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Vacation Isle Park: A Mission Bay Retreat

Escape to Vacation Isle Park in Mission Bay for serene beaches, grassy fields, model boat races, and stunning San Diego views.

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Vacation Isle Park, nestled in the heart of San Diego's Mission Bay, offers a serene escape with grassy expanses, sandy beaches, and picturesque bay views. Divided into east and west sections, the park provides a variety of recreational activities and a relaxing atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Vacation Isle Park

  • Monday 4 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 4 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 4 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 4 am-10 pm
  • Friday 4 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 4 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 4 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a parking spot.
  • Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal on the grassy areas or beaches.
  • Check the San Diego Argonauts' schedule to catch a model boat race.
  • Pack marshmallows for a bonfire in the designated fire rings.
  • Note that dogs are not allowed in the park between 9 AM and 6 PM from April 1st to October 31st, and after 4 PM in the winter.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Vacation Isle Park via public transportation, take the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) bus. Several bus routes serve the area, including routes 8 and 9. Look for routes that stop at Ingraham Street and Vacation Road. From there, it's a short walk to the park. A one-way fare is typically $2.50. Check the MTS website or app for current schedules and routes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer a convenient way to reach Vacation Isle Park. From downtown San Diego, a taxi ride typically costs between $25 and $35. Note that prices may vary depending on traffic and demand. Taxi stands are located at many hotels and attractions.

  • Walking

    If you are staying at Paradise Point Resort & Spa, North Cove Beach, or Ski Beach, Vacation Isle Park is easily accessible by walking. Follow the pathways along the island to reach the park's grassy areas and beaches. The park is located on the southern end of Vacation Isle.

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Discover more about Vacation Isle Park

Vacation Isle Park, a gem within San Diego's Mission Bay Park, is a destination offering relaxation and recreation. This park is divided into two halves, East and West, separated by a unique feature: a model yacht pond. Vacation Isle East and West both feature wide grassy areas perfect for picnics, frisbee, or cornhole. Sandy beaches line the park, inviting sunbathers to soak up the rays. Fire rings dot the sand, providing safe spots for bonfires, a popular nighttime activity in San Diego. Shade trees offer respite from the sun, and Vacation Isle East even has a gazebo with picnic tables that may be reserved for larger gatherings. The beaches at Vacation Isle Park offer limited water access due to a rocky barrier. However, they provide stunning views of SeaWorld San Diego and Downtown San Diego. Strolling along the sand to watch the clouds or birds is a favorite pastime. The pond between the east and west sections of the park is a unique draw, used for racing model yachts and sailboats. Enthusiasts bring their hand-crafted, remote-controlled boats for races, which are a marvel to watch. The San Diego Argonauts, a hobby group, has a calendar of events for those interested in planning a visit around the races. Originally, much of Mission Bay was marshland fed by the San Diego River. In the mid-20th century, the area was transformed into the Mission Bay aquatic park, with Vacation Isle created as part of this development. Today, Vacation Isle Park stands as a testament to this transformation, offering a blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

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