Mission Bay Park: San Diego's Aquatic Playground
Discover San Diego's Mission Bay Park: A vast aquatic playground with beaches, water sports, and endless recreational activities for all ages.
Mission Bay Park, the largest aquatic park of its kind in the U.S., offers a myriad of recreational activities on its 4,235 acres of land and water. Developed from a tidal marsh in the 1940s-60s, it now boasts 27 miles of shoreline, perfect for water sports, picnics, and family fun.
A brief summary to Mission Bay Park
- QQ7F+JF, San Diego, California, 92109, US
- +1760-277-4815
- Visit website
- Monday 4 am-12 am
- Tuesday 4 am-12 am
- Wednesday 4 am-12 am
- Thursday 4 am-12 am
- Friday 4 am-12 am
- Saturday 4 am-12 am
- Sunday 4 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as shade can be limited in some areas of the park.
- Take advantage of the many picnic areas and barbecue grills available throughout the park for a fun day out.
- Consider renting a boat or kayak to explore the bay's waterways and islands.
- Check the park's event calendar for festivals, races, and other activities happening during your visit.
- If you're bringing your dog, remember that they are only allowed on Fiesta Island.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From San Diego International Airport (SAN), the most economical way to reach Mission Bay Park is via public transportation. Take the direct bus from Terminal 1 Rental Car Shuttle to Old Town Transit Center; these services depart every 15 minutes and the journey takes about 23 minutes. From there, you can connect to other bus routes or cable car lines to reach specific destinations within Mission Bay Park. A single ride costs $2.50.
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Ride Share
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient transportation from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Mission Bay Park. The average cost for a ride is around $31, and the journey typically takes about 18 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
Once you're within Mission Bay Park, walking is a great way to explore the area. There are numerous pedestrian paths and walkways that connect the various attractions and beaches. From the Tecolote Road Station, it is approximately a 21-minute walk to Mission Bay Park.
Discover more about Mission Bay Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welcome to Mission Bay Park Sign
1.6 km
Discover San Diego's ultimate aquatic playground at Mission Bay Park, offering endless water sports, scenic bike paths, sandy beaches, and family-friendly attractions for an unforgettable experience.
Crown Point
2.0 km
Discover San Diego's outdoor paradise at Crown Point Park: a vibrant Mission Bay destination with sandy beaches, grassy lawns, water sports, and stunning bay views.
Bonita Cove
2.3 km
Discover Bonita Cove in San Diego's Mission Bay: a perfect blend of calm waters, sandy beaches, and recreational fun for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a relaxing escape.
Playa Pacifica Park
2.4 km
Explore Playa Pacifica Park, a serene escape in San Diego, blending scenic beauty with endless recreational possibilities along Mission Bay.
South Mission Beach, San Diego
2.5 km
Discover South Mission Beach, San Diego's vibrant coastal haven for sunbathing, beach volleyball, and unforgettable sunsets along the Pacific shoreline.
Dog Beach
2.5 km
Experience the joy of canine companionship at Dog Beach in San Diego, a scenic haven where dogs can run free and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Lifeguard Historical Landmark
2.6 km
Discover the Lifeguard Historical Landmark in Mission Beach, San Diego, a tribute to coastal safety and the heroes who protect our beaches.
Derby Dike
2.9 km
Discover the historic Derby Dike in Old Town San Diego, a landmark showcasing the rich heritage and architectural beauty of this vibrant city.
Serra Palm (Site)
2.9 km
Experience the historical essence of Serra Palm in Old Town San Diego, where California's rich legacy unfolds in a beautiful, serene setting.
Plaza De Las Armas
2.9 km
Discover the birthplace of California at Plaza de Las Armas in Old Town San Diego, where history comes alive through preserved architecture, vibrant culture, and authentic Mexican flavors.
La Casa de Machado y Stewart
2.9 km
Discover the historical significance of La Casa de Machado y Stewart in San Diego's Old Town, where California's rich heritage comes to life.
Mason Street Schoolhouse
2.9 km
Explore the Mason Street Schoolhouse, a captivating museum in Old Town San Diego that reveals California's educational history and charm.
Old Town - jail
2.9 km
Discover the Old Town Jail, a historic landmark in San Diego that reveals the intriguing stories of the 19th-century Californian justice system.
La Casa de Estudillo
3.0 km
Explore the rich history and architectural beauty of La Casa de Estudillo, a key landmark in San Diego's historic Old Town.
