Ventura Cove Park: A Calm Bay Retreat
A family-friendly beach on Mission Bay with calm waters, perfect for swimming, picnics, and stunning sunset views.
Ventura Cove Park, nestled on the shores of Mission Bay in San Diego, offers a tranquil escape with its calm waters and sandy beach, making it an ideal spot for families and those seeking a relaxing day by the bay. Enjoy swimming, picnicking, and stunning sunset views in this picturesque park.
A brief summary to Ventura Cove Park
- 3209 Gleason Rd, San Diego, Mission Beach, California, 92109, US
- +1619-525-8213
- Visit website
- Monday 4 am-2 am
- Tuesday 4 am-2 am
- Wednesday 4 am-2 am
- Thursday 4 am-2 am
- Friday 4 am-2 am
- Saturday 4 am-2 am
- Sunday 4 am-2 am
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a parking spot and a good picnic location.
- Bring your own kayak or paddleboard to enjoy the calm waters of Mission Bay; rentals are also available nearby.
- Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the sun can be strong.
- Dogs are allowed on leash before 9 am and after 6 pm (April-October) or 4 pm (November-March).
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Mission Beach, take the MTS bus Route 8 towards 'Mission Beach'. Get off at the stop closest to Mission Blvd and Gleason Rd. From there, it's a short walk to Ventura Cove Park. A single ride on the MTS bus costs $2.50.
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Walking
From central Pacific Beach, head towards Mission Boulevard and walk south. Continue until you reach the intersection with Garnet Avenue. Continue straight, and you'll pass various shops and cafes along the way. After about 15-20 minutes of walking, you will arrive at the edge of Mission Bay. From here, turn left onto the boardwalk and follow it along the waterfront until you see Ventura Cove Park on your right side.
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Driving
From Interstate 8, take the Sports Arena Boulevard exit. Head towards Mission Beach. From Pacific Beach, take Mission Blvd south until you reach the junction with Gleason Rd. Turn left onto Gleason Rd, and you will find Ventura Cove Park at 3209 Gleason Rd. Parking is free in the large lot right in front of the park. If that lot is full, there are other parking lots off of Mariner's Way.
Discover more about Ventura Cove Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lifeguard Historical Landmark
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Crown Point
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Dog Beach
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Ocean Beach Veteran's Plaza
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Ocean Beach Pier
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Oriental Point
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Pacific Beach
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Crystal Pier
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Playa Pacifica Park
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Welcome to Mission Bay Park Sign
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Ocean Beach City Beach
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Law Street Beach
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Unmissable attractions to see
Mariner’s Point Park
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Bonita Cove
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Sunset Point Park
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Escapology
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Belmont Park
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Giant Dipper Roller Coaster
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Mission Beach Park
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The Plunge San Diego
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San Diego Whale Watch
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Mission Beach Blvd
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Surfrider Square
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Muscle Beach
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Mission Beach Boardwalk
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Brothers Sport Fishing
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Essential places to dine
Dockside 1953
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CEVICHES AND BEERS
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Luigi's At The Beach
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Coaster Saloon
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Cannonball
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Draft South Mission
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Beach House Tequila + Taqueria
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Kojack's Restaurant
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Miss B's Coconut Club
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The Mission - Mission Beach
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Beach Bus Diner
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Single Fin Surf Grill
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Voltaire Beach House
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OB Noodle House & Sake Bar
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Oceana Coastal Kitchen
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beach Hi
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Treasures by the Bay
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Gift Shop
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San Diego Trading Company
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Beach Trader
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Mission Beach Resort Wear
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BouTiki
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Ocean View
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Willow
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Robin Egg Gifts
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Vervor Shop
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Ananas Boardwalk
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Sandbar Sports Grill
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The Pennant Bar
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Northside Tavern
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The Tilted Stick Bar & Grill
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Lucy's Tavern
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Lahaina Beach House
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Cheswick's West
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Tony's Martini Bar
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Sunshine Company Saloon
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Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge
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Open Bar
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Captain's Quarters
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San Diego Happy Hour Spots Pacific Beach
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