Mission Bay is the ultimate vacation destination located in sunny San Diego. With 27 miles of pristine beaches and endless things to do in Mission Bay for outdoor fun, it’s no wonder that tourists flock here year-round. If you’re planning a trip to Mission Bay, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to see and do. From thrilling roller coasters to relaxing beach days, here are a few must-see attractions in Mission Bay, San Diego.
Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, explore nature, or embark on an exciting adventure, Mission Bay has got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top things to do in Mission Bay, San Diego, that will make your visit unforgettable.
Belmont Park
Located right on the beach, Belmont Park is the perfect spot for family-friendly fun. You’ll find a historic wooden roller coaster, carnival games, and classic amusement park rides like bumper cars and a carousel here. After working up an appetite, grab a bite at one of the many restaurants serving delicious beach fare. And don’t forget to try some classic arcade games before returning to the beach.
Mission Bay Golf Course
Golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss out on a round or two at the beautiful Mission Bay Golf Course. This course is a golfer’s paradise with stunning views of the bay and challenging holes. After your game, stop by the clubhouse for a refreshing drink or bite to eat while taking in the picturesque scenery.
Play Beach Volleyball
With miles of sandy beaches, Mission Bay is the perfect spot for some friendly competition on the sand. Grab your friends or make some new ones and join in on a game of beach volleyball. With the ocean breeze and warm sun, it’s the ideal way to spend an afternoon.
SeaWorld San Diego
No trip to Mission Bay is complete without a visit to the world-famous SeaWorld. Get close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, sharks, and more at this top-rated marine theme park. Catch a one-of-a-kind show featuring killer whales, or take a thrilling ride on the Manta roller coaster. And don’t forget to check out the newest addition, the Sesame Street Bay of Play, which is perfect for younger visitors.
Mission Bay Aquatic Center
Looking for some water-based activities? Look no further than the Mission Bay Aquatic Center. Rent a paddleboard, kayak, or sailboat and explore the bay’s calm waters. Or take a lesson from one of their experienced instructors and learn how to windsurf or wakeboard.
Bayfront Resorts
After all that adventure, you’ll need time to relax and recharge. Luckily, Mission Bay is home to several beautiful bayfront resorts offering luxurious amenities such as private beaches, pools, spas, and more. Spend the day lounging by the pool or on the beach and take in the stunning views of Mission Bay.
Mission Bay Beaches
Of course, no trip to Mission Bay is complete without a day at one of its many gorgeous beaches. Whether you prefer swimming, sunbathing, or building sandcastles, you’ll find the perfect spot on one of Mission Bay’s beaches. And with amenities like picnic areas, fire pits, and restrooms, it’s easy to spend the whole day enjoying the sun and sand.
Nighttime Golf
Looking for a unique after-dark experience? Look no further than nighttime golf at Belmont Park. Hit the links under the stars on their glow-in-the-dark mini golf course. With neon lights and upbeat music, it’s the perfect way to end a day in Mission Bay.
Duffy Electric Boat
For a more leisurely and intimate experience on the bay, rent a Duffy electric boat. These eco-friendly boats offer a quiet cruise around Mission Bay while you take in the sights and sounds of the water. With room for up to 12 people, it’s the perfect activity for a group outing.
Tranquil Bay
When you step foot on Mission Bay, you’ll immediately feel a sense of tranquility and peace. The calm waters, gentle breeze, and picturesque surroundings make it the perfect place to relax and unwind. Stroll along Tranquil Bay and soak in the stunning views of sailboats, palm trees, and the San Diego skyline. Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a peaceful lunch by the bay.
Mission Beach Boardwalk
Look no further than the Mission Beach Boardwalk for those looking for fun in the sun. This 3-mile boardwalk has endless activities that will keep you entertained all day. Rent a bike and cruise along the boardwalk, play a game of beach volleyball, or simply lay out on the sand and soak up some rays. And don’t forget to stop by one of the many beachfront restaurants for a refreshing drink or delicious meal.
Sail Bay
Sail Bay is another beautiful Mission Bay spot with stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to go for a swim, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax by the water’s edge, Sail Bay is the perfect place to do it all. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot some playful dolphins swimming in the bay.
Mission Bay
No trip to Mission Bay is complete without getting out on the water. With over 27 miles of coastline, Mission Bay offers a variety of water activities for all ages and skill levels. From jet skiing and wakeboarding to kayaking and paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try surfing or parasailing?
California Gray Whale Migration
If you’re visiting Mission Bay between December and April, catch a glimpse of the spectacular California Gray Whale migration. These majestic creatures can be seen making their way down to Mexico in search of warmer waters. You can join a whale-watching tour or grab a spot on one of the many beachfront lookouts for an unforgettable experience.
Kelp Forest
Visiting the Kelp Forest in Mission Bay is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This underwater wonderland is home to diverse marine life, including sea lions, leopard sharks, and even dolphins. You can explore the kelp forest by snorkeling, scuba diving, or taking a guided kayak tour.
Tecolote Shores Park
With over 2.5 miles of walking and biking trails, Tecolote Shores Park is the perfect place to get in touch with nature. This park is home to various wildlife, including birds, rabbits, and coyotes. Pack a picnic, bring your binoculars, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
Mission Bay Camping
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Mission Bay, camping is the way to go. The shoreline of Mission Bay offers several campgrounds with stunning waterfront views. Wake up to the sound of waves crashing and spend the day exploring all that Mission Bay has to offer.
Bonita Cove Park
Bonita Cove Park is a quiet, secluded spot in Mission Bay where you can escape the crowds and enjoy peace and quiet. This park offers beautiful views of Sail Bay, picnic areas, and a playground for children. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of activities.
Red Marlin Restaurant & Terrace
After a long day of exploring, there’s nothing better than sitting down to enjoy a delicious meal with a view. The Red Marlin Restaurant & Terrace offers mouthwatering seafood dishes with stunning views of Mission Bay. Indulge in fresh local seafood, sip on a craft cocktail, and watch the sunset over the bay.
Sportfishing Charter
Mission Bay offers some of the best sportfishing for fishing enthusiasts in Southern California. Hop on a sportfishing charter and spend the day on the open waters. From yellowtail to tuna, there’s always a chance to reel in the big catch.
Sail a Catamaran
Last, why not take to the bay on a catamaran? This unique experience allows you to see Mission Bay from a different perspective. You can either rent a catamaran and sail yourself or join one of the many catamaran tours available. Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder Mission Bay is a top destination for tourists and locals alike. Whether you prefer relaxing by the bay or seeking new adventures, add these things to do in Mission Bay, San Diego, to your itinerary.
