Camp Jaycee! Mark your calendar for days filled with friendship, adventure, and fun.

School’s Out Camp: Monday, October 12, 2026
Veterans Day Camp: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
Thanksgiving Camp: Monday, November 23–Wednesday, November 25, 2026
Winter Break Camp Week 1: Monday, December 21–Thursday, December 24, 2026
Winter Break Camp Week 2: Monday, December 28–Thursday, December 31, 2026
Winter Break One-Day Camp: Monday, January 4, 2027
Presidents Day Weekend Camp: Friday, February 12, 2027
Presidents Day Camp: Monday, February 15, 2027
Presidents Day Camp: Tuesday, February 16, 2027
School’s Out Camp: Monday, March 8, 2027
Spring Break Camp: Monday, March 29–Friday, April 2, 2027

Fleet Science Center

Location: 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (619) 238-1233

Your kids will experience exciting new adventures every day when they join our seasonal STEM Camps. They will have a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the fascinating world of science in a fun and engaging way. With a variety of activities and programs, STEM Camps offer diverse and enriching experiences.

Designed with a focus on inquiry and play, STEM Camps encourage children to investigate some of the most fascinating and exciting concepts in science. Your kids will have the chance to learn about everything from air pressure and electrical currents to life cycles and chemical reactions during their school breaks.

Details for Spring and Summer Camp 2027 will be available in January. Registration will open in February.

The Whole Child Learning Company

Three Locations:
Mission Hills: 4044 Lark St, San Diego, CA 92103
Bird Rock: 6063 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037
Kona Kai Resort: 1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106

The Whole Child Learning Company has so many fun and educational camp or workshop options, it’ll be tough to choose which one to have at your school!

Mission Hills Location
Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 12th
Veterans Day Camp: November 11th
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd–November 25th
Winter Break Camp Week 1: December 21–December 24, 2026
Winter Break Camp Week 2: December 28– December 31, 2026

La Jolla Location:
Labor Day: September 7th

Living Coast Discovery Center Wildlife Camp 

With options for Pre-K through 6th grade, we’ve got something for every wildlife enthusiast in the family. Our campers will spend their days exploring, learning about local wildlife and conservation, interacting with the animals that call the Living Coast their home, and so much more! View all camps here. Camp runs 9am-4pm.

Fall Camp: September 21st – 25th
Fall Camp: September 28th – October 2nd
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd – November 25th

KidWonder

Linda Vista Location: 5261 Linda Vista Road, San Diego 92110
Encinitas Location: 333 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA 92024
Pacific Beach Location: 929 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone:
(619) 432-4120

An action-packed schedule consisting of everything Ninja, Gymnastics, Team building, Arts Crafts, Outdoor Fun and More! KidWonder Camp is designed to give your child a great experience as they engage in American Ninja Warrior training, Gymnastics, Arts n Crafts, Capture the Flag, Team Building, Character Building and more.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 12th
Veterans Day Camp: November 11th
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd–November 25th
Winter Break Camp Week 1: December 21–December 24
Winter Break Camp Week 2: December 28– December 31

YMCA of San Diego County (YMCA)

While camp may look different this year at the YMCA, the fun, educational and energetic experience you’ve come to expect from our Y camps will remain the same. Children will enjoy a wide variety of activities for their child to explore, outdoor play, the opportunity to make friends, and peace of mind for working parents. Prices may vary depending on the camp.

Upcoming Camp Sessions (Varies by Location)

Labor Day: September 7th
Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 12th
Veterans Day Camp: November 11th
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd–November 25th
Winter Break Camp Week 1: December 21–December 24
Winter Break Camp Week 2: December 28– December 31

Locations: 13 YMCA Camp Locations

Coastal Roots “Farm” Camp

Location: Coastal Roots Farm, 441 Saxony Road, Encinitas, CA 92024
Phone: (760) 479-6505

Teaching kids where food comes from, why it matters, and how they can change the world. Spend school breaks on the Farm at Farm Camp! Welcome to Pre-K – 5th grade children of all backgrounds; at Farm Camp we explore the natural world, food system, and universally-meaningful Jewish values through cooking, crafts, and science experiments, visiting the chickens, harvesting farm-fresh snacks, singing, and more.