Ocean Beach Veteran's Plaza
3.0 km
Explore the Ocean Beach Veteran's Plaza, a serene historical landmark in San Diego that honors veterans while offering stunning ocean views and beach culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
SeaWorld San Diego
0.0 km
Explore the wonders of marine life and thrilling rides at SeaWorld San Diego, a top theme park for families and adventure seekers.
Skytower
0.2 km
Reach new heights at SeaWorld San Diego's SkyTower for panoramic views of the park, Mission Bay, and the stunning San Diego skyline.
Dolphin Point
0.2 km
Observe playful bottlenose dolphins up close at this interactive SeaWorld San Diego exhibit. A memorable experience for marine life enthusiasts of all ages.
Sunset Point Park
1.2 km
Discover scenic beauty at Sunset Point Park in San Diego's Mission Bay, perfect for picnics, recreation, and stunning sunset views.
Fiesta Island
1.3 km
Explore Fiesta Island in San Diego, a beautiful park featuring sandy beaches, recreational activities, and stunning views of Mission Bay.
Vacation Isle Park
1.4 km
Escape to Vacation Isle Park in Mission Bay for serene beaches, grassy fields, model boat races, and stunning San Diego views.
Ski Beach
1.5 km
Enjoy sun, sand, and water sports at Ski Beach in Mission Bay, San Diego – perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts!
Ski Beach Park
1.6 km
A family-friendly park in San Diego's Mission Bay, perfect for watersports, picnics, and bonfires with stunning bay views.
Dusty Rhodes Park
1.7 km
Ocean Beach's beloved Dusty Rhodes Park: Where dogs roam free, families play, and ocean views inspire.
Ventura Cove Park
1.8 km
A family-friendly beach on Mission Bay with calm waters, perfect for swimming, picnics, and stunning sunset views.
Mariner’s Point Park
1.8 km
Enjoy fishing, picnics, and scenic bay views at this accessible Mission Bay Park destination. Open daily, free parking, and family-friendly!
Mission Point Park
1.9 km
Discover bayside bliss at Mission Point Park: scenic picnics, water activities, and stunning San Diego sunsets on Mission Bay.
Tecolote Shores
2.0 km
A scenic bayside park in San Diego's Mission Bay, perfect for families, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.
Crown Point Beach
2.0 km
Relax on the sandy shores and enjoy calm waters at Crown Point Beach, a perfect family-friendly destination in San Diego's Mission Bay Park.
Crown Point Shores
2.4 km
Enjoy sun, sand, and recreation at Crown Point Shores, a beautiful bayfront park in San Diego's Mission Bay.
Essential places to dine
Dockside 1953
2.1 km
Experience exquisite seafood and Californian cuisine at Dockside 1953 in San Diego’s beautiful Mission Beach with stunning bay views.
OB Noodle House & Sake Bar
2.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Asia at OB Noodle House & Sake Bar in San Diego's Point Loma - where every dish tells a story.
Voltaire Beach House
2.3 km
Experience the flavors of San Diego at Voltaire Beach House - where fresh ingredients meet stunning ocean views.
Beach Bus Diner
2.4 km
Experience delectable coastal cuisine at Beach Bus Diner in San Diego's scenic Point Loma—where every meal feels like a beach vacation.
CEVICHES AND BEERS
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant taste of fresh seafood at Ceviches and Beers in Mission Beach – where every dish is crafted with love from the ocean's bounty.
Luigi's At The Beach
2.5 km
Savor delicious pizzas and more at Luigi's At The Beach in San Diego – where coastal charm meets culinary delight!
Draft South Mission
2.5 km
Experience beachfront dining at Draft South Mission – where American flavors meet sports excitement amidst stunning ocean views.
Cannonball
2.5 km
Experience culinary excellence at Cannonball in San Diego - where Asian Fusion meets breathtaking ocean views.
Coaster Saloon
2.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and sports culture at Coaster Saloon in San Diego's Mission Beach.
Beach House Tequila + Taqueria
2.6 km
Experience vibrant flavors at Beach House Tequila + Taqueria in San Diego's Mission Beach—where delicious tacos meet oceanfront views.
Kojack's Restaurant
2.6 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Kojack's Restaurant in San Diego – where Mediterranean flavors meet warm hospitality.
Baci Restaurant
2.6 km
Discover Baci Restaurant in San Diego: A fine dining experience blending Italian tradition with fresh seafood flavors.
Casa Guadalajara
2.8 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Casa Guadalajara in San Diego's historic Old Town - where every meal is a fiesta!
Barra Barra
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant taste of Mexico at Barra Barra in San Diego's historic Old Town - a must-visit for food lovers!
