Southern California has a reputation for beautiful sandy beaches, sun-soaked activities, and vibrant outdoor fun. But it’s also known for blistering heat that can take a toll on both the body and mental well-being. High temperatures and unhealthy levels of sun radiation can lead to dehydration, discomfort, sunburns, and even serious complications like heatstrokes. While sunshine is a big draw, when the heat gets too intense it’s important to avoid exposure and find solace in the shade.

Luckily, a big metropolis like San Diego offers plenty of ways to stay comfortable, active, and entertained, while being safe from the negative consequences of extreme heat. In today’s article, we outline smart ways to manage sweltering heat and stay cool in San Diego’s unforgiving climate. Let’s take a look at clever tips on how to cool down in hot weather. Some of these strategies could be a true health-saver that helps you feel fresh and protect your health when the weather becomes too hot for comfort.

How do you stay cool in the California heat?

Living in Southern California means embracing the sunny and warm weather year-round but it also means knowing when to stay indoors and avoid the dangerous aspects of too much sun and heat. If you’re wondering how to beat summer heat naturally, here are the things you should try:

1. Optimize your home for heat 

Whether it’s heat, hail, rain, or cold, our homes are our first refuge. In most cases, an AC unit is all you need to keep the extreme heat in front of your door. If you don’t have an AC or the funds to buy one now, fans and portable cooling units can be a decent makeshift solution. It’s also smart to invest in blinds and curtains that will prevent direct sunlight from entering your home during the warmest part of the day.

2. Dress appropriately

When the heat is on, always opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that will let the air circulate and let your skin breathe. Speaking of breathing, clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton and linen will aid your thermal comfort and help you stay cool. If you have to step out, remember to put sunglasses on and wear a wide-brimmed hat that covers your face and neck.

3. Stay hydrated

Out of all the things you need to keep in mind on a truly hot day is to drink plenty of fluids, preferably water. Plain water is the best thing to help your body cool down and maintain a normal body temperature. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, it’s important to keep your water intake consistent throughout the day. If you engage in exercise or sweat excessively, electrolyte-rich drinks like lemonade can help you feel fresh. Staying hydrated during the day is one of the most useful tips on how to keep cool in hot weather at night.

4. Pay attention to what you eat

During hot weather, your diet can make a big difference. Eating heavy, hot, or greasy meals in sweltering weather can raise your body temperature and cause you to feel weak or sick. One of the best suggestions on how to cool down in hot weather is to turn to hydrating foods like watermelons, oranges, peaches, cucumbers, tomatoes, salads, pineapples, and other fruits and veg that can nourish your body and keep you energized.

5. Take cooling breaks

If you have to work, have some obligations that are preventing you from lounging about, or just feel overheated at the moment, lie down in a cool, darkened room, and place a cold compress on your forehead. Taking a rest and cooling down your head will help your body regulate its temperature and prevent heat exhaustion.

What should you do to cool down during a heatwave?

Heatwaves happen when extremely hot days turn into a week. Since they last for a couple of days or more, it’s usually hard to find respite even in our homes. They can pose a serious health risk if you’re not aware of how to beat summer heat naturally. If you feel like there is no escaping the heat, here’s what you can do:

1. Water is your best friend

When the scorching sun just won’t let up, water is your savior. If you’re not using it for hydration, use it to take a cooling shower or a full bath. If you’re at work and this is not an option, you can splash your face with cold water a couple of times or soak up your neck and wrists to lower your body temperature. 

2. Take the soothing plunge

While during normal days, the beach is your sure bet to stay cool and beat the summer heat, during heatwaves and blazing days the first thing to do is stay inside and away from the sun. If you’re looking for an oasis that sits right on the shore, The Plunge in San Diego is an oasis where you can stay cool and active in a pleasant atmosphere while enjoying stunning ocean views. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls and a retractable roof, it allows you to enjoy fair, sunny weather without the oppressive heat running your day. If you don’t feel like swimming laps or working out in the gym, The Plunge has plenty of other fun activities for people of all ages and the whole family to enjoy.

3. Stay inside air-conditioned spaces

If you don’t feel like staying at home or the place has become too hot, take advantage of the public spaces with air conditioning. After a soothing session at The Plunge, you can visit one of San Diego’s numerous libraries, movie theaters, malls, or museums where you can spend a fun time while enjoying a break from the heat.

How to cool down in hot weather in San Diego, CA?

While the beach is out of the question during hot days due to high temperatures and dangerous UV radiation, The Plunge indoor swimming pool is a true heaven. Whether you’re looking for a place to hide from the sun, want to keep your kids entertained during a heatwave, or make sure that the elderly stay cool while it’s blazing hot, The Plunge offers a comfortable environment where you can stay fresh and active, or just cool, relaxed, and lounging.

Located right on the Mission Beach Boardwalk, The Plunge will let you enjoy the ocean views while staying safe from excessive heat. Just drop by and make a splash!