After-School Programs Available

Fall Break Camp: October 26-30
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23-25
Winter Camp: December 28-31

Helen Woodward Animal Center Critter Camps

Location:  6461 El Apajo Road, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Phone: 858-756-4117 ext. 318

Fall Critter Camps: October 20, 2025- October 24, 2025
Pre-K – 6th Grade

Winter Critter Camp: This winter break camp examines how animals adapt to cold weather, whether they migrate or stay put, and how they survive winter conditions with unique adaptations.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Critter Camp: This one-day camp fosters compassion for all living things, teaching campers about animals’ roles in the environment and encouraging empathy and kindness toward creatures that share our world.

February Critter Camp: This week-long President’s Day camp explores how animals communicate, build relationships, and adapt to their environments, fostering understanding, empathy, and conservation.

Spring Critter Camp: This spring break camp explores animal life during the season of renewal, from senses and eating habits to unique parenting styles. Campers will reflect on fostering compassionate relationships with animals and the planet.

 

Fulcrum Surf Camp

Grandview Beach: 1700 Neptune Ave, San Diego, 92024

Our five day surfing experience is now offered during Thanksgiving Break! Perfect for those looking to gift the fun of surfing for the holiday season. Don’t worry, we have the warmest wetsuits on offer and as always a 2 to 1 ratio!

Foam surfboard and wetsuit are provided. 

Thanksgiving Camp:
November 20th-24th
Time: 8:30am-12pm | Price for 5 days – $975

Christmas Camp:
December 20th-23rd
Time: 9:00-12:30 | Price for 4 days – $636

New Year’s Camp:
December 27th – 30th
Time: 8:30-12:00pm | Price is $636 for 4 days

Rogue Parkour Camps

Parkour Kids Camps are a great way to focus kids energy into FUN and FUNCTIONAL movements, while parents go to work or run errands. Parkour day camps are a great alternative to sitting around watching TV all day. Kids exercise and gain the valuable strength and mobility they need to live a safe and healthy life. Plus they get to make friends forever.

Rogue Parkour Camps are for all skill levels and ages 5 – 14!! Camp runs from 9:00am to 3:00pm. Extended care is available 8:00am to 5:00pm for an additional fee.

Turkey Day Camp: November 24th-26th
Winter Break Camps: December 20-24th & December 27th – 31st
Martin Luther King Jr. Camp: January 20th
Presidents Day Camp:
Spring Break Camp:

More info coming soon.

G3Kids Point Loma

Locations: Point Loma (Liberty Station)
Phone: (858) 333-9009

Our Children’s Summer and Seasonal Camps foster friendship, skills development, and happiness for your children. Our camps are unforgettable! Gymnastics, Ninja obstacle courses, teamwork games, art & crafts, and outdoors play. Our team provides an exciting day through active play, friendship building, social and emotional skill development, and energy burning fun!

Labor Day: September 7th
Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 12th
Veterans Day Camp: November 11th
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd–November 25th
Winter Break Camp Week 1: December 21–December 24
Winter Break Camp Week 2: December 28– December 31
News Years Day Camp: January 1st

San Diego Kroc Center

Location: 6845 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92115
Phone: (619) 269-1470

The Kroc Center provide programs that offer a variety of life-changing opportunities for people of all ages in the areas of sports, fitness, arts, education, and personal and spiritual enrichment. They offer traditional and specialty camp programs.

Regular Camp Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday
Drop Off: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM, Monday – Friday

Pick Up: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM, Monday – Friday

Labor Day: September 7th
Indigenous Peoples’ Day: October 12th
Veterans Day Camp: November 11th
Thanksgiving Camp: November 23rd–November 25th
Winter Break Camp Week 1: December 21–December 24
Winter Break Camp Week 2: December 28– December 31
News Years Day Camp: January 1st

Back 2 Rock

Bach to Rock Rancho Penasquitos
13185 Black Mountain Road #1, San Diego, CA 92129
858-298-3681

Bach to Rock Carlsbad
1820 Marron Road, Suite 112, Carlsbad, CA 92008
442-232-4092

Whether you have a budding rock star (ages 4-7) or an intermediate band player (7+) this local Encinitas camp will be singing their tune. Your musical camper will learn to play and appreciate music at a whole new level. Camp runs 9:30am-1pm.

Offering Fall, Winter, and Spring Break Camp Options!

Camp CaHiTo

Balboa Park:·3101 Balboa Drive, San Diego, 92101=
Phone: (619) 291-8985

Camp CaHiTo day camps in Balboa Park have various themes to choose from and different activities each day; activities include hiking, archery, arts and crafts, sports, singing, swimming and much more. Children must be at least 5-year’s old of age to attend Traditional Day Camps. Is your camper between the ages of 3-5? If so our Little Stars Program for campers under 5-year old is for them.