Casa de Reyes
2.9 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant culture at Casa de Reyes in San Diego's historic Old Town.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
San Diego's Largest Vintage and Antique Mall
1.6 km
Explore the largest vintage and antique mall in San Diego, where every corner holds a unique treasure waiting to be discovered.
Vervor Shop
2.2 km
Explore Vervor Shop in San Diego for unique handmade gifts, local art, and unforgettable treasures that capture the spirit of Southern California.
Willow
2.3 km
Explore Willow in Point Loma: Your destination for unique gifts, home goods, and exquisite jewelry in the heart of San Diego.
Beach Hi
2.5 km
Explore Beach Hi in Mission Beach, San Diego for unique souvenirs and gifts that celebrate your sunny California adventure.
Treasures by the Bay
2.5 km
Explore a fashion gem in Mission Beach, San Diego, where trendy clothing meets the charm of coastal shopping.
San Diego Trading Company
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at San Diego Trading Company, a must-visit gift shop in Mission Beach for every tourist.
Gift Shop
2.6 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Mission Beach, offering unique souvenirs and local crafts that embody the spirit of San Diego's coastal charm.
Beach Trader
2.6 km
Explore Beach Trader in Mission Beach for trendy beachwear and casual apparel, capturing the essence of Southern California's coastal lifestyle.
Mission Beach Resort Wear
2.6 km
Discover stylish beachwear and accessories at Mission Beach Resort Wear, your go-to shop for coastal fashion in San Diego's vibrant Mission Beach.
Bazaar Del Mundo
2.8 km
Discover authentic California crafts and unique souvenirs at Bazaar Del Mundo, a vibrant gift shop in San Diego's historic Old Town.
Old Town Gifts
2.9 km
Explore Old Town Gifts in San Diego for unique souvenirs and local artisan treasures that embody California's rich culture.
Tienda de Reyes
2.9 km
Explore Tienda de Reyes: A Treasure Trove of Local Crafts, Clothing, and Souvenirs in San Diego's Historic Old Town.
Newport Avenue Antiques
2.9 km
Explore Newport Avenue Antiques in San Diego for a unique shopping experience filled with vintage treasures and historical charm.
Vignettes-Antiques & Collectibles
2.9 km
Explore a captivating array of antiques and collectibles at Vignettes in San Diego, where every item has a story to tell.
Ocean Beach Antique Mall
2.9 km
Unearth unique treasures in San Diego's charming Ocean Beach Antique Mall, where nostalgia meets eclectic vintage finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lucy's Tavern
2.3 km
Discover Lucy's Tavern, a lively cocktail bar in San Diego's Point Loma, offering creative drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Northside Tavern
2.3 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Northside Tavern with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and live music in Point Loma, San Diego.
The Tilted Stick Bar & Grill
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill offerings at The Tilted Stick Bar & Grill, a favorite among locals and tourists alike in San Diego.
Beachcomber
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant beach culture at Beachcomber, a top bar in Mission Beach, San Diego, offering delicious cocktails and stunning ocean views.
The Pennant Bar
2.3 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of The Pennant Bar, where delicious grilled dishes meet sports entertainment in Mission Beach.
Sidecar Bar
2.4 km
Discover Sidecar Bar in San Diego – a lively spot with craft beers, cocktails, and a fun atmosphere perfect for a night out.
Sandbar Sports Grill
2.6 km
Experience the ultimate blend of sports, food, and fun at Sandbar Sports Grill in Mission Beach, San Diego.
Rose's Tasting Room
2.9 km
Experience a delightful blend of local wines and craft beers in a warm, inviting atmosphere at Rose's Tasting Room in San Diego's Old Town.
Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge
3.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of San Diego at Pacific Shores Cocktail Lounge, where cocktails meet charm in a cozy setting.
Sunshine Company Saloon
3.0 km
Discover the lively Sunshine Company Saloon in Point Loma, San Diego, a perfect blend of local charm, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious drinks.
Tony's Martini Bar
3.0 km
Experience the best martinis and vibrant nightlife at Tony's Martini Bar in Point Loma, San Diego – a cocktail lover's paradise.
Cheswick's West
3.0 km
Experience California's laid-back beach culture at Cheswick's West, a cozy bar offering stunning ocean views and refreshing drinks.
Old Town Saloon
3.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Old Town Saloon, a historic dive bar in San Diego with affordable drinks and a welcoming vibe.
Guava Beach Bar & Grill
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant Guava Beach Bar & Grill in Mission Beach, where delicious food and stunning ocean views create the perfect seaside experience.
BW Hacienda Hotel Old Town
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant history and culture of San Diego at BW Hacienda Hotel Old Town, your gateway to unforgettable experiences.