Alpine Acres Sanctuary Farm
 

Alpine:·5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine, CA 91901
Phone: (619) 320-4942

Shadow our experienced animal keepers for the entire day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in the intimacy of your private group with up to 3 children. You will have the opportunity to help your keeper with their duties while interacting, at length, with all our animals. Something new is always happening at the Farm – no day is the same.

Their weekly camps run Monday through Friday from 9AM to 5PM.

3-Day Week: $495 per week
5-Day Week: $695 per week

Sew Inspired

Laura’s Sew Inspired Home Studio: 202 Aurora Ave, San Diego, 92078

Our 1-day Saturday camps are geared for NEVER-SEWN-BEFORE little seamsters and for our on-going creative guys and gals. 1-Day Camps $105 Please bring a lunch. We make a variety of seasonal projects for each and every camp! Bring a sack lunch!

 

Little Fish Art Camp

Location: 6822B El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, CA 92115
Phone: (619) 356-1103

If you have a teen or pre-teen that loves mangas, comic books, art and storytelling, check out Little Fish Art Camps. The camps are specialized, highly engaging experiences designed to inspire young artists. Ages 7-11. Camp runs 9am-3pm.

Kidz Comic Camps
12/21/26 – 12/23/26
12/28/26 – 12/30/26

Dungeons & Dragons And Comics Camps
12/21/26 – 12/23/26
12/28/26 – 12/30/26

East County Surf Soccer Club

East County Surf Fall & Winter Camps are designed for the benefit of all Staff, Players & Parents, and are open to all players from all clubs! Camp runs from 9am – 12:30pm.

Spring Break Camps: 

Session One: April 3rd – 6th
Santee Town Center Park: 550 Park Center Dr., Santee, Ca 92071

Session Two: April 10th – 14th
Hillsdale Middle School: 1301 Brabham St., El Cajon, CA 92019

Monart School of Art

Location: 2590 Truxtun Rd #204, San Diego, CA 92106
CALL: 619.222.DRAW

Monart & APT 4 Music have teamed up to provide 10am to 3pm coverage over the holiday breaks in these fun and educational art & music workshops! Have your kids get creative over the holiday break, recording music together as a group and making several beautiful works of art inspired by the holiday season.

FALL ART DAY CAMP
NOVEMBER 24 – 26 / MON – WEDS
AGES 9-12 / 9AM – 12PM / $198
AGES 6-8 / 1PM – 3PM / $132

WINTER ART DAY CAMP # 1
DECEMBER 22 – 23 / MON – WEDS
AGES 9-12 / 9AM – 12PM / $198
AGES 6-8 / 1PM – 3PM / $132

WINTER ART DAY CAMP # 2
DECEMBER 29 – 31 / MON – WEDS
AGES 9-12 / 9AM – 12PM / $198
AGES 6-8 / 1PM – 3PM / $132

Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego Break Camps

When is fall break for San Diego schools in 2026?

Fall break dates vary by school district, but most San Diego schools observe breaks around Indigenous Peoples’ Day (October 12), Veterans Day (November 11), and Thanksgiving week (November 23-27). Check with your specific district for exact dates.

How much do holiday break camps cost in San Diego?

Pricing varies widely depending on the camp and activity type. Day camps typically range from $100 to $200 per day or $300 to $700 per week, with specialty programs (like surf camps or private studio camps) sometimes running higher. Many camps offer sibling discounts.

Do San Diego break camps offer before and aftercare?

Many camps on this list offer early drop-off and late pickup for an additional fee, which is especially helpful for working parents. Check each camp’s individual listing above for specific hours and extended care availability.

What ages are San Diego break camps typically for?

Most camps on this list serve kids from preschool age (3-5) through middle school (up to age 14, and sometimes 17/18), though age ranges vary by camp. Look for the specific age range listed under each camp above.

How far in advance should I book a break camp in San Diego?

Popular camps, especially around Thanksgiving and winter break, tend to fill up quickly. Booking 4-6 weeks in advance is recommended, though some camps allow last-minute or drop-in registration.

Keep checking back as we will be updating this list!!

Want to add your holiday camp or after-school program to this list? Email Niki@sandiegomoms.com/.